Salvationist 20 August 2022

For everyone linked to The Salvation Army 70p / 20 August SALVATIONIST2022FRINGEBENEFITS

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‘CHAPLAINCY IS THE ART OF IMPROVISATION’ PAGES 12 AND 13

Black church leaders have made a joint call to the next Conservative leader to overturn the ‘hostile environment’ legislation that led to the Windrush scandal. The Tory leadership contest is down to the last two candidates, Rishi Sunak and LizInTruss…avideo by the National Church Leaders Forum, Bishop Joe Aldred [asked them:] ‘Do you promise that if you become prime minister, you will repeal the “hostile environment” legislations that were brought in from 2012 to 2016?’…

The church leaders [asked] that the next Tory leader would ‘uphold integrity and truth’ and [reminded] voting members that their vote is both a ‘privilege and a responsibility’…TheWindrush generation came to the UK from Caribbean countries between 1948 and 1971 to help rebuild the country when it was suffering from a post-World War II labour shortage. Christian Today

BLACK CHURCH LEADERS CALL ON NEXT CONSERVATIVE

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One in five key worker households has children living in poverty, new research has found.

FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Mal Davies TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN 0845 634 0101 SALVATIONIST @SalvationistOnline @SalvationistUK CONTACT US 020 7367 4890 (main) / 020 7367 4901 (editor) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk ADVERTISING advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66–78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 / subscriptions@satcol.org The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399. Issuesalvationist.org.uk/media/magazineNo1872 EDITOR Major Mal Davies MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Simon Hope, George Tanton, Lyn Woods, Major Margaret Bovey ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight, Louise Phillips PROOFREADER Chris Horne Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by CKN Print, Northampton. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory. ISSN 2516-5909. Salvationist 20 August 20222 CHILD STUDYWORKERINCREASINGPOVERTYINKEYHOUSEHOLDS,FINDS

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) study suggests the number of children growing up in poverty in key worker households has increased by 65,000 over the past two years, to nearly oneKeymillion…worker families in the North East have the highest rate of child poverty (41 per cent) followed by the North West and London (both 29 per cent) and the East of England (24 per cent)…

Lichfield Cathedral is bringing the seaside to the city this summer by creating a sand beach in front of the cathedral.Aspartof the cathedral’s summer activities Lichfield residents will be able to grab deckchairs, snacks, and drinks and relax on the city beach. Beach toys and games will be available.TheDean of Lichfield, [the] Very Rev Adrian Dorber said: ‘As Britain’s most landlocked cathedral, we want to bring an unfamiliar landscape to Lichfield…‘Ourinvitation is to come to a sacred place but come and relax and be playful. The beach will be open daily and is absolutely free as we know the cost of living crisis is hitting many families hard,’ he added.

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA MEMORIAL CROSS SURVIVES FIRE THAT SWEPT THROUGH FIELD DURING HEATWAVE When the unprecedented heatwave shattered records across England last month, a fire raged in a field in Kent but miraculously stopped when it reached the edge of a giant memorial cross etched into the earth. The large cross was carved into the field in memory of the people of Lenham who died in World War I and is white because of the chalky earth. The cross spans 61 metres by 21 metres and is maintained by Historic England…Dronefootage by The Independent shows a large area of scorched earth that stops right at the tip of the cross. The footage shows how the fire breached the parameter of the memorial and burnt part of the surrounding lawn but did not burn the cross itself, which remains intact. Christian Today

It comes as the Bank of England warned the UK is set to plunge into the longest recession since the financial crisis. Real household incomes will drop for two years in a row due to the alarming economic conditions – the first time this has happened since records began in theThe1960s.TUC warned another year of below-inflation pay rises for public sector workers will have a ‘devastating’ impact on frontline staff... Sara Ogilvie, policy director at the Child Poverty Action Group, said ‘These disastrous figures show the growing grip of in-work poverty on households across Britain.’

LEADER TO ‘RIGHT THE WRONGS’ OF WINDRUSH SCANDAL

LICHFIELD CATHEDRAL BRINGS SEASIDE TO THE CITY WITH NEW SAND BEACH

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated Yes, and... CONTENTS Quotes from the media 2 News 4 to 6 Prayer matters 6 News feature 7

A patient presence by Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts Interview 14 and 15 Not sitting on the fringes

Captains David and Jennifer Gosling talk to Ivan Radford Bible study 16 and 17

Sports and fellowship shared at Commonwealth Games ICO testimonies 10 and 11 God’s way with me Feature 12 and 13

They both remind us how easy it can be to get caught up in our own efforts to spread the gospel. We can, amid the busyness of the how, where, when and what, forget that the glory behind our successes – and our failures – belongs to God. If we don’t hold on to that, it’s a solo performance, rather than a team effort with the most empowering teammate imaginable.

Punishment and forgiveness by Major Gareth Heward Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17 by Major Jane Kimberley

Salvationists have also been active and present at the Commonwealth Games this summer, with the Aston 614 youth centre engaging in community sports ministry and Birmingham Citadel members volunteering at the event to help spectators, visitors and athletes alike. You can even read in our news pages about a Salvationist from the India Eastern Territory who took home a gold medal for weightlifting at the Games – but made sure that he wasn’t the one getting all the praise.

Chaplaincy, we read in the final entry of our series about Salvation Army chaplains, is ‘the art of improvisation’. While Major Stephen Huyton is talking about serving within a medical context, the impact of Christians being open to improvisation in their own settings is reflected in the diverse and innovative examples of engagement that are peppered across these pages – people making themselves and their talents available and praying that God works through them. You might not be able to lift weights – I certainly can’t – but you can offer a hand to hold, share a word of welcome or tell a comforting joke. Next time an opportunity presents itself, try saying this as a prayer: ‘Yes, and...’

As a professional discipline, the kind that is performed at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe each year, comedy tends to fall into one of two main categories: stand-up or improvised. Stand-up comedy, as someone smarter than me once explained it, is inherently destructive: a comedian builds a story or situation up only to undercut it with a punchline. Improvisation, on the other hand, is a constructive effort: it relies on teamwork and trust as a group builds a shared idea without undermining each other’s contributions. The fundamental principle? Every suggestion is met with the same response: ‘Yes, and...’ Also at the Fringe this year is Edinburgh City Corps, which isn’t the first Salvation Army presence at the annual arts and comedy festival and hopefully won’t be the last.

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‘This is not my power – this is the power of Jesus Christ,’ said Jeremy Lalrinnunga, before adding: ‘I ask for prayers that I will never surpass the need for God in my life.’ His humble spirit echoes the words of William Booth from April 1908, which we also print in this week’s Salvationist: ‘If you erect buildings or arrange meetings or plan special services, let all your plans be as near perfection as you can get them. But when you have done all, you must simply lay them as offerings at Jehovah’s feet.’

Growing in faith and fellowship News feature 8 and 9

COMEDY is a funny old thing – and, in the right circumstances, laughter is perhaps one of God’s greatest and most gracious gifts.

As an official Fringe venue, it’s living out that attitude of openness to build something new. With thousands of people walking past their hall this month, their response isn’t to leave the doors closed and the lights off but to say: ‘Yes, and what if we invited them in?’ They are not only hosting an exhibition and several concerts, but also providing a quiet space for reflection, refreshment and pastoral support.

The object of faith New commitments 19 From the archive 20 But will it take a double B? by Colonel David Guy Adverts 21 and 23

IVAN RADFORD Managing Editor Salvationist

Announcements 22 and 23 Quiz 24 Great Bible escapes Salvationist 20 August 2022 3

A new garden area at Hove, created by green-fingered members and volunteers, provides an outdoor extension of the corps welcome

JEREMY Lalrinnunga, of Mizoram, India Eastern Territory, claimed India’s fifth weightlifting medal of the 2022 Commonwealth Games with gold in the men’s 67kg final. General Brian Peddle joined International Secretary for South Asia Commissioner Suresh Pawar and Captain Charles Chalrimawia in a celebratory video call with the young champion, whose home corps is the Salvation Army Government Complex Corps in Aizawl, Mizoram.

The corps held an outside service at Wellhead Park. Corps officer Lieutenant Sarah O’Grady conducted the signing choir for those with hearing difficulties and visitors joined in congregational singing. Afterwards, the congregation enjoyed a picnic and fellowship together. – CG MEETING Salvationist wins gold at Commonwealth Games

SUNDERLAND MONKWEARMOUTH Representatives from South Shields, Horden and Sunderland Millfield Corps supported the annual strawberry fayre, which was organised by the songsters. The YP brass ensemble, joined by young people from Horden and Sunderland Millfield, provided music to enhance the evening. It raised more than £300 for Sunderland Royal Hospital’s neonatal ward. – JC

COMMUNITY WILLENHALL Cradley Heath Band and friends joined to host an afternoon picnic as part of the annual praise in the park event. The corps has played in the park every summer since it opened in 1923.

