Salvationist 24 June 2023

SALVATIONIST

DARING TO CARE COMPASSION IN ACTION

Taking time

IN a world where time is a precious commodity, it is sometimes hard to find time for ourselves, let alone for others. The hustle and bustle of daily life and the increased demand to achieve more in less time – despite the development of technologies that are supposed to make our lives easier –seem to conspire to rob us of the opportunity to take the time to give.

Yet against this bleak outlook there are those who do give generously. Who take the time to give above and beyond themselves.

In this week’s issue we shine a spotlight on some examples of this gift of giving. It was my privilege to attend the SATCoL conference and to hear countless examples of the generosity of others through volunteering and to hear something of the impact that this generosity was having upon people’s lives. The other examples in this issue of individuals doing and giving more are, I hope, an encouragement to us all.

Matthew 10:8 reminds us that we are to give freely in the context of the gift of God’s love given freely to us. May our giving be generous to all.

MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN EDITOR

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SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS

From the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated

FOUNDER William Booth

GENERAL Brian Peddle

TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

Commissioner Anthony Cotterill

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Julian Watchorn

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Prayer and politics

‘THE Church should stay out of politics.’ ‘Politics should stay out of the Church.’ ‘Religion and politics don’t mix.’ ‘The Salvation Army is apolitical.’ ‘Jesus had nothing to do with politics, so neither should we.’

These are just some of the statements that I hear on a regular basis from people inside and outside the Church, including Salvationists. I understand what usually lies behind such perspectives. Historically speaking, when the Church has fused itself with party politics, whether on the left or the right, there has been compromise and capitulation, which is why The Salvation Army is strictly non-partisan.

While I agree there are dangers lurking in the mix of religion and politics – and it may be nice and comfortable to dislocate ourselves from the messiness of modern-day politics – there is nothing in the Bible, our theology or our tradition that allows us to opt out altogether. Christians are called by God into the world as it is, with all its sin, injustice, inequality, brokenness and oppression. Since politics are society’s way of engaging with many of those things, we need to engage, not withdraw.

The modern, western worldview that divides sacred from secular still looms large over our imaginations. Four-hundred years of Enlightenment thinking has done a good job influencing even the religious

Reflect and respond

Pray the Lord’s prayer. What does it mean to ask for ‘thy will [to] be done on Earth as it is in Heaven’?

Join in prayer for victims of modern slavery, and for political leaders as they debate the Illegal Migration Bill: salvationist.org.uk/ prayforsurvivors

to believe that faith is a personal matter and primarily belongs in the private sphere. But for most of the Church’s existence, and certainly in the understanding of Jesus and his very first followers, this thinking is completely alien. In both the Old and New Testaments, there is the clear assumption that, since all of creation belongs to God, there is nothing that can be separated from God’s sovereignty: ‘The Earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it’ (Psalm 24:1).

God is over all things – including personal faith, communal religion and societal politics. While faith may have a personal dimension, it’s certainly never private. In Salvationist thinking is the understanding that there is an inseparable connection between personal salvation and active service in the world. Prayer and worship naturally spill over into public life. A life of holiness is not lived away from the world but in the very places Christ’s love is needed most.

When the Pharisees asked Jesus whether people should pay taxes to Rome, it was a question about the very idea of how far politics should stray into religious life. Jesus answered: ‘Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s’ (Matthew 22:21). It wasn’t an endorsement of a sacred-secular divide, but a challenge back to the questioners about how far they thought God’s authority extended. Did they

believe that their money belonged to God or to Caesar? There was only one conclusion they could come to: everything, even money, even the highest earthly power, was subject to God’s authority.

In the very act of prayer, we adopt a political posture. When we address our prayers humbly to a sovereign God, we acknowledge where true power lies – not with the state, or with money, or with influential people or institutions, but with the Lord of all things. As we bring the longings of our hearts before God, we often speak words about an alternative world, where God’s justice, peace, truth and love reign. This process, in its own way, calls for a reordering of how the norms of our society often work. Prayer, then, turns followers of Jesus into activists who want to see the world as it is turned upside down.

Let us allow our prayers to enlarge our vision of the Kingdom of God. As we cry out to him, both for victims of modern slavery and for political leaders, may our prayers speak of a world, a Church and a political system that is subject to the just and righteous authority of God.

MAJOR

Territorial Co-ordinator for Justice and Reconciliation

Continuing a series of topical reflections, Major Nick Coke reminds us that we are called to engage with the world

Quiz True or false?

by Garry D Reed

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From resting to redemption

Oluwatoyin Victoria Bakare (Gainsborough) shares how God’s faithfulness gives her certainty

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IAM Oluwatoyin Victoria Bakare from Nigeria and I believe that my journey to becoming a member of The Salvation Army at Gainsborough Corps was orchestrated by God.

The first sermon I heard from corps officer Major Colin Bradshaw quickened my spirit and I felt God’s confirmation when I decided to join the Movement.

Before I got married, I used to be a member of the African Church and served in its children’s department. However, during my mandatory oneyear service to my fatherland of Nigeria – as part of the National Youth Service Corps scheme – I decided to take a break from serving in church activities, saying in my heart I wanted to rest.

I rested. But, unfortunately, that decision led me to a period of confusion and uncertainty about my future. However, God was faithful and accepted me like the prodigal son described in Luke 15.

Since then, my family and I have been serving God.

I prayed and planned to ensure that my previous confusion and uncertainty never reoccurred. I am grateful for the privilege of being God’s child and for the opportunity to be an adherent in The Salvation Army.

Have you got a testimony to share? We’d love to hear your faith journey! Get in touch at salvationist@salvationarmy. org.uk

scan the QR code or visit salvationist.org.uk /articles/testimonies.

There are 1,041 songs in the Salvation Army songbook.

An early name for The Salvation Army was The Christian Mission.

