Salvationist 22 sep 2012

SALVATIONIST ESSENTIAL READING FOR EVERYONE LINKED TO THE SALVATION ARMY www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 22 September 2012 No 1365 Price 60p

INSIDE THIS WEEK

Council considers alcohol impact Scotland PAGE 4

New Africa development centre premises opened Kenya East PAGE 5

PLUS LOTS MORE!

PAGES 12 & 13

PAPERS War Cry y THE

salvationarmy.org.uk/warcry

Est 1879

No 7083

FIGHTING FOR HEARTS AND SOULS

Q DISNEY ON ICE TOURS THE UK

HOPE

AFTER TRAUMA

Page 8

22 September 2012 20p/25c

ARRESTING! WHAT’S THE ATTRACTION OF ‘JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR’? asks CLAIRE BRINE

WHAT’S the buzz? Tell me what’s happening.

The UK arena tour of Jesus Christ Superstar, that’s what. The rock musical – starring ITV1 Superstar winner Ben Forster as Jesus – hit London’s O2 last night (Friday 21 September).

And once the performances in the capital are Jesus (Ben Forster) is arrested by guards

Q ‘JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR’ TOUR BEGINS

Q TOP TEN FAVOURITE BIBLE STORIES CONTINUES

Q ‘WAR CRY’ SELLER BECOMES WORK OF ART

Q JOKES AND PUZZLES IN GIGGLE IN THE MIDDLE Q AWESOME RADIOCONTROLLED CAR TO WIN!

Q HILLSBOROUGH REPORT BEGINS WITH WORDS ON HUMANITY

Q PATCH’S PALS WITH NAUGHTY NORMAN

Turn to page 3

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS UPWARDS AND OUTWARDS

ROONEY PRAYS BEFORE EVERY MATCH

One of Jesus Christ’s great strengths during his earthly ministry was in spelling out difficult ideas in ways that ordinary people could understand…

I often wonder what parables he would tell today…

Maybe he would compare the Kingdom of Heaven to someone looking for a parking space, driving round and round the car park until they found it.

Perhaps the foolish virgins who didn’t prepare their lamps would be transformed into foolish computer users who refused to back up their documents and lost them all just before a vital presentation.

Catholic footballer Wayne Rooney has revealed that he prays for his family before matches.

The Manchester United forward told TalkSport radio: ‘I pray to God, of course. I believe in God’...

He told presenter Richard Keyes: ‘I pray in the physio room. I go in after my warm-up. I basically spend a few minutes in there on my own.

‘I don’t pray to help me score goals. I pray for the health of me and everyone on the pitch…

I pray at night. I pray for my family and friends and for the health of everyone I love.’

‘From the Editor’, All the World

The Catholic Herald

NEWS IN BRIEF

ELVIS ADDS GLOSS TO BIBLE SHOW

A Farnworth vicar appeared on Channel 4… to speak in favour of naturism. The Rev Bob Horrocks believes ‘being naked is a part of society’ and belongs to the Christian Naturist Fellowship. During the 4Thought programmes he answered the question: ‘Is it a sin to bare our flesh?’

A Bible… owned and annotated by Elvis Presley is to go on show in All Hallows by the Tower, London…

It was auctioned… for £59,000…

The curator of the [‘Bonuses, Benefits And Bailouts: The Morality Of The King James Bible’] exhibition, David Smith, said: ‘It will stand beside a rare copy of the 1953 Coronation Bible – the King’s Bible alongside the Queen’s.’

The Church of England Newspaper

Church Times

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS Tel: 0845 634 0101 SALVATIONIST 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN Tel: 020 7367 4890 Fax: 020 7367 4691 Email: salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk Web: www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist A registered newspaper published weekly by The Salvation Army (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) on behalf of the General of The Salvation Army and printed by benhamgoodheadprint Limited, Bicester, Oxon. © Linda Bond, General of The Salvation Army, 2012. The Salvation Army Trust is a registered charity. The charity number in England and Wales is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

EDITOR Major Stephen Poxon Tel: 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson Tel: 020 7367 4891 ASSISTANT EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley Tel: 020 7367 4892 ASSISTANT EDITOR Claire Anderson Tel: 020 7367 4894 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Laura Barker Tel: 020 7367 4893 DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter Tel: 020 7367 4895 DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza Tel: 020 7367 4896 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jonathan Carmichael Tel: 020 7367 4883 ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino Tel: 020 7367 4881 ADVERTISING Tel: 020 7367 4883 Email: advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH Tel: 01933 445451 Fax: 01933 445415 Email: keith.jennings@sp-s.co.uk THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Linda Bond TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner André Cox EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Leanne Ruthven

2

22 September 2012 SALVATIONIST

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

COMMENT

The debt of love I owe

O ‘In the relationships of believers one with another, let it be said that the closer our walk with God, the closer our walk with each other’ (General Frederick Coutts)

NEWS Pages 4 – 6, 8 & 9

ScotlandWestScotlandBoscombeHythe ShottonCollieryKenyaEastStainesIndonesia CentralNorthExmouthLondonCentralFiley Newbiggin-by-the-SeaSunderlandMillfield LurganSouthamptonShirleyReadingCentral NewcastleuponTyneSkewenWandsworth SouthseaStockportHeatonNorrisDunstable MinsterPaisley

SUMMER SCHOOL NEWS Page 7

UT of the blue (no pun intended) a policeman rang me at THQ the other day.

‘Ello, ‘ello, ‘ello, I thought, what’s all this then?

He was perfectly reasonable, but he did say he might have to arrest me on account of the fact that I had, on holiday, stopped at a petrol station in North Yorkshire, helped myself to £34 worth of fuel, then driven off without paying. Understandably, the owner of the petrol station was pressing charges.

A few moments of Kissinger-level diplomacy ensued, while I persuaded PC7133 that I wasn’t really a thief and that I would happily pay the bill if he, in turn, would keep his handcuffs just where they were. (I had visions of the TC appearing in reception just as I was

having my collar felt on my way to a lengthy stretch inside, at Her Majesty’s pleasure.)

The deal agreed, I hurried to explain my life of crime to Heather, my wife.

She works on Floor 5 here, whereas I occupy the lower echelons of 101 Newington Causeway, but, try as I might, I couldn’t get the lift to respond to my flustered use of my swipe card. Oh how I laughed when I noticed, after a few minutes, I was actually trying to call the lift using my Visa card! The number of times I swiped it, I reckon I must have paid off most of the Army’s bills for the next decade.

Anyway, all’s well that ends well.

I settled the debt, apologised, and promised to buy my petrol somewhere else in the future.

I breathed a sigh of relief, but had to ask a couple of times if the charges were actually dropped. I also checked that the threat of being arrested had disappeared. I was anxious to know for certain if I was in the clear.

Friends, if someone wrongs us, disappoints us, sins, or messes up and then asks for forgiveness, let us leave them in no doubt at all that they are forgiven. Not being absolutely certain that the matter has been dealt with is a terrible anxiety to bear – all for the want of a clear expression of reassurance.

I know – I’ve been there; with people whose forgiveness I have craved, which hasn’t been obviously stated, even though it may have been granted. A handshake, an arm around the shoulder, an email, a letter – it’s not rocket science. It’s the beautiful essence of John 8:1–11, yet so very easy to overlook.

It takes grace to forgive, but – a little like my visit to the petrol station – it’s only a job half done if the person desperately in need of that grace doesn’t quite know where they stand.

MAJOR STEPHEN POXON, EDITOR

LETTERS

VIEWPOINT

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Page 10

Do pagans stand on ceremony?

Army people, engagements and tributes

Page 14

Pages 18 & 19

REFLECTION Someone’s watching over me Page 11

Trooping their colours Pages 12 & 13

BIBLE STUDY

ADVERTS

Muck and glory

Pages 20 – 23

Page 15

FEATURE

NEW COMMITMENTS Pages 16 & 17

NorthernCentralSouth

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

SALVATIONIST 22 September 2012

3

NEWS Council considers alcohol impact Scotland THE Scotland Council has met under the chairmanship of Territorial Commander Commissioner André Cox. A visit by Dr Adrian Bonner and Major Dean Logan, from THQ’s Addiction Services, to update the council on the implementation of phase one of the Scotland Drug and Alcohol Strategy Group, resulted in a ringing endorsement for this exciting project to move forward into the second phase.

Dr Bonner reported that he was now working with internationally recognised academics at the University of Stirling. While acknowledging the extent of the problems in Scotland, Dr Bonner stressed that alcohol misuse and consumption is a global issue that affects almost every nation in the world.

