Salvationist 21 January 2023

Bind us together

DID you know that someone this week is praying for you - for us as a church? The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity runs from 18 to 25 January. It’s when Christians pray for each other, for greater unity. It’s organised by Churches Together in Britain and Ireland and we speak to its general secretary about the week, which is themed around racial inclusion and justice.

What does a united Army look like? Lieutenant Nazia Yousaf considers the mix of flavours needed to create an inclusive, diverse body of Christ that, combined, reflects God’s image.

What is Christian unity in practice? Newcastle City Temple corps officer Major Liz Hancock shares some lessons learnt from sharing a building with Brunswick Methodist Church.

What does it have to do with us as Salvationists? Major Nick Coke reflects on the Army’s mission for justice in this world and how reconciliation is a key part of it. He quotes Lesslie Newbigin: ‘The local congregation is not a branch of the universal Church, but it is the place where the universal Church is made visible.’

As you read this issue, we invite you to join the wider Church in reflecting on the ways in which we are better togetherwhen we work with, pray for, encourage and include each other.

Injustice is everywhere Where do we

IOFTEN joke that ‘territorial coordinator for justice and reconciliation’ is the best-sounding job title in The Salvation Army. After all, who doesn’t believe that we could do with a little more justice and reconciliation in our world? That’s the easy bit! The difficult bit is making sense of these concepts in the contested space of public life today.

The year started with a fresh round of strikes over public sector pay, news of hospitals unable to cope with demand, rises in the cost of living, growing inequality between rich and poor, continued war in Europe and more. There appears to be injustice wherever we look. We encounter it in our news feeds, in our communities and in the circumstances of those seeking our help. We live in a society longing for reconciliation and we ask ourselves, ‘Where do I start?’

With deep political divides lurking beneath the surface, public justiceseeking feels a frightening and foolhardy thing to attempt. And yet we feel the weight of our calling as The Salvation Army pushing us beyond our comfort zone to go and do something.

I want to suggest some starting points for public action that I believe are important.

First, let’s remember who we are. We are not service providers but participants in the mission of God. As a church we declare that ‘Jesus is Lord’

(Romans 10:9). Often, we reduce this to the private sphere, making this about personal salvation and individual faith, but living with this truth should never be hidden away at the personal level only. It is, in fact, a public truth that we attest to, and it has public consequences. When we declare ‘Jesus is Lord’, it is a truth for every aspect of our world – personal, social, economic, political and environmental. Nothing is exempt. This is the beginning of what it means to seek justice and reconciliation.

Second, let’s attempt to be the change we want to see. The basic unit of a society built under the lordship of Christ is the local congregation. Theologian Lesslie Newbigin writes: ‘The local congregation is not a branch of the universal Church, but it is the place where the universal Church is made visible.’ The work of justice and reconciliation must find its place inside Salvation Army expressions. When this happens, it will spill out into public life with integrity.

Third, let’s get political. Of course, I don’t mean party political, as we are non-partisan. Rather, I mean exercising the politics of the Kingdom of God in public life. Jesus gave us plenty to be working on – resisting the power of money (Matthew 6:24), loving your enemy (Matthew 5:43–48), welcoming the stranger (John 4:4–26), freeing the oppressed (Luke 4:18 and 19). These

REFLECT AND RESPOND

What are the personal consequences of believing Jesus is Lord?

What are the public and political consequences of believing Jesus is Lord?

Read Matthew 5:3–10, Matthew 25:31–46 or Luke 4:16–21. How does the passage shape the way you seek justice and reconciliation in your area of influence, both personally and systemically?

actions are not just for individuals. They have systemic consequences at a local, regional, national and international level. In fact, they speak directly into the injustices we see around us, they challenge the world as it is, and they make demands on how we live our lives.

MAJOR NICK COKE Territorial Co-ordinator for

THQ

Justice and Reconciliation

Continuing a new series of topical reflections, Major Nick Coke considers how to seek justice in a society longing for reconciliation

start?

by Garry D Reed

‘God brings me a peace this world cannot give’

Rubie

IWAS brought up in The Salvation Army by my mother from a fairly young age. However, it was only when I was in the later stages of secondary school that I really started to question my faith. I started to understand what I believe and why, which led to a stronger foundation in my relationship with God.

As I grew older, my relationship with him grew stronger. I’ve recognised the extent of my sinful heart when compared to God’s moral law. I’ve realised what Jesus did on the cross for me and how I will never fully be able to understand the extent of his love, that he would suffer and die for a sinner like me.

I see God working in my life at the moment at university. I see his love in a lot of aspects of my life, whether that be in the friendships I’ve made, in

that be in the Ive made, in the church family I am a part of, in my relationship or in my studies. However, I believe God is at work in my life in many ways that I am unaware of too!

Another way I have seen God work in my life is within my university’s Christian Union society. I’m taking on a leadership role in a group called Explore, which provides opportunities to explore faith and to think about the sacrifice and love of Jesus Christ.

Something that I’ve struggled with for a little while is anxiety. This has come in various forms, whether that be overthinking, fear of the future, being irrational about things or doubting if God has a plan for me. All these things can become overwhelming.

One way my faith has helped is the reminder that God is above all things, and that he goes before me in all that I do. This has greatly helped me in moments when my mind has been so loud. He brings me a sense of peace that nothing of this world can give.