The Skeleton Army first disrupted Army meetings in Weymouth.

The current world leader of The Salvation Army is General André Cox.

William Booth was originally a Baptist minister.

Fanny Crosby wrote more than 8,000 hymns and gospel songs.

General Edward Higgins was the first elected international leader of The Salvation Army.

Die Heilsarmee is The Salvation Army in the Netherlands.

Salvationist Samuel Logan Brengle was a renowned holiness teacher.

The Beatles’ song ‘Help!’ was inspired by a Salvation Army orphanage.

The Salvation Army has 12 doctrines.

Hadleigh Farm Estate was the venue for a mountain biking event in the 2012 Olympic Games.

Meet the life-changers

ANDREA LATHERON-CASSULE FIRST RESPONDER

I attended the Women and God weekend in 2019 and Romans 12:1 and 2 inspired me. After an awareness session by Territorial Director of Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery Major Kathy Betteridge, I eagerly emailed and began volunteering as a first responder.

The role is varied. We’re passed information – from a name to a 30-page solicitor statement – which I go through thoroughly. I find this helps people open up and creates a relaxed and thorough interview.

The work can be a learning curve, but we are provided with great support from the Anti-Trafficking Response Coordinators, which is really appreciated.

As a civil servant, my day job manager is supportive of my volunteering, encouraging me to talk at divisional meetings and raise awareness. Colleagues ask if it’s difficult or emotionally draining, but I quote Catherine Booth: ‘What the Lord wants is that you shall go about the business to which he sets you, not asking for an easy post, nor grumbling at a hard one.’

RICH JOHNSON TRANSPORT VOLUNTEER

I joined the Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery team in January. I wanted to do volunteer work with a difference. I love driving, so when I found this opportunity, it was a match made in heaven.

We help victims of human trafficking and modern slavery by transferring them to safe places in the UK. It’s a very rewarding role as you are massively helping someone who is at a very low point in their life.

Every journey is different. There are always lots of questions going around your head about the person you are about to pick up. Every person I have helped has been so nice and extremely grateful for the help we provide. It’s hard to see people who have been treated in the worst possible ways, but you reassure them that, from today, everything will get better.

ON THE ROAD

The ATMS Roadshow is travelling across England to raise awareness of modern slavery, championing its volunteers and creating a space for change.

GWYN ROSE-HOCKNULL VOLUNTEER MENTOR

I support people by acting as a positive influence and enabling them to be the best that they can be. Along with a colleague, I meet with our mentee every two weeks to set goals. This could include phoning the housing association with a query or finding the nearest community centre. Most of the time it’s just listening; we might be the only people that they trust to talk to.

The reality is that the person in front of you is a survivor and may have complex needs. The biggest challenge for me is remembering my training to not get too close or overstep boundaries.

A few years ago, I believe I came across a victim of modern slavery. As a HR officer, I terminated their contract for stealing food. After attending a three-day training course with the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority, it cut me to my core that all the signs of modern slavery were there, but I didn’t know how to spot them. I promised myself that I would help educate people to consider these signs and, if there was the opportunity, to support survivors of this horrible crime.

Find out more about getting involved and changing lives by emailing atmsintegratedmission@salvationarmy.org.uk, visiting eventbrite.com/o/53861196523 or scanning the QR code.

As the ATMS Roadshow rolls into Newcastle, Salvationist finds out why people choose to volunteer for the Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery Department

Empowered by the Holy Spirit

Major Mike Lloyd-Jones searches for the engine that drives Christians

ACTS 9:19–31

BE honest! How nosey are you? Every day, some 35 per cent of the world’s population accesses a Facebook account. Globally, a social media user spends 2 hours and 24 minutes a day checking their feeds. Are these users being nosey or are they just keeping up to date?

PAUSE AND REFLECT

If the account of Saul’s conversion and spiritual ministry was a series of Facebook posts, which would you ‘like’ and which would you scroll past?

Murderous threats – a quick scroll by? I don’t want to hear about that. The appearance of Jesus – a ‘like’ or thumbsup emoji? Reading that Ananias has gone to help Saul – a comment to encourage or a warning?

The early part of Acts 9 is an account of a dynamic power shift, summarised in verse 17 when Ananias prays for Saul to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

The subsequent verses show the change the Spirit makes in Saul’s life. Those who observe Saul’s change of focus and energy don’t just sit there taking little or no interest. They go from fearing his persecution to welcoming him as an all-in follower of Jesus.

Although members of the early Church in Damascus and Jerusalem know Jesus as the risen Lord and understand about grace, forgiveness and compassion, they still doubt Saul’s authenticity. Even after Saul faces assassination attempts and death threats, the believers openly

question the integrity of Saul’s conversion and anointing from God.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

How do we welcome new believers into our fellowship?

In our study passage, we observe another power dynamic in relationships. Saul was the hero of the religious authorities and zealots of the day. He had been the cheerleader for the persecution of these new Christians. He wanted them exterminated.

These days, the dynamic transformation in Saul’s life would be enough to send followers of Jesus into a social media firestorm. Saul ‘baffled’ them as he proved that Jesus was the Messiah (v22). They wouldn’t know where they stood with him, or what had happened.

Our acceptance of transformation doesn’t really have the depth of change that this held for them. A programme of personal persecution of Saul followed the programme of persecution of the believers already under way.

Persecution of Christians didn’t stop with Saul – Christians have been persecuted ever since.

Over the past 30 years, the number of countries where Christians face high to extreme levels of persecution has almost doubled, estimated to be 76 countries in 2023. According to a parliamentary research briefing, an estimated 360 million Christians globally face ‘very high’ or ‘extreme’ levels of persecution. Yet it is often within this persecuted Church that we see the brightest example of the same dynamic power shift in the lives of individuals as Saul experienced.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Where do you see persecution of Christians in the news?

