Salvationist 1 October 2022

GLYN WISE AND TEAM SALLY ARMY

ENERGY: EX-SOLDIER ‘I WILL HAVE TO TURN THE POWER OFF’

An ex-soldier has said he is worried about how he will keep warm this winter, as people grapple with high energy prices.

Graham Jull, 66, from Salisbury, who cares for his partner, said he would have to start turning the power off…

Mr Jull, who served as a bandsman in the British Army for 12 years, said he was appalled by the way he had been treated by a country that he had given ‘so much of myself to’.

He said: ‘I’m most worried about keeping warm and if the prices go up in the shop – I’m already using the food bank’ …

Mr Jull said he uses a pre-paid meter and tops it up by £10 every two days.

He said most of his pension, which is between £700 and £800 a month, is spent on his rent, which is £600.

‘That leaves me with £200 to last a month,’ he added.

Mr Jull said [that] as the winter approaches, he … will ‘have to find alternative ways’ of surviving…

A spokesperson from the Department for Work and Pensions said they ‘recognise that people are struggling with rising prices’ and they ‘are protecting millions of the most vulnerable people with at least £1,200 of direct payments, starting with the £326 cost of living payment’ which they said ‘has already been issued to more than seven million low income households’.

BBC

NEW HYMN ‘TEARS AND CELEBRATION’ RELEASED IN TRIBUTE TO ELIZABETH II

Charities LICC and Bible Society are releasing a poignant hymn of remembrance, assurance and thanksgiving, featuring world-renowned mezzo-soprano Katherine Jenkins…

‘Tears and Celebration’ is new hymn for the UK and Commonwealth… It is a song ... giving voice to the hearts and minds of people all over the world...

The words were written by Andy [Flannagan], member of Park Church in Luton … aided by Sam Hargreaves, to the well-known tune of ‘Dim Ond Iesu’…

‘For any of us, the death of a loved one often ushers in a time of questioning and instability,’ said Andy. ‘I felt this would be the same for our nation following the Queen’s passing, so wanted to write something to help folks process and pray.’

Baptist Times

KING PLEDGES TO PROTECT ALL FAITHS

The King … sees it as his duty to protect the place of different faiths in the nation.

Speaking at a reception for religious leaders in Buckingham Palace … he said… ‘The Sovereign has an additional duty … to protect the diversity of our country, including by protecting the space for faith itself and its practice through the religions, cultures, traditions and beliefs to which our hearts and minds direct us as individuals’…

The King’s remarks echo those made by the late Queen… She said that the established Church had a duty ‘not to defend Anglicanism to the exclusion of other religions’, but ‘to protect the free practice of all faiths in this country’.

Church Times

CHURCH LEADERS SPEAK OF ‘DESPERATE’ NEED IN PAKISTAN AS FLOODS RAVAGE THE COUNTRY

Pakistan church leaders have said the government is doing very little in response to the flooding crisis and have renewed their urgent appeals to help the millions affected by the catastrophe.

Over a third of the country is completely submerged with millions of people displaced and [experiencing] homelessness while diseases are also spreading.

Dr Masqood Kamil, a member of Christian charity Pak Mission Society, [said:] ‘A monsoon is nothing new in Pakistan, it is every year’s phenomena, we have had floods every year, but this is the worst ever we have had…’

‘There are no schools left, no clinics left, people are just sitting on the roadside without any food, water or shelter’…

Local bishops have … gone on to thank charities including Aid to the Church in Need, which earlier this month rushed through a package of food, medicine and shelter for more than 5,000 families.

Premier

Different people: one aim

THERE’S a passage of writing that, I’m sure, many of you have either seen or heard before that lists a whole range of people from the Bible and how God used them despite their weaknesses or life situations. For example, ‘Noah was a drunk; Abraham was old; Gideon was afraid; David was an adulterer; Jonah ran away from God; Job went bankrupt; Peter denied Jesus’, and so on. I love the way the passage ends: ‘… and Lazarus was dead!’

It’s undeniable that the Bible is full of a vast array of characters – from prostitutes and lepers to teachers and kings – who were used by God in powerful ways. They serve as a reminder that God can and still does use all manner of people for his purposes.

As I read through this issue of Salvationist, I am touched by the variety of people and stories on offer. It shows us something of the breadth and reach of the gospel across the UKI Territory.

On page 9, Malcolm Dragon talks about vegetarianism and its early Army links, and he promotes both vegetarianism and veganism – with good support from the Founders!

On pages 10 and 11, celebrity Glyn Wise talks about his love of running – and God – and his preparations to run for The Salvation Army in the London Marathon this weekend.

Glyn says: ‘When I was in Camden, we used to work with The Salvation Army and I saw all the excellent work that they do, especially with people experiencing homelessness. The Salvation Army’s work follows the guidelines of what Jesus Christ was asking us to do: go out there and help others and treat your neighbour as you want others to treat you… That’s why I asked if I could run for them.’

The next pages carry an article on African Praise Fellowship Zimbabwe. Organising Secretary Cloud Tembo tells us of the formation of the Fellowship and how it operates, and of its official recognition as a UKI Territory fellowship at Together 2022 in July in Birmingham.

Slightly northwest of there, we read of community building across Merseyside as The Salvation Army actively, and optimistically, looks to build community spirit after some recent tragic events. It’s a report that indicates there are good things happening in the area and The Salvation Army is at the forefront of that activity.

Later, on pages 18 and 19, Andrew Wileman writes of the value of older generations of Christians and how they add to our ministry and faith experience. He includes several ways older people positively impact our mission, while also noting the value of younger people in our Army. Andrew writes: ‘The mingling of youthful zeal and the wisdom of older saints is part of the point of God’s multigenerational Church. However, when all generations are present, we must acknowledge that all perspectives are necessary to truly be the Army that God has commissioned to reach and love the world.’

From a celebrity runner to an African praise fellowship, from advice on vegetarianism to an encouraging reminder of the value of Salvationist seniors – such a mix of people!

Real people, with real faults and flaws, and real stories of living out their faith, ‘all seeking’ (to quote the song) ‘the same Saviour’.

I pray that you, with your own story and your own faith journey, find some encouragement in these pages and a real sense of optimism for how the Army is seeking to help people find fullness of life with Jesus. We’re different people, but with one aim in mind.

CONTENTS

Quotes from the media 2

News 4 to 8

Prayer matters 8

Viewpoint 9 Suitable for vegetarians? by Malcolm Dragon

Interview 10 and 11

Running on a prayer Glyn Wise talks to Simon Hope

Feature 12 and 13 Introducing... African Praise Fellowship Zimbabwe by Cloud Tembo

News feature 14 Army spreads community spirit by Luisa Dawe

Feature 15 Strawberry Field: 3 years on by Major Kathy Versfeld

Bible study 16 and 17 Following the Father’s lead by Lieutenant Nathan Loxley

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17 by Major Melvyn Knott

Reflection 18 and 19

What are old people for? by Andrew Wileman

Preview 20 #WeAreNotforSale

New commitments 21

Announcements 22

Adverts 23

The Salvation Army and me 24 featuring Liz Eckersley

MAJOR MAL DAVIES Editor Salvationist

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS

Scripture quotations are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated

REMEMBRANCE

Historic photo of Queen unearthed PETERBOROUGH CITADEL

A PHOTOGRAPH of Queen Elizabeth II was discovered in a donation of books at the corps charity shop.

The picture, taken by royal photographer Dorothy Wilding in April 1952, quickly occupied pride of place at the front of the store following the Queen’s death.

