Salvationist 23 nov 2013 by The Salvation Army UK and Ireland

SALVATIONIST

Essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army // www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 23 November 2013 // No. 1425 // Price 60p // Also available digitally

S E RV I N G SUFFERING HUMANITY Page 5

CONTENTS 3.

FROM THE EDITOR

4. PAPERS This week’s quotes from the papers and From the archives 5. – 9. NEWS The Philippines // Norwich Cathedral // Skewen // Midsomer Norton // Bourne // Northampton Central // Salisbury // Lockerbie // Cheltenham Citadel // Wellingborough // Bolton Citadel // Bristol Easton // Regent Hall // Plymouth Exeter Hall Whitleigh // Detmold // Stockton // Worthing // St Helier // Cardiff East // Worcester // Glasgow City Centre // Penarth // Lincoln // William Hunter House, Glasgow // Lymington // Braintree // 8.

12.

NEW TESTAMENT BIBLE READING CHALLENGE

10. & 11. More than clothing

FEATURE

12. & 13. More than just a gift

FEATURE

14. VIEWPOINT Heritage – the past in the future 15. Devoted...

BIBLE STUDY

16. & 17. NEW COMMITMENTS 18. & 19.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

20. Walking In White Gagging Jesus

REVIEWS

21. – 23.

ADVERTS

24.

THROUGH THE WEEK WITH SALVATIONIST

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated 2

Salvationist 23 November 2013

FROM THE EDITOR

JUST THE GIFT THE Christmas countdown is on – shops are filled with gifts and some people will spend hours jostling through crowds to find the perfect present. Others will choose to avoid the hassle and shop online, hoping that everything arrives in time. Retailers predict that the must-have children’s presents for 2013 include a robotic puppy, nerf gun, robo fish, flying fairies, furbies and tablets for tots to teens – in fact they expect to sell more that one million tablets to children by the end of the year. It’s hardly surprising to discover that, on average, parents will be spending £312 per child and paying for it well into the new year. In view of this, I’m glad the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has chosen to speak out about present buying (see page 4). I don’t think for one moment he is trying to spoil everyone’s Christmas – quite the opposite; he wants families to experience the very best time and avoid the tensions of how to pay for it all. How I thank God for church leaders who are the voice of reason in a sometimes crazy world. On your present list you may have names of people who seem to have everything – I think I’m possibly one of those people! Every year you struggle to find the right gift for them. One option could be Just Gifts. This year’s catalogue issued by Salvation Army International Development (UK) offers a diverse range of gifts at varying prices including the miracle moringa tree, strawberry plants, goats, chickens, cement and water systems, all of which will make a difference to people’s lives in some of the poorest countries of the world. On pages 12 and 13 Faith Kroeker-Maus writes about the uses of the moringa tree. Who would have thought that a tree could have so many beneficial qualities? Some of you will do your Christmas shopping at SP&S. Once again there is a wide range of gifts including CDs and

SALVATIONIST GENERAL INQUIRIES (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Laura Barker – (tel) 020 7367 4893 Kersten Rieder – (tel) 020 7367 4894 Captain Andrew Stone – (tel) 020 7367 4892 DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter – (tel) 020 7367 4895 DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza – (tel) 020 7367 4896 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Archie Bagnall – (tel) 020 7367 4883 ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino – (tel) 020 7367 4881

books. Recently, I made my first visit to SATCoL, Wellingborough (see pages 10 and 11). I was amazed at the scale of operations there and at the nearby clothes recycling plant – a well-run business that helps to fund mission and share expertise and resources within the UK and beyond. As I write, my heart is heavy for the Philippines in the aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan. The scale of destruction, in terms of human life and infrastructure, is hard to imagine – but the raw feelings of grieving, injured and hungry people are all too evident. Help is on its way, and can’t arrive soon enough for those who are suffering. General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox have called upon us to pray for the people, for Territorial Commander Colonel Wayne Maxwell and the relief teams and to support the Army’s ministry, which is about immediate relief and restoring people’s lives – a work that will continue for much longer. More information can be found on page 5.

MAJOR JANE KIMBERLEY

ADVERTISING (tel) 020 7367 4895 (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 DIGITAL SALVATIONIST Find Salvationist on Facebook www.facebook.com/salvationistonline

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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 Wyndeham Grange, Southwick. © André Cox, General of The Salvation Army, 2013. 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.

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN (tel) 020 7367 4500 (tel) 0845 634 0101

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL André Cox TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Clive Adams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Martin Hill

Salvationist 23 November 2013

PAPERS

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS SHOCK AFTER TYPHOON HAIYAN

Christian relief organisations are mounting massive operations to assist the victims of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines and the Archbishop of Canterbury has said he is ‘deeply shocked and saddened to hear the loss of thousands of lives and of the suffering caused to millions by the storm’. The Archbishop said the Church is praying for the ‘most vulnerable in this crisis’ and will ‘stand beside the people of the Philippines’. The Church of England Newspaper

BIBLE DRAMA TO HIT UK TV

The hit United States TV series The Bible is to be shown in the UK… on Channel 5 during December, although the station’s schedules have yet to be finalised. A DVD of the series is to be released on 26 December. Church Times

HAVE A MODEST CHRISTMAS, ADVISES WELBY The Archbishop of Canterbury has warned against spending huge amounts of money trying to ‘buy love’ by giving lavish Christmas presents. The Most Rev Justin Welby said that far from strengthening relationships, splashing out on

expensive presents could put them under intolerable pressure because of later cash shortage. ‘Giving at Christmas reflects the generosity of God,’ he said. ‘So be generous in a way that shows love and affection… Save up for the Christmas budget, be sensible, don’t put pressure on your finances – don’t make your life miserable with Christmas.’ Speaking to Martin Lewis, the money advice expert, Archbishop Welby… said that it had become a cliché to complain about the materialism of Christmas but insisted that the ‘the secular over-the-topness, everything you have to have… puts pressure on relationships’. The Times

PEERS OPPOSE ASSISTED-DYING BILL Parliament will write a ‘blank cheque’ for euthanasia if it backs proposals to legalise assisted dying, three senior peers have warned. In their report Assisted Dying And The Law Baroness Butler-Sloss, Lord Carlile QC and Lord Brennan QC said that a Private Member’s Bill tabled by the former Lord Chancellor, Lord Falconer, would ‘fundamentally change’ the law on suicide by enabling some terminally ill patients to have access to drugs to end their lives. It lacked proper safeguards to help gauge whether or not a patient meets the criteria of eligibility, they warned. The Tablet