Can you see the Holy Spirit’s power at work in these Christians’ lives and fellowships?

What impact does this have on your life and perspective?

Even when the challenges seemed insurmountable, something kept driving Saul. The empowerment Saul experienced when the Holy Spirit filled him drove him ever onwards for the Kingdom of God. The same Holy Spirit power can be seen in generations of believers.

Let’s consider some popular purported highlights from John Wesley’s diary: ‘Sunday, am May 5 – Preached at St Anne’s. Was asked to not come back anymore. Sunday, pm May 5 – Preached in St John’s. Deacons said, “Get out and stay out.” Sunday, am May 12. – Preached in St Jude’s. Can’t go back there either. Sunday, am May 19 – Preached in St Somebody Else’s. Deacons called special meeting and said I couldn’t return. Sunday, pm May 19 – Preached on street. Kicked off street.

‘Sunday, am May 26 – Preached in meadow. Chased out of meadow as bull was turned loose during the service. Sunday, am June 2 – Preached out at the edge of town. Kicked off the highway. Sunday, pm June 2 – Afternoon, preached in a pasture. Ten thousand people came out to hear me.’

Just imagine: 10,000 people in a

congregation. John Wesley journeyed from rejection, decline and even persecution to heading a spiritual movement that swept through England. Wesley was able to withstand and persevere only because of the same dynamic power and anointing of the Holy Spirit that Saul had experienced.

Today, if the Church is to not only survive persecution but also thrive despite persecution, then God’s people need to experience a similar empowering, anointing and commissioning of the Holy Spirit to which the likes of Wesley and Saul testified.

Unlike those occasions when we might quickly scroll through our Facebook feed and forget what we have read, let us consider the difference the power of the Holy Spirit can make in our lives and in the life of the wider Church.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Pray for Christians who are facing persecution, that they will know the presence and power of Jesus.

Pray for the Church to be open to the voice of God and to be willing to follow his leading.

Pray for yourself, that you may know Jesus deeper and receive the filling of the Holy Spirit’s power in your life.

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

JEREMIAH FOCUS

by Major Peter Mylechreest (THQ Chaplain)

SATURDAY 24 JUNE

Jeremiah was aware that the national covenant was broken almost as soon as it was made. However, Jeremiah received a fresh revelation that in the future God will write his law in people’s hearts and minds. Pray for those who accept the new covenant in Jesus.

SOUTH EAST DIVISION FRESH EXPRESSIONS FOCUS

by Major Sarah Butler (Divisional Mission Enabler for Fresh Expressions)

SUNDAY 25 JUNE – ISAIAH 43:19

Pray that God will continue to raise up pioneer leaders, both to start brand new expressions of The Salvation Army across the division and be engaged in more missional projects in their corps that seek to share the love of Jesus in a new way.

MONDAY 26 JUNE – ARMÁDA SPÁSY DOVER AND FOLKESTONE

Pray for the team who work hard among the Roma communities, bringing the light, joy and transformational power of Jesus to people trapped in addiction and despair.

TUESDAY 27 JUNE – EBBSFLEET

Pray for the Meet up Mondays wellbeing cafe. Amazing connections have been made in this new town, and this is the first main venture hosted at the Blue Bean Coffee Co and working in partnership with Baptists and Anglicans. Conversations have shown people to be very hungry and God is on the move.

WEDNESDAY 28 JUNE – FAVERSHAM

This fresh expression of church explores digital ministry and new avenues for outreach. This includes a podcast and a pre-loved school uniform bank supporting families in the community. Pray as people continue to find new spaces and places to bring Jesus.

THURSDAY 29 JUNE – FIRE AND BLOOD METAL CHURCH (GILLINGHAM)

As it looks to reach out to people in the heavy metal,punk and goth world, pray for clarity and God’s guidance as this ministry moves forward, that he would send us his people of peace and for open doors and hearts. This is a ‘tentmaking’ ministry with self-employed leaders. Pray for blessings in the business so they can continue to be available and independent.

FRIDAY 30 JUNE – SHEERNESS

Lord, give the community in Sheerness new strength so that they can build places of belonging and create a community for all to share their gifts so that people know that they are loved. Help them to see the light of Christ in the lives of all who are served, knowing that each person is loved, willed and necessary to your Kingdom. Amen.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for? Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line and the Territorial Prayer Network will uphold them in prayer.

MAJOR MIKE LLOYD-JONES Divisional Commander Central, Southern and Channel Islands

Radical for Jesus

Two interns from the Addlestone gap year programme (2021–2022) share their experiences

THERE is a pressing need to equip, empower and release young people to become leaders within The Salvation Army. Addlestone Corps has responded to this by offering three young people the opportunity to spend a gap year – starting each September – doing something radical for Jesus, which will develop their skills, understanding and personal reliance on God!

Major Ian Loxley (Addlestone)

During my time at Addlestone, I learnt so much about myself and who God has called me to be.

The gap year opportunity came up just as I was coming to the end of my time at university and trying to figure out where I was going to go next. I prayed a lot about it and God provided. The gap year poster was shared in a group chat, and I went for it!

I didn’t feel ready and I wasn’t sure what I was going to get out of it, but I knew that God wanted me to dive in headfirst. We got stuck into corps life and no two days were ever the same. I got to meet and journey alongside so many different people from all walks of life, supporting them physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Alongside the practical stuff of making sure the hall was tidy and ready for the next activity, there were opportunities for leadership at school assemblies, Bible studies, morning prayers, youth club, Cameo, youth church and Sunday meetings. We explored what spiritual leadership looks like and I believe that this gap year has been so formative for me personally, as I explored God’s calling on my future.

I have become more open to the wonderworking power of God and would encourage anyone who wants to know more about how they could better serve God to explore an opportunity such as the Addlestone gap year!

