SALVATIONIST THE LIGHT HAS COME
Pay it forward
PAYING it forward – showing kindness to others without thought of repayment – is a popular concept, but not a new one. Indeed, for centuries people have responded to acts of kindness shown to them by showing acts of kindness to others.
Christmas is a time of giving. The Christmas story is an opportunity to reflect on the ultimate gift, given freely in love. Such love is impossible to pay back. However, it is possible to pay it forward, at least in part.
Matthew 5:15 and 16 remind us that the love that is ours through Christ is a light that we should show to others that they too may come to experience it for themselves.
In this final issue of Salvationist for 2024, we complete our focus on Everlasting Light by reflecting on how we carry the light of Christ within us in our present and into our future. Although this past year has contained much that could be seen as darkness, we find hope in the Christmas story that the Light has come – and that the Light will come again. It is for us to shine that light into every dark corner, so that others may share in the love it represents.
May God bless and use you this Christmas.
MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN
Editor
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Issue No 1992 @SalvationistUKI
SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS
From the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated
INTERNATIONAL LEADERS
General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham
TERRITORIAL LEADERS
Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Julian Watchorn
TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS
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© The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory. ISSN 2516-5909.
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FOUNDERS William and Catherine Booth
‘Good news that will cause great joy…’
IHAD the privilege earlier this year of attending the Testify Congress in The Salvation Army’s USA Western Territory. There were many highlights that weekend, but what stood out for me were the amazing stories of transformation. Men and women whose lives had been radically transformed when they encountered God’s love for them in the person of Jesus Christ. ‘For God so loves the world…’ – yes, I changed the tense. The verse actually reads, ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son’ (John 3:16). Yet God’s love is as real, true and deep today as it was on that first Christmas Day. This remains the greatest evidence of God’s love and his plan for all people – the gift of his Son, the gift of our salvation – not just in the past, but for the present as well. This is the good news we celebrate at Christmas.
That news was first declared by the prophet Isaiah long ago: ‘For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end’ (Isaiah 9:6 and 7 King James Version).
It was declared again by the angels at the birth of Jesus: ‘And there were shepherds living out in the fields near by, keeping watch over their flocks at night.
An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests”’ (Luke 2:8–14).
The Bible tells us the shepherds immediately went to where Jesus was, and having seen him they right away began to spread the word. I love that! They immediately began to share their experience. The shepherds recognised Jesus for who he was – their Saviour – and they lost no time in going out and sharing the good news. What a testimony!
Believers ever since have carried on the mission of spreading the word of God’s saving, forgiving, redeeming work through his Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ. I saw and heard evidence of this at Testify –people sharing the good news of God’s transformative power in and through their lives, just as the shepherds did on that night so long ago.
In his book, Sacred Risk, General Shaw Clifton writes: ‘Christmas is summed up
in Jesus. The very name of Jesus serves through all history to declare that there is a Saviour. It follows logically therefore that if there is a Saviour it is because we need to be saved. However, even before we realise our need the Saviour is there. It is he who reveals to us our deepest needs, gently urging us by his Holy Spirit to make a response to his offer of salvation. Christmas is therefore discovering or rediscovering or reaffirming Jesus as Saviour, and in discovering him we discover ourselves and our true condition.’ God can still change the hearts of men and women and make them live again. And like the shepherds, we can testify of that good news with those around us.
This Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of the Saviour, let’s ask God to empower us with Holy Spirit zeal to spread the word concerning Jesus, that still more might come to experience the love of God as revealed in the gift of his precious Son and our Saviour, Jesus, the Son of God.
Commissioner Bronwyn joins me in praying God’s blessings for you this Christmas season.
LYNDON BUCKINGHAM General
Settle in for a
by Garry D Reed
1 The shepherds appear in the Nativity narrative of which Gospel?
2 How many magi visited Jesus in Matthew’s Nativity narrative?
3 Which two Gospels describe Jesus as being born in Bethlehem?
As Consett Band celebrates its 145th anniversary, Bandswoman Rebecca Waters shares how the love of the church family brought her closer to God
4 Which Eric Ball composition incorporates ‘The Blast of the Trumpet’, ‘O Come, Immanuel’ and ‘Lo! He Comes with Clouds’?
5 Major Joy Webb wrote which popular primary school Christmas song?
6 Which Salvation Army General wrote ‘The Stable Door’?
7 ‘Joy to the World!’ is based on which psalm?
8 Name the famous Methodist leader who wrote ‘Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus’.
9 Which Christmas song was the first song ever broadcast on radio?
10 Confectioner Tom Smith is traditionally described as the inventor of which Christmas dinner item?
11 On which day in AD 800 did Pope Leo III crown Charlemagne the first emperor of the Holy Roman Empire?
12 On Christmas Day 1066, who was crowned king in Westminster Abbey?
HREE years ago, a friend invited me to the Sunday service at Consett Salvation Army. I was finding life tough at the time after losing a really close friend, mentor and colleague, so I thought the invitation was kind and went along.
Trying to hide at the back of the hall, I remember feeling real comfort and a sense of calm throughout the service – something I hadn’t felt in a long time. remember watching how loving people were to one another and, when we stood up to sing and everyone clapped as the band played, I was overwhelmed with emotion. I started to attend the service every week and was invited to play in the band.
From a young age, I’ve felt God’s presence in my life. I prayed each night but had never attended church. As soon as I started going to the Army, I knew it was right. I felt like I’d finally found what had been missing from my life and I was excited for my relationship with God to strengthen.
I enjoyed attending adherent and soldier classes, where I learnt more about the Christian faith and the Army’s 11 doctrines. I wanted to offer everything I do completely to God, so making my commitment to him and becoming an adherent was the next important step. I know that he has given me strength to become all he created me to be and, even though I am a work in progress, I trust in God and the path he set out for me.
People queried why I’d started attending church, and I still get lots of questions at work and from family and friends about what happens at The Salvation Army. I openly talk about my faith and how much the Army
means to me, and I hope this gives them a better understanding. I now lead the ladies fellowship group, and I talk about what we’re doing in each session with friends. We have interesting conversations about things we would never have discussed previously, and they’re all supportive.
I am thankful to God every day for all he does for us. I thank him particularly for the reassurance that I’m in the right place doing exactly what I should be. I thank him for my church family and for the love and support they give me – and one another – so freely. I’m so grateful to the people at Consett Corps for sharing their faith, supporting my faith and welcoming me into their church family.
