Salvationist 21 May 2022

For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

70p / 21 May 2022

SALVATIONIST GOD’S WAY WITH ME ICO DELEGATES SHARE THEIR TESTIMONIES

EXPLORING RECONCILIATION AT THE CTE FORUM PAGES 12 AND 13

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

PEOPLE IN DEBT ARE MORE LONELY NOW THAN DURING THE LOCKDOWN, CHARITY WARNS People in debt are suffering rising levels of loneliness and isolation as the cost-of-living squeeze hits, Christians Against Poverty (Cap) has warned.

The charity surveyed 750 of its clients... It found that clients who were struggling with debt were often too worried to answer the door, leave the house or answer the phone.

Statistics show that the number of people reporting loneliness or isolation had increased among those in debt since the end of lockdown.

Before coming to Cap for debt advice and support, 60 per cent of respondents said that they felt lonely – an increase from 51 per cent of clients 18 months ago, when Covid-19 restrictions were at their height.

About 40 per cent of respondents said that they had not had a meaningful conversation in the past week: up from 31 per cent 18 months ago; and two thirds said that they had no one to turn to when they had a problem, a 6 per cent increase…

The director of external affairs at Cap, Gareth McNab, said: ‘For many of us, the easing of lockdown restrictions meant a thankful end to isolation; but for thousands of lowincome families struggling in debt and poverty, the isolation and loneliness they feel is actually getting worse due to the cost-of-living crisis and mounting debts.’

Church Times

SALVATIONIST

STREET ANGELS FOUNDER SEES ‘OPPORTUNITY’ FOR CHRISTIANS AS STUDY SHOWS YOUTH ARE ‘BOMBARDED’ WITH ALCOHOL ON TV A new study has found that out of the 20 most popular TV shows aimed at young people, 98 per cent of scenes contain alcohol and drinking.

The report, published by Nottingham Trent University, names shows like Made in Chelsea and Love Island…

Paul Blakey, founder of Christian Nightlife Initiative Network and Street Angels, says… ‘Pubs are an essential place for people to hang out… But, of course, there’s always the other side.

It is attracting people into alcohol – consuming lots of alcohol – and that whole culture that goes with it.’

Reality television shows have been the catalyst for hundreds of influencers to find fame and notoriety. Even a short appearance can generate thousands of Instagram followers and hefty PR deals…

Paul continues: ‘I think there’s a massive opportunity ... for Christians within that whole influencing culture to ... showcase a different lifestyle.’

A national campaign to reflect on and record the contributions of the faith community during the Covid-19 crisis … has been launched by Spurgeon’s College.

The #FaithInCommunity campaign seeks to collate faith communities’ pandemic stories, which will be submitted in book form to the British Library as an official record…

From food bank support to community leadership and volunteering, churches and faith organisations across the country provided much needed support to their local areas throughout the crisis.

‘The pandemic was a moment in time when faith communities mobilised themselves in a way not seen for generations,’ explained the college’s chief operating manager, Baptist minister the Rev Helen Stockley…

‘We wanted to create something that captured how they responded in such a monumental way.’

Premier

Baptist Times

CHURCHES SIGN FRIENDSHIP PLEDGE A CENTURY IN MAKING The Church of Scotland and the Catholic Church of Scotland are set to welcome a historic declaration of friendship that has been more than 100 years in the making.

The declaration will be presented to the general assembly of the Church of Scotland on [23 May]. It will seek to recognise the divisions of the past, apologise for the hurt and harm caused, and to make amends…

The declaration states: ‘We recognise each other as brothers and sisters in Christ, and we wish to express our friendship and respect for one another as fellow Christians, citizens and partners in announcing the Kingdom of God in our land.’

The Times

salvationist.org.uk/media/magazine Issue No 1859

CONTACT US 020 7367 4890 (main) / 020 7367 4901 (editor) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

ADVERTISING advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk

MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Simon Hope, George Tanton, Major Margaret Bovey ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight, Louise Phillips PROOFREADER Chris Horne Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by CKN Print, Northampton. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory.

ISSN 2516-5909.

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Salvationist 21 May 2022

CAPTURING FAITH COMMUNITIES’ ‘MONUMENTAL CONTRIBUTIONS’ DURING THE PANDEMIC

DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66–78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 / subscriptions@satcol.org @SalvationistOnline

@SalvationistUK

The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Mal Davies TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN 0845 634 0101

SHARING OUR TESTIMONIES IN his book Words of William Booth, Cyril Barnes includes an incident from the Army’s early days when the Founder addressed a large congregation in Whitechapel.

Barnes writes: ‘Normally his speaking was dynamic; he could hold a crowd spellbound.

But on this particular night the number of godless people was higher than usual; some were quite violent and he was making no impression.’ A Gypsy convert was called to the platform to give his testimony. Barnes continues: ‘As soon as he began to speak silence reigned. He was well known, not as a preacher but for his wayward living. His words were bungling – but they rang true. The attention of the crowd was recaptured.’ After the meeting William Booth said to his son, Bramwell: ‘I shall have to burn all those old sermons of mine and go in for the Gypsy’s.’ Barnes tells this story not to downplay the importance of preaching, but to show that personal testimony can have a powerful impact.

This week’s Salvationist includes words of testimony from three delegates who have spent a few weeks at the International College for Officers. They come from different parts of the world and have had varying experiences, but the common thread is the grace of God that saved them and has shaped them into the people they are today.

Looking back at her conversion, Major Gilda Valencia de Aliaga from Bolivia says: ‘I once thought I was insignificant, but God renewed my thoughts and gave me a new life.’ Captain Luca Longo from Italy reflects on his experiences: ‘I can say that I live with peace and joy, despite the trials, because God is greater than any problem.’ And because of all God has done for her, Major Veronica Chioma Okpalaihedi from Nigeria says: ‘I want to introduce people to this God who transformed my life and made me his instrument.’

Major David Evans reports on the recent Churches Together in England Forum, where reconciliation was the focus, and includes comments from some of the Army delegates. Cadet Chelsea Huddlestone, for example, points to the impact of testimony when she says: ‘The most powerful and challenging part was the final worship session, when people were sharing what the theme meant to them.’

Major Rosemary Dawson continues her series about people she met when working on the War Cry. This time she relates the dramatic testimony of Joe Lampshire, who was delivered from demonic influences. As a championship weightlifter he went on to join a group of Christian ‘strongmen’ who gave powerlifting demonstrations in schools and prisons and testified to the work of God in their lives.

Some Christians say they wish they’d had a dramatic conversion. They feel such an experience would give a stronger assurance of faith and a more compelling witness.

But every experience of God is significant and worth sharing. Many of us grew up in a Christian family or came to faith as a child and may not remember a time before we knew Jesus. Rather than a dramatic encounter in which we ‘saw the light’, it was more like a gradual dawning. But that experience of God is no less real and his grace no less effective – and he continues to work in our lives today. Whatever our experience, we all have a testimony, so let’s be ready and willing to share it.

LIEUT-COLONEL JONATHAN ROBERTS Editor Salvationist

CONTENTS Quotes from the media

2 4 to 7

News Prayer matters

7

News feature 8 Exhibition remembers controversial campaign against sex trafficking

by George Tanton

Preview A new digital chapter starts here

9

by Bethany Gibson

ICO testimonies God’s way with me

10 and 11

News feature 12 and 13 Churches Together look towards reconciling hope

by Major David Evans

Reflection Questions about temptation

14

by Jim Burns

On my bookshelf Making connections, overcoming injustice

15

by Lieutenant Wan Gi Lee

Bible study 16 and 17 Come, I will give you rest

by Major Noreen Batt

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17

by Major Lynda Levis

Stories of transformation 18 Joe Lampshire: Deliverance from evil

by Major Rosemary Dawson

Review On Earth as It Is in Heaven

19

reviewed by Major Alex Cadogan

Read with us 19 Called to Be a Soldier: Chapter 3 New commitments

20

Adverts

21 and 23

Announcements

22 and 23

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

Salvationist 21 May 2022

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NEWS

INTERNATIONAL

MUSIC

International leaders met with warm welcome SWEDEN CHIEF of the Staff Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham and World Secretary for Spiritual Life Development Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham started their visit to the Sweden and Latvia Territory in Gothenburg. They had been told about the capricious weather the month of April can deliver, but the warmth of fellowship – and later the sun – raised the temperature.

