Salvationist 24 nov 2012 by The Salvation Army UK and Ireland

SALVATIONIST

Essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army // www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 24 November 2012 // No. 1374 // Price 60p // Also available digitally

Pages 11 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 13

CONTENTS 3.

FROM THE ASSISTANT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

11. – 13.

4. PAPERS This week’s quotes from the papers 5. – 9. NEWS USA Southern // THQ // Belgium // Whitehall // Norwich Citadel // L’Islet and St Peter Port // Leek // Abertillery // Hadleigh Temple // Pill // Otley // Cirencester // Histon // Gravesend // Maldon // Pokesdown // Knottingley // Hordon // Chatham // London Central // Mablethorpe // Tiverton // Batley // Skewen // Sale // Poole // Doncaster // Bolton // Sunderland Monkwearmouth // Blackpool Citadel //

10. NEWS FEATURE/FAQs Digital papers to reach new readers 11. – 13. West-side stories 14. & 15. God’s way with me

FEATURE

ICO FEATURE

16. BIBLE STUDY God’s redeeming journey 17.

LETTERS

18. & 19. NEW COMMITMENTS 20. & 21. ANNOUNCEMENTS Army people, engagements and tributes 22. & 23. 24.

ADVERTS THROUGH THE WEEK WITH SALVATIONIST

Salvationist 24 November 2012

FROM THE ASSISTANT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

THE REVOLUTION NOW BEGIN IT was The War Cry of 14 April 1894 that first brought those words of William Booth to the Army world. More than 100 years later, this week The War Cry, Salvationist and Kids Alive! join the digital revolution. Just as the Founder’s ‘Thou Christ Of Burning, Cleansing Flame’ – the song from which the line comes – has been re-energised through a power-chord thrash (I write as a guitarist), so the territory’s papers are bursting with good news for those who like to hold the whole world wide web in their hands. From today, wherever a reader is in the world – and Salvationist has many international readers – they will be able to access their favourite read at the touch of a screen. From this issue, each of the papers is available via an app on Apple and Android smartphones and tablets. Revolution is costly. So from the Elephant and Castle, let’s shoot the elephant in the room – the digital versions are not replacing the printed papers. The papers are going digital to reach those who reach first for their device for news and for the generation that doesn’t stop to buy a War Cry in the street but that needs to hear the gospel nevertheless. Everybody clear? Revolution is groundbreaking. UKT is leading the way in digital publication. Ours is the first digital War Cry in the world. Ours are the UK’s first evangelical Christian newspapers to go digital. Revolution is risky. Time, thought and money has been invested. We do not know whether we will get one new reader or one million. Yes – really – one million. Now the

papers are globally easily available there is every reason to think big. Revolutions are uprisings. Arise a mighty Army! Will we? The spadework of cost and the risk will not produce a harvest unless readers join in. Even if we personally prefer to read black ink on white, bright, odourless paper, each of us can spread the word to our digitally connected friends. We can tell them about the free digital samples. We can gift them a year’s subscription. We can recruit them to join the revolution. In his song ‘Revolution’, lyricist (and guitarist) John Lennon wrote: You say you got a real solution, Well, you know We’d all love to see the plan. You ask me for a contribution, Well, you know We’re doing what we can. In going digital, the Editorial Department has produced a real solution. Here is the plan. We are asking for a contribution – will you be doing what you can? For, as the Founder might have put it: Why should the Devil have all the best iTunes? MAJOR NIGEL BOVEY, EDITOR, ‘THE WAR CRY’ DIGITAL PUBLISHING CO-ORDINATOR

SALVATIONIST

DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza – (tel) 020 7367 4896

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN (tel) 020 7367 4890 (tel) 0845 634 0101 (fax) 020 7367 4691 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jonathan Carmichael – (tel) 020 7367 4883

MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891 ASSISTANT EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley – (tel) 020 7367 4892 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Laura Barker – (tel) 020 7367 4893 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Kersten Rieder – (tel) 020 7367 4894 DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter – (tel) 020 7367 4895

ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino – (tel) 020 7367 4881 ADVERTISING (tel) 020 7367 4883 (email) advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH (tel) 01933 445451 (fax) 01933 445415 (email) keith.jennings@sp-s.co.uk

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

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Linda Bond TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner André Cox EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Leanne Ruthven

A registered newspaper published weekly by The Salvation Army (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) on behalf of the General of The Salvation Army and printed by Wyndeham Grange, Southwick. © Linda Bond, General of The Salvation Army, 2012.

Salvationist Day Month Year

PAPERS

THIS WEEKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS POPE TO SET UP OFFICIAL TWITTER ACCOUNT Once the Vatican launches Pope Benedict XVIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s official Twitter feed before the end of the year, it is hoped that all the fake papal tweets will stop, a Vatican official has said. There are dozens of unofficial @Pope Benedict handles and usernamesâ&#x20AC;Ś on Twitter. Many are using an official portrait of the Pope as their picture and some have thousands of followers. The Catholic Herald

OLYMPICS â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;STRESS THE CHURCHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PASTORAL ROLEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

The Olympics showed that churches need to do more to provide a better ministry to sportspeople, the Bishop of Norwich has said. In a debate in the House of Lords on the Olympic legacy, Bishop Graham James pointed to the number of athletes who publicly displayed their faith during the summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Games... â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;Ś I do not recall anything like so many athletes crossing themselves or falling to their knees to pray as there were during the London Olympics.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; The Church of England Newspaper

WE ARE THE ULTIMATE FEMINISTS, SAYS NEW HEAD OF GIRL GUIDES A leading campaigner for abortion rights and greater access to contraception has become the new head of the Girl Guides. Julie Bentley, who has run the Family Planning Association for the past five years, said that the job of chief executive of Girlguiding is the natural extension of her work in sexual health and calls Guides â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the ultimate feminist organisationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. The Times

PRIEST BITES OFF COLLEAGUEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S EAR A priest, 80, bit off the ear of a fellow elderly clergyman in a parking dispute in Perth, Australiaâ&#x20AC;Ś After the fight [the priest] told his victimâ&#x20AC;Ś to pick something up off the ground. [The victim] only realised it was his ear when he got home. The Catholic Herald

THIS WEEKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WAR CRY AND KIDS ALIVE!

War Cry y THE

salvationarmy.org.uk/warcry

24 November 2012

Est 1879

No 7092

FIGHTING FOR HEARTS AND SOULS

20p/25c 2 0p/25c 0 /25

BEAR NECESSITIES Bear Grylls says faith is a backbone

R5 .)( -5 (-5! .5 &)- 5.)5." #,5" ,) -

24 November 2012

Kids Alive! â&#x20AC;&#x201C; formerly The Young Soldier â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Issue No 6824

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/kids

R5 ..#(!5, 35 ),5 555* (.)'#' 5- -)(

Page 8

MOSS FREE THE STONES HAVE BEEN ROLLING FOR 50 YEARS writes ANDREW STONE

Northfoto/Shutterstock.com

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S only rockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;roll but for half a century the Rolling Stones have been giving their fans plenty of musical satisfaction. The bandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s origins go back to an afternoon when, according to Keith Richards, the tumbling dice of chance saw him bump into Mick Jagger at Moving like Jagger â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Mick in action

Turn to page 3

Salvationist 17 November 2012

R5 ,5 ,3&&-5- 3-5 #."5#-5"#-5 % )( R55 **35 #,." 35 -5 \ ,5 ,3]5!) -5)(5 .)5-' ,.*")( -5 ( 5. & .-

10 Th in gs to Sp ot AT â&#x20AC;Ś

FIRST FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT IMAGES.