The shop’s manager, Philippa Millard, said staff were delighted with their unexpected find and were keen to find out more about the photo, which was part of a series used for currency and stamps.

Philippa said: ‘I’m told it’s worth about £150 – but to us it’s priceless. It’s such a beautiful photograph showing her at the start of her reign, and it’s such an honour for us to have it. The memories will stay with us for ever.’ – TG

CIRENCESTER A room was set out for prayer and reflection during the English Heritage Open Days Weekend, which was close to the death of Queen Elizabeth II. The prayer room has remained in use since. – MG

Salvationist wants to hear your news

Corps press representatives can email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

Good quality pictures may be included.

REMEMBRANCE

Mayor’s Chaplain Major Ian Payne (Chatham) signs Medway council’s book of condolence before leading prayers for Queen Elizabeth II and the royal family

Mayor’s Chaplain Major Matt Butler (Bognor Regis) leads the town in prayers, before Mayor John Barrett reads the proclamation of King Charles III

STAPLE HILL Corps officer Major Colin Hylton-Jones led an openair service and time of reflection in the town shopping area, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Attended by local government and Royal British Legion representatives, many came to share in the prayer and readings. The service concluded with music from the band. – VW

EVENT

EVENT

REMEMBRANCE

OUTREACH

WIMBLEDON Corps folk celebrated their move to Crown Lane in Morden at the Discovery Day exhibition, which attracted over 1,500 visitors. The corps stand featured photos by corps member Mark Grassham who had assembled a unique collection of photographs of the late Queen Elizabeth II between 1990 and 2018. Issues of War Cry and Kids Alive! also attracted many visitors to the stand, with Wandle, a local Womble and the mascot for AFC Wimbledon, recruited to distribute copies of the comic. – RS

Members of Felixstowe Band play the national anthem at the town’s proclamation of succession

The band played at a remembrance service for Queen Elizabeth II and a 1,000 Tongues event organised by St Mark’s Church. The time of reflection included some of the Queen’s favourite hymns and the national anthem. It was followed by a time of worship, in which the band led several hymns. – RF

Gloucester Band resumes its regular engagements at St Peter’s Church, accompanying hymns for an enthusiastic congregation

MUSIC

Chatteris Bandsman Ivor Tomkinson plays the national anthem at the town’s proclamation of succession

A remembrance card made by Cirencester Corps Brownies is displayed in St John the Baptist Church

MEETING

HOMELESSNESS

Army warns of rise in rough sleeping UK

THE Salvation Army has welcomed the government’s renewed commitment to tackling homelessness, but warns that it expects rough sleeping to increase.

Malcolm Page, assistant director of Homelessness Services, said: ‘Addiction support is a crucial part of helping many people move on from rough sleeping, so we are particularly encouraged to see some funding has been ring-fenced for that.

‘We welcome the plans to expand the Rough Sleeping Drug and Alcohol Treatment Grant, but we must be realistic about the challenges that we face.’

The Salvation Army is calling for a commitment that more than 50 per cent of future homelessness funding will be reserved specifically for support services.

‘Measures need to be put in place to make sure that the cost of living crisis does not lead to a homelessness crisis,’ Malcolm added. ‘We are standing ready to see rough sleeping increase.’ – AR

COMMUNITY

PRESENTATION

GLOUCESTER Bandsman Len Walker received his retirement certificate from corps officer Major Gareth Heward and Bandmaster Phil Webb in recognition of his 73 years of service in many places around the world. His retirement has been hastened after suffering a particularly debilitating illness two years ago. – AB

MEETING

READING CENTRAL More than 15,000 festivalgoers visited the corps Chill and Chat Café at Reading Festival. Volunteers from the corps and division served drinks and food and visitors appreciated the safe space to relax, recover and chat. A prayer corner created by DHQ staff provided an opportunity to stop and reflect. – BM

LEIGH-ON-SEA Corps officer Captain Clare Davis acknowledged all the young people starting or returning to school or university. They were presented with a small gift of a pencil case with their name on it, which included a prayer card. Thanks were also expressed to those adults from the corps involved in education at nearby schools. Several corps folk committed to contacting those at university on a regular basis to support them. – PJ

IPSWICH CITADEL The young people of the corps led congregational songs, prayers and Bible readings on YP Sunday. The singing group sang several times, including a final piece with the songsters, and junior soldier gold awards were presented to Zara and Isabella. Sunday school members were also presented with vouchers as prizes. Each member is supported by a prayer partner from the senior corps. These prayer partnerships were also celebrated as part of the meeting. – DC

HUDDERSFIELD The corps hosted two National Citizen Service groups of students, who engaged in community projects across the town. These included building an 80m pathway for the Canal River Trust, providing access to a popular nature reserve. Another project focused on repainting playground huts and goalposts at a school, as well as clearing a woodland area for pupils to enjoy outdoor activity education. Corps officer Major Adrian Lee said: ‘Plenty of energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the task in hand were shown by all the students. Working with them was one of the highlights of my summer.’ – AR

EVENT

COMMUNITY

CLITHEROE The corps held its first school uniform exchange in a bid to ease the financial pressures faced by many families. Featuring pre-loved and new items with tags, it was made possible thanks to the donations of local schools, businesses and members of the community. Sarah, a primary school teacher and mother of three, attended the uniform exchange to get items for them ahead of the new school year. She said: ‘It certainly takes the pressure off, which is what is needed right now.’ – AR

LIFEHOUSE

WITHAM LODGE An outdoor gym has been installed in the Lifehouse garden, including a sky stepper, cross trainer, rowing machine and pedal bicycle. The gym was funded by donations received at Christmas from a local business and a member of the public. Service Manager George Hockings said: ‘With the costs of gym membership unaffordable for many, this is a welcome addition to our services.’ – AR

OUTREACH

FARNWORTH The weekly Knit ’n’ Natter group created a range of toys for vulnerable children in other countries, including Ukraine. The group of 12 to 14 knitters has in the past knitted garments for maternity units, but decided this time to turn their needles to knitting toys instead. Corps member Joan Taylor started the group five years ago. She said: ‘It’s nice to make something for others, and knowing some of our creations go to such worthwhile causes feels very rewarding.’ – AR

EMERGENCY AID

UK The Army’s incident response vehicles were out in force during the recent heatwave, providing refreshments and emotional support to first responders. Salvationists in Dorset rallied in support of emergency services tackling a huge fire on Studland and Godlingston Heath. In Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, the vehicle responded to 10 call-outs over three weeks. In Suffolk, Salvationists supported more than 100 firefighters tackling a blaze in a 15-acre field. In Oldham, a vehicle was called to support emergency services dealing with the aftermath of a fire at a scrapyard. In Kent, Salvationists supported the county’s fire and rescue service tackling grass fires around the Dartford Heath area. – AR

INTERNATIONAL

Ipswich Citadel Band take part in Aldeburgh Carnival’s Songs of Praise

Ipswich Citadel Songsters lead an evening of music and worship at Chelmondiston Methodist Church

MUSIC

HUCKNALL The over-60 club, led by Divisional Envoy Colin Ward, celebrated its fourth birthday with 39 members. Because of Covid19 restrictions, the group was unable to celebrate its second and third anniversaries but was thrilled to celebrate this one together. – CW

MUSIC

DISS The band played a concert at St Mary’s Church and raised more than £1,000 for the church’s clock repair fund. They played a variety of music, concluding with ‘Star Lake’. A volunteer from the audience conducted the band