He me a sense of peace that of this world can give Two verses

One thing in particular that I am thankful to God for is the friendships I have. I think it’s so important to have people in your life who are not only of good company, but who will also guide you closer to God. It’s been so encouraging to see in these friendships

God’s faithfulness

to me are 6:33 34: ‘But strive first for the Kingdom and all these will be So do not tomorrow, tomorrow its own’ New Revised )

Two Bible verses that has been particularly helpful to me are Matthew 6:33 and 34: ‘But strive first for the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own’ ( Standard Version

Ephesians by Jim Bryden

Available from sps-shop.com priced £6.99 plus delivery

In a new occasional series, Major Malcolm Martin recommends a book for reflection and discussion

ANYONE wishing to explore the nature and implications of unity with others in Christ would find the letter to the Ephesians in the New Testament to be an ideal starting point. The letter repeatedly emphasises that all now share in the blessings of salvation, with every believer equipped to serve within the Body of Christ. This sense of unity is brought about by the work of Jesus, who has broken down barriers of division. As a result, we too are called to ensure the elimination of anything that might prevent us from living in peace and love with one another.

Ephesians is much loved and studied, offering clear advice about living fruitfully in community, as well as profound theological insights into the significance of what Christ has done. Among the many resources available to aid study is a short volume in Jim Bryden’s Journey of Faith series, entitled Ephesians: A Journey into God’s Secret Plan

The book’s short chapters help readers explore some of the key verses in the letter, primarily from a devotional perspective. The accessible style is enhanced by the frequent use of dynamic, modern-idiom versions of Scripture, including The Message and JB Phillips New Testament Bryden gently guides readers to consider the rich teaching of Ephesians in relation to personal transformation and the part that we each play within the family of God.

Read an extractfrom Jim Bryden’s book at salvationist.org.uk/devotions

CLOSE-UP READING CHAPTER 2: A BLESSED AND GLORIOUS LIFE

What is so amazing about grace is not that God gives us something, rather, it is God’s giving us himself! It’s the sheer scale of our salvation and the call to live for God in the world that takes your breath away. The fact that God has made known the mystery of his will, which is to bring all things together in Christ is utterly staggering to the apostle… How God has lavished his love on us!

Occasionally particular words can pop out of Scripture with fresh meaning – in times of difficulty and uncertainty, the author’s reminder that God has gratuitously ‘lavished’ (Ephesians 1:8) grace and love on us might well lift our spirits in praise to Christ.

REFLECT AND DISCUSS

How might you best express your praise for God’s lavish grace and work of transformation in your life?

CLOSE-UP

CHAPTER

READING

11: FORWARD AS ONE

There are no diversions, no shortcuts, just one way forward: Christ’s way. We are all called to mirror Christ’s humility, discipline and, above all, love. It’s not a case of putting up with each other but of looking out for others… The heart of it all is this: Being with Christ means loving like Christ… All matter.

The author’s emphasis on a positive approach to unity, founded on the love and peace of Christ, can help to ensure that the contribution of each believer is highly valued in aiding all to progress towards greater depths of faith. It’s a reminder of the richly diverse range of gifts poured out on believers, to be used for the encouragement and benefit of all. Apostles and prophets, evangelists and pastor-teachers, leaders and encouragers, carers and healers, those with understanding and wisdom, and all who serve, give and faithfully follow Christ – ‘all’ should be valued together for their role in helping the family of God move forward.

REFLECT AND DISCUSS

How might you thank others for the support they offer on your journey of faith?

M

MAJOR MALCOLM MARTIN Publishing Secretary THQ

How might you use the gifts God has given you to benefit others in their discipleship?

Love for enemies

Major Tim Johnson considers how to react in the face of provocation

LUKE 6:27–36

ONE Friday morning at the drop-in at Bicester Corps, a client asked me why I had a pen and paper in my hand.

I explained that I was mulling over where to begin a Bible study that I needed to write. His response was: ‘The Bible is full of some really difficult to understand stuff.’ I replied: ‘Yes, but the bit I’m looking at isn’t difficult to understand – it’s difficult to do.’

Jesus’ command in verses 27 and 28 of our study passage is clear, direct and shocking: ‘Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who ill-treat you.’ It’s like having a cold glass of water unexpectedly thrown in your face – it takes you aback and makes you think, ‘What? Is that really necessary?’

If we look for biblical examples, we might think of Elisha’s response to the Aramean soldiers who were blinded by God’s power as they were preparing to attack his home. Elisha leads them to the city of Samaria. Then, in response to the king of Israel’s question as to whether he should kill them, the prophet asks the king to spare their lives and feed them well (see 2 Kings 6:18–23). This results in Aram and Israel living at peace.

In Proverbs 25:21 and 22, we read: ‘If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.’

In Jesus’ parable, it is the Samaritan, someone who would typically be viewed as an enemy of the Jewish people, who acts in love and care.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Who is your enemy?

If that word is too dramatic, who are the people you would be pleased not to have to deal with again?

Is it a person in the next country or the person next door? Given the highly partisan nature of social media, it could be anybody who’s not in your echo chamber. He or she is certainly the last person we want to treat well.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

How do we go about loving our enemies?

We can begin by following the instructions Jesus gives to his disciples, after commanding them to love their enemies.

Start with what we say: ‘Bless those who curse you.’

It doesn’t matter what evil or lies other people say about us – continue to speak love and truth about them, keep speaking of and remembering God’s love for them. Following Jesus is not a tit-fortat, ping-pong game of untruths; it’s serving up God’s goodness against the odds no matter what they are.

Next, act right: ‘Do good to those who hate you.’ Doing the right thing will not be easy but Jesus challenges us to do it anyway. Choosing to love our enemies doesn’t automatically mean that everyone will love us. Some people who are sympathetic to us will not understand and turn away; those who are antagonistic will merely be hardened in their attitude.

