15 minute read
Quotes from the media
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 News
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’…
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
SALVATIONIST
salvationist.org.uk/magazine Issue No 1878
EDITOR Major Mal Davies
MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford
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ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight, Louise Phillips
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Different people: one aim CONTENTS Quotes from the media 2
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.
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 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. 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
Members of Felixstowe Band play the national anthem at the town’s proclamation of succession
EVENT
Chatteris Bandsman Ivor Tomkinson plays the national anthem at the town’s proclamation of succession
MUSIC
Gloucester Band resumes its regular engagements at St Peter’s Church, accompanying hymns for an enthusiastic congregation
REMEMBRANCE
PETERSFIELD 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 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
A remembrance card made by Cirencester Corps Brownies is displayed in St John the Baptist Church
MEETING
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
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
COMMUNITY EVENT
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
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
OUTREACH
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
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 INTERNATIONAL
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