BEVERLEY REVELL

Discovering the gap year at Addlestone was an answer to many prayers. I can safely say that the year changed my life! I grew in my confidence with people, I made friends for life, and my relationship with God developed.

I had many opportunities to go to events, such as the Riverbank Women’s Conference, the Growing Leaders course, Preparing to Preach and Design for Life. I visited places such as Faith House – where I saw the work that they do supporting exploited women – Forest of Dean Corps and historical Salvation Army sites in London.

I was challenged with tasks I’d never done before. I became the Cameo co-ordinator and I led Bible study sessions and was responsible for organising a children’s half-term holiday club. I occasionally worked in the charity shop, and I loved it! These roles helped me develop leadership skills and become confident in decision-making.

I also did an Old Testament Bible study course, which helped my knowledge about the Bible grow. My relationship with God was strengthened through spending time praying and reading my Bible.

hop, and I loved it! nd become which I her.

It was my first time living away from home, and I couldn’t have asked for better flatmates! We got along really well and had so many laughs working together. I’ve made memories I will cherish for ever.

This is one of the best things I’ve ever done, and I highly recommend it!

The next step…

Lieutenant Nathan Loxley (St Ives) tells Salvationist about the corps gap year

YOUNG people take gap years for all sorts of reasons. Two of the most popular rationales involve helping yourself or helping others. But why not both!

Salvation Army gap years offer the opportunity to boost your CV with new skills while also speaking into real, lifechanging situations and taking your relationship with God into deeper waters.

St Ives’ gap year training package offers several streams. From developing youth work skills to exploring a calling to leadership and more, you will learn by experience.

If you’re ready to live out ‘Oceans

(Where Feet May Fail)’, you won’t be thrown in the deep end, but you will be encouraged to step out in faith and rely on God to take you ‘where your trust is without borders’.

St Ives offers an opportunity to discover another perspective of Salvationism – with no Sunday morning meetings, church takes place around a table with food on Tuesday evenings.

As a full-time volunteer, you could be involved in surf church, coffee mornings, youth clubs, parent-andtoddler groups, Bible studies, prayer days and more. In return, the corps will uphold you practically, spiritually and emotionally, providing a mentor and supportive relationships.

‘We love investing in young people,’ Nathan enthuses. ‘That’s our heart in so many ways. It’s about building a team and modelling community, modelling church and modelling the Army. It’s informal, but it’s the same heart, and we’re seeing lives transformed!’

Are you thinking about doing a gap year?

For more information about Addlestone’s tailored programme and training opportunities, contact addlestone@salvationarmy.org.uk

For more information about starting a gap year at St Ives in September, contact nathan.loxley@ salvationarmy.org.uk.

Daring to care for the environment

BIRMINGHAM

A BUZZ of excitement filled the room as management, staff members, volunteers and guests gathered for the Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd (SATCol) annual conference, reports

Editor Major Julian Watchorn

This year’s focus was Dare to Care – for the Environment, with keynote speakers bringing their expertise, backed by data and commendable and creative examples of how SATCoL is environmentally leading the way in its field.

In his opening remarks, Managing Director Trevor Caffull outlined the strategic plan for 2022 to 2027, emphasising the triple bottom line: people, planet and profit. He went on to detail the outstanding performance of the business in the past year, increasing the number of donation centres by 14 with overall shop sales up by 14 per cent. This enabled SATCoL – a strong and vibrant subsidiary of the UKI Salvation Army – to present its parent with a cheque for £10.8 million towards its mission.

SATCoL has been seeking to care for creation for many years and continues to research and utilise cutting-edge technology in this pursuit. This includes Fibresort – which uses laser technology to differentiate the fibres in garments and sort textiles for recycling – and the creation of polyester pellets as part of a circular recycling process. This led to them being nominated for a technology award at the Charity Retail Association awards, along with a nomination for Outstanding Charity Retailer of the Year, a prize that they won in 2022.

In terms of environmental impact, the company has successfully avoided 425,000 tonnes of emissions in the past year. It has set a target to reach zero

emissions by 2040 and is committed to making this a reality.

Guest speaker Professor Mike BernersLee commended SATCoL for its efforts in reducing its environmental footprint, but clearly stated the gravity of the world’s predicament unless there was a commitment from all nations and all peoples to make changes to humankind’s destructive habits.

Lieut-Colonel Alan Read, chair of the SATCoL board, addressed the conference for the last time before his retirement in 2024. He spoke of his personal journey with charity shops and his gratitude for the continuous improvement that he had seen over the years.

The evening saw the premiere of the new musical Belongings. Set in a SATCoL charity shop one stormy day, it tells the stories of characters based on real people who have found shelter, support and love within these precious spaces. It represents the very personal issues that many face within society, such as living with disability, living with dementia, redundancy, homelessness, substance abuse, domestic abuse, grief, depression

Pictures: Andrew King Photography

Lieut-Colonel Alan Read

‘Belongings’

and low self-esteem. As they each reveal something of how they come to be where they are, they are reminded that they are loved – they belong – in Christ. The musical will be performed again at Together 2023 on Friday 14 July.

The day concluded with the awards ceremony, which celebrated the exemplary performance of individuals

and teams across the company’s wide portfolio of activities. The awards were heartfelt and warmly received.

On day two, Territorial Environmental Officer Major Heather Poxon continued the environmental message of Professor Berners-Lee and urged us all to ‘tread softly’. She shared something of the good practice currently employed

within the territory but made clear that we can and must do more to care for creation.

The final guests were the management team from Hadleigh Farm Estate, who told their story of continual pursuit for increased opportunities to engage with mission – including caring for creation, with plans for the creation of a threemile nature corridor through the estate.