Don’t forget: ‘Pray for those who ill-treat you.’ In a way that reflects his love of them and not your anger at being mistreated, we are to bring our enemy before God.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Consider how you have spoken and acted towards your enemies and how you might pray for them.

In verse 29 Jesus suggests reacting in a way an enemy would not expect: ‘If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also.’ The attacker might well anticipate an equally violent response. Instead, by keeping their hands down and not going on the offensive, the victim not only opens themselves to further injury but also offers opportunity for a pause.

Rather than escalating the situation, such a reaction can pave the way for peace and reconciliation. Although it might be risky, it can be gamechanging.

Jesus, in his Sermon on the Mount, teaches his disciples: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God’ (Matthew 5:9).

In verses 29 and 30 of our study passage, Jesus teaches his listeners that possessions are less important than love: ‘If someone takes your coat, do not withhold your shirt from them. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back.’ At a time when, for many people, possessions are everything, this idea is groundbreaking.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Prayerfully consider which of these you find most difficult to deal with. Ask God to direct you in ways that will help you reflect him more clearly.

In verses 32 to 35, Jesus’ teaching –to love, to do good and to give generously to our enemies – highlights how our behaviour should be different to that of our enemies.

How are we in better spiritual shape if we only do the things that those who do not know or follow God do? Mahatma Gandhi believed in non-violent protest. He once said: ‘It is easy enough to be friendly to one’s friends. But to befriend the one who regards himself as your enemy is the quintessence of true religion. The other is mere business.’

Above all, we are to reflect the nature of God. As God’s representatives, we are to show grace, reach out across the canyon of hurt and offence, make the way open for relationship and ‘be merciful, just as your Father is merciful’ (v36).

The apostle Paul says that we are to be more than conquerors through God’s love (see Romans 8:37). How do we become more than conquerors? By persuading the person who used to be our enemy that you mean them well, by making them your friend and by showing them God’s love and mercy.

Prayer Matters contains daily devotions covering specific areas in the territory, current worldwide situations and personal reflection and relationship with God. A PDF of the unedited booklet is available to download from salvationist.org.uk/resources

TERRITORIAL PRAYER GATHERING FOCUS by Major Christine

Kingscott (Assistant Secretary for Spiritual Life Development)

SATURDAY 21 JANUARY

Pray for Jo Clark (IHQ) as she shares in the gathering what God has laid on her heart. Pray for wisdom for those leading the different seminars and that everyone present hears from God and experiences something new from him. Pray that the worship and spaces for prayer are times of encounter and renewal.

SUNDAY 22 JANUARY

As the gathering concludes, pray that everyone will have felt God’s presence, been inspired by his teaching and feel empowered to go forward in his name. Pray for safe journeys home and ask God to empower the delegates to share within their local church what they have heard and experienced.

ECUMENICAL FOCUS by Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts (Territorial Ecumenical Officer)

MONDAY 23 JANUARY

The Salvation Army’s ecclesiological statement says the Army ‘is an expression of the Body of Christ on Earth, the Church universal, and is a Christian denomination in permanent mission to the unconverted’. Lord, as we fulfil our mission as part of the Church universal, help us to strengthen our unity with fellow believers. Amen.

TUESDAY 24 JANUARY

Through the Holy Spirit we are united in the Body of Christ and are called to serve one another with the gifts of the Spirit. Lord, enable us to use these gifts ‘so that the Body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith’ (Ephesians 4:12 and 13). Amen.

WEDNESDAY 25 JANUARY

‘In him [Christ] the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit’ (Ephesians 2:21 and 22). Lord, through our unity, may your living presence among us be revealed to the world. Amen.

THURSDAY 26 JANUARY

God’s people are on a pilgrimage, living by Kingdom values and ‘looking for the city that is to come’ (Hebrews 13:14). Lord, give us strength for the journey. May we support and encourage fellow pilgrims – and be open to receive support and encouragement from them – as we move towards the day when your Kingdom comes in all its fullness. Amen.

FRIDAY

27 JANUARY – HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY

We pause to remember the millions of people murdered during the Holocaust and in the later genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur. Lord, as we reflect on these terrible events, fill our hearts with love for others and stir us to seek justice and reconciliation in the world today. Amen.

PRAYER REQUESTS

MAJOR TIM JOHNSON Corps Officer Oxford

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 and the Territorial Prayer Network will uphold them in prayer.

Ecumenism without borders

Dr Nicola Brady tells Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts about her role as general secretary of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland

DURING this Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, many churches have been using material provided by Churches Together in Britain and Ireland (CTBI) to support their prayer and reflection. But that’s just one element of CTBI’s work.

‘We create space for inter-church engagement on a British-Irish basis and work closely with the national ecumenical bodies in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales,’ explains Dr Nicola Brady.

‘We aim to add value to their work, helping to share the learning from that, providing additional resources and raising the profile of their work in the public sphere.

‘There are also issues that cross national boundaries that are worth addressing from a British-Irish perspective. So, we have had good engagement around climate justice and our response to people who arrive seeking asylum. Other major strands of our work include interfaith dialogue and racial justice. Racial Justice Sunday is a longstanding event in the Church calendar, for which CTBI contributes the resources.

‘CTBI also creates opportunities for senior church leaders across Britain and Ireland to join together. That was valuable during the Covid-19 pandemic, when churches were facing unprecedented challenges. Out of that we were able to issue a call to prayer, which united people across the different jurisdictions.’

CTBI’s work has an international dimension, including supporting a distinctive British-Irish contribution to global ecumenical forums such as the World Council of Churches and the Conference of European Churches.

‘There is value in thinking together about what we want to say in these spaces and to raise the questions that we want to ask with a common voice so that we get better engagement around the issues that are priorities for us,’ Nicola says.

