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70p/80c 25 November 2023
SALVATIONIST BREAKING THE TABOO SUPPORTING SURVIVORS OF DOMESTIC ABUSE
Ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven THE words of Henry Francis Lyte’s song ‘Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven’ are among the most popular in the hymnals of the Church – and with good reason, as they capture the essence of our relationship with God. That our soul can and should seek to praise God in and through our greatest hardships speaks to the power of his transformation of our inmost being. That we are able to find healing and restoration despite traumatic and painful experiences is testament to the love of God and, therefore, the forgiveness that is available even to those who have caused us harm. Acknowledging the United Nations 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which begin today, this week’s issue focuses on the work and partnerships of those engaged in supporting and restoring those who have experienced domestic abuse and the opportunity all corps and centres have to offer a safe and welcoming space to enable healing to happen and give people hope for a more secure future. We hear, too, how the love of God – shown to someone whose own life experiences had been anything but loving until that point – enabled and inspired them to reach out to others in his name.
MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN Editor
ON THE WEBSITE Visit salvationist.org.uk Leslie Condon Concert review Trade for hope How Others is helping others
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SUPPORT AND ADVICE If you or someone you know has experienced or is experiencing domestic violence and abuse, contact the confidential freephone 24-hour National Domestic Abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247 (UK) or 1800 341 900 (Ireland). If you are in danger, call 999. 2
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8+9 RESTORED: WORKING WITH SURVIVORS
10 BUILDING A BEACON NETWORK
12 6+7 OVERSEAS CHRISTMAS MAILING LIST
BIBLE STUDY
SALVATIONIST Issue No 1937 EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford
FOUNDER William Booth
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Simon Hope, George Tanton, Lyn Woods, Major Margaret Bovey
GENERAL Lyndon Buckingham
ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden
TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight, Louise Phillips
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Julian Watchorn
PROOFREADER Chris Horne
TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 1 Champion Park, London SE5 8FJ 0845 634 0101
CONTACT US 020 7367 4890 (main) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk ADVERTISING advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66–78 Denington Road, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 / subscriptions@satcol.org FRONT-PAGE PICTURE Quotes taken from the Ireland Division’s domestic abuse training sessions SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS From the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated
© The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory. ISSN 2516-5909. The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland is SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland is CHY6399. Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by CKN Print, Northampton.
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Picture: BBC Studios, Bad Wolf, Disney, © BBC Studios 2023
TRENDING
Bigger on the inside As Doctor Who celebrates its 60th anniversary, Simon Hope wonders at the extent of God’s plan for us
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OU might not know your Adipose from your Zygon, but it’s hard to deny the impact that Doctor Who has had on the British cultural zeitgeist. Ahead of a new season in 2024, the long-running sci-fi series rematerialises on BBC One tonight for three weekly specials celebrating the show’s 60th anniversary, and I – a diehard Whovian – am excited. Key to the show is a constant state of flux, as the titular Doctor periodically regenerates and brings new companions aboard. One thing that has remained relatively unchanged, however, is the Doctor’s time-travelling spaceship, the Tardis, which whisks the characters from one story to the next. Nowadays, the iconic blue police box stands out, although its original aim was to appear ordinary in 1960s London. Objectively speaking, it does look rather unremarkable. Perhaps that’s why so many companions are left stunned when they discover that it’s bigger on the inside. What takes 30 seconds to circumnavigate on the outside couldn’t be internally explored in a lifetime. And that’s before the timey-wimey adventures have even begun. On their travels the crew often don’t know where they’re going to end up – a running joke is that the Doctor isn’t particularly good at controlling the Tardis. As it happens, that may not be entirely their fault. When
