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70p / 15 January 2022
SALVATIONIST ONE IN CHRIST WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY
A HAPPY RETURN TO SUNDERLAND CITADEL PAGES 12 AND 13
QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA
DOCTORS URGE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT TO REJECT ASSISTED SUICIDE LEGISLATION
NEARLY HALF A MILLION IN GRANTS BRINGS CHRISTMAS CHEER TO DOZENS OF CHURCHES
Dozens of junior doctors have written to MSPs urging them to vote against legalising assisted suicide in Scotland… The legalisation of assisted suicide has been proposed in a bill introduced to the Scottish parliament by Lib Dem MSP Liam MacArthur. Christopher Marshall, a 24-yearold palliative care worker … and Ed Tulloch, a 30-year-old trainee GP … have co-authored a letter of opposition that has been signed by [more than] 30 other junior medics. ‘As junior doctors in Scotland, we oppose any form of legislation which seeks to promote assisted suicide and will not participate if it becomes legal,’ they say… ‘Legalising assisted suicide will undoubtedly place untold pressure on people who are vulnerable, disabled or elderly to end their lives prematurely. Some may even feel it is their “duty to die”. These are the people we have gone to such lengths to protect and support during the pandemic,’ the doctors said. ‘The implication of assisting suicide is that some human life is not worth continuing and would be better cut short. This is a dangerous precedent’… The doctors are backed by the Care Not Killing Alliance, which is spearheading opposition to the bill, and Our Duty of Care, a group of medical professionals who have spoken out against the bill.
Grants totalling £473,000 for urgent building works arrived in time for Christmas for 47 churches across the UK. The National Churches Trust (NCT), in partnership with the Great Universal Stores family charity, the Wolfson Foundation, is behind the … funding package. This [was] the third and final grants round from the NCT and Wolfson in 2021. During the year the two funders gave churches 273 grants totalling £3.67 million. NCT vice president, the broadcaster Huw Edwards, said the latest funding ‘is a much-needed lifeline for churches and chapels, many of which are struggling to raise money to keep their buildings in good repair. ‘The grants will safeguard unique local heritage and provide a real boost to the people who look after and use churches and chapels for worship and for many important community activities.’
The failure of wealthy nations to vaccinate the world is a ‘stain on our soul’ according to the former prime minister Gordon Brown. He’s been a vocal advocate of the need for countries with plentiful supplies of vaccines to donate them to poorer nations who are struggling to protect their populations from coronavirus. The UK, European Union and the US have received more vaccine doses in the [past] six weeks than African countries [did] in the whole of 2021… Fionna Smyth is head of global policy and advocacy at Christian Aid. She tells Premier she agrees... ‘The world’s failure to vaccinate the world is a great moral failure. In the UK, everyone has had access to not one, not two, but three vaccines each. Yet, at the same time, 90 per cent of African health workers remain unprotected.’
Christian Today
Premier
A 2,700-year-old ancient Judean seal impression, which probably belonged to the prophet Isaiah, has been discovered just 50 metres south of Jerusalem’s Temple Mount. It is, therefore, potentially the first archaeological confirmation of Isaiah’s existence and status. Until now, the only early ancient references to him have been in the Bible… The clay seal impression was found just two metres away from a second seal impression – issued by none other than the prophet’s royal colleague, the ruler of Judah, King Hezekiah… It is known that Isaiah was a court prophet, active and conceivably resident for much of the time in Hezekiah’s palace. He acted as a close political adviser.
Christian Today
Church Times
SALVATIONIST
ANCIENT SEAL DISCOVERED NEAR TEMPLE MOUNT IN JERUSALEM MAY HAVE BELONGED TO THE PROPHET ISAIAH
salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist Issue No 1841
CONTACT US 020 7367 4890 (main) / 020 7367 4901 (editor) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts
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MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Simon Hope, Melita Day-Lewis, Major Margaret Bovey ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight, Louise Phillips PROOFREADER Chris Horne Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by CKN Print, Northampton. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory. ISSN 2516-5909.
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Salvationist 15 January 2022
CHRISTIAN AID BACKS FORMER PM GORDON BROWN WHO SAID OUR FAILURE TO PROVIDE VACCINES TO POORER NATIONS WAS A ‘STAIN ON OUR SOUL’
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FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Mal Davies TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN 0845 634 0101
UNITY IN ACTION
CONTENTS Quotes from the media
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News
IN 1910 the World Missionary Conference in Edinburgh saw 1,200 representatives of churches and missionary societies gather to discuss how to ‘advance the Kingdom of Christ’. It fostered a new sense of co-operation and goodwill and led to the formation of the World Council of Churches (WCC) in 1948. The WCC’s 1961 assembly adopted the goal of ‘full, visible unity’, which was followed in 1964 by a challenge from the British Council of Churches for ‘the inauguration of union’ in Britain by Easter Day 1980. Clearly, that did not happen! However, there have been other developments over the years, including the merger of several denominations to create the United Reformed Church and the Swanwick Declaration of 1987 in which churches in Britain and Ireland committed themselves to becoming ‘united in faith, communion, pastoral care and mission’. A century after the Edinburgh conference some were sensing a loss of ecumenical momentum. In 2010 Paul Avis, former general secretary of the Church of England’s Council for Christian Unity, wrote: ‘Inertia and apathy confront ecumenism on every side… A fresh vision is now clearly needed.’ Since then a fresh vision seems to have emerged, particularly with the shift in emphasis from global and national schemes to local unity in mission. With the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (18–25 January) in mind, this week’s Salvationist focuses on ways in which local unity, supported by regional and national co-operation, is expressed in action. Territorial Ecumenical Officer Major David Evans points out that, during the Covid-19 pandemic, corps have worked with other churches to serve their communities, sharing resources and avoiding duplication of their work. This was possible in many cases because churches were already committed to mission partnerships. Good examples of that in the North West Division are highlighted, including a county level covenant between denominations in Cumbria that supports and encourages local mission projects. In an interview Major Katrina Greetham speaks about the way Swanage Corps and other churches in the town have supported their community during the pandemic. This includes a helpline, a food bank and outdoor ‘thank-you’ services. She also gives an insight into the work of Churches Together in Dorset, which she chairs, and encourages Salvationists to get to know, learn from and work with other Christians. Sunderland Citadel is an example of a corps that got to know members of another church, an Independent Methodist congregation. When the church faced closure the corps moved in and some church members became adherents and soldiers. CSM Valerie Sinclair describes what happened and how, 40 years later, a couple who were members of the church before the merger recently visited the corps and saw its work as an answer to prayer. Godliness is the theme of the latest in our series of messages that William Booth sent to corps early in the 20th century. He said that godliness means more than following leaders of particular church traditions – the focus is on God and reflecting his nature. He wrote this three years before the 1910 Edinburgh conference, and the words still resonate today. If we are to achieve unity, the focus must always be on the Father who joins us together as brothers and sisters. And if that is to make an impact on the world, it needs to be seen in action.
4 to 8
Prayer matters
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Feature Better together... but how?
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by Major David Evans
Interview Partners in mission
10 and 11
Major Katrina Greetham talks to Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts
Feature God’s perfect plan
12 and 13
by CSM Valerie Sinclair
Stories of transformation Derek Harkness: Allowing God to take control
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by Major Rosemary Dawson
A word from William The gain of godliness Bible study Walk in the light
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16 and 17
by Captain Althea Bawden
Through the week with 16 and 17 Salvationist by Major Howard Webber
Reflection Give him the glory
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by Brian Colley
Reflection God be in my head
18
by Major John Waters
Review 19 Making Disciples for the Workplace reviewed by Major Donald Montgomery
Preview Borders and Belonging
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by Pádraig Ó Tuama and Glenn Jordan
New commitments
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Adverts
21 and 24
Announcements
22 and 23
FRONT-PAGE PICTURE David Hillas
From the editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts
SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated
Salvationist 15 January 2022
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NEWS
Editor's note: Some events reported took place before the current Covid-19 restrictions.