God’s love is a gift, and my life has certainly changed because I’ve chosen to accept it.
salvationarmy.org.uk
Christmas greetings from retired officers
To all our friends, may the loving presence of our Saviour bless you this Christmas and always.
Major Ann Andrews and Major Rita Andrews
Best wishes for Christmas and the coming year. ‘Come and behold him, born the King of angels! Christ the Lord.’
Majors Christine and James Cunningham
Listening in the dull ordinariness of December we hear whispers of heartwarming reassurance in Christ. Blessings!
Lieut-Colonel Anwyn Mingay
Major Pamela Saunders sends Christmas greetings to her friends for Christmas and God’s blessing for the new year.
Major Noel Baker sends Christmas greetings to all those who remember him. May the Lord be with you in 2025.
Majors Ralph and Wendy Chambers wish their friends and colleagues a blessed Christmas and a new year filled with peace and joy and love for each other.
No need to journey or follow a star. Jesus is with us, just where we are.
Greetings from Majors Dave and Lyn Groves
To all officers everywhere, I wish you a happy Christmas and a good new year. Best wishes.
Major Jean Moore
May the love, joy and peace born at Christmas be yours now and throughout the new year. God bless you.
Major Olive Stevens
Major Nanella Weir wishes everyone a happy Christmas.
May you know the joy that only Christ can bring.
Wishing all my friends and colleagues a happy Christmas and a blessed and peaceful new year.
Major Pat Charlesworth
To all whose love and friendship we have shared, we wish you repeated joy and peace.
Colonels Anne and Graeme Harding May blessings shine upon you this Christmas and throughout 2025.
Majors Derek and Susan Jones
May peace and joy be yours this Christmas and in the coming year.
Major William Myers
Commissioner Margaret Sutherland sends Christmas greetings to all friends and colleagues. God bless you now and in coming days.
We pray that all our friends will have a good Christmas and a happy new year. LieutColonels Mike and Ruth Williams
Every blessing for Christmas and the new year. God bless you.
Major Kath Pyman
Remembering friends at home and overseas. Have a blessed Christmas and a happy new year.
Majors Derek and Helen Tyrrell
Lieut-Colonels
Joyce and Mervyn Woodman send greetings to all our friends and colleagues. Wishing you peace and joy.
Children of light
Captain Alice Nunn encourages us to shine as we follow in Christ’s steps
EPHESIANS 5:8–20
EVERY Advent, I am in awe of the way Jesus was sent into the world.
‘Light of the world,/ You stepped down into darkness’, as the Tim Hughes song (SASB 114) reminds us. I am in awe that the God of creation chose to reveal himself in the hope that his creation would see and believe that their Creator wanted to have relationship with them – that creation would no longer walk in darkness but live in the light of God. As we, God’s people, seek to know our Creator and to make him known, we are called to a way of life that brings wholeness.
Our study passage brings a calling to each one of us to ‘live as children of light’ (v8). It is a beautiful reminder of our identity as children of God and our responsibility to bring light to our darkened world.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
In the busyness of Advent, take a minute to pause and remember that you are a child of God. Remember that your Creator loves you and invites you to spend time with him.
In verse 8, Paul reminds readers of their past – ‘for you were once darkness’ – and of what they have become, ‘now you are light in the Lord’. In verse 14, we see another contrast – death and life – with the dramatic call: ‘Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.’
Each of us will have our own journey
of faith. Some experience life-changing darkness-to-light moments. For others, it is more of a growing awareness of Jesus. You might, like me, sometimes be a bit of a muddled mess who Jesus has not given up on. Whatever your story or circumstance, the light of Jesus is always present. Our awareness of him, however, can be the thing that wavers, especially when we are feeling surrounded by darkness.
God can teach us through nature. Jesus told his disciples to ‘consider the lilies of the field’ (Matthew 6:28 English Standard Version). I am reminded that certain types of flowers turn towards the sun and even close at night when the sun has gone. Just as flowers need the sunlight for growth, we need the light of Jesus if we are to grow to be like him. In whatever darkness we are from – or surrounded by – Jesus invites us to turn towards him. This is where we find our wholeness, peace and growth.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Are there any parts of your life that you are trying to hide in the shade?
Where do you need the light of Jesus to shine?
As Jesus stepped into the world to be light, we are called to continue his mission. As I write this, our corps community café is open with a wonderful team of staff and volunteers who love people. They listen, care and help where they can. They see the reality of the darkness in our world.
That could be a mother attempting to rebuild her life after years of abuse and doing her best to raise her children, protecting them from her experience as a child, hoping they will never know her pain. Or a retired gentleman who has lost his wife of many years, facing loneliness but also at imminent risk of homelessness, trying to keep the twinkle in his eye while attempting to live on a pension. Or a daughter desperately seeking to love and care for her mum but struggling to continue due to the mental, emotional and financial burden, trying to be brave and feeling guilty as she comes to terms with needing to accept the help of social care.
This darkness can feel overwhelming at times, but what always hits me is the honour to see, sit alongside and listen to people who have also been created in God’s image. In these moments I get to see Jesus’ light shine. The way people keep going when everything seems against them, the moments when someone is honest and they are accepted, listened to and fully seen. These are the beautiful moments of light that remind me Jesus is very much alive in our world.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Do you know, serve and love someone who is finding life really difficult?
Who might need to experience the light of Jesus at this time?
As The Salvation Army, we are called to be like Jesus and live out our calling, whatever title or clothing we have. That’s true not only here in Jersey: across the world, there are similar stories of people who are part of the Salvation Army family stepping into darkness and being the light in the world.
A huge thing that I have learnt is that the light isn’t me – it’s Jesus. It is Jesus shining in, through and around us, as we share these precious moments of light.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Read verses 15 to 20 of our study passage. How can you live out being one of the ‘children of light’?
I cannot help but come back to love. When we love God and accept that we are beloved children of God, we are filled with the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit of God who enables us to follow our calling. The Message paraphrases Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:14 so beautifully: ‘You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colours in the world.’
What an amazing calling for a muddled mess like me!