confronted with its unreliability, the ship once asserted: ‘I always took you where you needed to go.’ Disciples of Jesus may not be fighting potato-headed soldiers or plungerwielding pepper pots on the regular, but there are echoes of our day-to-day battles as Christians in this silly sci-fi show. For a start, we often like to think of ourselves as the pilots of our lives, fully in control of our destination. Yet how often we look up from the console and realise we’re not where we thought we should be. It can be unclear why God’s plan has brought us to this place and we can be left frustrated and wrestling with our own monster of the week. Still, God reminds us not to lean on our understanding but to take heart that the True Pilot knows the plans laid out for us (see Proverbs 3:5 and Jeremiah 29:11). That’s reassuring – and it’s only the beginning. What’s more exciting is that these plans have nothing to do with fitting into an unremarkable box. Just as with the Doctor’s old blue police box, we might be tempted to look at God’s plan from the outside and label it mundane without realising the extent of the worlds contained within. Even if we never own a swimming pool in a library, spiritually we have ‘immeasurably more’ (Ephesians 3:20) than we can imagine ahead of us. When companions first step into the Tardis, it’s not uncommon for them to
Reflect and respond Have you stepped into God’s plan yet? What’s the next step? Read Ephesians 3:16–21. Have you explored the ‘immeasurably more’ God has planned for you? Listen to ‘What Do I Know of Holy’ by Addison Road. What do you have left to discover in God’s wild blue yonder? stop – or even back out – in shock. It’s an overwhelming experience and they need to muster courage to take those second, third and fourth steps. So it can be with God’s plan. The difference for us? We are God’s timeless children; we know Jesus’ promise of fullness of life! It’s with such hope that we can boldly take those next steps. All we need do is knock on the door (see Matthew 7:7) and let God’s plan take us further than we’ve ever gone before.
SIMON HOPE Editorial Assistant Salvationist
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TESTIMONY
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EXPLAINED CS /siː ɛs/ ■ n.
AROUND the Army world there are 151,342 local officers supporting and upholding their corps and their leaders. Similar to lay leaders in other denominations, local officers are soldiers who undertake specific duties. A common position found in many corps is the corps secretary (CS). A CS is a senior local officer who takes responsibility for managing the administration and finance of a corps. Additionally, they are secretary to the pastoral care council and attend corps council meetings. Responsible to the corps officer/s, the work of a CS relates to the business of the corps, particularly finance, statistics, rolls and records, and property. There are many aspects to this, but it includes recording statistics of all meetings and practices, distributing weekly correspondence to members and counting the weekly offering with the corps treasurer, as well as preparing the proposed annual budget, after consultation with the corps officer, assisted by the corps treasurer. They are responsible for making sure that the census minute book, marriage register, register of dedication and promotion to Glory, transfer book and corps history book are up to date. They also periodically examine the officers’ quarters with the corps treasurer and corps officer and arrange to upgrade household items as needed. Orders and Regulations for Corps Secretaries and Treasurers (1997) explains that they are expected to be ‘godly, loyal and devoted soldiers, likely to stand by the principles and practices of the Army’.
Could God be calling you to a local leader position? Speak to your corps officer or read more at salvationist.org.uk/ local-officership-and-service. 4
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‘I want to change lives with God’s help’ Jean shares that she is called to serve and love others
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ROM the age of eight I was brought up by my grandparents. These wonderful people really tried their best for me, but I never experienced love. At 13 I started to attend Sunday school at a local church and I first learnt about Jesus. However, I left because I did not feel that I belonged. Later, I was still without the experience of love in my life. My partner subjected me to severe domestic abuse, but somehow I kept going. I became a Christian and was baptised. I experienced love for the first time in my life from the good people I worshipped with. I found peace and I felt that I belonged. I started to take part in church activities, in particular volunteering in night shelters. I cried out to God for deliverance. As I prayed, I felt the sensation of a hand on my shoulder. I knew that God was speaking, and this gave me the courage I needed to leave. By now I had discovered the value of prayer, but greater revelations were still to come. I had also become acquainted with love, as shown to me by members of the church to which I belonged. I tried hard to show this love to others. In 2011 I became seriously ill with pneumonia. My lungs had collapsed, and I was on a critical care ward in hospital. Death was forecast. Then I saw Jesus. Yes, I did. This was real. He was at the foot of my bed in a white robe, and he spoke to me. He said: ‘You will not die for I have work for you to do. I want you to declare the word of the Lord to as many people as possible.’ Ever since then I have had a passion to reach out to others. I made time for prayer at least three times every day, sometimes more. I worked as a volunteer serving people in need.