This year’s event was opened by Willenhall South councillor Connor Horton and included singing, timbrels, dancing, crafts, games and even glitter tattoos. Passers-by wrote prayers for the community and tied them to the railings. More than 200 invitations were given out inviting people to the summer holiday club and upcoming community drop-in. – LH-N

The General had these words for Jeremy: ‘I have prayed and thanked God for you. Anybody who pursues excellence does, in a very beautiful way, honour God. God is making you to be somebody who pursues excellence in your weightlifting and as a good soldier of Jesus. We are honoured to see you and greet you today and we pray God will continue to bless Jeremy,you.’who broke two Games records, received the General’s warm congratulations with gratitude. The 19-year-old astonished viewers with his sporting success, but made it very clear to whom the glory belongs: ‘This is not my power – this is the power of Jesus Christ.’

‘In my preparation for the Commonwealth Games, I spent time with God in personal prayer, but I’m grateful to know that my family and friends have prayed for me too,’ he said. ‘The Salvation Army and my home corps have been really supportive, and I know they have lifted me in prayer. I am certain that my success is the result of this support, and for that I am thankful. ‘The Salvation Army has been part of my family for many generations on my mother’s side, and my father joined after he married my mother, so I was born into a Christian home. My childhood was occupied with many Salvation Army activities such as corps cadets.’

Upon returning to India, Jeremy will commence training at the Neeraj Chopra Institute of Sports for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Jeremy humbly concluded the interview: ‘I ask for prayers that I will never surpass the need for God in my life.’ – LW

INTERNATIONALEVENT

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CAMBRIDGE HEATH The corps celebrated Muriel’s 25 years of service as she retired as cook. Family and friends from across the UK joined in the celebrations, and previous officers and the divisional commander sent letters of appreciation and congratulations for all that Muriel has done and achieved while in the role. One previous corps officer wrote: ‘What I remember Muriel for is her deep, genuine love for people – her role was never just a job, it was a real ministry.’ – GD

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PRESENTATION

CAMBRIDGE HEATH Corps folk worked alongside Hackney council to welcome people arriving from Ukraine at a Homes for Ukraine event. Supported by the mayor and councillors, the event provided an opportunity for new neighbours to access essential services, advice and support while forging friendships. In partnership with the council, the corps is launching a fortnightly Ukraine hub to help families access support, build community and take part in music and art sessions. – GD Cirencester Band visit a care home in Stratton as part of an open day to support the town church

COMMUNITY KIRKCALDY A holiday at home cruise, chaplained by Major Mary McDonald and supported by a team of volunteers, treated 36 guests to games, crafts, food, songs and thought-provoking epilogues. Passengers included corps folk and people from the wider community who could not take a holiday due to finance, health or ongoing concerns around Covid-19. – AM

EVENT

MUSIC

Former band members and invited friends took part in an open band practice. The event, titled Brass Berries, included a strawberry tea and raised money for the Parents Association of Children with Tumours and Leukaemia, which works with Sheffield Children’s Hospital. The hospital has been treating four-year-old Oscar, a member of the corps Winners Club. Twenty-eight musicians and fifty-four supporters attended the event, raising £570 for the charity.

BIRTHDAY HEDNESFORD The corps has started an Employment Plus service, with an employment specialist available to offer advice and help people with searching for work, preparing for job interviews and creating a CV. – AR

WOOD GREEN Adherent Peggy Bramley celebrated her 100th birthday with more than 100 people. A lifelong Christian, she spends her days telling people about Jesus, praying and singing old hymns and choruses to anyone who will listen. S he is particularly encouraging to the young people at the corps. – PK

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STAPLE HILL Guest soloist Joshua Dickens (euphonium) and Dr Rachel Milestone (vocal) joined the band for a Jubilee proms concert. Rachel is director of music at Leweston School and musical director of the Leweston Choral Society and Josh left the corps to study music at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. The evening included ‘Britannia’ and ‘Joy on the Hill’, a piece written especially for the band by Sam Shelley (Cannock), with Josh presenting ‘Czardas’ and Rachel presenting ‘Love Divine’. Brian Usher was also recognised for his 18 years of running the band league, before ‘Star Lake’ rounded off a great community evening. – VW MUSIC

MEETING Salvationist 20 August 20226 NEWS

Think of children starting school, nursery or preschool for the first time. They are beginning their journey of education, but also walking a path of adventure, friendship, growth and wonder. As they step out into the unknown, away from their carers, pray that they will know God’s arms around them, feel safe, secure and excited for the adventure that awaits.

HOMELESSNESS

WEDNESDAY 24 AUGUST

TUESDAY 23 AUGUST ‘The purple-headed mountain,/ The river running by,/ The sunset, and the morning/ That brightens up the sky’ (SASB 3). Where and how does God want to use you today? Today is a new day, Lord, filled with opportunity. Help us to use it wisely, to focus on you. Help us to relax in your presence, to listen for your word and to obediently follow where you lead.

FRIDAY 26 AUGUST

CHILDREN AND YOUTH SCHOOL FOCUS by Hayley Bailey (Bedford Congress Hall)

Pray for children moving into a new school year, that the transition will be smooth and that they will build good relationships with new teachers and classmates. As timetables and relationships change and priorities shift, ask that God will hold them close and that they will truly know their identity in Christ. A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationist.org.uk/resources

The data also highlights that 73 per cent of those living on the streets have additional needs such as addictions and mental health problems.Between April and June 2022, outreach teams recorded 2,998 individuals sleeping rough in the capital. Assistant Territorial Director for Homelessness Services (South) Major Hilarie Watchorn said: ‘We should treat these figures as a warning. Not only is it a sign that the government is drifting further from its commitment to end rough sleeping, but this could point towards a deeper homelessness crisis as the cost of living bites. ‘However, the government has made a considerable investment into homelessness services and this welcome extra support can help turn things around if increased funding of addiction and mental health support services is prioritised as part of funding planning.’

SUNDAY 21 AUGUST ‘The Lord said to Moses, “I will rain down bread from Heaven for you”’ (Exodus 16:4). Jesus, thank you for choosing to come to Earth to offer your life so that I could enjoy a relationship with God for all eternity. I thank you for the way you have blessed this division and pray for all that is to come.

– AR SKEWEN Major Lynne Collins and Divisional Prayer Co-ordinator Major Nigel Collins (Merthyr Tydfil) led Sunday meetings. They challenged the congregation to ‘increase their territory’ through prayer and witness. Paul Demery and Bandmaster Ken Batt led Sunday worship the following week. Paul took the theme But One Thing Is Needful, encouraging everyone to sit at Jesus’ feet and seek first the Kingdom of God. Ken took the theme Change and Reputation, reminding those gathered that all things are possible with God. – SL

NATURE FOCUS by Major Christine Kingscott (Assistant Secretary for Spiritual Life Development) MONDAY 22 AUGUST ‘Each little flower that opens,/ Each little bird that sings,/ He made their glowing colours,/ He made their tiny wings’ (SASB 3). Lord God, Creator of the universe, we acknowledge the beauty and splendour of your world. We look around and see the glorious array of colours which are represented in nature. We give thanks for the rich, vibrant colours of summer found in the budding flower, on the wings of a butterfly and reflected in the beauty of the rainbow. Lord of life, open our eyes and help us to be true reflections of your love.

THURSDAY 25 AUGUST ‘Everything was created through him; nothing – not one thing! – came into being without him.’ (John 1:3 The Message). As you reflect on this verse, write down five things you are thankful for, and then pray a prayer of thanksgiving to God. You are God’s creation, one of a kind, unique –be the person God created you to be.

‘The cold wind in the winter,/ The pleasant summer sun,/ The ripe fruit in the garden,/ He made them every one’ (SASB 3). Lord, we realise just how blessed we are here to have four seasons! There are so many parts of the world where people struggle to find food and shelter because of floods, earthquakes, war or famine. Help us not to grumble when the weather is cold, when the rains come or the sun beats down on us. Give us instead a thankful heart for your provision.

The Chain stats also show an acrossthe-board rise in new rough sleepers, those living on the streets and those intermittently sleeping rough.

NORTH EAST ENGLAND DIVISION FOCUS by Captains Angelique and Cor Van der Woude (Divisional Prayer Co-ordinators)

Rough sleeping on the LONDONrise ROUGH sleeping figures have jumped by 16 per cent in the past quarter compared with the same time last year, according to new Combined Homelessness and Information Network (Chain) statistics.

The London Chain figures are the only data in England that measures rough sleeping. Robust methods for recording numbers of rough sleepers for the whole country are needed so that support services can be properly planned and sufficiently funded.

