Salvationist 18 January 2025 by The Salvation Army UK and Ireland

SALVATIONIST

STRONGER TOGET HER PART OF THE CHURCH

Wholeheartedly

‘DO you believe this?’ Jesus asks Martha in John 11:26. They’re speaking just after the death of Martha and Mary’s brother, Lazarus. These are the words chosen for the 2025 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity – a reminder for all Christians around the world that we’re united in one simple but powerful thing: believing that Jesus is the resurrection and the life.

It’s 1,700 years since the first Christian ecumenical council in Nicaea. Imagine how many differences there must have been between people over those years. Differences of personalities and processes. Now compare those to the enduring, singular truth they all share in understanding together.

As Christians, we can pray today in unity because, as Jesus prayed in John 17, ‘those who will believe in me ... become one heart and mind – just as you, Father, are in me and I in you’ (vv20 and 21 The Message).

We believe the Church is one body of Christ, a united, diverse whole that is of one heart. We believe God’s heart is in us, just as we are in God’s heart. God’s whole heart is big enough to bring all the unique parts of the Church’s body together. Do you believe that with all your heart? And does your wholehearted belief include your fellow believers?

IVAN RADFORD Managing Editor

10 TOGETHER IN KOREA

NEXT WEEK’S ISSUE

Issue No 1995

EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn

MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS

Stevie Hope, George Tanton, Lyn Woods, Major Margaret Bovey, Major Lynne Shaw

SENIOR DESIGNER Hannah Holden

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Louise Phillips, Joseph Halliday, Oyindamola Olagunju

PROOFREADER Chris Horne

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SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS

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

INTERNATIONAL LEADERS

General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

TERRITORIAL LEADERS

Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Julian Watchorn

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS

1 Champion Park, London SE5 8FJ 0845 634 0101

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

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FOUNDERS William and Catherine Booth

One of the faithful

Ivan Radford considers what we can learn about teamwork from The Traitors

IT’S probably a question of when, not if, you’re watching The Traitors. The reality TV show returned this month to five million viewers on BBC One and continues to air its third season every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The format is fiendishly enticing: a group of people must work together to build up a prize pot of money, but hidden among them are traitors who eliminate contestants every night. If these traitors remain undetected at the end of the competition, they walk away with all the money themselves.

‘This is the last time you sit here as equals,’ host Claudia Winkleman told the group as they gathered around a table, before she secretly picked a chosen

Reflect and respond

Read John 17:20–26. What do you think is meant by ‘complete unity’?

Do we make Jesus known to others through our combined words and actions?

What gifts do other Christians around you have that can help you in working together to the glory of God?

few as traitors. The ensuing web of encouraged deceit and betrayal is, of course, irresistible viewing.

Perhaps that’s why the show is named after the traitors – a show called ‘The Faithfuls’ wouldn’t have the same ring to it. But as the show continues, and tensions rise, the faithfuls are the key: if the group can’t complete the challenges they’re set, there’s no prize money at the end. The only way for anyone to succeed is for everyone to focus on a shared goal.

What is the most important characteristic a traitor should have?

‘I think charm and nous,’ commented Claudia ahead of the show’s return. ‘I used to say that I’d prefer to be a traitor,’ she added, ‘but I actually think it’s harder.’

In real life, the opposite is often the case: it can be all too easy to be distracted by disagreements and much harder to live with difference. As Christians, we are called to embrace our diversity within the unity of the wider Church. We are invited by God to join a game that isn’t rigged with rules that force deceit, but encourages us to find harmony as unique parts of the body of Christ – to sit around the table with our fellow believers as equals.

‘There should be no division in the body,’ Paul reminds us. ‘Its parts should have equal concern for each other’ (1 Corinthians 12:25). Unlike the players

in The Traitors, we should avoid being defensive or thinking of ourselves as superior to one another. As well as boldness and passion, our shared values as an Army include compassion, respect, integrity and an accountability that is mutual. As Paul puts it: ‘If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it’ (v26).

The goal? Not just growing together as disciples, but growing this Kingdom community on Earth. A community rooted in disunity might make for entertaining viewing on BBC One, but one built on sincere love, humility and harmony can be attention-grabbing on a whole different scale. That is what we are called to be: rooted in a shared understanding of God, so that we as the Church reflect that bigger truth to everyone around us and they can see and believe for themselves (see John 17:21).

What’s the most important characteristic you should have as a faithful?

IVAN RADFORD Managing Editor Salvationist

Picture:

BBC/Studio Lambert

Glenn Furlong

London DHQ seconds with...

Who are you and what do you do?

Major Glenn Furlong. Divisional area officer and divisional ecumenical officer.

What’s your favourite Bible verse?

In the context of ecumenism, Philippians 2:2: ‘Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.’

What’s your favourite hymn?

Too many to mention. ‘O Love That Willt Not Let Me Go’ has journeyed with me through life.

How did you first get involved in the Army?

I’m a fifth-generation Salvationist, but during my teenage years I decided faith was nonsense. An opportunity to attend Commissioning at the Royal Albert Hall changed my life. A covenant relationship with God followed through soldiership and, eventually, officership.

What do you love, or not love, about the Army?

I am frustrated by the bureaucracy that sometimes is seen to hinder our mission, but the Army in its purest sense as a Movement of God is still transforming lives and bringing people into a living relationship with Jesus!

If you had an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be? Love and laughter.

What do you do in your spare time? I have over 500 LPs. I love listening to records.

‘It gave me a deeper respect and love’

Captain Kathryn Stowers (Wales DHQ) reflects on her journey to becoming the first Ecumenical Canon of Newport Cathedral

BEFORE entering training for Salvation Army officership in my early 40s, I enjoyed a rewarding career in public relations, largely in tourism. But immediately before entering William Booth College, I spent 18 months as the communications officer for the Monmouth Diocese of the Church in Wales.

This time was extremely rich and gave me a deeper respect, love even, for this tradition that was very different to my own. It also helped me reflect on my own journey, as I was about to enter officer training, and God used this time to confirm my calling.

Moving forward seven or so years, and after five very happy years as the corps officer at Eston, I was appointed back to Wales – to Newport, the city where I had worked for the Church in Wales. With a split appointment between being a corps officer and the divisional ecumenical officer for Wales, this would be a different kind of appointment. It was wonderful to reconnect with colleagues and friends, and over coffee I was introduced to the new ecumenical officer for the diocese – a priest at Newport Cathedral – Andrew.

Andrew was quietly building networks around the city between different denominations and very soon we had a group of church leaders ranging from Methodist to United Reformed, Anglican to Salvationist, Presbyterian and even a Roman Catholic nun. Our fellowship is built

Have you got a testimony to share?

We’d love to hear from you at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk.

on coffee, cake and prayer, and it has become a sacred and safe space for us to be vulnerable and share each others’ joys and fears.