I moved and was invited to the local corps by a lady. I have since been shown love by her and so many people there. I wanted to respond to that love, which is why I became a soldier. There is so much more I can do with God’s strength and with prayerful preparation. When I was growing up nobody loved me or had time for me. Now, I have found a ministry showing love to others. My calling is to serve others and I want to do just that.
Have you got a testimony to share? We’d love to hear your faith journey! Get in touch at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk.
LETTERS
OVERWHELMING EVIDENCE
Major Joy Webb IN 1964, aged 31, I was the corps secretary at Winton. The corps officer told me that with the DHQ papers was an invitation for the corps to host the Joystrings for Whitsun weekend. That Saturday evening in Glenmoor School, the large assembly hall was packed, with ‘A Million Songs’ ringing out. On the Sunday afternoon, the corps took the Joystrings to the Bournemouth West Cliff. On the Bank Holiday Monday, my father, Ron, arranged for the use of Pelhams Park. A lieutenant from an adjacent corps made his way there, joining 6,000 others. His eyes attracted him to one of the singers, who would eventually become Mrs Commissioner Pauline Banks! My first encounter with
Joy Webb was when Winton Band formed a male voice party. We were invited to an event at a nearby corps. Weeks after, I received a letter from Captain Joy Webb, who was the special and had enjoyed hearing our group perform. Moving forward to the 1970s, Major Joy Webb’s influence continued to be felt through her leadership of the music schools at Sunbury Court by my three daughters. I am humbled to be able to recount these events, which are very personal to me. Joy’s work as a musician and officer has been, and continues to be, an inspiration to me. Let us praise God for the songs she has left us. Michael Bennett Reading
COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS? Get in touch with the Salvationist editorial team at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk or comment on Facebook @SalvationistUKI.
HOLD TO YOUR FAITH
UNIVERSITY study, far from taking a student away from the Lord, can lead to Christian conversion. Professor Alister McGrath lectures in science and religion at the University of Oxford. McGrath in the 1970s was a chemistry student. But don’t science students need faith? Many Christian students advised McGrath to read the New Testament. Fortunately he could read it in its original Koine Greek. The Koine word metanoia occurs throughout the New Testament – for example, Paul exhorted the Romans to be transformed by the renewing of the mind (see 12:2). McGrath attended a service led by Professor Charles Coulson. Coulson said that, as a chemist, he believed in electrons. His belief was one of faith: no one has actually seen an electron, but the evidence for their existence is overwhelming. Kevin Chubb Barry
MEMORIES ON RECORD I’M having a serious declutter prior to an eventual house move. As a Salvationist you can imagine lots of my possessions relate to the Army. I have the usual spare uniforms, some of which haven’t fit for a long time, two as-new bonnets – one mine, one my late mum’s – a large half cross-stitch of the SAMF logo I stitched on night shifts at a nursing home, tambourines, several books, etc. Going through my records, I uncovered several by bands and one by the ISS. I wonder how many past, or present timbrel leaders had Marches and Tempo for Timbrels, two LPs by Wellington Citadel Band recorded especially for timbrelists. Sadly, although I will try to find new homes for these or recycle them as much as possible, I guess some will go in the bin, a part of my history gone. What does anyone else do with their memorabilia? Kathryn Normanton Lockerbie
AS part of a birthday present in 1948, I was given an autograph book. Lots of Army friends wrote in it, but there are two special ones from my parents. My father wrote one of the Ten Commandments – honour your father and mother – so vehemently I could still read it on the following three pages! My mother’s I know off by heart: give of your best in everything and conscientiously tackle the job that life has given you. Put all you have into the task, whatever it may be, taking a pride in what you have to do. Never descend to pettiness, stoop not to deceive. Hold to your faith and let your life proclaim what you believe. These words have become very special to me. My daily walk with Jesus is wonderful, talking to him, just loving being in his presence. Life isn’t all plain sailing, but that’s when Jesus carries me until I feel stronger. As an aside, I have a bookmark on my fridge, asking: ‘If you were arrested for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?’ Well, would there? Shirley Barber Aylsham
ON AN INTERVIEW WITH MAJOR JOY WEBB FROM 2000
‘Great article of a very inspiring person. May Joy rest in peace and rise in Glory.’ Kris Robinson YOUR VIEWS Many years ago General Frederick Coutts said letters for publication in the Army’s press should be ‘carefully thought out, logically presented and charitably expressed’. Letters may be edited and should ideally be no more than 150 words.