SATURDAY 27 AUGUST

Angela continued: ‘People like to be outside socialising, working, meeting new people and creating friendships and bonds. Even if people do not want to garden, they will come and make cups of tea for the volunteers.‘Theyget to learn about The Salvation Army as a church and charity, and that we are there to support them if they have otherTheneeds.’carvings on the benches include a range of quotes from the Bible and inspiring messages.‘Theidea is that God works everywhere, not just inside a church building,’ explained Angela.Afew gardening club members have started attending worship on Sundays. Also in full bloom is the William Booth Community Garden at Cramlington Corps, which has focused on being an accessible space for all after the transformation of waste ground a few years ago. Corps leader Territorial Envoy Susan

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Younger said: ‘People love to come and sit here quietly and enjoy it. Others come along and do a bit of gardening. They say that it’s so peaceful and tranquil, like being in a totally different place. There are a lot of flats nearby so during the Covid-19 lockdowns, when people didn’t have access to outside space, this was invaluable.

The corps folk wanted an area accessible to everybody, so the garden has extra wide paving stones that can accommodate wheelchairs and pushchairs. They grow fruit and vegetables – including potatoes, onions, cabbage and strawberries – and sell them at the charity shop and coffee morning each Thursday.‘Thereare also placards teaching God’s messages and flowers forming a cross,’ added Territorial Envoy Susan. The gardens in both these locations demonstrate one of The Salvation Army’s territorial mission priorities – care for creation – and encourage a more responsible use of the environment. – AR

COMMUNITY gardens are providing spiritual, mental and physical respite for people in Horden and Cramlington. These outdoor spaces have been transformed, giving the community the opportunity to grow veggies, learn new skills, form friendships or just sit quietly and reflect. At Horden Corps the garden is flourishing after receiving funding from Tesco a couple of years ago. Now financially supported by local agencies it remains free for the community to use.

Growing in faith and fellowship

NORTH EAST ENGLAND Cramlington Community Garden celebrates the Platinum Jubilee Horden Community Garden

Angela Huntington, the community mission facilitator at the corps, said: ‘My vision was to get as many people as possible involved in creating and maintaining the garden. I want it to be somewhere they are proud of. If they do the work, they can reap the‘Everythingrewards. we have done, from planting things and carving the benches to laying the patio, has been done by the volunteers with professionals teaching them. We are now offering people a level 1 gardening qualification with an outside agency coming to teach them. ‘We have different zones – a wild garden, an orchard, a peace garden and a rose garden. We grow our own fruit and we’re linked with another community venture, Hub House, where our volunteers grow vegetables and bring them back for us to cook or take Organisationshome.’offering mental health support or debt advice can also meet people there in a relaxed environment.

‘It’s got a grassy area for the toddlers and a gate so they can run around safely. Brownies, Rainbows and Guides also use it for some of their training. The kids love it and call it “the secret garden” because it’s hidden away behind our car park.’

Rob O’Connor saw an advert asking for volunteers to help the West Midlands police during the Games.

Major Vic Kennedy, who works with West Midlands police as a chaplain, was asked to specialist security personnel drawn from as far afield as Australia to help with security.

‘I was fortunate to have two opportunities to volunteer,’ he explained. ‘In the days leading up to the beginning of the Games, I was a driver for a number of overseas security staff who were receiving security be responsible for chaplaincy at the police command hub. ‘They seconded 3,000 police officers from across the UK to make sure the Games were a safe environment for the athletes, visitors and residents,’ he explained.

NEWS FEATURE

Army, fire brigade, RAF and NHS commanders were joined by a host of Andrew Dickinson with volunteers Ruth Capewell with medallists

Throughout the two-week event, the West Midlands police chaplaincy team distributed around 1,500 copies of the New Testament to police officers and staff members involved in the Games, which were provided by the organisation Good News for Everyone.

‘I got to know many of these people during the Games and was seen as their padre,’ Major Vic continued. ‘We shared many spiritual conversations and our chaplaincy support was greatly valued.’

BIRMINGHAM SALVATIONISTS stepped up to share in fellowship with others at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. More than a million people attended the sporting tournament, providing volunteers with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to love God and love others through their willingness to be placed where they were needed in the city and further afield. Shortly before the Commonwealth Games started, the Aston 614 youth centre ran a sports community day for people who live near the venues but were unlikely to attend the events themselves. During the Games, Birmingham Citadel’s volunteers helped, directed, celebrated and commiserated with people. They welcomed athletes and officials at the airport and train station, helped spectators refresh and refill, and listened to people who wanted a friendlyAndrewface.Dickinson works for the local water company, which provided free and sustainable water at each of the venues during the ‘WorkingGames.forSevern Trent gave me the opportunity to volunteer at what we have called “Water Bars”,’ he explained. ‘The purpose was to reduce the number of single-use plastic bottles being used across the Games by offering free water to people with refillable water bottles.’

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Sports and fellowship shared at Commonwealth Games

‘The Commonwealth Games gave us the opportunity to share our faith in love and deed, which was a great privilege and also a huge responsibility,’ Major Vic added.

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The Allman and Selby families enjoy the Games Rob O’Connor (second from right) with the West Midlands police chief

The Games gave us andfaithtoopportunitytheshareourinlovedeed briefings to deal with major events and large crowds. Most of the overseas visitors had not been to Birmingham before so I was able to tell them about the city and how it had changed and modernised in recent years. ‘I also met the chief constable of West Midlands police and was presented with a commemorative medal marking the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.’ Rob then transferred to the logistics area, again working as a driver to take supplies to rest and refreshment areas for police officers who were on duty at different venues.

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Ruth Capewell was placed at the Athletes Village at Warwick University for events that were held outside the city in Coventry and‘ItWarwickshire.wasaprivilege and an honour to have been a volunteer, especially as I was born in Birmingham and consider myself as a Brummie!’ she said. ‘My role was in transport, initially welcoming the athletes as they arrived. Once they settled in, my colleagues and I ensured that the athletes got on the right bus to their training or competition venue and then we welcomed them back – with or without a medal – with great applause and‘Thecheering.athletes, coaches, physios and medical teams were all so friendly and were great to converse with. My highlight was sharing a pizza with some of the Samoan national team on the bus. You don’t want to mess with those guys!’ Ruth reflected on the togetherness of the Games: ‘The Games are considered to have three key values: humanity, quality and destiny. These help the Games to symbolise the coming together of the diverse group of nations in a central setting. ‘For those two and a half weeks we were all united. I pray that one day our world can be like that and we can all be at peace with oneBirminghamanother.’

Citadel corps officers Major Adrian Allman and Captain Clare Allman commented: ‘It’s been great to see areas of Birmingham buzzing with vibrant colour and energy – people were being inspired to get active and join with others in celebrating this great event! ‘Yet Birmingham 2022 is more than just the Games and we hope its legacy will leave a mark on the region for years to come. We pray that the coming together of people from so many diverse backgrounds will be a continued incentive for change and improved wellbeing across our society and that The Salvation Army will join with others in maximising these new opportunities to help continue to build better communities.’ – AR

Three delegates from the 250th session at the International College for Officers and Centre for Spiritual Life Development share their testimonies

CAPTAIN STEVEN LAVAKI Senior Training Officer Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands Territory COMING from a broken home, life was tough and miserable. Not knowing where to go or how to survive, I ended up on the streets looking for food and satisfaction. I went deeper into the world, becoming involved in drugs, prostitution and crime. I was arrested by the police and was in and out of prison. Totally lost and involved in so much evil, they called me ‘mystic man’. I thought that was enough for me. Every day I would look for money by creating problems, doing bad things just to survive. My immediate family and good friends distanced themselves. One day I felt unusual in my body. I could not cope so I slept in my bed

I was affected by severe earache for 12 years. We had done everything for my disease. When my family and I fully turned to God and we started worshipping him with a full heart, my disease went from me completely. My Jesus healed me. God blessed my education. The Salvation Army uniform influenced me. I took the decision to become an officer and dedicated myself into the hands of God. Before completing my graduation, I married Captain PB Reni and we are blessed with two girls, Evangeline and Angel. We are leading our lives with respect and love. We entered the training college in 2008 in the Prayer Warriors session. We have now completed 12 years in God’s ministry. God has given me a blessed life. These 12 years have not always been an easy journey for us, but God has given us strength and courage through prayer to overcome every situation. Every opportunity is a gift from God and I have received so many opportunities through The Salvation Army.Iam part of the women’s ministry, with activities being done at corps level. I have attended many seminars. I have written 35 articles for the Malayalam War Cry. God has also given me the great opportunity to attend the 250th ICO session. Everything is in God’s plan. He is good and faithful to me. So I am his faithful servant.   I pray to God like this every day: ‘I need your presence to strengthen me and guide me.’ Please understand that God is always faithful in his love for you.

