SALVATIONIST
Essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army // www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 17 November 2012 // No. 1373 // Price 60p
Pages 12 and 13
CONTENTS 3.
FROM THE EDITORINCHIEF
12. & 13.
4. PAPERS This week’s quotes from the papers 5. 9. NEWS UKT // Alrewas // Norwich Citadel // Chester-le-Street // Sherburn Hill // Swindon Citadel // Droitwich // Edinburgh Gorgie // Chelsea // Wellingborough // Anglia // Newcastle City Temple // ICO // IHQ // Italy and Greece Command // Chelmsford // Bristol Easton // Ipswich Citadel // Senghenydd // Derby Central // 10. & 11.
FOCUS ON THE ISS International Staff Songsters experience groundbreaking moments
5.
9.
12. & 13. PRISONS FEATURE Prisoners read The War Cry 14. & 15. One Army, many parts
FEATURE
16. BIBLE STUDY God’s amazing journey 17.
LETTERS
18. & 19. 20.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS NEW COMMITMENTS
21. 23. 24.
10. & 11.
ADVERTS THROUGH THE WEEK WITH SALVATIONIST
Salvationist 17 November 2012
14. & 15.
FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
LIGHT BULB MOMENTS ‘HE sees himself as an ordinary bloke with an extraordinary calling,’ noted one colleague of the man recently confirmed as the new Archbishop of Canterbury, the Right Rev Justin Welby. Taking up his post in 2013, Welby will become head of the Church of England and spiritual leader of the worldwide Anglican Communion. Just prior to the announcement that he would succeed Dr Rowan Williams, Welby spoke about his call to the priesthood, which came in the 1980s after a career as an oil executive. ‘Something in me just said “this is what you should be doing”,’ he explained. The soon-to-be archbishop is not the first person to know with certainty what God wants them to do. Take William Booth who, one night in 1865, after walking home through London’s East End with its physical and spiritual poverty, announced to his wife Catherine: ‘Darling, I have found my destiny.’ Or a young man named Timothy Ware from Bath, Somerset, who in 1952 was walking along Buckingham Palace Road in central London when he entered what he discovered to be an Orthodox church. Despite not understanding a single word of the Slavonic service, he said that as he left the church he had ‘a clear sense of conviction: this is where I belong; I have come home’. That young man went on to become Kallistos Ware, an English bishop in the Eastern Orthodox Church. In Strange Yet Familiar: My Journey To The Orthodox Church, the bishop writes: ‘Sometimes it happens... that before we have learnt anything in detail about a person, place or subject, we know with certainty: this is the person that I shall love, this is the place where I need to go, this is the subject that, above all others, I must spend my life exploring.’
Such light bulb moments – epiphanies – can happen at any age. Yet more often than not, life is not so clear-cut. Which of us hasn’t at one time or other pleaded with God to show us the way to go? Sometimes clarity comes only after years of experience or searching. Even Jesus had to work out what form his mission and ministry should take. Every week Salvationist with its features, Bible studies, reports and new commitments tells of people who are working out their calling through the Movement that is The Salvation Army. Everyone’s story is different. Some have light bulb moments, others a gradual realisation of God’s leading in their lives. Many of us may well have experienced both. Regardless of how, when and where we find our way, ordinary people like you and me have an extraordinary calling to live out. MAJOR LEANNE RUTHVEN
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The call of God is not just for a select few but for everyone. Whether I hear God’s call or not depends on the condition of my ears, and exactly what I hear depends upon my spiritual attitude
SALVATIONIST
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’’
(Oswald Chambers, ‘My Utmost For His Highest: Traditional Updated Edition’)
ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino – (tel) 020 7367 4881 ADVERTISING (tel) 020 7367 4883 (email) advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH (tel) 01933 445451 (fax) 01933 445415 (email) keith.jennings@sp-s.co.uk
The Salvation Army Trust is a registered charity. The charity number in England and Wales is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.
THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Linda Bond TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner André Cox EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Leanne Ruthven
A registered newspaper published weekly by The Salvation Army (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) on behalf of the General of The Salvation Army and printed by Wyndeham Grange, Southwick. © Linda Bond, General of The Salvation Army, 2012.
Salvationist 17 November 2012
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PAPERS
THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS NEW ARCHBISHOP TO POUR OIL ON TROUBLED WATERS
Justin Welby, the new Archbishop of Canterbury, will oversee the consecration of the first woman bishop as one of his earliest steps towards detoxifying the Church of England’s public image… [The appointment of the] Old Etonian former oil company executive, who has been a bishop for only a year… is expected to clinch a vote in favour of consecrating women bishops… His longstanding support for the move is expected to win over waverers.
VOLUNTEERING BUG IS OVER, SAYS CUF The craze for volunteering, sparked by the Olympic Games this summer, is over already, the Church Urban Fund (CUF) has warned… The charity said that the Olympic and Paralympic Games had given a huge but temporary boost to volunteering, but its own research has suggested that, now the Games were over, so was people’s volunteering spirit. Church Times
CHARITY COMMISSION DEFENDS CHURCH ROLE
The three churches that run the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem are in urgent talks with [a] local water company… over an unpaid 9 million shekel (£1.4m) water bill dating back over 15 years. The bank account of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, which runs the church with the Catholic and Armenian Orthodox Churches, has been frozen, meaning all their activities are blocked and they cannot pay salaries.
Press reports that the Charity Commission was seeking to remove the charitable status of churches have been denied by a spokesperson for the Commission. The reports were based on a letter to the Plymouth Brethren rejecting its application for charity status for one of its churches in Devon… According to a report in The Sunday Times Lord Carey has said he was ‘very concerned’ about this warning to Christian churches and called for a ‘very strong fight’. But a spokesperson for the Charity Commission [said] the letter… was simply pointing out the implications of the 2006 Charities Act, which removes the automatic presumption of public benefit from charities promoting education or religion or relieving poverty.
The Tablet
The Church of England Newspaper
The Times
HOLY SEPULCHRE CHURCH THREATENED
THIS WEEK’S WAR CRY AND KIDS ALIVE!
War Cry y THE
salvationarmy.org.uk/warcry
Salvationists contest Swiss Eurovision place
17 November 2012
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FIGHTING FOR HEARTS AND SOULS
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FOR THE
RECORD
CHARTS HIT 60TH BITHDAY
writes PHILIP HALCROW
AS Kool and the Gang sang: It’s a ‘Celebration’ (No 7, 1980). Or as Altered Images might have put it: ‘Happy Birthday’ (No 2, 1981). The Official Singles Chart is 60 years old. The first UK singles chart was published on 14 November 1952. At No 1 was Al Martino’s ‘Here in My Heart’. Last Sunday, the latest list
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Salvationist 17 November 2012
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NEWS You can help
Territorial leaders to dedicate Salvation Army memorial at the National Arboretum
UKT ON Monday 26 November ITV’s Daybreak will announce a new initiative with The Salvation Army and The Co-operative titled You Can Help. Some 50 corps and centres will be participating in the initiative, for which members of the public are encouraged to visit selected branches of Co-operative Food stores to buy a tin of food to donate in-store to the Army. Donated tins will be delivered by The Co-operative to the selected corps and centres to support The Salvation Army’s work providing food parcels and lunch club facilities for older people, families and homeless people. The campaign will run from Monday 26 to Friday 30 November 2012. For further information please contact the Media Office on 020 3657 7555 or email aysha.awan@ salvationarmy.org.uk – A. R.