‘One of the things that we’re best known for is adapting the international material for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. This reflects the fact that there’s a shared culture on these islands and shared experiences to draw on that can help to contextualise the material.’

This year, the material is themed Be-Longing: Praying for Unity Amidst Injustice and reflects on how to pray for Christian unity when Christians are part of unjust structures. It invites churches to

pray together for unity and, in particular, acknowledge institutional racism, which contributes to division and prejudice within the Church as well as in society.

Nicola’s background and experience provide a good foundation for her role with CTBI. Growing up in a heavily militarised border area of Northern Ireland during the Troubles, she was used to seeing military helicopters land in the fields behind her family’s house and encountering soldiers while out walking the dog.

‘Faith was really important in our family,’ she affirms. ‘It was my grandparents who instilled that deep sense of faith at the heart of the family. They encouraged us to have conversations around what we were seeing and hearing, and what it meant to love our neighbour in those circumstances.’

After completing her PhD in the field of church and political history, Nicola worked for the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference, heading up the Council for Justice and Peace.

‘It took me all over Europe looking at the work the Church is doing around peace and reconciliation,’ she recalls. ‘If you’re serious about doing that in a church context, inter-church relations are crucial. It was in the ecumenical work that I found an area that was so hope-filled and life-giving, yet so underdeveloped and with huge potential.’

In 2016 Nicola became the general secretary of the Irish Council of Churches before joining CTBI in January 2022. She explains what her CTBI role involves:

‘There are different strands to it. You have the typical CEO elements – the day-to-day running of the charity, management of the staff and working with trustees to ensure good governance. Then there’s the strategic piece – working closely with member churches and our partners in the national ecumenical bodies, listening to their concerns and designing a work plan that responds to them. A third strand is to be an ambassador for CTBI and make the work of the churches together visible in all sorts of spaces – whether that’s the major events of individual member churches or events organised by civic or political leaders.

‘During the first year I’ve worked closely with the trustees and staff to get a sense of our existing work and the major challenges and opportunities that our member churches can work on together. We have put together a draft strategy

with five priority areas: strengthening ecumenical relationships across Britain and Ireland; working together for mission and the common good; facilitating dialogue on Church, nationhood and identity; working for global peace and justice; and modelling servant leadership.

‘Now the focus is on engaging with our member churches about what that will look like in terms of our work plans and how we support them. CTBI really exists to help churches to do things together. Hopefully, in doing so, we’re not only deepening the relationships between them but also making the work we do together more visible as an active Christian witness.’

One of those member churches is The Salvation Army, and Nicola speaks positively about its ecumenical involvement.

‘My experience working with The Salvation Army goes back to my time in the Catholic Bishops’ Conference,’ she says. ‘I worked closely with Salvation Army representatives, particularly around our advocacy on poverty and income issues. I valued their insights and experience, and the Army’s deep commitment to improving the lives of people living in poverty.

‘When I moved to the Irish Council of Churches, where more of the work was in the area of peace and reconciliation, what struck me was how the Army managed to have a presence and connections in every community and move across boundaries in a way that others had not managed to do.

‘Now at CTBI, one of the things I’ve appreciated is The Salvation Army’s global connection. Bringing that perspective to the conversations around issues such as migration and climate justice, as well as the nature of ecumenism and the vision for our ecumenical relations is so valuable.

‘I hope CTBI is able to support members of The Salvation Army in their work and lighten the load through fellowship, resources and ideas, and through creating the space for reflection that we all need from time to time.’

Find out more about CTBI and download the Be-Longing material at ctbi.org.uk

LIEUT-COLONEL JONATHAN ROBERTS Territorial Ecumenical Officer THQ

One Church, many f

IWAS born and raised in The Salvation Army. Our door was always open and the kettle was always on the stove. As an officers’ child, I was taught to greet everyone with a smile, whether I knew them or not. Many years later, that is still part of my personality.

I was born into a Punjabi family, but my parents were appointed to Karachi, the port city in the south of Pakistan where people from all over the country go to make their living. Because of this, my accent wasn’t Punjabi. I have two uncles, one from Karachi and one from Iran. Both are good cooks and brought different cuisines to our family as they made Sindhi and Karachi dishes. After a few years, my parents went to Lahore and they took that multicultural taste with them.

While living in the Salvation Army compound in Lahore, we benefited from different thoughts, cultures and world views through missionaries from around the globe. All these experiences have helped me to become open to listening, knowing and understanding people and their uniqueness.

I returned to Karachi to take up nursing and lived in residence. This time, I experienced living with different denominations of Christianity. Through my friends, I came across different beliefs and practices. My mind was blown away by the many similarities in our faith.

I went through a long process of accepting my calling as an officer. At William Booth College, the community was so welcoming and accepting. So many people called me to their place for dinner and were equally open to tasting my cooking and food. It was a beautiful example of acceptance and celebration from both sides.

Three years ago, when I arrived in the UK, the most exciting thing for me was to taste different cuisines. So many colours, smells, textures and flavours! If you ask a young British person what their favourite food is, they might say ‘tikka wrap’, ‘Italian’ or ‘Chinese’. The world today accepts and acknowledges diversity in cuisine. Now imagine what it would be like if people years ago never made any changes – we would never know what we were missing.

In the Old Testament, Ruth and Naomi were from different cultures and backgrounds. In the book of Ruth, she replied when Naomi would send her back: ‘Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God’ (1:16). Ruth followed her heart and went with Naomi to Bethlehem and her influence on others increased. Instead of looking down on her as a foreigner, the Hebrews accepted her into their society. Ruth and Naomi’s story wasn’t one-sided; they both tried to understand and support each other.