A shortened version of Prayer Matters will continue to be published weekly in Salvationist in 2025. To read the full, unedited booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship
SATURDAY 21 DECEMBER: CARE FOR CREATION – REJOICING IN THE RAIN Next time it rains, go outside and stand or walk in it, letting it remind you of the relentless love of God (see Hosea 6:3). by Captain Vanessa Coleman (Woking)
SUNDAY 22 DECEMBER: SABBATH PRAYER – RADIATE THE LIGHT A thought to reflect on: to dwell in God’s presence is the secret to radiating his light. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
MONDAY 23 DECEMBER: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – THE JOY OF THE SHEPHERDS Jesus, help us to treasure the joy of your coming, and let it shape our interactions with those around us. Give us an irresistible joy in bringing the good news to all we meet. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
TUESDAY 24 DECEMBER: SERVING AND CARING – THE COMPASSION OF MARY Jesus, whose mother sang a revolution song, stir in us a longing for social transformation, and a resistance to pride and complacency, that we might work and fight for a world where the hungry are fed and the poor are lifted up. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
WEDNESDAY 25 DECEMBER: GROWING IN FAITH – THE DEVOTION OF JOSEPH Jesus, whose earthly father allowed his life to be turned inside out and upside down to welcome you, give us devoted hearts, welcoming you afresh. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
THURSDAY 26 DECEMBER: INTERNATIONAL ARMY – ITALY AND GREECE TERRITORY We give thanks for opportunities to share the gospel over the Christmas season in Italy, on to the Orthodox celebration on 6 January. We ask God’s blessing on the territorial leadership team. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
FRIDAY 27 DECEMBER: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – SUPPORTED HOUSING Father, bless those experiencing homelessness and living in our supported housing. We pray people will find resilience to rebuild self-esteem. by Mitch Menagh (Assistant Secretary for Mission, THQ)
SATURDAY 28 DECEMBER: CARE FOR CREATION – TAKING A DIP
Research tells us that being in cold water for a short time can be great for mental health. In what ways is God reminding you to be fully alive, overwhelming you with his presence?
by Captain Vanessa Coleman (Woking)
SUNDAY 29 DECEMBER: SABBATH PRAYER – GRATITUDE
Heavenly Father, in the stillness after Christmas, thank you for all the blessings this season has brought. by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts (Secretary for Spiritual Life Development)
MONDAY 30 DECEMBER: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – REFLECTION AND RENEWAL Dear God, help me carry the peace of this season into each day. by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts (Secretary for Spiritual Life Development)
TUESDAY 31 DECEMBER: SERVING AND CARING – PEACE IN THE NEW YEAR
Lord, as I prepare to return to daily life and new challenges, guide me into the new year with love and gratitude.
by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts (Secretary for Spiritual Life Development)
CAPTAIN ALICE NUNN Corps Officer Jersey
PRAYER REQUESTS
Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for? Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line.
The Light has come
Recruiting Sergeant Brian Colley reflects on ‘Wonderful Counsellor’ and celebrates the promise that the Light will come
TEENAGE members of a church wanted to produce a Nativity play all by themselves with no help from the senior members. They did everything, including the stage lighting and effects, which included a large light bulb placed in a cradle to represent baby Jesus. It was to be lit to shine brightly in the darkness, the only light in the building to be left on.
All went well – until suddenly that illumination went out, plunging the whole place into darkness. There was deadly silence, until an anguished voice was heard to loudly exclaim: ‘You’ve switched Jesus off!’
Of course, in reality the Light of the world cannot be put out. It can be shut out, and is by many, but Jesus is an everlasting light.
In the beginning, God said ‘let there be light’ (Genesis 1:3) and the world has been lit up – externally and spiritually – ever since. His light came to this Earth physically when his son was born. Isaiah said: ‘The sun will no more be your light by day, nor will the brightness of the moon shine on you, for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory’ (Isaiah 60:19). Everlasting, because ‘I the Lord do not change’ (Malachi 3:6). In his commentary on John 8, Matthew Henry wrote: ‘Christ is the light of the world... God is light, and Christ is the image of the invisible God... One sun enlightens the whole world; so does one Christ, and there needs no more.’
This everlasting light is evident throughout the Old and New Testaments. Light symbolises good, and darkness evil. Jesus, the King of kings, good, and Satan, the prince of darkness, evil. ‘Whoever follows me,’ Jesus said, ‘will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life’ (John 8:12).
This everlasting light will continue into the future. In Psalm 18:28, David says: ‘You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness
into light.’ This is still the testimony of many today.
Chick Yuill announces the birth of Jesus in this way: ‘Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God among us;/ Everlasting Father, Prince who rules in peace./ To us a child is born, to us a Son is giv’n./ To those who walked in darkness the light has come’ (SASB 133). God has arrived on Earth! His everlasting light will shine all around!
When Jesus was eight days old, he was presented at the Temple in Jerusalem. A man called Simeon, described as being ‘righteous and devout’ (Luke 2:25), had been waiting for this day and was guided there by the Spirit. Immediately on seeing the child, he commented that Jesus was ‘a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel’ (Luke 2:32). He recognised the Light had come.
The song’s second verse reminds us: ‘For God so loved the world, he gave his only Son;/ No more we walk in darkness, the light has come.’
Unfortunately, the world today seems to prefer darkness, but verse three reassures us positively: ‘This King will come again, the Father’s only Son;/ No more a world in darkness, the light will come.’ Jesus said he will return, unannounced and unexpected (see Matthew 24:42–44). Billy Graham wrote: ‘For you who believe in Jesus Christ, the future is assured… Keep your eyes on Christ and live each day as if he were coming tomorrow. After all, he might!’
Let each one of us make sure we are prepared, ready to welcome the King of kings and Lord of lords. Good will overcome evil. Love will replace hate. God’s everlasting light will shine out as brightly as it always has.
BRIAN COLLEY Clowne
Let it shine!
Lieutenant Lizzy Kitchenside celebrates that we are invited to bring out the God-colours in the world
LIGHT is essential for almost every aspect of existence. For crops and food to grow. For warmth and energy. However, light does even more than just the essentials: it brings colour and beauty to the world around us. This time of year, we are reminded of this by Christmas lights! They bring life and colour to the cold and dark streets around us.
In Matthew 5:14–16, Jesus explains to his disciples that they are to shine light to the world around them. As his disciples, we are called to do the same!
Although we generally perceive light as white, it actually exists as a full spectrum of colour. I’m no scientist, but I think that this is because the rays have different wavelengths, hence why we have rainbows – or Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon album cover! Colour exists because of light.