CAPTAIN SOUMYA RENI Corps Officer, Oottukuzhy India South Western Territory

GOD has a wonderful plan for everyone. The Lord’s plan for me was to become a Salvation Army officer. It was fulfilled. I was born and raised in a poor family under Hindu culture. I had gone to many temples and worshipped other gods because of my father, who had no faith at all in God. My mother, however, had a deep faith in Jesus Christ and was a Salvation Army soldier. One day, I decided to go to the Army and, as I watched the Spirit-filled worship, I decided to become a member. After a few days, my family joined in. We felt immense joy, happiness and peace in worshipping the living God. My home corps is Aruvikkara Corps in the Nedumangadu Division.

ICO TESTIMONIES

God’s way with me

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WHAT IS THE ICO? Based at Sunbury Court, the ICO exists to further officers’ personal and Itdevelopment.leadershipisanenvironmentforthemtoflourishspirituallythroughteaching,fellowship,worshipandprayer.

MAJOR JODI LLOYD

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I was a little girl from a broken, hurting family, growing up in a small, struggling town, who never thought she would ever leave, but Jesus broke the chains in my life! He brought healing and wholeness. I am redeemed, saved by his blood, and have the privilege to serve him through The Salvation Army and go to places I never dreamt I would, including theJesusICO. has done the unimaginable in and for me. This is my story. To him be the glory!

Western Pennsylvania Division USA Eastern Territory I LOVE a good story! One of the highlights of my ICO experience is listening to my session mates’ life stories. Transformational, powerful, life-changing stories of ordinary people who are loving and serving an extraordinary God. When I think about my story, I don’t really remember a time when I didn’t know Jesus. He has always been a part of my life. I grew up in The Salvation Army. The corps was a safe place for my siblings and me. Being connected and having corps officers who loved me and kept after me, making sure I wasn’t forgotten, changed my life. I vividly remember one Sunday morning meeting at my home corps in for some weeks, hoping I would get better. I went to the hospital and had many tests. I was diagnosed with a malaria parasite. I thought my life would end. I heard a small voice speaking in my heart: ‘Steven, leave this place and go to your village.’ At once, I responded and got on a bus. The journey took nearly eight hours. That same voice kept speaking: ‘You will die unless you repent and turn away from all your evil ways’. I responded a second time, and that led me to know and understand that it was God’s Holy Spirit, whose voice saved my soul. In John 16:8 and 9 Jesus said: ‘When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgement: about sin, because people do not believe in me.’ Therefore, I made my choice to join The Salvation Army in 2000. I deeply wanted to thank God for leading me into the Army, for I received my salvation and all my iniquities and transgressions were taken by Jesus on the cross, my sins washed with his precious blood. I felt God’s forgiveness, love and care upon my life. I praise God for his plan. Jesus adds value into my life. My life is transformed – the old has gone and the new has come. I am justified through Christ and sanctified by the Holy Spirit. Alleluia and amen! God called me and my wife into his great mission to serve his people who are lost like I was. I am delighted to give my life totally to his service. Athol, Massachusetts. We sang the chorus ‘Thank You, Lord, for Saving My Soul’. I remember praying that Jesus would make me whole because I realised how broken and hurtful life couldSummerbe. camp has always been a sacred place for me. During my formative years the Lord deepened my faith at camp, summer after summer. I received leadership opportunities there. The Army’s summer camp ministry was always a vehicle God used for me to recommit my life to him. One Sunday morning at a territorial event, I remember clearly kneeling with tears pouring on the altar: ‘Lord, I’m not sure what I have to give, but I don’t want to miss out on what you have planned for me. If you want me to be a Salvation Army officer, I’m all in. I’m yours.’ My husband, Phil, and I have been officers for more than 25 years, and we have four amazing children. Being a mother is one of the sweetest blessings of my life. Our family has seen the Lord do ‘immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us’ (Ephesians 3:20).

A presencepatient

Concluding a series on Salvation Army chaplaincy in diverse settings, three healthcare chaplains tell Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts about their work

‘It has been challenging, but God’s word, 40 years of being with people going through similar dark periods and the knowledge that, as someone said, “chaplaincy is the art of improvisation”, have helped me through.’

When he retired, Stephen was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, a rare neurological condition that causes muscle weakness, but he has found this can be a positive factor. ‘It helps me minister with an empathy that’s grounded in God’s enabling grace,’ he affirms.

As the only chaplain, Stephen endeavours to visit every patient.

Major Stephen Huyton

FEATURE I Chaplains in… healthcare

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‘During their stay, which could be between two weeks and two months, I’m able to build trust and give support suitable for their faith or cultural background,’ he explains.

‘I have had a warm welcome from almost every patient and have enjoyed refreshing conversations, with opportunities for prayer or counselling support with atheists, Muslims, Jews and a Jehovah’s Witness.

DURING the first Covid-19 lockdown of 2020 people across the UK stepped out onto their doorsteps, drives and balconies on Thursday evenings to ‘clap for carers’. Healthcare staff were under enormous pressure as they dealt with a surge in coronavirus cases and they valued this moral support from the public. Behind the scenes another kind of support was, and continues to be, valued: the spiritual and pastoral ministry of healthcare chaplains. In 2016 Major Stephen Huyton retired after 38 years serving in social services and corps appointments, along with divisional, ecumenical and emergency response roles, and became busily involved at Worthing Corps. A few months after the pandemic began, he was asked to become a chaplain at Zachary Merton Community Hospital in the village where he lives. He spent three months visiting patients and staff, while taking part in online training, before his role as chaplain at the 26-bed rehabilitation unit was formalised. ‘The most encouraging confirmation of my new calling was the welcome and support from hospital staff and patients,’ says Stephen. ‘Also, I had a growing appreciation that the breadth of my officer experience had equipped me for the role. This has been enriched further through additional training, including as a mental health first aider.’ The pandemic brought restrictions on hospital visits and altered the way staff and chaplains worked: ‘I had to adjust to wearing PPE – protective aprons, gloves and visors – and changing it after each patient visit. I found myself supporting patients experiencing the loss of close family and friends, and some who were unable to attend the funerals. Patients also mourned not being able to attend their church, not receiving visits by church or faith leaders or being unable to receive the sacraments according to their tradition.’

Major Jonathan Greetham with ambulance crew Major Ann Stewart

Ann is also grateful for the privilege of chaplaincy: ‘It feels fulfilling and rewarding when you know someone has appreciated your visit or prayer.’

Territorial Ecumenical Officer THQ

Jonathan sees his work as ‘a ministry of hope’, which includes daily requests from personnel for prayer and support.

JONATHANLIEUT-COLONELROBERTS

Stephen agrees: ‘I have found it most humbling to be a listening ear and a ministering agent of prayer, and sometimes to offer a comforting hand to hold – even through blue latex gloves!’

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‘There are many opportunities to speak of faith,’ he says. ‘And when people tell me they have no faith, my thought is, “Once we park that, the real work starts,” and conversations open up. I believe my chaplaincy brings Christ to the ambulance bays and the crew rooms.’

‘Chaplaincy is a huge privilege,’ he asserts. ‘It’s a great gift from God as he allows me to use the skills he has blessed me with to walk with others and share their stories.’

Major Ann Stewart was appointed corps officer at Horsham in 2012, but within a few years she felt the need to broaden her work. ‘About seven years ago I was praying for a way forward,’ she recalls. ‘I did a spiritual gifts questionnaire and with the results came the suggestion of becoming a chaplain. I contacted the local hospital chaplain and he told me he was just about to put a request around the churches for new volunteer chaplains, so I met up with him and offered to do the training.’

Jonathan recently received the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal for services to the South Western Ambulance Service, but his greatest reward is the work itself.

Ann is now the lead chaplain there and goes to the hospital each week, visiting a small ward with mainly older people who need rehabilitation. ‘It is similar to the pastoral care I give my corps folk,’ she says. ‘Most of the time I am welcomed by patients and staff, and they are happy to have a chat. Occasionally people tell me they are “not religious” but when they see my Salvation Army badge, they are happy to talk. When appropriate I will pray withMajorthem.’Jonathan Greetham (Swanage) has been involved with St John Ambulance since his teens. Drawing on six years’ experience in the RAF Medical Services before becoming a Salvation Army officer, he has been a volunteer frontline community responder with South Western Ambulance Service since 2014. In both these spheres Jonathan has developed an informal chaplaincy role by making himself available to personnel and other volunteers. He now also has a formal position as assistant county chaplain for St John Ambulance in East Dorset. ‘It involves visits to St John Ambulance units and being available for county events,’ he explains. ‘I also visit six ambulance stations and do crew visits to the A&E ambulance bays at Bournemouth and Poole hospitals. I respond to post-trauma calls as well, when crews have had a particularly difficult experience, and support families of crew members in a welfare and chaplaincy role.’