OUTREACH

games. Corps officer Major Matt Butler led helpful Scripture readings, thoughts and prayers, and everyone had a meaningful time. Pets were also invited and Major Alexandra Hughes introduced corps folk to her labrador, Lucy. The marquee served as a witness to passers-by, with many enquiring about corps life. – AH

COMMUNITY

DERBY SOUTH A resident who celebrated his 75th birthday asked his family to make a donation to the corps instead of giving him presents. They asked that the money be used to buy items of food for the community. As a result, the corps was able to purchase more than 260 items and provide weekly breakfast hampers to families. Each hamper included a War Cry, a Kids Alive! and prayer request leaflets. The corps hopes that this is the start of building relationships with them. – DW

NAMES OF JESUS FOCUS by former gap year interns (Addlestone)

SUNDAY 2 OCTOBER – JOHN 8:58

Did you know that Jesus makes seven ‘I am’ declarations about himself in the Gospel of John, each time combining it with tremendous metaphors that express his saving relationship for the world? The Jewish people he was talking to knew this was a claim to be God. Pray that we never forget that before anything existed, God was there. He’s known us since before we were even a thought and he will love us for ever. Let us be in awe of the power of ‘I am’.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS: MATTHEW 11:28–30 by Elisabeth Elsey (Legal Services Unit, THQ)

MONDAY 3 OCTOBER – ‘COME TO ME’ (V28)

God desires to be in relationship with us, and for us to experience fullness of life. Jesus’ first instruction to us is a simple one. However our lives look right now, whatever we are struggling with, Jesus calls us to come to him.

TUESDAY 4 OCTOBER – ‘ALL YOU WHO ARE WEARY AND BURDENED’ (V28)

What are the things in our lives that have caused us to feel weary and burdened? Ask God to highlight any changes that you can make now in your life to ease the burden. Could these be unnecessary burdens we have placed on ourselves or that others have placed on us?

WEDNESDAY 5 OCTOBER – ‘AND I WILL GIVE YOU REST’ (V28)

As Christians, we believe that living our lives God’s way – the way we were intended to live – is the best possible way. The Message paraphrase of this verse says that Jesus will show us how to take a ‘real rest’. Ask God today for the peace you need to be able to take a ‘real rest’ amid life’s busyness and the stresses and strains of the world. And if you think you don’t need to rest – remember, Jesus is God and even he rested!

THURSDAY 6 OCTOBER – ‘TAKE MY YOKE UPON YOU AND LEARN FROM ME’ (V29)

Jesus may be telling us to lay down our heavy burdens, but we don’t go away empty-handed. He has a job for us all to do and we can learn what to do and how to live by taking his lead. What can you learn from Jesus’ life and love today?

FRIDAY 7 OCTOBER – ‘FOR I AM GENTLE AND HUMBLE IN HEART’ (V29)

In a world where power and brute force often win the day, what can we learn from Jesus’ attitude towards other people? Gentleness and humility can be disarming and can transform a situation – maybe even a life. Ask for opportunities to demonstrate these qualities of Jesus today.

SATURDAY 8 OCTOBER – ‘AND YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS’ (V29)

Are you an overthinker? Or a worrier? Is your head full of all the things that need to be ‘done’? Does your mind often wander to the future? Do you worry about those things over which you have no control? Centre yourself on God. Ask him to bring peace to your mind and help you to find rest for your soul today.

A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationist.org.uk/resources

Suitable for vegetarians?

On World Vegetarian Day (1 October), Malcolm Dragon considers the Army’s place in today’s plant-based world

DIDyou know that The Salvation Army has a vegetarian history? Catherine and William Booth, along with their son, Bramwell, and daughter-in-law, Florence, were convinced of the spiritual and physical benefits of vegetarianism.

In the 1886 Orders and Regulations for Field Officers, William wrote: ‘It is a great delusion to suppose that flesh meat of any kind is essential to health. Considerably more than three parts of the work in the world is done by men who never taste anything but vegetable, farinaceous food… There are far more strength-producing properties in whole-wheat flour, peas, beans, lentils, oatmeal, roots and other vegetables of the same class, than there are in beef or mutton, poultry or fish, or animal food of any description.’

In Religion for Every Day, he wrote: ‘Animal food should not be taken, at most, more than once a day. There are multitudes of men and women who would be wiser, healthier, happier and holier without meat altogether. I recommend everybody who has not made the experiment of total abstinence from flesh meat in every form to do so at once. Give it a month’s trial.’

Bramwell thrived on a strict vegetarian diet for more than a decade and outlined many arguments in its favour. In Genesis 1:29, God intended the food of humans to be vegetarian. He didn’t design the human digestive system to process flesh, the consumption of which increases the risk of cancer, indigestion, constipation, dysentery, piles, worms, eczema, headaches, obesity and poor energy levels. Decaying flesh also carries a high risk of infection.

A vegetarian diet, Bramwell argued, favours a longer, healthier, more spiritual life. It is also more economical and less wasteful, leaving ‘money to spare for the poor and for the work of God’.

However, it’s not just about our health. David Newstead’s ‘Exploring faith and ethics’ (Salvationist 19 March) reminded us that our relationship with the animal kingdom is integral to ‘ethical Christian stewardship’. Drawing attention to animal products’ environmental impacts, he said many people today believe that ‘animals deserve the right to life’. I heartily agree, and so did Bramwell, who believed that God disapproved of all cruelty ‘to man or beast’.

Along with Staff Captain Tracy in The Official Gazette of the Life Assurance Department of The Salvation Army (May 1901–April 1902), I must emphasise that I’m not ‘making a

religion of my diet’. Nor am I simply yearning for a return to the past. I certainly don’t advocate a condemnatory or prescriptive approach to Salvationists’ dietary choices.

But with 41 per cent of families in the UK now following a flexitarian or meat-free diet, and in the face of modern-day environmental, health and animal welfare concerns, the Army risks being seen as out of step if it doesn’t take a stance on this.

The Army no longer promotes, or even encourages, the abstention from animal-derived foodstuffs evident during its first half-century. As Samantha Jane Calvert noted in her thesis, Eden’s Diet: Christianity and Vegetarianism 1809–2009: ‘The Booth family’s commitment to vegetarianism, the Army’s recommendation of vegetarianism to officers in its Orders and its exclusive use of the vegetarian diet into the 20th century [in its homes and hospitals] is largely unappreciated by the Army today.’

Within our ranks, thousands will already have chosen vegetarian or vegan lifestyles and might appreciate the opportunity to link up with like-minded others. Many trying to adopt a flexitarian diet might find it helpful to have a source of advice within our organisation.

Would you be interested, therefore, in a Salvationist plant-based network? It could contribute towards two of our territory’s mission priorities: nurturing disciples of Jesus and caring for creation. If you would like to discuss vegetarianism or veganism further or chat with like-minded people, please email me at towardsveganism@gmail.com

MALCOLM DRAGON Maltby

Running on a prayer

As he prepares to run the London Marathon on Sunday (2 October) with Team Sally Army, former Big Brother contestant Glyn Wise talks to Simon Hope about his life and calling

WHILE he may have come to popularity through his antics in the Big Brother house, Glyn Wise hasn’t rested on that fame. Since his stint on the Channel 4 reality series, he’s been a teacher, a radio and TV presenter and travelled the world, teaching in China and Ghana. Now he’s on his way to becoming ordained in the Church in Wales. Oh, and he’s running with Team Sally Army in the 2022 London Marathon.

HOW DO YOUR EXPERIENCES INFLUENCE YOU TODAY?