In the final session, Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill addressed the conference. Using references to clothing in the Bible, the TC encouraged all present to wear the clothing of their values. With reference to Colossians 3:12 to 17 and Ephesians 6:11 to 17, delegates were encouraged to put on the clothing –the armour – of God. With reference to Matthew 25:31 to 46, they were commended for the way in which they daily demonstrate Christ and serve him as they serve those who seek their help.

During the conference, delegates were invited to record a collective rendition of ‘He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands’ with the assistance of the World of Sound team. Used as a constant thread through the two days, the song epitomised not only the conference but also SATCoL’s ongoing work as it strives to love God in caring for his creation and love others in the outworking of its values: compassion, accountability, respect and equality.

Belongings will be performed at 7.30pm on Friday 14 July at Fairfield Halls, Croydon. To book tickets, go to fairfield.co.uk/events/ salvation-army-ffh

The TC addresses the conference

SATCoL award winners

“ The TC encouraged all present to wear the clothing of their values”

An opportunity to do something different

Shireen Wickham (Personnel Service) tells Salvationist about her experience volunteering for the International Heritage Centre

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SINCE summer 2022, Shireen has been volunteering as a transcriber for the International Heritage Centre (IHC). As an employee of The Salvation Army, she is entitled to spend up to three days a year volunteering in an Army corps or setting.

How did you learn about the Employer Supported Volunteering scheme?

I became aware of it through the Communication Service’s weekly bulletin and decided to have a look through the opportunities available and apply. After spotting a transcribing opportunity on the Army’s Volunteering Resource Hub, I contacted Volunteer Development Manager Wendy Wasels to express my interest. I filled out an application form, signed a volunteer agreement and got started.

What work have you done at the IHC?

The first thing I was involved with was the Florence Booth Diary Transcription Project. Here, I digitally transcribed her 1885 to 1912 diaries and loose pages, covering the period when she was the

head of rescue work and women’s social work. This was to make the diaries available to researchers. Now that the transcription of those is complete, I have started helping with the transcription of Bramwell Booth’s diaries.

What does the role involve?

Receiving images of about 10 pages of the diary at a time, reading and interpreting the handwriting or typing in a specified format. I have to include exactly what is written, including any misspellings. You gradually get used to the handwriting, the nicknames they use for family members and the way the writer expresses themselves. Referring to a particular captain, Bramwell wrote: ‘[I] don’t like her manner or her hat.’ Thankfully, I can mark up any words I am unable to decipher and someone else will check the transcription!

Why did you volunteer at the IHC?

Because I am a bit of a history buff with a particular interest in Victorian social history. This is something I got into several years ago, having spent some time researching my family tree. This included searching through microfiche documents at the National Archives in Jamaica and London and trying to interpret old handwriting.

How have you found the opportunity to volunteer?

I have really enjoyed the project because I find old diaries fascinating. Reading these diaries from the 1800s gives a real insight into their lives at the time and the early days of the Army. They reveal how new social projects and corps were being started and developed, with all the challenges they faced as they did so. It’s a remote volunteering role, so I can fit it in around other things.

I had intended to stop once the Florence Booth diaries were complete and I had used up my volunteer hours. Then I heard they would be moving on to the Bramwell Booth diaries and, because of curiosity and receiving a fresh allowance of volunteer hours in April, I couldn’t say no!

Would you recommend volunteering to other people?

I also started learning to tap dance in 2016 and discovered that it had a rich and vibrant history in the USA – way beyond Fred and Ginger! – and found myself looking into that, reading lots of books and blogging about it, and eventually joining the Tap Dance Research Network UK, which holds events and talks through the year.

My job as administrator for records in the Officer Department of the Personnel Service also involves a bit of historical research, which sometimes means liaising with the IHC for information and reading and interpreting old documents.

time researc included sea a Jamaica and I also start dis and vibrant h Fred lookin books and b jo Research Ne events and t a the Officer D wh and

I would definitely recommend taking up the opportunity to volunteer because you will gain new skills and experiences, or it might be a chance to use skills you already have. Volunteering builds your confidence and you may meet or interact with new people. If you are a Salvation Army employee, you are entitled to a number of volunteer hours each year, so why not take the opportunity to do something different?

Visit salvationarmy.org.uk/volunteer to find out about opportunities to volunteer with The Salvation Army.

Haverhill A link to the community

FAST FACTS

DIVISION: East of England

CORPS LEADERS:

Territorial Envoys

Alison and Russell Day

FIND US ONLINE: facebook.com/ TheLinkHaverhill

A VISIONARY GOD AT WORK

Russell and I moved here in July 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic. We have responsibility for Haverhill Corps, which is small and not centrally located, but God had wider plans from the outset.

In his wisdom, God gave me a strong and specific vision in September 2020. He told me that he wanted me to take one of the empty shops on the high street, open a community hub to help people make connections in the community and provide a listening ear to all.

It has taken a lot of effort – and much longer than anticipated – to get The Link up and running, due to funding and premises challenges. But God proved faithful in his focus. We have seen so many prayers answered along the way.

COLLABORATING WITH THE COMMUNITY

We put feelers out to see if this was something that other people thought was needed. Unbeknown to us, the West Suffolk community had been thinking about a community hub for quite some time and it seems our arrival was a well-timed God-incidence. Good responses were received from churches and local organisations, and we networked from there. DHQ was also extremely supportive.

The Link relies on collaborative working in partnership with many groups across the region. Because of this supportive working, our small corps can offer this service and we feel this is

something that could potentially be replicated by other corps as a form of service and pastoral outreach.

AVAILABLE TO ALL

The Link does what it says – it connects people to services, groups and help that they need, regardless of their background, beliefs or lifestyle. It is a welcoming, accessible space for those who might not feel comfortable in a church building.

We get a wide variety of people coming in. Health and finance concerns are the most frequent enquiries. We work with the local food bank and distribute parcels for them one afternoon a week. We’re in the centre of the town, with two offices, which allows for services and charities to use our office spaces to meet clients on a

one-to-one basis when needed. We have a community lounge where some charities and the police hold drop-in sessions. A new recycling drop-in is starting soon as part of our caring for God’s creation.