Harvest gifts to Open Gate project CHESTER-LE-STREET MAJORS Bob and Barbara Davies led Sunday Harvest meetings. Major Bob Davies is Chair of the Trustees Management Board of Open Gate, a project that supports women who are released from prison, so corps folk decided to donate small household items to the display. These will be used by the charity to resettle women back into the community. Major Davies is pictured with corps officers Majors Michael and Nicola Barker. – G. C. Corps officer Major Dawn Evans receives a donation of £700 from entertainers The Jolly Boys at Sherburn Hill lunch club
ALREWAS THE Salvation Army has had a memorial installed at the National Arboretum. Territorial leaders Commissioners André and Silvia Cox will conduct a service of dedication at noon on Saturday 24 November. Salvationists and friends are encouraged to attend this significant event to mark The Salvation Army’s long involvement with personnel of the Armed Services. – A. R.
Young people organise chocolate collection NORWICH CITADEL ‘Daybreak’ presenters Aled Jones and Lorraine Kelly
THE young people organised a chocolate collection for the Harvest offering after learning about Fairtrade products. On Sunday Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts (IHQ) led the Harvest meeting, which was followed by a Fairtrade coffee and cake event that raised £180. The funds and the food donations will aid the Christmas Toys and Tins appeal which supports families in need. – B. C.
Songs and Harvest blessings SWINDON CITADEL LIEUT-COLONELS Peter and Sylvia Dalziel led Harvest weekend, starting with a supper. They presented a selection of songs with interesting commentary. On Sunday, their sermons brought blessing, inspiration and encouragement, as did their singing. The corps collected non-perishable food items for Swindon Food Bank. – K. S. Salvationist 17 November 2012
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NEWS
International College for Soldiers offers life-changing experiences ICO THE first-ever International College for Soldiers (ICS) took place in September in Sydenham, London. Twentyfive young adult delegates from across the worldwide Salvation Army gathered for an intensive two weeks of study, worship, evangelism and fun. The curriculum followed the framework of Knowing, Being and Doing. Knowing Delegates increased their biblical,
theological and historical knowledge through lectures from ICS staff and guests. Salvationist Dr Roger Green OF (USA Eastern) was the main guest lecturer, having been the visionary for this event. He is Professor and Chair of Biblical Studies and Christian Ministries at Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusetts. He taught on the Kingdom of God from the New Testament and also on the theology of Salvation Army co-founder Catherine Booth. Other lecturers included Commissioner Sue Swanson (World President of Women’s Ministries), who led delegates in a Bible study focused on David
International Congress is announced IHQ CHIEF of the Staff Commissioner Barry Swanson has announced that an International Congress will convene at the O2 Arena, London, from the 1 to 5 July 2015. The theme Boundless: The Whole World Redeeming is taken from Ephesians 3:8 – preach to the nations ‘the boundless riches of Christ’. From January 2013, the international website will add a link to the Congress web page where information about the event will constantly be added to and updated. Registration will begin approximately 18 months before the Congress. A planning committee will be appointed under the chairmanship of Commissioner William Cochrane (International Secretary to the Chief of the Staff ). The committee will give strong support to the coordinators, Lieut-Colonels Eddie and Kathy Hobgood. Questions and comments concerning this worldwide event should be emailed to IHQ-Congress@salvationarmy.org Salvationists and friends of the Army are invited to pray for the Congress and to plan to attend this 150th anniversary celebration of the founding of The Salvation Army. – A. R.
and Saul, and Colonel Richard Munn (ICO), who lectured on the Army’s holiness doctrine. Lieut-Colonel Eddie Hobgood (IHQ) presented a one-man show on Salvation Army pioneer Joe the Turk; Commissioner Lalkiamlova (IHQ) spoke to delegates about his groundbreaking work for The Salvation Army in his home state of Mizoram, India, and Phil Wall (UKT) challenged delegates in their roles as soldier-leaders. A significant time was spent with General Linda Bond, who spoke with clarity and conviction about her vision for a Holy Spirit-filled Army. The General reminded delegates to be Jesuscentred, biblically informed and to be on their knees as part of an Army at prayer. Being Delegates learnt about personal holiness and put into practice spiritual disciplines and new methods of prayer. Each day began with morning prayers, guided by the ICS staff. Delegates and staff also took part in the Worldwide Prayer Meeting on Thursdays, led by Colonel Janet Munn, praying through the International Vision Plan. New rhythms of prayer were taught throughout the week, including Praying the Bible, Circles of Influence and Listening Prayer. Delegates participated in small groups to discuss Dr Green’s Bible study on the Kingdom of God, allowing for
deeper understanding of the material and the opportunity to reflect on the daily experiences of the ICS. On Sunday delegates turned the building into a house of prayer, participating in a halfnight of individual and corporate prayer. For many, this was a spiritual highlight of the gathering. Delegates were challenged to share their ‘I’ll fight…’ promises and prayers flowing out of their shared covenant. Doing Delegates implemented their knowledge of social holiness with missional opportunities in Army centres and on the streets of London, led by Major Hannelise Tvedt (UKT). Delegates split into three groups and visited Stepney, Clapton and Notting Hill, where each group had opportunities of evangelism. The delegates visited IHQ and shared in dialogue with Chief of the Staff Commissioner Barry Swanson. The final Sunday morning was spent in worship at Regent Hall. Delegates joined in a march of witness followed by a short open-air meeting. The two weeks were demanding but eternally rewarding. The ICS brought life-changing experiences for the delegates who, empowered by the word of God, fostered wonderful relationships with fellow soldiers from around the world. – J. M./A. C.
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NEWS Return to the fellowship
Summer returns EDINBURGH GORGIE
CHELSEA
SUMMER briefly returned when the young people gathered for an indoor beach party. The event was supported by guest leader for the weekend Divisional Children’s Officer Kevin Avis. With the help of a collection of props, the children explored the story of the wise and foolish builders and the importance of building on a solid foundation. The teenagers stayed the night in the hall for a sleepover. On Sunday morning Kevin led a thought-provoking meeting considering the story of Abraham. This was followed by lunch at the hall. In the afternoon more than 50 people gathered for Messy Church and explored the parable of the sower. – L. C.
ONCE again people returned to worship on Back to Church Sunday, which was supported by Balham Band and Worship Group. An adherent member who stopped attending 18 months ago made a firm recommitment. – S. S. DROITWICH: West Midlands Divisional Fellowship Band presented a concert to raise funds for the corps. The programme included band soloists John Davoll (Eb bass) and Micah Parsons (euphonium), vocal group Voices Together and Sam Ellis (xylophone, Coventry City). – D. B.