The Message paraphrase puts it this way: ‘You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world… I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand – shine!’
Seeing light as a spectrum full of different colours is an encouragement because it means that each of us will shine differently. We don’t all have to look or act exactly the same to share the light of Jesus with the world around us: there is an infinite spectrum of Godcolours to be shared and we are all invited to shine our one-ofa-kind light! The colours of a businessperson will be different to the colours a teacher will share, or a student or a grandparent. Although it might look different, each of us can bring light and colour into our dark world where we are.
Light also exposes darkness. It exposes the bad things, such as corruption and injustice, when people are treated unfairly. Light shows us the difficult things we would often rather leave in the shadows. We are called to shine God’s light into those dark places, to expose the things that are wrong so that they can be put right, so that light and colour can bring life and healing.
Now this might sound like quite a task and responsibility. How are we meant to do all that? But the great thing is that we don’t do any of this in our own strength. The song ‘Shine, Jesus, Shine’ contains the words: ‘Ever changing from glory to glory,/ Mirrored here may our lives tell your story./ Shine on me.’ This song reminds us that it is God’s glory that we are shining, not our own.
Did you know that the moon doesn’t produce its own light? It simply reflects the light of the sun. As disciples, we are called to do the same: to act like a mirror, reflecting the beautiful and colourful rays of God’s light. I like to imagine the Church as a giant disco ball, each person a mirror bouncing a unique, colourful and beautiful beam of God’s glory into a different corner of the world.
This Christmas, what will God’s light look like as you reflect him? Where will God’s light shine through you? As you see the twinkling lights in the dark streets, remember that there is a God-colour that is uniquely yours, and that you are called to reflect God’s glory where you are placed.
LIEUTENANT
LIZZY KITCHENSIDE Corps Officer Harold Hill
Chatting Christ mas
Salvationist and Kids Alive! teamed up to ask children from across the territory to chat about Christmas with Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main
Do you prefer giving presents or receiving presents?
Daisy Giving presents.
Micah Giving presents.
Nicole Receiving presents.
Theo Receiving presents.
Jenine Giving presents. Be honest, Paul...
Paul Receiving presents! And giving them as well.
What's your favourite Christmas carol?
Micah Mine is ‘O Christmas Tree’.
Jenine ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’ is mine. I like it because it says ‘the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight’, which means that Jesus is the answer to all our hopes and all the fears that we have. He meets those needs, those hopes, and takes away the fears.
Paul ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’, particularly the last verse. It says: ‘What can I give him, poor as I am? If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb. If I were a wise man, I would do my part. What can I give him? Give my heart.’ And I think that just sums it all up. Jesus came to love us, to save us, and our response is to give our lives to him. I love it!
Do you have a family Christmas tradition?
Jenine One tradition is opening all the presents after lunch. Do you wait till after lunch for all your presents?
Micah No, I do it before breakfast!
Paul Because we live in London, we do a lights tour: we walk all the Christmas lights in the city of London. That’s a nice tradition that we’ve started.
Jenine I also like listening to carols on Christmas Eve on the television. Or if I can, I like to go to a Christmas Eve service in a church or in the Army wherever I’m near.
Who is your favourite in the Nativity story?
Daisy I like Mary and Joseph, a newborn baby who was Jenine The shepherds are people in the story because ordinary people and God chose and see Jesus first.
Paul The innkeeper. There the inn, but he made room
Do you have any plans for Christmas?
Jenine We’ve got a lot of carol services that we’re going to, and a few Christmas dinners before Christmas Day. Then on Christmas Eve, we’re going to drive to our daughter’s house. We’ve got four grandchildren and we’re all going to be together! We’re really looking forward to that.
If you were a character Nativity, who would
Paul I would be an angel or man, because of the presents or an angel because I like singing angels in the sky proclaiming been a brilliant sound. I’d like
Jenine A shepherd because to go and see Jesus and tell But it would be very cold out and I don’t like being cold!
If you could only keep about Christmas Day, that be?
Paul Being with family. Jenine Being with our family. Harris Family.
Hannah Sharing Christmas with all my family.
favourite person story?
Joseph, because they had King of the world. some of my favourite because they were just chose them to go wasn’t any room in room in the stable.
Sprouts or no sprouts?
Nicole No!
Theo No.
Paul I love sprouts!
Jenine I like sprouts too!
Do you like sprouts?
Harris No.
Paul I also like turnips.
Hannah They are enemies.
What's
the best Christmas present you ever received?
Daisy I really like Squishmallows, which I got for Christmas last year. I got a few books as well.
Harris A Lego set.
Hannah I like playing the guitar and the other year my guitar case broke and for Christmas I got a brilliant padded one and it was brilliant.
Jenine I enjoy playing musical instruments.
One Christmas I got a wooden treble recorder.
On another Christmas, I got a guitar. So both of those would be my favourite presents!
Paul Mine was a chopper bike. It was really cool when I got that. When I was older, probably the best present was being with family.
Which is better, Christmas or Easter?
Daisy Christmas.
Theo Christmas, because you get presents.
Micah Easter, because of the chocolate!
Nicole Christmas, because that’s when Jesus was born and there’s lots of Christmas cards.
Participants
Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main Territorial Leaders
character in the would you be? a wise man. A wise presents they bring to Jesus, singing and I think the proclaiming Jesus must have like to join that chorus! because they were chosen tell everybody else. out on the hillside
Jenine Christmas, because without Christmas we wouldn’t have Easter. I also like all the lights and everything that go with Christmas. It’s beautiful.
Paul Both. Because of the chocolate! But also because Jesus died for us and that was important, so that we could know God. keep one thing Day, what would
What do you think God wants to say to the world this Christmas?
Nicole Keep your Christmas spirit alive.
Theo Never give up.
Jenine Peace to the world.
Paul There’s hope in the darkness. And there’s lots of darkness at the moment, with the stuff that’s going on in the world. There’s always hope, and thankfully, we know that hope is found in Jesus.
Harris
Daisy
Micah
Jacob Adams Kids Alive!
Theo
Nicole
Hannah
Poetry corner
It Was Cold That Night
It was cold that night; Cold enough to be grateful for a warm cloak. Not ice and snow, You only get that in the mountains to the north, Not on the hills where we watched.
It was cold away from the fire where the others sat or slept. When it was your turn you couldn’t sit by the fire.