RECORDING AND REFERENCING

We are a holistic service, bringing together signposting to the groups, services and activities in our database – which has nearly 500 entries – with pastoral care and listening. Every type of enquiry and dialogue has its own reference code and we keep a record of the enquiries we handle for reporting purposes and to support funding applications, and that includes spiritual conversations. Our mascot, Chris the dog, even has his own reference code as a lot of people come in initially just to meet him!

A VITAL TEAM OF VOLUNTEERS

Our team of volunteers includes a mix of Christians and non-Christians and they undertake a variety of roles. They are bonded by a shared passion for The Link and are vital to its success. We let the town’s Volunteer Centre use one of the offices three mornings a week, which helps point volunteers in our direction as well.

The Link is a neutral and welcoming space for the whole community. Most listeners here are from the corps or other local churches, so there’s that important connection – there’s always a Christian on hand to help!

Territorial Envoy Russell

Territorial Envoy Alison

ENVIRONMENT

A bright, green legacy

LEIGH-ON-SEA

THE corps is fitting solar panels to its hall, thanks to a generous donor wanting to leave a lasting green legacy for future generations.

The Salvation Army in the UKI Territory recently declared a climate emergency and has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling climate change as part of the territory’s mission priority to care for creation.

So far, 18 other Salvation Army properties also have solar panels installed. – AR

For more information on the Army’s response to climate change, visit salvationist.org.uk/environment

MUSIC

REMEMBRANCE

BIRMINGHAM CITADEL Members of the West Midlands

Divisional Youth Band and Nexus Youth Chorus paid tribute to Leeroy Gotami, who was promoted to Glory at the age of 22. They were joined by the Birmingham members of African Praise Fellowship Zimbabwe, of which Leeroy was a member. All the groups played items from their current repertoires and joined together in massed items. The evening, which included a bake sale, raised more than £1,000 for Epilepsy Society and the divisional summer school. – RO

MEETING

GILLINGHAM More than 50 women from corps and churches met for a women’s breakfast. William Booth College Principal Lieut-Colonel Judith Payne spoke on the theme Garden of My Heart, focusing on Song of Songs. Corps member Hannah Whittaker led a workshop on making paper flowers. – JM

CHESTER-LE-STREET Following a concert organised by corps member Alan Taylor, a cheque for £3,150 was presented by councillor Tracie Smith to St Cuthbert’s Hospice. The concert featured music from Houghton Brass, including ‘Goldcrest’ and ‘Faith Reborn’, along with vocal performances accompanied by pianist Chinami Smith. The final benediction was given by bandswoman and songster Lesley Hayle. – GC

VOLUNTEERING

SALE All the volunteers present at a special Sunday thank you service received certificates of appreciation. The celebrations continued during the week as more than 50 volunteers attended a lunch organised by Community Manager Rachel Steward. Corps officer Major Donald Montgomery said, ‘We simply couldn’t do all we do without our amazing volunteer team. They are all awesome!’ – AM

EVENT

WEST SCOTLAND About 150 guests gathered for an annual spring celebration for adult and family ministry groups across the division. Major James Williams brought a strong challenge from Scripture, reminding all present of the richness of God’s provision. Olwyn Mathie (Bellshill) provided delightful vocal solos and Chaplain Julie Taylor (Hamilton) spoke of her work with Ukrainian refugees. – PB

ECUMENICAL

STRAWBERRY FIELD Inspired by the Eurovision Song Contest, the churches of Liverpool joined together in the name of peace, united in music, prayer and worship. Prayer stations and prayer walks took place across the city. The Metropolitan Cathedral hosted united worship, with Liverpool Walton Band contributing alongside the Metropolitan Cathedral and Anglican Cathedral choirs as well as Methodist worship group New Song Wirral. At Strawberry Field, a dry pub was erected to provide a space for conversation, activities and games. A 100-strong children’s choir that included members of the local Ukrainian children’s choir sang by the recently installed Ukrainian peace monument. It was a busy, blessed week. – AV

MEETING

IPSWICH CITADEL The corps celebrated its young people as they showed their talents in timbrel playing, singing, reading the Bible and leading prayers. They were presented with prizes by Jackie Jarrold, who led the meeting. – DC

MUSIC

WINTON Bournemouth Area Fellowship Band presented a Friday evening gala concert with guests from the Epiphany Church of England School Choir. Music included euphonium solo ‘That’s the Spirit’ from Michael Gibbs. Band Executive Officer Commissioner Charles Swansbury concluded the evening with a reflective message, and a cheque for more than £1,000 was presented to Macmillan Caring Locally. – MR

COMMUNITY

TWICKENHAM Corps officers Lieutenants Emily and Joel Watson participated in a Rotary community fair with a Salvation Army stall distributing balloons and literature and talking with people in the community. – EW

CLITHEROE The Music Man Project in Lancashire launched at the corps in a bid to provide an inclusive, safe and confidenceboosting music service for children and adults with learning disabilities and their carers. The monthly sessions encourage participants to sing and provide opportunities to play instruments to encourage wellbeing, inclusion and interaction. Fourteen people attended the first session, including some who had no prior engagement with the Army. – AP

MUSIC FUNDRAISING

CLOWNE The corps held a successful spring fair that coincided with the arrival of the new corps officer, Captain Elaine Huddlestone. Stalls offering handcrafted and pre-loved items were supplemented by a baker and other traders. More than 110 people attended and the event raised £655 for corps funds. – GH