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BIBLE STUDY
While we wait Major Sarah Butler encourages us to stand firm in faith as we wait for the Lord’s coming
JAMES 5:7–20
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OYCE Meyer wrote: ‘Patience is not simply the ability to wait – it’s how we behave while we’re waiting.’ What do you do when you’re waiting for something? Do you pace up and down, aimlessly passing the time? Do you prefer to use your time productively, busily getting on with tasks? Does it depend on what you are waiting for, an exciting opportunity or a terrifying reality? In this passage, James speaks about being patient as we wait for the Lord’s coming. For those early disciples, perhaps this was not only an exciting opportunity to meet with Jesus, but also a terrifying reality of pending judgement. PAUSE AND REFLECT What would life be like if we spent it pacing up and down aimlessly as we waited for the Lord’s coming? What would it be like if we distracted ourselves with tasks and activity? As James urges us to stand firm in our waiting, does that mean that we need to just stand idly around, watching the world go by? No. We are to stand firm in the truths of the gospel and our knowledge of Christ in order that we do not waver from our devotion to him. There must be room in our lives for stopping and waiting as well as for action. We need times of quiet, patient waiting to remind us of the wonder and mystery of what we are waiting for. We do not want to become so distracted by busyness that we forget the real meaning of the prize ahead. However, we also need 6
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focused times of action to carry out God’s mission of going out and making disciples. There must have been grumbles and disappointments even in the early days of the Church, as James is very up front with his warning to them. Taking out our frustrations on others will never have a positive outcome, and yet this is probably one of the biggest struggles we have when it comes to patience. We struggle with the ability to keep our cool when other people exasperate or annoy us. PAUSE AND REFLECT How easy is it to refrain from grumbling to and about others amid frustration, or when we lose hope in the waiting? How often do we lose our patience with others when their methods of waiting differ from ours? We are encouraged to exhibit the same patient faith that the prophets showed when, even in the midst of adversity and suffering, they spoke in the name of the Lord (see vv10 and 11) – people of faith who have shown great courage and patience in the worst of suffering but who were rewarded in the end because the Lord is full of compassion and mercy. No matter the cost, these people – whose suffering was enormous – kept going because they had faith in God.
In the second half of this passage, James speaks about praying in faith and, particularly, about how the community of believers can come together and support each other in all circumstances (see vv13–16). One of the amazing beauties of being part of a healthy spiritual congregation is the fact that, no matter what we are going through, we can share it with our fellow believers and experience true Christian love and friendship. It is when things are hard – times when we experience trouble and sickness – that others will lift us up to God’s throne in prayer. When there are things to celebrate, we can rejoice together in the goodness of God. This deep level of fellowship sometimes requires us to be vulnerable with each other. We also need to exercise patience with each other as we all wrestle with what life throws at us in different ways. Church is at its very best when we are able to lay down our differences, be open with each other and support each other as we, together, grow as disciples. PAUSE AND REFLECT When was the last time someone prayed over you when you were sick or in trouble? When have you prayed over someone else who was experiencing a difficult time with their health?
PAUSE AND REFLECT When are the times we state that life is unfair? To what extent do we remember or forget that the Lord is full of compassion and mercy? Why is this?
Being vulnerable with each other does not come easily to many of us. Allowing others into areas of our lives such as sickness or sin requires a great deal of trust and honesty. However, importantly, in this togetherness we find a new-found
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. In November prayers will be centred on Jesus, who brings healing.
JESUS, HEALER FOCUS by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts (Secretary for Spiritual Life Development) SATURDAY 25 NOVEMBER – MARK 2:1–12 Four men carried their paralysed friend to Jesus and lowered him through the roof. Jesus’ first response is to forgive his sins – a scandal in the eyes of the religious leaders who thought that disability was a punishment from God. Forgiveness is followed by complete physical healing. Lord, help us recognise our deep need to be ransomed, healed, restored and forgiven. Amen. freedom; our faith is deepened and our relationships with each other and with God grow exponentially. When we allow ourselves to become vulnerable, we can find true healing and freedom in Christ. Our study passage tells us of our great responsibility to bring others back into truth (see vv19 and 20), exercising deep honesty, integrity and courage. James reminds us that Elijah was just an ordinary human being like us and yet, when he prayed, things happened (see vv17 and 18) – big things! As a younger Christian, I was encouraged – not least by trendy ‘Push’ wristbands – to ‘Pray Until Something Happens’. The idea being that, if we are persistent in prayer, we will bring about the changes we are hoping for. I wonder what would happen if, like Elijah, we didn’t just stop there, but we kept on praying, beyond the hope, beyond the waiting. PAUSE AND REFLECT What do you do in the waiting? Are you quiet?
SUNDAY 26 NOVEMBER As we have reflected this week on Jesus, healer, bringing health and wholeness to mind, body and spirit, let us pray: ‘Thy touch has still its ancient power;/ No word from thee can fruitless fall;/ Hear in this solemn evening hour,/ And in thy mercy heal us all’ (SASB 696).
VALUES FOCUS by Major Beverly Baker (Senior Personnel Officer, THQ) MONDAY 27 NOVEMBER – BOLDNESS Lord, if I’ve lacked confidence or motivation, I lean into your conviction and holy courage (see Acts 4:31). If in my eagerness to fulfil your mission I’ve done that in ways that others experience as patronising or bullying, then I’m sorry. Help me express boldness humbly (see Philippians 2:1–7), encouraging the learning of new ways together. Amen. TUESDAY 28 NOVEMBER – COMPASSION Lord, as I live out your life of love, help me to do so with care, kindness and a generous and forgiving heart (see Colossians 3:12-14). Forgive me and help me when I slip into being judgemental, condemning and blaming others (see Romans 14:10). Amen. WEDNESDAY 29 NOVEMBER – PASSION Lord, thank you for entrusting me with life-enhancing abilities, gifts, skills and knowledge (see Ephesians 2:10). I’m sorry for when fear or cynicism limits my contribution (see Revelation 3:15) or when my single-mindedness limits participation by others. Help me to keep listening, learning and offering you who I am and what I have (see Ephesians 6:7). Amen. THURSDAY 30 NOVEMBER – RESPECT Lord, I’m sorry for when I have regarded others with contempt or as if they need to earn or deserve my respect (see Luke 10:29–37). Help me to live out God’s love (see Deuteronomy 6:5; Luke 10:27), to always be courteous to and about people, seeking to see potential (see Mark 12:43) and to build mutual and collaborative relationships. Amen.
Are you active? Are you praying?
FRIDAY 1 DECEMBER – INTEGRITY Lord, have I manipulated or misused power or influence (see Jeremiah 23:1–4) or failed to be honest or to keep my word (see James 3)? Help me fulfil my ‘yes’ (see Matthew 5:37), to be trustworthy, to be noble, upright and true (see Philippians 4:8 and 9). Amen.
MAJOR SARAH BUTLER Corps Officer Bognor Regis
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.
INTERVIEW
Restored to wholeness Lyn Woods talks to Restored UK CEO Bekah Legg and Director of Family Ministries Major David Betteridge about their partnership working with survivors of domestic abuse What is Restored UK and how did your collaboration with the Army come about? Bekah Restored UK was founded 13 years ago as a response to violence against women and girls. Our research showed that the form of violence most women were most likely to experience was domestic abuse, which is as prevalent within the Church as it is outside it. As an organisation, we have three key focuses. First, to speak up about violence against women and girls, to raise awareness. Second, to support survivors, especially Christian women who have been subjected to domestic abuse. Third, to equip churches to recognise and respond to domestic abuse. Last year we launched our Restored Beacon network, where churches partner us to stand against domestic abuse in all its forms – physical, mental, emotional, financial, spiritual – supporting survivors and changing the culture in their communities, starting within the Church. David My passion as an officer to stand against abusive behaviour – particularly within domestic situations and certainly within the Church – has been used by God in my appointment as Director of Family Ministries. I wanted to make a difference in this area for us as The Salvation Army and to explore first how we were addressing the issue of domestic abuse within our Movement. God requires that we have our own house in order before we can seek to address the impact of these sinful behaviours on those outside it. Honest introspection and accountability for any historical failings in this area are vital for us to work justly and support people outside our churches with integrity. Restored UK has a wealth of experience and resources to train and support advocates at corps and centres and, in turn, those who are victimised, and we are honoured to be working with them.
Bekah Legg
Major David Betteridge
How does this partnership connect with Army mission priorities? David The most obvious ways are in seeking justice and reconciliation for survivors and serving others without discrimination, in relation to both victims and perpetrators of domestic abuse. My Family Ministries role brings with it responsibility for women’s ministries – we’re fighting to make sure that women and girls are treated in the way they ought to be as people who belong to the Kingdom. The Army has a great history of allowing women to be leaders and respecting women as leaders. The challenge for current leaders is in recognising that there is still some way to go in seeking justice for all women within the Army, the Church and across the world. Men absolutely need to be part of this process. We need men to speak up and be part of the solution. Many men experience domestic abuse themselves, and we need to hear their voices. Part of my passion is to make sure that there is good Christian teaching on the issue of domestic abuse, thus 8
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nurturing disciples of Jesus. It’s essential that Scripture isn’t weaponised and used in inappropriate ways, perpetuating abusive behaviours that are wholly against God’s wishes. Over time, the Bible has been misrepresented and misinterpreted to justify abuse within the Church and within the home. Subordination of women in this way is not acceptable. Christ must be at the centre of all we do, if there is to be any
Help is available For confidential, non-judgemental support and information, contact the freephone 24-hour National Domestic Abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247 (UK) or 1800 341 900 (Ireland). If you are in danger, call 999.
into the three-level training for churches. The first, domestic abuse awareness, takes a theological look at why domestic abuse happens. The second, understanding domestic abuse, teaches about God’s intentions for relationships and encourages church leaders to consider how an understanding of domestic abuse should affect the way they preach, pray with somebody or respond to something. The third, supporting a survivor, explores walking alongside somebody on their journey to wholeness. It’s about understanding the theology around all that and, most importantly, going back to Genesis and God’s original intention for how men and women should live alongside each other and together with him in community.
What advice do you have for a corps or centre considering becoming a Restored Beacon?
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Domestic abuse is as prevalent within the Church as it is outside it.
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real and enduring transformation of any situation. Sharing the good news that God is enough for any circumstance, in every circumstance, is what we hold on to and what motivates us.