From being a Big Brother contestant, I learnt to live with people. I was in the house for three months and there were people from all walks of life, so I know how to cope with that. Being a teacher is the same as being up at the front as a preacher. You need to keep the congregation interested in what you have to say while making sure that they go out having learnt something. And being a radio and TV presenter is about getting a quick message out there in a clear and structured way, and that comes through when you’re trying to write a sermon.

But I have to admit, I had the best experience working at St Michael’s Church in Camden Town, north London. That’s where I worked with prostitutes and people experiencing homelessness – people on the outskirts of society. You really feel like that’s what Jesus would have been doing.

I believe that everything I’ve done in my past has led to where I am now. I have three years studying and then two years working as a curate and then I become a priest. At first I was thinking, oh my goodness, I could become a doctor in the same time. But being a doctor is not my calling. I feel that the priesthood is my calling. Talking about religion is a bit like Marmite, but I pray before any interview or before putting anything out on social media. And do you know what? I haven’t had any negativity in response.

I really believe that God has called me to be his servant. I’ve asked him to use me in whatever way he wants to spread the good message of Jesus Christ and I think that’s what he’s doing.

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING WITH TEAM SALLY ARMY?

When I was in Camden, we used to work with The Salvation Army and I saw all the excellent work that it does, especially with people experiencing homelessness. The Salvation Army’s work follows the guidelines of what Jesus Christ was asking us to do: go out there and help others and treat your neighbour as you want others to treat you.

Now, with the price of heating going up, more and more people are facing homelessness, and I think helping The Salvation Army to be out there – ready to help people in need – is a great cause. That’s why I asked if I could run for Team Sally Army.

HOW WOULD YOU ENCOURAGE OTHERS IN THEIR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY?

First of all, it all begins with prayer. I’ve always known that praying was important, that God is always there to listen. He’s a big brother, a friend, your Father, and he wants you to turn to him in good days and in bad days. I think it’s important to turn to God when you’re in a good place because he makes you humble. I thank him for the fact that I’m healthy, I’m fit, I can go out there and work and I’m in a really good position in life.

And one thing that I would say to anybody who’s on a journey is to always trust in God. He is the light that always shines upon you.

I would also like to thank everyone in The Salvation Army for all the work they are doing, because it’s life-changing. When you do the work you do, it’s easy to feel like you’ve done something small. But then there are repercussions for everything, and I think that even the smallest thing that you do for The Salvation Army means a lot to a lot of people. And that’s why I’m running the marathon for the Army!

Sponsor Glyn and donate towards The Salvation Army’s work by going to justgiving.com/glyn-wise

If you’re interested in supporting Team Sally Army in a future London Marathon or another running event, find out more information by visiting salvationarmy.org.uk/run/ london-marathon-2022, emailing challenge@salvationarmy.org.uk or calling 020 7367 4819.

GLYN’S TOP RUNNING TIPS

PRAY before you start doing anything.

Make sure you EAT AND SLEEP WELL

LISTEN TO YOUR FAVOURITE MUSIC – this can be a great motivator.

When you feel like giving up, COUNT TO 100 to push yourself that little bit further.

Keep some SUGAR CUBES in your pocket – for that extra burst of energy!

LOOK AFTER YOUR SHOES! Give them a clean and always open the laces when you take them off.

Introducing... African Praise

The Fellowship’s Organising Secretary, Cloud Tembo, explains the history and mission of the territory’s new official group

IN2003 a group of African Salvationists attended Luton Corps for the dedication of a new baby born to a Zimbabwean couple. During the time for offering, the Zimbabwean Salvationists from Luton and Milton Keynes Central together presented an item singing and playing the hosho (rattle or maranka). They felt the need to have a fellowship for themselves to enhance closer mutual

support and a better environment for reaching out to fellow African friends.

There was another dedication of children in Leicester that the Zimbabwean-born Salvationists attended, which was officiated by then Colonel Stanslous Mutewera, who had been posted to the UK as assistant chief secretary in 2003. When the corps officer for Luton was transferred to Wickford, the African

Salvationists attended a memorial service for the officer’s mother, who had been promoted to Glory. Again they were given the opportunity to come together and present an item during the service.

This group welcomed the appointment of then Colonels Stanslous and Jannet Mutewera to THQ. They paid them a visit in London and had the opportunity to spend hours of fellowship at their residence. This gathering further fuelled the need to form a fellowship. The farewell meeting for Commissioners Stanslous and Jannet’s return to Zimbabwe as the territorial leaders in 2004 saw many Zimbabwean and other African Salvationists from across the UK join together. This gathering was the true spiritual beginning of the African Praise Fellowship Zimbabwe. The Fellowship’s unity was strengthened by the appointment of Commissioners Amos and Rosemary Makina as international secretaries for Africa in 2004. They rallied the troops, leading various meetings, including the first couples meeting held at Milton Keynes Central.

TC Commissioner Anthony Cotterill presents the Fellowship’s certificate of recognition

Fellowship Zimbabwe

OFFICIAL RECOGNITION

Together 2022 in July was a landmark in the history of African Praise Fellowship Zimbabwe. The Fellowship and its constitution were officially recognised by the UK and Ireland Territory during the weekend’s celebrations.

A group of members attended the event to represent the Fellowship. They combined for stage rehearsal with the ISS and ISB on the day of the congress, with leaders from the songsters, worship band, timbrels and hosho sections present.

Leading the music groups on stage was Timothy Ngwenya, who joined the Fellowship as a member of the worship band nine years after the Fellowship’s formation.

Timothy also has his own musical ministry, which the Fellowship supports.

conventions became the hallmark of the Fellowship’s annual activities, with many African Salvationists attending from all over the UK.

In 2008 the Fellowship held its Easter Convention at Sunbury Court with part of the residential funding provided by the Army in the USA through IHQ’s Africa Zone. At the request of the fundraising committee, Commissioners Amos and Rosemary officially appointed the African Praise Fellowship Zimbabwe leadership.

MISSION AND MOVEMENT

The Fellowship has always been in demand to take part in church worship by leading meetings. Over the past few years more and more of the African diaspora, particularly from Zimbabwe, have joined the Fellowship. We have had membership including South African soldiers and the youth section is very diverse, including local youth who attended conferences hosted by the African Praise Youth Fellowship.

COMMITTEES AND CONVENTIONS

The Fellowship’s first committee was formed at Birmingham Citadel as a fundraising committee to assist in the purchase of the territorial congress grounds at Waterfalls, Zimbabwe. This eventually transformed into the leadership committee of the Fellowship.

Worship meetings began to be held in different towns and cities, including Luton, Leeds, Milton Keynes and London (at Catford Corps), with an ever-increasing attendance, sometimes numbering close to 300 people.

The first African Easter Convention was held in Manchester in 2006, as the Fellowship reached maturity. These

The Fellowship has the structure of a corps, with vibrant brigades and a worship band that have boosted the well-attended praise and worship meetings. Within the main Fellowship there are several groups, including a men’s fellowship, home league, youth fellowship, married couples fellowship, medical fellowship, officers’ kids fellowship, young couples fellowship and the African Praise Songsters and African Praise Band, the Hosho Brigade and the African Praise Timbrels.

With God’s blessings, the Fellowship has kept growing in outreach and in its inner life.

The Covid-19 pandemic impacted the Fellowship’s programme, with Zoom becoming the platform where members met and comforted each other as they lost a lot of relatives and friends both in the UK and back home in Zimbabwe. There were no music rehearsals held over Zoom, but there was spontaneous singing and testimony.