WREXHAM

BALLYMONEY

STOWMARKET

GLOUCESTER

CHRISTINE Smith was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Major Gareth Heward. When working in Australia, she came across an open-air meeting on the beach. She followed the group to the hall, where she found comfort. After returning to the UK to remake contact with her parents, she went to the Army and found warmth and friendship, reaffirming her relationship with God. She is a keen volunteer, looking to show God’s love in action. Also pictured is Recruiting Sergeant Jean White. – AB

MICAH was enrolled as a junior soldier by his mum, corps officer Major Jane-Marie. Micah shared his testimony with words from one of his favourite songs: ‘God’s not dead, no! He is alive and I know that he’s living in me.’ Also pictured are his big brother, Daniel, and his dad, corps officer

BRIDLINGTON

GAINSBOROUGH

NINE junior soldiers were enrolled during an Easter Day meeting led by Divisional Mission Enablers Majors Kim and Stephen Wilson. – CD

AYINOLA Nancy Alabi, Oluwatoyin Victoria Bakare, Andrea Ibbotson, Rose Bunce and Stephen King (pictured left to right) were welcomed as adherents by corps officers Majors Colin and Denise Bradshaw. Each of them gave their own testimonies as to how far they have come in their faith journeys. Also pictured is Recruiting Sergeant Major Chris Standing. – PH

Captain Tim. – J-MC

JANE Dickinson and Darren Marshall were welcomed as adherents by corps officer Major Barbara Jeffery on Easter Day. Jane and Darren had both returned to the Army after several years away. – BJ

LIZ Warren, June Davis, Celia Easlea and Doris Hackworthy were welcomed as adherents by corps officer Major Kevin Pitt. They are pictured with Major Kevin and Adherents Secretary Gwen Cracknell. – MB

GENERAL SHAW CLIFTON

Further divisional leadership followed in Massachusetts, USA Eastern Territory, where Lieut-Colonel Clifton served for two years before a further overseas appointment took him to the Pakistan Territory and the role of territorial commander, with the rank of colonel. He served there for almost five years, receiving the rank of commissioner on 30 March 2000.

affectionate affirmation. Her patient interest in the project has done much to revive a measure of self-confidence and a sense of motivation.’

THE son of officer-parents, Shaw Clifton was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, on 21 September 1945. His childhood years were spent in various parts of the UK as his parents were faithful to the Army’s appointment system. He later studied law at King’s College, University of London, gaining a bachelor of law (honours) degree. Together with his wife, Helen, whom he met at the age of 12 in his home corps of Edmonton, he entered the training college as a cadet in the Blood and Fire Session and was commissioned on 5 July 1973.

His first appointment as a corps officer was at Burnt Oak, where he served for just a few months before being appointed to International Headquarters, where he undertook further studies, achieving a first-class honours bachelor of divinity degree. He was also awarded the King’s College, London Relton prize for biblical and historical studies.

In July 1974, remaining at IHQ, Lieutenant Clifton was appointed to the Literary Department, where he served for six months before being appointed to Mazowe Secondary School, Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). He remained there until May 1977, becoming its viceprincipal in November 1975.

May 1977 saw a move to corps officership at Bulawayo Citadel, where he received the rank of captain in July of that year. In January 1979, Captains Shaw and Helen returned to the United Kingdom and served at Enfield until May 1982.

A return to IHQ followed, with Captain Shaw Clifton’s appointment as legal and parliamentary secretary, which he held for the next seven years, receiving the rank of major in May 1989. While in this appointment he gained a PhD in the history of religion, again from University of London. His thesis eventually led to the 2015 book Crown of Glory, Crown of Thorns: The Salvation Army in Wartime

A return to corps officership, this time to Bromley Temple, was undertaken from June 1989 until May 1992, before Major Shaw was appointed as divisional commander, Durham and Tees Division.

Two further appointments as territorial commander followed, firstly in the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory, from March 2002 until June 2004, and then in the UKI Territory until his election as the 18th General of The Salvation Army, which responsibility commenced on 2 April 2006. He served in this capacity until his retirement from active officership service on 1 April 2011.

During his term as General, Shaw Clifton led the international Salvation Army through a significant period of growth, with ministry commencing in 13 countries. His passion for social justice led to the creation of the International Social Justice Commission. He advocated constantly for women in spiritual leadership, refusing to consider new divisional commander, training principal or Territorial Cabinet appointments unless women were put forward in equal measure to men. High Council membership was enlarged to ensure the just representation of women officers.

Shortly after his retirement, on 14 June 2011, General Shaw Clifton faced considerable personal loss with the promotion to Glory of Commissioner Helen Clifton, who battled cancer for a short but devastating period. They had shared married life and ministry for almost 44 years. Recalling their mere 10 weeks in retirement together in his autobiographical essays Something Better…, he writes, ‘Now I would devote myself round the clock to caring for Helen until the Lord took her home to Heaven… Caring for her and tending to her needs was a privilege even more sacred, more eternally significant than being the General.’ It is fitting that the personally crafted mercy seat in the meeting room at IHQ stands as a permanent physical memorial to Helen.

In September 2013, General Clifton married Commissioner (Ellen) Birgitte Brekke, to whom he pays written tribute in the introduction to Something Better… He writes, ‘Commissioner Birgitte Brekke … has been a ready source of

In those same essays, echoed in other written insights on marriage and family life, General Clifton expresses his love and admiration for his children and children-in-law, and devoted prayerful interest in his eight precious grandchildren.

In addition to his undoubtedly strong leadership qualities, General Clifton will be remembered for his clear, sharp mind, undergirded by a pastoral spirit of sensitivity and compassion, which was appreciated and valued by those who knew him. He was also a man of considerable literary skill, and a prolific writer. Among many others, his literary publications include Strong Doctrine, Strong Mercy, Growing Together (with Helen Clifton) and Something Better…, the latter being a series of autobiographical essays which ‘reveal much of his own heart and mind, as well as much about the Army that was raised up by God.’