What courses and training does Restored UK offer? Bekah Our survivors’ network is entirely online and people can join different courses, including a recovery and a wellbeing course. Churches can choose to run recovery courses too, which can be a great outreach into the community. For churches who become designated Restored Beacons, each beacon can look slightly different. At its core is the idea that people are no longer alone and that they have a community who will walk alongside them. On one level it is enhanced pastoral care, but you can say: ‘We’re not the experts, but we will walk with you and support you any way we can.’ One of the recovery courses follows the same flow as a normal recovery course in understanding domestic abuse, understanding yourself and knowing your value. It tackles and breaks down some of the theological misconceptions that leave survivors tied up in knots. Things that, on one hand, can be beautiful – such as forgiveness, being servant-hearted and putting others first – but which can be manipulated or just plain misunderstood, leaving survivors feeling as though they should have tried harder or prayed or persevered more. A survivor’s recovery often only goes so far because they still have old worries going back years and believe God is angry with them. Helping them let go of that is incredibly powerful. This theology is not only woven into our survivor courses but also
Bekah For consistency and continuity you need somebody who is passionate about domestic abuse and prepared to take the lead, preferably not the corps officer, who at some point will move on. You will need your leadership team to be on board and prepared to undertake the training and support it fully. David Family Ministries is available to support corps and centres in any way they need. All too often funding can be a stumbling block. For the Restored Beacon church training, provided in partnership with Restored UK, funding is available through our fundraising team. We don’t want concerns about money to prevent corps and centres from undertaking this vital work. Bekah When we train a church, we’re clear that you can extend support to whoever needs it in your community, within your capacity to do so. Restored UK is more limited in this way as a smaller organisation. David My predecessors sought to address the issue of domestic abuse and I respect and honour them for that and recognise God’s perfect timing in bringing things together at this point. With my responsibilities for Family Ministries throughout the territory, supported by Assistant Director of Family Ministries Deb Juster – who is taking the lead on our domestic abuse response – along with my team and Restored UK, I believe that God has created the way forward. We want to continue to allow him to use it in the fullest way possible. O For more information on responding to domestic abuse and
Restored Beacon churches, contact familyministries@ salvationarmy.org.uk. Find out more about Restored UK at restored-uk.org.
LYN WOODS Editorial Assistant Salvationist
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INTERVIEW
Learning to support survivors Lieutenant Amanda Sewell (Thorndale Family Centre) tells Salvationist about new domestic abuse training in the Ireland Division How did your passion for supporting survivors of domestic abuse come about? I’m a domestic abuse survivor. That was before I came into officership, but it’s certainly part of my journey. I’m a firm believer that God uses everybody’s brokenness in whatever ministry they are put in. I called out to the Lord in my lowest moment and he gave me the courage and ability to find help, even if it wasn’t always helpful – I learnt from that unhelpful help. Through all this I recognised that there is no single fix. We talk about recovery and addiction, but there is recovery out of domestic abuse and it is so unique to each individual that the best thing we can do is come alongside them. It is a journey from oppression into freedom and that’s what we’re looking for in people’s spiritual lives as well. How can we expect people to feel comfortable worshipping if they’re in that sense of oppression?
When did you first become aware of Restored UK? As a survivor. One of the questions survivors often want to know is, ‘What was it about me?’ Restored UK’s brilliant Survivors’ Manual covers all the practical stuff a survivor needs to know as well as the theology.
Is there still a taboo around discussing domestic violence? It isn’t one of those things we talk about. Even if people suspect something is going on, they don’t want to get involved because they don’t feel they know how to deal with it. We might think it doesn’t impact people within the Church, but one in four women experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. That statistic is no different for people in the Church. And that’s reported cases. How many are not reported? When I joined one of the corps in Belfast, I gave my testimony – and I don’t shy away from my history, because it is why I’m here today. Following that, several people told me about their experiences – it was only because I spoke about it that people spoke to me about it.
How did the divisional training begin? Within the first few months of my appointment, I became aware that a lot of the trauma within the families was due to domestic violence. I discovered a 2017 statistic that Northern Ireland had the joint highest rate of femicide in Europe. Instantly I was determined that something had to be done. The Restored Beacon model was then being promoted through Family Ministries. I knew we had to equip all our corps, because they need to be able to work with anyone who walks through their doors. If they say ‘I don’t know how to deal with person this’, not only will that perso seeking help feel ostracised by the Church, but they might also be left feeling completely hopeless. I divisional approached divisiona leaders Colonels Neil and Chris Webb. They amazing were amaz and straight straigh
on board. Then Deb Juster and Major David Betteridge from Family Ministries came over and I presented my vision that it needed to be not a corps-centric but divisional solution. I was expecting a ‘no that doesn’t fit the Restored Beacon model’, but everyone supported the vision. Family Ministries’ partnership with Restored has helped make it all happen, as well as funding from them and support from our divisional leaders. That doesn’t take away all the funding needs for corps, but it takes the biggest part of that obstacle away. And having passionate corps officers and members has been amazing.