FROM THE ARCHIVES – TEN YEARS ON Musical looks back twelve decades A SERIES of events celebrating 120 years of Army witness in ABERTILLERY culminated in the presentation of In The Darkness, a musical written by Corps Youth Secretary Julia Lewis and corps RIÀFHU 0DMRU *UDQYLOOH 0\HUV The musical tells the story of how the corps began. A cast of corps members and people linked to the community programme performed the musical (see picture) to a capacity audience in Abertillery Community Theatre. Welsh Assembly Member Peter Law and other civic dignitaries sent messages of encouragement. – A. B. News in ‘Salvationist’ dated 22 November 2003

Salvationist 23 November 2013

NEWS Salvationists respond quickly to give aid and comfort

Water distribution at Tacloban airport

THE PHILIPPINES AS the rest of the world struggled to reach the victims of Typhoon Haiyan with aid, Salvationists who live in some of the worst affected areas were out in their communities giving what help they could. Corps in Leyte and the Visayas Islands distributed all the food from their welfare supplies. Across the country seven tonnes of food was prepared and ready for distribution within five days of the disaster. At the same time, the first Army team reached the devastated city of Tacloban, sleeping in the corps hall, ready to give out food and provide essential medical supplies. Many people waited for evacuation at Tacloban airport, which was badly damaged by the typhoon. Salvation Army relief teams served refreshments and water to people gathered there. The Army also spread its assistance to communities that did not receive the same media coverage as Tacloban and Leyte Island. Many towns in Antique Province were battered by the typhoon with most homes in Tibiao, Barbasa and Bugasong damaged or destroyed. Corps in these communities worked with the Government’s Department of Social Welfare and Development to establish a project to provide food for 4,710 families. Meanwhile, Major Ronaldo Banlasan (La Paz Corps) visited communities on the island of Panay – where 196,361 families were struggling to recover from the typhoon. He arranged for the worst hit families to receive food packages. Across the whole affected area the Army used its extensive connections to organise road transport for food, water and other essentials. The distribution of goods, though, was only part of the response.

The teams focused on talking to and comforting the people they met. Even when rapid action was required, volunteers still sought to go beyond only providing for people’s physical needs. A caring spiritual element was a vital part of helping people who were distressed and traumatised. The work of The Salvation Army – by people living in the Philippines, some of whom were themselves reported to be running short of food and water – was supported by the arrival of an international emergency team. Territorial Commander Colonel Wayne Maxwell said that he and his fellow Salvationists were hugely grateful for the strong support they had received from around the world. General André Cox said: ‘We pray for Colonel Maxwell and

the officers, Salvationists and friends who have been affected by this disaster. Please join us as, together, we lift up those who are suffering in the Philippines. ‘I would also invite donors and friends around the world to support the relief effort by making a donation.’

Donations can be made online by visiting www.salvationarmy .org.uk/Philippines-DisasterAppeal, by card payment (call 0800 473 0088), or by cheque to The Salvation Army (Philippines Appeal), FREEPOST KE3466, London SE1 6BP. – A. R.

Major Ronaldo Banlasan surveys the damage in Iloilo Province on the island of Panay

A grounded ship in Tacloban

Salvationist 23 November 2013

NEWS

Fundraising success for Toys and Tins appeal

At Bourne, youth worker Vicky Elson and Corps Secretary

NORWICH CATHEDRAL

Peterborough Building Society for the Impact Youth Centre

ANGLIA Division held a fundraising concert for the Toys and Tins appeal. BBC Look East and Radio Norfolk presenter David Whiteley compèred the evening with humour and style. Guests included harpist Zoe Rasmussen, Norwich High School for Girls Chamber Choir and Norwich Citadel Band. The varied pro-

gramme featured music of historic and modern eras from Zoe, classical and religious anthems from the choir and a selection of music by established and contemporary writers from the band. – M. C.

NORTHAMPTON CENTRAL: During songster weekend Jo Halcrow delighted the congregation with flute solos and former songster pianist Major Sandra Frost (Glebe Court Care Home, London) represented past members. Reservists and former songsters joined with present members to contribute ‘Singing In The Heavenly Choir’. – G. S.

SALISBURY: Territorial Lay Evangelists Jenny and Mike Clark led Harvest celebrations. On Saturday, corps folk enjoyed an evening of supper, song and testimony. After a challenging Sunday message, many knelt at the mercy seat in response. The weekend concluded with an afternoon of praise and worship. – P. C.

MIDSOMER NORTON: Corps folk raised £200 from a 3-mile sponsored walk for Andy Peddle’s walkathon in support of the Army’s work for homeless people and for anti-human trafficking. – S. R.

LOCKERBIE: Alistair and Julie Taylor (both Hamilton) entertained with piano and vocal items, respectively, in a musical evening. Julie concluded the event with a thought based on Psalm 23. – K. R.

BOLTON CITADEL: Members and friends enjoyed an afternoon tea reminiscent of the 1940s. The catering was courtesy of Buttercups and Daisies, a small business run by a member of the songsters. The event raised £150 for corps funds. – G. F.

SKEWEN: Majors Martyn and Denise Clements (Tenby) led Har vest meetings. In her message, Major Clements spoke on the parable of the mustard seed, comparing this to planting seeds for church growth. In the evening meeting Major Martyn Clements spoke about Zacchaeus, encouraging those present to show people Jesus. Harvest celebrations concluded on Monday with a supper. – S. L. PORTSMOUTH NORTH: As a result of the Space Academy holiday club, six new children are attending Sunday school. The week included aerobics sessions, crafts, games, singing and a memory verse as they considered the story of Daniel. On the last day, children and parents enjoyed an outing to Butlins, Bognor Regis, and three families attended the meeting the following Sunday. – B. A. 6

Charles Green receive a cheque for £250 from Norwich and

SKEWEN: Swansea Gospel Male Voice Choir presented a concert at the corps, commencing with ‘Ye Gates’. The programme continued with song, testimony and Bible thoughts, concluding with ‘We’ll All Be There’. The evening raised £211 for The Big Collection. – S. L.

Peter Bone MP shares his life story, testimony and insights into his work as a Member of Parliament with corps officer Major Paul Church during café church at Wellingborough

Salvationist 23 November 2013

CHELTENHAM CITADEL: Jingle Tots celebrated Harvest by donating tinned and dry goods for food parcels. Corps officer Captain Mel Smith encouraged the children to be thankful for their favourite foods and shared the good news of the gospel through carving a pumpkin. – R. G.