Who Are These Salvationists? and New Love reveal holiness teaching in the tradition of Samuel Logan Brengle as the true heart of General Clifton’s spiritual life and Salvationism. A major 30-month project in retirement was volume nine of The History of The Salvation Army. He continued writing until his final days, producing a nine-volume series of Twenty Talks…, the last two of which await publication. His commissioning of a new Handbook of Doctrine and Song Book of The Salvation Army arose from deep convictions about the crucial place of both in Salvation Army life.

During his officership, General Clifton served on The Salvation Army’s Doctrine Council and International Spiritual Life Commission. He was a founding member of the UKI Territory’s Moral and Social Issues Council and visiting lecturer at the International College for Officers from 1979 until well into retirement, lecturing also at William Booth College.

In giving thanks to God for the life and service of General Shaw Clifton, we offer our sincere condolences and the assurance of our prayers to his wife, Commissioner Birgitte Brekke-Clifton, and children, Matthew, Jennifer and John, and their families. The legacy of his life and ministry will remain with many people, both in the UK and around the world.

ARMY PEOPLE ENGAGEMENTS

Local officers appointed

YPBL DEAN DAVOLL , Sale

CRADLE ROLL SGT MAUREEN

THEOBALD, Long Eaton

DEP SL PAUL SIMPSON, Guisborough

SCL NATALIE EASTON, Chelmsford

ASST SCL FIONA NORMAN, Chelmsford

Wedding anniversaries

Platinum (70 years)

MAJORS JEAN AND ROY SMITH on 20 June

Golden (50 years)

MAJORS ANNE AND STUART CRANE on 7 July

Retired officers’ birthdays

MAJOR MARGARET FARRANT, 85 on 1 July

MAJOR LILIAN BIRCH , 90 on 5 July

LIEUT-COLONEL KEITH HOWARTH , 85 on 6 July

MAJOR JACQUILINE PELL , 90 on 8 July

MAJOR MARGARET ANDERSON, 80 on 10 July

CAPTAIN BRIAN EDMONDS, 85 on 11 July

Official Gazette

Long service – 35 years

LIEUT-COLONEL JOÃO PAULO

RAMOS, West Midlands DHQ

General Brian Peddle and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle

Wed 21 Jun – Sun 25 Jun The Netherlands, Czech Republic and Slovakia

Thu 29 Jun Canada

Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill and Commissioner Gill Cotterill

Sun 2 Jul Westminster Abbey (Westminster council civic service)

Mon 3 Jul Finnish Church, London (Churches Together in England 4th Presidency Service)*

Sat 8 Jul – Sun 9 Jul Rayleigh

Chief Secretary Colonel Paul Main and Colonel Jenine Main

Sun 25 Jun Tenby

*Commissioner Anthony Cotterill only

NOTICES

Sing to the Lord: Unpacked

This resource accompanies the latest songs from Sing to the Lord (Children’s Voices Series) Volume 29. Each song has a Bible verse, prayer, thought and activity. Personal and group challenges are also available to empower your singers. Download it at salvationist.org.uk/resources

Refugee Sunday

Refugee Week (19 to 25 June) celebrates the contributions of refugees and asylum seekers to our lives, society and culture. Churches are encouraged to dedicate one of the Sundays either side of World Refugee Day (20 June) as Refugee Sunday. Why not share how you’re recognising the week on social media? Tag @salvationarmyuk and use #RefugeeWeek or #RefugeesContribute

Prayer Matters

The Prayer Network’s July to September edition of its daily prayer resource is now available at salvationist.org.uk as a PDF or text-only version. Each prayer ties into a weekly theme that covers specific areas in the territory, current worldwide situations and injustices, as well as personal reflection and relationship with God. The daily devotions will continue to be printed each week in Salvationist

National Month of Prayer for Parent-and-Toddler Groups

This ecumenical initiative happens every June. Churches, individuals and toddler communities are encouraged to pray in groups, for groups and across groups in the UK. Download resources from salvationist.org.uk/resources

SOUNDS

Sunday Worship

COMMISSIONER

ANTHONY COTTERILL

Territorial Commander

Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays on Salvationist Radio? Catch up with our weekly podcast of Sunday Worship highlights, including music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. Each week’s broadcast is also repeated in full on Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.

Listen at salvationist.org.uk/radio

GOVAN CORPS, 44 GOLSPIE STREET G51 3EW

Sunday 25 June, 4.30pm

VALEDICTORY SERVICE FOR THE WEST SCOTLAND DIVISION

Incorporating the retirement from active service of Majors Pat and Ray Brown and Major Dean Logan

Led by Major Fiona Partland with Commissioner Keith Banks and featuring the Divisional Youth Band and Youth Chorus

Messages of greeting by email to westscotland@salvationarmy.org.uk or by mail to West Scotland DHQ, 4 Buchanan Court, Stepps G33 6HZ

ABERTILLERY, HILL STREET NP13 1DU

All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and carried at the editor’s discretion. For more details email advertising@ salvationarmy.org.uk.

Saturday 24 June, 7pm

CORPS 140TH ANNIVERSARY

South and Mid Wales Fellowship Band

Admission free, voluntary collection

Sunday worship at 10.30am

SITTINGBOURNE, SHORTLANDS ROAD ME10 3JT

Saturday 1 July, 7pm

Music for a summer’s evening: visit of

BROMLEY TEMPLE BAND

Donation offering in aid of the Big Collection

RAYLEIGH, 146-148 HIGH STREET SS6 7BU

Corps centenary

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF MINISTRY IN THE TOWN

Saturday 8 July, 7pm – Musical celebration evening

Sunday 9th July 10am – Service of celebration

with guests territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gillian Cotterill

Contact 01268 771752 / rayleigh@salvationarmy.org.uk

Dates worth remembering.

• Online discussions

• Inspiring conferences

• Territorial networks

salvationist.org.uk/events

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

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

There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord