Salvationist 24 December 2022

SALVATIONIST

CHURCH COMMISSIONERS TO VOTE AGAINST FIRMS THAT DON’T FULFIL HUMAN RIGHTS EXPECTATIONS

The charity investment arm of the Church of England will vote against companies in its investment portfolio that do not meet expectations on human rights.

As a shareholder, the Church Commissioners said that it wants to ensure that the companies it invests in respect the international human rights outlined in the UN guiding principles.

From [2023], it will vote on whether to re-elect directors of companies that fail to meet its expectations on human rights, including those with named responsibility for human rights or board chairs.

In addition, it will partner with data providers and proxy advisors to better assess companies so that transparency across the sector can be improved…

In its latest announcement, Dan Neale, social themes lead for responsible investment at the Church Commissioners, said: ‘We expect companies in which we invest to be actively committed to prevent, mitigate and account for human rights risks and impacts in all their activities. This includes managing issues like discrimination, modern slavery, indigenous people’s rights and community impacts.

‘We will use our vote with discretion, when we think it’s appropriate to signal our disapproval.’ Civil Society

VICTIMS OF VIOLENT CRIME AND TERRORISM REMEMBERED AT SOUTHWARK CATHEDRAL

A service to remember all those who’ve died as a result of violent crime and terrorism has taken place at Southwark Cathedral.

Speaking during the service, which saw the consecration of the Chapel of Reconciliation, the Bishop of Southwark explained the importance of the room.

‘As a pledge of our common commitment to work and pray for peace, justice and reconciliation ... this we do through seeking to heal the wounds of violent crime, through learning to live with difference and to celebrate diversity, seeking to build a culture of peace.’

Premier

WORST IS YET TO COME FOR CHARITIES, SAYS SURVEY

The worst is yet to come for charities as new research shows the cost of living crisis will be at its peak in the first quarter of 2023.

Charity Excellence’s monthly charity sector crisis update … shows … that demand for services has increased significantly, while charities’ ability to meet demand and maintain service standards continues to decrease…

The report said: ‘The crisis will be both deeper and longer than [the Covid-19 pandemic]. This is due primarily to the huge funding gap, made worse by inflation driving costs ... the surge in demand and increasing people[-related] challenges.’

Third Sector

KING CHARLES OFFICIALLY OPENS CHURCH COMMUNITY HUB IN LONDON, ATTENDS ETHIOPIAN ADVENT SERVICE

King Charles [learnt] about how a London church is reaching those in need in its local community.

His Majesty officially opened the King’s House, which is a community hub run by King’s Cross Church (KXC).

Before unveiling a plaque celebrating the King’s House, King Charles chatted to volunteers in charge of several initiatives including debt relief help, supporting the work of the local prison chaplaincy, a café serving the street community, and football sessions for refugees and asylum seekers.

Representatives from UK Christian charities were also present, including Christians Against Poverty, Growing Hope and London City Mission.

‘It’s wonderful that you take such trouble to make such a difference in so many people’s lives, so I can only thank you, rather inadequately, for that,’ King Charles told the crowd…

After the reception at KXC, King Charles … attended an Advent service at the nearby Ethiopian Christian Fellowship Church, which included Christmasthemed worship and prayer.

Premier

CONTENTS

The true light

AND here we are – it’s Christmas! We pay no mind to those who say ‘Bah, humbug!’ or ‘Happy holidays!’ and boldly proclaim that we herald the birth of Jesus, the Saviour of the world, the Son of God, the Prince of Peace, the Christ referred to in ‘Christ-mas’. ‘For to us a child is born, to us a son is given’, as Isaiah 9:6 says, and we celebrate accordingly.

On page 4 we have a message from General Brian Peddle in which he speaks of Jesus as being the Light of the World and he encourages us to share that light with others.

The General writes that Jesus ‘came to the world to bring about transformation’. He adds: ‘If you are seeking change, seek Jesus. If you are living in a dark place in life, seek him who is the Light of the World.’

This theme is picked up by Lieut-Colonel Richard Borrett in our Bible study on pages 14 and 15, as he reflects on Luke 2 and the reaction of Simeon to encountering Jesus at the Temple.

Simeon says: ‘Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel’ (Luke 2:29–32).

Jesus is a ‘light for revelation’. As CS Lewis said, ‘I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.’ In Jesus we see life, others, God and ourselves more clearly.

On pages 12 and 13 we have a Christmas message from Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill, and he refers to Psalm 27:1: ‘The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear?’

After speaking of the fears and challenges and trials many people across the UK are currently experiencing, the TC says the best place to be is in God’s presence, in his light.

One of the things I love most about Christmas is its unifying force: the world, if only for a day, has one common point of focus. In John 1 we read: ‘There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world’ (vv6–9).

Note it’s the light for ‘everyone’ and the hope is that ‘all might believe’. And so the TC’s message of living in the light of God is not just for us, or even just for Salvationists, but for all people.

That ‘all people’ – despite what some cricket fans might say – even includes Australians, and that’s where I’m bound. In January, along with my wife, Tracey, I commence a new appointment back in my home territory, so this is my last editorial for Salvationist.