The commissioners were first invited to a presentation on the theme of Integrated Mission by representatives from the Western Division. This focused on relationships and building bridges, based on meeting people where they are with such warmth that it mirrors the Kingdom of Heaven and opens up personal relationships with Jesus. Examples were given from completely different target groups, with the outcomes seen in growing fellowships and congregations. Commissioner Bronwyn prayed for each initiative and both leaders received prayers for themselves for the days ahead.

During officers councils at Hisings Corps, Commissioner Lyndon presented a retirement certificate to Commissioner Marie Willermark after her 42 years of active service.

Commissioner Marie gave her testimony and it was a particular blessing to see the Chief recognise and greet the commissioner’s 99-year-old father, Åke Willermark.

In the following public meeting at the same venue and the next day at Stockholm Temple, great congregations gathered from the divisions, excited to feed on the messages from the commissioners. Gothenburg United Music Corps, Hisings Corps Choir, Stockholm Temple Band and Vasa Gospel Choir, along with soloists and a worship team, contributed to creating an atmosphere in which the Holy Spirit could move. Ample time was given at the end of each meeting for worship and prayer, with many people responding to the altar call.

Prior to returning to International Headquarters, the commissioners visited territorial headquarters in Stockholm to meet staff and officers, sharing fika, the Swedish coffee time custom, as well as spending time with the extended leadership team. They were encouraged and inspired by the mission initiatives being undertaken in the territory. – JN 4

Salvationist 21 May 2022

ISS minister and entertain SOUTHEND CITADEL A SENSE of normality returned as a packed hall greeted the International Staff Songsters for their first full weekend engagement since 2020. Although an outbreak of Covid-19 momentarily threatened the weekend, nothing could ultimately take away from the blessings received. The programme ranged from pieces that challenged the most gifted musicians to simple arrangements that led the congregation quickly into the presence of God. Throughout the weekend there was a sense that those gathered had not only been entertained by a gifted choral group but that they had also been ministered to by fellow believers, sensitive to the leadings of God in their preparation and empowered by the Spirit in their delivery.

In the Sunday meeting ISS Executive Officer Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts reminded everyone present that God is constantly aware of their anxieties and, in the context of divine love, encourages them to ‘be not afraid’. The weekend concluded with the corps songsters uniting with the visitors to sing ‘That’s the Spirit of the Lord in Me’, a fitting conclusion to a weekend where the indwelling of God’s Spirit in all who took part was so clear.

The impact of the visit will remain with the faith community for a long time as they continue to come to terms with mission post-lockdown. – AB

EVENT GRIMSBY The corps has returned to its East Marsh home following the opening of its redeveloped worship and community space. The corps has recently been running a limited programme from St Andrew’s Methodist church in Cleethorpes, but has now returned to its original site on Duncombe Street. Lia Nici, MP for Great Grimsby, attended the ribbon cutting for the redeveloped building, which includes community kitchen training rooms and a public coffee lounge with space for people to access the internet. Further redevelopment will be carried out to develop more community space, guided by need in the area. – AR

£2,000

donated to Chatteris Corps SEE PAGE 5

21

years of parent-andtoddler group SEE PAGE 5

200

keyrings to support Army's work in Ukraine SEE PAGE 6

EVENT

COMMUNITY CLOWNE A community bowls evening arranged by Peta Coates and Carol Holland was a great success. People who attend the weekday activities joined corps members to create six teams and take part in a competition set up by Tony Heap. Members of the winning team are pictured with him. – EH

OUTREACH

ENFIELD The corps said farewell to two cadets who had been on a preaching placement for the past six months. Cadet Matthew Stone, along with his wife, Victoria, and their son, Teddy, is looking forward to his first appointment at Southampton Sholing. Cadet Miriam Smith is moving to Glenrothes for her first appointment. The corps presented the cadets with gifts and a message book and shared in a faith lunch to say goodbye. Matthew and Miriam are pictured with corps officer Major Glenn Furlong. – SF

COMMUNITY

SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD A new Snack and Chat group meets every second Monday, providing women with a place to enjoy a light meal, socialise, enjoy crafts and pray together. Major Elaine Arnold and Jean Boardman set up the group in March after witnessing the social impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The group has already attracted eight new members who are mainly friends and neighbours of women who used to attend the home league before the pandemic. – MB

Chatteris Songster Leader Gerald Day receives a donation of £2,000 from Chatteris Court Leet Estate charity towards the corps minibus

FUNDRAISING

EVENT

Boston’s Honeypot parent-and-toddler group celebrates its 21st anniversary

BRIDGWATER The home league members raised money for the Helping Hand appeal by baking fairy cakes, meringues, scones and chocolate cake. They raised more than £50 and kept everyone smiling.

They are pictured wearing the bonnets they made for an Easter bonnet competition. – HC Salvationist 21 May 2022

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NEWS

MUSIC

EVENT

BEDFORD CONGRESS HALL A brass concert took place involving the Free School Band and the YP and senior bands. The groups were conducted respectively by Marion Hext, Nigel Collins and Julian Marshall. Guest soloist Andy Scott (euphonium) played ‘My Grandfather’s Clock’ and ‘A Simple Prayer’. The corps continues to provide free music tuition to pupils in the area, with some of them playing in all three bands. Many parents and friends commented on the great progress that the pupils had made. The corps continues to work to bring the pupils and their families into its Christian family. – GB

FUNDRAISING

MUSIC

AIRDRIE Corps folk gathered with Anum Qaisar, MP for Airdrie and Shotts, and members of Airdrie Council of Churches to celebrate the refurbishment of the hall.

Divisional leaders Majors Ray and Pat Brown led the occasion, assisted by Divisional Mission Enabler Major Dean Logan, and thanked God for his goodness and faithfulness to the corps during the past 137 years and for the ongoing corps mission. CS Davina McMartin, No 1 on the roll, helped Major Brown cut the ribbon before leading the congregation into the hall for the dedication meeting. Debbie Brown contributed a thought-provoking reading and Fiona MacDonald blessed the congregation with two music items. Corps officers Majors James and Morag Sabiston also participated in the meeting. It was followed by a time of fellowship and refreshments, including a cake

by Betty Cunningham. – JS

HASTINGS TEMPLE After being postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Christian singer Jonathan Veira performed a concert at the corps. It was enjoyed by an enthusiastic audience, who listened to Jonathan perform pop songs and tunes from musical theatre and opera as well as hymns.

Jonathan’s faith was evident throughout the performance and his testimony was one of encouragement, as he spoke about his recent kidney transplant. – MS

PRESENTATION

BRIDGWATER In light of the war in Ukraine, the corps was approached by a mum from a local primary school. Her seven-yearold daughter, Isabelle, made 200 keyrings to sell to help the Army’s work in supporting people fleeing Ukraine. The keyrings were sold at the corps, her school and a supermarket, raising £575. She was awarded a certificate of appreciation by corps officer Lieutenant Heather Culshaw. – HC 6

Salvationist 21 May 2022

PRESENTATION Pauline Watts receives a certificate from North Walsham corps officer Major Richard Durrant recognising her 55 years as a songster

SWINDON CITADEL Corps members David and Jan Gingell were recognised at this year’s Pride of Swindon awards for their ‘selfless volunteering with the community and for The Salvation Army’. They have typically been making 20 trips a week to supermarkets to collect items for the food shed located in the hall forecourt. David, a songster and bandsman, has for many years sold the War Cry in the town centre and is appreciated for being a ‘listening friend’ to passers-by. He and Jan are a hard-working team at the corps, carrying out a multitude of tasks. They are pictured receiving their award from Robert Buckland, MP for South Swindon. – KS

BIRTHDAY

FOCUS ON THE LIGHT

by Major Jill Miller (Prayer Network) SUNDAY 22 MAY ‘The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp’ (Revelation 21:23).

Heaven is a place filled with the brightness of the glory of God and the shining presence of Jesus. We give thanks for this wonderful inheritance for all who believe. As we live on Earth, we pray for light to guide us, transform us and empower us.