EMERGENCY AID
C CHRISTMAS
Army helps Afghan refugees USA WESTERN THE Southwest Division’s Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) helped to manage nearly 100 tons of donations given to support the US military’s Operation Allies Welcome. The EDS team was based at Holloman Air Force Base (HAFB) near Alamogordo, New Mexico. The Department of Defence, through US Northern Command, and in support of the Department of State and Department of Homeland Security, provided transportation, temporary housing, medical screening and general support for about 50,000 Afghan evacuees at secure locations. The EDS collaborated with Holloman Spouses Organisation and Task ForceHolloman to organise warehousing operations for donations and resources. Afghan evacuees arriving on the base were provided with individual bags containing clean clothing, shoes, hygiene items and more. During a four-week period the evacuees were provided with 32,802 clothing items, 11,853 infant supplies, 3,755 comfort/hygiene kits, 2,145 toys for children and 890 blankets. ‘Our goal was to make sure everyone had at least one extra set of clothes,’ said Captain Niki Woollin, incident commander of the warehouse effort. ‘There was an overwhelming response of gratitude from the evacuees.’ The Salvation Army also worked with Islamic Relief USA, a non-profit humanitarian and advocacy organisation, to have 1,500 prayer rugs shipped to the airbase. Afghan evacuees have also been supported by The Salvation Army in other locations. Centres across the USA collected clothes and other essential items for newly arrived refugees. – AR
SHEFFIELD CITADEL The corps hosted an in-person young people’s carol service, welcoming about 120 people through its doors, including some new faces. The interactive evening, primarily led by YPSM Joya Parker, featured carols, two songs from the youth worship group and the Nativity story. Table activities led by the corps YP team included a Christmas-themed quiz, Christmas brain teasers and decorating biscuits and baubles. The corps also held a toy service to help provide for children and families in need, and a wider carol service, which sold out. – JC
C CHRISTMAS FAKENHAM The corps took part in the town’s annual Christmas tree festival. The corps tree took centre stage, being placed above the font and telling the Christmas story. Thousands of people attended the event and £324 was raised for the Big Collection. – AA
ISLE OF WIGHT Three hundred and fifty food and toy parcels were delivered to families in need at Christmas. Money and food were donated by the community while The Entertainer toy shop and Isle of Wight Radio donated toys. Pictured are corps officers Captains Lillian and Rodney Bean with volunteer Nicki Phillips. – IR
EMERGENCY AID UK Children of Afghan families arriving at Heathrow airport were provided with toys sourced from Staines Corps by airport chaplains Majors Christine and Stephen Perkins. Northampton Corps set up a distribution hub for 155 Afghan refugees who had been settled in the area and other corps are assisting evacuees who have been housed locally. – AR 4
Salvationist 15 January 2022
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BRIDGWATER A team from Bylor, one of Hinkley Point C power station’s contractors, donated to the Christmas appeal. Corps officers Lieutenants Heather and Jonathan Culshaw said they were blessed by the gesture. The team collected toys and gifts from more than 5,000 on-site staff members and donated 75 large gift bags, 250 crackers, 75 yule logs, 75 rolls of wrapping paper and 100 rolls of Sellotape. They also offered to deliver some of the parcels in the firm’s minibuses. These donations, plus others from the community, helped more than 175 families and 380 children. – TG
C CHRISTMAS
NEWCASTLE CITY TEMPLE Nineteen-year-old student Neve Ashby donated £250 worth of gifts to the corps Christmas present appeal. She saved money she received for Christmas and birthday presents, and for doing odd jobs for family members, to buy gifts for families in need. Neve delivered them to corps officer Major Liz Hancock, who was delighted as the corps had referrals for more than 350 children. Neve said: ‘It tore me apart to think of families not being able to afford gifts. I knew The Salvation Army would distribute the presents in the best way, to those who need them.’ – HW
50,000
Afghan refugees supported SEE PAGE 4
75
yule logs donated towards Christmas Appeal SEE PAGE 5
BRISTON The corps enjoyed an afternoon of carols, coffee and cake. Rita Wright gave a reading and Brenda Bullock presented her own written piece, Daisy the Cow. Singing Group Leader Ian Gallon sang ‘A Starry Night’. Stephen Lane, who recently transferred to the corps, sang the first verse of ‘Away in a Manger’. He travelled from his home in Bedford to attend with his three carers, who all enjoyed the afternoon. Later that evening, the singing group participated in a service at the parish church. – MR
350
referrals for children in need SEE PAGE 5
CROYDON CITADEL The band played carols around the streets of a small estate in Earlswood, where up to 80 residents joined in joyful singing. There were trios and solos, dancing in the streets and ringing of bells to proclaim the Christmas message. The residents were generous in their giving: the evening raised £673 for The Salvation Army. – MP
£530
raised for British Heart Foundation SEE PAGE 7
FELIXSTOWE For many years the songsters and band have shared songs, readings and carols at St Mary parish church, Trimley. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the event was moved to the corps hall, where members of St Mary and other churches joined in an evening of worship. As well as accompanying the carols the band presented ‘The Spirit of Christmas’ and ‘Christmas Swing’, while the songsters brought ‘Christ Has Come’ and ‘Gift of God’. Readings were shared by members of the church and corps officer Major David Lennox gave a Christmas message. – DA
C CHRISTMAS
Salvationist 15 January 2022
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NEWS
CHRISTMAS
MEETING DRIFFIELD Divisional leaders Majors Raelton and Lynn Gibbs led a retirement meeting for corps officer Major Lois Town, who completed more than 32 years of faithful service. The divisional leaders presented Major Lois with a retirement certificate and she responded with the lyrics ‘my very steps are planned’ from the song ‘God’s Love to Me Is Wonderful’, as these words were given to her when she entered the training college in the Servants of God session. The meeting was attended by friends of the corps and family members. – LG
PRESTONPANS Children from 1st Prestonpans Brownies, Rainbows and the After School Club presented The Star of Bethlehem Nativity play to proud parents and friends. Membership of the clubs dropped during the Covid-19 pandemic, with most of the brownies and rainbows joining during the term. The Rainbows unit was about to close until it was brought under the leadership of Lindsey Black, daughter of Brownie leader Alison Black. – ST
TWICKENHAM The corps hosted Carols in the Car Park, with more than 60 people joining together to enjoy carol singing, refreshments, a fire pit, marshmallows, mince pies and an opportunity to be with others and share the Christmas message as the band played carols. – EW
C CHRISTMAS WELWYN GARDEN CITY The corps was grateful for the generosity of local businesses, which donated gifts for the Christmas appeal. This helped support families in need at a time when people are facing rising living costs. Corps officer Major Diane Watson is pictured receiving gifts from Natalie and Adam, who are part of the Azets Hertford management team. – DW TEDDINGTON Corps officer Lieutenant Emily Watson was interviewed by local station Radio Jackie about the message that The Salvation Army wanted to share with people at Christmas. She spoke about rejoicing in the knowledge that Jesus came to live and love among us. – EW 6
Salvationist 15 January 2022
Teddington Band play carols in Kingston town centre
CHRISTMAS
WELLING The toddler group members embraced their creative sides to make Advent crowns, Christmas cards and tree decorations. Each activity allowed volunteers to explain the story of the Nativity to the children and adults. The cards, decorations and crowns took centre stage in many families’ Christmas displays. – KS
CHRISTMAS
Risca Bandmaster Adrian Browning and guest soloist Kelly Hastings prepare for the band to lead an outdoor carol service at Llancaiach Fawr Manor KNOTTINGLEY Family and friends of corps folk enjoyed the corps carol service, many of them attending the Army for the first time. During the service, the Christmas story was dramatised. Pictured is an ‘angel’ who escaped from Heaven to avoid harpists practising for Christmas Day and investigated presents left in front of the manger. – MT
REGENT HALL Supported by John Lewis store chaplain Major Ali Stone, Regent Hall Songsters sang carols to shoppers on the last Saturday before Christmas Day. Above the atrium, partners and customers stood and sang along and even gave a round of applause. People commented that ‘it had made them feel happy at a time when things can seem so uncertain’. – AS
CHRISTMAS
BELLSHILL The band held its annual Music for a Christmas Evening concert, which was also live-streamed. A varied programme of seasonal favourites and a new repertoire was presented to a socially distanced congregation, who joined in singing carols. Items included ‘Christmas Presence’, ‘Jingle Bells’, ‘Star of Wonder’, ‘Carol of the Bells’ and ‘A Christmas Finale’. Soloists Marjory Watson (vocal), Lynn Shanks (flugelhorn), Alex Ramsay (cornet) and YP Band Leader Chris Shanks (euphonium) presented, respectively, ‘Emmanuel’, ‘O Little Town’, ‘Away in a Manger’, ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas’ and ‘In Gardens of Peace’. The original fundraising focus for the event was to purchase a defibrillator for the corps but, after one was donated the week before the concert, the £530 raised was given to the British Heart Foundation. – MS
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Briston Corps featured two trees at the village Christmas tree festival held in the parish church, representing the food bank (pictured) and the Friday Friends dementia group HAMILTON The corps welcomed social workers who collected gifts for children in need in South Lanarkshire. Toys were donated in response to the Christmas toy appeal, which was run in partnership with the Hamilton Advertiser. – WL Salvationist 15 January 2022