Today are we as open to accepting each other in our Church as we are open to change in our cuisine? In the parable of the great banquet, Jesus said that the master of the house told the servants to ‘compel them to come in’ to the great feast (Luke 14:23).

During the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Lieutenant Nazia Yousaf encourages us to be inclusive as we expand God’s Kingdom together

flavours

Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 12:18 that there are many parts, but one body of Christ. Are we ready to play our part? Are we willing and intentional in our efforts to spice up the Church and our congregations? Are we allowing others to use their gifts and talents to expand Kingdom business so everyone can feel welcome and accepted? What is stopping us from becoming an inclusive, diverse Church?

God has placed you where you are to enrich the land with your gifts, talents, story and values. Are you afraid to use your gifts because you fear rejection, or because it takes too much energy? I encourage you to offer your skills and talents. What new flavour can you bring forward in the Church that people would recognise as belonging to them and make them want to be part of it?

I have a vision for the day when The Salvation Army reflects that young British person who has tasted and can enjoy all different cuisines. Just as they own that diversity, one day all these different flavours of worship will be accepted and celebrated. One body in Christ, different parts. One Church, different flavours, all equally important.

The change might not come easily, but we cannot be satisfied with excuses for keeping the menu the same. People will go to other restaurants.

A COMMENT FROM THE TC

I am greatly encouraged by the theme for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Be-Longing: Praying for Unity Amidst Injustice, says Commissioner Anthony Cotterill. I urge us all to join in exploring how the work of promoting Christian unity can contribute to racial justice across all levels of society. As I read the Week’s resources from Churches Together in Britain and Ireland, I am reminded of the statement Gill and I sent out in June 2020 following the terrible murder of George Floyd, who was among other things a former employee of The Salvation Army. Our hearts were heavy and hurting because of the realisation of the way racism infects our communities, including the Church and, yes, The Salvation Army.

We continue to have a deep longing in our hearts to see a just and inclusive society for those of various ethnic backgrounds both within and outside The Salvation Army. The statement in 2020 said that ‘we will intentionally seek ways to confront and fight racism wherever it is found’. With this intention, in January 2021 the territory’s Cabinet commissioned a Racial Inclusion Working Group (RIWG) to implement recommendations made by our Territorial Advisory Council, recommendations that came largely out of personal conversations with Salvationists and friends from various ethnic origins within our Army.

I am pleased to say that much progress has been made and that many of the recommendations have been completed but there is still much more work to do. For example, we still have too many Salvationists from various ethnicities in our communities across the territory who sadly find it difficult to engage with or be embraced by local expressions of the Army. The reasons for this may be manifold but in essence can be traced to a need for greater love, understanding and determination, which overtakes and corrects what amounts to unrighteousness and injustice. I am certain that the longing for the justice and righteousness as outlined by Isaiah (see Isaiah 1:17) is something that we must all aspire to and so I urge each one of us, in 2023, along with all members of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland, to seek justice for all and to help and encourage those who are oppressed.

L

LIEUTENANT NAZIA YOUSAF Corps Officer Stockport Heaton Norris

The RIWG continues to look for ways to ensure greater inclusion but, of course, it was never going to be the responsibility of just one group! We all have a part to play as we long for and work for justice and inclusion for people of every ethnic background in all aspects of our community, including our beloved Army! I am sure God loves this!

Newcastle City Temple Building local relationships

FAST FACTS

CONNECTED CONGREGATIONS

For the past 14 years Brunswick Methodist Church have kindly hosted our corps in their building. We have now relocated to our own new hall, having shared a final farewell service with our hosts.

The move happened at such a busy time for us, just before Christmas. The whole building project has suffered various delays and inflated costs with issues in the supply chain and there are still some outstanding works to be completed. With the proposed opening date having been postponed several times we felt it was important to move in ahead of Christmas to try and maximise on the opportunities for outreach and keep faith with our existing members.

I arrived during the Covid-19 pandemic, when ecumenically not a lot happened. However, from the corps perspective they were certainly appreciative of the generous provision by Brunswick Methodist Church in providing us with a home for far longer than anticipated. The corps enjoyed many occasions of shared worship on Sunday evenings with Café Church being a highlight. Lots of wonderful friendships were made between members of both congregations and it’s been good to see members from Brunswick visit us in our new hall. I’m not sure that the corps would have stayed together quite as well as they have, had it not been for the kindness of Brunswick, and we remain extremely grateful to them.

GETTING TO KNOW THE COMMUNITY

Our new building is a few miles away from where we were, so we have a

whole new community to get to know. We’re already building relationships locally, and we’ve been overwhelmed by local support.

The welcome we’ve received from local churches and people has been hugely encouraging. The band have been out playing at the nearby Morrisons and this is something that we hope to continue every few months. Corps members gave out ‘bags of kindness’ containing sweets, chocolate and an invitation to our carol service. We look forward to expanding our outreach over the coming weeks and months.

UNITED IN FELLOWSHIP AND MISSION

We have only been in our new building for a couple of months, in the heart of a residential area with a diverse community and a mixed economy. We’ve consulted mission specialists, conducted a survey with our existing corps folk and held a drop-in event for potential newcomers.

It’s so important that we consider

everyone and take time to listen and get it right. Our desire is for a united fellowship, and we’ve already seen new people venturing in and old connections coming back.

DISCOVERING GOD’S DESIGN

Now that we have a space of our own, we are less restricted in what we can do with our programme. We’re working with other churches in the area to ensure that we’re not duplicating something that is already being done and to find out what is still needed that we might be able to provide. We’ve received some grant funding from Asda and have opened a warm space where people can drop in and have a soup lunch.