NEWS

Corps member Sarah Redford presents a £400 award from the Drake Foundation, for her voluntary youth work, to Community and Youth Worker Terry Hendy for the youth and children’s room at Plymouth Exeter Hall Whitleigh

Concert raises funds for The Kenya Trust BRISTOL EASTON A CAPACITY congregation welcomed guests Charley Brighton (Staines), Redland High School Choir and Chamber Choir and South-Western Divisional Fellowship Band for the annual concert presented by The Kenya Trust. The event raised a record £5,509. The money will help fund a new health centre and dispensary attached to Maiani Corps (Kenya East). – H. B.

YP workers join with the young people at Regent Hall in the final moments of the YP anniversary; associate officer Major Richard Gaudion invited the congregation to pray for the YP work

STOCKTON: On the Friday before Remembrance Sunday Deputy Bandmaster John Appleby sounded Last Post and Reveille at a service in the Garden of Remembrance in the grounds of the parish church. Local dignitaries and a number of schoolchildren were present. – B. C.

Worthing Band leads a march through the town on Remembrance Sunday

Soldiers, veterans and their families unite at Remembrance service DETMOLD MAJORS Jonathan and Katrina Greetham (Red Shield Defence Services) shared the leadership of the 20th Armoured Brigade HQ remembrance service alongside the senior chaplain, Padre Alex Bennett. Later, the majors led a remembrance service in the red shield centre, supported by the Lippe branch of the Royal British Legion. It was well supported by soldiers and families, veterans and civilian employees from the garrison. Many placed a cross in the poppy garden in remembrance of lost friends and colleagues. Major Jonathan Greetham is pictured with serving and retired service personnel. – K. G. Salvationist 23 November 2013

NEWS

Knitting marathon success

WEEK 39 Monday 25 November 1 Timothy 1 – Paul encourages Timothy to oppose false teachers O v3: if Timothy is being given authority to ‘command certain people not to teach false doctrines’, does this mean that there was false teaching actually within the Church? O Is it possible for there to be teachers of false doctrines in the Church today? If so, are we to ignore it or confront it? O vv9–11: is there any act mentioned in this list which you would not consider to be a sin? If so, why? O vv15–17: Paul claims that he is a sinner saved through Christ. If he is the ‘worst’ and yet can be saved, what does this tell us about the other sins mentioned in vv9–11?

ST HELIER AS part of a More Than Gold project, corps folk accepted the challenge to knit and crochet 26 miles of wool into square blankets for those in need. Many people took part in producing more than 90 blankets, weighing 89 kilograms and amounting to 170 miles of wool – enough to go around Jersey four times. The blankets were presented to Rose Helie of the Mustard Seed Jersey charity, who will arrange for them to be sent to Romania. – L. W.

Tuesday 26 November 1 Timothy 2 – Timothy receives instructions on attitudes to worship O vv11–15: is Paul demonstrating sexism, or are these instructions based on Jewish traditions and order in worship? Can these verses be reconciled with modern worship? O v15: is Paul referring to the fact that Eve was an ancestor of Jesus Christ? Wednesday 27 November 1 Timothy 3 – Instructions for choosing overseers and deacons O vv1–13: do these verses describe you? Thursday 28 November 1 Timothy 4 – Timothy is encouraged to ‘watch his life and doctrine closely’ (v16) O vv7 and 8: Paul tells Timothy to train himself spiritually, just as you would physically. How is your spiritual ‘fitness’? Has your stamina and strength improved in the past 12 months? O v12: do you ever dismiss the advice and teaching of those younger than you? What does this verse say? O v16: could your ‘life and doctrine’ be rephrased as ‘holiness and belief ’? O Why does Paul think doctrine is so important? Is it important to you? Friday 29 November 1 Timothy 5 – Final instructions on how to treat those within the fellowship of believers O vv1 and 2: does this accurately reflect your attitude to others? O v8: how high a priority is the spiritual, physical and emotional welfare of your family and relatives?

Pupils and teachers from Red Rose School enjoy a visit to Cardiff East; corps officer Captain Paula Hubbard and Community Development Officer Tanyia Vermeulen spoke to them about the work at the centre

Shoppers in Worcester receive cupcakes and prayer cards from the corps to highlight human trafficking

Salvationist 23 November 2013

NEWS Salvationists join with Methodists for songsters’ visit LINCOLN

Radio Scotland gets messy GLASGOW CITY CENTRE

Harvest reminder of God’s faithfulness

THE weekend visit of Birmingham Citadel Songsters began with outdoor ministry in the city. Later, a festival included ‘Inhabit Your Praise’ and ‘The Heart Of Worship’ and people were challenged to think about their relationship with Jesus as a cross was carried through the hall. On Sunday corps folk joined in worship with the Central Methodist Church. The singing of ‘Make Me A Channel Of Your Peace’ brought an atmosphere of peace and reflection. Following further outdoor ministry on Sunday afternoon, Methodists and Salvationists enjoyed a ‘come and sing’ session. These songs were then included in the evening praise meeting. In conclusion, the home and visiting songsters united to sing ‘Total Praise’. – M. A.

BBC Radio Scotland staff attended Messy Church to record interviews. The young people learnt about the good Samaritan as they explored Going Deeper In Acts Of Kindness. Activities included making gifts – such as flowers, above – making packed lunches for the journey and colouring national flags. As a result of Messy Church, a family attended worship for the first time the following Sunday. – M. B.

HARVEST weekend began with a ploughman’s supper and a quiz on Saturday evening. One challenge included dressing two people like a scarecrow using only wallpaper (see picture). Former corps officers Majors Kim and Steve Wilson (Abergavenny) led Sunday meetings themed God’s Faithfulness To Us All. – C. P.

Ninety people enjoy the Harvest Festival tea at Lymington;

Braintree corps officer Lieutenant Rob Davis collects Harvest

Major Ray Begley (Boscombe) led the weekend and was joined

donations from Lyons Hall Primary School to use in food

by Christchurch Choral Group and Ringwood Band; Harvest

parcels for the community; he is pictured with two pupils and

gifts were donated to Booth House Lifehouse, Southampton

school chaplain Dennis Ivey

PENARTH

WILLIAM HUNTER LIFEHOUSE, GLASGOW: Lifehouse residents and staff, Glasgow City Centre corps members and DHQ staff competed in a quiz night. Quizmaster CSM Martyn Bellshaw led the fun evening, which helped to develop the links between the corps and the Lifehouse. – M. B.

Salvationist 23 November 2013

FEATURE

More than clothing Major Jane Kimberley visits SATCoL in Wellingborough

T a prominent site on the Denington Industrial Estate the Salvation Army red shield marks the business hub of SATCoL (Salvation Army Trading Company Limited) – a one-time factory building, now adapted to the Army’s needs with a staff team of 60. Recently SATCoL presented the territory with a cheque for £9.6million. Managing Director Trevor Caffull explained that the business has a £45million turnover, comprising £15million from the 180 charity shops, £3million from SP&S, World of Sound, British Bandsman and R. Smith and Co and £27million from sales of donated clothing. A partnership was forged with Kettering Textiles Limited 21 years ago, and The Salvation Army started to develop a chain of charity shops to fund frontline mission. Initially this was about collecting and sorting donated

SP&S sale day

Salvationist 23 November 2013

clothing from door-to-door collections and clothing banks so that it could be used to stock the shops.

‘‘

IN ADAPTING TO CHANGING TIMES, SATCOL CONTINUES TO SUPPORT MISSION AND PROVIDES A FIRST-CLASS SERVICE FOR ITS CUSTOMERS

’’

Today, clothing is still being collected but the time-consuming and costly operation of sorting clothing item by item no longer happens. Many people

choose to donate in person at the various shops meaning that just 3 per cent of collected clothing is used to top-up shop supplies. The remaining 97 per cent is packed into large 1-tonne bales and either stored in a warehouse at Kettering or loaded onto large 20-tonne trailers ready for shipping to customers in Eastern Europe where there is a strong demand for used clothing. Contracts made with customers are carefully managed by SATCoL and involve audit processes and written guarantees in order to avoid corruption and ensure that clothing is handled in an ethical manner, avoiding harm to the environment. As far possible everything is reworn or recycled and less than 0.2 per cent of collected materials including non-clothing items goes into landfill. SATCoL is keen to assist The Salvation Army in Eastern Europe establish its own clothing shops to generate much-needed funding, however there are various legal requirements to be satisfied before this can happen. At present SATCoL is helping to fund this process as it liaises with a partner territory. SATCoL also works closely with partner Salvation Army clothing operations in Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Switzlerland and The Netherlands. In April 2012 SATCoL acquired Kettering Textiles Limited, enabling it to run its own clothing collection service. Stock is provided from 6,300 clothing banks located around the UK. Many supermarkets are happy to work with SATCoL in this respect

because they see The Salvation Army as a trusted charity. Head of Clothing Collection Division Nigel Hanger will shortly retire and will be succeeded by Tony Hosking. His role will be to manage the clothing collection process that involves collectors who either fill static trailers, or vans if closer to Kettering, with bags of clothing that are taken to the warehouse for distribution. This operation is one of the largest of its kind in the UK. Vans and lorries deliver their loads to Kettering where clothing bags are gathered into large bales and loaded by forklift onto trailers. In another area non-clothing items are sorted and either packed for the shops or recycled. As the clothing and charity shop businesses have expanded, SATCoL has been keen to make sure that corps charity shops do not miss out. Head of Retail Operations Nick Morton has a wide experience of identifying and negotiating shop sites. He believes that presentation is important and would like to see more corps partnerships develop, believing that there is so much more SATCoL could do to support corps with the partnership scheme through which corps derive income by providing volunteers for the shops; 25 volunteer hours a week deliver £8,000 per annnum. In addition to this, a corps can use a media screen in the shop

Loading clothes at the warehouse

The uniform store

SATCoL charity shop, Nottingham

to share information. ‘One thing that other charity shops don’t have is the name of The Salvation Army above the door,’ Nick says. ‘And in areas without an Army presence, the shop could be an outreach opportunity.’ Recently SATCoL opened a furniture shop in Luton. Stock for this shop includes donations, from a major store, of furniture and returned electrical goods. These items are tested and repaired before being distributed to the shop. Another area of retail that is being tried at the moment is online selling. Shops identify any ‘treasures’ they receive, such as designer goods, and they are then sold online to achieve the best return. I discovered that there is far more to SATCoL than clothing. Trevor explained how, over the years, SP&S has had to adapt to changing times. A declining membership in the territory and changes in uniform wearing have

meant that demand for these ‘bread and butter’ items of the past has declined. Once uniforms would have been made by a UK supplier, but today – as in so World of Sound recording studios

many other areas of retail – they are produced in China by a supplier who is monitored for ethical standards by SATCoL. Plans are being introduced to ensure the quality of uniforms, which will be checked by the experienced eye of Quality Control Manager Debbie Spinney. Head of Central Operations Ken Kendall guided me around the large stock area, which is filled with shelves and rails. Although the retail shop floors are considerably smaller than in the past, telephone and online sales have increased and most are dealt with in a 30-hour turnaround. A lesser demand for uniforms meant that new markets needed to be found in which to operate. These include making brass band music and, more recently, choral music available to the wider market, publishing British Bandsman magazine, incorporating R. Smith and Co (distributors of sheet music for brass and wind bands) and producing recordings on site by World of Sound with purpose-built recording studios. In adapting to changing times, SATCoL continues to support mission and provides a first-class service for its customers. Salvationist 23 November 2013

FEATURE

More than just a gift Faith Kroeker-Maus, of Salvation Army International Development (UK), reflects on Christmas presents My thoughts turn to the people I met this year in Malawi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and how their lives are being vastly improved by the money given through JUST Gifts. Journey with me as I highlight the impact of two of the gifts on offer – moringa trees and literacy training materials – which take recipients so much further than any liferaft ever could.

BICYCLE, roller skates, a toy puppy when my parents wouldn’t let me have a real one – these are some of my most memorable Christmas presents. Then there were the more perplexing presents: the gigantic inflatable liferaft from my aunt, even though I lived in the middle of the American prairie without a body of water in sight. These days my list of gift recipients is growing while my ideas for unique gifts are waning. Not to mention the added expectations of delivering exceptional gifts across the Atlantic from exotic London. As tempting as it is to just buy liferafts for everyone and be done with it (maybe I could even use one to get home and save on the airfare!), this Christmas the JUST Gifts catalogue is challenging me to a higher standard. 12

Salvationist 23 November 2013

MIRACLE MORINGA In March, I visited The Salvation Army’s Bakidi Health Centre (DRC). This centre serves some of the poorest neighbourhoods in Kinshasa that are badly affected by malnutrition and overpopulation because of the 1998 war, which caused many people to become displaced. At Bakidi I experienced one of the most haunting moments of my life when the clinical workers tested several children for malnutrition – lifting clothing to show me their sharp bones and protruding bellies. Though I have visited many African clinics, I have never witnessed such harsh physical deterioration. The children’s frail bodies highlighted to me the absolute necessity of a miracle. The Salvation Army works with an association of young agricultural experts to tackle this desperate situation. Together they came up with a proposal to distribute moringa seedlings and train community members to grow trees, harvest seeds and leaves, prepare moringa leaf powder and use moringa products to fight malnutrition. Moringa is considered to be one of the earth’s miracle trees, as almost

every part can be used for food or has some other beneficial property. The leaves are dried, crushed and added to food or water; they contain amino acids, protein, minerals, and vitamins A, B and C. The seeds, after being dried and crushed, can also be used to purify water.

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IN MALAWI, THE ADULT STUDENTS...WERE OVERJOYED AT THE OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN BASIC LITERACY AND MATHS SKILLS... CROWDING ONTO HARD BENCHES FOUR TIMES A WEEK

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The Salvation Army has planted a demonstration plot of 200 moringa trees at the health centre and hopes to provide 10,000 trees to mothers, accompanied by training from community volunteers on the many uses of moringa. All of this is in an effort to reduce by 50 per cent the number of malnourished children and mothers who arrive at Bakidi. A lofty goal to be sure, but one I am confident we will achieve. READ ALL ABOUT IT Later in May, I travelled to rural Malawi to meet with members of Salvation

Moringa seeds

Bakidi health centre

Army Adult Literacy Schools. As I met with these students, I thought about when I learnt to read. Maybe you were a better child than me, but at first I really couldn’t be bothered to learn something so complicated. My poor mother worked with me for hours, until I finally caught the love of reading. In Malawi, the adult students showed none of my stubbornness; rather they were overjoyed at the opportunity to learn basic literacy and maths skills, even if it meant crowding onto hard benches four times a week. In fact, the schools were so popular that while the goal was to enrol 150 students, more than 400 students were attending six schools. Literacy skills and income generation go hand-in-hand, and so the course covers diverse topics such as business, food security, health, agriculture, first-aid and much more. These skills enable community members to start and maintain small businesses. ‘I own a grocery that sells the basics such as soap and sugar,’ Festa, a woman in one class shared with me. ‘Before the class I was having challenges with sums, but now I use these skills in my business.’ Students are also protected as consumers since they can now count and understand the change given back to them. Literacy paves the way for a more educated future generation. Literate parents and grandparents understand the importance of children completing school, and they are able to assist with homework. The words of one woman, Fannie John, particularly stuck with me: ‘Before I could not write my name,

Adult literacy training in Malawi

but now I can calculate and write my name. I can also pick out the different parts of a word and write words. I hope by the end of school that I will know everything. I am happy that when my children are reading I can help them. My children even brag about me saying: “My mother can read now”.’ JUST GIFTS THIS CHRISTMAS These are just two of many great examples of some of the real people

who can benefit from your JUST Gifts purchases. What could be a better gift this Christmas than spending £5 on a moringa tree to bring the miracle of nourishment, or £20 to provide enough teaching materials for a whole class? These and many other life-changing gifts are available through the JUST Gifts catalogue. To order, tel 020 7367 4777 or visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/justgifts

A demonstration plot of moringa trees

Salvationist 23 November 2013

VIEWPOINT

Heritage – the past in the future Richard Sheppard claims traditions must be relevant AS a nation, we are concerned with preserving our heritage. From castles to canals, motors to monasteries, investments of time and resources are lavishly applied to maintain and restore historical things to their former glory. The emphasis on preserving these artefacts is more than merely to satisfy nostalgic interest; more importantly, it is to focus our attention on historical features that established the foundations of life as we know it today. To discard this inheritance is to undermine the value of pioneering initiatives that will continue to build on this heritage for the benefit of future generations. The Salvation Army is rich in heritage. It started from the moment it was ordained by God to feature as a unique movement within the Christian Church. Initiatives were formulated to propagate its specific identity. Only a few years ago, General John Gowans coined the phrase, ‘to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity’ – but this has always been the Army’s mission. On a recent visit to the International Heritage Centre at William Booth College, I was reminded of the price that was paid to create a foothold for the Army’s establishment and early development. The right to march the streets and hold open-air meetings met with fierce opposition, often fuelled by the established Church, local councils and publicans who all had an interest in seeking to stifle unorthodox methods of evangelistic ministry. The display cases stand in silent tribute to the trailblazers who paid the price for our freedom – suffering personal trauma, injury and even imprisonment. 14

Salvationist 23 November 2013

Our heritage was born. By divine compulsion, the Army was ordained as an outgoing mission, resolved to meet the spiritual and physical needs of people ‘out there’, rather than expect them to come into our halls at their own volition. We are equipped to achieve this ministry. Our uniforms serve to maintain this high profile witness and availability to the public, who have come to trust us over many years of outgoing Christian endeavour. Their generous support of the Army is indicative of the high regard and affection in which the Movement is held. People are aware that we seek to portray Jesus in all aspects of his earthly ministry. Rich heritage indeed!

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WE SEEK TO PORTRAY JESUS IN ALL ASPECTS OF HIS EARTHLY MINISTRY

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The alternative to outgoing, evangelistic campaigns is that we retreat, incognito, into our citadels and our fervent songs of bringing down the Devil’s kingdom are stifled within the walls, rather than confronting the ravages of sin in the ‘darkness out there’! This way, we begin to dilute our identity. Understandably, along with other denominations, we are resolved to change in order to appear relevant to the community. However, in doing so there is always the risk of tearing great holes in the tapestry of our heritage. It is perhaps tradition that needs to

be scrutinised as a possible stumbling block for growth and development. In the past, tradition has stifled many well-meaning plans and initiatives. Phrases such as ‘We’ve always done it like this’ come to mind. Often traditions serve well to support the core mission, but they are effective only at the time they are relevant. Let’s not judge ourselves too harshly in this respect. I recall when we held our own Mother’s Day on the first Sunday in May, irrespective of the day celebrated by the rest of the nation. Also, there are those who remember the days of the Sunbeams and the red and grey uniforms of the Life-saving Guards – all now happily amalgamated within the Baden-Powell movement. More recently, even the beloved bonnet – which for so long was the focal image of the women’s uniform – came under the scrutiny of traditional merit. The future of our Army is dependent on maintaining a clear focus on the specific role it was called into being to fulfil within the ministry of the Church. So, as we formulate and implement our plans for mission development, let us review our traditions but safeguard our heritage. Otherwise we are in danger of throwing the baby out with the bath water!

RICHARD IS CORPS SERGEANTMAJOR, STAPLEFORD

BIBLE STUDY

Devoted… Captain Steve Smith asks if Jesus is part of your life STUDY PASSAGE: ACTS 2:42–47

S Jesus a part of your life? It may be a slightly old-fashioned sounding question, but how would you answer? Reading through the early chapters of Acts, I came to a challenging conclusion: Jesus was not part of the Early Church. And it was because Jesus was not part of the Church that it was so attractive, so awe-inspiring and so effective! From what source can I make such a claim? ‘They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer... Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people’ (Acts 2:42, 46 and 47). Imagine what it would have been like to be a part of that fledgling church – to be devoted to learning from people who had lived in the physical presence of Jesus for three years, who had heard him teach, seen him perform miracles, witnessed his crucifixion and resurrection and then been commissioned by him to ‘go and make disciples of all nations’ (Matthew 28:19). Imagine being devoted to that kind of fellowship. ‘Fellowship’ is a word we use quite loosely in church circles these days, almost interchangeable with the word ‘coffee’. How often have you heard it said: ‘Following the service today we will share fellowship’? In the Early Church, ‘fellowship’ meant sharing deeply, personally and intimately with one another in community. Imagine being devoted to the remembrance of the gospel of Jesus, sharing meals together regularly in each other’s homes

and in the thoroughfare of the community. Imagine everyone in those gatherings being devoted to praying for each other, praying for their neighbours who had not yet come to faith and praying for the needs of their community. So how could I suggest that Jesus was not a part of that church? Quite easily! He was not a part of the church: he was the centre and focus of the church, which was entirely devoted to him. Everything they did flowed from that devotion. Strategies had not yet been discussed; visions and values had not yet been formulated. All they had was total devotion to Jesus and his gospel. That church, totally devoted to Jesus, was a powerful and inspiring movement. People were ‘filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles’ (Acts 2:43). Can you imagine a church that was so awesome it attracted people to come and find out what on earth was going on there? It was a radically giving, selfsupporting church, overflowing with generosity to the degree that ‘they sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need’ (Acts 2:45). Can you imagine a church so generous that people outside it were not donors to its work, but recipients of it? That church was so awesome, generous and Jesus-centred that ‘the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved’ (Acts 2:47). Imagine the impact of a church that devoted to Jesus, that generous and that awesome on our world today! A lot has changed in the 2,000 years since the birth of the Early Church. Are

we still as devoted to Jesus as they were or have we become devoted to other things? What would evoke the most passionate response in your corps – the cancellation of a prayer meeting or cancelling something else? Would you rather give generously or collect enthusiastically? When was the last time someone called your church ‘awesome’ and was attracted by what Jesus was doing in the lives of its people? There is good news. ‘God is able to do far more than we could ever ask for or imagine. He does everything by his power that is working in us’ (Ephesians 3:20 New International Reader’s Version). So I ask again: is Jesus part of your life, or even part of your church? If he is, then put him in the centre and see what happens.

CAPTAIN SMITH IS CORPS OFFICER, CHELTENHAM CITADEL, AND ASSISTANT DIVISIONAL CANDIDATES OFFICER, WEST MIDLANDS Salvationist 23 November

NEW COMMITMENTS

5. 1. ANNETTE HICKMAN Soldier SOMERCOTES ANNETTE made the corps her spiritual home three years ago. Having attended recruits classes she became an adherent member last year. In prayerful response to the Go Deeper campaign, she decided to become a soldier to explore new avenues of service and go deeper in her faith. Annette is pictured with corps leader Territorial Envoy Terence Carpenter. – T. C. 2. BEN SEARLE-BARNES, KAREN RUDKIN Adherent members READING CENTRAL CORPS officer Major Iain Hudson welcomed Ben and Karen as adherent members. Ben went to the corps after he attended the commissioning of a friend in USA Eastern Territory in 2012. He helps at the youth club and leads a Bible study cell group. Karen was invited by a former work colleague who is a corps member. She is now involved in corps activities, helping at the youth club and the Rainbows. – P. B. 3. DANIEL HOLLAND, RACHAEL SMITH Soldiers YORK FAMILY and friends supported Daniel and Rachael during their enrolment on Back To Church Sunday. Daniel received a call to officership as a boy. His enrolment is a step in response to that call. Rachael gave her testimony through the song ‘Beauty For Brokenness’, allowing the words to speak of her love for Christ. – S. D. 16

Salvationist 23 November 2013

4. & 5. SARA COOK, BARBARA INGHAM Adherent members GLOUCESTER CORPS officer Major Adrian Allman welcomed Sara and Barbara as adherent members. They started attending the corps in recent months; Sara lives near the hall and Barbara was invited by a friend. – S. M. 6. ADAM FRICKER Adherent member STOTFOLD ADAM was introduced to the Army by his girlfriend, Rebecca. During the past few months he has regularly attended Sunday meetings, as well as the youth fellowship, and now helps at the midweek youth club. He decided he wanted to publicly demonstrate that the corps is his church; he was welcomed into the fellowship by corps officer Captain Alison Stone. – A. S. 7. JEAN REDFERN Soldier KATHLEEN SELL Adherent member FELTHAM JEAN has worshipped at the corps for three and a half years and works tirelessly with the children on a Sunday and at the after-school club. She has also developed a ministry where she films the meetings each week and sends a copy with a newsletter to those unable to attend. After attending soldiership classes Jean decided to make a deeper commitment to God and to the corps. Kathleen began attending Cameo club nine years ago after she lost her husband. She enjoys the worship and fellowship and wants to make The Salvation Army her church. – J. B.

8. MARIA AGUIAN Adherent member CARDIFF CATHAYS MARIA has worshipped at the corps for almost a year, having felt a sense of peace when she entered the hall. Corps officer Captain Paula Hubbard welcomed Maria as an adherent member during Harvest celebrations. – P. H.

Family and friends also joined in worship to welcome Ciara and Leah into the fellowship when they were enrolled as junior soldiers. – G. R-C.

10. KALLUM SMITH Junior soldier STREET KALLUM attends Kids Alive club and worships at the Army with his mum. He was enrolled as a junior soldier by corps officer Captain Deborah Oughton. – D. O.

13. ANNE HEWITT Soldier KETTERING CITADEL AS a girl of nine on holiday in Motherwell, Anne was invited into a Salvation Army meeting – and she loved it! For many years she didn’t live near an Army corps so became a committed Christian in the Methodist Church. When she moved to Isham, near Kettering, she had a strong urge to follow her lifelong desire to be involved with the Army. Anne’s husband Bob and other family members joined the congregation to witness her enrolment as a soldier by corps officer Major Paul Doust. As well as engaging in some corps activities, she has applied to be a volunteer within the Kettering Hospital Chaplaincy ministry and part of the Army’s anti-human trafficking support team. – P. D.

11. & 12. MAUREEN BAXENDALE Soldier CIARA LEANING, LEAH HORNSBY Junior soldiers SCUNTHORPE MAUREEN had attended the Army for a number of years, when God placed a desire in heart to serve as a soldier. Family and friends supported at her enrolment.

14. MICHAEL BRAE Adherent member LOUTH MICHAEL wanted to make the Army his spiritual home and expressed his testimony through the song, ‘The Heart Of Worship’. Corps leader Territorial Envoy Bernard Snook welcomed Michael as an adherent member. – B. S.

9. LOWRI GRIFFITHS, AVA POWELL Junior soldiers PENTRE CORPS folk warmly received Lowri and Ava as they were enrolled as junior soldiers. They are pictured with corps officers Lieutenant Mark Kent and Major Maria Rosa Kent. – M. K.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE TRANSFERRED Effective 11 November: O Major Sandra Welch from IHQ to UKT, to be Director, Pastoral Care Unit, Personnel Service, THQ DEDICATED TO GOD Wood, daughter of Nick and Fleur Bryant, at Bristol Easton by Major Colin Hunt

O Wren

BEREAVED O Mrs Major Shirlee Green of her husband Major William Green, Captain Lynley Oliver, Swindon Citadel, and Robyn Green of their father O Bandsman/Songster Ivor Adams, Failsworth, of his father Bandsman Fred Adams O Songster Ann Anstead, Wickford, of her husband SL Roy Anstead, Steven Anstead, Simon Anstead, Stuart Anstead and Jane Lamberti of their father O Rtd YPSM Graham Redwood of his wife Rtd CT Elsie Redwood, Dep SL Glenys Redwood and Bandsman Leslie Redwood of their mother, all Street O CT Chris Booth of her husband SL Ray Booth, Vikki Booth of her father, both Louth

RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: O Major Alfred Shields (85 on 12 November, not 2 November as published in 9 November issue) O Major Cecil Waters (80 on 1 December) O Major Francis Newnes (80 on 2 December)

TRIBUTES MAJOR MARGARET (RITA) BAXTER HARD-WORKING and dedicated, Major Rita Baxter served for 71 years as an officer. Leaving her home corps of Portobello in 1941 to join the Steadfast Session, her first appointment after commissioning was to Inverurie in North Scotland. Apart from two commands in Northern Ireland, all her ministry took place in Scotland. Many remember the major’s challenging platform ministry, her generous hospitality and her passion for doing the will of God. She touched the lives of many people – including Commissioner Bill Cochrane, who the major led to Christ at Barrhead and nurtured until his departure to the training college.

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL ANDRÉ COX AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: O Uganda, Th 21 Nov - Mon 25 O Australia Southern, Tu 26 - Mon 2 Dec O Italy and Greece, Sat 7 - Mon 9 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER WILLIAM ROBERTS) AND COMMISSIONER NANCY ROBERTS: O Liberia (25th anniversary celebrations), Th 5 Dec - Tu 10 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER CLIVE ADAMS) AND COMMISSIONER MARIANNE ADAMS: O Royal Albert Hall (Celebrating Christmas With The Salvation Army), Mon 25 Nov O Scotland Council, Th 28 Nov O William Booth College (SISTAD awards), Fri 29 O Appointments Conference, Sun 1 Dec O Palace of Westminster (Parliamentary carol service), Th 5 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: O Wellingborough, Sat Sun 24 Nov O Royal Albert Hall (Celebrating Christmas With The Salvation Army), Mon 25 O Scotland Council, Th 28 O Appointments Conference, Sun 1 Dec O Palace of Westminster (Parliamentary carol service), Th 5 O Reading Area Retired Officers Fellowship, Th 12 O St Helier, Sat Sun 15 COMMISSIONER BIRGITTE BREKKE-CLIFTON: O ICO, Fri 6 Dec COMMISSIONER GILLIAN DOWNER: O The Philippines, Tu 19 Nov - Wed 27 O Taiwan, Th 28 Nov - Sun 8 Dec COMMISSIONERS TORBEN AND DEISE ELIASEN: O USA Eastern, Sat 7 Dec - Fri 13 COMMISSIONERS JOASH AND FLORENCE MALABI: O Congo (Brazzaville), Th 21 Nov - Wed 27 INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND: O Palace of Westminster (Parliamentary carol service), Th 5 Dec INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS: O Royal Albert Hall (Celebrating Christmas With The Salvation Army), Mon 25 Nov

Salvationist 23 November 2013

At times the major could be a formidable force, but she did everything with a pastor’s heart. She was one of the first officers to have a car, which she called ‘God’s car’, and used it for visiting and transporting people to hospital at any time of day or night. After retirement in 1976 she soldiered at Edinburgh Gorgie, becoming the home league treasurer. Major Rita always spoke in the Scottish vernacular, and when challenged about her financial generosity she would raise a smile by saying: ‘There’s nae pockets in a shroud’. Major Rita was a loyal and faithful officer, generous with her time, talents and treasure. After a lifetime of dedicated service, she was promoted to Glory the day before her 97th birthday. – L. C.

MRS MAJOR FLORRIE (FLO) WEST BORN in Deal in 1911, Flo was taken to the Army at three weeks old by a family friend. By her early teens she was the corps organist, taking a full part in corps life. She entered the 1935 Liberators Session and was appointed to Stockwell in the London area. She later had to return to Deal to look after her father and terminally ill mother. In 1940 she married Albert West, a Salvation Army Assurance Society agent. After her father’s death the couple moved to Rutherglen, Scotland, with their daughter Vi, where Albert became a district superintendent. After his commissioning in 1957 Flo’s rank was reinstated and as officers they went on to serve in district appointments at South Shields, Sunderland, Swansea, Carlisle and Crewe. When the SAAS closed in 1972 they transferred to corps ministry, serving at Greenford, Hounslow, Feltham and Hythe. On retirement in 1982 they returned to Deal, where Albert died in 1998. Although restricted by severe arthritis, Flo continued her ministry by means of correspondence and telephone conversations – commenting that her appointment was now that of ‘prayer warrior’. Mrs Major West was gracious, kind, compassionate and contented. Although selfeffacing, she was always willing to use her musical talent for the glory of God and was an inspiring preacher. She loved her Bible and – when no longer able to see it – delighted to hear it read to her, or hold it in her hand and recite favourite passages learnt throughout her life.

She once wrote: ‘When I come face to face with the Saviour I will ask no questions, only say thank you for the forgiveness that has covered all my mistakes.’ – V. W.

DIVISIONAL ENVOY/ RECRUITING SERGEANT STUART SNOWBALL, GRANTHAM STUART first made contact with the Army in Darlington. Many years later he became a soldier at Thornton Heath and immediately witnessed for the Lord through the soup-run. This ignited his compassion for people. Moving to Grantham after marrying Brenda, Stuart – as recruiting sergeant – formed and led the SABAC group for 17 years to attract young people. A prison chaplain since 1998, he boldly sought to bring Jesus into the lives of inmates and commenced the Grantham Prison Fellowship. He was also busily involved in community activities, including the distribution of Christmas toys. At Stuart’s thanksgiving service the Mayor

of Grantham and the prison governor were among 200 people who came to acknowledge his unique influence on their lives. – B. S.

RETIRED SONGSTER LEADER MRS VERNA SMITH, CHATHAM THE daughter of officers, Verna was born in 1939. She began a nursing career at the Army’s Mothers’ Hospital in 1955, where she met Murray. They married in 1960. Verna became singing company leader at Wimbledon before moving to Chatham in 1965. She then held a number of positions including that of songster leader for 18 years. Following retirement from her much-loved career, she started a parent-and-toddler ministry at the corps which she continued to lead until three months before she died – a period of almost 16 years. Verna’s chief attribute was her ability to reach out in love to everyone she met. The individual was always more important than the group to which they belonged. – M. S.

JOYCE SINCLAIR, DARLINGTON JOYCE was born in 1923 and began attending the Army when she moved to Darlington after the war. It became a big part of her life as she attended Sunday night meetings and the home league. Joyce joined the home league singers, helped at the cake and sweet stalls and at the luncheon club when it was short-staffed. She was also the over-60 club birthday sergeant. In due course Joyce made a commitment of faith by becoming an adherent member. In 1997 reading became difficult through deteriorating eyesight. By 2007 Alzheimer’s started to affect her memory and, latterly, her mobility. Joyce has now claimed God’s legacy of everlasting life through her faith in Jesus Christ. – C. B. Please note that soldiers’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 120 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes.

Salvationist 23 November 2013

REVIEWS walking in white

A TASTE OF AFRICA Major Joy Paxton (THQ) reviews Walking In White by Commissioner Jolene Hodder A FAVOURITE T-shirt worn by many expatriates in Tanzania – Kenya’s neighbour – where I was privileged to live and serve for 11 years, bears these words: ‘And when I woke up, I was in Africa’. From the first page of Commissioner Jolene Hodder’s book, I was indeed back in Africa. Her account of her experiences in Kenya – by turns evocative, optimistic, thought provoking and humorous – took me back there in a way that could be surpassed only by an actual visit. In letters to her family and friends, her personal insights into the need, the ministry, the challenges, the lessons, the change in perspective, the personal experiences, the heartbreaking

situations, but above all the blessings, bring to life The Salvation Army’s mission within this wonderful continent. Challenges become blessings when seen in the light of the generosity of people who, materially, have nothing, but give her everything and count it a joy and a privilege to do so. Of herself she asks: ‘Where is the sacrifice?’ The answer is: ‘No sacrifice, just blessing upon blessing.’ For those who have known the joy of serving among these beautiful people, this book will take you back and remind you again of the privilege. For those who have not yet been to Africa, let this book take you there. I can assure you it will.

By Commissioner Jolene Kay Hodder

The commissioner writes with transparent honesty – not hiding the hardships, but revealing the blessing that passing through each hardship brought. The constancy of God’s love, which held her and continues to hold the people whom she served and loved, is never in doubt. When she stepped out in faith, God’s miracles happened again and again. References to Scripture and to William Pearson’s song ‘Walking In White’ (SASB 431) remind us that, truly, it is only God’s grace that makes us worthy to ‘walk in white’. O

Walking In White is available from www.tradewest.com (USA Western Territory)

THE ART OF TACKLING UNCOMFORTABLE TRUTHS IN THE 21ST CENTURY Cadet Callum McKenna reviews Gagging Jesus: Things Jesus Said We Wish He Hadn’t by Phil Moore HOW many times a day do you say to yourself, ‘I wish I hadn’t said that’? If you’re anything like me you’ll have quite a number and it is the formation of a similar list that is the basis for Phil Moore’s book, Gagging Jesus. The difference in his approach is that he lists and explores some of the things that Jesus said but that we wish he hadn’t. Throughout this short but hardhitting book Moore explains and expounds some of the sayings of Jesus that present us with difficulties, questions and uncomfortable feelings about the way we live our lives as 21st-century disciples. He takes Jesus’ first-century teaching and asks: ‘What does this mean when applied to the issues facing our society today?’ In 20

Salvationist 23 November 2013

doing so, he tackles matters such as masturbation, pornography, religious pluralism and forgiveness in a candid and frank way. If truth be told, some of his answers can leave us feeling a little uneasy. The opening lines of the book set the tone and pace for its contents: ‘Jesus of Nazareth wasn’t afraid to tell it like it is. Those who claim to follow him, on the other hand, often are.’ The book, which carries the endorsement of Alpha Course co-founder Sandy Millar, is highly provocative. It not only challenges attitudes but also the actions of Christians towards the poor and poverty and even notes that ‘the last great revival in Europe and America was led by William Booth and The Salvation Army’ – people who understood the

poor and who were prepared to live sacrificially for the sake of others. Moore doesn’t have all the answers. There are times when he ‘hits the nail on the head’ and is straight to the point about issues that have plagued the Church for a long time – but there are others when I feel he misses the mark a little. Nonetheless, I think that Gagging Jesus could be an excellent resource for discussion and debate about the things that Jesus said and did and what they mean for those who seek to follow him today. O Gagging Jesus is available from www.lionhudson.com (Lion Hudson) priced £4.99