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NEWS
C CHRISTMAS BEING TOGETHER, LIVING IN GOD’S COVENANT
by Secretary for Spiritual Life Development Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts
SHOEBURYNESS Vulnerable children had something to open on Christmas morning thanks to the generosity of TikTok stars The Smithy family. The family, who found fame during the first Covid-19 lockdown and have more than three million followers, delivered thousands of pounds’ worth of presents to Shoeburyness, Welling and Bexleyheath Corps, as well as to other groups in Kent and Essex. Nick Smith explained: ‘The Salvation Army is a gateway to helping many other areas through one place and that’s why we do so much for them.’ – AR
SATURDAY 15 JANUARY Being together means sharing fellowship with all kinds of people. The Salvation Army aims to be an inclusive church where everyone finds welcome and can develop their relationship with God. Pray for those who have not found the welcome they expected. May we continue to pray, work and plan for a Salvation Army where everyone is truly welcomed and affirmed. SUNDAY 16 JANUARY Major Joy Webb wrote: ‘Love is a place where you are always welcome,/ Love is an open hand stretched out to care,/ Love is of God and where his name is honoured/ Love is there.’ As we embrace a new season let us reaffirm our desire to love God and love others.
NORTH LONDON
by Divisional Prayer Co-ordinator Major Meshiel Brown (Poplar) MONDAY 17 JANUARY North London is a diverse area, so we focus this week on diversity and inclusion. In John 4:1–27, Jesus talks with a Samaritan woman at a well. ‘Will you give me a drink?’ (v7), he chooses to ask her. Who would Jesus want us, or you, to include?
KILMARNOCK Corps folks and band members joined others from the Fellowship of Kilmarnock Churches for an open-air carol concert in the town centre. The band went on to play carols outside a supermarket, reminding shoppers of the reason for the season. – EF
TUESDAY 18 JANUARY The woman replies: ‘You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?’ (v9). What might it be like to show love to those who think we, or you, don’t care? WEDNESDAY 19 JANUARY ‘Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst’ (v14). Jesus includes the ‘whoever’, but who are we, or you, missing out? Ask Jesus to show you the ‘whoever’. THURSDAY 20 JANUARY ‘You Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem’ (v20). Do we, or you, think that some people just don’t belong and need to go elsewhere? Allow God to change those thoughts. FRIDAY 21 JANUARY ‘Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshippers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshippers the Father seeks’ (v23). Ponder those words. What is Jesus saying to us and you?
CIRENCESTER The Gap Sunday club prepared Christingles for the Christmas toy service to remind everyone of the significance of the Nativity story. Toys were donated from local churches, schools and businesses. – MG 8
Salvationist 15 January 2022
O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources
FEATURE I Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
Better together... but how?
S
ALVATION Army corps officers are appointed not just to a corps but also its community. By extension, every corps exists for the benefit of everyone in the area, including fellow Christians and people of other faiths. In his high priestly prayer of John 17:21, Christ prayed for his followers ‘that all of them may be one’ just as he and his Father were one. He went on to imply that our living out of that oneness should be obvious in our interactions with each other so ‘the world may believe’. The Amplified Bible, which brings out the full meaning of the original Greek, adds: ‘without any doubt’! The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (18–25 January) raises a challenge to all Salvationists as to just how committed we are to ecumenism – in effect, to Christ’s prayer. In 1987 the Army signed the Swanwick Declaration, a covenant with other mainstream denominations, which stated: ‘We commit ourselves to each other under God. Our earnest desire is to become more, fully in his own time, the one Church of Christ, united in faith, communion, pastoral care and mission. Such unity is the gift of God.’ This overt declaration of intent moved beyond just co-operation towards a progressive commitment. It has been amazing during the Covid-19 pandemic to hear of Christians serving their communities, working together to oil the wheels of community service and share resources without duplicating efforts. Corps across the territory have worked in partnership with other churches and revealed Christ’s love by assisting the responses of other faith communities. In 2017 Captains Melanie and Stephen Scoulding (Carlisle) were given additional appointments as denominational ecumenical officers (DEOs) in Cumbria. Their task was to aid the development of mission and project partnering in that mainly rural county, which has six Army corps. A covenant was signed between the
Anglican, Methodist and United Reformed churches, later joined by The Salvation Army. It has recently been renewed as a sign of increasing trust and commitment in missional and other initiatives. This partnership is monitored by companion churches (the Baptist Union of Great Britain and the Church of Scotland) and observer churches, including the Roman Catholic Church. Building on the hard work done by the denominations in this county, the new North West Division has added more DEOs: Major Gareth Dickens (Winsford) in Cheshire, Captain Tracy Collis (Morecambe) in Lancashire and Major Allister Versfeld (Strawberry Field) in Merseyside. Gareth says: ‘Serving on Churches Together in Cheshire, both on the working group of denominational ecumenical officers and representing The Salvation Army at the Church Leaders Group, is a tremendous privilege.’ Divisional Commander Major David Taylor still prioritises ‘presidents’ meetings, but in Cheshire and Lancashire Gareth and Tracy have tended to deputise, whereas Cumbria’s DEOs step in at other times. The divisional commander says it is especially good that he has DEOs who can deputise at presidents meetings, just as with other denominations who cover substantial geographical areas. Gareth is particularly thrilled that an adherent at Winsford – one of the Iranian asylum seekers whom some of the corps in Cheshire have been supporting – will read about the visit of the Magi from Matthew’s Gospel in Farsi at the county’s service for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, to be held at Chester Cathedral. As the material was prepared by the Council of Churches for the Middle East, it seems highly appropriate. In Merseyside, Allister reports: ‘Liverpool Stoneycroft Corps and Strawberry Field are entering into a partnership with Liverpool Citizens (Citizens UK), while The Salvation Army is involved within the Roma community
Picture: DAVID HILLAS
Major David Evans highlights examples of the Army’s ecumenical engagement
Swanwick Declaration plaque at The Hayes Conference Centre in Liverpool, working alongside volunteers from other denominations.’ Another excellent initiative in Lancashire emerged from an intentionally structured ecumenical approach, when churches united to take part in Lancashire Sings Christmas on BBC Radio Lancashire. It featured Christian friends, the DC and corps bands. The Bible calls us to fulfil Christ’s high priestly prayer, and the pandemic has revealed more than ever just how much we need each other. If we are seriously committed to doing things increasingly better together, what can you, your corps and your division do so that others will see Jesus in his body, the Church – without any doubt? O Find
out more about the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity and download resources at ctbi.org.uk
MAJOR EVANS IS TERRITORIAL ECUMENICAL OFFICER Salvationist 15 January 2022
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INTERVIEW
Partners in mission Major Katrina Greetham (Swanage) talks to Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts about her work with other churches
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Katrina hands over the Churches Together phone to Methodist minister the Rev Karen James
Katrina staffs the corps food bank with Lucy, a volunteer from another church
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Salvationist 15 January 2022
HE Week of Prayer for Christian Unity begins on 18 January. Marked annually around the world it is an opportunity to celebrate the oneness that Christians experience in the body of Christ and to pray that unity will be expressed more and more in fellowship, ministry and mission. While this week is important, Major Katrina Greetham sees Christian unity as a focus all year round. In addition to her and her husband, Major Jonathan, being corps officers at Swanage, Katrina is involved in ecumenical work in the town and has been chair of Churches Together in Dorset for the past 18 months. Her election as chair came after many years of ecumenical interest, which began with a childhood awareness of Christians from other churches. ‘I grew up next door to a Catholic family,’ she says. ‘They came to the Army when we were made soldiers and we went to their church when the children had their first communion. ‘That interest developed in my early years of officership when I started getting to know ministers from other denominations and realising that there’s an awful lot that unites us. I also began to see how churches could work together. Sometimes it was at small events, such as services for special occasions, and at other times large projects. For example, when we were the corps officers at Hull Icehouse we had the Lighthouse Project, which worked with the ladies of the night. It started with a previous officer and a woman from the corps walking around with a flask of coffee getting to know the girls and ended up becoming a huge ecumenical project that is still running today. With the involvement of other churches the project became something we could never have done by ourselves.’ Katrina and Jonathan were also involved ecumenically while serving with the Red Shield Services in Germany. ‘We were an integral part of the chaplaincy team,’ she recalls. ‘We led services, we were available when the soldiers were deployed and we were involved in all the training for that.
‘I was able to have great theological discussions with people from different denominations, yet we all worshipped together and took turns leading worship. There was something beautiful about garrison churches, in that denominations and ranks were left at the door. I can’t remember in five years asking anybody which denomination they belonged to. Everybody was just together.’ In her role as chair of Churches Together in Dorset, Katrina is able to see how churches work in partnership across the county. The group is known as an ‘intermediate body’, operating as part of Churches Together in England to support local groups. ‘We’re an executive committee that supports the work of Churches Together in Dorset and a paid county ecumenical officer who reports back to us,’ she explains. ‘During the Covid-19 pandemic we’ve held Zoom meetings with local Churches Together leaders in the county to talk about what they’re involved in and share good practice. ‘We also link up with denominational leaders in Dorset. Normally we would have a couple of leaders breakfasts each year. They have not been possible in the past 18 months, but we are planning one this spring when denominational leaders will be able to share any joys and concerns.’ Churches Together in Dorset supports all kinds of events. One was a service for people who had been bereaved by homicide. ‘Somebody had a passion to do it but needed support,’ Katrina says. ‘If people come to us and say they’d like to do something, but don’t know how or want support, then we can help.’ Katrina is also fully involved in her local group, which has been busy in the town over the past 18 months: ‘During the pandemic Churches Together in Swanage met every week over Zoom to see how we could best support our community. We decided to hold some services at the town’s new bandstand and invite people to come and say some thank-yous. A huge crowd gathered and people from different
churches interviewed counsellors, doctors and nurses. It was something for the community, something to say “the Church is here and we care”. ‘We also had a helpline during the pandemic. The number was published locally and a mobile phone was passed around from church to church, so there was somebody available 24/7.’ Katrina acknowledges that churches face challenges, especially as they adapt to a post-pandemic world, but she has seen them find strength in unity. ‘Church leaders from different denominations have openly shared their concerns,’ she elaborates. ‘Some are having to close churches quite rapidly. Some have a huge lack of ministers and leaders. Some are concerned about financial issues that the pandemic has highlighted. But there’s also a feeling that we’re all in it together. There’s been a real binding together over the past 18 months.’ Katrina is concerned that Salvationists are sometimes wary of getting involved
with other churches and is keen to break down any barriers. ‘The Salvation Army, by dint of who we are, can sometimes come across as very insular,’ she observes. ‘The Army has a unique position and I think our theology is sometimes misunderstood. There’s a bit of a fear of Salvationists mixing with others in case they get asked questions they don’t feel qualified to answer. But the body of Christ working together can only benefit the Kingdom of God.’ Swanage Corps is an example of that. It hosts a food bank where volunteers from different churches are involved in serving the community. Katrina would like to see more of that kind of engagement with other Christians. ‘I would say get involved, learn from one another,’ she encourages. ‘Talk to people in other churches, get to know them. The Army has a special ministry and other churches are also doing amazing things. We can work in partnership, so let’s be involved.’ Salvationist 15 January 2022
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FEATURE I Sunderland Citadel
God’s perfect plan Valerie Sinclair tells the tale of a spiritual home saved through prayer ‘For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for wellbeing, and not for calamity, in order to give you a future and a hope.’ (Jeremiah 29:11 International Standard Version)
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ANY years ago, a Christian lady said to me, ‘God does not make mistakes.’ She quoted Jeremiah 29:11. I can testify to this sentiment over many years, but once again have been reminded of his perfect plan and blessed by the way in which he revealed something of his divine purpose. Arriving at Sunderland Citadel hall for morning worship, the corps secretary and I came upon a family: Elizabeth and Ian Warren, with their daughter, son-inlaw and two grandchildren. It was a blessing we arrived at that moment, for the meeting times on the noticeboard had not been updated since the Covid-19 lockdowns. The Salvation Army took over the building in 1982 after a great deal of
thought and prayer by then corps officers Captains Alan and Linda Aggett. The previous corps hall on Lambton Street was a huge building, difficult to heat and costly to maintain. But most of all it was isolated in the town centre, away from residential areas. The proposed new hall – an Independent Methodist (IM) church on Cairo Street – was situated in the heart of the community with many residential houses and families. During the transition, the officers led a Sunday service at Cairo Street IM to aid the transition for those members of the Methodist congregation who might wish to then attend Salvation Army meetings. A few of the congregation chose to remain and became a valuable part of the corps family, some becoming adherents and soldiers. ‘With faithfulness and love he leads all who keep his covenant and obey his commands.’ (Psalm 25:10 Good News Bible)
Elizabeth and Ian Warren with Songster Diane Smith
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Elizabeth takes up the story: ‘As a young child I attended Sunday school at Cairo Street IM. It was an active, vibrant church and had a large Sunday school. Settled among the streets of Sunderland, the church became my second home. ‘I practically lived there as I grew up. Sunday school, evening service, Christian Endeavour and the yearly Sunday school anniversaries, Eisteddfod and Scripture examinations all kept me busy. There was the parade of witnesses on Good Friday when we marched into Sunderland with other Sunday schools for a joint service. This small chapel was indeed my spiritual home. ‘The IM Connexion in Sunderland decided to hold a youth weekend. The culmination was to be a televised Sunday morning worship service for ITV North East. I was asked if I would take part in various aspects of the service representing the young people of the IM Connexion. The worship leaders also included a famous group of musicians on a mission – the Joystrings. ‘This formed a bond between the IM Connexion and The Salvation Army, which was to bear fruit in future years. ‘In 1971 Ian and I were married at Cairo Street IM and, in 1973 and 1975, my children were baptised there. A move 30 miles away to Stockton-onTees meant that there were very few occasions to worship at the church, but my parents continued to attend. ‘The congregation grew smaller and, sadly, the decision was taken to close my spiritual home. This was in the late 1970s or early 1980s. The area
was changing as people living there prospered and bought bigger houses elsewhere. Many houses were sold to private landlords. Churches throughout the country were closing and becoming carpet warehouses, nightclubs or, even worse, being demolished for new roads. ‘The members of the church were sad but practical about the closure and decided to take it to the Lord in prayer. I remember quite clearly saying, “Please, Lord, let someone or some organisation come forward that will love this church and the community around it as much as I do. And please do not let it become a carpet warehouse!” ‘Imagine my joy when The Salvation Army came along, accepted the ageing congregation and set to work in a community that needed their compassion and skills. My parents continued to
worship at the hall until 1982, when they moved to live near us in Stockton-onTees. They loved their time with the Salvationists and were welcomed and loved in return. ‘In August 2021, Ian and I – accompanied by my daughter and her family – went back to where we had been married 50 years ago. I wanted to go to the evening meeting but, as we had grandchildren with us, Ian held out – he felt a morning meeting might be more child friendly. ‘We arrived too early and were about to turn away, thinking that the corps schedule was not yet back to normal. Just as we were ready to leave, two ladies appeared and told us that the meeting times had been changed and morning worship would be starting soon. God had surely intended that we would enjoy our special day – and reminded me that, sometimes, husbands make good decisions! ‘We shared worship with Salvationists who worship, care and do the work of the Lord in a community of people in need. We had the warmest of welcomes and, once again, I was back in my spiritual home. ‘The Lord works in mysterious ways and often the events of today are set out for a purpose to be fulfilled when the time is
right. He heard our prayers and, because the community surrounding the church was in need, he sent The Salvation Army to bear witness to his love.’ After 50 years, the Warrens returned to the building they were married in and confirmed that God’s plans for Sunderland Citadel, which began almost 40 years ago, were indeed perfect. The prayers for the corps moving from Lambton Street were not only from the Salvationists making the move, but from like-minded Christians who were fervently praying for their spiritual home to continue to be occupied by his people and for God’s Holy Spirit to remain in that place. Elizabeth found that there were a number of church members from her past that we knew. Songster Diane Smith, born in the area, attended Sunday school at Cairo Street IM before she and her brothers began attending the citadel on Lambton Street. Elizabeth and Diane enjoyed reminiscing about the wonderful saints who had faithfully served in the building blessed by two denominations since 1880. VALERIE IS CORPS SERGEANT-MAJOR, SUNDERLAND CITADEL
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FEATURE I Stories of transformation
Derek Harkness Allowing God to take control Major Rosemary Dawson continues a series in which she remembers some of the inspirational people she met while working on the War Cry
Derek (left) and crew patrol the Pool of London
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IFE-AND-DEATH experiences were almost a daily occurrence for Derek Harkness. During his 30 years of service with the Metropolitan Police he combatted street crime, public disorder, football hooliganism and sieges with the Special Patrol Group. ‘Long hours of overtime bought me a very nice house and a share in a yacht – and a huge overdraft!’ he said. ‘This put an intolerable strain on family life. I also spent way beyond my means and drank heavily. ‘My unit was ambushed and stoned by a large crowd of anti-National Front supporters during the 1979 Southall riots, in which New Zealand teacher Blair Peach was killed. This caused a huge public outcry. Seven officers, including myself, were accused of being involved with his death. ‘During the two-year court case my wife and I separated for a time, but we started again on the condition that I changed my ways.’ Transfer to the Marine Policing Unit in 1982 helped Derek get his life on a more even keel. The river police dealt with anything from drunkenness aboard pleasure boats to providing an armed marine response for HM Customs and Immigration. They also recovered an average of 50 bodies from the Thames each year. One harrowing incident had a lasting effect on Derek and his colleagues. On 20 August 1989, 51 young people died when a pleasure boat, the Marchioness, 14
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sank by Southwark Bridge. The police rescued another 80 people. ‘In the following days I had the grim task of recovering their bodies,’ Derek recalled. ‘Those youngsters had just been enjoying a lovely summer night out. It really made me question the purpose of life and what happens when we die. Nowadays police officers in major incidents automatically receive post-traumatic stress counselling, but there was no such thing then. ‘Working at the sharp end gave me a very cynical outlook on people in general and religion in particular. To me, God was just a Father Christmas-like figure. I couldn’t understand why God – if indeed he existed – could allow such bad things to happen. These questions kept coming up, and I badly needed answers.’ Answers came via an unexpected source. Derek’s 14-year-old daughter, Anne, had become a Christian and encouraged his wife to go to church. ‘I would never have admitted it, but I noticed a complete change in them and wanted some of the joy and contentment they had,’ he said. They persuaded Derek to attend a Christian Basics course with them at the vicarage. ‘I went, aiming to put the vicar right on a few things. He talked about the claims Jesus Christ made about himself in the Gospels – that he had conquered death and risen again, and that those who believe in him could be “born again”. ‘I’d often dealt with people claiming to be Jesus Christ or Napoleon. But it
seemed logical that Jesus was either a lunatic or who he said. I also wrestled with the idea of the Resurrection; in my experience, dead bodies just don’t get up and start walking about! I started looking at the historical evidence, and the more I read the more it seemed to be true. ‘It gradually dawned on me that just as no two police witnesses see the same thing in exactly the same way, so the Gospels were telling their version of events from different perspectives. They didn’t contradict each other, as I first thought. Christ was who he said he was! ‘One night I knelt in my bedroom and asked God to take control of my life. There wasn’t any clap of thunder, just an overwhelming sense of joy and peace that has never left me. The uncertainty and fear of death that I had carried around for years completely disappeared.’ Derek travelled around the UK telling his story through the organisation Christian Vision for Men. ‘I thought I knew everything about life until I found Christ,’ he said. ‘I urge people to take a fresh look at the evidence about him in the Bible. God has provided us with the liferaft of faith – but it’s our decision whether or not we climb aboard.’
MAJOR DAWSON LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN ST AUSTELL O Based
on an article published in the War Cry, 25 July 2009
A WORD FROM WILLIAM
The gain of godliness
Continuing a monthly series of messages that William Booth sent to corps to be read in Sunday meetings
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HIS is specially an age in which men are carried away with the desire for gain. Whatever else they do or leave undone, the cry of the multitude is, ‘Give me lands, houses, money or anything else of earthly value.’ The rage for money is taking hold of the hearts and passions of the poor as well as the rich. Indeed, you see this mammon worship occasionally breaking out even among Salvationists, and here and there you find soldiers who have been fooled by this passion and sometimes ruined by it. To all who want to make as much profit out of their lives as possible, I want to advertise what I believe to be the most profitable business in which they can engage. You can enter upon the business I recommend with or without capital, with or without skill, and even children can embark in it and do a good thing thereby. Paul is my authority for these bold assertions: ‘Godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come’ (1 Timothy 4:8 King James Version). Now, the first question asked with respect to this passage would be, ‘What is godliness?’ Well, I reply, it is more than following John Knox, John Wesley, the Pope of Rome, Martin Luther or General Booth. Godliness means ‘God-likeness’ or the religion of God. What does that mean? To begin with, there must be a possession of some
knowledge of God. That knowledge may not be extensive and very little goes a long way when the heart travels with it. For instance, we must believe in the existence of God and of his goodness, his willingness to forgive and to care for us in this world and in the world to come. Godliness includes the friendship of God. Do you realise that? Can you look up to the heavens and say, ‘Abba, Father, my Lord, my God’? Godliness must also include possession of the nature of God. When we say a man is human, we mean that he has a human nature; and when we say a man is godly, we mean that he has been born again by the Holy Spirit and has received something of the nature of God. Godliness supposes partnership in God’s business – he shares its burdens, pushes its claims, sorrows over its failures and rejoices in its success. Can you lay claim to this godliness? If so, you will find it a profitable enterprise. The apostle says it is profitable for this world and the world to come. Now the real worth of things, so far as this world goes, is their capacity to secure for us the necessaries or pleasures of life – to soften its sorrows or deliver us from its ills and to do the same for those around us. The value of money, houses, land, learning and everything else that belongs to this world is just that, and no more. If these things secure for us love, trust, light, wellbeing and life here and hereafter, they are of unspeakable worth. If they do not, we
are as well without them. Measure godliness by this standard and you will find it the most profitable thing for time and for eternity that this or any other world contains. Take the value of godliness in the present life. Many suppose that to be a saint and out-and-out Salvationist means poverty, the loss of friends and untold hardships. This is a great mistake. No doubt there are individual cases of suffering for Christ’s sake but, taken as a whole, I firmly believe that as the result of the honest, industrious character that godliness creates, the followers of Jesus Christ are better housed and fed, and clothed and comforted, than they would have been had they lived worldly, godless lives. Then, godliness brings spiritual blessings of supreme value. There is the conscious favour of our heavenly Father. What is that worth? There is the deliverance from the bondage of evil passions and appetites. What is the value of that freedom? There is the privilege of labouring with Christ for the salvation of men. Who can measure the worth of that honour? Then, there is the Comforter in sorrow, the friendship of God’s servants, the hope of a dying hour and in the world to come the ‘well done’ of the Master, the memory of a life well spent and the blessed employments and enjoyments of the celestial world. Are you in possession of this treasure? If so, your fortune is made, your home is on high. If you are not in possession of this blessing, seek it just now. Salvationist 15 January 2022
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BIBLE STUDY
Walk in the light Captain Althea Bawden reminds us that God’s love is light in a world immersed in darkness
1 JOHN 1:5 TO 2:6
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N winter months, on bright, crisp, cold days, when the sun is shining and the sky is blue, I love to go for a walk. Wrapped up warm, I enjoy the sun shining on God’s creation at this time of the year. We have evolved not only to love light but also need it. We see best in the light and have limited sight in darkness. Daily exposure to sunlight keeps us healthy. John writes in our study passage: ‘This is the message we have heard from him [Jesus] and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all’ (1:5). This reminds us of God’s purity, perfection and holiness. Praising God in Psalm 36, the psalmist declares: ‘You are the source of all life, and because of your light we
Through the week with Salvationist – a devotional thought for each day by Major Howard Webber
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see the light’ (v9 Good News Bible). Later, God’s light is revealed in Jesus, who describes himself as the ‘light of the world’ and claims that ‘whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life’ (John 8:12). Understanding that God is light and applying Jesus’ teaching, John writes in our study passage: ‘If we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin’ (1:7). QUESTION does it mean to ‘walk in the light’?
O What
John’s Gospel encourages us to walk in the light, so that our sin becomes visible: ‘Everyone who does evil hates
the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God’ (John 3:20 and 21). In our study passage, John revisits this idea: ‘If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth’ (1:6). QUESTIONS O Are you living in the light or in darkness? O Is God calling you out of your darkness? Reflect on the song ‘Out of My Darkness God Called Me’ (SASB 515). Great blessings and benefits are promised to the person who walks in the
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
How happy the one whose heart is set free,/ The people that can be joyful in thee;/ Their joy is to walk in the light of thy face,/ And still they are talking of Jesus’ grace. (SASB 886)
If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. (1 John 1:6 and 7)
I heard the voice of Jesus say:/ I am this dark world’s light;/ Look unto me, thy morn shall rise,/ And all thy day be bright./ I looked to Jesus and I found/ In him my star, my sun;/ And in that light of life I’ll walk/ Till travelling days are done. (SASB 424)
light. One of these is fellowship with God, as we learn to share and model his character: ‘If someone claims, “I know him well!” but doesn’t keep his commandments, he’s obviously a liar. His life doesn’t match his words. But the one who keeps God’s word is the person in whom we see God’s mature love. This is the only way to be sure we’re in God. Anyone who claims to be intimate with God ought to live the same kind of life Jesus lived’ (1 John 2:4–6 The Message). QUESTIONS what extent do you find it challenging to imitate God in your life? O What do you need to change to reflect God’s light in your life? O To
live in the light God gives: ‘Now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light’ (Ephesians 5:8 New King James Version). Christians are light in the sense that we share the character of Jesus who is light. Our love serves as light to a world immersed in darkness. As Jesus tells his disciples: ‘You are the light of the world… Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven’ (Matthew 5:14–16). John reminds us: ‘This is how we know we are in him: whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did’ (1 John 2:5 and 6).
O How can you encourage and thank those who support you in your walk with God?
QUESTIONS you walking as Jesus did in your community?
CAPTAIN BAWDEN IS CORPS OFFICER, DONCASTER
O Are
The apostle Paul encourages us to
Let us use words from a song by Graham Kendrick as our prayer: ‘Lord, I come to your awesome presence,/ From the shadows into your radiance;/ By the blood I may enter your brightness,/ Search me, try me, consume all my darkness./ Shine on me, shine on me’ (SASB 261).
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (Ephesians 4:1 and 2)
When we walk with the Lord/ In the light of his word,/ What a glory he sheds on our way;/ While we do his good will,/ He abides with us still/ And with all who will trust and obey. (SASB 690)
Be careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil … always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 5:15–20)
What can I bring to thee, fruit of today?/ Have I walked worthily in work and play,/ Lightened my brother’s load,/ Walking life’s toilsome road,/ New strength and love bestowed, Master, I pray? (SASB 677)
Prayer Guide my feet, Lord, lest I stumble and fall. Shine your light on my path that I may walk the road you have planned for me.
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REFLECTION REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI EC TION TI ON
RE R EFL FLECTI ECTI EC TION ON REFLECTION
Give him the glory
Major John Waters continues a series of reflections on classic prayers
Brian Colley (Clowne) continues a series of reflections on verses from Psalms The voice of the Lord is powerful (Psalm 29:4)
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OD is all powerful, and the psalmist asks us to give him the glory due to his name. He goes on to tell us how we can see the might of God in a thunderstorm. In descriptive, poetic language we have the start of the tempest: ‘The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord thunders over the mighty waters’ (v3). At the height of the storm, great trees are felled. Afterwards calm is restored. All this is controlled by a God who is able to give strength to his people. Today there is the ability to forecast and speak about such storms, but nobody can control them. Only Jesus has been able to do that – when his panicking disciples thought they were doomed in the boat, he brought calm once more to the sea of Galilee (see Mark 4:35–41). If we are able to see the power of God in a thunderstorm, then we can recognise the peace of God in the aftermath. We can also experience the power of God in our lives and his peace in our minds. The songwriter experienced God’s power and wrote: ‘I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,/ Thy power throughout the universe displayed’ (SASB 49). He also recognised the peace of God in nature and wrote in the next verse: ‘When through the woods and forest glades I wander/ And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees.’ We can experience both the power and the peace of God as we travel our Christian journey, so giving him the glory due to his name shouldn’t be too hard for us. 18
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God be in my head O
NE of the prayers I learnt at school is at least late medieval in origin and first written in France by an unknown author. It appeared in English in 1490 and was printed in a book of hours, which was a liturgy for those who wished for a monastic pattern of prayer. In 1558 it was included in a republished edition of the Sarum Primer, a collection of prayer and worship resources that was developed at Salisbury Cathedral and used throughout Britain up to the 16th-century Reformation. While essentially a prayer, it is also a song in that it has been set to music, most popularly by H Walford Davies and more recently by John Rutter. In the Army songbook the Walford melody, ‘God Be in My Head’, is one of three suggestions, with ‘Esher’ and, one I especially like, ‘Invocation’. God be in my head, And in my understanding; God be in my eyes, And in my looking; God be in my mouth, And in my speaking; God be in my heart, And in my thinking; God be at my end, And at my departing. (SASB 1026) The idea that all our being and expression may be subjected to our sense of the divine presence is thoroughly biblical and is well described
in Jesus’ summary of the Old Testament commandments: ‘Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength… Love your neighbour as yourself’ (Mark 12:29 –31). Another Scripture passage suggested by the prayer follows a discussion between Jesus and some Pharisees and teachers who question him on the disciples’ neglect of ritual cleansing. Jesus replies to their criticism: ‘What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them… For out of the heart come evil thoughts... These are what defile a person’ (Matthew 15:11–20). The prayer is, line by line, very challenging. Our outward behaviour, which impacts on our neighbour, is the product of an inward disposition. Paul talks of having ‘the same mindset as Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 2:5) and Jesus describes this experience as his abiding or remaining in us and we in him (see John 15:4 –7). If that is so, then God will also be in those outward expressions – our thinking, focused on God, will be reflected in our understanding and consequently in our looking and our speaking. O, that it will be so!
MAJOR WATERS LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN BIDDULPH MOOR
REVIEW
A biblical vision for work Major Donald Montgomery (Sale) reviews Making Disciples for the Workplace by Mark Greene
‘W
HO needs a biblical vision for work? Everyone,’ says Mark Greene. While attending a church service, one man realised that God was part of his work. Consequently, he felt relief, joy, peace and purpose. Greene’s book reminds us that it is the responsibility of the local church to affirm and encourage the various secular vocations, whether that be in ‘HR, coding or bricklaying’. He observes that the world of work is facing multiple crisis points in relation to the global pandemic. These include concern for unequal pay, opportunities for women and injustices faced by ethnic minority groups. Having identified these challenges in relation to discipling and encouraging people in the workplace, Greene outlines ‘three dial-moving perspectives’, which highlight the
encouraging possibility for active disciples. Through a broad selection of Scripture, he arrives at a framework entitled ‘the 6 Ms’, which supports a life e of abiding fruitfulness. Characteristically, he offers real-life examples of this in action and so demystifies the chorus that Salvationists ts have sung over multiple generations: ‘All my work is for the Master,/ He is all my heart’s desire;/ O that he may countt me faithful/ In the day that tries by fire!’ (SASB 672). In this short but compelling volume, other Scripture references demonstrate e God’s activity – as seen in Genesis chapters 1 and 2 – from the perspective of active work. These include the encouragement that comes from observing the God of order, provision, joy, beauty and, significantly, the reality that his work releases potential. Greene also provides guidance to those in local church leadership. He suggests that care be given to ensure that this doesn’t become a list for leaders to tick, but encourages the idea that whole-life mission – including in the workplace – is integrated into day-to-day church culture. He concludes: ‘My prayer is to help
churches see that discipling people for the workplace is achievable right now, without distorting their ministry, and that, when a church equips people for ministry in their ordinary contexts, the whole community benefits.’ I wholeheartedly recommend this book to everyone linked to the Army, whether engaged in active employment or a supportive role. Its wide circulation and consideration will enable ‘whole communities’ to grow and flourish as partners in God’s mission. Disciples for the Workplace is available from grovebooks.co.uk priced £3.95 (plus postage and packing)
O Making
PREVIEW
Borders and Belonging by Pádraig Ó Tuama and Glenn Jordan
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POET an and a theologian reflect on Testament story of Ruth, the Old T a tale tha that resonates in today’s world with its the themes of migration, the stranger, mixed cultures and religions, law and leadersh leadership, women in public life, kindness, genero generosity and fear. Ruth’s story sp speaks directly to many of the issues and deep differences that Brexit has e exposed and to the polarisation takin taking place in many societies. Pádra Pádraig Ó Tuama and Glenn Jordan bring the redemptive power of Ruth R Ru tth h tto o be bear on today’s seemingly iintractable in nttrrac acttable social socia and political divisions, reflecting on its cchallenges and how it
can help us be effective in the public square, amplify voices that are silenced and be communities of faith in our present day. Due to its immediacy and relevance, the material that inspired this book has been used with more than 6,000 people as a public theology initiative from Corrymeela, Ireland’s oldest peace and reconciliation centre. and Belonging is available from canterburypress.hymnsam.co.uk priced £12.99 (plus postage and packing) or as an ebook (ePUB file format) for the same price
O Borders
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NEW COMMITMENTS Editor’s note In-person meetings were held before the current Covid-19 restrictions and in accordance with Army safety guidance at the time.
DEREHAM Corps officer Major Diana Bennetts enrolled Jessica as a junior soldier. She follows in the footsteps of the rest of her family, all of whom attend the corps. – DB
DUNSTABLE Laurie began attending worship with his grandmother in 2021. At a recent enrolment, Laurie said that God had spoken to him in the meeting about his own commitment. He asked for, and entered enthusiastically into, preparation lessons to become a junior soldier under the guidance of Adherents Secretary Sue Leadbeater. Laurie was enrolled by corps officer Major Steve Brevitt and supported by the whole corps family. He has witnessed to family and friends about his Christian experience and intends to be as involved in the corps as possible in order to serve Jesus. Pictured with Laurie are Sue Leadbeater, his mother, Catherine, his grandmother, Sue, and Major Steve. – SL
GRAYS As part of the 137th corps anniversary celebrations, Ambar Polley was enrolled as a soldier by corps leader Territorial Envoy Heather Sheldon. – HS
LISKEARD Claire Dingle was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Captain Julian Short. Claire started attending the corps two years ago with her husband and joined the corps community band programme. Claire was already a committed Christian and said that she wanted to serve the Lord through The Salvation Army. – VS 20
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HIGH WYCOMBE Merren was enrolled as a junior soldier by corps officer Major Jo Thompson. Merren gave the Bible reading during the meeting. – JT
ADVERTS SOUTHEND CITADEL Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 March
Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2022
visit of the
INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS Please note these dates, further information to follow
We Saw His Star in the East…
Save The Date Friday 15 – Sunday 17 July 2022 International Convention Centre Birmingham Gwelsom ei seren ef ar ei chyfodiad / Chonaiceamar a réalta ag éirí... Chunnaic sinne a rionnag anns an àird an ear
18-25 January
Commissioning, Congress and Symphony Sounds
FWEL RUJ XN ZHHNRISUD\HU
The materials for this year’s Week of Prayer have been prepared by the churches of the Middle East. Download a range of resources including daily reflections in English, bilingual Welsh/English, Irish and Scots Gaelic from ctbi.org.uk/weekofprayer.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTED Effective 13 December 2021 O TE Julia Attwood, Associate Officer, Saffron Walden Effective 6 January O TE Andrea Hopkins, Shrewsbury O TE Emma Scott, Associate Officer, Forest of Dean Effective 1 February O Captain William Tidball, Chaplain, Devonport House (pro tem) O Captain Susan Tidball, Programme Support Officer (pro tem), Devon and Cornwall DHQ Effective 17 February O Major Kay Cullingworth, York O Captain Gary Lacey, Territorial Prayer Network Support Officer O Captain Vicky Owen, Worksop O TE Pam Ripper, Staveley O TE Alice and Paul Swain, Macclesfield AWARDED Chris Hickford, Raynes Park, appointed MBE O Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant, THQ, appointed MBE O Kim Rogers, Oldham Fitton Hill, awarded the British Empire Medal O Russell Rook, Raynes Park, appointed OBE O Phil Wall, Raynes Park, appointed MBE O Wendy Wall, Raynes Park, appointed MBE O Julius Wolff-Ingham, THQ, appointed OBE O
WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond O Majors Eunice and Terry Hooper (27 January) Emerald (55th) O Andria and Frank Taylor, Stapleford (31 December 2021)
RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Major Elizabeth Rose (80 on 24 January) O Colonel Iris Wylie (80 on 24 January) O Commissioner Alex Hughes (80 on 29 January) O Major Eric King (90 on 30 January) PROMOTED TO GLORY O Rtd BM Kenneth Farr, Hereford O Sue Harris, Basingstoke O SL Hazel Edwards, Tunbridge Wells O Jane Heathfield, Gravesend O Kate Hardwick, Enfield O Len Phillipson, Newcastle City Temple O Rtd BM Ron Joice, Romford, on 22 December O Tony Claire, Stapleford, on 23 December O Major Robert Campbell, from Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, on 24 December O Gwelf Smy, Ipswich Citadel, on 28 December O Major Raymond Cawkwell, from Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham, on 28 December O Captain Eileen Hobbins from Bronglais Hospital, Aberystwyth, on 28 December O Lieut-Colonel Elizabeth Hamilton from her home on 29 December O Major David Carrington-Moule from Ami Court care home, Deal, on 29 December BEREAVED O Bandsman Paul Farr, Ray Farr, both Hereford, and Pat Hudson, Norwich Mile Cross, of their father Rtd BM Kenneth Farr O Barry Edwards, Tunbridge Wells, of his wife SL Hazel Edwards, Nathan Edwards and Jonathan Edwards of
ENGAGEMENTS THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM O USA Leadership Summit, Fri 14 Jan – Thu 20 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL O Swanwick (prayer gathering), Fri 21 Jan – Sun 23 O Annual territorial envoy seminar, Fri 28 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL PAUL MAIN) AND COLONEL JENINE MAIN O Harpenden, Sun 16 Jan
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Salvationist 15 January 2022
their mother, Anne Martin, Southend Citadel, of her daughter, Alan Martin, Staines, Phillip Martin, Southend Citadel, and Mark Martin of their sister O Brian Heathfield, Gravesend, of his wife Jane Heathfield O Lloyd Hardwick, Enfield, of his wife Kate Hardwick, Thomas Hardwick and Alice Hardwick, both Enfield, of their mother, Madeliene Lloyd, Hadleigh Temple, of her daughter, SL Siobhan Fraser, Leigh-on-Sea, and Gillian Nurrhaem of their sister O Bernice Phillipson, Newcastle City Temple, of her husband Len Phillipson, Darren Phillipson, Suzanne Wilson, Tracy Phillipson and Carl Phillipson, all Newcastle City Temple, of their father O Claire Groombridge, Stanford-le-Hope, Adrian Joice, Hull Citadel, and Gareth Joice, Chelmsford, of their father Rtd BM Ron Joice, Ken Joice, Perth, Australia, of his brother O Major Christine Campbell of her husband Major Robert Campbell O Margaret Smy, Ipswich Citadel, of her husband Gwelf Smy O Major Jean Cawkwell of her husband Major Raymond Cawkwell, David Cawkwell, Boston, and Faith Rice, Sunderland Monkwearmouth, of their father O Major Raymond Hobbins of his wife Captain Eileen Hobbins OFFICIAL GAZETTE UKI Territory LONG SERVICE 30 years O Major Pam Cameron, Personnel Service, THQ 35 years O Major Elizabeth Sandison, Chaplain, The Pleasance Lifehouse, Edinburgh RETIREMENTS FROM ACTIVE SERVICE Effective 1 January O Major David Coates with Major Gillian Coates (née Baxter) out of Sunderland Millfield in 1985 and last appointment Mission Service, THQ O Major Michael Lloyd out of Woodhouse in 1995 and last appointment Divisional Support Officer, South East Division O Major Thomas Stirling out of Dundee Central in 1985 and last appointment WBC O Major Lois Town out of Maltby in 1984 and last appointment Driffield O Major Gordon Tucker out of Kirkcaldy
Sinclairtown in 2004 and last appointment Dundee and Chaplain, Dundee HSU ANTHONY COTTERILL Commissioner Territorial Commander
WHAT’S ON LET THERE BE PRAISE The South London Fellowship Band will feature on Faith FM’s monthly Salvation Army music programme at 7pm EDT on 23 January (12am UK time on 24 January). O Listen to the broadcast by visiting fortressradio.online on Sunday from 3pm and Thursday from 8pm, or catch up by visiting salvoaudio.com
Did you know Salvationist is online? WE UPDATE SALVATIONARMY.ORG. UK/PUBLICATIONS WEEKLY, GIVING YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO O Read through the latest issue from 3pm on Thursdays O Catch up on news you missed O Read the editor’s comment and our article of the week O View archived issues
Like our page at SalvationistOnline to keep up to date Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK
MGS works professionally providing
O COUNSELLING O THERAPY O MEDIATION MGS works with relationships and other life experiences MGS is confidential, experienced and free Contact Major Jorgen Booth and the MGS team Tel 07711 148538 or email mgscounselling@yahoo.com (Based in Reading – MGS works throughout the UK)
TRIBUTES PETER FISHER, BOLTON CITADEL BORN in Thorne, Doncaster, in 1929, Peter came to the Army aged 14 through his love of music. Originally from a Methodist background, he was enrolled as a soldier at Woodlands Corps in 1944. Peter married Enid Penno in 1954. In 1955 they entered the training college from Heckmondwike Corps as cadets of the Swordbearers session. Commissioned in 1956, they were appointed to Glossop Corps. Further appointments in the Manchester, London and South Yorkshire areas followed. Ill health meant that they reluctantly relinquished officership. They settled with their four children in Reading, soldiering at Reading West. Bereaved of Enid in 2000, Peter married Captain Phyllis Forsyth in 2005, moving to her home corps, Bolton Citadel. There, Peter found real joy teaching children to play instruments and reinstating the YP band. A true people person, Peter is greatly missed. Well done, servant of God! – PF MALCOLM DOVE, STAPLEFORD MALCOLM was born in Stapleford in 1941 to Salvationist parents. He was brought up in the corps, being a member of the YP and senior bands for a total of 72 years. He held the positions of YP band leader, band librarian, deputy bandmaster and bandmaster. Malcolm played soprano cornet for many years and featured as a soloist at many of the Easter celebrations at Nottingham Albert Hall. He was also a member of the East Midlands Divisional Fellowship Band, in which he played flugelhorn. Malcolm was of a quiet nature. He was very sincere in everything he did for the Lord. He leaves a wife, Joyce, three children and four grandchildren. – FT
THOMAS SAUNDERS MBE, PLYMOUTH CONGRESS HALL BORN on 1 December 1943, Tom was a lifelong Salvationist, serving more than 60 years as a local officer at Barnstaple then Plymouth Congress Hall. Tom’s service exemplified his humble Christian faith. Appointed MBE for services to The Salvation Army and for his work as a civil servant, he always gave glory to God. Tom was an encourager and when asking how you were he gave time for the answer. As corps sergeant-major he led the corps for a number of years while it was without an officer. Tom’s life impacted many, and his legacy will long impact the ministry of The Salvation Army. – MB BECCA GREEN, EDINBURGH GORGIE BECCA transferred to Edinburgh Gorgie when her corps in Leith closed. Her association with The Salvation Army started when her father staggered out of the pub into an openair meeting. He followed the band to the hall, was gloriously converted and later became an officer. During her service at Leith, Becca held commissions as singing company leader, songster pianist, YPSM, corps secretary and pub boomer. She loved singing and sang duets with her late sister, Martha, often accompanied by her father on concertina. Becca’s interest was always in the welfare of young people and she was part of the process as they developed into fine Christians. She continued her faithful service at Edinburgh Gorgie as home league pianist, over-60 club member and food bank volunteer. Becca was a kind and generous Christian lady. – LC
Please note that soldiers’ and adherents’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk.
Salvationist 15 January 2022
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SUNDAY SU NDAY 20 MARCH MARCH with special guests
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