We have adopted an urban spirituality built on God’s word to Israel in exile through Jeremiah: ‘But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare’ (Jeremiah 29:7 New Revised Standard Version). Our fellowship is missional and outward-looking. We prayer-walk the city regularly and last Easter we walked the cross through the streets, joined by the Bishop of Monmouth and several other denominations.

The commitment of the cathedral and diocese to our organic ecumenism was confirmed when the Bishop of Monmouth invited me to become the first Ecumenical Canon of Newport Cathedral. It is an honorary role, and requires me to preach at the cathedral at least once a year, and attend at least one Chapter (management) meeting per year. This appointment shows the level of respect with which The Salvation Army is held, and I am privileged to be given this honour.

For me, working together with other Christians who see the world in a similar way to me is the most natural thing in the world. The starting point is always asking where God is leading and what doors he is opening. I am so blessed that he has opened these doors in Newport.

Divisional Commander

Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts, Bishop Cherry Vann and Captain (Canon) Kathryn Stowers

CARING FOR LIFE, NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS

THE RSPCA estimates that around 10 million turkeys are slaughtered for their meat each year, which obviously reaches its peak at Christmas. They also say, ‘We are very concerned about the way that many of the UK’s farmed turkeys are reared, handled, transported and slaughtered... Most turkeys in the UK still live in dark, bare, overcrowded conditions.’ The territory’s mission priority of caring for creation surely includes animal welfare. Christmas may have passed, but one response would be to make sure we only buy RSPCA

A POWERFUL OPPORTUNITY

MAJOR Poxon’s timely article on the climate crisis (23 November Salvationist) rightly challenged us to examine our lifestyle choices. However, while focusing on transport emissions, it overlooked perhaps the most accessible way we can combat climate change: our daily food choices. Research shows that adopting a plant-based diet can reduce our individual carbon footprint by up to 2.1 tons annually – a 66 per cent reduction in food-related emissions. For Salvationists seeking to be good stewards of God’s creation, this

Assured free-range turkeys from now on. However, because the issue is wider than just turkeys, another response could be to think about whether we need to eat any meat at all. One way to start would be to engage in Veganuary – going vegan for the month of January. William Booth would have agreed. In Letters to Salvationists on Religion for Every Day, he wrote, ‘There are multitudes of men and women who would be wiser, healthier, happier and holier without meat altogether.’

LIEUT-COLONEL JONATHAN ROBERTS WALES DHQ

represents an immediate and powerful opportunity to act. The Salvation Army’s Plant-Based Network offers support and guidance for those interested in exploring this vital aspect of environmental stewardship. For more information, please contact towardsveganism@ gmail.com.

MALCOLM DRAGON MALTBY

JAMES AND SALLY

IT was reported that one-fifth of the population of Britain watched the special Christmas episode of Gavin and Stacey. James Corden is now a superstar but when he was about eight years old he was a member of High

Wycombe Singing Company and in 1986 he came to Abertillery with them for a weekend’s visit. My wife and I had the privilege of looking after three of the singing company in our home. James was just a normal little lad with no conception of the stardom that was to follow. I can’t remember much about it, other than they sang well and it was an enjoyable weekend.

ALAN BOWD ABERTILLERY

SHARING THE GOOD NEWS

JUST days after reading the 14 December Salvationist, which focused on the mission priority of sharing the good news, I revisited the 1904 edition of The Musical Salvationist, which included music to be used during the musical festivals at the International Congress that year. ‘Sharing the good news of Jesus is not for evangelists or extroverts. Like every other mission priority, it’s for all of us’ echoed the sentiments in a verse of ‘All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name’ that I had never really encountered before: ‘Let all our soldiers never tire,/ In streets, in lanes, in hall;/ The red-hot gospel shot to fire,/ And crown him Lord of all.’

MAJOR DAVID BLOWERS TERRITORIAL MISSION OFFICER (ROMA)

HOW SUSTAINABLE IS IT?

I HAVE recently purchased some clothing from SP&S and was pleased with my purchase from the sustainable range. Being mindful of our spiritual responsibilities, I’m curious how the SA can promote a range of clothing which is, by omission, unsustainable. The other items have labels which say ‘Made in Bangladesh’ and ‘Made in Pakistan’ but no reference to whether or not they have been made ethically. In the absence of a Fairtrade logo, can we

assume the source is unknown or worse, unethical? This seems contrary to our modern slavery statement.

SIMON GIRLING IPSWICH

Editor’s note: Garry Smith, Director of Mission (SATCoL), states: ‘All clothing sold by SP&S is sustainably sourced, and all SP&S suppliers are required to provide accreditations, modern slavery statements, and ethical credentials. Our “sustainable range” meets all our standard ethical standards, but goes further by using organic fabrics. Additionally, the cardboard, tags and plastic bags associated with these items are 100 per cent recyclable, reusable and biodegradable. While we cannot currently guarantee the same for all items outside this range, we are continually working to enhance our ethical and sustainability practices across our entire product line, in alignment with SATCoL’s own environmental policies and The Salvation Army’s care for creation mission priority.’

YOUR VIEWS

Many years ago General Frederick Coutts said letters for publication in the Army’s press should be ‘carefully thought out, logically presented and charitably expressed’. Letters may be edited and should ideally be no more than 150 words.

Growing in unity

Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts reminds us that every person’s distinct contribution needs to be recognised, respected and celebrated

1 CORINTHIANS 12:12–27

AT a divisional event in Wales last year, people were invited to pick up a coloured ribbon and weave it on to a frame placed at the front of the hall. Dozens of people stepped forward to do this and the result was a colourful tapestry of ribbons representing the different gifts, passions, personalities and backgrounds of those within the division. It was a picture of unity woven together from diversity – a picture of the Church. Does this reflect your experience of church life?

In our study passage, the apostle Paul uses the image of a body to highlight the idea of Christian unity. He describes the Church as the body of Christ and says that, just as with a human body, the body of Christ comprises many parts held together in unity.

Paul’s point is that the Church is not just a collection of people who share the same interests, like a social club or an activity group. Instead, when we are born of the Spirit, we are united in a spiritual bond as part of the body of Christ.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Are there any differences within your fellowship that have the potential to disrupt unity?

How can the awareness that we are bound together by the Spirit in the body of Christ prevent disunity?

The church in Corinth needed to hear this message because diversity, which should have contributed to the richness of their life together, was threatening to destroy it. They were blessed with many spiritual gifts, but some were

being valued above others. Also, there were differences in religious and social backgrounds, which had the potential to divide them.

Paul reveals three ways in which being part of the one body should affect our attitudes and behaviours.

First, unity means recognising our dependence on one another. In our culture the emphasis is often on independence and individualism. However, life in the body of Christ is to be different as we recognise our mutual dependence – our interdependence.

There may be some in the fellowship who think they have nothing to offer because they aren’t like other people (see vv15 and 16). They might feel unwanted, unimportant or even resentful at not being as gifted or having the same role as others. On the other hand, there may be some who feel superior to others because of their gifting or status and so they devalue the contribution of others (see v21).

However, everyone’s contribution is important if the body is to function properly. Without a diversity of gifts and roles, it cannot fulfil its mission (see vv17–19). Each part helps the others to fulfil their potential and serve God. We need each other.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Think about the different people in your fellowship.

How could you encourage them and ensure that their contribution is valued?

Paul also says that within the body of Christ we need to respect our differences. That means acknowledging

that each individual has a unique and significant part to play.

He highlights the differences in the body that need to be respected. For example, some parts are ‘weaker’ but they are ‘indispensable’, some are ‘less honourable’ but deserve ‘special honour’ (see vv22 and 23). No one should be overlooked or looked down on.

We should respect our differences because the Church has been designed and created by God. He has made us who we are and placed us where he wants us (see v18). Verse 24 says: ‘God has put the body together.’ Here, Paul uses the Greek word, synekerasen, which means to mix together, to blend or to unite.

Some versions translate synekerasen as ‘composed’. For example, the New King James Version says: ‘God composed the body.’ This helps us think of the unity of the Church in terms of a piece of music in which the composer creates harmony from different notes. If all the instruments were to play the melody, we would lose the rich harmony the composer has in mind. Of course, there could be disharmony, and some might play their part so loudly that others aren’t heard, so each musician must concentrate fully, play what’s written and watch the dynamics.

In the same way, different gifts and abilities should contribute to the beauty and functioning of the body. Every person’s distinct contribution needs to be recognised, respected and celebrated.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Does your fellowship embrace diverse gifts and abilities?

How are people encouraged to discover, develop and deploy their gifts?

Unity also involves responding to one another’s needs. Paul says that all parts of the body of Christ ‘should have equal concern for each other’ (v25). This kind of mutual support means that when members of the fellowship are going through tough times everyone feels it: ‘If one part suffers, every part suffers with it’ (v26). Therefore, this ought to lead to prayer, encouragement and practical help. Concern for each other also means that ‘if one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it’ (v26). Some people find this difficult and prefer to rejoice in others’ misfortunes. Such an attitude often comes from envy, a sense of insecurity or a lack of self-worth. However, in Christ we can find a loving attitude and a sense of security and selfworth, meaning we shouldn’t feel the need to bemoan others’ blessings or achievements.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Think of someone in your fellowship who is suffering. How can you support them?

Think of someone who is feeling blessed or successful. How can you rejoice with them?

The message of unity in diversity is for every individual church and the Church as a whole. Our differences needn’t cause divisions. Instead, they can form the colourful tapestry of the Church’s worship, work and witness.

A shortened version of Prayer Matters will continue to be published weekly in Salvationist in 2025. To read the full, unedited booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship

SATURDAY 18 JANUARY: CARE FOR CREATION – CONSERVATION AGRICULTURE – COLLABORATION

The Raising Champion Farmers project encourages farmers to support one another, through peer learning and by working together on practical tasks. Pray for a strong sense of community among the farmers as they share their burdens and successes. by Hayley Still (UK Engagement Coordinator, International Development)

SUNDAY 19 JANUARY: SABBATH PRAYER – STEP UP, STAND OUT (1 TIMOTHY 4:7 AND 8)

Lord, help us to courageously step up and stand out for you in our corps, workplaces, schools, community or family. Give us courage to open ourselves to your work in our lives. Help us to welcome your training in our lives, fostering spiritual discipline and a deep commitment to faith.

from the Covenant Sunday 2025 resources

MONDAY 20 JANUARY: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – TERRITORIAL ENVOY SEMINAR (19–24 JANUARY)

Territorial envoys come to this training from all over the UK, most in person but a few online. Pray for safe travel and clear internet connections for those who can’t physically attend. Pray for a deep spiritual connection in all the learning they do. Pray they are resourced, equipped and refreshed. Pray they will be sustained in their ministry. Give thanks to God for their ministry and all who support them in it. by Major Tracey Palmer (William Booth College)

TUESDAY 21 JANUARY: SERVING AND CARING – WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY (18–25 JANUARY)

Jesus prayed for the Church: ‘The goal is for all of them to become one heart and mind – just as you, Father, are in me and I in you… Then the world might believe that you … sent me’ (John 17:21 The Message). Will you pray and work for the unity which Jesus prayed for? by Major Paul Robinson (Territorial Ecumenical Officer)

WEDNESDAY 22 JANUARY: GROWING IN FAITH – WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY

We celebrate in 2025 the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, the first ecumenical council whose members created the Nicene Creed. We are called to consider Jesus’ question to Martha: ‘Do you believe this?’ (John 11:26). As we live out the things we believe, let’s be confident that God will make Christ known through us. by Major Paul Robinson (Territorial Ecumenical Officer)

THURSDAY 23 JANUARY: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE) TERRITORY

Pray for the Army’s work in the Republic of Congo and Gabon, a region that has seen violence and unrest over many years. Pray God will guide Salvationists to those in need. Pray for the leadership team, Colonels Elianise and Jean Laurore Clenat and Lieut-Colonels Beatrice and Celestin Ayabagabo. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)

FRIDAY 24 JANUARY: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – ENCOUNTER PRAYER

GATHERING (24–26 JANUARY)

Father, you are the stability that we need. Thank you for your steadfast resolve in our lives. Prepare our hearts to receive new tools to help us fight for justice. We pray for all those ministering during the weekend. Pray we will encounter your loving Spirit and be strengthened to stand for you in our world. by Major Gary Lacey (Territorial Prayer Coordinator)

LIEUT-COLONEL

JONATHAN ROBERTS Divisional Commander Wales

PRAYER REQUESTS

Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for?

Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line.

Why ecumenism matters

Territorial

Ecumenical Officer Major

Paul

Robinson

shares some thoughts on Church unity with Stevie Hope

What exactly is ecumenism?

It’s making relationships with Christians of other denominations, getting ourselves known and making connections. Every church has the same problems. We might call them different things, but everybody’s in the same boat. We have to listen to stories and share ours, because when you build relationships interesting things happen.

What role do divisional ecumenical officers (DEOs) play?

I work with national Churches Together groups. DEOs attend Churches Together meetings for smaller areas and regions. As you go further down the geographical scale, corps might meet with their local Churches Together group.

Once somebody knows and trusts us, we can have more involvement, so we try to make sure we’re represented on every level. A lot of people still think we’re only a charity; not everybody sees us as a church. The ecumenical team helps people know who we are and why we’re here.

In the Army, nearly everybody involved in the ecumenical team is an officer. This is fine, but in most churches it’s just lay

people – people who have a heart for it. If somebody were interested in joining the team – locally or countywide – that would be really helpful. There are soldiers and adherents who would represent the Army in a really positive way, and we want to give opportunities to minister.

How did you get involved in ecumenism?

I was brought up Methodist and went to a gathering with people from the Church of the Nazarene. Although we were just young people having fun, they explained their doctrines. We just couldn’t believe it; they believed the same as we did! We assumed our churches were different. Bit by bit, you realise that coming together is good because we share so much. Together we find friends to share the journey with.

This year is the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. Why does that matter? AD 325 was the first ecumenical council, when Christians gathered to define Jesus and work out what it means to be the Church in relation to him. Was he God? Was he a nice man? Was he

the God-man? They created the Nicene Creed. In the Army, we perhaps don’t know it well, but we agree with it.

There will be lots happening throughout 2025 to celebrate this anniversary. The first is the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

There are many denominations within the Church. Is there a risk some people might think that means some are ‘more’ Christian than others?

If you see Jesus in someone, the category, badge or whatever doesn’t matter. The Salvation Army isn’t perfect – we’re sinners who have been saved. We don’t have all the answers on our own. We shouldn’t argue for the sake of it. There are people with strong views who would persuade you their way is right. Occasionally, there are people who don’t view Salvationists as Christians at all. I’m not interested in arguing, but rather showing who we truly are. That’s a relationship that takes time, and it’s never done overnight.

The Army started as a mission to people who didn’t, wouldn’t or couldn’t go to church. The idea was to take

them to other churches, but they were rejected. That’s how we became a denomination. But we’re a mission –we exist to help people know God. You matter, whoever you are. Not the Army’s way of doing things. We’re not more Christian because of what we do. We offer an alternative that makes us available to particular people. We’re part of a universal Church, and I believe there’s a church for every person. If somebody comes to the Army, that’s wonderful. But if they prefer high Anglicanism or Pentecostalism, that’s fine because we’ve done our bit to get them to Jesus. We shouldn’t be saying ‘do this’, or ‘don’t do that’. We should be saying: ‘Come and try us. If you’re happy, stay.’

• Get involved in ecumenism by emailing ecumenical@salvationarmy.org.uk, calling 020 7367 4941 or visiting salvationist. org.uk/ecumenical

Ecumenism in action

Captains Emma and Les Heal

Central and Southern Scotland Division

Being DEOs allows us to work alongside fellow Christians of all denominations. We’ve helped organise a retreat day for clergy, spoken at Glasgow City Chambers and attended many services of various styles. In Kilmarnock, we have an active fellowship of churches and meet monthly to worship in different traditions. Les currently chairs Glasgow Churches Together, and he’s keen to further ecumenism within the youth of all denominations.A particular highlight was a talk, Mass and lunch with Father Gabriel Romanelli, the Catholic parish priest of Gaza. It was challenging to hear the realities of daily life in Gaza and the role Christians are playing. He said: ‘Gaza would be hell if Jesus wasn’t there.’

Major Katrina Greetham

Central, Southern and Channel Islands Division

I am passionate about sharing in God’s mission as ecumenical friends and colleagues. As a DEO, I am privileged to be invited to inductions, bishop’s breakfasts and ecumenical events within Dorset, which give the Army an active presence and opportunities to network, know and be known. I am the Chair of Churches Together in Dorset and lead quiet days for different congregations. Church leaders can often simply be too busy to reach out to other churches around them, so ecumenism doesn’t happen. Coming into a new appointment last July, I was sad to learn there was no minister’s fraternal operating. Coffee with the Methodist minister led to coffee with the United Reformed Church minister… We now have an organic fellowship, with the first pulpit swaps arranged for 26 January. My challenge would be for folks in any congregation with a heart to engage ecumenically to see what’s happening where they are!

Major Allister Versfeld

North West and Isle of Man Division

Over the past five years, I have had the joy of meeting with local Methodist, Catholic and Church of England ministers, as we host a Wednesday prayer meeting at Strawberry Field. Sharing life and prayer has been invaluable. I represent the Army in Liverpool Free Churches and Churches Together Merseyside Region. Working and meeting together excites me with a common purpose of sharing Jesus, even in our diversity. Working with the Methodist Church during Eurovision 2023 was a great blessing – during that time we were involved with the Ukrainian community and facilitated a number of united services. Local corps are already busy doing and being who God wants them to be in their community, so asking people to come alongside other denominations can be a challenge. There are so many different church groups and prayer networks in the city it can also be hard to decide what and who to join with. My suggestion is always to build networks locally and find creative ways to partner with others in mission.

STEVIE HOPE Editorial Assistant Salvationist

All Ecumenical Representatives Conference, September 2024

United in evangelism

Captain John Clifton reflects on attending the 2024

Lausanne Congress

THE Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization, first convened in 1974 by Billy Graham and John Stott, has long been a landmark event in global Christianity. The gathering in Incheon, South Korea, in 2024 was no exception, drawing more than 5,000 delegates from across 200 nations. It demonstrated the breadth and diversity of Christ’s body and was a bold reaffirmation of the Church’s shared mission to proclaim the gospel to the ends of the earth.

From a Salvationist perspective, Lausanne was a profound demonstration of how unity in Christ transcends denominational divides. The Salvation Army’s DNA is deeply evangelistic, and the congress resonated with our commitment to being ‘saved to save’. Yet Lausanne was also a reminder that evangelism is not a solitary pursuit: it flourishes when the Church stands united in purpose and action. A key takeaway from the Urban Mission specialism that I attended was that ‘the magnitude of impact the church can have on a city is directly proportional to the strength of relationships among the churches’.

One of the most striking aspects of the congress was its emphasis on a holistic mission. The gospel proclaimed at Lausanne was not one-dimensional. It recognised that word and deed are integral to each other, echoing The

Salvation Army’s own conviction that preaching and practical service go hand in hand. Examples shared at the congress demonstrated how churches can address poverty, advocate for justice, and care for the marginalised without losing sight of the central call to proclaim Christ. It reinforced the idea that evangelism is most effective when accompanied by visible expressions of God’s love and that social action is most faithful when the good news of Jesus is proclaimed.

The congress also highlighted the urgency of evangelism in a changing world. Delegates spoke of trends of increasing secularisation, rising hostility to Christian values, and the challenges of cultural fragmentation. Yet the response was not one of defensiveness, fear or isolation, but of boldness and collaboration. As Salvationists, this resonates with our ethos as a Movement willing to adapt and innovate, often stepping into spaces others overlook.

For me personally, the congress was a reminder of the richness that comes from engaging with voices outside my own tradition. Conversations with believers from vastly different contexts – my table included people from Singapore, Kenya, Tanzania and the USA – brought new perspectives, fresh insights and renewed energy for the task of evangelisation. It reinforced the importance of humility and openness

in ecumenical partnerships to proclaim the gospel – values that are essential for working together as the body of Christ. Equally, it reinforced my conviction that a confident Salvationist perspective is a gift to the wider Church and world.

Lausanne serves as both inspiration and challenge. It encourages Salvationists to seek intentional opportunities for joint prayer, shared worship services and collaborative outreach efforts with other churches in our communities. It reminds us that unity is not uniformity but a shared commitment to Christ’s mission. The more we work together, the better we can reach the world through different expressions of the same gospel.

The congress ended not with a sense of closure but with a commissioning: a call to return to our communities as ambassadors of reconciliation, evangelists of hope, and servants of the gospel. For Salvationists, that means being confident in our unique calling within the wider Church, working alongside others to proclaim the good news in word and action. As we do, we stand on the promise of Christ’s prayer in John 17:21, ‘that all of them may be one ... so that the world may believe’.

CAPTAIN JOHN CLIFTON Corps Officer Blackpool

Belfast Citadel engages young and old in making paper candles and other craft activities

BIRMINGHAM CITADEL The corps carol concert at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire’s Bradshaw Hall featured more than 120 performers and was led by Dean Heeley and corps officers Majors Ian and Keely Standley. Items were presented by African Praise, a dance group, timbrelists, the primary, the senior and young people’s bands and the singing company and songsters. A collection was taken for the Be a Star! Christmas appeal. – RO

ABERTILLERY Children who attend Thursday Allsorts presented a Nativity story dressed as angels, wise men, shepherds and more. ‘Joseph’ played his part impeccably, but one wise man took exception to the life-size snowman and gave it a hard time! – AB

BRISTON Sheringham Timbrelists led a wonderful Sunday afternoon meeting with carols chosen by corps folks. They performed to ‘Christmas Joy’ and to ‘Christmas Praise’. Readings brought blessings and all songsters and singers present sang ‘A Starry Night’ (SASB 112). – MR

CIRENCESTER A manger scene silhouette was installed in the hall window for the Christmas period. Junior soldiers Monty and Maxwell helped plan and took part in the toy service. Corps officer Major Bryan Lang led a carol service at the Church of Christ the King Eastington, where Corps Mission Secretary Corinne Walters led activities for young people. The band provided music for a Christmas festival in Coln Saint Aldwyns and a carol service at St Lawrence Church. Despite Storm Darragh, the band carolled in Tetbury and at the lighting of the indoor model village displays, celebrating 25 years of collecting for local charities. – MG

READING CENTRAL A well-attended carol concert included music from the combined corps band and Central South Fellowship Band and local Sing for Fun choir, with Andrew Wileman (Winton) compèring. It was a great start to Christmas and raised £2,000 for the community fund. – CC

CATERHAM A great team from the corps and community supported the Christmas appeal. Manilva Contracts, Croudace Homes and NHS First Community Health and Care donated gifts and volunteers. Caterham Rotary collected from local businesses. COG Lions and Caterham Foodbank fundraised and made up boxes. Toys were collected through Oakhyrst Grange, Essendene Lodge, Caterham and Hillcroft Schools, St John’s Church, St Paul’s Church and Godstone Women’s Institute. The Westway Community Centre, Tesco, Morrisons and Nothing but Floors all hosted collection points. – AF

CHRISTMAS

ROCK FERRY The band played for a short carol service at Liverpool Women’s NHS Trust for families who have suffered the loss of a little one. Families and staff at the hospital really appreciated the band’s ministry. – SW

CHRISTMAS

TUNBRIDGE WELLS The band’s carol service in The Pantiles encouraged passers-by to sing along and listen to the Christmas story. At the hall, a festival of Nativities saw members bring their own Nativity sets to create an exhibition. The building was also packed for the Sparkles family church’s carol service, which included a Nativity performance. Members of the Chantelle Poole School of Dance delighted everyone, supported by the sections. Corps-Stargeant-Major Robert Banks shared a Christmas story and the familes went home with copies. – GS

LEEDS CENTRAL BW Legal’s employee Christmas market raised £5,210 for The Salvation Army. The songsters sang carols during the event and a great time was had by all. – LC

CANTERBURY The corps community Christmas concert featured children from Wincheap Foundation Primary School, actor Thelma Barlow, the lord mayor Councillor Jean Butcher, the lady mayoress Di Baldock and Father Christmas. The great event was filled with music from the band, songsters, First Things First junior band and a young people’s Nativity. – KC

SALISBURY Around 90 people enjoyed free family fun, including face painting, crafts, games and food organised by corps members. Twelve of those who attended the event came to the carol service and joined in a pop-up Nativity! – MD

BRIGHTON CONGRESS HALL With help from Worthing and Hove Bands, the band played carols at the American Express Stadium for Brighton and Hove Albion FC’s last fixture of 2024. There was lots of appreciation from fans and one young person asked to conduct a carol. – BW

carol service

BATLEY Oscar donated about 600 gifts to the corps present appeal. With help from family, friends, customers of his parents’ business and people from school, he has gifted more than 1,000 presents in recent years. His mum, Emma, said: ‘I can’t comprehend what he’s achieved. It’s a community effort. Oscar initiated it, but it’s the people going out of their way who make the difference.’ – AR

The Christmas story is joyfully retold at the Exmouth Corps community carol service

Ipswich Citadel corps officer Major Andrew Jarrold and the band lead Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre’s popular annual community

BURNLEY The SATCoL donation centre hosted the third annual shoppers carol service. Shoppers, staff and volunteers joined corps members to celebrate with carols and an impromptu Nativity. The corps pianist played carols in store over three further days. – LK

members

dinner

ESTON More than 30 people came to a Messy Church carol service by candlelight. Every child decorated tealight holders and sang their heart out. The group celebrated together as one family, sharing food and remembering the true meaning of Christmas. The corps organises Messy Church regularly and it has grown to become part of the church family – for many who attend Messy Church, this is their church. Thanks to the children’s team who made this event a success. The corps prays that seeds are being sown and will flourish. – LT

LIVERPOOL STONEYCROFT A corps panto, titled Alice in Winterland, raised £275. Rehearsals began in September and the cast played to two packed halls of around 50 people. A huge thanks to corps member Trish Roberts and her husband, Billy, who directed the performances. – ST

WESTMINSTER An ensemble from the Music and Creative Arts team and Regent Hall supported the Judicial Office Choir at a carol service at the Royal Courts of Justice. Rhoda Atkinson (Croydon Citadel) sang ‘A Christmas Lullaby’ and readings were brought by Baroness Sue Carr, Sir Julian Flaux and Sir Andrew McFarlane. More than £600 was raised for Alzheimer’s Society and the Army. – RA

BECCLES The corps welcomed families into a transformed hall to experience a Nativity escape room. They also welcomed 27 pupils from a local primary school. Contestants were invited to discover truths from the Bible about Jesus’ birth, answering questions and using ciphers, Morse code and cryptograms to crack the puzzle. Thanks to the many helpers who made it such a success. – LK

70 Cameo

enjoy Christmas

at Stowmarket after a carol service and visit from Father Christmas

Woodhouse kids’ club members receive Bibles and perform a song with sign language during the corps Christingle service

FELIXSTOWE The corps Christmas Tree Festival attracted a record number of trees, with 50 charities and organisations exhibiting. Opened by the mayor, Councillor David Rowe, the five-day event attracted up to 1,500 visitors. – DA

CHRISTMAS

BRISTOL EASTON The senior band, brass learners, singing company and songsters each performed at the carol service, before the congregation enjoyed a Nativity starring the children and young people. It was a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. – LS

Chatteris Corps Sergeant-Major Anese Tomkinson gives managers from Barnardo’s more than 900 toys donated from schools, businesses and the public

STAPLE HILL The corps joined St Peter’s Hospice for a service commemorating loved ones. Throughout the season, the corps were challenged to take the Christmas message to their front lines. Some arranged band members to play at their place of work or recreation. The community strongly supported two further carol services, and more than 2,000 gifts were distributed to over 700 children. More than 1,000 people braved the wind for Carols in the Square. – VW

SOUTHPORT The band attended three light switch-on events. A children’s carol concert – with more than 30 members of the toddler group, Dance Fit Kids, Brass Roots learners and Kids Choir taking part – was followed by two community carol services. The band visited events in Ormskirk and Formby and at HMP Wymott. It also took part in engagements around Southport, including in one garden where more than 40 residents enjoyed a good sing! The Christmas Present Appeal enabled the corps to provide 360 presents to families, and a Warm Welcome space was provided to 54 individuals. – PW

CIRENCESTER The family carol service included Bible readings and contributions from the band learners and songsters, leading into a Strictly Come Christmas Nativity by the Gap Sunday club. On Christmas Eve, the band played in streets around the town before a candlelit service leading into Christmas Day. – MG

LINCOLN Among the various carolling events that the band undertook this year, it was privileged to be asked to play at RAF Digby’s first Christmas market. The evening ended with the switch on of the Christmas lights that adorned the Spitfire memorial. – AW

HASTINGS CITADEL Hastings Lions Club supported the lunch club and Cameo Christmas meal and carol service. The corps also hosted a carol service at a local care home, with additional Christmas hospital visiting. A Christmas meal and party for a mother-and-baby unit was supported by Employment Plus, and the corps hosted a carol service for those who live in and around the corps building. – DH

Soldiers and friends of Leighton Buzzard Corps bring their Nativity sets to create a visual representation of the Christmas story for the carol service

A Nativity window designed by Edinburgh City Corps SergeantMajor Iain Wilson and painted by members of the corps displays the Christmas story

Band and Songsters lead a packed carol service at St Michael’s Church in

CHRISTMAS

BATH CITADEL The young people told the Christmas story throughout a united carol service. The singing group sang ‘See, Amid the Winter’s Snow’, the Sunday school belted out ‘Love Shone Down’, the band brought ‘The Bell Ringer’, and the timbrelists – aged from 1 to 60-plus! – accompanied ‘A Starry Night’. The service ended with carols by candlelight. – SL

STORNOWAY Shona Shields and her team of volunteers created a beautiful float that won first runner-up in the Christmas lights parade. It focused on the true meaning of Christmas, with a full illuminated Nativity scene while playing ‘Silent Night’. A huge well done to the team for their hard work! – FT

CLOWNE Some members of the band visited Amberley House nursing home on Christmas Day. This annual visit has happened for more than 44 years in the home’s various locations over that time. – GH

DARLASTON A capacity audience attended the annual Christmas with The Salvation Army carol service at the town hall. The Army-led community choir brought five songs, and friends from neighbouring corps supported a composite band. Soloists included Geoff Ward (vocal), Zac HightonNicholls (vocal and piano) and Jonathan Dixon (Birmingham Citadel, cornet). The evening also included a comedy Nativity sketch by O’tega Esekobe, corps leader Territorial Envoy Lee Highton-Nicholls and Divisional Children’s Worker Claire Highton-Nicholls. – LH-N

EDMONTON Coffee, Cake and Chat, an initiative started in 2022 in conjunction with Warm Welcome, held its annual Christmas meal. Pictured with Father Christmas are Majors Sandra and Alan Ford along with Glenys Hill (Enfield). – GR

CIRENCESTER The Haven drop-in welcomes visitors for chat and refreshments. Roz Savage MP visited to hear about Christmas outreach. Of particular interest was how the corps worked with 11 agencies to distribute 362 toy parcels to 174 families. – KC

BRIEF UPDATES

PENARTH The band held two carol services, one in the Italian Gardens – where there were more than 50 people – and the other in Ivy Street, where residents gathered to sing. Father Christmas appeared with presents for the children. It was good to see so many out supporting the event despite the rain. – CP

SLEAFORD A family service included making Christingles and the opportunity to bring toys for the Be A Star! appeal. Volunteers from Interflora headquarters joined corps members in sorting and packing the toys for more than 30 families identified by local support agencies. – NM

DENNISTOUN Corps officer Captain Amy-Jo Battersby and helpers organised a community family day and Christmas party. It was well attended and everyone enjoyed a lovely morning. To the delight of the children, there was even a visit from Santa! – AD

ESSEX Barclays donated 460 toys to present appeals at Basildon, Colchester and Harlow. Major Luis Viriato (Colchester Citadel) said: ‘Most people have found this year more difficult financially, so your gifts have been truly welcome.’ – AR

CIRENCESTER The band provided music for events in Crudwell, Tetbury and Kempsford, including Churches Together carol singing and assisting Swindon Citadel Band at a Swindon Town FC match. When they braved wind and rain in the marketplace, one cap flew off and wedged itself in the Christmas tree, from where it was eventually retrieved. – MG

MIDDLESBROUGH The corps served 74 Christmas dinners to drop-in clients and provided gifts for 1,330 children. – NK

LEIGH-ON-SEA Advent featured a gift Sunday, a reflection on peace, a modern slant on an Advent calendar with the young people taking part, and the corps carol service. The usual carolling programme included visits to schools and care homes. – PJ

Sleaford

Billinghay

FELIXSTOWE Band members provided live interludes at BBC Radio Suffolk studios alongside Rick Wakeman. BBC Look East filmed Christmas Day preparations on Christmas Eve, interviewing volunteer Gillian Cross and corps officer Captain Paul Williams. – DA

NORTH WALSHAM The corps distributed 250 toy parcels and 75 food parcels to families in need. A free community brunch attracted more than 89 people. A candlelight carol service included the newest baby in the corps taking the role of Jesus and featured the first public performance of the young brass group. The service was signed in British Sign Language for the regular members who attend the corps deaf café. – JB

SHERINGHAM The town’s Christmas lights were switched on as the band accompanied carols. Local businesses and corps community groups took part in a Christmas tree festival by decorating trees to reflect their trade. Some people attended the carol services for the first time in many years. – MG

CARDIFF CANTON In the final week of Advent, the young people presented the Extra Special Nativity awards. The script was written by junior soldier Ezequiel and added a drop of glitz, glamour and humour to the Nativity story. – AW

YORK The corps held a Christmas Messy Café Church, bringing together the regular congregation with the Messy Church families. Eighty people enjoyed carols, crafts and the Nativity story before sharing a meal. On the Sunday before Christmas, the corps shared Carols on the Green, playing to the community outside the school where they meet for worship. A number who attended Christmas Messy Church came along. The emergency vehicle from DHQ was in attendance and hot chocolate with marshmallows and mince pies were served. Please join with the corps as they pray for God to surprise everyone in the days to come as he did a long time ago in Bethlehem. – DA

The

Volunteers made about 55 meals for people experiencing loneliness

mayor and mayoress

time with those who came and waited on tables. – DG

MAIDSTONE A Prelude to Christmas concert featured the songsters and South London Fellowship Band. In December the songsters invited everybody to visit their practice and ponder the Christmas story in a carols by candlelight service. The Music Man Project concert, with the band, was held two days later. The participants exuded such joy that no one could leave feeling anything but happy! At the young people’s carol service, Mary (Scarlett) and Joseph (Leo) sweetly sang the first verse of ‘Away in a Manger’. At the community carol service, Songster Leader Victoria Yalden sang ‘Gabriel’s Message’. Most moving was the mimed presentation of an angel bringing a globe of light to Mary and exchanging it for her baby, while ‘What a Beautiful Name It Is’ was sung. People gathered on Christmas Day to celebrate and reflect on moving forward into the new year with God. Christmastime was made even more special when Ava was born to corps officers Lieutenants Beth and Dave Perkins. – GP

CHRISTMAS

LOUTH

on Christmas Day.

deputy

spent

CHRISTMAS

PRESTON The band supported the Lancashire Christian Police Association annual carol service. Pictured are Divisional Commander Major David Taylor, Lancashire Chief Constable Sacha Hatchett and Churches Together in Lancashire’s county ecumenical officer, the Rev Anton Müller. – TC

CLOWNE A busy, exciting Messy Christmas included making candy cane mice, Advent candle window decorations, reindeer hot chocolate, marshmallow pop angels, pony bead gift tags and Christingles. A highlight was a collage of houses with shafts of light prayers to bring neighbours and friends closer to Jesus. A singing mouse joined the regular puppets, and glowstick prayers, a buffet tea and reflection time concluded activities. – GH

A capacity crowd enjoyed the carol concert, which included an Abba Nativity singalong. The audience became the host of angels, shepherds and wise men. Everyone entered into the spirit and the singing was amazing, with the band and songsters resurrected for the evening of wonderful Christmas music. – RR

CHATTERIS A reverse food Advent calendar saw corps members collecting food each day to donate at the end of the month. More than 600 items were given to the Trussell Trust food bank. – IT

WATCHET The corps worked very hard over Christmas, wrapping toys and food to give out to the community. Poppy raised funds by herself and went shopping to buy presents for children who would have very little. She shared her love further by baking a cake for the helpers. The corps gave out more than 1,000 toys and 30 older people’s hampers along with bags. What a supportive community we have! – SS

YORK There was no room that first Christmas, but that did not stop the story. The corps has no room, no officer and no permanent building at present, but this did not stop us spreading the Christmas message with the community. Soldiers, adherents and friends collaborated with other agencies to meet the needs of families across the city. In total, about 400 families and 1,200 children were referred to the corps and 3,500 presents distributed. One family summed up the challenge this Christmas: ‘For the first time ever we find ourselves in a position where we cannot give anything to our children. You have rescued Christmas for us! Thank you so much!’ – DA

BROMLEY TEMPLE The corps took Messy Christmas to the high street. The youth group served hot chocolates to passers-by as youth leaders engaged families in crafts. At an evening carol concert, café regulars, those who attend weekly programmes, and young families delighted in activities and the senior and junior sections – including the community choir – presented uplifting music. – JK

BRIEF UPDATES

WORTHING Volunteers put together 260 Christmas parcels for people in need. – DS

LEIGH-ON-SEA The corps midweek activities, including its preschool, joined together for a carol service, supported by members of the band. Several people participated, including songs sung by the preschool. Afterwards, everyone joined together for refreshments. – RD/CD

CLOWNE Thirty young people enjoyed a pizza party to conclude the first term of the new youth club. Each participant was invited to the Advent services and received a Christmas selection box. – GH

CLOWNE As part of the Advent season, a memory service invited people to place heart messages on a tree to recognise loved ones who had died. More than 60 people attended the beautifully constructed service. – GH

UK The Army teamed up with the Dogs Trust to provide festive hampers to pets at 25 Lifehouses. – AR

PERTH Fantastic helpers from the Caledonia Housing Association and the Peter Vardy Foundation assisted corps volunteers with the Christmas gift appeal, collating donations in record time! – GA

EDMONTON Those who attended a Christmas afternoon tea enjoyed copious sandwiches, cakes and beverages while raising funds for the Christmas appeal. – GR

ENFIELD The band and songsters, young people’s band, singing company and parents and toddlers from Shining Stars took part in the community carol service. A full hall enjoyed readings, reflections, and a xylophone duet by Bandmaster Chris and his daughter, Summer. – GR

FILEY The band assisted at Filey Infant School by accompanying two Nativity plays and an assembly where the teachers took up an invitation to play timbrels to ‘Jingle Bells’. Other carolling included leading community singing around a village Christmas tree, a visit to Filey Fields Court and joining Churches Together for town centre carols. – GM

FAULDHOUSE

Wedding anniversaries

Blue Sapphire (65 years)

JOHN AND MARIAN GOSLING, Penzance, on 16 January

Promoted to Glory

NICHOLAS PIPER, Leicester South

BANDSMAN IAN HENDRY, Stockton

HELEN MACKAY, Bicester, on 21 December 2024

MAJOR ROBERT BOYD from University Hospital Monklands, Airdrie, on 24 December 2024

RETIRED YOUNG PEOPLE’S

BAND LEADER WILLIAM GRAY, Glenrothes, on 26 December 2024

MAJOR DENNIS WISBEY from Greycliffe Manor nursing home, Torquay, on 26 December 2024

MAJOR MARGARET TAYLOR from Deepdene Care Centre, Dorking, on 5 January

DAVID WESTON, Redditch, on 5 January

Bereaved

JACQUELINE PIPER, Leicester South, of her son Nicholas Piper, Andrew Piper, Leicester South, of his brother

PETER MACKAY and Michael

MACKAY, both Bicester, of their mother Helen MacKay

MAJOR HELENA BOYD of her husband Major Robert Boyd

LEANNE ASH, Glenrothes, of her father Retired Young People’s Band Leader William Gray

ALISON SWEET, Torquay, of her father Major Dennis Wisbey

DAPHNE WESTON, Redditch, of her husband David Weston, Captain Richard Weston, West Midlands DHQ, Matthew Weston of their father

Retirements from active service

Effective 1 January

MAJOR STUART MCPHEE out of Bourne in 2009 and last appointment Bourne

CAPTAIN AMANDA SMETHURST out of Cheltenham in 2011 and last appointment Shildon

MAJOR CONNY VOGLER out of Krefeld, Germany, in 1990 and last appointment Burton-on-Trent

ICO delegates

The 260th session began on 15 January

CAPTAIN BRAD MCIVER, Australia

CAPTAIN FLEUR HODGE, Australia

MAJOR JAMES LOCKE, Canada and Bermuda

MAJOR LEVI GIVERSEN, Denmark and Greenland

MAJOR ADRIAN ROMAN, Eastern Europe

MAJOR EMELIA ASANTE APPIAH, Ghana

CAPTAIN JOYCE LEE NOI-YAN LAM, Hong Kong and Macau

CAPTAIN SEKHARR VASUMALLI, India Central

MAJOR LALRINPUIA KHALTHANG, India Eastern

MAJOR ROSY LALNUNPUII, India Eastern

MAJOR GRACE SHAKILA SAMRAJ, India South Eastern

CAPTAIN REJI MANGALATHU

VADAKKETHIL, India South Western

MAJOR IBRAHIM NJIRU, Kenya East

MAJOR LENARD NDONGA, Kenya East

CAPTAIN POLLYNE ELACHI, Kenya West

MAJOR SOKJAE IM, Korea

CAPTAIN RUTH BOYAH, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea

CAPTAIN FAYE LEONA MAURIA MOLEN, New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa

CAPTAIN JOHN RAGA, Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands

CAPTAIN NILANTHI SIYAMAKRISNAN, Sri Lanka

MAJOR ANDERS BEIJER, Sweden and Latvia

CAPTAIN ADELIGHT OKIRU, Uganda

MAJOR CAROLINE HEWARD, United Kingdom and Ireland

CAPTAIN JOHN CLIFTON, United Kingdom and Ireland

MAJOR TREVOR MCCLINTOCK, USA Central

MAJOR VALERIE CARR, USA Central

MAJOR JESSICA DEMICHAEL, USA Eastern

MAJOR DANIEL NELSON, USA Southern

CAPTAIN JERVONNE HINTON, USA Southern

CAPTAIN JENNIFER SWAIN, USA Western

CAPTAIN RUSSELL HAMUZEMBO, Zambia

MAJOR ELVIS CHIMOMBE, Zimbabwe and Botswana

ENGAGEMENTS

General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries

Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham Tue 21 Jan – Sat 25 Jan

USA (retirement of national leaders)

Territorial Leaders Commissioners

Jenine and Paul Main

Sun 19 Jan Kidsgrove (retirement of Majors Ruth and Tim Dykes)

Sat 25 Jan – Sun 26 Jan Dunstable (140th corps anniversary)

Mon 27 Jan William Booth College (Into Officership seminar)

Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest Sat 18 Jan Regent Hall (Sing in the New Year)

NOTICES

Community Services survey Corps and community settings are invited to report the ongoing need in their communities and their response to that need by contributing to the online Christmas 2024 activities survey. Please only provide one response per setting to avoid duplicate entries. The survey is available at surveymonkey. com/r/TSAChristmas2024 and closes on 7 February. Email any queries to communityservices@salvationarmy.org.uk

SOUNDS

Sunday Worship

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

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/ radio

Me and My Playlist

This Salvationist Radio show sees a young person linked to The Salvation Army share five tracks they love. Listen to the podcast and Spotify playlist. • Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/ podcasts

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MAIDENHEAD CORPS, EAST ROAD SL6 1PJ UNA VOCE CONCERT

Saturday 1 February, 7pm

Tickets (£5 adults) available at ticketsource.co.uk/maidenheadsalvation-army or on the door

Tickets available at ticketsource. co.uk/maidenhead-salvationarmy or (if available) on the door

All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and carried at the editor’s discretion.

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MILLOM FORTRESS, NELSON STREET LA18 4DW

All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk

MILLOM FORTRESS, NELSON STREET LA18 4DW VALEDICTORY MEETING FOR MILLOM CORPS

VALEDICTORY MEETING FOR MILLOM CORPS

Sunday 9 February, 3pm

Led by Major David Ryder, followed by a buffet tea

All former officers, soldiers, adherents and friends are invited to attend or send a message. For catering purposes, please notify millom@salvationarmy.org.uk if you are able to attend.

SHERINGHAM CORPS, CREMER STREET NR26 8DZ

• Community engagement

• Corporate worship

THE INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND IN CONCERT

• Sport and wellbeing salvationist.org.uk/resources

Saturday 25 January, 7pm

Tickets: £10 and £5 (under-18s)

SHERINGHAM CORPS, CREMER STREET, SHERINGHAM NR26 8DZ

Christmas greetings from retired officers

Salvationist apologises for the delayed publication of these greetings, and wishes all retired officers a blessed new year.

Blessings at Christmas and throughout the new year to all my friends.

Major Christine Marriott

The angels sang for him. Shall we find the stable room lit by a star? Yes, WE have! Hallelujah! Majors David and Sandra Dalziel

THE INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND IN CONCERT

Available from ticketsource.co.uk/the-salvation-army-sheringham the hall reception: 01263 826059 or the charity shop on Church Street

Enquiries to muriel.garman@salvationarmy.org.uk

Sunday 26 January

Saturday 25 January, 7pm

Worship at 11am and afternoon festival at 2pm

Tickets: £10 and £5 (under-18s)

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ADVERTISING RATES

• Community engagement

All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and carried at the editor’s discretion. For more details email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk • Community engagement

The editor is responsible for overseeing its production, ensuring its accuracy, timeliness and adherence to house style. This role requires a combination of editorial expertise, knowledge of The Salvation Army and strong organisational skills. The editor will be involved in all aspects of production, from commissioning and creating content, editing, layout and taking in corrections, to selecting photos, securing orders and organising distribution.

The successful candidate will have:

• Written English to a high standard of accuracy

• Basic knowledge of Salvation Army theology, principles, terminology and practice

• Basic knowledge of the Army’s organisational structure

Working hours 35 hours per week

Contract

Permanent

Details

• Corporate worship

Corporate worship

• Sport and wellbeing salvationist.org.uk/resources

Sport and wellbeing salvationist.org.uk/resources

ADVERTISING

Quarter

ALL PRICES EXCLUDE VAT

ADVERTISING RATES

• Extensive experience in writing, proofreading and structural editing

Launch weekend with Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main

• Experience working in a publishing environment

• Experience with Microsoft applications (Word, Excel, etc)

• Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud applications (InDesign, Acrobat, etc)

• Effective time management skills and self-motivation

Contributory pension scheme; generous travel to work allowance; 25 days’ annual leave plus 8 bank holidays per annum; café discount.

Half

TYPE SIZE 1 ISSUE 3 ISSUES

Full back page

Classified listing Up to 25 words £9 £20

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

Classified listing Up to 50 words £18 £40

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

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

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

£35 £85

£65 £170

Quarter page 89mm x 127mm £170 £440

Saturday 25 January, 6.30pm Celebration Festival with Staines Songsters

Sunday 26 January, 11am & 2.30pm led by Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main

Saturday 25 January, 6.30pm Celebration Festival with Staines Songsters Sunday 26 January, 11am & 2.30pm led by Commissioners Jenine

Closing date Fri 24 January

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Monday 17 –

• A BA in English language/literature or significant relevant experience

Applicants must be in sympathy with the aims and objectives of The Salvation Army.

Interviews held Tue 4 February