Last part of KA! JAM series God Sets the Standard

R5 " .5 # 5 ) 5*,)'#- 5 55 ) ">5 5."#-51 %]-5 55 # & 5 ,.))(5 5 R5 <5" -5!)( 5 #!#. &575 55 " %5)/.5." 5 .-5 5 R5 (. ,5." 5\ ,."/,5 55 ",#-.' -]5 )'* .#.#)(

NEWS New book shines light on RSA THQ

The General leads celebrations in Florida USA SOUTHERN MORE than 2,000 soldiers and officers refused to be kept away by Hurricane Sandy as they crowded into Countryside Christian Centre in Clearwater for the Florida Division Soldiers Rally led by General Linda Bond. The General was supported by USA national leaders Commissioners William and Nancy Roberts, territorial leaders Commissioners David and Barbara Jeffrey and divisional leaders Lieut-Colonels Vern and Martha Jewett. Stirring testimonies were shared by three soldiers, including Corps Sergeant-Major Brian Smith (Orlando) who told the congregation: ‘For 30 years I lived under a bridge, a needle stuck in my arm. Then one day I went to the Salvation Army men’s lodge for the night. It was there I heard someone talking about the adult rehabilitation centre. It was there Christ transformed my life.’ So complete was Brian’s turnaround that last year he was named the Divisional Man of the Year and the Territorial Man of the Year. The General rallied the troops in her message: ‘We need you to sign up and get involved,’ she said. ‘Blood and fire soldiers for a battle-ready Army. This is no time for soft service.’ Responding to her challenge, seekers streamed to the mercy seat.

The Salvation Army in St Petersburg, Florida, was opened in 1912. In 2012, hundreds of Salvationists, friends and wellwishers joined the General to celebrate a centenary of service. The occasion also included the celebration of Lieut-Colonel Bernard Lodge’s 100th birthday. In her message, the General said: ‘We have an awesome heritage... we glory in the Lord, knowing what makes The Salvation Army great is the blessing of God. The Army is his idea, from his very heart.’ She added: ‘We cannot dream big enough dreams for our future. God will surpass our past.’ Soon after arriving in Florida the General dedicated to God the Centre for Holiness Studies, the first such institution in The Salvation Army. The centre, located at Camp Keystone, blossomed from an original idea articulated by soldiers of the division following a divisional holiness retreat in 2008. As the vision took shape and was moulded by Divisional Commander Lieut-Colonel Vern Jewett, three objectives were created: 1. The development of curriculum for holiness study beginning with basic instruction and moving deeper into biblical and doctrinal studies on a wide range of holiness topics; 2. Ongoing opportunities for soldiers and corps groups to pursue holiness studies in individual and group settings; 3. The establishment of an annual holiness institute for

soldiers to be hosted at Camp Keystone. In his opening remarks, LieutColonel Jewett shared that the centre’s goal is to promote holiness of heart as a hallmark of Salvationist life. The General told the congregation: ‘Holiness means to be an authentic Christian. It means that Jesus Christ has chosen to enter our flesh and blood in order to live out his life in our personality... This centre, then, must be more than bricks and mortar. To accomplish God’s purpose it must live and breathe and come alive as a place that promotes and demonstrates and allows for the Holy Spirit to do his supreme work in our Army by filling its soldiers.’ Following the ribbon cutting the crowd toured the state-ofthe-art facility, which includes a library and media centre, classrooms and a lecture hall, places for quiet reflection and offices for support staff. – A. S.

A band abroad BELGIUM CANTERBURY Band visited Quaregnon for the 120th corps anniversary celebrations. The band was joined by members of Brussels 2 Band in a march to the town square and the cemetery to visit the grave of the pioneer of the Army in the former Belgian Congo. They made a considerable impact by presenting a concert in the main square of neighbouring Mons,

A UNIQUE new book, published in time for Christmas, celebrates the life and work of Lieut-Colonel Ray SteadmanAllen (OF) – one of few Salvation Army personalities recognisable simply by his initials. In his foreword to History, Harmony And Humanity, Ronald Holz calls RSA ‘the most gifted, prolific and forwardlooking talent’ in 60 years of Salvation Army music. Part of the book is autobiography, in which RSA tells the story of his 90 years in his own words. But there’s much more than that. It also includes appreciation and analysis from major figures in Salvation Army music and the wider brass band world, along with revealing insights into RSA’s vocation as a Salvation Army officer and minister of the gospel. RSA’s daughter Barbara has gathered a host of family, colleagues, academics and practitioners as contributors to this suite of articles. Each of them shines their own light on this most creative and innovative Christian artist and personality, so that every reader will find surprises and revelations in these pages. History, Harmony And Humanity is published by the UKT’s Shield Books and is available from SP&S at £12.95. – A. R. where the Army is little known. Later, a near capacity audience attended an anniversary concert, at which the territorial leaders of France and Belgium, Colonels Massimo and Jane Paone, and Chief Secretary Lieut-Colonel Sylvie Arnal were present. Sunday morning activities took place outside the hall, where the band, supported by some members of Quaregnon Band, played in the middle of a street market while hot dogs were served to passers-by. – G. B.

Salvationist 24 November 2012

NEWS Musical charms family and friends CHATHAM IN the space of ten hours, kids at the corps prepared, rehearsed and performed The Giant Slayer, a musical based on the story of David and Goliath. The day moved steadily through 30-minute sessions of music, drama and crafts. In the evening the children performed for family and friends at a school in the community. The event was met with much enthusiasm and was a great opportunity for the kids to get to know each other better. On Sunday, the children sang two songs for those who were unable to attend on Saturday. – M. S.

Youth gather for fun and fellowship LONDON CENTRAL FROM throughout the division, young people and leaders gathered for an annual youth day to share in fellowship and explore the boundless love of Jesus. Workshops included vocal, self-defence, cake decorating, crafts and football. A graffiti wall in the prayer room was set aside for personal reflection throughout the day. The divisional emergency vehicle provided food, and musicians from Clapton supported Divisional Youth Officer Captain Susan Woodgate in her message; many young people came forward in response. In the final session Divisional Commander Lieut-Colonel Melvin Fincham presented the football cup to Kilburn youth. – I. W. Batley scouts Melissa Powell, David Knott, Sebastian Duffy and Zayne Cloete are proud recipients of the Chief Scout’s Gold Award; they are supported by leaders Neil Bolland, Matthew Duffy, Kate Barton and Catherine Kirkham

CSM Fred Simms receives the Family Florence Scott

and Community Service Award,

receives the Mike

presented by the Rotary Club of

Woodhouse

Mablethorpe and Louth, for his

Attendance Award

outstanding service to the community

at Chatham for

and loyal ministry within and beyond

Dudley Salvationists bring encouragement as they lead meetings

best attendance

the corps

at Tiverton

Salvationist 24 November 2012

NEWS Give us this day our daily bread SKEWEN CAPTAIN Elizabeth Hayward (THQ) led Sunday worship and shared her experiences of travelling to 48 different countries, including Iraq and Afghanistan, as part of her involvement in the Army’s international emergency services. Her message focused on bread as not only a physical staple, but a spiritual one, connecting this to the Lord’s Prayer. The songsters sang ‘If You Call Me, Lord’ and the band played ‘They Need Christ’ to frame the day’s theme. – S. L.

The Band of the King’s Division holds an open practice at

DONCASTER: The Yorkshire Fellowship Band and Yorkshire Divisional Youth Band joined together in concert to fundraise for the DREAM project initiated by the corps. The Doncaster Relevant Evolving African Mission supports various Army projects in Africa. The repertoire included ‘Great And Glorious’ and ‘Rosehill’, raising more than £500 for the cause. – R. A.

Blackpool Citadel, raising £300 in donations for the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association Big Brew

Anniversary extravaganza POOLE LIGHTHOUSE BLACK Dyke Band joined Winton Band at Poole’s centre for the arts for a musical extravaganza to celebrate the 125th band anniversary. Black Dyke entered playing the stirring piece ‘When Thunder Calls’ and corps officer Major Paul Johnson welcomed the bands and offered prayer. Black Dyke commanded the first half with amazing solos from Richard Marshall (cornet) playing ‘Fairies Of The Water’ and Sheona White (tenor horn) with ‘Cappricio Brillante’. Gary Curtain (euphonium) offered a humorous piece displaying all the possibilities available on his

instrument. The first half concluded with a narration of ‘Trafalgar’ read by Matthew Routley, portraying the story of the battle, while the band played descriptive music in the background. Winton Band took to the stage in the second half to play ‘Prelude On Tallis’ and ‘To The Chief Musician’. The final solo piece by Black Dyke was ‘Riverdance’, which set

everyone’s feet tapping and hands clapping. For the finale, the bands united for two Army favourites, ‘Marching Onward’ and the rousing march ‘Celebration’. The terrific sound filled the hall with wonderful music, bringing the 125th anniversary celebration to a fantastic conclusion. The evening raised £950 for the Big Collection and Army work in Ukraine. – G. T.

Sunderland Monkwearmouth Singing Company and YP Band lead Jarrow’s 134th corps anniversary celebrations

POOLE: A 40-piece male voice choir, comprising choir members from Poole, Devon and Bristol, contributed to a programme, which also featured the band. Proceeds from the concert were divided between Christian Prison Resources Ministries and the Big Collection. – G. G. SALE: The band presented a concert in Ashton-under-Lyne in aid of Christ Church’s restoration fund. The programme featured Joanne James (vocal) and Dean Davoll (trombone). Nigel Reece contributed a pause for thought. – E. Y. BOLTON: Harvest celebrations commenced on Saturday evening with a progressive supper, for which several people opened their homes to provide meals. Lieutenant Laura McLean (St Helens) led Harvest Sunday meetings, where she challenged listeners to think about their own field of harvest, basing her message on Luke 10:2. – G. F.

Salvationist 24 November 2012

NEWS

Guernsey remembers L’ISLET AND ST PETER PORT THE united congregations of Guernsey hosted and led a On Remembrance Sunday Salvation Army representatives arrive back at Horse Guards Parade following the march past the cenotaph in Whitehall

service of remembrance for the Royal British Legion. Corps folk welcomed members of uniformed organisations from across the island and two Chelsea Pensioners representing The Royal Hospital Chelsea (pictured with corps officers Majors Claire and Jamie Hill). All sections provided uplifting music. Earlier that day the united band played at the War Memorial in St Peter Port where wreaths were laid. Later, St Peter Port Band was on duty at the Prosperity Memorial to commemorate victims of the 1974 disaster. – J. H.

Leek Band plays reflective music at Nicholson Memorial Monument for the service of remembrance

Mr D. Haw from the Royal Engineers Association

Junior soldier Tyler Gibbons

proudly displays his service

represents the Army at Pill by

medals as he stands in front

sounding Last Post and

of the Army’s emergency unit

Abertillery Band plays for the remembrance service at Blaina

Reveille

Festival of unsung heroes

OTLEY: Yorkshire Fellowship Band gave a concert at the Methodist church, Otley, in support of the Royal British Legion for Remembrance Sunday. The programme included ‘Nimrod’ and ‘Under Two Flags’. – R. A.

at Horse Guards Parade on Remembrance Sunday

NORWICH CITADEL: A large crowd gathered at the Norwich war memorial, where Bandsman Matthew Peek sounded Last Post and Reveille. The band led a parade of ex-service personnel, civic and military representatives through the city to Norwich Cathedral. Representatives of the Royal British Legion and other associations attended the Army meeting, with General Lord Richard Dannatt, former Chief of the General Staff, speaking in the evening. – B. C. 6

HADLEIGH TEMPLE A LARGE audience gathered for the annual festival of remembrance, where all sections

Salvationist 24 November 2012

participated along with special guests HMS Nelson Volunteer Band and HMS Nelson Corps of Drums. The re-creation of the Doughnut Girls highlighted the Army’s aid during the First World War and formed part of the entertainment; their minidoughnuts with edible red shield logos proved a popular treat. The Rev Caroline Brown (Hadleigh Parish Church) reminded the congregation of ongoing civil conflicts still raging around the world and the Rev Roland Wort (HMS Drake, Plymouth) led a service of remembrance concluding the festival. – R. B.

CIRENCESTER: Bandsman David Grace sounded Last Post and Reveille, accompanied by the band at Bibury Church Remembrance Day service and Ablington War Memorial. Songster Leader Helen Grace sounded Last Post and Reveille at a nearby village church. – M. G.

NEWS Congregation enjoys band anniversary HISTON CELEBRATIONS for the band’s 90th anniversary began with a reunion tea at the village Baptist church followed by a programme by Hendon Band. The congregation of more than 250 people enjoyed a musical and spiritual feast which included ‘Variations On A Celestial Theme’ and ‘Celebrate And Sing’. The programme featured trombone, flugelhorn, euphonium and piano soloists and a band vocal item ‘Be Still’. Lieut-Colonel Alan Bateman led Sunday worship themed Marching To A Different Beat. The corps sections were reinforced by musicians from Cottenham. Bandmaster Robert Carmichael, pictured with corps officers Majors Debbie and Philip Nield and corps members, received a certificate of recognition for 25 years’ service. – J. C./D. N.

Corps focuses on vision for the future MALDON

Autumn concert raises funds GRAVESEND SOUTH London Fellowship Band presented an autumn concert to a capacity congregation. The varied programme included soloists Adrian Horwood (euphonium) and Alan Moyse (cornet), a cornet and trombone ensemble and moving vocal items by the band, ‘Rock Of Ages’ and ‘God’s Love To Me Is Wonderful’. Bev Hudson brought a time of reflection and the evening concluded with Dean Goffin’s ‘Arise, My Soul, Arise’. A retiring collection raised £722 towards a CCTV system for the hall. – J. H.

Members of Pokesdown Corps meet at Southbourne SATCoL charity shop to pray for the ministry of the lighthouse prayer request box, where customers will be invited to place their prayers

Children at Knottingley learn to make sock puppets for Noah’s ark during a

At Hordon, Ben Rayne meets Andy Peddle on

connect4autumn programme

his walkathon fundraising tour

CAPTAIN Simon Perkin and Major Linda Perkin (Southend Citadel) led 125th corps anniversary meetings. On Saturday evening Southend Citadel Band and Songsters led a festival at the United Reformed church. The varied programme included Andrew Mackereth’s ‘Dance Like David’ and Andrew Blyth’s ‘I Will Rejoice’. During Sunday worship the congregation viewed a multimedia presentation of the corps centenary celebrations when the major was corps officer and the captain a corps member. Their message and challenge for the weekend focused on the hopes and vision of the corps for the present and future. New soldier Fred Witham, pictured with corps members Ursula Gladman and Flo Barrell, signed the flyleaf of a corps Bible purchased together with congregational Bibles that were dedicated during the weekend. More than £900 was raised for this project. – S. H. ABERTILLERY: Abertillery Orpheus Male Choir, supported by cornetist Lucinda Gough, presented a fundraising programme in support of Rebecca Keen, who has cerebral palsy; £440 was raised towards a sensory garden that will improve Rebecca’s quality of life. – A. B. Salvationist 24 November 2012

NEWS FEATURE/FAQs

DIGITAL PAPERS TO REACH NEW READERS

companies and periodical subscriptions are managed by SP&S, refunds cannot be arranged. However, current subscribers who want the digital version can receive a complimentary digital subscription in addition to their printed copy until their print subscription expires. Please contact the SP&S Customer Services team who will send you access codes.

by Major Leanne Ruthven

Individual subscribers will be contacted by SP&S when their subscription is coming up for renewal. (This process has not changed.) A digital subscription will automatically renew unless the auto-renew function on your device is disabled at least 24 hours before it expires.

IT’S official: the UK Territory’s papers The War Cry, Salvationist and Kids Alive! have gone digital. The printed versions are still available, but the message they’ve shared for more than 100 years is now within reach of a wider audience than ever before. That can only be good news! Here’s some important information about this exciting development. WHAT DEVICES WILL THE DIGITAL FORMATS BE AVAILABLE ON?

Apple iPads and iPhones, and Android devices such as smartphones and tablets. They will also be available on a Kindle Fire but not on a BlackBerry. At present, these are not available for download on a PC or Mac. HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

Single issues of each of the papers will cost 69p. A month’s subscription to The War Cry is 99p, Salvationist £2.49 and Kids Alive! £1.99. O Yearly subscriptions are The War Cry £9.99, Salvationist £29.99 and Kids Alive! £21.99. Please note: These price bands are set by iTunes. A sample issue of each title is available without charge. O Subscriptions commence with the latest issue. Downloadable back issues cost 69p each. O

HOW WILL I KNOW WHEN MY SUBSCRIPTION IS DUE FOR RENEWAL?

I’M NOT SURE IF I’LL LIKE IT. CAN I GET A FREE TRIAL?

Yes, there is a one-off free trial of one issue per title. CAN I CANCEL MY DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION AT ANY TIME?

No. Cancellation is not allowed during an active digital subscription period. Please note this is an Apple/Google policy. A DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION WOULD MAKE A GREAT CHRISTMAS PRESENT – CAN I SUBSCRIBE ON BEHALF OF SOMEONE ELSE?

Twelve-month gift subscription cards will be available from SP&S in good time for Christmas. When they are launched they will be widely advertised.

CAN I GET A DISCOUNT FOR BUYING MORE THAN ONE COPY/TITLE?

No. Apple/Google set the price banding, handle the creditcard transactions and forward the balance to SP&S. CAN I EMAIL AND TWEET AN ARTICLE TO A FRIEND?

You will be able to send a whole page, but not individual articles.

HOW DO I GET THE APP?

By downloading it from the Apple App Store or Google Play for Androids. If you don’t have an account you can set one up quickly and easily. Search for The War Cry, Salvationist or Kids Alive! in the digital store, download the free app for the title you want and make your purchase from there.

WHO DO I CONTACT ABOUT DIGITAL (OR PRINT) SUBSCRIPTIONS?

Contact SP&S, 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH; email keith.jennings @sp-s.co.uk; phone 01933 445451; email mail-order@sp-s.co.uk; phone Customer Services team on 01933 445445.

WHAT IF IT DOESN’T WORK?

On Apple and Android devices there is a comprehensive generic help feature. Please note that the Editorial Department, the Strategic Information Department and SP&S (Salvationist Publishing and Supplies) cannot respond to inquiries of a technical nature. The standard procedure for malfunctioning apps is to uninstall and then reinstall them. You will not lose your subscription by doing this. (Or you could get the nearest teenager to help you!) I’M A SUBSCRIBER WHO RECEIVES THE PAPER COPIES. CAN I TRANSFER TO DIGITAL AND GET A REFUND FROM THE BALANCE OF MY PAPER SUBSCRIPTION?

Because digital subscriptions are handled by third-party 10

Salvationist 24 November 2012

WON’T CORPS LOSE MONEY?

Corps don’t make money on papers sold within the corps. They make money when papers are sold on the street, whereby, technically, the public donates more than the cover price to support the work of The Salvation Army. WHY IS THIS HAPPENING? DOES IT MEAN THE END OF THE PRINTED PAPERS?

Going digital is about reaching new readers – those who wouldn’t stop to buy a War Cry or Kids Alive! in the street or who don’t get Salvationist from a corps. The papers will still be printed every week and distributed as normal. Digital publishing is an expansion of our ministry, not a replacement. It means getting the good news to new readers.

FEATURE

West-side stories Three West Scotland corps tell Claire Anderson how they are reaching their communities Open Door helps them bridge the financial gap. Invited to the Friday meal, I meet a variety of people. Toby wants to tell me how great the staff are and shows off the new jumper they gave him on a previous visit – he longs to be able to give something back to the Army; Erica recalls extra-mile service of corps friends who sourced furniture for her bare flat and even lugged it up long flights of stairs; Lauren has nothing but affection for the warmth and friendliness of the volunteers. The stories come thick and fast – even newcomers express the way they feel welcome, safe and accepted. Visitors’ issues vary – some struggle with addiction, others with mental health or financial issues, some are homeless, many are lonely. But the family nature of the corps has been its strength in welcoming newcomers. At dinner, the guests are respectful – with a few apologising profusely at occasional dropped expletives. Staff share the in-jokes, along with plenty of hugs and banter – not to mention laughs as reference is made by a guest to a staff member’s attractive physique – expressed eloquently in the Glaswegian vernacular! Laughter, fun and care

The Open Door team at Govan with Major Rita Pearce (centre)

season the team’s work – the best medicine in dark circumstances. At an end-of-evening debrief, staff highlight concerns raised by service users, share news, reflect on the evening and arrange the next week’s rota. It’s touching to hear their excitement at their visitors’ progress and how moved they feel by all they hear and the privilege of being invited into

‘‘

THE FAMILY NATURE OF THE CORPS HAS BEEN ITS STRENGTH IN WELCOMING NEWCOMERS

’’

people’s lives. Major Robert Pearce says: ‘You can see the love our folk have for these people who, because they are loved, keep coming back.’ The staff offer extra-mile support for guests, such as buying them new underwear – Helena and May refuse to offend the dignity of their friends with ‘recycled’ underwear – providing food parcels or helping them move to their own accommodation and sourcing furnishings. This holistic care has made an impact. Says Robert: ‘We regularly communicate with the manager at the nearby centre and ask how our work impacts theirs. They say it makes a difference as people are calmer; they listen and are more rational because they are being tended to at the corps.’ While all visitors are welcomed into the Govan family, some have been welcomed into the Church Universal – four regularly attend Sunday morning meetings and have made a CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Salvationist 24 November 2012

TRADITIONAL FAMILY GROWS A SHAMING accusation by a Secret Millionaire TV participant that Govan Corps was out of touch with the community provided a catalyst for the fellowship to ‘do something’. Long known as an established, family orientated corps with a strong musical tradition, Govan was, understandably, shaken to its roots. Says corps officer Major Rita Pearce: ‘I think the visit was the catalyst for the corps to look at what they were doing and to see what needed to be done. Certainly, for Helena Cochrane and May Gemmell, it triggered their response.’ Corps members Helena and May sensed a growing conviction to ‘do something’ practical and started by serving passers-by with soup from the hall doorstep. Despite little initial uptake, they persisted for six months. The corps then opened its doors fully and now welcomes up to 23 people weekly for food and fellowship in a warm, safe environment as part of the Open Door project. Most visitors live in direct-access accommodation behind the hall, others are homeless or in move-on accommodation requiring support. Many struggle to live on very little money, so

FEATURE W

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

response at the mercy seat. Many also visit the corps during the week – listening to band rehearsals or attending the crafts class. Although not everyone can be involved at Open Door, people pray for the programme and donate money and gifts. At Christmas the corps gave gifts of new pyjamas and slippers. Says Rita: ‘It was something so little but meant everything to our guests.’ The corps continues to flourish in other areas: it runs two sessions of Musical Tots – with more than 50 children and 40 parents on the books – there is also home league, junior and senior music sections, over-60 club and soup lunches. In the future the corps wants to continue its response to needs in Govan – particularly with elderly people – as well as commencing sports ministry and developing the children’s programmes. Helena and May would like to see Open Door develop and also for other corps, when led, to step out in faith. May said: ‘If we had taken the advice we were given at the time – that it would never work – then we wouldn’t have Open Door now.’ Helena concludes: ‘These people need our attention. They need to talk to us and all we have to do is be available.’

40 years ago as a Sunday school. It has continued to grow and today has a congregation ranging in age from newborn to 96 years old. ‘Our focus is on giving children and families a safe place to be,’ Jo shares. ‘The corps wants to do whatever is necessary to get the word out there that there is another way of life, there is somebody who loves you and there is forgiveness, healing and hope for you.’ The hall is near a number of schools at the centre of a housing estate, from where the fellowship runs a very popular

‘‘

OUR FOCUS IS ON GIVING CHILDREN AND FAMILIES A SAFE PLACE TO BE

’’

sports club, a well-attended Sunday school, discipleship groups, Friday night fun and youth clubs and a dance club. Jo is a school chaplain and is well known by the children and their families. Daily, the corps is a hub of activity, whether hosting the large parent-andtoddler group, three Bible studies,

furnishes the corps with clothes for clothing parcels and Women’s Aid and Social Services signposts those most in need to the corps. Jo explains: ‘It’s really important to work with all the other agencies to make sure people are getting what they need. It’s also an opportunity to talk about why we’re doing this, because the bottom line of everything we do is our faith.’ The rebuilding and refurbishment works will improve accessibility and existing hall facilities, a gift to the community as many visitors are wheelchair-users or have mobility issues. A new community garden will be tended by schoolchildren – who also designed it – supported by Cumbernauld Allotment Society. While work is carried out, ministry doesn’t abate. Some programmes are run from Kildrum parish church and a school hosts Sunday meetings, further cementing community relations. Cumbernauld Corps places particular emphasis on discipling its fellowship, especially younger members, to ensure the work continues beyond the present generation: a 13-year-old took on the Going For Gold co-ordinator role leading up to the Olympics; the corps dance teacher is 16; the puppet ministry leader is 14. Many of the YP workers are in their late teens or early twenties. Jo

MAJORS RITA AND ROBERT PEARCE ARE CORPS OFFICERS, GOVAN

FORMER PLANT RESEEDS GRABBING a hard hat, and wishing I’d worn wellies, I’m led by corps officers Lieutenants Jo and Steve Moir to the building site that is Cumbernauld’s hall to discover how this one-time plant has bloomed into a bursting-at-the-seams corps. Jo says: ‘Cumbernauld is an area of rural deprivation impacted by poverty and experiencing problems with gangs. It was a little bit daunting arriving straight from the training college in 2008 as we knew the corps had a great reputation for being a “plant”, still very much focused on mission and people. But, because that’s where our heart is, it was perfect for us.’ The Army started life in the area some 12

Salvationist 24 November 2012

Children and helpers at Cumbernauld youth club

over-60 club, Wednesday community drop-in or the community relief programme. But the corps is not inward-looking – it has great relationships with a range of organisations to help support the community beyond its walls. The Salvation Army Trading Company

concurs: ‘It gives them an opportunity to find out where God wants them for the future. If their heart’s right and their motive is God’s glory then they’ve nothing to lose and an awful lot to gain.’ The youngsters are also behind research and preparation to plant another Army expression in Carbrain. Jo

says: ‘Cumbernauld is a priesthood of all believers, where service is very much a part of their salvation. Carbrain is a deprived area of Cumbernauld, with a number of gangs and no churches operating in that area at the moment. Our YP worker team felt convicted to go there so we spent some time in prayer and agreed to start planting. It’s a big challenge but it defines what the corps is about – they see somewhere that needs Christ’s love and they go!’ LIEUTENANTS JO AND STEPHEN MOIR ARE CORPS OFFICERS, CUMBERNAULD

BUILDING UP THE ARMY – AND COMMUNITY ‘GOD is leading the corps and no one is holding it back,’ enthuses corps officer Captain Sarah Butler, who is based at Glasgow City Centre with her husband, Captain Matt Butler. ‘It’s a small but very spiritually sound congregation. We are all headed in the same direction and committed to it in prayer.’ Based in Anderston – a particularly deprived district of Glasgow – the corps has a busy outreach programme, despite being homeless itself! (The hall was demolished a year ago and the fellowship presently operates from a nearby church.) The walk to the hall site from the city centre winds underneath the busy motorway that separates Anderston from the main city. Sarah suggests many feel they are cut off – a forgotten people. En route she is frequently stopped as locals greet her – the corps is clearly engaged in its community. Although without a building, the weekly programme has continued, with three growing kid’s clubs and the Bible study, lunchtime prayer meetings and Messy Church still taking place. The luncheon club is on hold as the host church already runs one attended by the same clients. Each Sunday begins with a prayer walk – the benefits are being reaped. After only a couple of weeks, newcomers joined the corps and a woman gave her life to Christ. ‘To see the power of prayer working straight away has been really exciting,’ says Sarah. Not content only to bring people in, Sarah and Matt are heavily involved outside of church. Sarah, a former

The fellowship at Glasgow City Centre studies God’s word

teacher, regularly visits schools, taking part in assemblies and even provided a history lesson on the Army for the children’s Victorian era curriculum. She also started a choir at a primary school. This ministry provides a great opportunity to get to know teachers and parents as well as ‘giving something back to the community’. Matt is now part-time chaplain to two Lifehouses – William Hunter House and Wallace of Campsie – and has a view to integrating mission between the corps and Lifehouses in the future. The corps has built a good relationship with City Bailie Philip Braat, regularly prays for him and his work along with any specific prayer requests and supports council-run special events. Sarah says: ‘We’ve been part of planning processes, taken part in community councils and working parties. We’ve found The Salvation Army is well respected and it gives us the opportunity to meet council members and council workers, as well as key service, organisation and community figures.’ Liaising in all areas of community life is preparing the corps for the return to its premises and in developing further programme. While based at the church, the officers and church leaders have been open about their plans, ensuring little likelihood of duplication. When the corps reopens, its fellowship plans to provide another community service. Noticing the absence of a place where people can meet – and seeing so many people pass the site for the Skypark Business Centre, school and train station – the fellowship felt a café at the front of the new building, providing affordable, home-cooked food and refreshments, would raise a small income and open doors. Sarah says: ‘Ultimately, it will be a prayer space and a safe haven for people out of the busyness of their day.’

‘‘

AFTER ONLY A COUPLE OF WEEKS, NEWCOMERS JOINED THE CORPS AND A WOMAN GAVE HER LIFE TO CHRIST

’’

Asked how the corps will progress, she muses: ‘By continuing to be very open to and being part of the community. My vision is to see the corps grow and relationships become stronger with individuals, schools and other organisations. ‘It’s really exciting to see God at work already. I don’t know what’s going to happen next but I envisage it will be a lot bigger and better because of what he is already doing.’ CAPTAINS MATT AND SARAH BUTLER ARE CORPS OFFICERS, GLASGOW CITY CENTRE

CLAIRE IS CORPS COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, MEDIA OFFICE, THQ Salvationist 24 November 2012

ICO FEATURE

GOD’S WAY WITH ME Major Joan Münch, Denmark, introduces three fellow delegates from Session 215 – a children and youth session – at the International College for Officers and Centre for Spiritual Life Development.

CAPTAIN CELESTE NHACUMBA, MOZAMBIQUE

THE captain has known Jesus since early childhood. Her parents divorced when she was six. Shortly afterwards war broke out in Mozambique and she fled to neighbouring Swaziland, where she lived with Major Hilda Sigley, an Australian Salvation Army officer serving there. Times were hard and Celeste had to learn to take care of herself. She acknowledges that experiencing such hardships actually worked as a preparation for her today. God had a plan for her all the way through. The Scripture verse ‘We know that in all things God works for the good of those

‘‘

HE REVEALED HIMSELF TO CELESTE AS CREATOR, PRESERVER AND GOVERNOR OF ALL THINGS, AND SHE IS CONVINCED SHE IS FULFILLING HIS MISSION THROUGH OBEDIENCE AND WORSHIP

’’

Salvationist 24 November 2012

who love him’ (Romans 8:28 New International Version) is most descriptive of her life. In Swaziland Celeste also grew in faith, receiving love and spiritual nurture through Major Sigley. She returned to Mozambique a few years later with the major and saw her father regularly. When she was 20 years old she decided to reconnect with her mother and now spends as much time as possible with her. As a teenager Celeste had opportunity to attend youth councils. The speaker preached from Matthew 16:24: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me’ (NIV). She felt this was addressed directly at her and was certain that God wanted her to serve as a Salvation Army officer. She entered training in 1996 and married Mario Nhacumba after commissioning in 1997. They have two beautiful children. The couple have served in corps appointments, and as training college and territorial headquarters staff in Mozambique and Southern Africa. God is a strong reality in the captain’s life and service. He has revealed himself to her as Creator, Preserver and Governor of all things, and she is convinced she is fulfilling his mission through obedience and worship. CAPTAIN HARY HARAN, SINGAPORE, MALAYSIA AND MYANMAR

THE captain lived the first 40 years of his life as a Hindu. His childhood was a happy one, but – the sixth child in a family of eight – he witnessed his widowed mother struggling to supply their needs. However, he received a proper school and college education. In 1978 Hary joined the Singapore Air Force as an air material specialist and trainer; he pursued this career for 16 years. Christians at his workplace tried to share the gospel with him but he always responded: ‘Over my dead body!’ The turning point came one Friday as he sat at his desk reflecting on the purpose of his life. He suddenly decided to hand in his resignation on Monday, with no idea what was coming next. For six months the Air Force tried to make him stay but eventually released him from service.

became territorial youth and candidates secretary for the three countries in the territory. The captain presently holds three appointments. Hary was once adamant he would not become a believer. Today he is a believer and a preacher! John 9:1–38 resonates in a remarkable way with his life: he was ‘blind’, but now he sees; the blind man then became a witness, and Hary rejoices in seeing his mother and sister accepting Christ and serving as soldiers and a nephew becoming a junior soldier. CAPTAIN WILLIAM DEJESUS, USA CENTRAL

‘‘

PRAYER HELPED HARY REALISE THAT GOD HEARD HIM; HE ACCEPTED CHRIST AS LORD OF HIS LIFE AND BECAME A SOLDIER

WHEN William was two years old, his father decided that his son should be baptised although at that time the family did not attend church. Eventually he found a United Methodist Church that was willing to baptise William – and also found a community of believers that provided the family with the spiritual instruction they needed. William attended the Methodist Church until he was 18. He learnt about the Bible and God, but had not yet come to a saving knowledge of Jesus

’’

At that point he had received three job offers. For some reason he accepted one from The Salvation Army, although less attractive. Now he sees that this was his entry point into God’s plan. Hary was not yet a believer. The job was tremendously challenging, so he looked to God for guidance and help. God answered Hary’s prayer in the person of Commissioner Lim Ah Ang, who prayed for him on several occasions. That prayer helped Hary realise that God heard him; he accepted Christ as Lord of his life and became a soldier. The call to officership came four years later. He wanted to be sure and looked to God for confirmation. God proved his calling in many ways, especially through the corps officer who came to his house to talk about officership. Hary was the only cadet in the 2003 Preparers of the Way Session! In 2004 he was appointed to Singapore Central as assistant corps officer and chaplain to a children’s home. Two years later, he

which, after much prayer, they decided to accept. During their short stay William had come to appreciate them and the Army’s ministry, although he had never attended a corps. He could not explain how or why, but knew in his heart that God was calling him to join them. In 1993 he began attending the Army in Wisconsin and became a soldier on his birthday that year. Two months later he met Cassandra. They married in 1994 and entered training in the 1996 Builders of the Kingdom Session. Since then William has served as corps officer, and as territorial youth and candidates secretary in South America East Territory. He is presently assistant territorial youth secretary USA Central Territory. William describes his spiritual journey: ‘It was only when I finally surrendered all to God that I found purpose and joy in my life. I now have a wonderful ministry, a beautiful wife and two wonderful boys. God is good!’

‘‘

WILLIAM COULD NOT EXPLAIN HOW OR WHY, BUT KNEW IN HIS HEART THAT GOD WAS CALLING HIM

’’

Christ. This happened during a Baptist Church service while serving in the Marine Corps, aged 19. He later enrolled in a Bible college in Philadelphia, preparing himself for full-time ministry. One summer – then aged 22 – he began work at a mission in New York City, feeding homeless people and enjoying a youth ministry. The mission’s new directors were former Salvation Army officers. Three months later, they were offered reinstatement and a new appointment Salvationist 24 November 2012

BIBLE STUDY

God’s redeeming journey The second of two studies by Major Keith White

NE of the most bizarre news items in recent days was the story of the dog rejected by its owners and taken to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home because it didn’t match the wallpaper. When real love is replaced by designer-love, we are in trouble. In following the journey of God in the history of humankind, we find occasions when love is false. Jesus observed such hollow pretension when watching people giving in the Temple (Mark 12:38–44). When a woman is presented to Jesus by a crowd ready to stone her, he graphically deals with their hypocrisy (John 8:5–11). To truly show us how to love, God had to journey in the flesh with his people, to be one with us. A loving relationship without pretence was about people obeying God’s will out of desire, not the dictates of the Law alone. God Incarnate walked the earth to sample the highs and lows of being human. It was the greatest event in our history. A new covenant was born from a natural bond between Jesus and his disciples. The worst rigours of the Old Testament covenant would however soon visit him. In Genesis 15, Abram was asked to separate the carcasses of slaughtered animals and in a dream watched God – symbolised by a blazing torch – pass through the separated halves. When such a covenant was brokered between people, anyone breaking it would be cut off and could be killed. This sombre warning was echoed in Jeremiah 34:18–20, when an agreement about freedom for slaves was broken. Significantly, Abram was not required to pass between the carcasses. By so 16

Salvationist 24 November 2012

covenanting himself with Abram and his offspring, God would face the consequences on their behalf if future generations broke this covenant. Some 1,900 years later, we see the result in the broken body of Christ at Calvary. Just as the lamb was slaughtered at the original Passover, so Jesus became known as the Paschal Lamb whose blood was shed as the atonement for our sins. Christ’s death changed the world. As the sun rose on Easter morning, the new covenant was sealed for ever. Through the power of resurrection, Christ opened the door to eternal life for all who called upon his name. It didn’t matter how imperfect they were. In seeking his forgiveness and renouncing their sins, they were saved by grace. The days of priestly intermediaries had gone. Every man, woman and child could have a direct relationship with God through Jesus and as the Holy Spirit journeyed with believers, so the Church grew. The Spirit anointed, apostles witnessed and thousands were saved at Pentecost. The cleansing rites of an ancient people were now replaced by the cleansing power of the Holy Spirit. Now everyone could commune with God. The miracle of God’s love became manifest in unlikely people. Paul’s words to the Galatian Church enforced the new universality of the covenant: ‘There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus’ (3:28 all quotations from New International Version). Isaiah had aired this universality 700 years earlier. Writing from exile, his messianic prophesy spoke of a light to the Gentiles (42:6). In spirit, Christ

travelled with Paul, joined John on Patmos and Ephesus and fired the hearts of Peter and others building the Church in Jerusalem. Every member who experienced the power of his love knew something of the resurrection experience. It renewed them. The Church effectively became a living assembly of believers: the Body of Christ. God has been engaged in the mission of love from the beginning of time. His journey with his people brought victory through adherence to laws inscribed on tablets, housed in a sacred ark. Ultimate salvation comes as Christ journeys with us, for today we are temples of the living God and take Jesus to the world. AFTERTHOUGHTS As Christ’s journey continues within us, what does our mission of love look like? As a Movement, is our identity confused, diluted or enhanced by the sacred responsibility we have of delivering the word of God to our community?

MAJOR WHITE IS CORPS OFFICER, MAIDENHEAD

LETTERS WE KEPT OUR OLD FLAG WHEN our corps building – Clowne – was refurbished, we needed a new flag. I requested permission to keep the old flag so we could use it for displays. I asked one of our bandsmen, who is good with words, to write a verse about the flag, which we used in our 125th corps anniversary celebrations. When we dismantled the display (see picture) some comrades asked if we could leave the verse in our foyer so that people who come into our hall could read it and realise our standard has special meaning to us. V. Straw, Clowne

REDIRECTION AND RELEVANCE ARE NEEDED SEVERAL correspondents have responded to the article by Dave Tomlinson (Salvationist 23 June) who argues that churches generally need to change their approach to mission. Over the years, I have come to the conclusion that many people, within and without the churches, are presented with a view of Christianity that seems far removed

from the essential message of the gospel. Furthermore, whatever passes as the Christian message often is presented in a language that appears to many to be incomprehensible and engages in talk that is often completely unrelated to their daily lives. Reading the gospels introduces us to talk about the poor (one of the frequent words used by Jesus), social inequalities, family values, making ends meet, the inevitable iniquity of riches, human interaction and many examples of the consequences of human selfishness. Jesus moved among the people and they gladly received his message. He said little about any afterlife: he was concerned about life in the community, how we relate to others, care for the needy and sick and promoting the good life for all. Whatever else we may read into the Scriptures, they present a clear message concerning the kind of society we should strive to create, fit for everyone, not just some kind of oligarchy whereby the few can live in comfort at the expense of the many. Whether stated or unstated, most people want a better kind of society, a fit environment in which to raise their families and generally live within their communities. There are many voices proclaiming solutions to people’s needs and problems but often few voices that can help them evaluate those claims. Should churches have a role in promulgating what counts as a good society? If, as an average member of the general public, I listen to religious services on the radio on Sunday mornings, I am not sure I will get much inspiration. I may well find more relevant discussion in the pages of the economics sections of quality newspapers. Some may argue, as Tomlinson does, that the churches need to proclaim with more vigour what they have always proclaimed; others, of course, may ask whether much of it is relevant today, or at least in the ways in which it is presented. The fact is that many do not attend churches because they find services and religious talk boring, often incomprehensible and irrelevant to them in their daily lives. Clearly those

who do attend frequently and are active find fulfilment and meaning in their lives – but what about all of those who pass by! Yet we live in a society that has a huge reservoir of goodwill, of compassion, of people who give generously to charities and often engage in good works. How far this indicates a residue of Christian influence, historically, may be hard to tell. Churches may now be standing at the crossroads and realise they have to change direction, yet not be sure about which direction to take. William Booth did change direction and went in a direction quite different from that of the established churches of his day in order to reach out with a clear social gospel, seeking to make the Christian message relevant to socially deprived outcasts and to those with ruined lives. We have found, however, that widespread social reform can be realised only through government action and, without signalling any particular political creed, surely it is incumbent on Christians to consider which political policies are nearest to the teaching of Jesus. The Rev Gerald Paisey, Uphall

SOPRANO CORNET SEEKS OWNER I HAVE a soprano cornet, manufactured by Hawkes and Son. I understand, from the University of Edinburgh, that this instrument was made in or around 1915. It is in playing condition with just a few dings on it. On the bell is engraved ‘B GIBBS’. I am trying to find a relative of this person to give them the cornet if they so wish. Please respond via Salvationist. Don Blake, Edinburgh

O Write to Salvationist (Letters),

101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN or email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk Salvationist 24 November 2012

NEW COMMITMENTS

3. 6.

12.

13.

14.

11. 18

Salvationist 24 November 2012

10.

1. & 2. KENNETH GEAR, GRACE GEAR Adherent members DISS KEN accepted an invitation to attend worship at the corps and felt so at home that Grace subsequently started to worship there too. They were welcomed as adherent members by corps officers Majors Barbara and Ian Fawcett. – I. F. 3. LIZZIE ROSE Adherent member ISLE OF WIGHT LIZZIE became part of the corps when she married Ian, a bandsman. She witnessed another corps member being welcomed as an adherent member and knew she wanted that as well. She was welcomed by corps officer Major Keith Wallis. – A .W.

4. – 7. JESS LITTLE, AMELIA MORAN, JESSICA MITCHELL, MICHAEL MORAN Junior soldiers BRISTOL EASTON JESS became part of the corps after attending the holiday club with her friend Charlotte Abraham. Jessica has attended the corps from birth. Jess and Jessica were enrolled by corps officer Major John McCombe. Twins Michael and Amelia were enrolled by their grandfather Lieut-Colonel Peter Moran (London South-East, DHQ). – H. B. 8. LESLEY BEALES Adherent member TIVERTON LESLEY’S life changed when she attended the ‘I’ll Fight!’ Congress in May. She had not been to church for many years but never lost her faith. Following an appeal by General Linda Bond, Lesley went to the mercy seat where God gave her inner peace – something she had been looking for through traumatic times in her life. After the Congress Lesley and her husband John attended a meeting at Tiverton where corps officer Major Diana Bennetts preached on Luke 5:33–38. Lesley felt the Lord’s hand upon her life and knew she wanted a closer walk with him. Major Bennetts welcomed Lesley as an adherent member. – D. B. 9. & 10. CINDY HUGHES Soldier ANNICK PETERS Junior soldier SITTINGBOURNE CINDY’S journey of faith brought her to the Army several years ago. As an adherent member she became involved in many ways within the corps. In recent months she felt that she should make a further commitment. In a meeting themed Every Day Counts a film clip compiled by Annick’s mum reflected her life including her step of faith. Everyone was encouraged to contribute written words to a memory box. Corps officer Major Robert Jepson enrolled Cindy as a soldier and Annick as a junior soldier. – R. J. 11. AMI BOOTHBY, ROSS BENNINGTON Junior soldiers WISBECH AMI and Ross attend the youth club and cell group. They were invited to attend Sunday meetings and the East Midlands and Anglia summer school and decided to make a public commitment to God by becoming junior soldiers. They were enrolled by corps leaders Territorial Envoys Alison and Russell Day. Ami and Ross – together with their friend Kerri-Ann Horn – testified about their faith through singing ‘Father Creator’. – C. K.

12. ELAINE GODFREY Soldier BASINGSTOKE ELAINE has attended the corps for several years with her husband Roy who is a soldier. Recently she decided to make a commitment. Corps officer Major Steph Fallows enrolled Elaine as a soldier. – P. F. 13. & 14 SHANNON ROCKALL, STACEY MATIAS Junior soldiers RAMSGATE SHANNON and Stacey enjoy being part of the Adventurers children’s meetings and Sunday worship. Corps officer Major John Watson enrolled Shannon and Stacey as junior soldiers. – J. W.

NEW COMMITMENTS IN NOVEMBER

11 Soldiers 19 Adherent members 13 Junior soldiers

TOTALS FOR THIS YEAR SO FAR: Soldiers: 325 Adherent members: 465 Junior soldiers: 254

Salvationist 24 November 2012

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTED Effective 5 October: O Major Rose Denyer, Chesterton Effective 18 October: O Captain Katherine Ward, Tadcaster Effective 6 November: O Territorial Envoys Martyn and Susan Jackson, Nottingham Meadows Outreach Project Effective 8 November: O Major Morag Watkins, additional appointment, Chaplain, The Booth Centre, Southampton Effective 15 November: O Major Terry Hooper, Thetford Effective 6 December: O Major Michael Harris, Otley AWARDED O Major Samuel Edgar, West Midlands DHQ, has been awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship by the Rotary Club of Birmingham LOCAL OFFICER APPOINTED O YPSM Hannah Wainwright, Castleford MARRIAGES O Keiran Muir to Hannah Dee at Winton by Captain Ian Davis O Bandsman Garry Parkin to Bandswoman/Songster Gemma

Murphy at Wallsend by Major Yvonne Dare. WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Golden: O Pat and Mrs Shirley Lang, Plymouth Exeter Hall Whitleigh (24 November) O SL Robert and Mrs May Murray, Maddiston DEDICATED TO GOD O Corey, son of David and Tamlynne Topping, at Londonderry by Lieutenant Philip Cole BEREAVED O Dorothy Willetts, Reading Central, of her husband Gordon, Commissioner Dorita Wainwright, Kenya East, and Martin Willetts of their father, Marjorie Tompkins and Enid Willetts, both Reading Central, of their brother O Major Jean Howarth of her sister O Songster Barbara Roberts, Merthyr Tydfil, of her brother O Dep BM John Dickinson, Robin Dickinson, Meryl Dickinson and Carol Gargett of their mother HLS/Songster Mildred Dickinson, all Rock Ferry RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: O Lieut-Colonel Nigel Mason (80 on 3 December)

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL LINDA BOND: O Papua New Guinea, Wed 21 Nov - Tu 27 O Southern Africa, Mon 3 Dec Tu 11 O UK, Westminster Abbey (Whitehall carol service), Wed 19 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER BARRY SWANSON) AND COMMISSIONER SUE SWANSON: O UK, Doncaster, Sat Sun 25 Nov O ICO, Fri 30 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANDRÉ COX) AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: O National Arboretum (dedication of Salvation Army memorial), Sat 24 Nov O Royal Albert Hall (Christmas with The Salvation Army), Th 29 O Palace of Westminster (Parliamentary carol service), Th 6 Dec O West Scotland, Sat Sun 9 O Stepney, Fri 14 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: O Royal Albert Hall (Christmas with The Salvation Army), Th 29 Nov O Palace of Westminster (Parliamentary carol service), Th 6 Dec O William Booth College, Th 13 COMMISSIONERS TORBEN AND DEISE ELIASEN: O Latin America North, Sat 24 Nov - Sat 1 Dec Southern, Sat 8 - Wed 12

O USA

COMMISSIONERS ALISTAIR AND ASTRID HERRING: O New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga (including Commissioning), Sat 1 Dec - Th 13 INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND: O Chelmsford, Sat Sun 25 Nov O Royal Albert Hall (Christmas with The Salvation Army), Th 29 INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS: O Royal Albert Hall (Christmas with The Salvation Army), Th 29 O Llandaff Cathedral, Cardiff, Sat 1 Dec

Salvationist 24 November 2012

O Mrs Major Flo West (101 on 4 December) PROMOTED TO GLORY O Major Elaine Lee from Leyton on 9 November O Lieut-Colonel Charlesina (Ina) Parkhouse from Enfield on 14 November O Mabel Rowland, Southsea O S/Librarian Josephine Greenway, Tenby If desired, messages of congratulation or condolence relating to retired officers may be sent c/o Retired Officers Unit, The Salvation Army, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN

ON THE AIR O BBC Radio 4 (92-95, 103-105 FM and online at bbc.co.uk/radio4): Sunday Worship (8.10 am), led by Commissioner William Cochrane (IHQ), will be broadcast from Regent Hall on Sunday 9 December.

TRIBUTES BANDSMAN STANLEY DIXON, SHEFFIELD CITADEL STAN transferred from Attercliffe Temple two years ago when the corps closed. His wife Doreen, whom he married in 1950, died of cancer in 1976. They had a son, Nigel. Stan served as CSM, corps treasurer and YPSM. In 2008 he received a certificate for 70 years’ service as a bandsman. A truly great Christian gentleman, he was much loved for his kindness and sense of humour. Stan’s influence was shown by the number of former Sabac members at his funeral. He continued as a bandsman until six weeks before his promotion to Glory at 89. He was also a member of South Yorkshire Fellowship Band. Stan leaves a son and daughter-in-law, three grandsons and a multitude of friends. – G. B.

MRS LOUIE GARROD, LINCOLN LOUIE STOW became a junior and then senior soldier at Wisbech. After training in the 1938 Dauntless Evangelists Session, her first officer appointment was to an eventide

home near Crystal Palace. She met her future husband Albert while stationed at Attleborough. Her father’s sudden death caused Louie to withdraw from officership and return home. She later married Albert and they had four children. Local officer positions at various corps included YPSM and corps cadet guardian. She was always available to listen and advise. Throughout her life Louie kept her childhood commitment to serve the Lord to the best of her ability. Louie lived up to her calling as a Dauntless Evangelist until her promotion to Glory shortly after her 94th birthday. – R. S.

ANN GRAHAM SUMMERS, SCUNTHORPE BORN in Dundee in 1939, Ann grew up in Arbroath. After leaving school she worked as an apprentice tracer, followed by time in the WRAF. She also worked at Barlinnie Prison, Rossie Farm School for Boys and the RSSPCC – retiring from Scunthorpe General Hospital as a senior social worker. Generous, caring, and a good friend to many, Ann was dedicated to helping others. She helped in the care and share shop, and was a home league member, songster and YP treasurer. She was always ready with prayer and testimony. In recent months her health deteriorated but her promotion to Glory was unexpected. – G. R-C.

and give thanks for her beautiful legacy and influence. – J. B.

REG HAWKINS, BOSCOMBE REG was born in 1916 in Bournemouth, and – apart from wartime military service – spent his whole life there. He progressed through the corps as junior soldier, YP band member and senior bandsman and was No 1 on the roll at the time of his promotion to Glory. His service as a bandsman was exemplary, not only for his playing on baritone and euphonium, but also for his 100 per cent Salvationism. Reg was a devoted father and grandfather. His love for Gwen, his first wife, was proved by his loving care through her many years of serious illness. The last few years of his life were made very happy with Vi, whom he married ten years ago. – M. B./M. B.

MRS ANNE HOLMES, DEREHAM ANNE was born in 1944 at Brightlingsea, where she became a junior and senior soldier. She later soldiered at Edmonton and Cambridge. Anne suffered from profound deafness all her life, but it never stopped her doing the Lord’s work. This included door-to-door collecting, flag days, War Cry selling and soup-runs. She also helped many officers by looking after their children during councils. She met her husband Frank after moving to Loughborough. Anne continued her service at Dereham and was blissfully happy. After being given Odell, a hearing dog to help her, she gave talks to raise awareness and gain funds for the charity. She was promoted to Glory after a short illness. – R. C.

APP AVAILABLE NOW! Salvationist has gone digital. As well as being available as a newspaper, the paper that is essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army is now available via an app. By downloading a free app onto an Apple or android smartphone or tablet, our tech-savvy readers will be able to get all the benefits of Salvationist in a format that is truly mobile and modern.

MRS EUNICE BRIGHT, WEYMOUTH AN East End girl, Eunice Whale and her parents moved across London after being bombed out. This brought them into contact with The Salvation Army for the first time. Eunice found herself attracted to the newest senior bandsman, Dennis Bright. They embarked on a relationship lasting 70 years, with sons Colin, Dudley and Julian completing their happy Army family, with Eunice at its heart. Serving at Wealdstone, Regent Hall and Weymouth, she held many positions – most notably, as primary sergeant. She loved to sing in the songsters and as a soloist and was often on her feet to give testimony and talk about Jesus. Her family celebrate her remarkable life Salvationist 24 November 2012