The brightness of the flame meant you couldn’t see. The crackling of the wood meant you couldn’t hear. And trust me you had to see and hear When you watched.
There were wolves, and bears, and, worst of all, Mountain lions driven down to the folds, hunting food.
It was my watch that night. I was the first to see. I was the first to hear.
And every year since, Every anniversary of that night, Though my eyesight’s not so good… I’m watching. Though my hearing’s not what it was… I’m listening.
Though year upon year has passed… I’m hoping, Hoping, Hoping, He will come again.
MAJOR GARETH HEWARD
So Far and Yet So Near
So far from the clash of a military triumph, So far from ambition, hypocrisy, greed; So near to the home of some ostracised herdsmen, So near to the trough where the animals feed.
So far from the sanitised hotel and palace, So far from the luxury gifts in the night; So near to the grimness of fearful subsistence, So near to the starkness of refugee flight.
So far from the chaos of cruel oppression, So far from the noise where no angels are heard;
So near to the touch of a Saviour incarnate, So near to the whispering voice of the Word Who heals our divisions and joins our extremes,
And with gentle compassion restores and redeems.
STYLES SHERINGHAM
Epiphany Gifts
Christmas is here, to Beth’lem we’ll go
To give to the Christ-child the homage we owe. Like magi ancient we’ll come and bring Gifts that will honour the Lord Saviour King. Some gold I’ll give, though my wealth is small, It’s not very much, yet I offer it all.
I’ll try not to hold e’en one penny back –And trust in God to make up what I lack.
And frankincense too, that perfume most fine, I’ll pour out before him in worship divine. This offering is my thanksgiving praise, So with others a loud anthem I’ll raise!
But the third gift, I fear, is suffering, Myrrh is its name! Should this offering I bring? Should I give him my sorrow and loss?
Hasn’t he enough pain to take to the cross?
I’ll willingly offer my worship and gold, These gifts are OK – but suffering is cold. Will the Christ-child cry, as on my knee Come with my myrrh, the sadness in me?
Christmas is here, to Bethlehem we’ll go To give to the Christ-child the homage we owe.
With the magi ancient we’ll come and bring Ourselves, complete, to the Lord Saviour King.
DAVID
RADFORD BOSTON
Into the Stable
God chose a simple couple
To bear and raise his Son, He led them to a stable Where the will of God was done.
Lowly, working shepherds
And kings of wealth and power, All redefined as equals In the stable hour.
A place devoid of comfort, Filled with cold and straw, Is where Jesus’ life on Earth began Though he was worth much more.
We are all invited To this special place, To give up all we think we are And become much more through grace.
LEMOYNE BOWYER MIDDLESBROUGH
Love’s Embrace
Sleep little child sleep
Rest in your mother’s arms, Deity held in love’s embrace In strips of cloth a gift of grace, Radiant light from Heaven above Essence of love.
Sleep little child sleep
Rest on your manger bed, Hear celestial voices sing Shepherds greet their new-born King, And wise men travel from afar Following a star.
Sleep little child sleep
Rest below the starlit sky, Creation bows in adoration Born on Earth for our salvation, Sleep sweetly while you can O Saviour of Man.
MAJOR PHILIP NIELD
PHYL
God Crept in on Tiptoe
God crept into this sleeping world on tiptoe, So silently that no one would have known, Had it not been for the angels’ great announcement, And the star that led men to his humble home.
Few realised that God was now among them, That he had come to share their earthly strife, That he’d show the world the depth of his devotion
With a life brim-full of love and sacrifice.
Though you may feel that God is nowhere near you,
If he exists he’s somewhere far away, We are told that we will find him if we seek him, Like the shepherds and the wise men in their day.
So while we search for gifts to give our loved ones, In crowded shops or countless hours online, May we also seek and find the gift that God gave, When he crept into our world at Christmastime.
MAJOR HOWARD WEBBER
Cat in the Manger
The animals are quiet tonight A stillness falls over the town Beneath a host of stars
No one is about tonight In the dark silent streets
Then
A cry rings out –
A new birth, here in our stable Part of my patch, that I patrol
The smell of milk from a mother’s breast
First food for a new life
I am drawn to the warmth of love
To curl up contentedly and share
This moment, this eternity.
Ring the Bells
To the tune of ‘Jingle Bells’
Walking to the Church, on a frosty/sunny Christmas Day, Down the lane we go, singing all the way.
Hear the church bells ring, bringing joy and cheer. We love to hear the bells ring out, at this time of year.
Ring the bells, ring the bells, Christ was born today, The bells ring out their Christmas cheer and speed us on our way.
Happy bells, joyful bells, ring them all the way, Jesus came down to the Earth, invite him here to stay.
WESLEY PAXTON LOCKERBIE
Everlasting Light
God is an everlasting light, A beacon in the darkest night. In Jesus Christ he came to Earth, That’s why we celebrate his birth.
Remembering when God’s Son was born, It is indeed a happy morn. To worship him some don’t delay, For them this is a special day.
To others it’s a holiday, A time to party, get away, No thought of Jesus will they give Who came to Earth so they can live.
Today it’s called the Holy Land That special place where God had planned In Bethlehem, now below ground Is where it’s thought that place was found.
Down steps all tourists go to search, The stable underneath a church. But they will only stand and stare, When they should kneel in reverent prayer.
Now there’s a war that does not cease, Yet Jesus told them ‘live in peace’. He came to show us all the way, His light still shines as bright today.
BRIAN
COLLEY CLOWNE
Carolling
They stamp their feet to keep them warm, The bandsmen in the busy high street. Scarves pulled up against the cold wind, Breath coming in icy clouds.
Instruments are raised to their lips once more, Familiar melodies float on the air.
Shoppers, caught up in the Christmas bustle, Catch the tune and, smiling, hum along.
Christmas lights twinkle, the band plays on, Painting images of stable, star and kings. The collecting boxes grow heavy With the generous flow of seasonal goodwill.
Then dusk falls and the bandsmen think of home.
Euphoniums and cornets are packed away. Their task is done, the message spread, Christmas has now begun!
SUSAN WILLARD SOUTHAMPTON SHOLING
CHRISTMAS
ANNIVERSARY
ANNIVERSARY
THE winner of this year’s Kids Alive! Christmas Card Competition has been unveiled.
The contest, now in its fourth year, asked readers to design a card to use on the e-card platform Don’t Send Me a Card, an environmentally friendly way to send seasonal greetings while supporting the Army’s work.