We’re excited to be here and see what God has in store for us. We look forward to getting to know our neighbours and discovering how we can best serve the community. We’re also excited about the opportunities we have to develop the corps spiritual programme and experience more of ‘life in all its fullness’ together.

Major Liz Hancock

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

ECUMENICAL

EVENT

EVENT

HADLEIGH FARM Hundreds of people attended the estate’s Christmas market. The Hub Café served festive food and drink and the rare breeds centre educated children about its animals. Attendees participated in a Nativity photo booth and 139 families joined in Muddy Church. The day ended with a Christmas singalong with Hadleigh

FUNDRAISING

DARLASTON The corps hosted its first ever Messy Church event at Christmas. In total, 110 people piled into the hall as families explored the Christmas story together. Great new connections were made, existing relationships were strengthened, and a follow-up event is already being planned. – LH-N

HORSHAM Thanks to donations from the community, the corps helped nearly 360 families in need at Christmas. They provided toys and gifts for children, a treat for parents and a voucher to provide Christmas dinner for the whole family. – AR

SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD The Silky Striders running club held a 10km run in aid of the Christmas appeal. The run commenced ahead of a community morning at the hall, which culminated in runners, members of the community and the fellowship sharing in a carol service, where the Silky Striders presented toys, gifts and a donation of nearly £890. – MB

BOOTLE Pupils from St Mary’s Preparatory School collected donations totalling £600 to purchase books for the Christmas Present Appeal. Corps volunteers sorted and distributed packages to children and families across South Sefton with help from social services, health visitors and schools. – AR

Belfast Sydenham YP Band play carols at the Grand Opera House’s pantomime

GOVAN Corps musicians held a lunchtime concert for about 500 Ukrainian parents and children on board a former cruise ship on the Clyde being used to house refugees. After handing out hundreds of Christmas parcels, they played a mix of English and Ukrainian carols as children and adults who live on the ship performed a Nativity play. Corps officers Majors Mark and Tracy Bearcroft paid tribute to the families and those who took part in the event. – MD

Temple Band. – WW

Cirencester Band provide music for the Churches Together carol service

FUNDRAISING

EVENT

OUTREACH

OUTREACH

SOUTH WALES The Celtic Manor Resort and International Convention Centre teamed up with the Army to provide more than 900 Christmas dinners for people in need or experiencing homelessness. Another 580 donated meals supported the work of Newport Corps, Stow Park Community Centre, Pobl, Moved by Compassion and Eden Gate. – AR

LIVERPOOL STONEYCROFT Written by and starring corps members Trish and Billy, two sell-out performances of Cinderella put a fresh spin on the tale. Performed alongside local drama group Valley Community Theatre and other corps members, the pantomime raised more than £150 for corps funds. – AR

OUTREACH

COMMUNITY

ENVIRONMENT

CUMBRIA The territorial commander and the divisional commander for the North West Division added their names to a joint faith group’s letter to the prime minister and the secretary of state

– AR

Residents’ chalk murals help spread the Christmas story during South Leeds Outreach Centre’s annual lantern festival

Trowbridge Bandmaster Marston Blake receives £500 on behalf of the Westerleigh Group from the mayor, Councillor Graham Hill, during a memorial service at West Wiltshire Crematorium

Sheffield Citadel Band play Christmas carols on BBC Radio Sheffield

Poole Band spread the good news at a nearby supermarket

Market Rasen Air Cadets present donations to Territorial Envoy Terence Carpenter for the corps food bank

to express concern over the recent decision to open a coal mine in Cumbria.

OUTREACH

EVENT

SNETTISHAM The hall was filled with festive fun as corps and community shared in a Christmas tea. It was the first time the congregation was able to gather in this way since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic and everyone commented on how special it was. – EH

DONCASTER A two-day Christmas tree festival included 15 trees, fellowship and food. More than 200 people attended, many entering the hall for the first time. Trees were created by all sections and groups and biscuits were made by a Ukrainian family from the fellowship. Junior musicians also held a cake, coffee and carols event, where donations were received towards the corps Ukrainian project. – CW

GATESHEAD Major Elizabeth McCaw-Aldworth (Sunderland Monkwearmouth) led a carol service in Spanish. Despite adverse weather, more than 40 people attended after being invited by the corps Salvadorean members. The children were delighted by a visit from Papa Noël. For the majority of the guests, this was the first time they had visited The Salvation Army. – AH

MUSIC

ANGUS Bellshill Band marked the 24th anniversary of supporting the Army’s ministry in the county. The full day of ministry witnessed to hundreds through church services in Forfar and open-air ministry at a hospice, with Band Sergeant Commissioner Ivor Telfer sharing a message at each service. The band’s annual ministry has raised nearly £45,000 for local charities. Former Bellshill soldiers Majors Jim and Sandra McCluskey led the work in the area until their retirement in 2015 and continue to serve the community as Good Neighbours chaplains. – MS

NEWS IN BRIEF

BOOTLE Nine young adults enrolled with the Prince’s Trust volunteered to help the corps with its Christmas Present Appeal. They came armed with donations and distributed gifts to vulnerable members of the Merseyside community. – AR

SOUTHPORT More than 200 families in the area were referred for support as the cost of living crisis continued to bite. More than 450 children had presents to open thanks to the Christmas Present Appeal, which was supported by members of the community. – AR

TROWBRIDGE Thanks to the generosity of the public, churches and businesses, including the military personnel at Warminster Garrison, the corps provided Christmas presents to more than 200 children and food vouchers to more than 100 families. – ML