WHAT KIND OF AUDIENCE TURNOUT DO YOU GET?

DG We’re doing something very different: a city walk hosted by Major Alison Raybould (pictured top-right), the anti-trafficking and modern slavery co-ordinator for Scotland. It links into the history and modern experiences of slavery and oppression. JG She led a meeting to set the context for the corps and a group of us went on

NO NOTT SI T T SITTINGING ON T HE FRINGESTHE INTERVIEW

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JG We’ve got three concerts, two choirs and a brass band, which all have a connection in some way or have been before. And an art and photography exhibition, in partnership with Bethany Christian Trust, a homelessness charity.

With the Edinburgh Festival Fringe back in person this year, Captains David and Jennifer Gosling tell Ivan Radford why Edinburgh City Corps is opening its doors

DG Our afternoon teas always go down well – we’ve had people say we have better scones than the Ritz! ARE YOU HOSTING ANYTHING NEW?

JG We have the say over whether things happen in the hall or not, because we want it to stay within our mission. We want to be sure that we’re sending the right messages, that it’s gospel-based in some kind of way. Sometimes external groups, such as theatre companies, come to us and, if it fits, we work with them. The musical concerts we host are generally with people connected to us.

A FTER the challenges of the past two years, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe has returned. Running until 29 August, the festival’s 75th edition is a showcase for more than 3,000 shows, from theatre and comedy to music and dance. At the heart of the hubbub – opposite the famous Pleasance Courtyard – is Edinburgh City Corps, which hosts events as an official Fringe venue: Venue 405. Providing a space for calm and hospitality as well as culture, corps officers Captains David and Jennifer Gosling explain the mission behind their innovative ministry: WHEN DID YOU START YOUR OUTREACH AT THE FRINGE? DG I think the first dates recording something at this corps are in the late 1980s. I remember there being things in the mid-1990s, because I came up for one of them. Otherwise there have been a handful of things, largely done through THQ or DHQ with some occasional smaller corps initiatives. When we were appointed to the corps in 2015, we looked out the window at the 1,000 people walking past the building and queuing across the road at the big venue there. We knew we needed to do something bold and present. We’ve managed to do something every year since – apart from, obviously, the past couple of years. The Fringe is now an integral part of our annual corps programme, and corps folk are used to rolling up their sleeves in August!

YOU’RE AN OFFICIAL FRINGE VENUE. DO ACTS APPROACH YOU?

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS YEAR?

DG It depends on the event. The anecdotal legend of the Fringe is that the average attendance is four to six people, and we’ve had more than that! In recent years, we estimate that 1,200 to 1,500 people came through the doors over two and a half weeks. It’s a huge number.

JG Theatre events can sometimes vary in attendance, but hospitality works well, because people are always after coffee and a cake – and the Army is good at that!

SALVATION ARMY FREEDOM WALK Until 26 August (select dates) 11am, 2pm A free, family-friendly guided walk with stories linked to the Army’s work supporting survivors of human trafficking and modern slavery.

The traditional mining village brass band from the outskirts of Edinburgh returns to the Fringe after a sell-out concert in 2019.

DG It’s our main Fringe innovation. It started in 2019 and we’re doing it again this year for the second time. We’d worked with Pleasance Courtyard, the venue across the road, a couple of years before when we hosted a play. They remembered we were friendly and asked if we could provide a quiet space for performers and staff. They realised that people come to the Fringe, bringing their life’s work with them, and can get really stressed. Last time, by the end of the festival, people had heard about it and were coming in to sit or sleep. There was a reviewer who sat for three hours just to get away, people who’d seen a performance and needed to process it – they were all grateful. Pleasance has given us a bit of funding to help with it, even though we said we didn’t need anything, and is promoting it.

QUIET SPACE Until 27 August 11am to 4.30pm A space for Fringe performers and staff to escape the busyness of the festival, providing an opportunity to recharge, relax and refresh. For more information, visit TheSalvationArmyFringeEventsfacebook.com/

the walk. There’s a map, how to spot signs of modern slavery and information about the Army’s work.

Founded in 1947 at the Rose Street Telephone Exchange, the choir makes its Fringe debut, performing in its weekly rehearsal venue.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE QUIET SPACE YOU ALSO PROVIDE?

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The NHS Fife staff choir sings for pleasure and to restore souls.

DG We have to jump in with what’s happening in our communities, not close the doors and ignore it. We simply want to welcome people into our church and give them a taste of the Kingdom of God, in addition to the coffee and cake!

EDINBURGH TELEPHONE CHOIR IN CONCERT 20 7pmAugust

DG We’ve managed to put together a roster with some of the other officers in the division to provide chaplaincy support. The chaplain is there to host the room, keep it tidy, restock the tea and coffee…

DO YOU PROVIDE GUESTS WITH PASTORAL SUPPORT?

WHO I AM EXHIBITION Until 26 August (select dates) 11am to 5pm The Bugle, written by people who have used the Bethany Christian Trust’s homelessness services, presents contributors’ work alongside photos from Ciara Menzies.

JG It’s joining in and not separating yourself. It’s also a bit of a fundraiser for our community work – that primarily goes towards our debt advice service.

WHAT IMPACT DO YOU SEE FROM BEING AT THE FRINGE?

JG Some people need somebody to talk to, others just want to be left alone. It’s working out which of those things is needed. It’s fine either way.

DG It’s to be a place of welcome, to be seen to be present for people to come in and have a rest, and see where conversations lead. That can lead to people learning about the Army, learning that we’re a church, finding out if there’s an Army link in their town and having conversations about faith and Jesus. The Fringe is an opportunity to really open the doors.

VINTAGE AFTERNOON TEAS 21–27 August 1pm to 5pm Sandwiches, sweet treats and unlimited tea and coffee for £5.

NHS FIFE: HEALTHY HARMONIES IN CONCERT 27 7.30pmAugust

WHAT’S ON AT VENUE 405?

NEWTONGRANGE SILVER BAND IN CONCERT 28 7.30pmAugust

MajorGarethHewar

QUESTIONS Read verse 18. Does this reflect your understanding of God? How are love and forgiveness compatible with punishment? Today’s reader might gladly accept God’s love and forgiveness but balk at the thought of punishment. The teaching of Jesus offers forgiveness for sins. The doctrine of the atonement demonstrates that the cross is effectual in this.

PICTURE the scene: Having left behind years of slavery and maltreatment, passed through the Red Sea and crossed the Sinai Peninsula, the Israelites reach the borders of the Promised Land. Moses appoints 12 men to explore the towns and cities ahead (see Numbers 13). Joshua and Caleb return bearing fruit and declare the Promised Land to be fertile and flowing with milk and honey. The other 10 men, however, speak of overwhelming challenges, fortified cities and giant inhabitants. Given the conflicting reports, the Israelites decide to believe the nervous analysis from the ten rather than the fruitful evidence of the two. They then declare rebellion against Moses, plotting to appoint a new leader and return to ThisEgypt.is not new behaviour from the group. When they saw the Egyptian army at their backs (see Exodus 14), when food ran short (see Exodus 16) and when water was scarce (see Exodus 17), they longed for Egypt. The prospect of difficulties ahead outweighs their memories of everything they have previously suffered. Joshua and Caleb are in despair and try to dissuade them: ‘If the Lord is pleased with us, he will lead us… Do not rebel against the Lord’ (vv8 and 9).

youDearPrayerLord,thankbecauseyouhave a perfect plan for my life. Forgive me for rebellious thoughts and actions and lead me back to the centre of your will.

Through the week with Salvationist – a thoughtdevotionalforeach day by Major Jane Kimberley (see Numbers 11) but this seems to be of little comfort. Their open contempt brings the anger of God. Moses begins a dialogue with God, who is angry at the people’s rebellion and threatens to destroy them. Moses pleads and intercedes on their behalf, wanting to protect God’s reputation among the nations. He knows that God has every right to punish but asks for forgiveness.