I’ve greatly enjoyed serving in the UKI Territory for the past three years and I thank my predecessor, Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts, and also commend to you my successor, Major Julian Watchorn. Salvationist is also well served by a highly competent team, led wonderfully by Managing Editor Ivan Radford.

It would be remiss of me not to thank Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant and the territorial leaders for their support and encouragement, and I also thank the whole Publishing team for their commitment and service.

Have a wonderful Christmas and new year.

God bless you.

MAJOR MAL DAVIES Editor Salvationist

Quotes from the media 2

General’s 4 Christmas message News 5 to 8 Advent reflection 9 God with us by Lieutenant Matthew Stone

Photo feature 10 and 11 2022: A year in Salvationist Territorial Commander’s 12 and 13 Christmas message Open wide the stable door... (Are you thrall?)

Bible study 14 and 15 Simeon’s song by Lieut-Colonel Richard Borrett

Through the week 14 and 15 with Salvationist by Major Philippa Smale

New commitments 16 and 17

Announcements 18

Prayer matters 19

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS

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

Lightof the World

WHEN I consider the star that was a significant part of the first Christmas story, I’m reminded that scientists view the stars in the sky very differently than I do. For instance, they use light years to measure the distance of the stars from us on Earth. A light year is the distance light travels in one Earth year, so about 5.88 trillion miles (or 9.46 trillion kilometres).

The sun is our closest star and is some 93 million miles away. So, the sun’s light takes about 8 minutes and 20 seconds to reach us, meaning we see the sun as it was more than 8 minutes ago. The next closest star to us – Alpha Centauri – is some 4.3 light years away, so when we view this star today, we see it as it was 4.3 years ago. It’s as if we are looking back in time.

This means that the Magi written about in Matthew 2:1 and 2 would have seen a star whose light was beaming before they could even see it. And yet, God used that star to lead them to Jesus: ‘Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him’ (Matthew 2:2 New Living Translation).

Jesus came to be the Light of the World. He came to shine his light in

darkness – our darkness, the darkness of this world. We read in Isaiah 9:2:

‘The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.’ This was prophesied long before Jesus was born.

Are we talking about light years when it comes to Jesus? No, I don’t think so, because the Bible tells us he is the Alpha and Omega – the beginning and the end. He is as much a bright light today as he was at the beginning of time, or when he came to the Earth to take up residence and ‘move into the neighbourhood’ (John 1:14 The Message).

Jesus is not constrained by time. He is the ‘light of the world’ (John 8:12) and shines light into the darkest places of our troubled world, bringing change. The Light has come! There are no light years that can separate us from this Light. He is here, he knows us, and we can walk and talk with him now.

His purpose in coming was to be with us, but he has been, and always will be, with us.

If you do not know him already, you too can know this Light of the World. His name is Jesus, and he came to the

world to bring about transformation. If you are seeking change, seek Jesus. If you are living in a dark place in life, seek him who is the Light of the World.

For those who already know Jesus, he reminds us that we are light in the world. In Matthew 5:14 (MSG) we read: ‘You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colours in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill.’

May you be a source of light in your corner of the world this Christmas, as you bring the Light of the World to others! May God richly bless you throughout this Christmas season!

BRIAN PEDDLE

General BR

Carols at the Commons

WESTMINSTER

TERRITORIAL leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gillian Cotterill, Chief Secretary Colonel Paul Main and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Jenine Main joined MPs, peers, staff members and guests for the parliamentary carol service.

An ensemble from the International Staff Band presented ‘To Celebrate His Birth’ and ‘A Starry Night’, before Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons the Rev Tricia Hillas welcomed everyone present.

The congregational singing was interspersed with the stories behind well-known carols. Colonel Jenine and the speaker of the House of Commons, the Rt Hon Sir Lindsay Hoyle, MP, read from Luke 2. Commons Press Gallery Chairman Sam Lister read from Matthew 2 and Lord Gardiner of Kimble, the senior deputy speaker of the House of Lords, read from John 1.

Commissioner Anthony shared a prayer for those involved with the life of parliament, before the Rev Tricia gave a Christmas blessing.

The ISB ensemble concluded the service with the march ‘Christmas Joy’. – AR

Kids Alive! unveils Christmas card competition winner

THQ

THE winner of this year’s Christmas Card Competition has been announced, after more than 220 entries were received.

The contest asked readers to design a card to use on the e-card platform Don’t Send Me a Card, an environmentally friendly way to send seasonal greetings while supporting the work of The Salvation Army.

The overall winner was Siyona, aged 14, whose card design spelled out the joy of giving to loved ones at Christmas. The other winners included Mia, 6, in the Under-7s category, Ciara, 9, in the 7–9 category, Karina, 10, in the 10–12 category and Jathushigah, 13, in the 13-plus category. The runners-up were Chan Wing Lam, 6, and Surina, 13. They all received vouchers for The Entertainer and Siyona’s card was the front cover of the Kids Alive! Christmas issue. – AR

To send an e-card, visit dontsendmeacard.com/ecards/ charities/the-salvation-army/christmas-2

FUNDRAISING

TAMWORTH The Rotary Club of Tamworth Anker’s Christmas concert for Ukrainian refugees and displaced people raised £1,600, to be divided between the Army and Sacred Heart Church. The programme included Christmas music from Cannock Band and the Tamworth U3A Choir, monologues from entertainer Rhona Pownall, and addresses by Lieut-Colonel Bill Heeley and parish priest Father Michael White. – DN