As a result, the Fellowship has diversified in its mission field while still maintaining its overall goal: to make Jesus known to whoever comes to the Fellowship, African or non-African, for the ultimate aim of bringing glory to Almighty God.

The Fellowship’s mission statement is enshrined in its constitution, which is available at request from THQ, where the certificate of recognition issued to the Fellowship has its home.

African Praise Fellowship Zimbabwe will write a book with the details of its journey so far, which will help other diasporas to understand that the Christian movement grows with the migration of its members

CLOUD TEMBO Corps Sergeant-Major Milton Keynes Central

Members of African Praise Fellowship Zimbabwe perform at Together 2022

Army spreads community spirit

MERSEYSIDE

THESalvation Army has been a strong presence in Merseyside for more than 140 years, starting with just one corps in 1880. Now, with eight corps, three Lifehouses, fresh expressions and established organisational partnerships, it is spreading and reinforcing community spirit across the county, reports Communications Officer Luisa Dawe.

Champions Court in St Helens is the supported housing project that the Homelessness Services Unit launched in July 2021 to help former rough sleepers get ready for independent living. It also supports individuals as they overcome the complex reasons for their homelessness, such as mental health issues, domestic violence, childhood trauma or addiction.

The accommodation comprises 28 apartments across two blocks with 24-hour wrap-around support provided by the HSU. It celebrated its first anniversary with an array of success stories, including a resident who was reunited with his children, and a couple who welcomed their first baby.

Robert Long, the Homelessness Services Unit’s regional manager, said:

‘Champions Court is a much-needed service for vulnerable members of the community. We have had success in working alongside local organisations and the council. It’s really special for us to see how far some of our residents have come. We will continue to deliver this, seeing the person and their needs as opposed to the label of homelessness.’

Liverpool Walton tackled holiday hunger and financial family worries over the school summer holidays by supporting more than 100 children through a summer holiday club, taking pressure off families as many continued to navigate the cost of living crisis.

Across the four weeks that it ran, the club provided children with breakfast and lunch, as well as snacks and refreshments throughout the day. Activities included cycle safety, wildlife and reptile experiences and football training.

The corps was able to run the summer club thanks to a grant it applied for and received from the Holiday Activities and Food fund, an initiative run by Liverpool City council. A condition of the corps being awarded the funding was that 80 per cent of the places had to be filled by

children qualifying for free school meals. The corps worked in partnership with local schools, its food bank clients and children’s centres to find the families who would benefit from the provision.

Corps Community Manager Jeanette Griffiths, who has worked at the corps for 15 years, explained that this year has been the hardest for households in the community on the lowest of incomes: ‘A lot of children would suffer if there wasn’t any support on offer. A lot may not have got substantial meals. Some may not have even been fed, and this is why we felt it was important to hold a holiday club; to give a bit of salvation for those who are struggling.’

Just 10 miles down the road from Liverpool Walton you’ll find Liverpool Stoneycroft. It offers a number of weekly activities for the community, from a craft club and football matches for young adults to Employment Plus, which provides tailored support to help people become job-ready and overcome obstacles they may face professionally and personally.

The corps works with other organisations, such as FoodCycle, a food charity that is working to make food poverty, loneliness and food waste a thing of the past. FoodCycle and Liverpool Stoneycroft work together to provide a sit-down meal each week in the corps hall. This provides further spiritual and

Kathryn Casserley

emotional support to the community.

The corps is also part of a food distribution network. Volunteers and corps members source food from local shops to pack and deliver food parcels to those being pushed into poverty as the cost of living crisis rages on.

Southport Corps is in the process of building and developing a community garden. It is envisaged as a mindfulness space for connection and conversation, as well as a place where fruit, vegetables and flowers can be grown. The idea for the garden came from a team of volunteers, corps members and Salvationists who gather together to actively seek ways in which the corps can engage with members of the community.

Kathryn Casserley, the community programme and engagement manager at the corps, said: ‘We decided to use the space we had behind the hall to support our missional priorities of caring for creation and serving others without discrimination. The garden is a great way for children to get involved in all aspects of outdoor life, whether that be listening to stories sat in the open surroundings or helping us pick the fruit and veg that has been grown.

‘It is also about giving a space to those who perhaps don’t have one, if they live in flats for example, and connecting with others and with nature.’

Strawberry Field: Three years on

Mission Director Major Kathy Versfeld provides an update on the work going on behind the iconic red gates

STRAWBERRY

Field has celebrated its third anniversary since we opened the gates in 2019.

The redeveloped site is home to a visitor exhibition, café and shop, as well as Steps at Strawberry Field, a programme that supports – among others – 18 to 25-year-olds with learning difficulties or other barriers to employment.

Our Steps to Work scheme, part funded by the European Social Fund, has now reached its 12th cohort, with 73 people currently taking part in the programme. Half the young people who have already graduated from Steps to Work have moved straight into paid employment.

This month we are expanding the programme with our first offsite cohort. A work readiness course will take place at Birkenhead and Rock Ferry Corps on the Wirral.

We have also signed an agreement to work with 6% and Rising, a charity that takes its name from the fact that only 6 per cent of individuals with learning disabilities are in employment across the UK.

We want Liverpool to be the first city of inclusion in the UK. We want to

challenge workplaces, businesses and employers to be totally inclusive of people with all abilities.

Pictured cutting Strawberry Field’s third birthday cake is our newest staff member, Dan, a Steps to Work graduate who started working in the café last month.

Our mission and business model also involves engaging the 60,000 people who visit the Strawberry Field gates every year and includes the planting of a fresh expression of Salvation Army church within the Strawberry Field community. After being impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, this year has seen our tourist activity rebound, with commercial revenue in the final week of August exceeding that of our opening week in 2019. We also recently received a TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice award.

Building on this engagement and outreach will be our first charity Christmas concert at the ACC Auditorium. Taking place on the first Sunday in Advent (27 November), we will be teaming up with Salvationists from across the region, including Sale and Liverpool Walton Corps.

Three years on, we are still finding new ways to grow this fresh expression of Army mission.

Interested in joining the Strawberry Field team? There is an ongoing opportunity for a gap year placement with us. To find out more, visit strawberryfieldliverpool.com/gapyear

Liverpool Walton

Following the Father’s lead

Lieutenant Nathan Loxley highlights the truth at the heart of Jesus’ ministry

JOHN 5:16–30

WHEN we read our study passage and the surrounding verses, it might seem as though Jesus is actively looking for trouble – that he is a provocateur in the most extreme sense of the word. Such a persona might appeal to our Salvation Army identity – we play a good game in holy stubbornness. But let’s not get carried away. Jesus’ actions on the Sabbath were not to look for a fight. As we read in verse 19, he was simply being led by the Father: ‘Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.’

Why did Jesus heal on the Sabbath? (See the start of the chapter.) Maybe it was in line with his published values.

Through the week with Salvationist – a devotional thought for each day

by Major Melvyn Knott

For example, when, during public worship in the synagogue at Nazareth, Jesus read Isaiah’s prophecy of God’s anointed bringing sight to the blind and liberty for the captive, he concluded with: ‘Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing’ (Luke 4:21). Perhaps it was because healing is part of God’s mission. Maybe Jesus was simply overcome with compassion.

These are all good answers for making an apologetic, but they still feel somewhat lacking. The passage clearly leads us to the true answer through his repeated phrase: ‘Very truly I tell you.’

‘Very truly I tell you’ is a literary device used by John as his equivalent of highlighting, underlining and circling the words that follow. In this passage, John uses this phrase three times and no one is to miss it.

The first time is in verse 19, where

Jesus explains that his ministry is all about a step-by-step obedience of the Father. This in-sync relationship even leads Jesus to individual people at specific times. More bloated definitions of mission might have some benefit, but step-by-step obedience is what is required, nothing more and nothing less.

When we stray away from the model Jesus offers in John 5:16–30, we run the risk of trying to do too much and burning out or falling for the temptation of working from our own strength and ideas. This results in a pale imitation of what God offers us.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

How do we listen to God’s leadings throughout each day?

To what extent do we ask him to lead us, or do we ask him to bless our own ideas?

SUNDAY

I believe that God the Father/ Can be seen in God the Son,/ In the gentleness of Jesus/ Love for all the world is shown./ Though men crucify their Saviour/ And his tenderness rebuff,/ God is love the cross is saying,/ Calvary is proof enough. (SASB 34)

MONDAY

Jesus answered: ‘Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, “Show us the Father”?’ (John 14:9)

TUESDAY

But my heart at times with care is crowded,/ Oft I serve with weak, o’erladen hands/ And that early joy grows dim and clouded/ As each day its heavy toll demands./ Have I ceased from walking close beside thee?/ Have I grieved thee with an ill-kept vow?/ In my heart of hearts have I denied thee?/ Speak, dear Lord, O speak and tell me now.

The second time, Jesus highlights that new life is found in him and his teachings: ‘Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life’ (v24).

The Greek word for ‘believes’ is . It speaks of more than just believing in Jesus, but actively committing one’s trust to him. The Pharisees did not doubt Jesus’ ability to heal, but they rejected his claims of equality with the Father and they refused to put their trust in him. Jesus makes it clear that to reject him is to reject the Father and to accept the Son is to accept the Father also.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Do you commit your trust to God?

Are you currently experiencing the new life that Jesus freely offers to us in these verses?

WEDNESDAY

‘She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’

(Matthew 1:21)

The third time Jesus says ‘very truly I tell you’ is a reminder of his authority: ‘Very truly I tell you, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live’ (v25).

Jesus is under attack from the Pharisees but his authority greatly outweighed theirs. When we step out in mission we should also expect some challengers but, in this verse, we have a great reminder that we sit under the authority of Christ. This can be a great encouragement and can also inform how we act and how we pray.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

What difference does Christ’s authority make to us?

Are there any fellow Christians you can think of whom you could message and encourage today?

THURSDAY

God sent his Son, they called him Jesus;/ He came to love, heal and forgive;/ He lived and died to buy my pardon,/ An empty grave is there to prove my Saviour lives. (SASB 219)

FRIDAY

These three ‘very truly’s show us the journey of Jesus’ ministry. First, that his earthly ministry was fuelled by his being one with the Father and following the Father’s leadings. Second, that hearing and believing Jesus are key to our salvation. Third, Jesus points to his ministry to those who were already dead and his authority to return in the future as the judge of all.

John wanted to make this clear to those who first heard his Gospel. What message will you share today?

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus.

(Philippians 2:5)

Prayer

Lord Jesus Christ, help us to show your love. We want to accomplish your will for our lives in this way and pray that you will equip us to be your people.

LIEUTENANT NATHAN LOXLEY Corps Officer St Ives

SATURDAY

Christ is alive! No longer bound/ To distant years in Palestine,/ But saving, healing, here and now,/ And touching every place and time.

(SASB 217)

What are old people for?

On International Day of Older People (1 October), Andrew Wileman heralds an age of new possibilities for the Army’s work and mission

NOTonly is the headline the title of a great book by Dr William Thomas, it is also perhaps one of the most important questions facing The Salvation Army and the wider Church.

The UK Census of 2021 found that more than one fifth of the UK population is aged 65 or over – and this figure is projected to grow to about a quarter of the population by 2041. In the next 25 years, the number of people older than 85 will double to 2.6 million. A combination of falling birth rates and improved survival of people in later life is leading to a marked change in society. The world is going to be greyer, older and with a larger number of older people and an increasing number who are dependent on others for care.

You might be thinking, ‘How terrible!’ But this is an age of new possibilities and opportunities that are fundamental to the Army’s future mission.

The biblical narrative is one in which

old people are both celebrated and venerated. ‘Grey hair is a crown of glory, it is gained in a righteous life’ (Proverbs 16:31 English Standard Version). ‘Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God’ (Leviticus 19:32). ‘Wisdom is with the aged and understanding in length of days’ (Job 12:12 ESV ).

And yet corps and other churches seem to have a relentless focus on young people and young families. A youthful, trendy image seems to be paramount – we want to be energetic, informed and in touch with society. Unfortunately, the rows of senior citizens in many corps don’t seem to quite fit that image. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Perhaps the pervasive ageism we find in the secular world is merely being replicated in corps and churches.

Of course, young people matter. The mingling of youthful zeal and the wisdom of older saints is part of the

point of God’s multigenerational Church. However, when all generations are present, we must acknowledge that all perspectives are necessary to truly be the Army that God has commissioned to reach and love the world.

How foolish it would be to ignore the wisdom of those in later life. I suggest that we need an active, ongoing conversation about the gifts and callings of older people.

Here are four biblical ways they can impact the Army’s local mission in the 21st century:

CUSTODIANS OF FAMILIES

In Leviticus 19 we read that the primary role of elders was forming community by expressing love, wisdom, memory, authority and example. Offering life wisdom in a non-judgemental way can be an antidote to the simplistic, blackand-white perspectives of much public discourse. The experiences of going

through deep waters of suffering, failure and bereavement can provide resources of wisdom to pass on.

SERVANTS OF GOD

In 2 Corinthians the apostle Paul outlines a series of setbacks and sufferings. The words are a note in a season to those who are older: ‘Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day’ (4:16). The role of older people in our corps can prophetically counter any obsession with outward things. Whatever they might happen to be in a local context – buildings, programmes, budgets, etc – we need those who go before us to show us how it can be done with grace and humility.

AMBASSADORS OF THE LIFELONG JOURNEY

Investing in the next generation through deep intergenerational friendships in a society increasingly segmented by age can seem to be unusual. But Christian history shows the profound importance of intergenerational friendships in

OLDER RADICALS

Dive deeper on salvationist.org.uk

Ordinary but radical people living in later life are peppered throughout the Bible. Here are three examples:

ANNA AND SIMEON Joseph and Mary go to the Temple with Jesus, their first-born son (see Luke 2).

Simeon had been told by the Spirit that he wouldn’t die until he had seen the Messiah. He was the first Jew to recognise who Jesus was.

Anna dedicated her life to fasting and prayer. She knew Jesus was no ordinary baby and immediately told everyone the good news. She was the first witness for Christ.

The first public presentation of Jesus was in the presence of two older people. Understanding that God’s timeline was not theirs, they never gave up hope.

LOIS AND EUNICE

Timothy’s faith came from his godly mother, Eunice, and grandmother, Lois (see 2 Timothy).

Lois and Eunice sound like a couple of women who might be members of our lunch club or over-60 club. In fact, that is exactly who they could be. And that makes them important to the story of God’s Kingdom.

God has put such people in our lives. It is a gift to love and walk with one another and soak up the blessings that flow across all generations.

RUTH AND NAOMI

Ruth’s mother-in-law, Naomi, decided to return to her home country after her husband and two sons died (see Ruth).

The logical thing for the widowed Ruth to do was to go home to her family, but she felt a conviction to go with Naomi to a foreign land. It turned out well. Ruth married a wealthy Hebrew and bore a son, Obed, who went on to be the grandfather of King David.