The overall winner was Natalie, 12, whose picture of a snow-filled town square invited everyone to have a cosy Christmas, as we show kindness and warmth to others. The runners-up were Rabeea, 15, and Sophie, 9. Other winners included Otto, 5, Vasile, 7, Martha, 11, and Adam, 13.
They all received vouchers for The Entertainer and Natalie’s card was the front cover of the Kids Alive! 7 December issue. – AR
• To send an e-card, visit dontsendmeacard.com/ecards/ charities/the-salvation-army
CHILDREN AND YOUTH
LEIGH-ON-SEA Local author Jester Arrow visited the corps preschool and toddler group to read his book, Perky the Pigeon, which teaches children to follow their dreams and never give up. Jester donated a copy of the book to the preschool. On Sunday, Siobhan Fraser led the young people’s annual. The singing company and members of the YP band learners group took part, and commissions to the groups were presented. The youngsters then received prizes. – PJ
PENARTH Captains David and Eveline Haines (Connah’s Quay) led the 142nd corps anniversary meeting. The congregation were challenged to be like Jesus and the meeting concluded on a lively note with ‘I’ll Go in the Strength of the Lord’ (SASB 959). Captains David and Eveline are pictured with corps officer Major Jo Walters. – CP
ANNIVERSARY
CONSETT The band – which played its first concert on Christmas Day 1879 – celebrated its 145th birthday. As the first ever Salvation Army band, the now 30-strong group recognised this landmark with an exhibition and evening concert. Corps officer Lieutenant Wendy Verheij said: ‘Music is a huge part of the church and our mission, using brass to inspire and uplift.’ Marc Jackson, Community Mission Facilitator, whose father was a bandmaster in the 1970s, added: ‘Thank you to all of those who have helped make Consett Band what it is today.’ – AR
MUSIC
BUCKHAVEN The corps has formed a new worship band, with Pat Kidd on guitar and Margaret Laing as singer. Soon after starting it a new family from Eswatini joined the corps. They and another young girl have joined what is now an all-age, multicultural group. – AK
BELLSHILL Territorial Leaders
Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main led the 129th corps anniversary weekend. It commenced with An Evening at the Musicals. Soloist Jack Howells-Davis sang ‘Pure Imagination’, before joining the band to sing ‘Love Changes Everything’. Items from the band and songsters included ‘Faithful in Every Way’ and ‘God of our Praise’. Commissioner Jenine spoke from Joshua, and invited the corps to symbolically build an altar as a sign to the next generation of God’s provision and guiding hand. On Sunday morning, Bandsman Billy Scott and Songster Miriam Mathie testified. Commissioner Paul encouraged the corps to build on yesterday, live for today, and trust God for tomorrow. Following worship was a march of witness. The weekend concluded with fellowship, during which the territorial leaders cut an anniversary cake. – MS
BRISTOL EASTON A superbly sparkly display of Christmas jumpers marked the annual toy service! Corps members collected donations for the Be a Star! toy appeal and were delighted by the public’s response. Bristol City FC also backed the campaign by encouraging supporters to contribute gifts. – LS
CHRISTMAS
CHRISTMAS
WOODHOUSE The corps and community came together for the annual toy service. Donations were passed to the council’s Family Intervention Service. – VB
CHRISTMAS
MERTHYR TYDFIL Majors Kim and Steve Wilson (Wales DHQ) led a toy appeal service, which was well supported by the corps and the community. The toys and gifts will be donated to social services and Employment Plus. – LB
CHRISTMAS
HULL ICEHOUSE The corps held a toy service to provide gifts for families who are struggling and help them have a Christmas they deserve. – SP
CHRISTMAS
BRIDGWATER The corps held its annual community carol service where the congregation were invited to share in the Music Man Project song ‘It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas’, playing along with tambourines, wooden blocks, triangles and bells. Members of the corps and community came together dressed in costumes and formed a Nativity scene and one family took part with a puppet performance called Bethlehemian Rhapsody! – HC
MUSIC
STAPLEFORD An autumn concert featured Bandmaster Darren Willis (Derby Central) on euphonium and The Village Singers, supported by the band and songsters. It was a capacity congregation and a freewill offering raised £340 for The Brain Tumour Charity. – FT
CHRISTMAS
CLOWNE In conjunction with Clowne Infant and Nursery School, the corps hosted a toy Advent service. The congregation donated gifts for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The sight of small children handing toys in was very moving. – GH
PAIGNTON The toy service was an amazing occasion with a packed hall. After receiving a warm welcome from corps officer Major Matt Elsey, Preston Primary School choir sang a medley of upbeat songs at the toy service, including ‘Sparkle and Shine’ from the film Nativity!. During the congregational carol ‘Away in a Manger’, corps members placed donated gifts under the Christmas tree, ready to be wrapped and distributed to families in need. Children from the choir and their families also donated toys. As well as festive music from the band and songsters, the congregation took part in a pass-the-parcel interactive prayer time and reflected on the value of God’s gift of Jesus at Christmastime. – CB
CHRISTMAS
CARDIFF CANTON On the first Sunday in Advent, corps members and friends brought toys and games for distributing to families experiencing hardship this Christmas. Other Army centres around the city also contributed towards this. – AW
Carols for hope
WESTMINSTER HALL
TERRITORIAL Leaders
Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main joined MPs, peers, staff members and guests for the 2024 parliamentary carol service.
An ensemble from the International Staff Band presented ‘To Celebrate His Birth’ and ‘A Starry Night’, before Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons Canon Mark Birch welcomed everyone present.
The Speaker of the House of Commons, the Rt Hon Sir Lindsay Hoyle, MP, and the senior deputy speaker, Lord Gardiner of Kimble, read poems. Helen Wood, the speaker’s secretary and chief of staff read from Isaiah 9 and Commissioner Paul read from Luke 2.
The Parliament Choir sang ‘Ding Dong Merrily on High’ and Commissioner Jenine prayed for hope to be kindled in all whose lives remain in shadow and for people to recognise Jesus in one another.