Punishmentforgivenessand

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BIBLE STUDY

Major Gareth Heward reminds us that rebellion against God is never without consequence

TUESDAY God sets the lonely in families, he leads out the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land.(Psalm 68:6)

SUNDAY The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him. (Daniel 9:9) MONDAY Saviour, if my feet have faltered/ On the pathway of the cross,/ If my purposes have altered/ Or my gold be mixed with dross,/ O forbid me not thy service,/ Keep me yet in thy employ,/ Pass me through a sterner cleansing/ If I may but give thee joy! (SASB 672)

QUESTIONS Which is a more attractive prospect – returning to the past or stepping into theWhyfuture?isthat?Thosewhorebel against Moses are also rebelling against God, who has led this vast company by a pillar of cloud and fire (see Numbers 9). He has provided them with manna and quail

QUESTION What choices have you made that affect others? The verdict is delivered. Everyone counted in the census recorded in Numbers 1 – all men of fighting age, of 20 years and above – will die in the wilderness. Each of the 40 days the spies explored the Promised Land will result in a year of wandering (see v34). The spies who failed to recognise that God would have overcome the obstacles that they reported are immediately struck down and die of plague (see v37). When Moses explains this, the Israelites recognise their sin. They try to put things right according to their own thinking. Sadly, the response is to once again ignore God. They attempt an assault on the ‘land the Lord promised’ (v40) but God is not with them in this because he has already outlined his judgement. Their attempt fails. Hopefully, few readers of this study will be in open rebellion against God. Some, though, might be questioning the direction set by their leaders. Others might be leaders who are seeking to discern the will of God for themselves and those in their care. Still others might be dealing with the regretful consequences of choices they have made. In each of these situations, we are encouraged to seek God and dialogue with one another, remembering: ‘The Lord is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished’ (v18).

MAJOR GARETH HEWARD Corps Officer Gloucester

WEDNESDAY Have I worked for hireling wages,/ Or as one with vows to keep,/ With a heart whose love engages/ Life or death, to save the sheep?/ All is known to thee, my Master,/ All is known, and that is why/ I can work and wait the verdict/ Of thy kind but searching eye. (SASB 672) FRIDAY I must love thee, love must rule me,/ Springing up and flowing forth/ From a childlike heart within me,/ Or my work is nothing worth./ Love with passion and with patience,/ Love with principle and fire,/ Love with heart and mind and utterance,/ Serving Christ my one desire.(SASB 672) SATURDAY In accordance with your great love, forgive the sin of these people, just as you have pardoned them from the time they left Egypt until now. (Numbers 14:19) THURSDAY How often they rebelled against him in the wilderness and grieved him in the wasteland!(Psalm 78:40) Psalm 103:17 develops this teaching and includes this reminder: ‘But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear him.’

As songwriter Eliza Read put it: I heard of a Saviour whose love was so great That he laid down his life on the tree; The thorns they were pierced on his beautiful brow To pardon a rebel like me. (SASB 465)

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QUESTION How eager are you to accept – and act on – God’s promises? However, rebellion against God is never without consequence. An individual who wilfully acts against God might find the consequences of their choices echoing in their own lives and in those of succeeding generations.

corps to be read in Sunday meetings

The objectof faith

IN my last message I tried to show you what a simple thing faith is. I hope you understood that Jesus Christ asked neither more nor less than that we should have the same simple confidence in God and his word that we place in each other in matters of everyday life. Now, I remark that the object of true, overcoming faith is God himself. The confidence that moves the mountains of misery and vice, that raises to life the dead in trespasses and sins, that makes us the masters of passion and pride, and lifts us up to walk in the way of holiness is faith in God alone. It is true you will have to take your part in working out your own salvation and the salvation of those around you, up to the level of your ability. Still, after all that you can say or do, the faith that is wanted is the simple taking of God at his word and the unquestioning reliance of your heart onThehim.faith you require means more than confidence in the means to be employed for effecting salvation. The means you may adopt or the instruments you may employ may be good, but without God they are of no service. Indeed, instead of these things leading people to rely on God, they often lead them away to trusting in themselves. Do not many people fail at this point? They think they are exercising a belief in their heavenly Father’s care, when all the time they are simply trusting to the provision they have made for their ownYousecurity.willhave heard, perhaps, of the woman who, when the captain during a storm at sea announced that the passengers must trust in God as he could do no more for them, exclaimed, ‘Goodness gracious! Has it come to that?’ This woman had, no doubt, been fancying throughout the voyage that she trusted for protection to her heavenly Father, but when faced with the fact that only the power and pity of Jehovah stood between her and destruction, she voiced her real distrust of him in the despairing cry, ‘Goodness gracious! Has it come to Thethat?’same mistake is made by many people with respect to the means employed for effecting their salvation. Instead of trusting in God they rely on their Bibles, their prayers, their ceremonies or their sacraments. They go through these with little reverence for God or concern about themselves. Such people convert means that are good in themselves into a positive curse by putting them in the place of God. Are we Salvationists not in danger of a similar evil? Is not their faith for congregations and money and souls and other successes often centred in their officers or their buildings? Do they not trust in their singing or their praying or something else that they do themselves, or get done for them by others, rather than in the work of the Holy Spirit and the power of God? When weary with the anxieties of life, cast down by its temptations and disappointed in their efforts to accomplish the salvation of the people, do they not too often look for comfort and for deliverance to human agents? Are they not thereby revealing the melancholy fact that their confidence is in humanity rather than in their God? Yet we are the people who proclaim on the housetops that salvation is of the Lord. We say that it is God who saves, that it is God who keeps and that according to the measure of our faith in him will be the measure of our success. Let us strive, therefore, more earnestly than ever to look direct to God and rely onYouhim.must go on using means to promote the temporal and eternal welfare of yourselves and those around you. If you erect buildings or arrange meetings or plan special services, let all your plans and performances be as near perfection as you can get them. But when you have done all, you must simply lay them as offerings at Jehovah’s feet. You must trust for success, not to any efforts you have put forth, but to the direct blessing of the living God. Such has been the faith of all the mighty men and women of God. They laid their plans, framed their laws, commanded their people, fought their battles, laid down their lives – but in all and through all, their courage, strength and victory came through believing God for all time. These mighty warriors endured because they saw him who is invisible to human eyes. Their faith rose above the things of Earth and sense; and so, even when deserted by every other support, they conquered by their faith in God. Believe, my comrades, believe! Let each one of you have the same faith in God, and you shall have the same victory. a monthly series of messages that William Booth sent to

Continuing

A WORD FROM WILLIAM 26 APRIL 1908 Salvationist 20 August 202218

CRADLEY HEATH

LEIGH-ON-SEA Serena, Isobel and William were enrolled as junior soldiers by Lieut-Colonel George Pilkington. They are pictured with Alison Marjurum, who led them through junior soldier classes. – PJ

During the corps anniversary celebrations in June, Andrea Homer was enrolled as a soldier, Jeff Ashman was welcomed as an adherent and Angela Thorton was congratulated for completing the To Serve material. All three had responded to an invitation from friends or family members and the congregation was challenged to carry on inviting people. Angela, Andrea and Jeff are pictured with corps officers Majors Joy and David Stephenson. – DS

KILBIRNIE Aimee MacKenzie was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Matthew Bennett. Aimee testified that her Christian journey began when she was aged four, after she found a storybook at home about Jesus. At the recommencement of Sunday worship after Covid-19 restrictions, Aimee began attending the corps and declared her commitment to The Salvation Army. Pictured with Aimee and Major Matthew are Aimee’s prayer partner, Anona Lyons, and Tom Fagan, who is holding the flag. – MB

COWDENBEATH Caroline Burt was enrolled as a soldier and is pictured with then corps officer Lieutenant Karen Thomas and Corps Secretary Norman O’Malley. Caroline prayed that God would continue to bless her life and that she would continue to be a blessing to other people. She was supported on her special day by many friends. – KT

PARKHEAD When the corps reopened after Covid-19 restrictions, Evangeline Kingsley Grace began attending meetings. Despite going through difficult times in the past year, Evangeline knew that the fellowship held her up in prayer and love. To signify her commitment to The Salvation Army, corps officers Majors Colin and Denise Bradshaw welcomed Evangeline as an adherent in June. Evangeline’s mother and aunt travelled from Belfast to support her. She chose to finish her testimony with the song ‘What a Friend We Have in Jesus’ (SASB 795). She is pictured with Majors Colin and Denise and Colour Sergeant Tom Combe. – AD

Salvationist 20 August 2022 19 NEW COMMITMENTS

Buttheyhaveasecretknownto theirMasterwhobecamepoorthat theythroughhispovertymight becometrulyrich.Anditisasecret sharedbyhisfollowerslikeStFrancis, MarySlessorandGeorgeScott Railton.

Itresultedinaconformitywhich wasoftenthoughtlessandjoylessand itopenedanunnecessarilywidegap attimesbetweenChristiansandthose theywishedtoreachwiththegospel. Thatgapisstillthere,eventhoughthe 20thcenturyhasseenthosewho professChristianfaithbendingover backwardstolookandsoundliketheir unconvertedneighboursandtotake onboardasmuchworldlywealthand secularcultureastheycanmanage.

Nowthereisayoungmanwitha distinctlySalvationistsetofpriorities!

Itistypicalofthelate20thcentury towanttohaveyourcakeandeatit,a consequenceperhapsofsomeofthe religiousthoughtofthe’60s,which boileddowntoabeliefthatyoucould beaChristianwithoutgivingup anythingyoureallyfancied.