Following the closure of their hall, Blaydon corps members are welcomed to the fellowship at Newcastle City Temple by Major
Rally alive with sounds of music ANGLIA THE division was alive with sounds of music as adult and family ministries members met for their annual rally in Norwich led by Divisional Commander Major David Jackson and Divisional Family Officer Major Joy Allchin. The newly re-formed divisional singers contributed ‘Walk In The Light’ and ‘Love Divine’. Fakenham home league members led prayers and incorporated songs prayerfully spoken. Cameo member Gloria Davis (Whatfield) and Lieutenant 6
Angela Wilson (Lowestoft Citadel) shared challenging and inspiring testimonies. Mags Stokes (Stowmarket) as ‘Flo’ presented humorous items. A highlight of the day was the presentation of the President’s Badge to Marilyn Green (Whatfield) in recognition of the five new members she introduced to Cameo. The divisional total for the Helping Hand Appeal was more than £11,777. Guest vocalists Lieut-Colonels Peter and Sylvia Dalziel (above) took listeners on a musical journey with their contributions. In his message, Lieut-Colonel Dalziel highlighted the proverb, ‘A good man deserves the favour of God’. – L. O.
Salvationist 17 November 2012
Antony Mugford
Children learn about Creation WELLINGBOROUGH SEVENTY young people attended the first Messy Church, themed The Creation. Some
attended as a result of leaflets being handed out during the Big Collection. The young people coloured in a map of the world and Territorial Lay Evangelists Mike and Jenny Clark led a period of worship, followed by a meal. – F. P.
NEWS Four-day tour includes thoughtful open-air ministry ITALY AND GREECE COMMAND OFFICER Commanding LieutColonel Daniel Naud and fellow Salvationists warmly greeted Staines Band as it arrived for a four-day tour of Italy. Well balanced and thoughtful open-air ministry at Piazza San Silvestro (see picture) and Piazza Immacolata included items ‘Celebration Praise’, ‘Festival Gallop’ and ‘Soli Deo Gloria’. The programmes retained the interest of the attentive crowds and were well received. In between ministry, the band appreciated visiting the Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica and the Colosseum. In Florence the band played at the Waldensian church in Piazza Cavour. Pieces included ‘To A God Like This’ and ‘Who Is He?’, followed by a vocal offering of ‘Pie Jesus’ by Cath Maughan and Sara Howe. – P. B.
Kids raise money for Kenya playground CHELMSFORD CORPS folk raised more than £3,000 to support Luke and Neve Bradbury in their mission to refurbish the playground at an Army children’s home in Nairobi. Luke and Neve live in Kenya East Territory with their distance-learning cadet parents, Heidie and Richard Bradbury. When the children arrived in the territory earlier this year, they discovered the playground was derelict. During a visit to the UK, corps officer Major Andrea Sawyer presented them with a cheque for £3,033. Many corps programmes helped raise this money, including the parent-and-toddler group, which held a toddlerathon. – C. B. 8
Soloists and new instruments enhance band anniversary WELLINGBOROUGH ON Saturday evening of the band’s 130th anniversary weekend, Leicester South Band presented a programme compèred by Lieut-Colonel Trevor Davis and featuring soloists Julian Potts (flugelhorn), Giles Coultas (soprano cornet), Bradley Turnbull (euphonium) and Andrew Piper (Eb bass). The band sang ‘When Jesus Looked O’er Galilee’ and the colonel brought a short scriptural presentation. Contributions by the band included ‘Rolling Along’ and a trombone ensemble ‘Lord, You Know That We Love You’. On Sunday morning corps officer Major Paul Church dedicated a set of new band instruments and commissioned Ben Pegg as a bandsman. Ben is pictured with Bandmaster Barry Clarke and Major Church. Band Sergeant David Clee brought the message and the band concluded with ‘I Know Thou Art Mine’. In the afternoon, father and son, David and James Pegg (soprano cornet and cornet) played the duet ‘Pie Jesu’ and YP Band Member Ashley Dear (trombone) played ‘The Old Rugged Cross’. – F. P.
Salvationist 17 November 2012
Band receives enthusiastic support NORWICH CITADEL MAJORS Richard and Sandra Welch (IHQ) led the band’s 130th anniversary to celebrate a ministry that was initiated by the Founder. Enthusiastic congregations supported the meetings, which included prayer for the band’s forthcoming visit to the Netherlands. During the weekend the band contributed ‘Celebrate And Sing’, ‘Fill The World With Glory’ and a cornet feature, ‘Alabanza’. Soloists included David Winch (tenor horn), who played ‘Variations On A Welsh Theme’, and Matthew Peek (cornet) with ‘Love Cannot Fail’. – B. C.
COMING SOON! Salvationist is going digital. The newspaper that is essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army will soon be available via an app. By downloading a free app onto an Apple or Android smartphone or tablet, our tech-savvy readers will be able to get all the benefits of Salvationist in a format that is truly mobile and modern.
NEWS
Band delights with colourful music weekend
Corps partakes in memorial SENGHENYDD
BRISTOL EASTON MARKING the 99th anniversary of the Universal Pit disaster in Senghenydd, black balloons were released for each miner who died in 1913. Corps officer Captain Paula Hubbard, who helped organise the event, is a member of the committee organising the centenary commemoration. Divisional Commander Major Derek Jones laid a wreath on behalf of The Salvation Army. – D. J.
EMBARKING on its first weekend away under the leadership of Bandmaster Gavin Lamplough, Birmingham Citadel Band treated the corps to a colourful music festival. Items included ‘The Kingdom Triumphant’ and ‘Vitae Aeternum’, interspersed with instrumental solos from Neil Blesset (tenor horn) ‘Greenhill’, Paul Sharman (trombone) ‘Somebody Prayed For Me’ and David Taylor (euphonium) ‘Harlequin’. Edward Dixon (tuba) played ‘The Bare Necessities’. On Sunday, the bandmaster challenged the congregation using the theme ‘One Life To Live’. The weekend was streamed live on the internet, the first occasion this has been done by the corps. – H. B.
Band celebrates 128 years’ service IPSWICH CITADEL CORPS folk welcomed Reading Central Band for a weekend celebrating Ipswich Citadel Band’s 128 years’ service to the community. The band challenged and delighted the audience with a varied festival of music. Items included ‘Rhapsody For Cornet And Band’ and ‘The Penitent’. The Sunday evening praise meeting featured all the sections. – D. S.
Musicians unite for proms concert DERBY CENTRAL IN a spectacular event at Derby Assembly Rooms the band joined with Derwent Brass, to present a concert. The two bands, led by Keith Leonard, music
director of Derwent Brass, played together for the first time in an event sponsored by businessman Mike Richardson. The varied programme replicated a brass version of the BBC Proms and included traditional items as well as Eric Ball’s ‘The Kingdom Triumphant’ and Dean Goffin’s
arrangement of Elgar’s ‘Nimrod’. Actor Bill Varnham, who regularly attends the corps, narrated throughout and as Soldier Bill portrayed the Great War. The programme featured soloists David Neville (cornet), Darren Willis and Adam Rutter (euphonium) and Wendy Jordan (vocal). – G. H.