Canon Mark gave a Christmas blessing, before the band concluded the service with ‘Christmas Joy’. – AR
MUSIC
SHEFFIELD CITADEL During a busy November the corps hosted the reunion festival of the divisional youth band, the corps Christmas Fair and visits from Grimethorpe Colliery Band and Black Dyke Band. These events saw hundreds of people entering the building who would not normally attend the corps. The corps prays that the contacts made will help visitors to see the building as an active church where they can worship the Lord. – GE
CHRISTMAS
BRIEF UPDATES
DARLASTON Corps leader
Territorial Envoy Lee Highton-Nicholls and Corps Mission Development Leader Claire Highton-Nicholls led a remembrance service at the cenotaph attended by around 500 people. A composite band of supporters from neighbouring corps assisted with music. – LH-N
EASTBOURNE CITADEL Divisional
Envoy Jim Woodgate and Home League Secretary Marlene Woodgate led a service at Emmanuel Church, which is only a year old. During the service, the choir sang ‘I Dare to Live the Life of Faith’ (SASB 321). – JW
WELLING Santa and some friends led a singalong at the food pantry and lunch club, handing out gifts to everyone present. Santa was arranged via a local home care agency, which is a big supporter of the corps and its work in the community. The corps is delighted that, since its kitchen revamp, it has seen a huge increase in people attending and engaging in the lunch club. – KS
BRIDGWATER The songsters sang at West House Farm for their Open Afternoon and Christmas lights switch-on. People gathered to sing carols and meet the resident sheep, goats and donkeys in a stable adorned with tinsel! Generous donations totalled almost £250. One of the businesses at the farm, the Wagging Tail Salon, raised £117 for the Christmas Appeal. – HC
SHAW Many people from the town enjoyed light lunches in the café and a variety of stalls at the Christmas fair. Stalls included homemade decorations and artwork. – KH
LOUTH Commissioners Anthony and Gillian Cotterill helped mark the end of a year of 10 special events to celebrate 140 years of The Salvation Army in Louth. The year’s events included a mini musical, a visit by a band, a Bible weekend, a barbecue and a number of guest leaders. The commissioners gave a presentation of their life stories on Saturday. On Sunday those gathered were challenged regarding their commitment to the Lord. Sunday roast was then enjoyed by the whole congregation before the final afternoon meeting when those gathered were challenged to move forward. During the course of the weekend the singing group contributed ‘Lord, You Are So Good to Me’ and ‘Promises’. The Band played ‘Temple-Building’. Gill Allen, the most recent newcomer to the corps, gave her testimony. – DG
CHRISTMAS
REGENT HALL The band played at the tree-lighting ceremony in Trafalgar Square. The lord mayor of Westminster, Councillor Robert Rigby, was joined by the mayor of Oslo, Anne Lindboe, the mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, the Norwegian Ambassador to Britain, Tore Hattrem, and the British Ambassador to Norway, Jan Thompson. The Royal Marines Corps of Drums and Norwegian Silver Boys’ Choir also participated in the celebrations. – AR
CHRISTMAS
BECCLES The corps entry at the town’s annual Christmas Tree Festival was themed around the international work of the Army – featuring 50 red shields of the 134 countries the Army works in. Festivalgoers were invited to take away a prayer slip and pray for the Army’s work in the country named on it. – LW
LEIGH-ON-SEA The band and singing company led a carol service for Rochford Hundred Golf Club and St Andrew’s Church. Afterwards, everyone enjoyed coffee and mince pies. – RD/CD
CATERHAM Members and volunteers were out and about at The Westway Centre, the Christmas fair and the Church Walk Shopping Centre fundraising, to help provide Christmas Day meals and gifts for struggling children and families. – AF
CHRISTMAS
CHRISTMAS
BARROW-IN-FURNESS
VIRGINIA, Marjorie and Barry were enrolled as soldiers and Neil, Paul and Lynne were welcomed as adherents by corps officers Captain Sarah and Lieutenant Mat Griffiths. Barry thanked everyone for the support he has received and Virginia thanked God and the corps for their support. She sang ‘You Are Great’ as her testimony. – SG
WINTON
KELVIN Wild was enrolled as a soldier by corps officers Majors Claire and Jamie Hill. Kelvin grew up in the Methodist Church. As a young man he worshipped at the United Reformed Church. Kelvin testified to there never being a time when he was not aware of God’s presence. A few years ago, looking for somewhere to worship, he met Recruiting Sergeant Major John Randle distributing the Army papers and took up John’s invitation to worship. Kelvin spoke of the warm welcome and the friendships he has made and how God has opened doors for him to support the corps. Major John accompanied Kelvin as he prayerfully signed the Soldier’s Covenant at the mercy seat. Malcolm Harrison is holding the flag. – JH
STAINES
BEAUTY Kunene was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer
Major Val Mylechreest. Beauty moved into the area and was looking for a church to attend. At the same time, Salvationist Russell Miller (also pictured) was installing a kitchen in her house. He suggested she come to the corps. Soon after attending, Beauty felt the fellowship’s warmth, wanted to know more about becoming a member and began soldiership classes. – MJ
MARILYN McGregor and Maryann Paterson were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Major Amanda Banner. Marilyn and Maryann shared their testimonies. Marilyn chose ‘I Dare to Live the Life of Faith’ (SASB 321) and Maryann chose ‘I Serve a Risen Saviour’ (SASB 847). Both ladies have been attending the corps for many years and felt the time was right for this next step. Also pictured is Colour Sergeant David Robinson. – AB
HEATHER Richardson was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Conny Vogler. Heather grew up in the Army with officer parents, until she left to go her own way during her teenage years. In the past couple of years, we thank God that Heather has returned to the Army and given her life back to the Lord. She testified that God led her back to him during one of the lowest times in her life. Friends and family gathered to support her. The community choir, timbrel group and open brass band took part in the celebration. Heather now participates in them all. The evening ended with fellowship and refreshments. Also pictured is Corps Sergeant-Major Chris Mortimer. – CM
ONOS Odujebe was enrolled as a soldier by corps officers Captains Caron and Jon Doyle. Onos first walked through the doors on Easter Day and has never looked back! Brought up in The Salvation Army in Nigeria, Onos moved to northeast England to study at the University of Sunderland. After connecting with the corps, she decided to become an adherent and made the corps her spiritual home. Deciding to commit as a soldier, Onos thanked the Lord for keeping her daughters safe during the year she has been studying. She is ‘ecstatic to be joining the Army of Jesus Christ’. Please pray for Onos and her family as she continues her studies and her journey as a Salvationist in this part of his Kingdom. – HS