ASCENSION FOCUS

by Major Simon Clampton (Overseas Services Unit)

ENFIELD The corps celebrated the birthday of its oldest soldier, Gladys Gathergood, who is now 109. Gladys shares her birthday with the Queen and is pictured alongside corps officer Major Glenn Furlong, proudly holding Her Majesty’s greeting card. Gladys enjoyed the day surrounded by cards, flowers and visitors and was surprised that anyone remembered her birthday. She is an inspiration to everyone at the corps. – SF

FUNDRAISING

MONDAY 23 MAY – ISAIAH 40:31 Lord Jesus, before you ascended you told your followers to wait for the Holy Spirit who would come in power. In our lives today, we too need to learn to be still and wait – indeed, to allow your Spirit to minister to us, as ‘they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength’ (Isaiah 40:31 English Standard Version).

TUESDAY 24 MAY – MATTHEW 7:7 Lord, it is no surprise that you ascended from a mount. Throughout history, many people have perceived you close to them on hills and mountains, where there seems to be a closeness between Heaven and Earth, a thin place. In our lives too, help us to seek and to find our thin places with you.

WEDNESDAY 25 MAY – PSALM 24:3 AND 4 Lord, we are told that those with clean hands and a pure heart may ascend your holy hill. Thank you for saving us and keeping us saved through your Spirit. May we be worthy of your name as Christians today, and found faithful when we meet you on your holy hill in Eternity.

THURSDAY 26 MAY (ASCENSION DAY) – JOHN 14:6 Thank you, Jesus, for coming from Heaven to Earth to save us, and to show us that the way to Heaven is through you as ‘the way and the truth and the life’ ( John 14:6). By your Spirit, direct us along life’s path on Earth that will lead us to you in Heaven.

FRIDAY 27 MAY – MATTHEW 28:20 Lord, although we cannot physically see you, you are not ‘out of sight, out of mind’ as your Spirit is with us every day. As Jesus said, ‘And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age’ (Matthew 28:20).

Reassure us today that you are close by and not far away.

Hastings Temple corps officer Major Karen Smith, Bandmaster Nigel Bassett, Ann Bassett and Retired CSM Murray Smith receive a £15,000 donation from supermarket owner Stephen Jempson towards the Army’s work in Ukraine

SATURDAY 28 MAY – MATTHEW 24:36 Lord, we do not know the day or the hour when you will return, but at that time may we be prepared to meet you. Until then, help us to hold firm to the promise that, if we are ready, then we will be with you for ever in your presence in Eternity.

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

NEWS FEATURE

Exhibition remembers controversial campaign CICKPUV UGZ VTCHƂEMKPI BRITISH LIBRARY A NEW exhibition highlights The Salvation Army’s role in exposing the scandal of child prostitution in the 1880s, reports Editorial Assistant George Tanton.

Titled Breaking the News, it features investigative journalist William Thomas Stead, whose campaign against sex trafficking in 1885 landed him in Holloway Prison. At the heart of the exhibition is Stead’s prison uniform, which was donated by the Army’s International Heritage Centre.

Stead’s imprisonment was due to his involvement with Bramwell Booth in ‘procuring’ 13-year-old Eliza Armstrong.

Their stunt aimed to shed light on the scale of the child sex trade, particularly the trafficking of young girls, in late-Victorian London. This case, as well as Stead’s interviews with members of the police and brothel owners, eventually forced the debate to be heard in parliament. As a result, the age of consent was raised from 13 to 16 years of age under the Criminal Law Amendment Act. The unorthodox role of Stead and The Salvation Army in exposing the extent of child prostitution was controversial.

However, Stead had no professional or public setbacks because of his work and was hailed as a campaigner for social justice.

At the time of the Armstrong case, he was editor of The Pall Mall Gazette.

He published his investigations and subsequent report into Eliza’s plight in a series of articles, titled ‘The maiden tribute of modern Babylon’.

‘I believe WH Smith refused to stock the newspaper because of his account,’ said Tamara Tubb, the Breaking the News exhibition curator. ‘However, it had the converse effect. It made public interest in the story even greater. The print run of The Pall Mall Gazette went up dramatically and people followed his subsequent court case avidly. In fact, there was a huge groundswell of public support for him.

I believe The Salvation Army organised 8

Salvationist 21 May 2022

Journalist William Thomas Stead

Stead's prison uniform

Stead was hailed as a campaigner for social justice marches as well and they got a huge turnout for Stead’s campaign.

‘In my research here at the library, I spent a lot of time in the manuscripts room reading letters to and from Stead. There are copies of letters sent by the Pankhursts, the soon-to-be suffragettes, in support of his investigation.’

As an avid social reformer, Stead reported persistently on child welfare and reformation of the prison system in England. He spoke out against many of the government’s foreign and colonial policies, including the South African War of 1899 to 1902.

Stead’s prison uniform takes centre stage in the exhibition’s discussion on the ethical questions posed by investigative journalism.

The exhibition examines how news has

been digested in Britain throughout 500 years of conflict and revolution, public outcry and scandal.

Stephen Lester, curator of newspaper collections at the British Library, explained that the exhibition provides ‘a range of different themes in the news, which connect historical and contemporary material together’. It tackles questions such as what it means to have a free press, what the ethical concerns are around producing the news and what is meant by objectivity.

‘The uniform is such a great visual representation of the consequences, or one side of the consequences, of Stead’s work,’ said Tamara.

O Breaking the News is at the British Library until 21 August

PREVIEW

A new digital chapter starts here Bethany Gibson introduces the newly launched territorial website

T

HE new territorial website salvationist.org.uk is live and ready for action. It offers a whole new way for Salvationists and others to engage with Christianity and The Salvation Army.

It will be the go-to digital space for people linked to our Movement and anyone who wants to explore faith and belonging – it’s for members, attenders, volunteers, employees, supporters, friends from other churches and people who are curious to learn more about The Salvation Army or about God. Until now we have had two territorial websites: salvationarmy.org.uk, which is primarily aimed at external audiences, and OurHub, a private digital space for operational matters that can only be accessed by people with login details, such as officers and employees. What’s missing has been a dedicated online space for all Salvationists. That’s where salvationist.org.uk comes in.

It is home to internal Army news, stories, devotional materials, resources, events and learning opportunities, plus key information about how people can get involved in mission.

People are creating resources, planning events and telling stories across the territory, and one of our aims is to make this content easier to discover and more broadly accessible.

As we’ve been planning content, we’ve been excited about the potential of this website. The launch is the beginning of a new digital chapter and the website will continue to grow and develop.

It is guided by a steering group, which advises on content and direction, and a feedback group, which reports on the user experience and ensures the site is working and helpful. Both groups are diverse in membership and include soldiers, adherents, staff and officers from all across the UKI Territory.

Because the website sits within the remit of the Communications Service, a Territorial Communications Board will also monitor and give oversight.

We want to continually listen to each other and the prompting of the Spirit to see how this new resource can help build God’s Kingdom. This means that, when you visit the website, we want you to be ready to share your feedback – to tell us what you want to see more of, and to let us know how your experience could be improved and how we could make the website more engaging, accessible and inclusive.

In related news, in late 2021 The Salvation Army was approached by the leaders of Fortress Radio with an offer to take over management of the online radio station. After due consideration, this offer was accepted and we’re

working through a transition plan that will see the station continue with some rebranding, new programming and a new home: salvationist.org.uk.

We’re also pleased to announce that we’ve recruited an audio content editor who will take the lead on the radio station and oversee audio content for the website. Fortress Radio has developed a strong foundation on which we can build – audio is one of the areas that has huge potential for supporting our mission.

Links between the website, radio station and weekly papers will be strong, but each format will allow room for unique content and innovation. So now Salvationists can read and hear the latest territorial information across multiple media formats and access a broad range of resources.

Please remember salvationist.org.uk in your prayers. Pray that the website will be a space where people can encounter the inclusive, radical and transforming good news of Jesus. l Tell us what you think of the new website by emailing salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk

BETHANY GIBSON Online Content Editor THQ

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ICO TESTIMONIES

God’s way with me Three delegates from the 249th session at the International College for Officers and Centre for Spiritual Life Development share their testimonies MAJOR GILDA VALENCIA DE ALIAGA Executive Director, Harry Williams Hospital, Bolivia South America West Territory I WAS born in 1980 in La Paz, Bolivia, in the heart of a very poor family. I came to a Salvation Army day care centre at the age of five and spent my childhood and part of my youth there. I received food, support with school supplies and, most importantly, I met the Lord.

My mum always worked hard; we went through times of great need. I remember on several occasions we used to go to sleep without eating, in the hope that the next day we would have a rich breakfast at The Salvation Army.

Out of necessity my younger brothers

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Salvationist 21 May 2022

and I began, as children, to work to help support our home.