Pictureposedbymodels FROM ARCHIVETHE

TheresultwasaChristianity withoutacross–notonlyintheology andpreachingbutalsoinlifestyle.Itis noticeablethatthishasnotendeared religiontothesecularworld,which appearssingularlyunimpressedby easy,unremarkable,one-of-the-gang religion.

Salvationist 20 August 202220 GuyThoughts

Genuinereligionalwaysseems obvioustothosewhopractiseit

Railton.

bandsmanwhogave twoofficersaliftinhis car.Thiskindlyact followedameetingin whichthebandsmanhadhelped toprovidetheessentialoom-pah, oom-pahofthebasssection,so oneofficertoldtheother:‘Youwill havetosharethebackseatwith thedoubleB.’ ‘Notatall,’saidthebandsmanchauffeur,‘mydoubleBfitsintothe bootofthecar.Lasttimewewentto chooseanewcarItoldmywife,“It musthaveabootbigenoughtotake mybass.Nocarisofanyusetomeif itcan’tdothat.”’

Havingpressedabuttononthe steeringwheel,thedriverofthelatest horselesscarriagecannowsay:‘CD trackseven.’Thecarwillrepeatthe command,thenthechosenCDwill commenceatthechosentrack.Press anotherbuttonandutteranotherorder andanotherservicewillbeprovided–IcannotrememberwhatitwasbutI knowitwasequallyimpressive. Nodoubtsomepeoplewillpart withafortunetoimpresstheirfriends andenemiesbypossessingsucha car.ButmySalvationistdriverwould haveasked,‘Howbigistheboot?’ Hisprioritiesaredifferent. Thisistremendouslyencouraging. Timewaswhenthecontrastbetween thegoalsofreligiouspeopleandthe baublestheirreligioussoughttograsp wasspelledoutbyakindof evangelicalcounter-culture.Some Christiansseemedtogooutoftheir waytodemonstratetheywere strangersandpilgrimsontheearth andmarchedtoadifferentdrummer. Thiswasseeninappearance. Salvationistsweremarkedoutbytheir uniform,butthedressofadissenting ministerinthe19thcenturymadehim immediatelyrecognisable,asdidthe garbofaQuakeralittleearlier. Leisurepursuitsweredifferentand worldlyambition(asgenerally defined)wassuspect.

Fromthemonasticordersintheir earlydays,thefriarsintheMiddle Ages,reformersandrevivalistsoflater centuries,totheBooth-Tuckersand SchweitzersandMotherTeresasof morerecentdaystherehavebeena hostofpeoplewhocouldsing‘Ihave givenupallforJesus;Thisvainworld isnoughttome’andmeanitinterms ofseriousdiscipleshipandnotofdour andpurposelesspuritanism. Ofcoursetheyareajokeanda mysterytothosewhosephilosophyis entirelymaterialisticorthis-worldly, andtheyareanembarrassmentto thosebelieverswhomaketoomany compromisesforpower,profitor comfort.

by Colonel DAVID GUY(R)

RECENTLYIheardofa

Thatremindsme,thebandsman’s nameis…no,Iwon’tdiscloseit,for hemightbeembarrassed.Certainly nothingwouldhavebeenfurtherfrom hismindwhenhemadehisstatement aboutpurchasinganewcarthanthat itshouldprovideasubjectforan articlein Salvationist Tohimthepriorityofabigboot wouldnotappearanything remarkable.Forhimtheparamount claimsofChristianservicerepresenta principletooobvioustocallforeither noticeordebate.Genuinereligion alwaysseemseverydayandobvious tothosewhopractiseit. ‘Yousayyouareastonishedby myhumility,’saidTeresaofAvila. ‘PerhapsIamhumble–buttomeitis justplaincommonsense.’ Alas,theChristianmindsetisnot thatcommon–andisthereforethe moreinspiringandwelcomewhen itisencountered.

Butwill ittakea doubleB? ‘ ’

Thatremindsme,thebandsman’s nameis…no,Iwon’tdiscloseit,for hemightbeembarrassed.Certainly nothingwouldhavebeenfurtherfrom hismindwhenhemadehisstatement aboutpurchasinganewcarthanthat itshouldprovideasubjectforan articlein Salvationist Tohimthepriorityofabigboot wouldnotappearanything remarkable.Forhimtheparamount claimsofChristianservicerepresenta principletooobvioustocallforeither noticeordebate.Genuinereligion alwaysseemseverydayandobvious tothosewhopractiseit. ‘Yousayyouareastonishedby myhumility,’saidTeresaofAvila. ‘PerhapsIamhumble–buttomeitis justplaincommonsense.’ Alas,theChristianmindsetisnot thatcommon–andisthereforethe moreinspiringandwelcomewhen itisencountered.

ThroughoutChristianhistorythere hasbeenarecognitionthatfollowing Jesusentailsacceptinganalternative anddifferentwayoflifewhichwill invariablybemarkedbysimplicity, oftenbyausterityandthedismissing asirrelevantofsomeofthegoalsand goodiessoimportanttothechildrenof thisworld.

Colonel David Guy was promoted to Glory on 2 August; this article first appeared in the 28 November 1998 Salvationist

IsupposeIwasthemore impressedbecauseIwastoldofthis themorningafterseeingatelevision reportonamotorshowwherenew modelsweredisplayedwithsome alarmingnewpossibilities.Foramere fortune,welearned,thepurchaserof a1998automobilecanrejoicein technologywhichenableshimto pressabuttonandthencommandhis carbywordofmouth(Ilienot).

ADVERTS Salvationist 20 August 2022 21

As the community programme manager, you will: Be accountable for all people-related activities of your direct reports (recruitment, performance management, learning and development) – it is essential that you can demonstrate experience of this Oversee and run all aspects of the drop-in service, charity shop, food bank service and café Provide ongoing pastoral and spiritual support to members of the community, and lead regular worship and prayer Contributesessionssignificantly to the development, monitoring and reporting of overall operational objectives Be an active and visible leader within both the corps and the wider community Establish and maintain effective working relationships with all stakeholders Be accountable for the effective management of the corps finances Be responsible for ensuring that the corps buildings are suitably managed, maintained and equipped Managing an effective volunteer programme This role has an occupational requirement that the successful candidate is a committed and practising Christian in sympathy with the doctrines of, and supportive of the purposes and the aims and objectives of, The Salvation Army. For further details and to apply please visit: salvationarmy.org.uk/jobs Appointment subject to satisfactory references, proof of right to work in the UK, and an enhanced DBS disclosure. CVs will not be accepted. Promoting equality

We are looking for an experienced community programme manager. We aim to serve and support those in the local and wider community irrespective of their background. With a view to growing our engagement with the community, we have created this role to help us deliver a wider and more exciting range of programmes within our hall, café and charity shop.

in the workplace. SALARY £13.73 per hour WORKING HOURS 25 hours per week CONTRACT Permanent DETAILS 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays; a contributory pension scheme; season ticket loan; an assistanceemployeeprogramme CLOSING DATE 21 August INTERVIEW DATE To be confirmed As a disability confident scheme employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy. COMMUNITY PROGRAMME MANAGER NEWPORT CITADEL RECRUITING NOW 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 RSA 100 – A CELEBRATION Saturday 24 September 7pm St John’s Smith Square, London The International Staff Band and The International Staff Songsters A musical celebration of the life and works of Ray Steadman-Allen. Along with guest speakers, this will be an evening of celebration that you will not want to miss. TICKETS NOW ON SALE: sjss.org.uk 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.

Years later, Carol married Ron Purvis, a postmaster. She worked alongside Ron and rejoined The Salvation Army at Winlaton. Following Winlaton’s closure in 2012, Carol and her friends transferred to Newcastle City Temple, becoming members of the ladies’ fellowship there.

David

,

Major Mervin Baker from Cheltenham General Hospital on 2 August David Guy from Princess Royal University Hospital on 2 August Roy Hughes, Nelson, on 6 August Webber, Canterbury, on 7 August

,

,

,

BERYL REDDITCHWAREING, BERYL inspire,1960s.motherleagueattendingstartedthehomeasayoungintheearlyHerabilitytoguideand be an advocate for young people was recognised by Envoy Mary Pinfield. Beryl established a Sunday school and a thriving youth club at Crabbs Cross and began preaching at local corps, including Stirchley in her native south Birmingham. Having transferred to Redditch in the early 1980s, Beryl became secretary of the newly formed League of Mercy, which provided a range of welfare services to disadvantaged and vulnerable people in need within a rapidly expanding ‘new town’.

SL Maurice

Major Mervin Baker, Julian Baker and Kerry Baker of their father Colonel Kathleen Guy of her husband Colonel David Guy

TRIBUTES

DAVID CHURCHILL, COTTENHAM

(85 on 29 August) PROMOTED

CAROL CITYNEWCASTLEPURVIS,TEMPLE

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Blue

(65th) Songster

,

CAROL was born on 15 December 1935 in Newcastle and was raised in Blaydon. She married Billy Allinson in the 1950s but their marriage was shortlived when he tragically passed away. She found love again when she married Stanley Gee in 1968 and had her only son, Andrew. Sadly, Stanley passed away when Andrew was only 21 months old.

BEREAVEDMajorMargaret Baker of her husband

,

Evelyn

Carol was a lovely lady who suffered numerous health setbacks preventing her attending the Army. She will be sorely missed by her family and friends at Newcastle City Temple. They thank Carol for her dedication to the Army and the Lord over so many years. – BI

August) Alice

Howarth, Training Principal, Uganda Territory Major Janet Howarth, Theological Formation Co-ordinator, OTC, Uganda Territory LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED DE Kay Roper, West Scotland Division MARRIAGESAliceMcGrail to Songster Wesley Blackshaw at Winton by

DAVID was born and raised in Bristol. As a young man he came to Cottenham, where he met Doreen Young. They were married in 1954 and returned to Bristol for the early years of their marriage. On the death of Doreen’s stepmother, they returned to Cottenham so that Doreen could care for her elderly father. David enjoyed helping out with all corps activities, taking a special interest in the coffee mornings. He was an accomplished pianist and is best remembered for his service in the trombone and bass sections. During the final years of his life, he was registered as blind but was still able to play, having that rare gift of knowing every part by heart. He continued to play in the band until 2020 when Covid-19 curtailed that ministry. He was promoted to Glory at the age of 89. – BB

August) Betty

Beryl and her husband, Tom, raised four sons and had numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nephews and nieces. Tom, also a Salvationist, was promoted to Glory in 2013. Beryl was promoted to Glory on 27 June 2022. They are now ‘united with Christ, which is far better’. – MW MARY IPSWICHGLADWELL,CITADEL MARY was born on 18 July 1936 in Ipswich. One of her neighbours was the corps sergeant-major and his family brought Mary to the corps when she was three years old. Mary loved the Army and became a member of the sunbeams and the life-saving guards. She married Stan Gladwell on 9 August 1958 at Ipswich Citadel. Stan had many roles in the corps and Mary was very supportive and fully understanding of his commitment. Mary was a member of the songsters and ladies’ fellowship.

September) Golden Alan

(31 August) Diamond Ann

She suffered ill health for many years, but always spent time with Stan each morning, taking comfort from reading the Bible. In June 2017 Stan was promoted to Glory but Mary continued to come to Sunday meetings and the luncheon club eachMaryweek.didn’t always find life easy, but two things kept her going – a family full of love and a love of God.

, Swadlincote (2 September) RETIRED OFFICERS’ BIRTHDAYS Major

Salvationist 20 August 202222 ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE Zambia, Mon 15 Aug – Sun 21 Ghana, Mon 22 – Tue 30 Spain and Portugal Command, Thu 1 Sep – Sun 4 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL WBC (Servants of God sessional reunion), Fri 2 Sep – Sun 4

Colonel

Thomas

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTED Effective 25 October

Major David Majors Claire and Jamie Hill sapphire Audrey Mayes and Rtd Mayes Woking (24 and Les Dean Wellingborough and Peter Ware Skewen (25 and Neil Joyce Boston (8 and Idamay Poole Russell King TO GLORY Reid Edinburgh Gorgie Houston Nelson

– DC

Salvationist 20 August 2022 23

11.

There is an occupational requirement for a practising Christian for this post and the successful candidate must be able to work within The Salvation Army’s Christian ethos and key values: integrity, accountability, compassion, passion, boldness and respect.

SALARY £27,217– £29,650 per annum dependent on experience WORKING HOURS 35 hours per week

6.

MANAGERCOMMUNITY BROMLEY TEMPLE RECRUITING NOW in Norway. A divisional role followed in 1981, as Major Margaret was appointed DDWO, Western Division. In November 1985, she returned to THQ as territorial secretary for women’s organisations, now with the rank of lieut-colonel. In 1990 Colonel Margaret was appointed territorial president of women’s ministries for Denmark and Greenland. A move to IHQ came in 1992, when she was appointed secretary for women’s organisations in Europe. She served for two years before returning to the Norway, Iceland and the Færoes Territory as territorial president of women’s ministries. Commissioners Margaret and Edward entered retirement on 1 January 2000. Commissioner Edward was promoted to Glory on 14 September 2021. Commissioner Margaret was promoted to Glory on 14 June 2022. The Salvation Army family thanks God for her service. The Army offers condolences and assurance of prayers to their three children, Major Ann Pender, Edward Andrew Hannevik and John Philip Hannevik, and their families. – AR

MARGARET Moody was born in January 1937 and entered the International Training College from her home corps of Newfield in 1955. She was commissioned in 1956 and appointed to Salford, where she remained for one year before she transferred to the Norway, Iceland and Færoes Territory to take an appointment at InStord.June 1958, Lieutenant Margaret married Lieutenant Edward Hannevik and they continued a shared ministry as corps officers in Ytre Arna, Sauda, Kopervik and Kragero until February 1963. An appointment at THQ in Norway was followed in 1967 by a divisional appointment in northern Norway, where they remained until 1970. At this point Captain Margaret and her husband returned to the UK, where they led Cardiff Canton. They received the rank of major in September 1970. After just over three years, they returned to Norway and to the Oplanske Division, where she served as divisional home league secretary and divisional secretary.January 1978 brought a move to THQ Paul(2Corinthians11:33) Joseph(Genesis37:23–28) Egypt Noah(Genesis7:7) Moses(Exodus2:1–10) JonathanandDavid (1Samuel20) Rahab Anearthquake(Acts16:16–34) Daniel(Daniel6) TheRedSea Peter(Acts12:6and7) 12.10(Exodus7to11) Adriatic(Acts27:27–44) 14.Elijah(1Kings19:1–5) Samson(Judges16:1–3) David(1Samuel21:13) Jotham(Judges9:5) Escape ANSWERS TO THE GREAT BIBLE ESCAPES QUIZ (PAGE 24)

16.

Bromley Temple is looking for a community manager to be responsible for the day-to-day running of a busy and vibrant community programme. This will include creating a warm welcoming place, working with corps activities, employees, volunteers and outside agencies to ensure a safe and healthy Asenvironment.thesuccessful candidate you will be highly motivated with excellent administrative, communication and organisational skills as well as being able to develop appropriate community work and line manage staff members and volunteers as necessary. To be successful in the role you will be able to demonstrate: Experience of developing effective community projects for a diverse range of participants The ability to prioritise, organise and manage a busy workload to meet objectives Experience of managing the physical infrastructure of buildings that are accessible to the public Experience of working with volunteers

9.

18.

1.

5.

MARGARETCOMMISSIONERHANNEVIK

15.

3.

13.

4.

minimum CONTRACT Permanent DETAILS 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part-time); a contributory pension scheme; an employee assistance programme CLOSING DATE 2 September INTERVIEW DATE 12 September As a disability confident scheme employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.

7.

2.

10.

17.

8.

For further details and to apply please visit: salvationarmy.org.uk/jobs Appointment subject to satisfactory references, proof of right to work in the UK, and an enhanced DBS disclosure. CVs will not be accepted. Promoting equality in the workplace.

GREAT BIBLE ESCAPES

12 How many plagues were sent upon Egypt?

18 David met the Philistines in 1 Samuel 23:28 (English Standard Version) at a place called ‘the rock of _______’?

13 Name the sea upon which sailors (and Paul) tried to escape from their apparently doomed ship. (Anagram: Acid Rita)

16 Which future king of Israel escaped an evil monarch by pretending he was crazy?

6 Which ‘J’ warned which ‘D’ to escape from his father?

15 Which long-haired ‘S’ escaped from a locked city by ripping the gates from their hinges and carrying them almost 40 miles?

Quiz…

7 In Joshua 2 which ‘R’ lied in defence of Israelite spies and lowered them down a wall on a rope to escape? 8 Paul and Silas were led out of jail by a jailor during which geological event? 9 Who escaped unharmed from a feline lair? 10 After 430 years, mostly in slavery, which body of colourful water did the Israelites cross, possibly giving a wave to their pursuers? 11 In Acts 12, who was helped to escape from prison by an angel?

5 Which baby escaped by going on a very short boat trip down the world’s longest river?

17 He escaped death by hiding while 70 of his brothers died. His name means ‘perfection of Jehovah’. Who is he?

BY GARRY D REED

14 Which ‘E’ fled into the desert to escape Queen Jezebel?

3 To which country did Mary, Joseph and Jesus escape from the wrath of King Herod? 4 Who escaped a flood by building the ultimate life raft?

1 Who was forced to flee from Damascus in a laundry basket? 2 Who was well pleased to escape a deep, dark hole in the ground?