BLACKPOOL Blackpool South hosted a Christmas Day meal for people who would otherwise be on their own, while Blackpool Citadel served festive food to people experiencing homelessness, including users of the Bridge Project. Corps officers Captains John and Naomi Clifton said that demand was higher compared to previous years. – AR

LONDON An ensemble from Regent Hall supported the Judicial Office Choir at a carol service. Their playing was enjoyed by the large crowd of judiciary, staff and visitors. Solo items included ‘Christmas Joy’ and Croydon Citadel Choir Leader Rhoda Atkinson sang ‘O Holy Night’. More than £370 was raised for the work of the Army and Alzheimer’s Society. – RA

BOURNE The hall was full for the community carol service, which moved indoors from Wellhead Park due to inclement weather. A number who had never been inside the hall before said how much they enjoyed it. The corps also enjoyed Godly Play from corps officer Lieutenant Sarah O’Grady during an Advent morning service. – CG

INVERNESS After a gap of three years due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the band and songsters resumed their annual visit to Invergordon Parish Church. More than 200 people enjoyed the programme of carols and readings, themed O Come Immanuel, and donated more than £1,000 towards the Army’s work in the Inverness area. – CW

GLOUCESTER The band and songsters held an evening of carols and Bible readings at a retirement village. Residents sang with enthusiasm and the ensemble was pleased to be asked to return to make their Christmas special. – AB

DARLASTON The corps, along with band members from Willenhall, provided a free carol concert at the town hall. The event was a great success and more than 200 people attended. – LH-N

Twickenham Band present carols in the car park

READING WEST

STOCKPORT CITADEL

PAT Llewellyn was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Lieutenant Portia Stirling-Mack, during an ‘old-fashioned meeting’ where bonnets were worn and technology was banned. Pat shared a testimony about how she first came to the corps and why she feels that it is her spiritual home. The fellowship welcomed her warmly before singing a favourite song that Pat had chosen. Pat is pictured with her husband, Roy, and Lieutenant Portia. – PS-M

DUNSTABLE

BRAM and Mary Moate were welcomed as adherents by corps officer Captain Maisie Veacock. Bram and Mary were soldiers at Ashtonunder-Lyne many years ago, until the corps closed and they lost touch with the Army. Bram and Mary have brought great blessing to the fellowship since they arrived. They are pictured with Captain Maisie and Recruiting Sergeant Wendy Willis. – PH

KEITH, a regular and much-loved presence at coffee mornings, came to the corps looking for a safe place to be. Although unable to attend on Sundays for health reasons, Keith sees coffee morning as his church, where God is very much part of the conversations and is recognised constantly. He was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Captain Emma Gorin. Keith confidently and excitedly shared his testimony of feeling loved and being aware of belonging for the first time ever. Keith is a reminder that church happens each time our doors are opened and that worship happens whenever we are gathered together. Keith is pictured with fellow adherents and friends, Sarah, Helen, Mary, Maria and Katy. – EG

TUNSTALL

BROTHER and sister Johno and Annabelle Quick were welcomed as adherents by corps officer Major Steve Brevitt. The occasion was filled with smiles as they were joined by family and friends. The family has a long tradition of Army service and commitment, with both Annabelle and Johno having been junior soldiers. They felt it was the right time to take a further step of faith. Johno and Annabelle are pictured with Adherents Secretary Sue Leadbeater and Major Steve. – SL

JOHN Whewall was enrolled as a soldier during the corps anniversary weekend by corps officer Major Rebecca Wilson. John began attending around nine years ago with his friend, Bob, and soon felt at home. He decided he would like to become more involved and began volunteering in the charity shop and assisting at the corps, always with a smile. After becoming an adherent, he decided to deepen his commitment to God and the Army. John’s family and friends attended his enrolment. John is pictured with Major John Waters, who guided him through his classes, Colour Sergeant Gerald Newton and Major Rebecca. – ML

ST MARY CRAY

MAJOR CLIFFORD KENT

MAJOR Clifford Kent entered the training college from Bolsover Corps, Derbyshire, in August 1961 as part of the Servants of Christ session. Following his commissioning he was appointed to Newcastle City Temple as a youth officer.

Cliff came from a strong Salvation Army background, with his parents serving at Bolsover Corps for many years.

He met his wife, Patricia, at the training college in 1961. They were appointed to various corps in England and Wales, including Cwmbran,

Penge, Canterbury Temple and Chartham, and Sunderland Monkwearmouth.

There were also appointments as divisional youth secretary in South Yorkshire and in public relations in Nottingham and Southampton before retirement in 1994.

Cliff remained active in retirement, preaching in many churches in the local area while his health allowed. He also wrote articles for the Army papers, as well as other publications. Towards the end he had to reduce this until his health gave out completely.

He will be missed greatly, not just by his family, but by the people he lived among and the churches where he preached. Cliff leaves wife, Pat, and sons, Mark and Paul. – MK

Please note that soldiers’ and adherents’ tributes that are submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included. Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email address as this could delay publication. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

ROBERT PATTINSON NEWCASTLE CITY TEMPLE

ROBERT was born in Newcastle in March 1943 to Salvationist parents, Florrie and Bob, and was eventually joined by younger siblings, Brian and Beryl. He was dedicated to God at Byker and progressed through the YP section there. The family transferred to Newcastle City Temple in 1955, where Robert became a soldier and bandsman.

On leaving school Robert entered the police force and he was eventually promoted to CID sergeant, serving for a number of years as a valued member of the community.

In 1965 Robert married Thelma, who was also a member of the corps, and they had three children, Mark, Deborah and Christopher. All were dedicated to God and brought up in the corps.