EAST KILBRIDE
SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD
BURTON-ON-TRENT
ARMY PEOPLE
Local officers appointed
RECRUITING SERGEANT
COMMISSIONER CAROL TELFER, Bellshill
ASSISTANT CORPS SERGEANTMAJOR BILLY SCOTT, Bellshill
ASSISTANT CORPS TREASURER
KIRSTY SCOTT, Bellshill
OVER-60 CLUB SECRETARY
DOROTHY PLANT, Shirebrook
CORPS SERGEANT-MAJOR (MISSION) JOANNA REAVELL, Cardiff Canton
CORPS SERGEANT-MAJOR (WORSHIP) HEATHER DUNCAN, Cardiff Canton
CORPS SERGEANT-MAJOR (PROGRAMME) LYNDON KERVIN, Cardiff Canton
Wedding anniversaries
Golden (50 years)
BANDSMAN DAVID AND DOT FISHER, Stowmarket, on 28 December
LIEUT-COLONELS LYNN AND MICHAEL HIGHTON on 1 January 2025
Dedicated to God
GEORGE MATTHEW TAYLOR and ROSE FLORENCE TAYLOR, children of Luke and Samantha Taylor, at Leigh-on-Sea by Major Robert Davis
ANDREA MUKOKO and CHLOE
MUKOKO, daughters of Mireille Bangu and Andre Mukoko, at Birmingham Citadel by Major Keely Standley
Promoted to Glory
DAPHNE PARKER, Nantymoel
BRAM SKUSE, Felixstowe
ALMA MALLETT, Felixstowe
KEN JACQUES, Gateshead
JOHN MASON, Gateshead
MAURICETTE LEVERIDGE, Tunbridge Wells
MOON GWINELL, Paignton
DEREK GRIFFIN, Paignton
JOAN LAVIOLETTE, Guisborough
Bereaved
ALISON PARKER, Nantymoel, of her mother Daphne Parker
MAJOR ANGELA BAILEY, Addlestone, John Hubbard and Jean of their mother Shirley Hubbard
MAUREEN SKUSE, Felixstowe, of her husband Bram Skuse, Phillip Skuse, Lynn Dyer, Mark Skuse and Trevor Skuse, all Felixstowe, of their father
ENGAGEMENTS
General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries
Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham
Wed 8 Jan – Wed 15 Jan Sri Lanka Territory
Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main
Mon 6 Jan William Booth College (Together in Worship)
Sun 12 Jan William Booth College (Opening Worship, Territorial Appointments Conference)
Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader
Development Colonel Julie Forrest
Sun 12 Jan William Booth College (Opening Worship, Territorial Appointments Conference)
NOTICES
Right Tracks at Christmas
This music resource for children and leaders has two festive tracks: ‘Share a Little Bit (of Love at Christmas)’ and ‘The Greatest Day in History’. Listen at salvationist.org.uk/ resources/right-tracks.
Everlasting Light
Explore this year’s Advent and Christmas theme of Everlasting Light at salvationist.org.uk/christmas
Publications:
Delivery dates over Christmas
There will be no 28 December edition of Salvationist, Kids Alive! or War Cry. Each publication will begin the new year with a 4 January issue, which will begin to be delivered to corps later this month, dependent on weather, location and scheduling. If you have any questions or concerns, please email subscriptions@satcol.org
Kids Alive! and War Cry: Christmas outreach
Have you ordered extra copies of Kids Alive! and War Cry to help you with outreach over the Christmas season? We’d love to hear what you used them for and how they helped! Get in touch at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
SOUNDS
Sunday Worship
Join Salvationists across the territory in worship, with music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. This week’s message is from Captain Julia Mapstone (Dublin South). Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am. Tune in on Christmas Day for more worship, with a message from General Lyndon Buckingham.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: The Podcast
The weekly Advent devotional podcast continues a series of reflections on the words of Christmas carols, inspired by the book of the same name. Episodes are released each Friday. This week, Major Mal Davies (Australia Territory) talks about ‘It Came Upon a Midnight Clear’.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts
Me and My Playlist
This Salvationist Radio show sees a young person linked to The Salvation Army share five tracks they love. In this Christmas special, Thomas Barker (Leeds Central) introduces his playlist.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts
Christmas top 10: Your favourite carols!
Salvationist Radio presents a festive chart show featuring the top 10 carols as voted for by you! The show will be broadcast at 2pm on Sunday 22 December and repeated over the Christmas period – visit salvationist.org.uk/radio for the full schedule.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
SITTINGBOURNE
THE corps Scout group’s float won first prize in the Community Sector in the town parade. The Scout group is one of the only groups in the town to be full with a waiting list. We thank God for all the leaders who support and enrich the lives of Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Explorers, Rainbows, Brownies and Guides. – DJ
GATESHEAD
GUISBOROUGH
SONGSTER Brian Gray was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for services to the Royal Navy Reserves. Brian has volunteered in the Royal Naval Reserves for more than 40 years. The medal recognised his dedication and service. – AH
CORPS officer Major Antony Mugford presented Fergus Osborne and his son, William, with certificates of appreciation for their commitment to the Royal British Legion as standard bearers and to the annual corps Festival of Remembrance. Fergus has carried the standard in Guisborough for 30 years and William has supported The Salvation Army for a number of years. – FM
LINDA Simpson, a national table tennis champion and valued volunteer, was named a local hero at the Your Harrogate Local Hero awards for her sporting achievements. She first offered to help the corps with the Christmas Present Appeal a couple of years ago. Since then, she has been a regular volunteer at the Tuesday morning drop-in and will again help with this year’s Christmas Present Appeal. – AR
BANDMASTER Adrian Browning and International Staff Bandmaster Stephen Cobb presented Bandsman Don Gregory with a certificate acknowledging his retirement after 70 years’ service. The ISB visited as part of the corps band weekend and as part of the Wales 150 celebrations. Also pictured is Don’s brother, John. – JB
BIRMINGHAM
EMPLOYMENT Development Coordinator Susan Park was named Employability Practitioner Learner of the Year at the Institute for Employability Professionals awards. Regional Manager Peter Maybury said: ‘This award is recognition of the work that Sue does to support the local communities in Sunderland, South Shields and Newcastle. It is also a measure of how well Employment Plus is respected and valued within the employability industry.’ Susan is pictured receiving her award from Scott Parkin. – AR
RISCA
RIPON