Turning his attention to the impact of alcohol advertising and sophisticated promotions on young people, the council was informed of the strategy of the alcohol industry turning its attention, and resources, to internet advertising on social network sites, where there is very little regulation. Dr Bonner stressed that an opportunity exists to mobilise our own young people, via ALOVE, to campaign and alert their generation to the manipulative nature of such advertising, as well as educating young people on the dangers of the binge-drinking culture that prevails across Scotland and the UK. All of this resonates with the work the Army is doing in Scotland through the project.

Floating support workers, managed from The Salvation Army Greenock Floating Support Services, will soon be working at Greenock, Stirling and Falkirk Corps, offering a community reinforce ment approach to those caught up in alcohol addiction. In phase two this approach will move into locations in North Scotland. The ultimate and compelling vision of a Centre of Excellence serving people with addiction issues, especially those at risk of mental health and dementia, and supporting community/corps-

4

based workers would see the project making a real difference across Scotland.

Dr Bonner emphasised that this 21st-century work was precisely what William Booth envisaged in his book, In Darkest England And The Way Out, in referring to ‘drink trafficking’.

The TC stated this was in the DNA of the Army and was clearly inspired by the direction this work was taking and the opportunity this created to share the life-changing story of Jesus with service users.

Among other items on a packed agenda were updates on

Division shows its commitment to mission West Scotland SEVENTY people attended The Fight And The Fire divisional mission day at Hamilton College to discuss how to effectively evangelise within the community. Scotland Secretary Lieut-Colonel

Boscombe Corps congratulates Eva Woollard on her 100th birthday

Alan Burns began the day by reminding everyone that Jesus was the mission and motivation. Workshops included Messy Church, Disability Ministry, Reaching Men With The Gospel, Children’s Advocacy and Craft In Worship. There was also a prayer room and a resource exhibition. Divisional Commander Major Russell Wyles said: ‘It is exciting seeing so many people committed to mission.

This can only be good news for the division.’ – C. W.

Corps officer Major Howard Evans presents Margaret Fletcher with a certificate of appreciation as she retires after 22 years’ service as parentand-toddler group treasurer at Shotton Colliery

Barbecues and the Bible Hythe FOLLOWING a morning service reflecting on Elijah’s duel against the 450 prophets of Baal, corps folk reunited in the afternoon for the annual church barbecue. Bandmaster Richard Carroll

22 September 2012 SALVATIONIST

Mission Scotland where momentum continues to grow at grass roots across Scotland, and a helpful report from Divisional Commander Major Russell Wyles (West Scotland) who, having visited the Olympic Games in London and witnessed the excellent work of the various mission teams, updated the council on More than Gold and the mission opportunities for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2014. The council also held an informative debate on the Army’s robust response to the same sex marriage legislation which has recently been approved by the Scottish Government.

The TC and Commissioner Silvia Cox are pictured with Scotland Council members after an inspiring meeting. – A. B.

cooked the food, supervised by Paul Marshall, who is a member of the Fire Service.

The event provided the opportunity for community members to get to know the corps folk in an informal setting and associate being a Christian with normal, enjoyable events – such as having a decent barbecue! – P. L.

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

NEWS New Africa development centre premises opened Kenya East THE Salvation Army’s newly renovated Africa Development Centre in Nairobi was opened and dedicated to God

by Commissioners Amos and Rosemary Makina (IHQ). It is the first permanent home of the centre, which was established on 1 January 2010 and comprises two units – the Africa Development Office and the Salvation Army Leadership Training College (SALT College) of Africa. The centre is a satellite unit of IHQ. The centre provides support to Army territories, commands and regions throughout Africa, aiding with the formulation of policies and strategies for growth and development, and co-ordinating and providing in-service training for officers and leaders.

Guests at the opening included the territorial leadership team, Commissioners John and Dorita Wainwright and Colonels Gabriel and Monica Kathuri, as well as representatives who had supported the renovation work.

– K. S.

Rioting decimates corps Kenya East RIOTING in Mombasa has considerably damaged the corps.

Part of the building has been burnt and most of the corps equipment, including brass instruments, the sound system and corps flags, has been destroyed.

The fellowship requests prayer as it seeks to find a way forward while still bringing the love of Jesus to the community during this time of unrest. – L. R.

Salvation Army teams continue to offer support

Major Nigel Tansley displays the recognition of achievement award, presented to the Central North Division’s emergency response team by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service for their support over the past ten years. Major Tansley, who received the award at the fire service headquarters, is pictured with Station Manager Tony Brian (left) and Deputy Chief Fire Officer Jim Owen

Captains Craig and Karinna Exon (Hibiscus Coast, New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga) hold two ducks whose journey started at Staines Corps as part of the Duck Awards corps fundraiser for the Big Collection

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

Indonesia SALVATION Army Compassion in Action teams continue to support communities affected by an earthquake in the Central Sulawesi Province. One of the worst-hit areas was the Lindu District, where five Salvationists lost their lives. A Salvation Army corps and a school were among many buildings to suffer significant damage.

Chief Secretary Colonel Mike Parker visited Lindu District to give support and encouragement, and to pray with people who had lost loved ones, homes and possessions.

He reports: ‘Salvationists are in good spirits, have a strong faith and are coping well with this situation. Our Compassion in Action team is working well and the logistics are in place to provide immediate support and goods. The bigger challenge will be the rebuilding of homes and halls.’

Trauma counselling is now being offered.

Support is also being offered in another area of Sulawesi where four lives were lost and a number of homes swept away in a mudslide, and in Manado, North Sulawesi, where a volcanic eruption is causing concern.

– A. R.

SALVATIONIST 22 September 2012

5

NEWS Congregation vows to maintain bond Exmouth CORPS folk said farewell to Glenorchy United Reformed Church members who have shared the corps building since the start of the year due to refurbishments in their own building.

Corps officer Major Steven Watson and the Rev Robert Jennings led the final joint meeting and the major spoke of the special bond which had developed between the congregations and will continue in the future through joint ventures.

– S. W.

Emergency team responds

Sunderland FC goalkeeping legend Jimmy Montgomery is pictured with Sunderland Millfield Band at a community open day in Silksworth; the event, organised by the Methodist Church, attracted a large crowd

London Central THE emergency response vehicle was in attendance at three very large fires in a number of weeks.

A fire at Dagenham involved 40 fire engines and more than 200 firefighters. The vehicle was in attendance for 48 hours. The following week a fire broke out at Beddington and a few days later there was a warehouse fire in Walthamstow, both involving 15 fire engines.

Each of these incidents required the support of a large number of personnel from London Central and London North-East Divisions.

The fire station manager at Stoke Newington thanked Divisional Emergency Services Officer Captain Karl Gray for The Salvation Army’s response at these incidents.

– K. G. Newbiggin-by-the-Sea: During the annual triathlon the corps folk distributed Back to Church Sunday leaflets, opened the community hall and offered free tea and coffee to connect with the community. – P. H. Filey Corps Singers present Gowans and Larsson songs in a Singers Musical Evening raising £200 for the Big Collection; it was a good night of fellowship and fun for everyone

6

22 September 2012 SALVATIONIST

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

SUMMER SCHOOL NEWS Northern Sam Innes (Sunderland Millfield) reports THE summer school theme, Together, could not have been better, with the whole school being so close and showing support and care for each other during the week at the College of St Hild and St Bede, Durham.

On Saturday evening the games night involved a tug-ofwar, water-bomb volleyball and spud knockers – my favourite was Drag The DYO, timed to see which team could carry him a certain distance the fastest!

Everyone filled in a spiritual gifts questionnaire on Sunday morning. During the afternoon Majors Nigel and Kim Gotobed and Captain Howard Russell (all DHQ) led the first workshop.

This was an opportunity to look at our spiritual gifts, what they mean and how we can use them.

We also had the opportunity to create an event that would bring more people into our corps.

In the second workshop Captain Andrea Cooper (Jarrett

The Northern school enjoys Jubilee night

We started Bible study classes on Monday, a time to share and listen together. Second studies were also introduced, including worship band, timbrels, arts and crafts and sport.

The Monday night Jubilee party mimicked a traditional street party. The school united in singing the National Anthem and ‘Rule Britannia’. Students

Time for plenty of outdoor fun

Community Project) opened our eyes to the huge issue of human trafficking. It was a fantastic opportunity to see what The Salvation Army does and how ALOVE’s Cut It Out campaign is one way we can all fight against human trafficking.

We visited Durham Sanctuary 21 – a house of prayer and sanctuary – for a fantastic night of worship and fellowship. We had the opportunity to ask each staff member any question we wanted.

I was greatly encouraged by what they had to say. It was great to see how the Sanctuary 21 prayer wall, which last year covered several of the downstairs rooms, was starting to move up the stairs.

from the Netherlands sang their national anthem as well.

The theme of the Tuesday night disco was Nursery Rhymes And Children’s Stories. A fantastic array of costumes included Noddy, one of the three bears and the Grand Old Duke of York and his 20 or so Sunderland Millfield men. Batman and Robin singing ‘I Will Always Love You’ was a personal highlight.

The midweek festival on Wednesday always comes too fast for both students and staff, as by this point it seems as if the week is already coming to an end. All sections produced an excellent night of entertainment as well as worship.

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

Thursday is always a pivotal point of summer school as it is our night of worship. After having such a busy time leading up to the midweek festival, it is great to be able to spend a whole night with God. It is so encouraging to be with many other Christians who are all in a similar position and to spend time with each other and with God. This makes it such an important aspect of summer school.

By Friday the combination of busy days, late nights and early mornings kicked in and the fact that the final festival was so close meant it was a very busy day. The formal and talent evening with a three-course meal and entertainment included an ode to Nadine Slijkhuis, a solo

by Kyle Roland, Alex Morgan playing guitar and summer school awards.

The hard work of the week was demonstrated at the Saturday festival. A highlight was the band’s ‘Salute To The General’ – a salute to the Founder who was promoted to Glory 100 years ago.

Central South DYO Nathan Loxley reports REACH was a groundbreaking week enjoyed by all at William Booth College, London. The young people provided the inspiration as they explored new ways in which they can be a part of God’s mission. This involved going deeper into Scripture, practising ancient spiritual disciplines and experiencing practical ways to serve their communities.

Discipline Leads To Freedom soon became the motto for the week.

There was a great sense of God’s presence throughout which helped to unite the camp as a family. Highlights of the week included inspirational speaking by Lieut-Colonel Janet Munn (International College for Officers and Centre for Spiritual Life Development), music by Caleb Taylor and serving alongside Laos youth at Nunhead Corps community week. A treasure hunt around the City of London meant that some young people saw the sights of London for the first time.

Central South students discover London

SALVATIONIST 22 September 2012

7

NEWS First visit for SASWE Lurgan THE corps enjoyed a wonderful weekend of music and praise when the Salvation Army Symphonic Wind Ensemble (SASWE) made its first visit to Ireland.

The Saturday evening concert, supported by the songsters, followed the theme I Am The Bread Of Life and opened with the rousing march ‘Deliberate!’ composed by Andrew Mackereth, SASWE’s musical director. The congregation was treated to a feast of music, including ‘In The Love Of Jesus’ and extracts from ‘Why Should The Devil Have All The Best Tunes?’. Lieutenant Jennifer Gosling (Perth) brought the message which centred on the Israelites’ journey from Egypt and God’s provision for his people. The concert ended with ‘The Love And Power Of Christ’ and ‘Cause For Celebration’.

The Sunday holiness meeting, led by Lieutenants David and Jennifer Gosling, took the theme I Am The Good Shepherd.

In the afternoon SASWE focused on I Am The Light Of The World with the Bible message given by Lieutenant David Gosling.

The weekend was a wonderfully varied and different experience for all who gathered.

– G. W.

Youth host holiday at home

Support for festivalgoers Reading Central FOR 40 years Corps Mission Secretary Stuart Scott has planned the corps presence at Reading Festival. During this time he has established a close working relationship with festival promoters Mean Fiddler.

He was aided by more than 40

volunteers from the corps youth group and local churches, who served refreshments and offered counselling, advice, blankets and clothing to some of the 90,000 festivalgoers. From the Wednesday lunchtime to the Monday, the service was provided 24 hours a day.

The promoters donated to the corps unwanted non-perishable food, left over after the festival, which will be used in Christmas parcels. – P. B.

In Newcastle upon Tyne Sandra Clark celebrates 40 years’ employment with The Salvation Army. At 17 she started work at a mother and baby home and is now centre manager at Cedar House.

She received a certificate of recognition and a letter of appreciation and staff and residents presented her with flowers and a celebratory cake

Olympic legacy Wandsworth THE London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and the Re-use Network selected the corps community shop as an outlet for the disposal of items left over from the athletes’ accommodation. This means that a wide range of bedding and general household goods will soon be delivered to the shop.

Shop manager Richard Baggaley confirmed that while much of this stock will be used to help homeless people and vulnerable families, it will also raise funds for ongoing corps work across the borough.

– R. B.

8

Southampton Shirley THE combined youth club of Shirley Baptist Church and the corps arranged a weeklong Holiday At Home for senior citizens unable to go away for a holiday. All the crafts, quizzes and activities had a royal theme in recognition of the Diamond Jubilee.

Ten young people enjoyed hosting the guests by serving meals, preparing a buffet for a garden party, leading Scottish dancing and ensuring everyone had a good time. – J. W.

Band and songsters return Beavers learn about the Army Skewen THE Bryncoch, Neath Beavers visited the hall to learn about The Salvation Army. Corps officer Major Gordon Atter gave

22 September 2012 SALVATIONIST

a presentation and informed them that the Army is a Christian church as well as a charity.

In a tour of the building the major explained the various Salvation Army symbols, and concluded the visit with action choruses. – S. L.

Newbiggin-by-the-Sea THE band and songsters returned to Seahouses to present a programme at the Methodist Church after a number of years since their last visit.

Ivan Storey (vocal) and Martin Soulsby (cornet) contributed solo items. Joe Dobinson and Stan Wearmouth played a euphonium duet. – P. H.

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

NEWS

Congregation hears about summer camp Southsea YOUNG people who attended a five-day summer camp, arranged by children’s worker Amanda Streather, participated in Sunday morning worship. They used music, the spoken word and a puppet display to report the activities of the camp, which took the theme On Your Marks and was held at an activity centre.

The young people were given the opportunity to share their personal feelings about the week and leaders spoke of the children’s interaction and achievements. – T. M.

Chef supports Army Southsea CHEF Peter Collins came out of alcohol rehabilitation more than two years ago.

He volunteered at the corps community outreach centre and when the Lighthouse Café

After spending three days helping to redecorate Dunstable hall, Songster Librarian Val Jefferys was delighted to get her hands on an Olympic torch brought along by a guest speaker to the over-60 Friendship Club

These are some of the 46 people who attended three sessions of Messy Church at Stockport Heaton Norris; families who would not normally attend church had a lot of fun and explored themes from the Old Testament

Holiday club champions opened he was employed as chef.

In return for the help he received from the Army, he undertook a sponsored parachute jump and a quiz night raising £400 for the community centre Christmas parcel programme.

Peter is pictured (bottom) with an instructor on his parachute jump at Old Sarum. – T. M.

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

Paisley THE five-day children’s holiday club themed More Than Gold was a great success. Each day started with a torch-lighting ceremony followed by a variety of craft activities, Bible teaching and field and track events.

A Champion’s Day coincided with Back to School Sunday.

Minster: The holiday club’s theme, Right On, encouraged children to make right choices in their lives. Each day was packed with crafts, games, Bible stories and worship. The week ended with parents sharing lunch and the children presenting songs and a drama about the good Samaritan. – B. H.

The congregation sat around the sides of the hall to give the impression of stadium seating and the children participated with races, a parade of champions and by singing ‘Keep On Walking With Jesus’. Every child who attended the holiday club received a Bible presented

by Mrs Colonel Jessie Kennedy.

The holiday club was followed by a fun for all community day.

– M. L.

SALVATIONIST 22 September 2012

9

LETTERS

Q Influence of life-saving guards I WAS interested to read the letter regarding the life-saving guard programme. My mother was attracted to the Army through it when, as an orphan, she lived with an aunt whose daughters attended the programme.

She eventually emigrated to Canada where she became an officer, married my father and then transferred to the United States. In all their appointments she was a life-saving guard enthusiast. Their four children are all Salvationists, three of whom are retired officers and two of the next generation are officers. We never know how a ministry will influence people.

Frank Payton, Colonel, New York, USA

Q How about a forum?

WHAT sort of an Army would we have if more of us had the focus and total commitment of an Olympic athlete in the achievement of our goals?

I suspect that our Founders had that commitment and the phenomenal growth and influence of the Army during their lifetimes were the result. Many others have followed in their footsteps and still do.

We live in an age of doubt rather than certainty and of open-mindedness rather than settled beliefs. Liberal thinking, which I admire, blunts the edges of clarity between right and wrong.

What will release that life-changing, society-transforming energy? I suggest it would be a clear focus on what God wants our Army to be here and now.

How about an ongoing forum in Salvationist where ideas can be shared and discussed?

Cliff Howes, Harlow

10

Q Invaluable RSDS I WAS interested and pleased to read Major Jane Kimberley’s article on military chaplaincy through the eyes of Captain Chris Hall (Salvationist 25 August). I pray that others will be called to undertake this needed and fulfilling work.

Having been responsible for the Red Shield Defence Services (RSDS) from 2004 to 2008, I can only echo the captain’s enthusiasm for this important role.

However, one thing in the report is not true as far as I am aware. The Salvation Army has been a ‘sending church’ since the First World War but decided not to undertake the chaplaincy role through the Royal Army Chaplains Department, preferring to operate outside the military chain of command through the RSDS. The Salvation Army could have presented officers for chaplaincy commissions at any time. I am pleased that the present leadership have decided to again take up the option of ‘sending’ officers for chaplaincy.

I trust that this new course of action does not mean the demise of RSDS, for this service has given and continues to

Q Have you said your prayers?

Secretary for Programme Lieut-Colonel Ian Barr (THQ) responds: Technically we have been eligible to be a sending church but from 1918 to 2011 did not offer officers for military chaplaincy.

However, we have never seen Red Shield Defence Services as either a substitute for or alternative to military chaplaincy. They are quite separate and distinct roles.

The pastoral work of RSDS is to some extent facilitated by our ‘standing outside the military chain of command’ but it is military chaplains within the structure who have prime pastoral responsibility for the care of soldiers and their families. RSDS provides additional pastoral support, not an alternative to that provided by the chaplains.

We are happy that The Salvation Army has the opportunity to serve the military community through military chaplaincy and the distinctive ministry of hospitality and pastoral care provided by RSDS.

Q Informative Bible studies

READING Major Russell’s letter (Salvationist 8 September) reminded me of my call-up in 1948. I used to kneel at my bed to pray; lads soon got used to me and ignored it.

As soon as I finished my training, as a soldier of the Royal Artillery, I was shipped off to the Middle East where I knelt on the groundsheet and prayed next to the gun.

One night, a member of the gun crew who was on guard, said to me: ‘Have you said your prayers yet, Walt?’ I realised then that prayer was not just part of my life, but part of six other lads’ lives as well during those rough six months.

Walter Peverell, Market Deeping

22 September 2012 SALVATIONIST

give present RSDS officers/employees an opportunity to get alongside military personnel and their families outside the military chain of command – something of tremendous value to our military friends.

Malcolm Watkins, Major, Carnforth

MAY I say how much I have enjoyed the Bible studies in Salvationist by Captain Scott Linnett. They were interesting, very informative and easy to understand.

I look forward to many more writings by him.

Vera Poxon, Billingham Readers sending letters by email should include their name, full rank if applicable and full postal address Q Please remember, letters for publication in Salvationist should be carefully thought out, logically presented and charitably expressed Q Not all letters can be printed Q The Editor reserves the right to edit letters or print extracts Q Write to Salvationist (Letters), 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN or email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

REFLECTION

Someone’s watching over me Major Pamela Fear reflects on a favourite pastime

N

OW that the Olympics and Paralympics are over, may I suggest another national sport that might be of interest?

No gold, silver or bronze medals are at stake, but I recommend people-watching as a pastime!

In the shopping centre, perhaps? Or gazing out of the window of a coffee shop? Or even, dare I say it, in a meeting?

I people-watch all the time. Do you? It can be fascinating.

Reading the Gospels, I become increasingly convinced that Jesus was a great people-watcher too. I’m in good company!

Look at Matthew 9:36 (all quotations from New International Version) for example, in which Christ ‘saw the crowds’. Not only did he see them milling around, he saw their great need of a shepherd. In other words, he saw beyond the obvious and the superficial. Not only did the people fascinate Jesus, they touched his heart too.

In the Middle East, the shepherd leads the flock. Jesus saw the spiritual need of the crowd – their need to be gently led and cared for. We can take heart from the fact that he sees what we need too.

Also consider Matthew 23:27, in which Jesus tells the Pharisees what

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

he thinks of their misplaced pride and hypocrisy. This reminded me of a window-fitter who once did some work in my house. He took a real pride in his work, in little ways that no one may ever have noticed. He was conscientious and wanted the private satisfaction of a job well done.

The Pharisees, on the other hand, wanted their good works to be seen by all and sundry. They paraded their righteousness and went out of their way to let people know how good they were.

Appearance was everything.

By way of contrast, look at the fishermen Jesus chose for ministry.

Maybe Jesus chose certain men of the sea as his disciples because he observed the unassuming way they went about mending their nets – not seeking acclaim, just doing their work (see Mark 1:16–20); surely, the hallmark of an evangelist.

Jesus ‘people-watched’ when the widow placed her mite – all she had – in the Temple offering. In Mark 12:41–44, Jesus condemns the ostentatiousness of those giving large amounts.

Once again, Jesus saw beyond the obvious, noticing that the widow’s gift represented sacrifice. In the Kingdom of God, it is the heart that counts – our motivation.

An experience that haunts me even now took place one evening at the Metro station in Newcastle upon Tyne. I was waiting for my train when I noticed an inebriated man sitting on the edge of the platform with his legs dangling over the rails. He was in a dangerous, precarious situation, yet I – in my Salvation Army uniform – hesitated to approach him.

I was rooted to the spot with fear and indecision. Thankfully, someone else helped, but I went home feeling ashamed. My weakness had got the better of me.

This reminded me of Luke 22:31–34, in which Peter makes all kinds of protestations about following Jesus come what may. Ultimately, though, he proved to be weak. Jesus saw through his bravado. I thank God for Paul’s good advice in 1 Corinthians 10:12: ‘If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!’

Are we not all a bit like Peter?

Jesus knows when we are rooted to the spot because of fear, or a lack of faith perhaps, or a failure of confidence.

He knows those moments when we feel overwhelmed by life and circumstances.

Thankfully, Jesus sees not only our weaknesses, but our potential too.

He sees what we can be. When he ‘people-watches’, he sees our failings, but he never loses sight of what we can still become. He has work for us to do.

The latter part of John 21 describes Peter’s restoration to ministry. Peter had denied Christ three times (see Mark 14:66–72), but Jesus graciously confirmed his restoration with three questions.

Peter became a changed man. He renewed his commitment and went on to be a strong leader of the Early Church, eventually losing his life for Christ.

TO CONSIDER Jesus sees us. He knows the real person, despite every pretence. He never takes his eye off all that we can be in his service.

As I return to the coffee shop to people-watch, I thank God that he is always watching over me. Q Q Major Fear lives in retirement in Hartlepool

SALVATIONIST 22 September 2012

11

Cla

ire

An

de

A

rso

nc

atc

QUIET, reflective interview was never going to be possible when meeting the boisterous musicians of the Household Troops Band as they pack in a full Saturday’s ministry. Chatting to Bandmaster Carl Saunders and Band Sergeant Andrew Miller (‘Sarge’ to the initiated) before an evening gig proved nigh on impossible as banter flew, deafening us and rendering my digital recorder useless. Even before attempting the interview, Carl is instructed: ‘Make sure you tell her we’re better than the Staff Band! Well, maybe not better, but more interesting!’

Introduced to the Troops – tongue-in-cheekily referred to as ‘the people’s band’ – it became quickly apparent why it is the band for ‘the people’. The personable musicians, the easylistening music and the sense of fun with which the Troops enter into every occasion are infectious and downright appealing.

Carl says: ‘At engagements the band goes onto the street for open-air ministry and takes people back to a festival in the evening. At many places the band has brought people back to the Army or brought new people in through its ministry.’

The band started life in 1885 as the Life Guards Band – with its members wearing striking red jackets and pith helmets, the military headgear of the day – and was disbanded only a few years later.

Some 100 years on, the National Bandmaster – then Captain John Mott – formed the next generation at Cobham Hall National Music School. Carl was also a founding member of the ’85 band.

While the Troops have regular engagements, they are not able to rehearse beforehand. Says Sarge: ‘Because the members of the band are spread all over the country and have their own corps commitments, we can’t rehearse. That’s why the band is made up of younger guys with the ability to play well and who have the stamina to fulfil our type of engagements.’

Carl adds that the musicians’ relaxed demeanour and enthusiasm for music and ministry also help when touring becomes tough. ‘On a tour of the South Coast we had no billets, so the organisers put us up in a football club,’ he recalls. ‘The

he

su

pw

ith

the

Ho

us

eh

boys slept on the physio bench, in the changing rooms, on the floor. The place stank of cigarettes but they just got on with it. Sometimes the sillier and the more awful the situations are, the funnier they are!’

‘The People’s Band’ could fulfil more engagements, should time allow, as invitations pour in from beyond Army circles – for flower shows, carnivals and even military tattoos! Carl admits: ‘Typically we run no more than about seven engagements a year, because, logistically, we couldn’t do any more than that.

There’s a belief that our best use as a resource is to play in a venue of 250 non-Salvationists, and perhaps nonChristians. Also, possibly one of the features of the band is its outdoor ministry. At Gospel Arts, while events go on inside the Albert Hall, the Troops have been outside at the Albert Memorial reaching the general public.’

At the start of 2012, the band completed a tour of Southern California and took part in the Rose Bowl Parade. It has also visited Horsham in the UK and Sweden. The band still has an engagement in Southport to fulfil and to take part in the Lord Mayor’s show in London.

Sarge comments: ‘You will always see the band on the march. Wherever we go, we march on the street, do an open-air meeting and interact with the people who listen to us. Hopefully

old

Tro

op

sB

an

d

‘The band started life in 1885 as the Life Guards Band – with its members wearing striking red jackets and pith helmets, the military headgear of the day’

12

22 September 2012 SALVATIONIST

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

FEATURE we will bring some of them back to the concert in the evening where we provide them with a programme that is entertaining and features the word. Our programme is subtly different – with more mainstream music sitting happily alongside something with a message.’

With no rehearsals prior to events, the nervous moments before displays can only be imagined! Carl smiles: ‘If we have an opportunity – ten minutes here, half an hour there – we get together. We tend to have marching displays worked up for a specific event, which then evolve as we go.’

Sarge adds: ‘We’ve always been blessed with having guys from the military bands in the Troops. “Dolly” (David Lockwood, Chatham) had input and prior to that we had Ralph Brill (formerly Enfield) – who’s now the band sergeant-major of the Band of the Scots Guards – who would put the Troops through their paces.’

One of the most recent displays took place at the Albert Hall for Major John Mott’s retirement as bandmaster. Says Sarge: ‘A few weeks earlier the band had been trying to learn the display in a car park in Norway. If you’d have told me it would look as brilliant as it did based on that run-through, I wouldn’t have believed you!’

The next display, in Sweden, was watched by thousands of people over a three-day

tattoo. Speaking before the tour, Sarge theorised: ‘There will be other bands but we’ll be the band with a subtly different programme. The challenge for Carl is to pick music – sacred and secular – that people will instantly recognise. For example, today we played “Amazing Grace” and the crowd responded immediately.’

For musicians who want to play to a high standard in a noncontesting brass band but cannot commit to the travel and rehearsals involved with Staff Band membership, the Troops Band provides a fantastic alternative. Pecker (Andy Piper, Leicester South) admits: ‘The ISB is a hard commitment.

Though the Troops are very busy, it’s a different kind of commitment. I believe in the usefulness and effectiveness of music in church and I feel useful in the Troops.’

Carl and Sarge are strong advocates of brass-band evangelism, with Carl affirming: ‘A band on a street corner attracts attention – whatever band it is – but we give a message and offer the opportunity for people to follow that up.’

Cynics suggest that some attention stems from people noticing the band’s ‘outdated’ uniform, particularly the pith helmets. Sarge laughs: ‘I think you have to give the public the credit to recognise the difference between a ceremonial, historical outfit and what we’d all wear for day-to-day work. It’s probably fair to say that Salvationists have a bigger problem with the pith helmets than the average man in the street does.’

The band’s ministry is also self-funding. Its musicians pay most of their overseas tour costs, while engagements and recordings bring in an income – the band’s Blue Favourite CD is one of SP&S’s best-selling CDs. Major John Mott regularly carries out fundraising too.

But what of the future of the band and its continuing ministry? Carl concludes: ‘This mission we’re on is a never-ending journey; there’s not going to be a resolution to it. We’ll carry on as long as people want us to.’ Q

‘I believe in the usefulness and effectiveness of music in church and I feel useful in the Troops’

Q Carl is bandmaster at Cardiff Canton; Andrew worships at Milton Keynes

VIEWPOINT

Do pagans stand on ceremony?

Kevin Chubb explores the rites and rituals of paganism

P

AGANISM – a religious belief that is non-Jewish, non-Muslim and non-Christian – is probably something of a mystery to most Christians. It is not a subject that features prominently in Salvationism!

With its basis in peasant life – the word ‘pagan’ is derived from the same root as peasant and entered into English via the Latin pagus, meaning ‘country district’ – paganism is now mainstream to such an extent that serving police officers can join a formally organised pagan staff support association.

What, though, is it about? Some European countries retained their pagan (non-Abrahamic) status as late as the eighteenth century. Modern pagans would see themselves as rebuilding or maintaining a suppressed creed with all its artefacts, rituals, seasonal observances, belief systems and myriad deities.

Paganism in 2012 is, generally speaking, divided among those who practise Wicca (witchcraft), observers of ancient Celtic religious rites, shamans (those with access to good and evil spirits) and many more ‘sub-groups’.

A pagan may be a theist, an agnostic or an atheist. The eclectic nature of paganism seems to be part of its appeal.

Pagans have a clear ethical code, including: A STRONG RESPECT FOR NATURE Indeed, recognition of the divine in nature is at the heart of pagan belief. The ‘green’ emphasis within paganism is probably due to its associations with animism – that is, the attribution of a living soul to plants, inanimate objects and natural phenomena.

14

THE PROMOTION OF THE WELLBEING OF YOUNG PEOPLE AND VULNERABLE ADULTS The UK Pagan Federation does not accept into membership anyone under the age of 18. Groups are strongly advised to exercise vulnerable adult protection policies.

Given all this, do we need to be concerned about a religion whose membership levels hover at around 200,000? In my view, there are certain segments of society that might be particularly vulnerable to pagan influence: YOUNG PEOPLE Despite the ‘no under-18s’ policy, the number of 14 to 18-year-olds accessing the Pagan Federation inquirer line has recently increased. It is inevitable – and, indeed, desirable – that most young people will embark upon a personal spiritual pilgrimage.

To that end, it behoves Salvationists to encourage those who come within our sphere of influence to set a good example of Christian living and authentic godliness.

PRISONERS Prisoners may now legally request a pagan spiritual mentor, in much the same way as a prisoner may request the services of a chaplain. While this is to be applauded in terms of equal rights, it does also mean that Christian prison chaplains face an ever-increasing struggle to make a significant witness.

SPIRITUALLY MINDED ENVIRONMENTALISTS A devotee of paganism might observe, say, the rising of the sun on Beltane morning, in respect of the Celtic goddess

22 September 2012 SALVATIONIST

of fertility. Setting aside the worshipping of other gods as an issue that Salvationists would clearly dispute, there is also the element of ‘the environment’ being worshipped as an entity in itself.

This is precisely the sort of concern Paul expressed in Romans 1:25: ‘They… worshipped and served created things’ (all quotations from New International Version).

Paul himself was raised in a monotheistic culture, yet he became an evangelist to a largely pagan world. In Acts 10 Cornelius, a former pagan (as a Roman soldier he would have worshipped Mithras or Mars), was directed to proactively seek contact with Christians.

The story of Cornelius reminds us that God rewards those who seek sincerely after truth. Matthew 7:7 confirms this: ‘Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find’. In a world where spirituality can take on any number of different interpretations, this text remains unchanged as our encouragement in evangelism.

The challenge to Salvationists is that we prepare our meetings and activities to offer a welcome to the likes of Cornelius and to help them encounter Jesus Christ. How might we, for example, adapt our traditional Harvest festivals to make them ‘pagan-seekerfriendly’?

Many pagans might in fact be potential prodigals inasmuch as they were raised in the Church but became disillusioned. The ‘faith leap’ from paganism to a personal encounter with Christ may not be all that wide. Our responsibility is to preach the Saviour and pray for their enlightenment. Q Q Kevin worships at Cardiff Cathays

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

BIBLE STUDY

Muck and glory Major Rosemary Dawson considers digging for victory

B

LUE skies. Warm sunshine.

Fields of corn waving gently in the breeze. Ripe summer fruits and vegetables ready for picking…

This idyllic image of Harvest couldn’t be further from the actual truth. Ask any farmer or gardener!

This year, plants and crops have struggled to know which season they’re in. First they were frozen, then scorched, then frostbitten, flooded or washed away altogether. Here in East Anglia – ‘Britain’s bread basket’ – many seasonal crops are in short supply or late in season.

As the farmer at our local shop commented: ‘All we can do is prepare the ground, plant the seedlings and hope that nature will remember to do the rest.’

Harvest doesn’t just ‘happen’. Whether farm, allotment or garden, it begins with preparation and hard graft. Sowing any seed in poor soil covered with weeds or stones does not produce much reward, as Jesus pointed out in the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:3–23). Note that it was the seed which fell on good soil – presumably ground that had first been cleared and well dug – that germinated and grew to produce a good crop.

In the parable of the fig tree (Luke 13:6–9), Jesus again draws attention to the importance of growing conditions.

Fig trees usually grew well in poor soil, but this one – growing in a vineyard – had not produced any fruit in three years, the normal time for a tree to reach maturity. Its owner, understandably, was peeved with its lack of progress and wanted it cut down. But the vineyard keeper suggested giving it another chance: ‘Leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilise

it deserve another chance? Maybe it requires more effort, not less. Maybe ‘the ground’ around the activity needs to be dug over more thoroughly. Digging can produce treasure – and not always the edible kind!

A proud gardener laid some freshly dug vegetables still covered with soil on the pristine Harvest Festival display. When it was politely suggested that she should have cleaned them first, she replied, ‘Isn’t that what it’s all about – muck and glory?’

Sometimes we don’t want the muck, but we certainly want the glory!

At the onset of the Second World War, parks and gardens were dug up in order to help feed a nation suddenly devoid of imported goods. By 1943 a million tonnes of vegetables were being produced.

The wartime slogan ‘Dig For Victory’ is currently being put to the test in a BBC television documentary series – even to the extent of harvesting at night. For those wearying of all that relentless physical toil, another wartime poster carried the maxim ‘Dig On For Victory’.

We find the same message in Galatians 6:6–10: ‘The one who plants in response to God, letting God’s Spirit do the growth work in him, harvests a crop of real life, eternal life… At the right time we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit’ (The Message). Or, as J. B. Phillips writes: ‘Let us not grow tired of doing good, for, unless we throw in our hand, the ultimate harvest is assured.’

If we plant an apple tree, we expect to grow apples. If we plant a banana tree, we expect to grow bananas. If we plant good, honest, Christian truths within the lives of adults and children and back them up with the example of holy living that we see in Jesus, then we must have faith to believe that, in God’s good time, we will ‘grow’ new Christians.

We can’t get the glory without getting our hands dirty. But those weary in well-doing, toiling away faithfully without much sign of progress, can take heart from God’s promise: ‘The ultimate harvest is assured.’

‘We can’t get the glory without getting our hands dirty’

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down’ (vv 8 and 9 New International Version).

Could this be a timely word for a current evangelism project or corps activity that seems to have run out of steam, helpers and enthusiasm? It can be too easy to finish something that’s hit a quiet period, or isn’t seen to be producing results. Our quick-fix timescale for expected results might not line up with God’s own ‘use-by’ date.

Like the tree in the parable, does

FOR REFLECTION Read SASB 930 and consider: Q Have we done our groundwork?

Q Are we sowing the right seed in the right place?

Q Do we need to dig deeper in order to claim victory? Q

SALVATIONIST 22 September 2012

15

NEW COMMITMENTS

Martin Wightman Soldier TAVISTOCK MARTIN and his wife, Joyce, have attended church for many years.

Martin played the organ at the Methodist church in Plymouth until retiring last year. Joyce worshipped at Plymouth Congress Hall, but visits to family in Tavistock often took them to the corps. Since retiring as the church organist, Martin has felt at home at the Army and prayerfully and thoughtfully considered soldiership. Recruiting Sergeant Lieut-Colonel Joan Williams presented Martin with the soldier’s covenant and he was enrolled by former corps officers Major Carol Lockhart and Captain Penny Sullivan. – C. L.

Michael McTighe Soldier Jayne McTighe Adherent member BARGOED MICHAEL returned to the Army after many years away. He is seriously ill but expressed a desire to become a soldier again. Jayne, his wife, wanted to become an adherent member. As Michael is too ill to attend meetings, corps officer Captain Tracy Jackson carried out his enrolment and Jayne’s welcome as an adherent member in their home, witnessed by Recruiting Sergeant Margaret Screen and Corps Treasurer Rodney Screen. – T. J.

Emily Cobb Adherent member SHIPLEY EMILY grew up in the corps and confirmed her faith in the Lord by becoming an adherent member. She is the lead singer in the worship group and blesses the congregation with her lovely voice. She was welcomed by corps officer Major Reg Melton. – R. M.

Shaun Jones Rupert Coulson Adherent members MALVERN SHAUN was invited to the Army by some Salvationist friends. He is now a regular attender each Sunday. He is learning to play an instrument and enjoys helping in the kids’ club.

Rupert appreciated the warm welcome when he joined the corps.

He decided to make a commitment feeling that The Salvation Army is his place of worship.

Shaun and Rupert were welcomed as adherent members by corps officer Major Mervin Baker. – M. B.

Bridget Stokes Adherent member BOGNOR REGIS DESPITE a strong desire to attend a place of worship, Bridget struggled to find a spiritual home. A meeting with a Norwegian Salvationist at a Christian retreat led to Bridget being welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Lieutenant Jonathan Rouffet. Bridget testified to God’s presence and guidance in her life. She volunteers at the homeless meal on Sunday evenings and enjoys playing baritone in the band. – M. R.

Laura Farrell

Abigail Dove Heather Love

Sarah Mitchell Deborah Mitchell Junior soldiers

Rachael Smith Lucas Smith Junior soldiers

LIVINGSTON LAURA, Sarah and Deborah all shared how God has been working in their lives and how with his help they want to make a difference in the world. The hall was full of people wanting to support and encourage the girls as they made their commitments. The congregation was challenged to help nurture the young people on their spiritual journey, as they developed their faith and their understanding of God. Corps officer Lieutenant Rachel Carpenter enrolled Laura, Sarah and Deborah – the first junior soldiers at the corps in more than 19 years. – K. C.

16

Alyson Hannam Adherent member HOYLAND COMMON ALYSON has attended the corps for more than a year, having returned to the Army after many years away. When the Thursday morning prayer group started she made arrangements to allow her to go before work. She feels this new commitment is the right path in her spiritual journey and was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Captain Julie Bovan. – V. B.

22 September 2012 SALVATIONIST

BOGNOR REGIS There was great celebration as family, friends and corps folk gathered to witness the enrolment of Abigail, Heather, Rachael and Lucas as junior soldiers. Corps officer Lieutenant Jonathan Rouffet enrolled the children and spoke about their enthusiasm and the example they are to others. The occasion was a great encouragement to those present that God is working through the corps. The congregation sang ‘Like A Candle Flame’ at the children’s request, while the children knelt at the mercy seat with their prayer partners to sign their promises. – M. R.

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

NEW COMMITMENTS

John Shayler Adherent member BATH CITADEL AS a young person John attended Sunday school. His links with the Army ceased for a number of years until he started to attend the corps luncheon club and then Sunday worship where he was made welcome.

He inquired about membership and, after completing the preparation course, made his commitment.

Corps officer Major Andrew Diaper-Clausen welcomed John as an adherent member. – C. A.

Doug French Brian Betts Soldiers FELIXSTOWE WHEN Doug and his family started to attend worship two years ago, it was the start of a life-changing journey.

A bank teller encouraged Brian to attend an Alpha course. When he entered the hall he found friendship and faith. He testified that when bereaved of his wife he felt that his life was all behind him.

He now realises that he has a future and wants to share the good news.

Former corps officer Captain Allister Versfeld enrolled Doug and Captain Kathleen Versfeld (both Peterborough Citadel) enrolled Brian. – A. V.

Les Chambers Nicola Chambers Soldiers WAKEFIELD SHORTLY after attending New Horizons last year, Les and Nicola returned to worship and received a warm welcome. Les testified that after a long and difficult journey he was where God wanted him to be.

He expressed his testimony by singing ‘Someone Cares’. Nicola spoke of the security of knowing that she is in God’s hands.

Corps officer Major Colin Stevens reinstated Les and Nicola as soldiers. – C. S.

Pat Hayson Soldier BRIXHAM FRIENDS invited Pat to the coffee morning and luncheon club.

A few weeks later she began attending the over-50 club, café church and social evenings. Pat became an adherent member but soon wanted to make a further commitment. She testified that although she had a wonderful family and friends, she needed a renewed faith in Christ.

Corps officer Major Francis Frost enrolled Pat as a soldier.

– F. F.

Godwin Chikopa Anmoi Hans Kumar Junior soldiers LEICESTER CENTRAL GODWIN and Anmoi were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Major Rudi Bruinewoud. Both are from Salvationist families, with roots in Zimbabwe and India, respectively. – R. B.

Ann-Louise Davies Junior soldier YEOVIL ANN-LOUISE was supported by friends and family when she was enrolled as a junior soldier by her grandmother, Major Barbara Davies. Ann-Louise loves playing tenor horn in the YP band and singing with the singing company. – C. W.

Mandla Chigogwana Nathan Ravikumar Junior soldiers SLOUGH MANDLA and Nathan attend the corps with their families. They recently went to the divisional children’s camp and particularly enjoyed the sporting activities and chocolate.

Corps officer Lieutenant Marie Burr enrolled Mandla and Nathan as junior soldiers. – J. W.

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

Bethany Taylor Junior soldier COLCHESTER CITADEL BETHANY started to attend the corps 18 months ago with her mother, sister and grandparents. After completing preparation classes she wanted to be a junior soldier.

When corps officer Major David House enrolled her as a junior soldier she read her promise with confidence and signed it at the mercy seat with Major Margaret House. – M. H.

Christian Luhinzo Adou Ntantchou Coulibally Junior soldiers NEWCASTLE CITY TEMPLE THERESE, Christian’s mum, came to England eight years ago after leaving the Democratic Republic of Congo. Christian was born in Newcastle upon Tyne and has loved being part of the corps since his dedication to God in 2005.

Adou’s mum, Evelyne, fled to the UK from Cameroon when pregnant with him. Evelyne’s introduction to The Salvation Army was a turning point and she became a soldier and Adou was dedicated to God. Both boys love going to the Army and are learning to sing and play instruments. They were enrolled by corps officer Major Fiona Mugford. – B. I.

SALVATIONIST 22 September 2012

17

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTED Effective 1 August: Major Sheila Biddle, Chaplain, Cedar House Lifehouse, Newcastle upon Tyne.

Effective 16 August: Lieutenant Naomi Clifton, additional appointment, Practitioner Tutor, School For Officer Training, William Booth College; Major Sheila Dunkinson, additional appointment, Practitioner Tutor, SFOT, WBC. Effective 1 September: Major John Swan, Chaplain, Strathmore Lodge and Burnside Mill Lifehouses, Dundee.

Effective 6 September: Captain Nicola Watson, additional appointment, Chaplain, Shepherd’s Green Lifehouse, Birmingham.

Effective 4 October: Captain Valerie Morgan, Haverhill.

Effective 1 November: Captain Lynne Clifton, Associate Officer, Maidstone.

Effective 8 November: Captain Sheila Eade, Forestdale; Majors Dawn and Graham Mizon, Regent Hall.

Effective 29 November: Majors Ian and Sally McBride, Belfast Citadel.

TRANSFERRED Effective 24 January 2013: Captains Barbara and Bryan Lang from Southern Africa to UKT, to be corps officers, Cirencester.

MARRIAGE Bandsman/Songster Karl Taylor to Heidi Betterton at Stockport Citadel by Lieutenants Jeremy and Wendy Ferguson-Smith.

Gloucester; William and Mrs Sheena Esslemont, Reading Central (29 September); Bandsman Derek and HLS/Songster Mrs Doreen Porter, Oakengates (29 September); Kenneth and Mrs Maureen Golby, Leek (29 September); Peter and Mrs Irene Gumsley, Doncaster.

DEDICATED TO GOD Isabelle Lynda-Jay, daughter of Saren and Catherine Roberts, at Knottingley by Lieutenant Sandra Chamberlain; William Jakob, son of Susan Kemp, at Eastbourne Citadel by Major David Squirrell; Owen William Allen, son of Robert and Wendy Holliday, at Easington Colliery by Major Sheila Leonard.

BEREAVED Captain Andrew Bale, Rayleigh, Rosalind Yalden, USA Western, and Gillian Case, Leighton Buzzard, of their father Lieut-Colonel Malcolm Bale, Major Dodie Brevitt and Brenda Applebee of their brother; Songster Hilda Taylor, Failsworth, of her husband Songster Roy Taylor; Andrew Williams, Hadleigh Temple, of his wife Anita; CSM Malcolm Dalby, Filey, of his wife Pauline.

RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: Mrs Major Eileen Spriggs, Stapleford (80 on 28 September).

PROMOTED TO GLORY Mildred Burns, Willenhall; B/S/Reservist Eddie Evans, Birmingham Citadel; Ena Lawson, Canterbury.

Lieut-Colonel Malcolm Bale from Leighton Buzzard on 9 September.

Lieut-Colonel Joy Bale lives in Leighton Buzzard.

TRIBUTES AUXILIARY-CAPTAIN IVOR DARTNALL-SMITH IVOR started attending The Salvation Army in 1959, after his children witnessed an open-air meeting on Weymouth beach and subsequently started going to Sunday school. A master builder by trade, he worked hard to support his wife, Mavis, and their six children.

After moving to Winchester, both he and Mavis realised that God was calling them to full-time service within the Army. They were accepted as envoys and posted to Filey in 1967. Following their promotion to auxiliarycaptains and further corps appointments, Ivor felt that God was calling him to serve overseas. During this time he attended a meeting, in which the then Commissioner Eva Burrows said to him: ‘If you know anything about building work, you are needed overseas.’ Ivor knew that this was indeed a sign from God. In 1975 he was appointed Superintendent of the Evangeline Booth Leprosy Hospital at Madras in India, where he taught many leprosy patients a trade in bricklaying. They used their new skills to build a wall around the hospital compound, covering many acres.

While in India there was a devastating earthquake and a tidal wave. Ivor’s dedicated relief work helped to save hundreds of lives.

The couple returned to the UK for a final appointment at Portland British Red Shield Services before retirement in 1982.

The captain suffered from Charcot-MarieTooth, a hereditary disease affecting the muscles and causing mobility impairment.

Most of his children have also been affected by the disease. In 1986 he felt compelled to start a UK support group for fellow sufferers; this has continued to flourish and is now a registered charity. Although ill-health forced him to resign from its committee, he contin-

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond: Ron and Mrs Violet Pyrah, Blackpool Citadel (24 September).

Golden: Peter and Songster Mrs Rosemary Curle (15 September), Bandsman George and Songster Mrs Mary Hunt (22 September), all

Major Mrs Madge Engene from Enfield on 10 September.

A son, Mr Geir Engene, lives in London.

ENGAGEMENTS

Sat Sun 30; Czech Republic (All Europe Congress), Th 11 Oct - Mon 15

Commissioners Amos and Rosemary Makina: Malawi, Fri 14 Sep - Sat 22

THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: William Booth College (welcome to cadets), Sat Sun 30 Sep; West Scotland (divisional officers retreat), Mon 1 Oct - Wed 3; Territorial Advisory Council, Fri 5 - Sun 7; Czech Republic (All Europe Congress), Th 11 - Mon 15

Commissioners Robert and Janet Street: Sunbury Court (General’s Consultative Council), Mon 24 Sep - Th 27; International Doctrine Council, Mon 1 Oct - 3 Wed*

GENERAL LINDA BOND: Sunbury Court (General’s Consultative Council), Mon 24 Sep - Th 27; UK, East Midlands, Fri 5 Oct - Sun 7; Czech Republic (All Europe Congress), Th 11 - Mon 15; UK, Nazarene Theological College, Manchester, Sat 20 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER BARRY SWANSON) AND COMMISSIONER SUE SWANSON: Sunbury Court (General’s Consultative Council), Mon 24 Sep - Th 27; India South Eastern, Mon 1 Oct - Sun 7**; UK, London South-East (divisional adult and family rally), Wed 10**; ICO, Th 11 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANDRÉ COX) AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: Northlands Lifehouse, Cardiff (opening), Wed 26 Sep; William Booth College (welcome to cadets),

18

International Staff Band: Sheringham, Sat Sun 30 Sep

Commissioner William Cochrane: UK, Cannock, Sat Sun 23 Sep; Sunbury Court (General’s Consultative Council), Mon 24 Wed 26

*wife will not accompany **husband will not accompany

Commissioners Alistair and Astrid Herring: Sunbury Court (General’s Consultative Council), Mon 24 Sep - Th 27; Hong Kong, Mon 1 Oct Wed 3; China Mission Task Force, Th Fri 5; China, Sat Sun 7

22 September 2012 SALVATIONIST

International Staff Songsters: Exeter, Sat Sun 23 Sep

ON THE AIR BBC Radio 2 (88–91 FM): Sunday Half Hour (8.30 pm) will feature Birmingham Citadel Band and Songsters on Sunday 23 September.

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

ANNOUNCEMENTS ued actively to raise funds using his skills as an artist, selling his paintings with proceeds going towards support and funding research.

Ivor was a devoted family man, who dearly loved his children and their families.

During recent years his health deteriorated but his faith remained as strong as ever.

The captain touched many lives, in India and the UK. Many people will remember his kindness, sincerity and wonderful sense of humour. His life and Christian values made all the difference to those he met. – R. B. BRIGADIER MRS HILDA COOK (FORMERLY HEATON) HILDA HEATON was born into a Salvationist family in Sheffield. Her parents lived out the highest principles of Salvationism. With this disciplined Christian upbringing it was perhaps not surprising that she entered the training college as a cadet in the 1939 Holdfast Session.

Commissioning was followed by corps appointments in London and Wales, interspersed with a period on the training college staff. Hilda was clearly well suited to this role, as she then spent seven years (from 1953) at the Army’s training college in South Africa. After her return she served in various secretarial appointments at IHQ – apart from a three-year period as matron at the International College for Officers – until retirement in 1976. This was spent in Strathaven, Ayr, Scarborough and Leeds Central.

The brigadier was immensely proud of her composer-brother, Wilfred Heaton. Christmas in Harrogate was always a special time, particularly when assembled round the grand piano to sing carols. Hilda and Wilfred played duets, and he annoyed Hilda intensely by changing key halfway through!