Remembering this situation gives me a lot of sadness, but I am sure that God protected my life and my family.

I attended church on Sundays, but I really received the Lord in my heart at 15 years of age when he spoke to me through Isaiah 41:9 and 10. He told me that he had chosen me, that I was not alone and that he would help and sustain me.

Until that moment I had thought that I would not have opportunities in life.

I was a poor girl, rejected by my biological father and I felt insignificant.

But God did not think the same. He made me valuable.

At the age of 16, during a young people’s activity, I met a special person whom God had prepared for me: Freddy Aliaga. On finishing high school in December 1998 we got married and God has blessed us with four wonderful children. In our first year of marriage we received the Lord’s call to serve him as officers. We have served for 21 years and in each appointment God has been faithful to us and we to him.

Participating in the ICO has been a privilege, a blessing and a gift. The Lord has renewed and strengthened my life. I know that, when I return home, everything I have learnt will help me to strengthen my ties with my God, family and ministry. I thank God for everything he has done and will do in me.

I once thought I was insignificant, but God renewed my thoughts and gave me a new life. If at any time you feel that way, he can do the same for you. You just have to trust him and put your life in his hands.

CAPTAIN LUCA LONGO Assistant HR Officer and Spiritual Life Development Co-ordinator Italy and Greece Command THE gospel was in my home when I was a child because I am the son of officers. I started going to church from a very young age. Although I didn’t know what it meant to accept Jesus into my life, a desire for him was burning in my heart. Sometimes I went to church, but not of my own free will – my parents forced me to go with them and my mind was distracted by other things.

Years went by and I felt sure that I was in God’s plan. But then there was a time when I left the church and God. I started hanging out with friends who were not good for me. However, my parents never gave up praying for me, because they were certain that one day I would realise the need to surrender my life to God and give my heart to Jesus.

In 2001 I won an Erasmus scholarship to go and study at a university in the north of Spain. Once there, I felt I had to look for a Protestant church because there was no Salvation Army corps where I was. I did not realise at the time that God was preparing the way for me to realise that my heart needed a real transformation. No one knows God’s timing, but I knew that God had already prepared something wonderful for me.

In this church I met youth pastors Monchu and Merced, who realised that I always had one foot in and one foot out. They organised a weekend for young people and invited me. I didn’t

I can say that I live with peace and joy, despite the trials, because God is greater than any problem

want to go, but they insisted that I did.

When I got there, Monchu preached and talked about Jesus and his wonderful work for us. His words reached my heart so directly and encouraged me so much.

It was at that very moment that God decided to turn my life around, because I then understood that he had used that pastor to bring me to him.

Now I can live my life with Jesus in my heart because I have understood God’s infinite love. I can say that I live with peace and joy, despite the trials, because God is greater than any problem. My wife, Francesca, and I are serving as officers and God is blessing us so much. It is a beautiful thing to be able to serve God for ever. To God be the glory!

MAJOR VERONICA CHIOMA OKPALAIHEDI Divisional Director for Women’s Ministries, Anambra West Nigeria Territory ON 5 August 1992, as a young girl, I was weeding my aunt’s garden. Suddenly I heard a voice: ‘Do you know I can weed and beautify your life, just like you are weeding and beautifying this garden?’

I turned to see who was speaking, but I found no one. The voice said: ‘Allow me to weed your life.’ I asked: ‘Who are you? What have I done?’ Then I said reluctantly: ‘Come and do whatever you want to do.’ I felt a strange atmosphere and found myself kneeling in the garden and pleading in tears for God’s mercy.

I heard God saying: ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart’ (Jeremiah 1:5). I knew I was having an encounter with God, so I surrendered my life to him. The joy of the Lord became my strength and ever since that time I have been walking with him. Even though sometimes I fail, he is always there to pick me up. God is amazing.

A few years later I had the call of God upon my life. I came from a poor, humble background and didn’t know that God could call people like me for mission. During an Easter retreat in 1995, an altar call was made for those God was calling for full-time ministry in The Salvation Army. The urge was strong in me, but I refused to give in and asked God to change this plan for me.

Then someone from the congregation

said: ‘Be obedient to the voice of God.’ They led me to the mercy seat, where I surrendered to the will of God. I then realised why Jeremiah 1:5 was given to me on the day of my conversion.

I got married in April 1996 and my husband and I entered the training college in 1997. After our commissioning we were sent to a corps where we received this greeting: ‘So many captains and majors have resigned and some have died, what can lieutenants like you do?’ Well, this amazing God used us to break boundaries. Muslim families were converted and lives were transformed by God. We neither resigned nor died!

We have served as officers for 24 years and several times he has delivered me from the dungeon of death. I want to introduce people to this God who transformed my life and made me his instrument. He can do amazing things in your life as well!

WHAT IS THE ICO? Located at Sunbury Court, the ICO exists to further officers’ personal and leadership development. It provides an environment for them to flourish spiritually through teaching, prayer, worship and fellowship.

Salvationist 21 May 2022

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NEWS FEATURE

Churches Together look towards reconciling hope THE HAYES CONFERENCE CENTRE, SWANWICK THE Salvation Army joined representatives of the 52 denominations that make up the Church family in England at the Churches Together in England Forum, writes Territorial Ecumenical Officer Major David Evans.

The largest ecumenical conference in England was attended by archbishops, church leaders, lay Christians and umbrella groups under the theme Reconciling Hope: A Broken Church for a Broken World.

Cadet Chelsea Huddlestone said the theme was relevant to her as a member of the Messengers of Reconciliation session: ‘The most powerful and challenging part was the final worship session, when people were sharing what the theme meant to them.

God was challenging me about what it means to be a Messenger of Reconciliation and how this is going to be the basis of my ministry.’

During this session the outgoing moderator of the Free Churches Group and one of the six CTE presidents, the Rev Dr Hugh Osgood, used the story of the feeding of the 5,000 as an example of how the 52 different denominations and organisations can work together.

He said: ‘Jesus didn’t take crumbs and form a loaf of bread, he took a loaf of bread, blessed it and split it into crumbs to feed the

The territorial commander with Salvationist delegates

multitude.’ As God’s Church, we have been blessed and broken into different denominations so that we can go and feed others in the ways they need to be fed.

Hugh continued: ‘If we think in this way, we can accept our differences and understand that we are all part of the body of Christ and use our strengths to share the Kingdom of God.’ Delegates heard time and time again that, as churches with different theologies, they needed to be able to disagree well and celebrate differences, but still be able to develop strong relationships and partnerships, serving their different communities.

Chelsea, alongside Lieutenant Luke Lizzy Kitchenside (Addlestone), third from left, joins in a tree planting ceremony

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Salvationist 21 May 2022

Cozens (Wallsend) and Pioneer Leader Bethany Munn (Faversham), identified reconciliation with the Earth as a major challenge for The Salvation Army. Chelsea referred to one of the Army’s mission priorities to ‘care for creation’ adding: ‘We need to be willing to make a change now and show others that this is possible to do.’

Bethany, Chelsea, Luke and Major Paul Robinson (Norwich Mile Cross) saw that one particular challenge the Army faces is just how welcoming it really is. Chelsea asked whether people had lost sight of the vision of a church for the whosoever. How can diversity be represented within the leadership of The Salvation Army and show others that this is a welcoming and caring church for all people of every age, race, sexuality and gender?

Paul admitted that he struggled with some aspects, but that the networking at the forum helped enormously. Speaking to one of the bishops, he said: ‘My view has completely changed and I have been challenged to stand up against all abuse as it affects people.’

Those gathered were challenged to focus on Jesus as central in their conversations and not to be shy in doing so. Paul said he wants that self-same fire to be increasingly seen in the Army.

Representing the Association of Christian Counsellors, Gill Stuart (Stapleford) found it a joy to meet with other members of The Salvation Army.

‘It was a time when God did a work of deep reconciliation within my own heart,’ she said. ‘I kept thinking of the phrase “let it

I was refreshed, challenged and encouraged by the worship, speakers and workshops but also by the fellowship begin with me”. I know that I cannot by myself bring reconciliation to the Church, to the people of the world, to the Earth itself, but I must play my part.

‘Reconciliation is not about pleasantries and sharing a cup of tea together; it is a hard, often painful task that involves openly and respectfully discussing our differences and being willing to be challenged by and learn from those whom we consider “other”.’