Ruth’s wisdom is a reminder that if we love others, it’s hard to go wrong.

Read the full Bible study, including questions for discussion and reflection, at salvationist.org.uk/devotions

growing the next generation of disciples. The Spanish philosopher Unamuno reminds us we have a choice of ‘seeing life from the balcony’ looking at life as spectators or else we choose to ‘live on the road’ as pilgrims making progress.

REFLECTORS OF PRAYER AND PURPOSE

As a younger person I was so grateful and moved knowing there were older saints who were praying faithfully for me. The challenge for those of us who are older is to take up that role for the

next generation. Paradoxically, as the opportunities open to us start to narrow down, we can discover afresh the wonder of simply being alive and the smaller and frequently ignored blessings of creation, family and friendship.

ANDREW WILEMAN Assistant Director of Older People’s Services THQ

CENTURIES

after slavery was officially abolished, thousands of people are still being exploited and kept in slave-like conditions across the UK. They can be forced to work in the sex trade, used as domestic servants, exploited for labour or criminal activity, or have their organs removed to be sold. This exploitation is often hidden, rarely obvious and could be happening in the community where you live.

The Salvation Army provides specialist support for all adult survivors of modern slavery in England and Wales through a government contract that was first awarded in 2011. This can include helping survivors access confidential legal advice, healthcare, counselling, educational opportunities, financial aid and support in obtaining employment and housing.

In the past decade, the Army has helped more than 15,000 adult survivors of modern slavery. Between July 2020 and June 2021 alone, more than 2,600

survivors were referred to the Army for help. One of the challenges, however, is that modern slavery is often hidden in plain sight.

Major Kathy Betteridge, director of Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery, says: ‘Together we are all fighting to end slavery, but we can only end it when everyone recognises the scale of the problem.’

To help raise awareness, the Army is inviting people to buy and wear a #WeAreNotforSale temporary tattoo between 10 October and 18 October.

The tattoo has a barcode design to symbolise how slavery treats people as objects to be bought, sold and exploited.

To help to start a conversation and raise awareness, you can take a selfie while wearing the tattoo and share it with the hashtag #WeAreNotforSale on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and tag @SalvationArmyUK

WHERE CAN I BUY A TATTOO?

Each tattoo can be bought for £1 (or you can buy a pack of 50 for £25) from sps-shop.com/asd-tattoo, with all proceeds going towards The Salvation Army’s Survivor Support Fund, which provides additional support to help survivors of slavery move on with their lives.

Place your order now to be ready to wear your tattoo in time!

OTHER WAYS TO GET INVOLVED

Digital toolkit

A digital toolkit is available to download at salvationarmy.org. uk/modern-slavery/anti-slaveryday, which contains images and information you can share.

Read all about it

You can also read and share the 24 September issue of War Cry, which focuses on modern slavery, at salvationist.org.uk/warcry

Become a volunteer

If you can, join the Army’s team of volunteers who help survivors of modern slavery by driving them to safety, helping them tell their story and mentoring them as they rebuild their lives. Find out more details at salvationarmy.org.uk/volunteer/ anti-trafficking-and-modernslavery

Raise funds

Join Team Sally Army to fundraise for the Army’s work and its Survivor Support Fund. For ideas or for help with starting a fundraising challenge, email challenge@ salvationarmy.org.uk

If you are concerned that someone may be a victim of modern slavery, call the confidential 24/7 referral line on 0800 808 3733

Ahead of Anti-Slavery Day (18 October), Salvationist explains how you can help raise awareness of modern slavery

COVENTRY CITY Samuel Opoku-Amponsah was enrolled as a soldier. He shared a moving testimony of how he was born into a Christian family and from a young age had firm roots on which to build his faith. In recent years his faith has developed, and he shared Psalm 46:10, which has helped him through difficult times. Samuel thanked his corps family for their encouragement and welcome. Pictured with Samuel are corps officer Major Andrew Spivey and Flag Sergeant Richard Thomson. – VS

GORSEINON Jean McDonald was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Major Sylvia Watts. Jean shared her testimony of how God has led her in faith over many years, from the moment she came to know him as her Saviour as a child. Jean said she has always put God first in everything, and he has watched over her life. She then sang a duet ‘Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God’ (SASB 675) with Major Sylvia. – MC

KIRKCALDY Corps officer Captain Andrew Manley welcomed Linda Anderson as an adherent. In her testimony Linda said that since coming to the Army she has found peace and purpose. Linda has been attending worship since the corps moved to its new premises in April 2021. – AM

BURNLEY Anne Nowell was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Major Lorraine O’Neill. After Accrington Corps closed several years ago, Anne lost touch with the Army. Two years ago she spoke with a member of Burnley Corps and accepted an invitation to meetings. Anne now feels she is back where she belongs and is grateful for the welcome she has received. She looks forward to growing in her relationship with the Lord as the weeks and months unfold.

Johan Kreuiter was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Lorraine O’Neill. Following a difficult time in his life Johan entered the hall to donate to the Army’s work. A long conversation resulted in him attending Sunday worship and he felt that he had found a new spiritual home. Already a mature Christian, and previously a church elder, he has taken on leadership of a new Bible study group at the corps in addition to using his practical skills to update and enhance the corps building. – LO

ARMY PEOPLE

APPOINTED

Captain Lindsey Taylor, additional appointment, Area Safeguarding Adviser, Central East Division

Major Ruth Dykes, Kidsgrove (21 hours per week)

Effective 1 September

Colonel Hervé Cachelin, Diss (21 hours per week)

Effective 6 October

Captain Marie Burr, Balham Major Jo Moody, HSU Chaplain, Cambria House

Effective 3 November

Major Danièle Norton, Hull Community Chaplain

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES

Diamond

S/Reservist Christine and Bandsman William Stewart, Bellshill (26 September)

Songsters Ken and Maureen Golby, Leek (29 September)

Hugh and Margaret Grant, Hamilton (5 October)

ENGAGEMENTS

GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE

Eastern Europe Territory, Thu 6 Oct – Mon 10

Hong Kong and Macau Command, Sun 16 – Mon 24

THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM

Sunbury Court (welcome to the ICO), Thu 13 Oct

THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL

WBC (welcome weekend),

Sat 8 Oct – Sun 9

Sunbury Court (welcome to the ICO), Thu 13

Staple Hill (installation of Severn and Somerset divisional leaders),

Sun 16

THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL PAUL MAIN) AND COLONEL JENINE MAIN

WBC (welcome weekend),

Sat 8 Oct – Sun 9

DEDICATED TO GOD

Nancy Jean Spinner, daughter of James and Sarah Spinner, at Minster by Captain Katy Johnson

Albie Bear Stevens and Isla Elizabeth Stevens, son and daughter of Dan and Vicky Stevens, at Castleford by Major Colin Stevens

PROMOTED TO GLORY

Rtd BM David Garrett, Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls Moira Watson, Glenrothes Bandsman Brian Packer, Newton Abbot

Maureen Russell, Cannock

BEREAVED

TE Craig McKinstry, Fraserburgh, of his mother Carol McKinstry

Major Malcolm Martin, Thornton Heath and THQ Publishing Secretary, of his stepfather James (Jim) William Watson

Margaret Morton, Paisley Citadel, of her mother Isabella Morton

Avis Garrett, Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls, of her husband Rtd BM David Garrett, Duncan Garrett, Hendon, of his father

Pauline Ewins, Staple Hill, of her husband Clive Ewins, Bandswoman Beth Ewins, Staple Hill, and Carolyn Ewins of their father

TRIBUTES

MAJORS HANDEL AND LILLIAN EVERETT WHEN he was six years old Handel Everett attended the opening ceremony of the newly completed International Training College (ITC), in the presence of General Bramwell Booth, while his parents were on the college staff.

From an early age Handel was proficient on piano, piano accordion, concertina and brass instruments. A gifted artist, he earned a scholarship to study commercial art.

Moving to Weymouth, Handel met the love of his life, Lillian Price, through their shared love of music. Lillian had gained an LTCL for pianoforte.

Handel served in the staff band of the Royal Tank Regiment, during and immediately after the Second World War.

He declined a later offer to pursue his military music career as he and Lillian had each received a distinct calling to serve as Salvation Army officers. Lillian worked for the Post Office throughout this period.

After seven years together Handel and Lillian married in 1948, before entering the ITC in the Standard Bearers session. Their first appointment was to Alderney, where their first daughter, Linda, was born. Corps appointments followed at Gorey in the Channel Isles, Christchurch, Winchester –where their second daughter, Denise, was born – and Newport, Isle of Wight.

In 1957, Handel was appointed as a sectional officer at the ITC. He was bandmaster of the cadets’ band for six years and a founding member of the Joystrings. In 1964, a third daughter, Teresa, was born and was known as the ‘Joystrings baby’.

An appointment at Devonport Morice Town was followed by Hemel Hempstead, where Handel also served as chaplain to the town’s mayor. A return to the ITC was followed by appointments to Upper Norwood, Bristol Staple Hill and Boscombe with Springbourne outpost. Handel and Lillian were later appointed as divisional staff to South Wales, then to the Bristol Division, from where they retired. Handel and Lillian’s dedication, commitment, compassion and hospitality were noted in all these appointments.

Upon retiring to Bournemouth, they both served as divisional auditors for 10 years and Lillian was divisional home league secretary.

Handel participated in events commemorating the 50th anniversary of VE Day, marching with a contingent of Salvation Army war veterans at Buckingham Palace, and in the 75th anniversary of the opening of William Booth College.

Throughout their 81 years together, Handel and Lillian demonstrated exemplary faithfulness, integrity and commitment to their calling and their family: their 3 daughters, 2 sons-in-law, 7 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. It was family first, ministry in its rightful place and God over all.

Handel and Lillian celebrated their 74th wedding anniversary on the day Handel was taken into hospital and soon after called to his eternal Home. Inseparable to the end, Lillian’s earthly journey concluded a week later. ‘Beloved, beautiful! Together in life, together in death’ (2 Samuel 1:23 The Message). – CS

FREE PRINTED MUSIC The Musical Salvationist 1961-1993 and the American Songster Collection. Delivery not included. Please contact Songster Leader Gloria Keers on 07767 733496.

Southbour ne, Bour nemouthSouthbourne, Bournemouth SOUTHERN BREEZE LODGE (adults only)

Salvationist-owned guest house close to shops and beaches For more information please call 01202 427459 Email enquiries@southernbreezelodge.co.uk or visit southernbreezelodge.co.uk

UNIVERSITY OF EXETER EXETER

If you or someone you know isIf you or someone you know is coming to Exeter University andto Exeter and would like information about the city,would like information about the the corps or student home group call:the corps or student home group call: 07827 035265 or 01392 216553or

salvationarmy.org.uk/exeter-temple

REGENT HALL BRASS ARTS FESTIVAL 2022

Thursday 13 October at 7.30pm

Guards Brass and Friends

Free admission – collection – no tickets required

Friday 14 October at 1pm

Fulham Band

John Ward conductor and Tom Hutchinson cornet

Free admission – collection – no tickets required

Friday 14 October at 3pm

Royal Academy of Music presents Academy Symphonic Brass

Free admission – collection – no tickets required

Friday 14 October at 5pm

Peter Graham with the aid of the ‘On-Screen Virtual’ Black Dyke Band an introduction to his test-piece composition ‘Hyperlink’

Free admission – collection – no tickets required

Friday 14 October at 7.45pm

Tickets £20 – only from priorbooking.com/u/fodens Foden’s Band – Russell Gray conductor

Saturday 15 October at 7.30pm

Band of the Grenadier Guards

A special gala concert to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of HM The Queen

Free admission – collection – no tickets required

Sunday 16 October at 3pm

Regent Hall Band – Paul Sharman conductor

Free admission – collection – no tickets required

Tuesday 18 October at 7.30pm

Regent Hall Band invites you to – “Meet the Composer” featuring the music of Paul Sharman

An open rehearsal - Come and play or come and listen

Further details from Band Secretary Claire Ritchie: claireritchie86@gmail.com

Free admission – collection – no tickets required

Thursday 20 October at 7.30pm

Regent Hall Songster Brigade in concert with Enfield Concert Band

Mark Walton and Paul Hooper conductors

Free admission – collection – no tickets required

Friday 21 October at 1pm

RAF Brass in Concert with trumpet virtuoso Mike Lovatt

Featuring music from The Golden Age of Hollywood

Free admission – collection – no tickets required

For further details: stephenmaw@aol.com 07973 173 583

All the collections are in aid of homelessness support unit No 10 Drop-In Centre

Regent

All kinds of people attend, join, volunteer with or work for The Salvation Army. We’ve asked some to tell us about themselves. This week…

LIZ ECKERSLEY OPENSHAW

How did you first come into contact with the Army?

My very first contact was when I was about 10 years old. My friend’s family were officers, and I went to a meeting. More recently my granddaughter Daisy had been to summer school and wanted to attend a meeting.

What made you want to become an adherent?

I felt like part of the family and at peace at the corps.

What did you do before retirement?

I was an admin assistant. I always loved office work.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

I would like the opportunity to take communion – the breaking of bread.

What is your favourite kind of holiday? A beach holiday. I love the sea.

If you could be in a film, which would it be and what character would you play?

My favourite film is Ben-Hur (1959), but it isn’t a film I’d like to be in! I like films with strong female roles such as Erin Brockovich or Hidden Figures

If you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose and why?

Rosa Parks or Emmeline Pankhurst. Both were women who stood up for what they believed in.

If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be? Tea.

What sport would you compete in if you were in the Olympics? Swimming.

What is your favourite food? Any type of Indian food.

What do you do in your spare time? I volunteer at the corps job club. I also watch my grandchildren play football and do cheerleading.

Apart from English, what languages do you know? French – a little.

If you could bring back any fashion trend, what would it be?

I love the dresses from the 1920s.

What was the first record, tape or CD that you ever owned? All or Nothing by Small Faces.

What is your favourite Bible verse and why?

‘Be still, and know that I am God’ (Psalm 46:10). In a busy world with so many distractions, it’s one I cling to.

Which Bible figure would you like to meet and what would you ask them?

Mary Magdalene. I would ask: ‘What was it like to be near Jesus?’

(SASB 149)

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘My Song Is Love Unknown’ (SASB 149).

Is there something about life or the world that you’ve never understood? War and the cruelty of it all – it is senseless killing.

If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be? Definitely hate.

Did you have a nickname growing up? If so, what? Eccles cake.

If you had to be handcuffed to one person for a day, who would it be? Eric Cantona.

Apart from the Bible, which book would you want on a desert island? To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? Learn to love yourself.

What is the most valuable thing you possess? My family.

‘‘My song is love unknown, My Saviour’s love to me: Love to the loveless shown, That they might lovely be’’