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FOCUS ON THE ISS
INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS EXPERIENCE GROUNDBREAKING MOMENTS Kevin Fenton-Herring tells Salvationist about a tour of South America East and USA Eastern THIS summer, the International Staff Songsters completed a tour of Argentina and Uruguay and a visit to USA Eastern Territory to support the General at the Old Orchard Beach campaign – travelling more than sixteen thousand miles over two continents in ten days! The visit was months in the planning – a step of faith by Territorial Commander Colonel Susan McMillan and Music Director, Bandmaster Omar Perez (South America East). The Church community in Argentina and Uruguay has no tradition of selling tickets to concerts – so no one knew how many people would come to listen. However, the territory worked tirelessly to promote the mission of the ISS and expand the profile of The Salvation Army. God honoured their efforts. Every venue was packed, with people standing in churches and even outside at Buenos Aires Central Corps. The Army in Argentina has only 1,800 soldiers and officers. However, far in excess of this number of people packed venues throughout Buenos Aires and Rosario. Landing at Buenos Aires airport, 13 hours after taking off from Heathrow on an overnight flight, we commenced our concert at the San Andres Presbyterian church. Exhaustion was
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quickly overcome when we saw excited faces in the capacity congregation. South American joy shone through and items were greeted with standing ovations – expressed without inhibition, either singularly or en masse. After a good night’s sleep we conducted a vocal workshop on Sunday afternoon with a group of 35 young Salvationists known as the Buenos Aires Singers. They came from all over the Buenos Aires Division, representing a group that sings at divisional and territorial events. Although The Salvation Army in Argentina is small numerically, the average age of the soldiery is young. They were so anxious to learn that they literally sat on the edge of their seats to listen whenever Staff Songster Leader Dorothy Nancekievill spoke. We were privileged to conduct a meeting at Buenos Aires Central Corps, including the installation of Chief Secretary Lieut-Colonel Ricardo Fernández. The singing in Spanish of ‘Somebody Prayed For Me’ at his dedication is a moment that will live in our minds. The young people of Argentina are proud to wear their uniforms, although many struggle to afford them. Throughout the vocal workshop the Buenos Aires Singers sat immaculately dressed in summer uniform and after a brief discussion the ISS local officers decided to donate our red festival tunics to the group. The announcement was met with screams of joy! The young people immediately identified members of the ISS who were their size and the jackets were literally taken off our backs. The next day we travelled five hours from Buenos Aires to Rosario and led worship at the Methodist church. Extremes of wealth and poverty were evident as we passed opulent properties
then poor neighbourhoods, some of which can only be described as slums. At first, the church was virtually empty but was soon packed. Time keeping in South America is not as it is in the UK! From Argentina we sailed to Montevideo, Uruguay, for a concert at the Anglican church. We had been told that, it being the middle of winter, the seafront church might be chilly but that stoves would be installed. Nothing could have prepared us for the temperature! Elliot Launn (piano) tried to warm his fingers by keeping a cup of hot water handy but our noses must have shown how frozen we were. However, nothing could diminish the joy of the audience as they sat wrapped in furs and winter coats. Having tried to warm up overnight we travelled to the El Atardecer Seniors Home where, again, not only was the room in which we sang packed to capacity, but also the overflow room and every available standing space. After sharing a beautiful dinner cooked at the home, we said goodbye before boarding another flight for what would be a 17-and-a-half-hour journey to Boston, USA.
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SIXTEEN THOUSAND MILES TRAVELLED... HUNDREDS OF LIVES, INCLUDING OUR OWN, CHANGED
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Having flown thousands of miles north and between hemispheres it was immediately apparent from the temperature that we had landed in the middle of the North American summer. We boarded the coach for the three hour journey to Old Orchard Beach, Maine, stopping en route at an Adult Rehabilitation Centre for lunch. Those who had not been to Old Orchard Beach before were staggered by the complex and the facilities. A fantastic weekend followed in which we supported General Linda Bond as she led meetings. It is impossible for me to express the countless times we saw lives being changed. Hundreds of people knelt at the mercy seat in Argentina and the USA. We have since heard from the territorial leadership of South America East that the Buenos Aires Singers, with their new tunics, will now be formally recognised as divisional songsters and will travel to minister and support worship. The General’s vision of One Army, One Mission, One Message became clear while at Old Orchard Beach. We had been made aware while we were in Argentina that the music camp ministry in the territory was under threat this year, through a shortfall in funding of US$5,000. We shared this with the congregation in one meeting. Within moments almost $8,000 had been donated. Sixteen thousand miles travelled, three very different countries visited, hundreds of lives, including our own, changed. One Army, One Mission, One Message and one Almighty God to whom we give all the glory.
ISS ITINERARY FOR THE 2012-13 SEASON 2012 Royal Albert Hall (Christmas With The Salvation Army) Thursday 29 November
Llandaff Cathedral, Cardiff (Handel’s Messiah with The Welsh Sinfonia) Saturday 1 December
2013 Reading Central Saturday 19, Sunday 20 January
Risca Saturday 9, Sunday 10 February
Greenock Saturday 16, Sunday 17 March
Guisborough Saturday 20, Sunday 21 April
Southampton Sholing Saturday 18, Sunday 19 May
Gospel Arts Concert Saturday 8 June
Music Leaders Councils Sunday 9 June
Norway, Iceland and The Færoes Territory 125th Anniversary Congress – Oslo Thursday 27 – Sunday 30 June The staff songsters are particularly looking forward to their engagement on 1 December when they will be joining with The Welsh Sinfonia and conductor Mark Eager to present Handel’s Messiah at Llandaff Cathedral. For more information about this event visit www.welshsinfonia.co.uk In recent months the staff songsters have welcomed new members – Ross Mercer (tenor, Boscombe), Hazel Launn (soprano, Bedford Congress Hall) and Simon Turner (bass, Staines)
KEVIN IS SERGEANT/BUSINESS MANAGER FOR THE ISS Salvationist 17 November 2012
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PRISONS FEATURE
Prisoners read The War Cry Each year Prisons Week provides a reminder and an opportunity to pray for the many aspects of prison ministries
S
ALVATION Army prison ministries are multifaceted. Prison Ministries Officer Major David Tribble (THQ) says that, although not every prison has a Salvation Army chaplain, in most prisons the Army has a presence through The War Cry – a service funded by prison ministries. Requests for The War Cry come from prison authorities and chaplains. Anglican chaplain Liberté Harris (HMP Manchester and HMP Risley) describes her experience: ‘I find The War Cry invaluable and indispensable. As chaplain I have various statutory duties, which include visiting every prisoner in the segregation unit every day. The War Cry is welcomed by everyone, with the exception of a pagan who politely declined. When you are alone and without radio or TV, reading is important, although as many as 40 per cent of prisoners have major problems with literacy and numeracy. ‘I also take The War Cry to the healthcare unit and to the vulnerable prisoners’ wings. There is one man who asks for the paper every week and gets upset if I forget – which I sometimes do! I place some of the 60 copies I receive on a carousel close to the entrance of a prison wing – they are always taken!