Professor Anthony Reddie talked of reconciling communities and powerfully spoke of how Christians identify with Jesus on the cross when, in actuality, there are times when they are much more like Pontius Pilate. Chelsea, Bethany and Luke expressed how they were encouraged by the ‘grown-up’ way the forum discussed topics such as LGBTQ+ and Black Lives Matter.

Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill shared: ‘The CTE Forum was a blessed mosaic of expressions of the Kingdom of God. I was refreshed, challenged and encouraged by the worship, speakers and workshops but also by the fellowship shared with Christians from so many different traditions.

‘The hope for the future, the warmth and the loving interactions between delegates has never been better. We are part of the body of Christ, called to be together in our diversity, to be one despite differences to fulfil Christ’s high priestly prayer as we together serve our communities.’

Salvationist youth delegates Leeroy Gotami, Cadet Chelsea Huddlestone and Lizzy Kitchenside (both top), Amy Bayliss-Fox, Bethany Munn and Lieutenant Luke Cozens

CONNECTED IN CHRIST THE CTE Forum challenged the way I think about disagreements between denominations, writes youth delegate Amy Bayliss-Fox (Addlestone). I always feared that our differences could only harm our relationship with Christ but, actually, they empower us to explore what we understand about our living faith.

In the Archbishop of Canterbury’s talk on Monday evening, he spoke about disagreeing well. We can have our differences as long as we understand and respect that they are personal and not an attack on our beliefs.

I believe the three days challenged us as a wider group of believers to consider ourselves as a singular Church rather than a gathering of churches. We are all part of the singular body of Christ. We are reminded in 1 Corinthians 12:12–14: ‘Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptised by one Spirit so as to form one body – whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free – and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. And so the body is not made up of one part but of many.’

Therefore, even though each denomination, each believer, has differences in what they believe, how they worship and how they serve, we are still connected through the redeeming love of Christ. I believe this is what the three days challenged and empowered the Church to recognise.

At the conference was a contingent of young Salvationists, which was encouraging to see. I believe the challenge for The Salvation Army came from the Archbishop’s talk on Monday, but also spanned the entirety of the forum: true reconciliation cannot come from the outside; it has to come from within. The challenge for the Army and Salvationists is to consider whether are we are doing all that we can to reach true reconciliation with our God, the world and each other.

I truly feel blessed to have shared with fellow sisters and brothers in Christ at CTE Forum 2022 and I pray that real change shall come from this time spent together.

Salvationist 21 May 2022

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REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI EC TION TI ON REFLECTION O

Questions about temptation Jim Burns considers the temptation of Adam and our actions today

W

HO is your least favourite person in the Bible? For me it’s ‘No 1 on the roll’, Adam.

But for his disobedience, we could all be walking and talking face to face with God every day and living a life of ease.

Adam had to cultivate the garden of Eden, but the task doesn’t sound all that hard, especially when the stream that flowed there watered it (see Genesis 2:10). Plus it was always sunny, for God hadn’t sent any rain yet (see Genesis 2:5). But then Adam went and spoilt it for us all by eating the fruit of the tree that gave knowledge of what is good and bad.

However, was he really to blame?

Adam certainly didn’t think so, for when God challenged him about eating the fruit, he answered: ‘The woman you put here with me gave me the fruit, and I ate it’ (Genesis 3:12 Good News Bible).

Classic – nothing to do with me, mate!

Did Adam know where the fruit that Eve offered him had come from? We’ll never know, but she did lead him astray. How often are we influenced by someone to do what we know to be wrong?

Eve hadn’t been created when God

told Adam he may eat of any tree in the garden except that one. But we can assume that Adam passed on that instruction, for when the snake spoke to Eve, she confirmed that she knew.

I wonder how long it was after the snake spoke to her that Eve went to find the tree. It’s possible that, the first time, she simply looked at it. Perhaps she touched the bark the next time and finally pulled off one of the fruits. Isn’t temptation like that? It starts with an idea that gradually grows until we rationalise that it won’t do us any harm.

And who could pick fault with her desire to ‘become wise’ (Genesis 3:6 GNB)?

Surely that’s not a bad thing – except it was, because she was disobeying God’s instruction.

How strange that the first thing they discovered with all their new-found knowledge was that they were naked.

Was that all their disobedience got them? Isn’t it often the case that the forbidden fruit isn’t as satisfying or rewarding as we thought it would be?

When Adam blamed Eve, I wonder if he was also implying that it was God’s fault for creating Eve. Eve blamed the

snake: ‘The snake tricked me into eating it’ (Genesis 3:13). But the snake didn’t force her to eat the fruit; rather, she wanted to become wise. Talk about a blame culture!

Why did God put the tree in the garden if he didn’t want them to eat its fruit? Was it a test? If so, what was the point, especially if God knew that they would fail and wreck their special relationship?

If we’re honest there are times when we give in to temptation and look to blame others. More to the point there are even times when we blame God for putting temptation in our path. Whether you genuinely believe that or take the view that God allows us to be tempted, we alone are responsible for our actions, no matter how we try and justify them.

Perhaps not much has changed in human nature in the millennia since Adam was on Earth – given the choice between disobeying God and accepting eternal life, how often do we make the wrong decision?

God decided Adam ‘must not be allowed to take fruit from the tree of life … and live for ever’ (Genesis 3:22 GNB) and so God sent him out of the garden.

Praise be to God that this wasn’t the end of humankind’s fellowship with him.

Just as sin entered the world because of Adam’s disobedience, salvation came from Jesus, who is described by Paul as the ‘second Adam’ (1 Corinthians 15:47 GNB). Paul also explains: ‘For just as all people die because of their union with Adam, in the same way all will be raised to life because of their union with Christ’ (1 Corinthians 15:22 GNB).

If that wasn’t enough cause for celebration and thanksgiving, we who believe in Jesus as our Saviour finally will ‘have the right to eat the fruit from the tree of life’ in the new Jerusalem (Revelation 22:14 GNB).

JIM BURNS Dunstable

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Salvationist 21 May 2022

ON MY BOOKSHELF

Making connections, overcoming injustice In this occasional series people tell Salvationist about the significance of some of the books on their bookshelf – this week, Lieutenant Wan Gi Lee (St Albans)

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION DURING the Covid-19 pandemic we have all witnessed the vulnerabilities of human beings and of economic and social systems. The way forward needs to be redefined, but how? As we are drawn into this big question, the need for spiritual direction – individually and collectively – is paramount.

In this book, Henri Nouwen guides us to seek divine solitude and the discipline of community – to listen to God and discover how God works in others.

Spiritual direction thus comes through the spiritual disciplines of time with God and time with others.

The challenge in the context of the pandemic is the urgent need for the spiritual discipline of community. Within this community, God’s forgiveness, celebration and connectedness should be practised through ongoing personal devotion, prayer and Bible reading.

‘The spiritual life can never be separated from a life together,’ says Nouwen. ‘True prayer, even the most intimate prayer, always leads to new connections with others. More than sermons, lectures or individual reading, being together in a common search for God can deepen and broaden our life in the Spirit.’

I believe this book sheds a light on our need for spiritual direction amid our pandemic realities, with their many layers of inequalities, divisions, griefs and loneliness.

THE PRISONER: A MEMOIR I CLEARLY remember the shock on 20 March 1989. South Korea had a tough law against interaction with North Korea. No one dared imagine crossing the border as a civilian. On that day, however, respected Korean novelist Hwang Sok-Yong did.

His visit to North Korea heralded a new era, the breaking down of the old regime and its thought processes and taboos. As a result, he was exiled in the US and Germany. On his return to South Korea in 1993 he was arrested and put in prison for five years.

This book is an account of Hwang’s experiences. He writes about the radical yet compassionate socio-political dialogues in which he engaged. ‘Where there is opposition and persecution over the unknown, the writer needs to go against it in order to witness and report the unknown.

It is an act of freedom… My exile breaks down the boundaries and leads me to live as a world citizen beyond them.’

Korean influence is everywhere today, from cars to food. I believe the blossoming of our culture wouldn’t have been possible without such brave freedom fighters. This book and the author’s other works will give readers an in-depth understanding of Korea and its internal and geopolitical dynamics.

I hope it also gives Christians a divine aspiration to traverse small boundaries of social injustice, as did Jesus, to witness God’s freedom.

THE TESTAMENTS IN this dystopian novel, a sequel to The Handmaid’s Tale, Margaret Atwood raises questions about the function of belief. For those who defend their power and hierarchy, a belief system is inevitable because it hides things with effective brainwashing.

The fictional Republic of Gilead is a place where such a belief system is in operation, with male domination based on extreme misogyny. Women are pushed out to the margin only to be used as a reproductive medium. What is even more dangerous is that God and the Bible are interpreted selectively in support of the system.

Doesn’t this tell us something about the way populist politicians quote Bible verses, seeking the backing of God for their own privilege, while vulnerable people become victims of the powerful? Are not false testaments being made to defend such a system?

‘Bearing false witness was not the exception, it was common,’ Atwood writes. ‘Beneath its outer show of virtue and purity, Gilead was rotting.’

We see big and small Gileads around us. This book made me reflect on how much our belief in Christ reveals God’s truth of salvation for all.

Salvationist 21 May 2022

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BIBLE STUDY

Come, I will give Major Noreen Batt reminds us that Jesus offers us a way to work, rest and play in his Kingdom

MATTHEW 11:1–6 AND 20–30

A

N advert for a certain chocolate bar declared that eating one of them a day would help us ‘work, rest and play’. This simple slogan is embedded in my childhood memory and so the power of advertising lives on! Yet, if we ponder that phrase in the context of these verses in Matthew’s Gospel, we sense the rhythms of life and grace that Jesus offers us – to work, rest and play in his Kingdom.

QUESTION are the rhythms of work, rest and play in your life?

O What

Jesus leaves us under no illusion that the bringing in of God’s Kingdom involves hard work and action. When

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

by Major Lynda Levis

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Salvationist 21 May 2022

John sends a delegation of his disciples to question whether Jesus actually is the Messiah, Jesus points them to the visible evidence of the invisible work of God – the blind can see, the lame can walk, the leper is cleansed, the deaf can hear, the dead are raised to life and the good news is proclaimed. That all takes work, time and involvement in other people’s lives. It takes exertion of energy and passion to bring fullness of life to others.

Jesus had unbounded energy for life and love. He didn’t appear to spend his life outwardly resting – and yet perhaps there is rest at the very heart of him, because he knew why he was doing what he was doing: ‘My food … is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work’ (John 4:34). Perhaps his energy for life came from that deep place of rest that TS Eliot described as ‘the still point of the turning world’.

QUESTIONS O Why do you do all the work you do?

O Why does your corps or centre do all its work?

Jesus knew that his work and his ministry would cause hardship for many as they refused to change their ways when the Kingdom of God was revealed among them. It was painful for him to know that his miracle-making work would be rejected; it would be more painful for the communities who turned their back on God than it had been for the people of Sodom in the days of Abraham. This is a hard-hitting truth – that the work of the Kingdom can be as painful and life-challenging as it is glorious and transformative.

I wonder if, in the words of Ignatius of Loyola, we are prepared to ‘give and not to count the cost, to fight and not to

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Share my yoke and find that I am joined with you,/ Your slightest movement I shall feel and be there too!/ Share my yoke and come the way that I must go!/ In our ‘togetherness’ my peace you’ll know;/ The world beholding us will see it so!

(SASB 527)

Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’

(Mark 6:31)

’Mid all the traffic of the ways,/ Turmoils without, within,/ Make in my heart a quiet place/ And come and dwell therein.

(SASB 777)

you rest heed the wounds’ – or whether we long for the easier, pain-free way of not challenging the status quo and of not declaring God’s Kingdom but simply going with the flow.

QUESTION we resting more than we like to admit when it comes to the things of the Kingdom of God? O Are

While we scratch our heads and wring our hands trying to understand these Kingdom matters and what Jesus is saying, we can imagine him with a twinkle in his eye as he talks with his Father, who has already revealed Kingdom truths to little children. There is a playful side to their relationship that is disarming (see vv25–27).

Such playfulness, which is inherent to children who are allowed to play, is

perhaps another source of real rest at the heart of the mysteries about God and his Kingdom. We don’t understand it all; our human wisdom and knowledge will not bring us into the depths of who God is. But childlike trust and an openness to see and hear things in an unfettered way – and enjoy God’s company in a playful way – may create that well of rest that can be a source of great energy for our lives.

He does not promise to take away our burdens but to help us learn a new way of bearing them, from a place of rest and trust; he doesn’t promise to change our circumstances but to change us as we learn gentleness and humility. Jesus does not offer rest as a commodity but as a relationship: go with him and he will give you rest.

What does the rest that Jesus offers look like for you?

QUESTION O How does playfulness in your life create a place of rest in God? And then we hear Jesus say the words we quote so often to ourselves and to others: ‘Come to me … and I will give you rest’ (v28). The wonderful thing about Jesus is that he never promises the kind of life he does not live himself.

MAJOR NOREEN BATT Divisional Leader for Leader Development Wales

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.

(Psalm 23:2 and 3)

Drop thy still dews of quietness/ Till all our strivings cease;/ Take from our souls the strain and stress,/ And let our ordered lives confess/ The beauty of thy peace.

(SASB 456)

The Lord replied, ‘My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.’

(Exodus 33:14)

To rest in your presence,/ Not rushing away;/ To cherish each moment,/ Here I would stay./ This is my desire, O Lord,/ This is my desire.

(SASB 345)

Prayer Lord, it is sometimes difficult for us to feel at ease about resting. There are so many tasks to fulfil that can overtake and overwhelm us.

Help us to hear your voice and remember that you know what is best for us.

Salvationist 21 May 2022

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FEATURE I Stories of transformation

Joe Lampshire Deliverance from evil

Major Rosemary Dawson continues a series in which she remembers some of the inspirational people she met while working on the War Cry

E

XPERIMENTING with the occult and paranormal can lead to some frightening and dangerous experiences, as Joe Lampshire – a Lloyd’s of London broker – discovered.

The ensuing battle between good and evil finally ended when Joe surrendered his soul to the power of God. Joe began working in the City of London aged 16. ‘I loved the lifestyle,’ he said. ‘Choosing how much to party depended on how far your money and expense account would go.

‘My grandmother was very interested in spiritualism and I became fascinated by ghosts, poltergeists and films such as The Exorcist and Nightmare on Elm Street. At 18 I started taking marijuana and experimenting with a Ouija board.

I got hooked when spirits told me things about my grandfather that were later confirmed as true.

‘One night something weird happened.

The board started spinning round violently, spelling out the words, “Sinned!

Doomed! Die!” very fast. I was really scared. I remembered the Lord’s Prayer, and repeated it all the way home.

‘I took our old family Bible upstairs and lay with it on my chest, like a kind of talisman, for a whole week.’

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Salvationist 21 May 2022

Joe decided not to use the Ouija board again.

‘My mum and stepfather had started going to church and invited me along, but I declined,’ he explained. ‘Then I heard a voice say: “Joe, get up and go.” I looked round, but there was no one there. Then I heard it again, very clearly: “Joe, get up and go.” So, to my mum’s surprise, I did.

‘The atmosphere at our local church was warm and loving. It was as if someone had turned a tap on in my head. God was really speaking to me.’

Joe realised he had to make a choice between his lifestyle and his conscience.

He stopped drinking to excess and taking drugs.

‘I was being changed inwardly, and fought God every step of the way,’ Joe recalled. ‘The demonic influences I’d let into my life were causing a real battle between good and evil.

‘One night I couldn’t sleep, so went downstairs to watch television and dozed off. Suddenly I became aware of an evil feeling in the room and heard a loud, high-pitched laugh. Something pulled me to the floor. I froze; I couldn’t move or speak, so kept saying “Jesus! Jesus!” in my head, over and over again. The grip on my arm loosened. I grabbed my Bible

and started reading it. I felt under attack and was really scared.

‘I woke my stepfather, who went downstairs and said in a loud voice: “You’re not welcome – leave this house!”

The room slowly returned to normal. He had exorcised the demon.

‘Two Christian friends came to pray with me. They explained that using the Ouija board had opened me up to the bad influences that were now fighting God for my soul. That night I had my first good sleep for ages.’

Joe finally won his battle against evil at a Spring Harvest event.

‘As I went forward and asked Jesus into my life something flung me on my back, and I started screaming,’ he said. ‘People came to pray with me, and I heard one say: “In the name of Jesus, I command the unclean spirit to come out of this man.” There was a loud roar – and then a feeling of peace.’

Joe believed he had been delivered from demonic oppression and had some plain advice for people experimenting with the occult: ‘Steer clear of it! You’re opening yourself up to attack. It’s not harmless fun; it’s very dangerous. It may feel exciting, but there’s always a price to pay.’

In his late teens Joe developed an aptitude for weightlifting, winning a silver medal in the 2005 Commonwealth Championship, the 2006 British powerlifting championship (100 kg) and breaking the British total weight and squat records.

‘I wanted to use my sport to glorify God in some way,’ he explained, ‘and now belong to a Christian group of strongmen giving powerlifting demonstrations in schools and prisons.

‘Now I have peace, joy, faith and a relationship with the King of kings. I believe he is there for me every moment of every day.’

O Based

on an article published in the War Cry, 8 March 2008

MAJOR ROSEMARY DAWSON MA Retired St Austell

READ WITH US

REVIEW

A great little book!

Called to Be a Soldier

Major Alex Cadogan (Chaplain, Lancaster Farms and HMP Kirkham) reviews On Earth as It Is in Heaven by Martyn Sanders

CHAPTER THREE International Headquarters invites s us to share in a worldwide reading ga and nd reflection plan, focusing on one e chap chapter of Called to Be a Soldier each week

S T

HIS devotional reflection is great because it is a survey of the two ‘great’ commandments at the heart of Jesus’ teaching – to love God and to love our neighbour. It is also little, being no more than 112 pages long. But what it lacks in length is more than made up for in depth.

We enter the first half of the devotional via the parable of the good Samaritan, where the reader is asked to consider what love is and how God wants us to love. The latter half of the book then gets us thinking about what it means to love others. Practical matters such as social justice, climate change, poverty, modern slavery and the inequalities within the UK criminal justice system are covered, but the author manages to stay rooted in the spiritual nature of the subject matter.

Interpreting the essential truth that ‘love of God and others … go hand-in-hand’ in today’s world is challenging, but the reader is never abandoned. Each section concludes with a prayer that is always deeply and spiritually satisfying.

In the preface to his Spiritual Exercises, the founder of the Jesuit Order, Ignatius of Loyola, wrote: ‘It is not the abundance of knowledge that fills and satisfies the soul, but rather the inward sense and taste of things.’ I believe this is what this great little book achieves and delivers: an inward sense of what our Saviour is constantly calling his people to – love of God and their neighbour. If you’re casting around for devotional reading or for small group study materials, I thoroughly recommend this.

ALVATION can only come about through the work of the Holy Spirit. But the work of the Spirit doesn’t end there.

As disciples of Jesus, we should allow the Spirit to direct every aspect of our life – our attitudes, motivation, behaviour, thinking, speech and interactions with other people. For our faith to mature and develop, we need to be continually obedient and responsive to the Spirit, recognise our need for growth and be prepared to change as he works in our lives.

Spiritual disciplines help us do just that, allowing God’s Spirit to transform us into people of love. Worship, prayer, service, reading the Bible – all spiritual practices are beautiful and helpful in their own way.

They are also a means to an end. They do not earn us salvation or make God love us more. Spiritual practices are a way of knowing who God is and of aligning our lives towards him.

Being responsive and obedient to the Holy Spirit is not always easy. Our relationship with God will grow, change and develop throughout life.

From the beginning of creation, the pattern of obedience, failure and restoration repeats. People fail to obey and attempt to determine their own destiny. Every time, God provides a way to restore the broken relationships.

Far from being an unreasonable demand for control or a demonstration of power, the desire for obedience is a sign of God’s love for us. He is, and always has been, deeply invested in our flourishing.

As we keep learning and growing in our relationship with God, let us be a listening people who are alert and ready to respond as the Spirit leads.

O For

Earth as It Is in Heaven is available from sps-shop.com priced £8.99 (plus postage and packing)

O On

more details find The Salvation Army International Spiritual Life Development on Instagram and Facebook @SalvArmySpiritualLife Salvationist 21 May 2022

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NEW COMMITMENTS

ENFIELD A hall full of family and friends supported Imogen as she was enrolled as a junior soldier. Themed Called to Follow, the meeting encouraged Imogen and all those gathered to think about being a true follower of Jesus. The congregation creatively engaged in worship with a ‘happy family’ prayer time and excellent dance moves to the song ‘Follow the Leader’. This culminated in the iconic Sister Act number ‘I Will Follow Him’. Imogen is pictured with corps officers Majors Glenn and Sharen Furlong and Recruiting Sergeant Alyson Hicks, who led Imogen through her junior soldier classes. – SF BOLTON CITADEL Family and friends gathered to support Owen Knott as he was enrolled as a soldier.

Owen’s grandfather, Major Melvyn Knott, led the enrolment and charged him with Ephesians 6:11: ‘Take everything the Master has set out for you’ (The Message). Owen shared how God called him to be a soldier on Covenant Sunday. He reminded the congregation that the service and sacrifice of soldiership still has relevance in today’s world. In her message, corps officer Major Sue Betts challenged those present to follow Owen’s example and offer their whole lives to God. – DJ

WREXHAM Debbie Jones, Helen Williams and Nicola Peet were welcomed as adherents. Debbie and Helen are new Christians who testify to God’s transforming power in their lives. Nicola has been attending the corps for a few years and had a wonderful experience at Enabled summer school two years ago. She says that she stands as ‘a new creation, no more in condemnation’. They are pictured with corps officers Majors Ian and Sandy Davis and Recruiting Sergeant Cass Jones. – SD

SHOEBURYNESS Ivor Kirkwood was welcomed as an adherent by corps officers Captains Clare and Rob Davis. Ivor was supported by his partner, Gill, and thanked the corps for the warm welcome they had received since attending. – RD/CD

CHELMSFORD Frances Robertson was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Major Tracey Mountford. Having attended Sunday worship and the home league for the past few years, Frances testified to God being her strength and of knowing that God has been and continues to be with her, helping her in every circumstance. Corps officer Major Ian Mountford enrolled Owen Waples as a soldier, who testified to his strong faith and trust in God. Owen continues to serve as part of the media desk team. He is pictured with Membership Secretary Ralf Cook, Majors Tracey and Ian and Corps Secretary Trevor Fisher. – TM

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Salvationist 21 May 2022

ADVERTS RUSHDEN Church Street NN10 9YT Sunday 22 May 10.30am

RETIREMENT CELEBRATION for Major Richard Crowe

Led by DC Colonel Sylvia Hinton Please send greetings and messages to Gillian Crowe gill.crowe10@gmail.com

LISTINGS AN ARMY SUPPRESSED In May 1940 German forces invaded the Channel Islands. This is an account of the banned Salvation Army during evacuation, occupation and finally liberation. £11.50 including p&p. Details: michael.thierry@ icloud.com. Tel: 01425 479095.

WANTED Former Salvation Army-type folding harmonium/ pedal organ in full working order. Can collect in South East and can pay up to £100. Tel Jane: 07764 515583.

TO LET MAJORCA Beautiful, well-equipped apartment. Two double bedrooms (sleeps two to six). Walk-in shower, second toilet.

Large balcony, lovely view, quiet area. Competitive prices.

Email carol@ckendall.co.uk or tel 01274 678889 / 07308506064.

NORTH WALSHAM

EXETER TEMPLE

Hall Lane NR28 9DT

Friars Walk

Sunday 10 July 10.30am and 4pm

Sunday 12 June 3.30pm

RETIREMENT MEETINGS

TEMPLE PRAISE

for Major Richard Durrant

Exeter Temple Band and Songsters

Led by Captain Carl and Territorial Envoy Heather Whitewood

Followed by refreshments (10.30am meeting led by Howard and Heather Evans)

Please send any memories/greetings to carl.whitewood@salvationarmy.org.uk

Park at ‘Cathedral and Quay’ EX1 1DE Exit at the top and turn right

BM Howard Evans – Piano

London to Brighton Cycle Ride, Sunday 11 September

Will you take part?

Invite your communities to raise funds by taking part in an unforgettable 54-mile journey through some spectacular landscapes – an ideal challenge for any keen cyclist!

Become a Sally Army champion and join our fabulous team helping to support those most vulnerable in our communities. Funds raised through your incredible efforts can go towards any Salvation Army project or corps close to your heart.

The Community and Events Fundraising team can provide you with posters and social media posts to help you find participants. We’ll handle all the admin and your corps will receive the income raised.