Throughout his life Robert was well known and respected for his support of Army standards, his love of his family and his support of his beloved Newcastle United FC. He will be sadly missed. – BI

ARMY PEOPLE

Local officers appointed

COLOUR SGT IAN JONES, Morriston

DEP SL JONATHAN MEAD, Morriston

CS MAJOR RUDI BRUINEWOUD, Newcastle City Temple

Wedding anniversaries

Golden MAJORS CHRISTINA AND WILLIAM FRASER, 3 February

Dedicated to God

POPPY, daughter of Lorin Skillen, at Belfast North by Majors Ian and Sally McBride

Retired officers’ birthdays

MAJOR RITA COX, 85 on 29 January

MAJOR JEAN SMITH, 90 on 3 February

MAJOR VICTOR KIDD, 80 on 4 February

Promoted to Glory

PHILLIP PINFOLD, Rugby

JENNY RAMIREZ , Guisborough

RTD B/SGT BRIAN EDWARDS, Southampton Sholing, on 7 December

LILIAN CARDY, Hythe, on 10 December

RTD CT JEAN CRAIG, Oakengates, on 15 December

STANLEY CLEGG, Maidenhead, on 25 December

MURIEL BRADWELL , Sunderland Millfield, on 27 December

DEREK JACOBSON, Kettering Citadel, on 4 January

LEONARD SMITH, Doncaster, on 5 January

RTD SL ARTHUR STEADY, Malvern, on 5 January

MAJOR FRED RAINER from Princess Royal University Hospital on 9 January

Bereaved

MAJOR EIRLYS JONES of her brother Raymond Jones

MONICA PINFOLD, Rugby, of her husband Phillip Pinfold

SHEILA EDWARDS, Southampton Sholing, of her husband Rtd B/Sgt Brian Edwards, Gavin Edwards and Glynis Shoults of their father

JOYCE CLEGG, Maidenhead, of her husband Stanley Clegg, Kathryn Powell and Anthony Clegg of their father

JANET BRADWELL , Karen Raine and Dawn Winch, all Sunderland Millfield, of their mother Muriel Bradwell

MAJOR ANDREA SAWYER , William Booth College, Neil Jacobson and Paul Jacobson of their father Derek Jacobson

DORIS SMITH, Doncaster, of her husband Leonard Smith

MAJOR IONA RAINER of her husband Major Fred Rainer

ENGAGEMENTS

General Brian Peddle and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle

Sat 14 – Mon 23 Jan India South Eastern Territory

Tue 24 – Sun 29 Jan India Central Territory Mon 30 Jan – Tue 7 Feb India Eastern Territory

Chief of the Staff Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

Sat 21 – Tue 24 Jan The Netherlands, Czech Republic and Slovakia Territory

Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill and Commissioner Gillian Cotterill Sun 22 Jan WBC (territorial envoy annual seminar)

Chief Secretary Colonel Paul Main and Colonel Jenine Main

Fri 20 – Sun 22 Jan Encounter Prayer Gathering

Thu 26 – Fri 27 Jan Missenden (Going Deeper) * Sun 29 Jan Winton (retirement of Captain Nicola Muir)

*Colonel Jenine Main only

NOTICES

Holocaust Memorial Day

Access prayers, reflections and advice to help you mark Holocaust Memorial Day on 27 January on the Council of Christians and Jews website at ccj.org.uk . The theme this year is Ordinary People, and the day is a time to remember the 6 million Jews and other people murdered in the Holocaust and in genocides since then.

Starfish Mentoring Programme

Discover how your corps can mentor children and young people in primary and secondary schools (ages 9 to 16) with The Salvation Army’s Starfish programme from Youth and Children’s Ministries. Join an online open evening at 7pm on 23 January – to book your place, email childrenyouth@ salvationarmy.org.uk

SOUNDS

Salvationist Radio

Update for Fortress Radio listeners

Salvationist Radio will launch at the end of February. From 30 January you won’t be able to listen to Fortress Radio via the apps, podcasts or Amazon Alexa devices while we redevelop these services - you can continue to listen to the station via the Fortress Radio website: fortressradio.online Visit salvationist.org.uk/radio for further information.

SITTINGBOURNE, SHORTLANDS ROAD ME10 3JT

Saturday 28 January, 3pm

CELEBRATION OF MINISTRY AND RETIREMENT SERVICE

for Major Linda Perkin

Led by Majors Mark and Linda Herbert followed by a buffet meal and musical programme by Southend Citadel Songsters at 6.30pm

Letters of greeting can be sent to susan.jones@salvationarmy.org.uk

BRISTOL EASTON, HASSELL DRIVE BS2 0AN Saturday 28 January, 7pm

INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND

Tickets £10 (no booking fee) from eventbrite.co.uk/e/479839401567

Sunday 29 January, 10.30am and 2.15pm Contact Hilary on 07504 217151

SOUTHBOURNE, 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

TO LET

ALTEA, SPAIN Modern two-bedroom, two-bathroom heated apartment. Pool, tennis, garden, garage. Shops, restaurants, beach close, hill-walking. Warm winter area. Airport transfers available. Tel 02920 759314 or email dee.jones@virgin.net.

MAJORCA Beautiful, well-equipped apartment. Two double bedrooms (sleeps a total of two to six). Walk-in shower, second toilet. Near seafront amenities. Large balcony, lovely view, quiet area. Competitive prices. Email carol@ckendall.co.uk or tel 01274 678 889 / 07308 506064.

TOPSHAM, DEVON Two-bedroom cottage overlooking Exe Estuary and hills. Local shops, inns, teashops, walks. Coast, moors, Exeter nearby. Tel 02920 759314 or email dee.jones@virgin.net.

are the Body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.