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Salvationist 17 November 2012
Praise God for all he is doing in prison.’ Prisons Week in England and Wales runs from 18 to 24 November and is backed by various Christian denominations including The Salvation Army and organisations that support prisons ministry. The week aims to raise awareness of the needs of prisoners and their families, victims of offenders, prison staff and all those who care. Linked to awareness is a call for churches and individuals to consider how they can support the prayer subjects. Church leaders endorsing Prisons Week include the Archbishop of Wales, the Most Rev Barry Morgan, who said: ‘One of the most difficult things we can humanly do is to stand alongside someone in different circumstances to ourselves. ‘Few of us can understand the isolation, loneliness and hopelessness of prison. This not only affects those within the prison system but also their families, their victims and those who work there. Judges and police, too, often work alone and the responsibilities of directly and justly deciding the future of another human being must weigh heavily on them. Christians rejoice that Jesus shares that same sense of imprisonment and walks alongside all who live in loneliness.
‘Prisons Week is an opportunity to identify in prayer with those who need compassion and understanding and those whose lives have been broken through their own mistakes and the deeds of others. I commend this week in a spirit of freedom, recalling always that Jesus came to proclaim liberty to the captive and freedom to those imprisoned.’ This year’s theme Taking The Path Of Life highlights the fact that none of us travel alone but in the company of others and Jesus himself. Each day has a specific focus and gives opportunity for individual or collective prayer. I TAKE REFUGE Day one reflects on the victims of crime who may have a real sense of outrage and abandonment, of fear and impotent anger as well as a lasting sense of threat and insecurity. If your home or your person has been attacked by someone else, where can safety be found? For all those who feel that there is no place of safety and for those who have been the victims of crime there are prayers for God’s healing and peace, for the refuge of his love to be the place where new hope and new confidence can grow and flourish.
MY CHOSEN PORTION On the second day, thought is given to all prison workers who face difficult conditions, lack of time and resources and the personally taxing nature of the work. The human cost is highlighted in staff who are hurting or facing difficulties and who are drained still more by the needs of those they care for. The prayer is made that they will be unafraid, compassionate and strong and that they will find grace and strength sufficient for the tasks in hand and enough to spare for the unexpected demands of their work. YOU HOLD MY LOT Day three acknowledges that it is always extremely difficult for prisoners’ families and the families of their victims who are caught up in drama and despair that are not of their making. They have to come to terms with either the horror of one of their family members being abused or exploited or the equal but quite different horror of dealing with the knowledge that one of their own family is responsible for the hurt caused. In both situations family members need support and the wisdom, strength and grace that only God can provide. HE GIVES ME COUNSEL On day four, thought is given to those who administer justice and how, in their daily journey, they must balance the needs of a community that demands harsh punishment with the needs of a wide variety of people who require the opportunity to take a new path in life. In remembering all who work in the criminal justice system, prayers are made that they will be guided by God, who alone is the source of discernment and good judgment. AT MY RIGHT HAND Being sent to prison can be one of the most frightening things imaginable and prayers for day five reflect the feelings of the prisoner. When arriving in prison they often know no one. Those they meet may be very dangerous at worst and strangers at best. Someone else has all the power and responsibility for them. This is disempowering and it is easy for a prisoner to believe that they are unable to change anything. Prayers are for hope to be kept alive, for resources and encouragement for new life and growth.
YOU DO NOT GIVE ME UP The final day brings the reminder that God does not give up on us. It is important that we do not give up on prisons, prisoners, their families, their victims or the criminal justice system by adopting punitive and vengeful responses. Just as God shows mercy and forgiveness to all who repent, so we should show mercy and forgiveness to those who are released from prison and who seek new paths of life within communities. O
For more information, including prayers for each day visit www.prisonsweek.org
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The Salvation Army is involved within the Criminal Justice System
in a number of ways. Some corps lead services in prison and support prisoners on release, including the provision of clothing through charity shops. Others involve people on Community Service Orders within corps programmes. Major Tribble is researching the extent of The Salvation Army’s ministry within the Criminal Justice System and would like to hear from individuals or corps who are working with prisoners, offenders or ex-offenders. Please either email chloe. pritchard@salvationarmy.org.uk or write to Prison Ministries, THQ, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN. Salvationist 17 November 2012
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FEATURE
ONE ARMY, MANY PARTS Salvation Army International Development (UK) tells Salvationist where the money goes and why THE Salvation Army is large – now at work in 125 countries around the world, having come a long way since God raised up this Movement in a corner of poverty-stricken East London. The Salvation Army is diverse – united in cause and motivation: to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity. The Army is one body with many parts. However, this body may have been, inadvertently, guilty
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THE SALVATION ARMY IS DIVERSE – UNITED IN CAUSE AND MOTIVATION: TO SAVE SOULS, GROW SAINTS AND SERVE SUFFERING HUMANITY
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sometimes of mistaking hands for feet. A misconception has arisen about the ways in which the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland provides financial support for the Army’s work overseas. There is sometimes confusion or misunderstanding surrounding the allocation of funds. Monetary support for ministry abroad can typically be split into two categories: Mission Support and Community Development. One is often mistaken for the other, but the following information may clarify the differences.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Our feet
THIS is supported by donations made to projects such as Watershed and FARM. This income is generated through fundraising campaigns such as Live Below The Line and the helping-hand appeal. Our JUST Gifts catalogue supports these specific projects, as well as one-off fundraising events and steady income through direct debits. This money is used specifically for community projects in developing countries, tackling issues such as agriculture,
clean water and sanitation, income-generation and human trafficking. Salvation Army International Development (UK) funds these projects to support individuals and families living in poverty, empowering them to build a better life and a future. This work is facilitated and promoted by SAID (UK). Community Development projects do not provide emergency response or handouts that promote dependency; this is about helping communities to lift themselves out of poverty O
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To find out how you can support The Salvation Army’s international development work call 020 7367 4777 or visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/id – you can also keep up to date via Facebook: www.facebook.com/SAIDUK and Twitter: @SAIDUK
ADVERTISEMENTS
MISSION SUPPORT Our hands
THIS is the money faithfully and sacrificially given through the Self-Denial Missionary Appeal altar service every year. Monies raised through the Self-Denial Missionary Appeal help to develop the Salvation Army infrastructure of our five Partners in Mission. At present, UKT is Partners in Mission with the Army in Finland, South America, Pakistan, Mozambique and Ghana. This funding goes towards the financing and resourcing of vehicles, computers and office equipment, halls and property matters, rallies and training
Self-Denial Missionary Appeals help to support the crucial infrastructure of Army mission, supporting Salvationists in practical ways, enabling mission. Appeal material is produced by the Fundraising Department. Self-Denial Missionary Appeal income does not provide food, water, healthcare or education to individuals in the partner countries O The Self-Denial Missionary Appeal runs from
3 February to 3 March 2013, highlighting our partner territories. Material will be available from THQ in the New Year.
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BIBLE STUDY
God’s amazing journey The first of two studies by Major Keith White
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ERHAPS the most uncomfortable indictment on the human race is that the instinct of true, unselfish love is largely undiscovered. There have been moments, however, when true love has been revealed, like points of light in the cosmos. To an all-seeing God, our world is a gem of creation so precious that its existence gives him the joy that restores us over and over again. There was a point in time when his concern for us was so compelling, he chose to sample the life he’d created. Spawned also by heartache over how briefly true love shone in the history of humanity, he knew we needed saving from ourselves. Becoming like us in order to teach us how to love, he would shine in our world again – but long before the Incarnation, Scripture records his journey, from the beginning of time. We may talk about the journey of humankind being inexorably linked with God in the Bible, but it is good to remind ourselves of what God went through. In being reminded of his journey, we may more frequently call upon the Saviour to keep us focused on ours. It all began when God created everything from nothing. In Genesis 1:3 God said: ‘Let there be light’ (New International Version). If that was day one and – as science suggests – represents the advent of light 380,000 years after the ‘big bang’ 13.7 billion years ago, then we are left in awe. We cannot comprehend the omnipotence of a God who could do that and see that window of time as virtually instant. But there’s more! The creation of life itself: God’s most flamboyant enterprise. 16
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In Genesis 2, God’s journey with the human race began when things were intrinsically right. With free will, however, that first bright moment became clouded by disobedience – the Fall. God was set for a bumpy ride! How would he retrieve this situation? Destroy everything and start again? The story of Noah and the flood showed it wasn’t in God’s nature to completely exterminate what he’d created (Genesis 8:18–22). Signing off this stage of his journey with a rainbow
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ALL WHO CHOSE TO FOLLOW HIM WOULD DO SO NOT BY COMMAND BUT BY THE INSTINCT TO LOVE
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was not a future get-out-of-jail-free card. God’s people would have to live with the responsibility of covenant (Genesis 9:12 and 13); sacrifice and circumcision would distinguish it (Genesis 17). Abraham was prepared to sacrifice his son, Isaac; it proved his faith (Genesis 22:1–19). The patriarchs and tribes of Jacob similarly avowed themselves. Moses’ travelling companion was a warrior God who identified himself in fire, thunder and cloud, guiding the children of Israel to the Promised Land on the premise of obedience. The covenant had evolved from the flash of a ceremonial
knife to include ten God-given precepts – building blocks of a nation. In the Promised Land judges ruled, kings were anointed and prophets reminded people of their duty to God, invoking, as Elijah did, God’s power to convince pagans of the one true God (1 Kings 18:21–39). God’s journey was hard. His people, passionate though fickle, chosen, yet choosing so often to ignore him, were dispersed and needed saving. Accessed only by prophets, priests and kings, God needed to be accessible to all. It got personal! His journey had taken him from the dawn of time to the Promised Land. To continue his quest, the covenant had to be ramped up – the sacrifice supreme and the law superseded by love that made obedience natural. All who chose to follow him would do so not by command but by the instinct to love when they asked him into their lives. It was time for the greatest event in human history. Today, we can have a personal relationship with God because of it. AFTERTHOUGHTS O Are rules our guiding principles, or is love? O Is our journey of faith helped by reviewing God’s mission of love?
MAJOR WHITE IS CORPS OFFICER, MAIDENHEAD
LETTERS SURVEY COULD LEAD TO OPPORTUNITY I REFER to the Territorial Commander’s recent ‘Hearts On Fire’ feature (Salvationist 13 October). Like so many others, I share our leader’s concern that within the context of our Mission Statement, we are not sufficiently effective in winning souls for Jesus. This must reflect on the strategy of our Movement as well as the commitment and initiatives undertaken by individual soldiers, adherent members and friends who support it. A justifiable inference was expressed that the Army is substantially dependent on the general public for financial support – not only for our social work endeavours but also to maintain our corps programmes. Constant efforts are made to present the Army as a church, as well as a social services institution, that endeavours to attract people into its halls to participate in Christian worship. Taking into account that the public are one of our main sponsors, perhaps it is now opportune to take into account their views on how the Army is perceived. What do they expect from us and what would induce them to adopt us as their spiritual home? A carefully compiled survey may well open up a channel of discovery and opportunity that would enable us to identify with the population and take on board objective views and observations that might be key to a meaningful review of our methods of evangelistic ministry and the contemporary way we present the Army. We may find that we are a long way apart but, alternatively, a degree of fine-tuning may be all that is necessary. Whatever our findings, as I see it, harmony must exist between the way in which we present the gospel and the understanding of those who will receive it. We recall the time when the disciples experienced a fruitless night’s fishing on the Sea of Galilee. Jesus told them to fish from the other side of the boat. To these tired fishermen, with their expert knowledge, such a tactic would have been looked upon as a futile exercise – but we are aware of the outcome. Maybe this suggestion is worthy of a
similar act of faith, and for our Movement to go on to rejoice in a bountiful harvest of souls in the Kingdom of God! Richard Sheppard, Stapleford
DOWNIE CD IS A WINNER I FEEL I must write and compliment all concerned in the production of the CD From The Heart – Reflective Music By Kenneth Downie, which was reviewed in the 13 October Salvationist. The CD is a winner all the way and should be a must for all Salvationists. The skills of Kenneth Downie are artistically presented by the regal sounds of the International Staff Band under the competent leadership of Stephen Cobb. The cornet and euphonium playing of Philip Cobb and Derrick Kane is worth the purchase price of the CD alone, not forgetting the recording skills of Brian Hillson and his team. Bram Scott, Woodbridge
WE ARE CALLED TO REPRODUCE I CONGRATULATE the Salvationist team on the new format. I like the clear layout and agree with the quote from General Shaw Clifton (Salvationist 3 November) about people being prompted to contribute in written form to modern Salvationist literature. I was pleased to see Worcester shown in the news features, sharing a change for our corps as we adopt Messy Church into our programme. It is exciting to see people embrace church in a new way. Worcester has been through many changes recently and our trust in God has shown us that when we move forward God blesses what we do. Also we have been busy supporting the media office at THQ who have been doing a brilliant job on our web pages (salvationarmy.org.uk/wmd/Worcester). I read with interest the article by Major Andrew Vertigan and would reiterate his
thoughts. While Worcester is not a new plant, we do not sit idle and ignore the points Andrew makes. We are called to be a reproductive Movement. We are called to do anything that some might be saved. God the Holy Spirit is calling us to start new works for him and I believe every established church should continually reflect and grow as if it were a new creation. I too would urge that we all listen to what God wants for us. Angela Wood, Worcester
MORE PEOPLE SHOULD READ SALVATIONIST CONGRATULATIONS on the new format of Salvationist. The fonts are easier to read and the daily prayer guide is excellent. Thank you for mentioning the persecuted Church. I frequently refer to it in my meetings and last week’s meeting leader, Major Betty Jones, also referred to a recent Salvationist article. I feel more people should buy and read Salvationist as it provides so much food for thought. It also alerts us to special events, reminding us that even if it does not seem to be happening where we are, there is plenty going on around the UK and overseas. It challenges us to look at new ways to reach out. Fleur Murray, Norwich
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ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED O CSM John Huyton, Blackpool South O CT Iain Murray, Newcastle City Temple O CMS Jon Harris, YPSM Andy Hurd, Gloucester WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Golden: O Charles and Mrs Margaret Say, Gloucester DEDICATED TO GOD O Lakeisha, daughter of King Gadzikwa and Joyce Sapahla, by Lieutenant Sam Hamilton, Raphael, son of Ransom and Lisa Mizuzewa by Captain Jonathan Hamilton, both at Bootle O Mia Chloë, daughter of Glen and Lisa Little, at Regent Hall by Major Richard Gaudion O Luke Michael Colin and Phoebe Elizabeth, children of Lee Reynolds and Catherine Garnham, at Tadley by Major Philip Garnham O Dominic Charles, son of Bandsman Martin and Songster Helen Hopwood, at Leeds Central by Major David Ryder O Eva Sarah, daughter of Bandsman Andrew and Songster Rebecca Murray, at Newcastle City Temple, by Major Yvonne Dare BEREAVED O Celia Edwards, Hinckley, of her husband Desmond, Major Lynn Highton, North-Western DHQ, Glenys Holt, Hinckley, of their father, Maureen Dragon, Nuneaton, of her brother O Sheila Tovey of her husband B/Reservist Gordon Tovey, SCL/ Songster Michelle Dickens of her father, both Staple Hill O Songster Annabelle Dunn, Parkhead, of her mother Anna McAllister RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: O Major Margaret Tipping, Glasgow (80 on 21 November) O Major Brian Stubbington, Hadleigh, Essex (80 on 24 November) CHRISTMAS MAILING LIST O Lieut-Colonels Malcolm and Valerie Forster, Cape Town, South Africa
PROMOTED TO GLORY O RS Winifred Golbourn, Harpenden OFFICIAL GAZETTE UK Territory LONG SERVICE 40 years – O Major David Squibb, St Albans ANDRÉ COX Commissioner Territorial Commander
TRIBUTES MRS JOAN SHEPHERD, SALE BORN in Manchester in 1927, Joan enjoyed a happy childhood. She met her husband Stan – who was in the Armed Forces – while working in a retail butcher’s office. They married after the war and had a son and daughter, Paul and Anne. Joan worked as a bookkeeper and hospital wages clerk. Her faith was very strong. For many years she attended the Anglican Church but Stan returned to the Army when Sale Corps opened in 1991. Joan continued attending her church, but went to the Army on Sunday evenings and eventually decided to become an adherent member. She enjoyed singing with the Young in Heart Choir, attending the women’s fellowship, assisting in the kitchen, and was always ready to help. – S. S.
BAND RESERVIST BILL UNWIN, SOUTHAMPTON SHIRLEY BILL grew up at Dublin Rathmines and married Doreen after RAF service. They soldiered together at Shirley for more than 60 years. A committed Salvationist, Bill’s local officer positions included corps sergeantmajor, corps treasurer, recruiting sergeant and corps secretary. He valued the ministry of Army banding and was still playing until the end. He was also a founder member of the Solent Fellowship Band. A deeply caring man, Bill was always keen to encourage young people and faithfully continued his visitation ministry until the day before his promotion to Glory. He leaves his wife, sons Tony and Kevin and two grandchildren. – T. U./K. U.
NANCY BALLANTYNE, SPRINGBURN NANCY grew up in a Christian family and gave her heart to the Lord at the age of eight. She played in the band during the war and was a songster before a stroke earlier this year. Her father’s early death necessitated her going to work instead of university, as she had hoped. She attained her ‘Highers’ in her seventies. Very involved in guiding, Nancy was captain of the Springburn (SA) Girl Guides and later became district commissioner. After learning first-aid skills she trained as a nurse and enjoyed this career for 20 years. In retire-
ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL LINDA BOND: O Caribbean, Mon 12 Nov - Tu 20 O Papua New Guinea, Wed 21 - Tu 27 O Southern Africa, Mon 3 Dec - Tu 11 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER BARRY SWANSON) AND COMMISSIONER SUE SWANSON: O UK, Doncaster, Sat Sun 25 Nov O ICO, Fri 30 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANDRÉ COX) AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: O Westminster Abbey (laying of a wreath on the Tomb of the Innocents), Tu 20 Nov O National Arboretum (dedication of Salvation Army memorial), Sat 24 O Royal Albert Hall (Christmas with The Salvation Army), Th 29 O Palace of Westminster (Parliamentary carol service), Th 6 O West Scotland, Sat Sun 9 Dec O Stepney, Fri 14 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: O Scotland Council, Th 22 Nov O Royal Albert Hall (Christmas with The Salvation Army), Th 29 O Palace of Westminster (Parliamentary carol service), Th 6 Dec O William Booth College, Th 13 COMMISSIONERS TORBEN AND DEISE ELIASEN: O Latin America North, Sat 24 Nov - Sat 1 Dec COMMISSIONERS ALISTAIR AND ASTRID HERRING: O New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga (including Commissioning), Sat 1 Dec - Th 13 COMMISSIONERS LALKIAMLOVA AND LALHLIMPUII: O Middle East Region, Wed 14 Nov - Mon 19 COMMISSIONERS ROBERT AND JANET STREET: O UK, Rugby, Sat Sun 18 Nov INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND: O Chelmsford, Sat Sun 25 Nov O Royal Albert Hall (Christmas with The Salvation Army), Th 29 INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS: O Royal Albert Hall (Christmas with The Salvation Army), Th 29 O Llandaff Cathedral, Cardiff, Sat 1 Dec
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ment she joined the home league and became involved in its leadership. Nancy was a loyal and faithful soldier.
HARRY WINDGET, DARTFORD BORN and brought up by loving Christian parents in the church at Sutton at Hone in Kent, Bill started attending the Army at Bromley in 1947. He married Joyce there in 1953. They both heard the voice of God calling them to officership, but unfortunately this was not fulfilled because of Joyce’s health. The family later transferred to Dartford, where Harry became band colour sergeant, YP treasurer and company guard. Working as a bus conductor for London Transport, he was able to share his Christian faith and witness on many occasions. Harry loved the Lord and the Army and gave his all right up to the end – always putting others first. He was a real gentleman. – S. W.
REGINALD RODGERS, SALE BORN in 1920 at Burton-on-Trent, Reg became a junior and senior musician – progressing from the triangle to piano and euphonium. In 1939 he joined the 6th North Staffordshire Regiment Military Band, also playing in Salvation Army bands throughout the UK. He met his wife Olive in Liverpool during his first military posting. They married in 1941. After the war Reg served as songster leader at Liverpool Bootle before moving to Manchester, where they worshipped at Manchester Citadel (now Sale). Reg – who loved music and worshipping God – formed the Young in Heart Choir, which is still thriving. He had three daughters, eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Reg was a great encourager and was much loved and respected by everyone. – L. E.
RETIRED BANDMASTER ARTHUR CHAPMAN, BRIGHTON CONGRESS HALL ARTHUR initially came to prominence as a fine euphonium player. Following the
transfer of his officer-parents to Brighton Congress Hall, his flair for music leadership resulted in a comprehensive apprenticeship as singing company leader and YP band leader. He became bandmaster in 1952. Arthur cut a commanding figure as leader of an impressive ensemble, studded with gifted soloists. His forthright style of conducting, coupled with a demand for detail, elicited consistently high standards from a band whose musicianship and Christian witness were always evident. His 25 years of sterling service were followed by an excursion into the contesting arena, but Arthur never lost his admiration and respect for the ministry of Army bands. – P. W.
ASSISTANT CORPS SERGEANTMAJOR/ SONGSTER MRS MARY OSBORNE, GRAVESEND BORN into a Salvationist family, Mary came into soldiership through the juniors and corps cadets. A devoted and loyal soldier, she gave generously of her time, talents and money to the Lord and supported every corps event, as well as other charities. Mary possessed a fine alto voice and was an invaluable songster and corps pianist. She served as songster sergeant and songster leader for a time and was also a home league member. She led a disciplined Christian life and encouraged others to do likewise. A true servant of God, Mary was promoted to Glory after a long and painful illness endured with fortitude. She leaves her husband Ken and other family members. – J. H.
LEONARD CONNOLLY, GRAYS LEN grew up in Laindon, where he knelt at the drum outside a pub in the main street and gave his heart and life to God at the age of 14. He became a company guard and played euphonium in the band. He transferred to Grays in 1940 after marriage to Florence. He served for a while as band sergeant and was later corps secretary for nine years. Len was promoted to Glory on his 72nd wedding anniversary. His funeral was
conducted by his granddaughter, Major Michelle Huggins. He was much loved by his wife and two children, seven grandchildren, 19 greatgrandchildren and corps members. – R. L.
KENNETH SCOTT, BUCKIE KENNETH was born in 1941 at Findochty, where he became a YP band member. He continued to play Eb bass – the instrument he loved – for many years. As bandmaster, he encouraged his family and other young people by teaching them to play brass instruments. Blessed with a fine singing voice, Kenneth’s solos were always enjoyed. He also sang duets with his wife Catherine, whom he married in 1962. They had two children, Jane and James, and five grandchildren, who brought much pride and joy to their grandad. More recently, Kenneth attended Buckie where he was a great encourager to newcomers. He lost his fight against cancer after a short illness bravely borne. – C. M.
MARTIN WIGHTMAN, TAVISTOCK MARTIN became a soldier two months before his promotion to Glory. He took his responsibility as organist for the Methodist Church in Plymouth seriously, but also supported his Salvationist wife Joyce at Plymouth Congress Hall and Tavistock. His conviction to become a Salvationist became strong and he grew in faith during preparation classes. Staff from the crematorium where he played the organ when required joined ministers, friends and colleagues from the many churches and the corps he had served so well to show their respect for this gentle, loving and thoughtful man. Martin and his wife recently attended New Horizons at Bognor Regis, where he was delighted to be part of the staff, playing piano when needed. Please note that soldiers’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 120 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes. Salvationist 17 November 2012
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NEW COMMITMENTS 1. – 3. TERESA MADZINGIRA, MARVELLOUS KUNAKA Soldiers BORNWELL MADZINGIRA Adherent Member PORTSMOUTH CITADEL TERESA and Bornwell arrived from Zimbabwe seeking to make a secure home for their family. Although they previously worshipped at the Roman Catholic church, they decided to attend the Army in Worthing, where a warm welcome convinced them to continue worshipping at the corps. During the immigration process they faced great hardship and the family were deeply touched by the practical help and care they received from Salvationist friends. When they relocated to Portsmouth they found a new spiritual home at Portsmouth Citadel. Theresa and Bornwell are active in the community, helping at the corps community centre and the Red Cross immigration programme. Marvellous first experienced The Salvation Army in Zimbabwe, where her family were active Salvationists. Since moving to Portsmouth, she has attended the corps with her mother and sister. Teresa, Bornwell and Marvellous were delighted to be supported by many friends and family members as they were enrolled and welcomed by corps officer Major Ced Hills. – C. H.
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4. GLADYS WRIGHT Soldier HARLOW GLADYS attended the Army with her family in Zimbabwe. Upon arrival in England she maintained her Army links by worshipping at Southwark Corps and working at the training college. Moving to the town, she attended an Anglican church with her husband but decided to return to her spiritual roots. She testified to being a member of God’s family and how that is important to her. She was re-enrolled by corps officer Major Paul Holifield and supported by 14 Zimbabwean Salvationists who sang worship songs in the Shona language. – P. H. 5. MURRAY MCLEAN Junior soldier CLYDEBANK MURRAY accepted Jesus as his personal saviour in the presence of proud family and friends. He attends the corps with his family and was so impatient to become a junior soldier that he announced his decision at school in front of his classmates. Murray was enrolled by corps officer Major Chris Connelly. – C. M. 6. ADRIAN BROWN, RUTH BROWN Adherent members LEIGH-ON-SEA ADRIAN and Ruth became involved with the corps when their son, Alexius, attended the children’s activities. They were welcomed as adherent members by corps officer Major John Carmichael. – P. J. 7. – 9. DANNY DANIELS Soldier BETTY RICHARDS, BEV BRADBURY Adherent members STAINES THERE was a constant niggle in Danny’s mind that he should follow in his wife’s footsteps into soldiership. After attending membership classes, he decided to take a step of faith and become a soldier. Betty received an invitation from a friend to attend the corps and received such a warm welcome that she now attends every Sunday. Bev, a former Salvationist, drifted away from the Army and attended other churches. After linking up with the Street Angels he found a number of Salvationists in the team and was invited to the Army. He realised it was where God wanted him to be. Major David Scott enrolled Danny and welcomed Betty and Bev as adherent members. – M. J. 20
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Through the week with Salvationist – a devotional thought for each day Saturday
Monday
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.
I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.
(Psalm 139:9 and 10 all quotations from New International Version)
Sunday He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock That shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life in the depths of his love, And covers me there with his hand. (SASB 710)
(Isaiah 49:15 and 16)
Tuesday Lord, cleanse my hands, and cleanse my heart, All selfish aims I flee, My faith reward, thy love impart, And let me dwell with thee. (SASB 461)
Wednesday Dull are my ears to hear thy voice,
Slow are my hands to work for thee, Loath are my feet to conquer the steeps That lead me to my Calvary. (SASB 488)
Thursday Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. (Ecclesiastes 9:10)
Friday My times are in thy hand, Why should I doubt or fear? A father’s hand will never cause His child a needless care. (SASB 917)
Praying around the Army world… Australia Eastern Two Christian Mission converts pioneered Salvation Army operations in Adelaide in September 1880. In 1921 Australia was organised into southern and eastern territories. The eastern territory, with its headquarters in Sydney and led by territorial leaders Commissioners James and Jan Condon, has 548 officers, 160 corps with 8,652 soldiers, 2,919 adherent members and 525 junior soldiers. Pray for wisdom and direction as the territory prepares, through the Welcome Home project, to reconnect with those who have left the Army.
Sleat, Isle of Skye. Picture: BERNARD MEALING