For information visit salvationarmy.org.uk/cycle/london-brighton-cycle-ride-2022 Email challenge@salvationarmy.org.uk or call the Community and Events Fundraising Unit on 020 7367 4819

Salvationist 21 May 2022

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE INTERNATIONAL APPOINTMENTS The following appointments and promotions, decided upon by the General, have been announced by the Chief of the Staff Effective 1 July O Lieut-Colonels Onai and Deliwe Jera, officers of the Zimbabwe and Botswana Territory, are appointed as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Malawi Territory Effective 1 September O Colonels Kelly and Donna Igleheart, officers of the USA Southern Territory, are appointed as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, USA Southern Territory, with the rank of commissioner O Lieut-Colonels Eddie and Genevera Vincent, officers of the Canada and Bermuda Territory, are appointed as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, USA Western Territory, with the rank of colonel O Lieut-Colonels Cedric and Lyn Hills, officers of the United Kingdom and Ireland Territory, are appointed as Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Germany, Lithuania and Poland Territory, with the rank of colonel O Lieut-Colonel Hosea and Major Liliana Makagiantang, officers of the Indonesia Territory, are appointed as Chief Secretary and Territorial

Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Indonesia Territory. Major Liliana will take up her new appointment responsibilities with the rank of lieut-colonel O Majors Andrew and Darlene Morgan, officers of the Canada and Bermuda Territory, are appointed as Officer Commanding and Command President of Women’s Ministries, Italy and Greece Command, with the rank of lieut-colonel APPOINTED Effective 20 April O Lieutenant Mhairi Smeaton, associate officer, Glasgow City Centre (pro tem) Effective 21 April O Major Andrea Cooper, HSU Regional Chaplaincy Officer, London and Central Regions O Major Leon Dean, HSU Regional Chaplaincy Officer, North West and North East Regions O Major Andrew Richards, HSU Regional Chaplaincy Officer, Scotland and Ireland Regions O Major Nicola Watson, HSU Regional Chaplaincy Officer, Southern and South West and Wales Regions, additional appointment, Assistant Core Recovery Officer, THQ Effective 1 May O Major Graham Mizon, Divisional Special Projects Officer, West Midlands Effective 5 May O Major Stephen Battle, Regional Finance Officer (Newport)

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE O Norway, Iceland and the Færoes Territory, Sat 28 May – Mon 6 Jun THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM O General’s Consultative Council, Mon 23 May – Wed 25 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL O General’s Consultative Council, Mon 23 May – Wed 25* O Proclaimers of Salvation reunion, Tue 24 – Wed 25**

Effective 26 May Captain Alison Greer, Assistant Director, Older People’s Services (Governance and Quality), THQ O Captain Daniel Holland, HSU Regional Manager (London) Effective 30 June O Captains Carl and Elizabeth Di-Palma, additional appointment, Area Candidates Officers, East Midlands Effective 14 July O Major Malcolm Martin, additional appointment, Publishing Secretary, THQ Effective 18 August O Majors Nina and Simon Wright, Belfast Citadel O

LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED CSM Kevin Pallister, Asst CSM Dianne Ridley, Asst CSM Ewan Domleo, Asst CSM Christopher Mapfizda, Asst Youth Team Ldr Anastasia Layton, Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls O CSM Caroline Irwin and CS Margaret Mortlock, Reading Lower Earley O

AWARDED Andrew Wileman, Winton, awarded the British Empire Medal

O

MARRIAGES CSM Alison Kirby to Asst CSM Peter Parker at Snettisham by Major Lorraine O’Neill

O

DEDICATED TO GOD Jayden-Miles Tatenda Mujuru, son of Prisca Mujuru, at Leeds Central by Major Cliff Allchin O Freddie Eric Pallister, son of Luke and Sarah Pallister, at Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls by Major Sarah Murray O Isaac John Clark, son of Daniel and Lindsey Clark, at Salisbury by Captain Suzanne Clark O William James Beecham, son of James and Sarah Beecham, at Morley

by Lieut-Colonel Mike Highton O

RETIRED OFFICERS’ BIRTHDAYS Major June Gosling (85 on 28 May)

O

O God’s Messengers reunion, Sat 28 O Territorial Leaders Conference, Sun 29 – Wed 1 Jun

PROMOTED TO GLORY Brenda Townson, Bolton Citadel O Harold Hinton, Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls O Ernie Newton, Brighton Congress Hall, on 2 April O

THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL PAUL MAIN) AND COLONEL JENINE MAIN O Territorial Leaders Conference, Sun 29 May – Wed 1 Jun * Commissioner Anthony only

22

** Commissioner Gillian only

Salvationist 21 May 2022

ADVERTS

Lieut-Colonel Elizabeth (May) Richardson from Jersey General Hospital on 3 May O Songster Angela Fenn, Penarth, on 5 May O Major Ernest Thompson from George Eliot Hospital, Nuneaton, on 5 May O Major Roy Tipping from Mill View care home, Bolton, on 5 May O

BEREAVED Major Ian Harris, Severn and Somerset DHQ, of his stepmother Jill Harris O Cathy LeFeuvre, Jersey, of her mother Lieut-Colonel Elizabeth (May) Richardson O Geoffrey Thompson, Kirkwall, and Christine Reeves of their father Major Ernest Thompson O Major Ann Tipping of her husband Major Roy Tipping, Beverley, Farnworth, and John of their father O

OFFICIAL GAZETTE LONG SERVICE 25 years O Major Sharen Furlong, Enfield and Divisional Mission Enabler, North London ANTHONY COTTERILL Commissioner Territorial Commander

TRIBUTES COLONEL GRACE NAPIER GRACE Buchan was born in St Combs, a small fishing village in northeast Scotland, in 1932.

When she was 17 both her parents died, one soon after the other, resulting in Grace’s conversion.

She linked up with the small corps in the village where she was the only uniformed Salvationist. Responding to God’s call to officership she became a cadet in the Swordbearers session, entering the training college in 1955.

As a single officer she served in corps appointments for five years, all in the North Scotland Division, before marrying Captain David Napier in 1961.

The tributes that have been received

since her promotion to Glory have been overwhelming as many people whose lives Grace touched have been remembering her fine qualities and the influence she had on them. She has been described as a ‘lovely, lovely lady, Grace by name and gracious by nature’.

She has also been remembered as one who could be confided in, knowing that what was said would never be repeated.

Together with Colonel David, she retired in 1997 after more than 40 years’ active service in corps and headquarters appointments. Their ministry was very much a shared one, with Grace making a valuable contribution. A fine public speaker in her own quiet way, Grace was a leader in her own right.

The last few weeks of her life were very difficult, but she suffered the pain without complaint. She was ready for Heaven and waiting for the Lord to take her. She has now heard Jesus say, ‘Well done good and faithful servant!’

Those who loved Grace most are sad at her passing but know that their loss is Heaven’s gain. They live in the glorious hope that they will meet again. – DN MARY MILLEST, SCUNTHORPE MARY was introduced to The Salvation Army through the torchbearer youth club at Ashby. She was converted at the age of 16 and this began a lifelong commitment of service to her Lord and the Army.

In 1953, she married Bandmaster Bill Millest and there followed three sons – Eric, Paul and Ian – who brought her much happiness.

Mary’s many commissions started with guard leader and included young people’s sergeant-major, corps cadet guardian and adherents secretary. In later years Mary actively managed the Scunthorpe Corps charity shop and led a team of workers for the corps coffee mornings.

Mary was well respected as a Christian woman, choosing The Salvation Army as her avenue of service.

A truly caring person, always ready to pray and testify, her influence will live on and she will be missed by many. – EM/ PM

The Salvation Army has launched its first ever challenge on Facebook. We are inviting people to raise funds for the Army’s work by climbing the equivalent height of the tallest building in 30 countries over the 30 days in June – whether that be on their stairs at home, in the gym or on their favourite flight of steps.

For more information email 30TallestBuildings@ salvationarmy.org.uk or scan the QR code to go straight to the challenge page on the website. Happy climbing!

MGS works professionally providing

O COUNSELLING O THERAPY O MEDIATION MGS works with relationships and other life experiences MGS is confidential, experienced and free Contact Major Jorgen Booth and the MGS team Tel 07711 148538 or email mgscounselling@yahoo.com (Based in Reading – MGS works throughout the UK)

All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and carried at the editor’s discretion.

For more details email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk

Salvationist 21 May 2022

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