MERTHYR TYDFIL Thanks to the Be a Star toy appeal, more than 30 large bags of new toys were collected by social services and Merthyr Valleys Homes to distribute. – LB

SKEWEN As the first public event in the hall since the Covid-19 pandemic, the Christmas fair was well supported by the community. The main hall was used for the sale of Christmas gift items, raising a total of £875. – SL

CHATTERIS The corps opened its doors for a Christmas fair during the town’s annual switching on of festive lights, with many people attending. – IT

SWINDON CITADEL The corps hosted a gift service for the residents of Booth House Swindon Lifehouse and Gloucester House ARC Lifehouse. Chaplains Captain Brian Ward (Booth House) and Alan Baldwin (Gloucester House) gave encouraging reports of successes in restoring residents back to society and Swindon Gorse Hill Singing Group participated. – KS

SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD The songsters led a Nine Lessons and Carols festival. It featured solo items from Ian Murphy (vocal) and Joshua Warrington (flugelhorn), and songs including ‘Come into Our World’. – AM

PERTH Corps folk have been distributing presents to children who may have little or nothing to wake up to on Christmas morning. – GA

SWINDON CITADEL Corps members donated toys and games for families in need during the toy service. – KS

Cirencester Band provide carols

during the switching on of the town’s

Christmas lights

The

via JustGiving. – MD

Chatham Band play carols at the annual Rochester Dickens Festival

Corps folk from Consett and Leadgate unite to collect for the annual Christmas toy appeal in Derwentside

SALISBURY

band added a novel piece of equipment to help them with carolling: a ‘collecting trike’, donated to the corps Re-Cycles bike project. After some renovation and festive modifications, it served as a focal point for the public to donate either with cash or

EDINBURGH CITY More than 80 people gathered for breakfast with Santa followed by Messy Church and Christingle making. Many families were attending for the first time and enjoyed making marshmallow angels, inflatable fairy lights, tree painting and engaging with a selection of toddler sensory play stations. The event ended with lots of glow sticks, a rendition of ‘This Little Light of Mine’ and a thank you prayer with sign language. – JG

Villa Adastra Care Home chaplain Major Ali Stone presents Graham Scutt from Hove Corps with toys collected by staff members, volunteers, families and residents

Major Tracey Mountford (Chelmsford) and Christina McClure receive toy appeal donations from Taziker

Feltham musicians play carols while a company collects toys for the Christmas Present Appeal

Enabled members enjoy online Christmas

UKI

ENABLED hosted an online Christmas celebration for a third year in a row using Facebook Live, Zoom and YouTube.

More than 120 members took part during the weekend, with many watching sessions on catch-up.

Sessions included a welcome, open house, worship, Your Nativity, poetry, carols, a quiz, timbrels, songs from the Essex Music Man Project and the George Steven Community Hub, as well as crafts and creativity.

The weekend concluded with a carol service and was a great success. – CS

DUNSTABLE The band, songsters and guests Lancot School Choir supported a carol concert that raised £700. After a novelty Nativity play involving children from Messy Church, the theme – What Does Christmas Mean to You? – was answered by four songsters who sang ‘It’s Simply Jesus’. The funds raised helped provide more than 300 hampers and Christmas gifts for families in need. – SB

Salvationist musicians from around the division play for Larne’s Christmas light switch on

Hove Band play carols for passengers travelling to the ‘North Pole’ on the South Downs Light Railway

WELLING Music teacher Sarah Fitzgerald Chanchai – who used to attend the parent-and-toddler group – held a concert in support of the Christmas appeal. She is pictured with her mother and son handing gifts over to the corps. – KS

IPSWICH CITADEL A packed Advent carol concert raised more than £700 to share between St Elizabeth Hospice and The Salvation Army. It included performances by the band, the hospice choir, cornet and piano soloists Matthew Peek and Eloise Peek and the timbrelists. – DC

Sherburn Hill CSM Colin Usher and YPSM Dorothy Usher receive Christmas Present Appeal donations from Stuart Smith of JCB

Army opens five more donation centres

UK

FIVE more donation centres have opened in Newbury, Burnley, Sunderland, Lichfield and Dumfries.

The Dumfries donation centre marks the 32nd store of its kind, offering affordable items to the community and supporting local Salvation Army corps in any way they can.

Major Terri Holdroyd (Dumfries) was one of the store’s first visitors as they were setting up.

David Macfarlane, the centre’s manager, is pictured with Assistant Manager Samuel Glendinning and driver Chris Muir. David said: ‘The donation centre is more than just a store - we can facilitate the mechanics of it but it’s shaped by our volunteers, customers, donors and partners so it will continue to evolve as more people join in. That makes for an exciting journey.’

Sales at Salvation Army donation centres overall are 35 per cent higher than pre-Covid-19 pandemic levels, and they have collectively served more than 1.5 million customers since the first centre was opened.

SATCoL Operations Director Tony Hosking added: ‘Our donation centres are all about community and affordability.

‘It’s the focus on the community that makes each donation centre special to the people it serves.’ – AR

Number of Christians on the decline

THQ

FOR the first time fewer than half of people in England and Wales describe themselves as Christian, the 2021 census has revealed.

The proportion of people who said they were Christian was 46.2 per cent, down from 59.3 per cent in 2011. In contrast, the number who said they had no religion increased to 37.2 per cent, up from 25.2 per cent.

Secretary for Mission Lieut-Colonel Drew McCombe said that the figures present ‘both a challenge and an opportunity’.

‘We could be downhearted,’ he commented. ‘Perhaps that is not necessarily a bad thing, if it causes us to galvanise our confidence in the gospel. Remember what history teaches us: when we have our backs to the wall and are on the margins, somehow God’s people turn back to God and stop relying on their own resources. This could, by the help of the Holy Spirit, be our opportunity to make a real difference.’ – AR

Read Lieut-Colonel Drew’s full response at salvationist.org.uk/ census2021

HOMELESSNESS

Countess of Wessex visits Salvation Army

NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME

HER Royal Highness the Countess of Wessex paid a visit to find out about a new rough sleeping initiative programme.

The programme, which is run by the Newcastle-under-Lyme borough council and facilitated by the Army, aims to tackle homelessness in the area. The Countess observed a typical morning session, with food and refreshments served by volunteers, while staff members provided advice, a listening ear and practical support to those looking for emergency accommodation.

Corps officer Major Julian Rowley said: ‘It is a new venture started in September and we hope it will continue to meet the increasing demands placed upon agencies engaged in this area of community work.’ – AR

EVENT

NORTH WALSHAM Cadet Rachel Abbott organised an open day with stalls displaying information about the Army’s work and history. A supper followed for members and visitors. – JB

EVENT

new

after 14 years of planning, co-ordination and building work. Recruiting Sergeant Heather Stubbs and Major Yvonne Dare led a prayer meeting. Saturday followed as an open day for everyone to see the new building. The Sunday morning meeting included a particularly poignant moment when the flag, having left its temporary home in Brunswick some weeks previously, was received by Major Liz. – BI

ARMY NEWS

A FIFA World Cup-inspired photo shoot at Chatteris Corps brings new people into the hall

NEWCASTLE CITY TEMPLE Corps officer Major Liz Hancock received the keys to the

hall

God with us

In our final Advent reflection, Lieutenant Matthew Stone celebrates Christ’s peace breaking through into our world

‘For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.’

(Isaiah 9:6)

IF it were on The Great British Bake Off, the judges would have struggled to say anything nice about my cake. It was inedible and roughly decorated with shop-bought fondant icing. But when my wife cut into it at an online gender reveal party, with family members watching on, chocolate balls wrapped in blue foil spilled out as they were meant to, revealing that we were expecting a baby boy. As I reflect on Isaiah 9:6, I find myself thinking about expectation and tradition – and how, like my cake, we can find something beautiful inside something that’s not how it should be.

SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL

Isaiah recognised that things weren’t how they should be between God and his people. However, he also reminded those listening that it didn’t mean that everything was bad or that things

couldn’t change. In and among all the things that weren’t right, Isaiah knew that something beautiful was breaking through: ‘The people walking in darkness have seen a great light’ (Isaiah 9:2).

His message wasn’t just about the coming of Christ centuries later. It was a message for the day and world that he lived in. It was a message for the world that Christ was born into. It’s a message for us today: if things aren’t as they should be, let’s look out for where God is breaking into the world with his light and peace.

TRADITION

Nonetheless, Isaiah 9:6 has come to be associated with this time of year. Unlike texts where the Gospel writers make the association with Jesus for us (see Matthew 4:15 and 16), Isaiah 9:6 has been associated with Christ through Christian tradition. It’s not a new tradition, like gender reveal parties, but generations of believers have identified Christ in Isaiah’s words.

Advent and Christmas are filled with tradition. Some of these traditions we understand, and others have simply always happened. Traditions can be exciting and beautiful when they retain their meaning and significance. So, as we reflect on Christ’s coming and these words, I’m challenged to discover what their meaning is for me.

EXPECTATION

When we were expecting our baby, I couldn’t have guessed what it would

mean for me. I still remember the excitement of the scans, the gender reveal and the baby shower. I also remember the anxiety around all the unknowns. Yet in Jesus, we have someone who we’re told all about and who is still more than we could ever expect.

As we think about the names that are associated with him, Jesus reveals how God is breaking into the world with his perfect presence. In that presence, we discover and experience his provision, power and peace. Isaiah’s words point to what God did, to what God continues to do and to the time when Christ will come again and we fully know his presence with us and all that it brings.

As we look forward to the celebration of Christ’s birth, we understand that something incredibly beautiful is breaking into life as we know it: God’s presence with us in whatever we’re experiencing. In that presence, God provides for us what we need; his power is making all things as they should be and his peace brings us a sense of his wholeness.

‘Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the centre of your life’ (Philippians 4:6 and 7 The Message).

LIEUTENANT MATTHEW STONE

Corps Officer

LIEU

Open wide the stable door… (Are you thrall?)

OF all the words that attempt to capture the glorious experience of Christmas, I suspect that ‘thrall’ is not top of your list! ‘Joyful’, ‘peaceful’ and even ‘merry’ will be way ahead of this interesting word that I primarily know from one of The Salvation Army’s finest carols.

Published in 1961, written for male voices by General Wilfred Kitching and Commissioner Arch Wiggins, ‘The Stable Door’ is a favourite of many – with a wonderful invitation for each of us to join those bringing gifts to the infant King. The stable door is open, and it is possible for ordinary people like us to bring ourselves, offering all that we are to the Son of God. The last verse says it beautifully:

Now I bow me at thy stall, Giftless, yet I give thee all; Thou art Lord, and I am thrall To thee, O Son of God!

There it is! ‘I am thrall to thee.’ Right in the centre of Christmas thinking and reflection is this thought, this possibility of being ‘thrall’ – whatever that means!

I venture to suggest that most people who do not have English as their first language may never have even come across the word. I also suspect many people whose first or only language is English rarely, if ever, use the word and would struggle to give a definition – unless, that is, you know your Salvation Army songbook! Song 698, verse 3: ‘Salvation! Salvation! O tell to all the story,/ The thraldom of evil is broken and gone!’ Song 1010, verse 2: ‘Too long mistrust and fear/ Have held our souls in thrall.’

We are more likely to come across the word, and thus understand its meaning, in the context of being ‘enthralled’ – that is, being captivated by what is happening. Now that begins to make sense! Invited into the presence of Christ, the overwhelming response is to bow in wonder and to be captivated by the awesome, generous love of God expressed in the person of Jesus. ‘Beautiful Lord, wonderful Saviour… I’m captured by your holy calling’ (SASB 355).

In the presence of Jesus, the bowing soul experiences a flip of thraldom from darkness, sin and

fear to light, salvation and hope. Of course, that transition is secured for us at Calvary, but the writing is clearly on the wall, if not in our hearts, at Christmas.

I am sure you will have sung ‘the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight’ more than once in the past few days. That reminder gives me great strength and comfort as we come to Christmas and the conclusion of 2022. The fears of the world and of individuals are at crisis point as not experienced in decades. Having come through the dreadful days of the Covid-19 pandemic, the long-term psychological, physical and spiritual consequences are immense. War, especially that evilly waged against Ukraine, has added fuel to fires of despair and deepened the economic pressures that affect, it seems, the whole world and every person in it.

We are all acutely aware of the challenges for so many who are desperately trying to keep above the rising waters of financial pressure caused by inflation and an inability to pay for heat or food. Fears of not being able to pay the mortgage or rent and feed the family or keep

warm and thus keep on an even keel, are debilitating. Resultant strikes by so many different services, and a knock-on inability to easily access medical care and treatment, all further propel us back into the thralldom of fear from which we have been liberated.

Some words from Psalm 27: ‘The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?… Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear… One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord’ (vv1–4 English Standard Version).

It seems to me that the antidote to all the encircling fears that may beset us this Christmas is an intentional entrance into the presence of God, into the house of the Lord. Deliberate steps through an open stable door, to a place where, even trembling with love and pain, I come and bow before the Son of God, offering again all that I am to the One who is giving everything up for me, and

declaring: ‘Thou art Lord and I am thrall to thee, O Son of God!’ I hope that you will join me in this prayer and trust that you will find great enthralment as you revisit and continue to be part of the greatest story ever told.

Thank you for all your service for the Lord in 2022. I wish you a very happy and blessed Christmas and commencement to 2023.

Open wide the stable door, Monarchs rich and shepherds poor Wait to tread the holy floor Where lies the Son of God. See, they bring him gifts of gold, Tender lambs from Judah’s fold, As with awe their eyes behold The infant Son of God.

I am not a wealthy king, Naught have I for offering. E’en a lamb I cannot bring To give thee, Son of God. Yet I would be at thy side And the door is open wide! What can empty hands provide, O what, thou Son of God?

Not without can I remain, Not my heart’s deep urge restrain, Trembling ’neath my love and pain, I come, dear Son of God. Now I bow me at thy stall, Giftless, yet I give thee all; Thou art Lord, and I am thrall To thee, O Son of God!

C

ANTHONY COTTERILL Territorial Commander

COMMISSIONER

Simeon’s song

LUKE 2:22–35

IWONDER how often you have been asked the question: ‘Where were you when [insert an event here]?’ There are events that have such an impact on us that we remember exactly where we were, and what we were doing, when particular news reached our ears.

One day, when I was training to be a Salvation Army officer at William Booth College, an officer of considerable experience came to lead morning prayers. He asked who among us remembered the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The blank looks around the room conveyed the message – most of us were born many years later than 1953. It made us smile and the memory has remained. We remember trivial things, but some memories have a much greater impact, either on ourselves or upon the wider community.

Through the week with Salvationist

– a devotional thought for each day by

PAUSE AND REFLECT

What event came to mind when you read the earlier question?

Why do think that particular event came to mind? Does it say something about the generation you are part of?

In Luke 2:22–35, Luke sets the scene for a momentous and much awaited life-event in the experience of Simeon: Jesus is presented at the Temple according to a custom that goes all the way back to the times of the Israelites as recorded in Scripture (see Exodus 13). According to that tradition, the consecration of the firstborn son was a way of keeping God’s salvation through the exodus from Egypt firmly fixed in the national memory.

Luke provides more detail: Mary and Joseph bring ‘a pair of doves or two young pigeons’ (v24). This indicates they were not a rich family, as this provision is

SUNDAY

Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. (Luke 2:25 and 26)

MONDAY

made for those without the material means to present a year-old lamb for a burnt offering (see Leviticus 12).

Enter Simeon, who is part of a select group of biblical characters described as ‘righteous’. Through some sort of mystical experience, he knows that he is to witness something special and is led to visit the Temple in Jerusalem.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Have you ever done something on a hunch or through feeling simply that you ought to do it?

What was the outcome?

Did you consider that God might have been involved?

Simeon seems to have been prompted by God and so is ready for the encounter he has long been waiting for. Luke describes him as one ‘waiting for the consolation of Israel’ (v25), a rather

There is a Redeemer,/ Jesus, God’s own Son,/ Precious Lamb of God, Messiah,/ Holy One. (SASB 204)

TUESDAY

Moved by the Spirit, he went into the Temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus … Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: ‘Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace.’

(Luke 2:27–29)

Major Philippa Smale

Lieut-Colonel Richard Borrett considers a significant moment in time when a long-held hope was fulfilled

unusual term by today’s parlance. This is a reference to the promised arrival of Israel’s Messiah who would fulfil all God’s promises to Abraham and David, bringing salvation to all (see Isaiah 40:1 and 2).

So, Simeon is at the Temple, expecting to meet the Messiah when Mary and Joseph bring their newborn child to be presented, as required by the Law.

Upon seeing Mary and Joseph, Simeon takes the baby into his arms and praises God, saying: ‘Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations’ (vv29–31).

In this moment, Simeon knows his life is complete. Everything he has longed for and has been promised is here in front of him. Things aren’t going

WEDNESDAY

When I stand in Glory/ I will see his face,/ And there I’ll serve my King for ever/ In that holy place.

(SASB 204)

Prayer

Lord, we thank you and praise you because you came to be the light of the world. We pray that more and more people will come to accept you as their Saviour as they hear and see the gospel message at Christmas.

to get any better than this! The rest of his life will be lived in the reflected glory of this moment.

Simeon’s life is complete. Not necessarily finished – we are not told anything more about the rest of his days – but complete. What a thought!

PAUSE AND REFLECT

What would it mean for you to describe your life as complete?

With all we now know about Jesus’ conception and birth, it is perhaps not surprising that Mary and Joseph appear bewildered at all that is going on. Not so, Simeon. Simeon is not so immersed in his experience that he loses all sense of his role in God’s purposes.

He blesses Mary and Joseph and brings to them some sobering words about Jesus’ future: ‘This child is destined for the falling and rising of

THURSDAY

‘For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.’

(Luke 2:30–32)

FRIDAY

many in Israel … and a sword will pierce your own soul too’ (vv34 and 35). These are hardly words of consolation, but history has proved their accuracy.

Simeon’s cameo appearance in Luke’s birth narrative is over. We don’t know what happens next. He has played his part and the story moves on. However, after this encounter Simeon’s life will never be the same. It tends to be like that when people meet Jesus. Where were you when you first met him?

King of kings, Lord of lords, Son of God exalted;/ Name above ev’ry name, Lamb upon the throne./ This King will come again, the Father’s only Son;/ No more a world in darkness, the light will come. (SASB 133)

SATURDAY

Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: ‘This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.’

(Luke 2:34 and 35)

LIEUT-COLONEL RICHARD BORRETT Chief Secretary Eastern Europe Territory

COVENTRY CITY Panashe and Alfie were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Major Val Spivey during the YP annual prizegiving. Also pictured is Flag Sergeant Richard Thomson. – VS

as an adherent

weekend. Molly testified to God’s presence in her life and thanked corps members for their support and encouragement. They are all pictured with corps officers Captains Emma and Les Heal, as well as Edna McElroy, who was recognised for her service on her retirement after 17 years as corps secretary. Edna spoke of her faith, her commitment and her years of service, including four years working for the Army in the Congo. – EF

CLITHEROE Natalie Ashworth was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Aux-Captain Elizabeth Smith. Natalie first came to the Army with her friend, Michael Williams, pictured holding the flag. She testified about the sad times in her life and how God was always with her. She believes God has led her to commit to service in The Salvation Army. – ES

WORKSOP Tony Cookson was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Captain Vicky Owen. Tony has been coming to coffee mornings regularly and was invited to attend on a Sunday. He has attended every week since and now wants to make the corps his place of worship. He is pictured with Captain Vicky, Recruiting Sergeant Sylvia Duty and Colour Sergeant Bernard Pell. – VO

PONTYPOOL Denise Wright was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Captain Lorraine Warriner. Denise testified how God helped her through difficult times, when she would often pray to him for guidance. – AW

CARLISLE Nigel and Jenny were welcomed as adherents by corps officer Captain Mel Scoulding. Nigel, a musician with a local band, was invited to band practice. He and his wife, Jenny, soon became regular attenders at meetings, with Nigel playing in the band. Both testified to how welcome they felt at the corps. – WJ

KILMARNOCK Molly Forsyth was welcomed

by Colonels Paul and Jenine Main (THQ) during the 140th corps anniversary

The meeting, led

Psalm 139 and some of the work the children had completed as part of their preparation for soldiership. Pictured are Hannah, Deborah, Chinyelu, Chiamaka, corps officers Majors Chris and Lin Herbert, Barakat, Heather, Noah, Neive, Hattie, Farouk, Simba and Tymon. – LH