In 2004, at the age of 88, she announced her intention to marry for the first time. Her husband, Major Bill Cook, was then aged 94.

Sadly, they had only two and a half happy years together before Bill died in 2006. When her own health began to fail, she moved to Notintone House in Nottingham.

Laughter filled the air around her at all times. She often sang as she went about her chores. She lived her life to a strict Christian code which never wavered and was more interested in what she could give to others than what she might receive in return.The brigadier placed the highest value on two things that do not pass away: love and prayer. – B. S. HENRY TARAMASCO, BATH CITADEL HENRY was born in Argentina to officer parents and, as a corps cadet, brought shantytown children to Sunday school – having first washed and clothed them. After training in the 1954 Soulwinners Session and several UK appointments – where he met his

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

wife Berenice – he returned to Argentina, where they were married in 1958.

The couple served in Uruguay, Argentina, Peru and Chile, but Henry’s ministry eventually took its toll on his health. He returned to England and stepped away from full-time service, later working at social service centres in Birmingham, Greenock and Whitechapel.

In retirement Henry became a much-loved and respected soldier and prayer warrior at Bath Citadel, taking responsibility for the prayer fellowship. Despite poor health he remained a true soul-winner till the end. – B. T. MRS JANE (JENNY) PAGE, ABERDEEN CITADEL BORN into a Salvationist family in Dundee, Jenny lived in Findochty during the war. After her return she married Norrie and was a loving wife, a caring mother to their four sons and a proud grandmother and great-grandmother.

During frequent moves relating to Norrie’s career, Jenny gave varied service and support to many features of corps life. In retirement they moved to Aberdeen Citadel, where Jenny served for a total of 33 years.

Wheelchair-bound and suffering recent poor health, she attended Sunday meetings and other events, endeavouring to be a sincere and active Christian. Many found her commitment and practical assistance a source of inspiration and encouragement.

She is missed by her family and many friends. – M. P. JEFFREY ATHERTON, BURNLEY PROMOTED to Glory aged 70, Jeff attended Lamberhead Green as a boy and later became band sergeant and YPSM. In 1974 he married Ruth and moved to Burnley, where they had two children, Lynne and Paul, and Jeff became organising secretary and YPSM. In 1977 the couple joined the Joyful Evangelists Session. Unfortunately ill-health prevented completion of training. This was a great disappointment, but the Lord provided another avenue of service – as divisional envoy at Colne – until a further health breakdown. Although confined to bed for many years, Jeff remained a joyful evangelist and witnessed to many by means of his computer.

Jeff was loved by all who came into contact with him and is greatly missed. – R. A. PETER PALLANT, NORWICH CITADEL BORN in Diss in 1930, Peter worked for the Automobile Association for many years. Initially he joined the Methodist Church before joining the Church of England

at Norwich Cathedral. He became a Salvationist at Norwich Citadel in the mid-1980s and was subsequently appointed corps public relations secretary.

Peter helped raise the corps profile by visiting schools and women’s groups and becoming a Rotarian. He played a key fundraising role in the development of an unemployment programme, an elderly day-care facility in the new community centre and the Toys and Tins Christmas Appeal. He was also a songster.

After he became a Salvationist, Peter’s uniform was his expression of ‘sacrament’.

He was promoted to Glory after a short illness. – B. C. MRS JEAN MACDONALD, RUTHERGLEN BORN in 1916, Jean was introduced to the Army through her mother’s home league membership and her father becoming hall keeper at Gorbals.

She became a soldier in 1932, giving steadfast service as company guard and songster before moving to Rutherglen when the corps closed in the 1960s.

Jean worked as a florist for many years and happily baked for coffee mornings or sales of work. Other hobbies included knitting and crocheting.

A good listener to those experiencing troubled times and a great encourager of young people, she was very proud that two of her great-grandchildren were also in the Army.

Jean died peacefully after a short illness, borne with dignity. She leaves a son, two grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

– D. M. VICTORIA HEWISON, NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL IN 1984 at the age of three, Victoria first came into the corps fellowship from Chatham Corps with her parents. Despite severe congenital problems, which caused her to spend much of her life in a wheelchair, she quickly captured everyone’s heart with her radiant smile and sunny nature.

She joined the primary and later became a junior soldier. She loved her time in the singing company and her love of Army vocal music continued throughout her short life.

Latterly her family moved some miles out of town and although she was not able to attend regularly she did so whenever she could – even when feeling unwell.

She was affectionate and friendly and is sadly missed by all who knew her. – G. S. CORRECTION

Book Of The Week review, Chalk Farm Band Of The Salvation Army – A Pictorial History, published in Salvationist on 8 September, the contact email address should read sgotobed@aol.com

SALVATIONIST 22 September 2012

19

ADVERTISEMENTS

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

SALVATIONIST 22 SEPTEMBER 2012

20-23

A WONDERFUL HERITAGE Dudley Bright (Regent Hall) reviews the CD Heritage Series Volume 4 – Music From The 1960s by the International Staff Band When Leslie Condon wrote ‘The Present Age’ in 1968 he was speaking directly to his time. The 1960s were a decade of change; long-held beliefs and values were being swept away, restrictions and boundaries were crumbling and there was an insatiable demand for the new and innovative. Condon’s music was of and for its time, displaying his ability to create new sounds and colours, yet he was speaking an age-old message that, ever since, has moved and touched many.

Surprisingly, since his first published march in 1947, only one other piece predated the 1960s. Then he burst into the front rank of Army composers with, among others, the four pieces recorded on this fourth instalment of the ISB’s Heritage Series. Cleverly designed, challenging to play and exciting to listen to, ‘The Call Of The Righteous’, along with the festival march ‘Celebration’, surely has a permanent place in our band repertoire.

Less well known is ‘In Wonder Beholding’, an example of music whose natural habitat was the Sunday evening salvation meeting, alas now almost extinct. This kind of composition is little without knowledge of its associated words. Condon carefully builds his rhetoric towards a climax declaiming ‘Amazing love! How can it be that thou, my God, shouldst die for me?’ with the whispered reply, ‘Can you wonder?’

Likewise, an undoubted classic in the same form is Eric Ball’s ‘Songs In Exile’, which sings eloquently even through half-remembered lyrics such as ‘With Jesus my Saviour, I’m the child of a King’.

One might suggest that these rarely played gems may become of service in aiding private devotions. Ray SteadmanAllen’s enlightening sleeve notes suggest that Ball’s language here is Edwardian but persuasive. The composer none-the-less did move, if a little cautiously, with the times; witness the final bars of the scintillating cornet and trombone feature ‘Never Give Up’ or the technically demanding ‘Song Of Courage’.

Based on Eric Ball’s wartime song ‘A Prayer For Courage’, this tone poem is an emotional rollercoaster set against a tumultuous background. As absolute music it is thrilling. With its textual associations it is profound.

Bob Getz, Emil Soderstrom’s biographer, names him the inventor of the ‘energy march’; ‘California’ is certainly in that category. Celebrating his move out west, the composer described it as ‘a march to end all marches’ with a terrific gearshift, in the midst of the trio section, from Eb to G major, bringing undoubted elation to the words ‘Oh, oh, oh, how good is the Lord!’

Fellow Swedish-born American Erik Leidzen has (with Eric Ball) been present since the first instalment of this absorbing series. ‘None Other Name’ and ‘Invincible Army’ see him at the peak of his powers just months before his promotion to Glory in 1962. The former, modestly classified as a selection, skilfully weaves six related songs into a significant and substantial work of under eight minutes. That Leidzen’s lovely cornet solo ‘Songs In The Heart’ is omitted might be explained by its imminent release elsewhere.

And so the list continues, each track included with much justification. I’m loathe not to detail my admiration for ‘The Holy War’ – the most iconic work included, but those thoughts too, are due to be published elsewhere. Merely to quote then Staff Bandmaster Lieut-Colonel Bernard Adams who referred to the work’s ‘almost excessive demands’.

Present-day bandmaster, Stephen Cobb, is to be congratulated on his insight in preparing this series and finding time to fit a demanding recording into the band’s busy schedule.

That the second CD is made up solely of reissues only serves to underline the consistency of these dedicated musicians over the last 12 years. The staff bandmaster’s direction is always carefully considered and expressive without sentimentality. Those who remember the Sixties will revel not in nostalgia but in marvelling at the richness of the decade’s musical heritage and those with fewer grey hairs might challenge them to recall the words which raise this music from being merely impressive and turns the listener’s heart towards God.

‘Condon carefully builds his rhetoric towards a climax declaiming “Amazing love!

How can it be that thou, my God, shouldst die for me?” with the whispered reply, “Can you wonder?”

Q Heritage Series Volume 4 is available from SP&S priced £16.95 (plus £2.95 postage and packing) or can be downloaded for £14.99 from spstunes.com