HASTINGS TEMPLE

Corps officer Major Karen Smith (left) has enrolled six soldiers since the Covid-19 lockdowns, four of whom are new to The Salvation Army. Di, Margaret, Stephen, Meg, Thanan and Ann are overjoyed with their new covenant with God. They are pictured with Recruiting Sergeant Major Carole Babstock. – MS

ENFIELD The corps was delighted

PLYMOUTH EXETER

HALL WHITLEIGH

Margaret was enrolled as a junior soldier by her grandad, Major Ian. This was a special day for family and friends who gathered to support Margaret and her baby brother, David, who was dedicated to God on the same day. – TD

UK

run a fortnightly coffee

in Bromley. Barry linked up with the café outreach after feeling prompted to return to the corps where his mum had dedicated him 80 years previously. Bernice was prompted to attend after seeing the band at an open-air meeting. Melanie, who came to faith through the Alpha course, will head up the activity at the corps. Each witnessed to how God has been at work in their lives. – IH

Ukrainian

Saeed

an adherent. In his testimony, Sam shared how he was born in Iran and moved to the Philippines in 2008 to study for his PhD. While there, he was able to worship and practise his Christian faith freely. When he moved to the UK, his mum’s connection with the Army in Sweden led to him linking up with the corps. Sam thanked God for his guiding presence, especially during his studies and when he felt alone. He desires to belong to The Salvation Army so he can deepen his faith and relationship with God. He is pictured with corps officers Majors Glenn and Sharen Furlong. – SF

BATH CITADEL Theodora was enrolled as a junior soldier by corps officer Major David Wise. She has attended for the past six years with her dad, Abraham, and her sister, Annabel. Theodora read the Bible passage in the meeting and her dad prayed over her after she made the junior soldier’s promise. – DW

BROMLEY TEMPLE Corps officer Major Iain Hudson welcomed five adherents who have been regularly attending Sunday worship. Serhii and Mariia came to the Army as a result of the corps sponsorship of their visa application to the

from Ukraine. They

drop-in for the

community

LIVERPOOL WALTON A great time of celebration was had as 10 junior soldiers were enrolled.

by Heather Elliott and Hannah Elson, considered

to welcome

(Sam) as

ARMY PEOPLE

LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Golden

Brian and Kathy Wood, Margate (9 December)

DEDICATED TO GOD

Summer Hay and Violet Hay, daughters of Kerrie Hay, at Shiremoor by Lieutenant Faith Scales

PROMOTED TO GLORY

Norma Parker, Staines Ron Blake, Swindon Citadel

Major Philip Parkes from Glebe Court care home on 9 December Colonel Edward Cotterill on 15 December

BEREAVED

Nigel Jones, Ipoh, Malaysia, Ruth Wood, Nottingham Arnold, Martin Jones, Karl Jones and Paul Jones of their father Major Harold Jones Stuart Parker, Staines, of his wife Norma Parker

Colonel Eva Cotterill of her husband Colonel Edward Cotterill, Commissioner Anthony Cotterill, THQ, Major Gordon Cotterill, Sutton, and Philip Cotterill of their father

TRIBUTES

BETTY CROSDALE, SOUTHPORT

BETTY was born in 1931 in the fisherman’s cottage owned by her parents. Apart from a few years following her marriage, she remained in the same cottage until she was promoted to Glory. She played a prominent role in the community as a school governor and at Southport Swimming Club, while also supporting her husband, Harold, who was a keen brass band enthusiast.

Harold’s links with brass bands led them both to the work of Southport Corps. It was not long before they were both enrolled as soldiers, with Harold becoming an enthusiastic member of the band and Betty a member of the songsters, the home league and the over-60 club.

Betty’s health deteriorated during the Covid-19 lockdowns, but she strived to share in worship at the corps whenever possible. Betty will long be remembered for her various acts of kindness and her strong faith in her Lord and Saviour. – GM

MARILYN BROWN, SOUTHPORT BORN in 1937 Lyn had an extremely active life. In her late teens she travelled to north Germany to assist the Sue Ryder Foundation in its work with Polish refugees. Upon her return to the UK, she obtained a master’s degree before working with offenders in Liverpool and at HMP Liverpool. She went on to become a lecturer at the University of Liverpool, training student probation officers and later student doctors.

While a committed Christian her whole life, it was through friends that Lyn was introduced to the work of The Salvation Army in Southport. This led to senior soldiership in 2010, when Lyn became a songster and wore her uniform with pride.

Throughout her life Lyn was motivated by her Christian beliefs and principles. She was committed to helping others achieve fulfilling lives, and will be sadly missed by many, in particular her brother and close companion, Jim. – GM

DOROTHY KING, NORWICH CITADEL

DOROTHY was the 15th child born to the Roper family in Paignton. Her early life was spent fully involved in the corps there. She met Bernard when her brother brought him home after having been on national service with him at RAF St Mawgan in Cornwall.

Dorothy and Bernard married in 1958 and had two children, Beverley and Adrian. At Norwich Citadel, Dorothy became involved as timbrel group leader, singing company sergeant and songster secretary. She also worked for several years at Catherine’s Coffee Shop. She

preferred to work behind the scenes and her quiet influence touched many lives.

Dorothy is greatly missed by the corps and her family, especially her children, four grandchildren and greatgrandson. – BB

BERNARD KING, NORWICH CITADEL BERNARD was born into a Salvationist family at Norwich Castle Corps. They were fully involved in the corps, especially the music sections. The family moved to Norwich Citadel and Bernard joined the band and also served for several years as corps treasurer.

Bernard lived with a chronic health condition, which eventually led to the amputation of both legs, but he was determined to stay mobile. Sadly, just three weeks after the promotion to Glory of Dorothy, Bernard also passed away suddenly.

While the family are very sad, they are also comforted by the thought that Dorothy and Bernard are together again. – BB

Please note that soldiers’ and adherents’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures may be included. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

Editor’s note The tribute to Beryl Holmes in the 17 December issue of Salvationist said she was from Felixstowe. She was actually from Lavenham Corps. Salvationist apologises for the error.

Retired officer Christmas greeting

Majors Colin and Ria Campbell express thanks for prayerful support following their surgery. Wishing happy Christmas and a good new year.

Welcome Sergeant Wally W, Brighton Congress Hall

ADVENT FOCUS

by Captain Gary Lacey (Territorial Prayer Network Support Officer)

SUNDAY 25 DECEMBER –

ISAIAH 9:6

Welcome, Lord Jesus! We welcome you into our world and into our lives. We recognise you as the Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and we stand in awe before you as the Prince of Peace! Come and be born in us, infuse every part of our lives with your precious peace, Lord. In Jesus’ mighty name. Amen.

END OF YEAR FOCUS

by Commissioner Gillian Cotterill (Territorial Leader for Leader Development)

MONDAY 26 DECEMBER

Lord, we thank you for the blessings of home, family and friends. We pray for people who find themselves homeless. We bring before you refugees, migrants and those who risk everything to find security and work on our shores. Thank you for those who care for people in need today and throughout the year including our own Salvation Army corps and centres. Help us always to look out for and love and welcome others. Amen.

TUESDAY 27 DECEMBER

Lord, help us not to be so eager to pack away Christmas and move on without truly opening the whole of our lives to you every day. May you be firmly seated on the throne of our hearts and may the joy of your birth be a constant song on our lips. Amen.

WEDNESDAY 28 DECEMBER

Lord Jesus, as we celebrate the joy of your coming to Earth, may we never forget the cost of your coming. Thank you for all that you endured on the cross so that we might be forgiven and receive the gift of life in all

its fullness. Give us boldness and courage to share the good news of your amazing love, we pray. Amen.

THURSDAY 29 DECEMBER

Lord Jesus, may the fruits of your Spirit –love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control – be seen in our lives every day. Help us to become more like you. Amen.

FRIDAY 30 DECEMBER

Loving Lord Jesus, thank you for the reminder that you are with us in every circumstance of life. We pray for those who are weary, anxious and burdened as we approach this new year. We bring before you your precious world with all its troubles. As your followers, may we overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Help us to share the hope that we have in you with those around us. Amen.

SATURDAY 31 DECEMBER

Father God, as we look forward to the new year, thank you for the reminder that you are Immanuel, God with us. We need not take one step without walking hand in hand with you. Come with your Holy Spirit and make your home in our lives afresh. Be our strength, our guide, our joy and peace for 2023 we pray, in the matchless name of Jesus. Amen.

NEW YEAR FOCUS

by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts (Secretary for Spiritual Life Development)

SUNDAY 1 JANUARY

The first day of a new year is always a special opportunity to thank God for his faithfulness to us. Whatever changes and challenges have been part of life in 2022, God our Father has walked with us. Let us praise him today for his constant love and grace.

MONDAY 2 JANUARY

Let the truth of Psalm 116:1 inspire our prayers today: ‘I love the Lord, because he hears me; he listens to my prayers’ (Good News Bible). What do you need to tell your Heavenly Father today?

TUESDAY 3 JANUARY

Listen to God. Pray that he will draw very near to you as you take time to be silent and still before him. ‘Come, occupy my silent place/ And make thy dwelling there!/ More grace is wrought in quietness/Than any is aware’ (SASB 777).

WEDNESDAY 4 JANUARY

Let your prayers today focus on your hopes for the coming year, seeking God’s guidance in everything. Whatever your season of life, living as a disciple of Jesus is a life of constant transformation, following our Lord and Saviour. Are you ready for transformation?

THURSDAY 5 JANUARY

A new year is often a season of making decisions to do something new or better, something to improve ourselves. These good intentions can be hard to sustain in our own strength, but let us thank God for his renewing Holy Spirit. What are you seeking to change?

FRIDAY 6 JANUARY

Whatever circumstances we may face, God never changes. Let us pray today for those whose lives are disrupted by war and conflicts, for people who have left their homeland seeking refuge and safety. Pray for people in the UK who have recently welcomed refugees into their communities.

Salvationist will continue to publish edited entries from Prayer Matters weekly in 2023, starting with the 7 January issue. A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationist.org.uk/resources

Isaiah 9:6

‘For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.’