When did the training take place? The three sessions have taken place between September and November. I was terrified nobody was going to come! I had to trust that the Lord had got it all in hand. We had more than 30 people attend each one. We have had representatives from most corps and Lifehouses. The feedback has been really positive.
What does the end goal look like? The larger corps can become Restored Beacon churches. The smaller corps will come under a divisional Restored Beacon lead, who will oversee and support anybody, so nobody’s on their own. Corps officers will have the divisional Beacon lead to consult should they need that support. More often than not, those responding to a victim are doing the right thing, but having reassurance and support is necessary to sustain yourself and prevent being hoodwinked and sucked in yourself by the abuser. It’s about building a strong network so people know that domestic abuse has no place in our churches, centres or communities, and provide a safe space for victims to begin their journey of recovery.
How does a corps or centre become a Restored Beacon? If you have any questions about what you can do where you are, I recommend getting in touch with Family Ministries at familyministries@salvationarmy.org.uk. O Some quotes from the training feedback are featured on the front cover.
SPOTLIGHT ON…
Stroud Building beauty from brokenness FAST FACTS DIVISION: South West CORPS OFFICER: Lieutenant Christopher Button FIND US ONLINE: facebook.com/100085994894675
REBUILDING LIVES, RENEWING HOPE I’ve been the officer here for about a year and a half. We are a Core Recovery church and more recently we have become a Restored Beacon. We start by understanding that everybody’s got brokenness in their life, things that they need to recover from. We’re trying to support the development of healthiness in people’s lives and, whatever that looks like for the individual, we will support that and help them. In Core Recovery we meet with people who are recovering from all kinds of brokenness and as a Restored Beacon we support people who have been subjected to domestic abuse, in its many forms. Our local area has quite high rates of domestic violence and abuse and that has a natural correlation with other behaviours and services. From discussions in our weekly recovery group and other groups, it emerged that a high percentage of those we serve had experienced abuse, in one form or another, and this led us to ask where to go from there. We contacted Restored UK, which has a partnership with the Army, and it snowballed from there. We are in the process of developing and training some of our corps leadership for that focus. It will be naturally integrated into all that we do, linking with our Core Recovery work and the holistic make-up of what we do as a church.
WORKING FOR WELLBEING We are starting a women’s wellbeing group, looking at health and self-care from a faith-based perspective, with the intention that it will feed from and into the recovery group. We’re aiming to have three people
Stroud Corps
Lieutenant Christopher Button
who will peer lead the women’s group and from there we’ll be able to provide one-to-one mentoring and support for people. We want to reach out to the wider community and work with other support agencies and contacts, such as Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service, the local women’s refuge and the GP surgery’s social prescriber.
COMMUNICATION IN COMMUNITY The more we make people aware that this is important and necessary, better communication will develop around it. We’re making sure we’ve got information displayed in key places, detailing what help is available locally, and incorporating it into our teaching and Bible study programme. Too often the Bible has been used to hurt women. We need our leaders to be trained to preach effectively and authentically about this issue so that our congregations and our organisation can raise up women. We want to do better and live up to who God wants us to be.
There is a high density of charities, churches, faith groups and support agencies within a small geographic area and strong community awareness between the different groups. We work closely and intentionally together to avoid overlaps and duplication. We receive continued support from the Family Ministries team and Core Recovery team and we’re taking it slowly, focusing on the congregation, inviting people along naturally. We are working for long-term sustainability from within the fellowship, rather than total dependence upon the corps officer. Our DHQ is very supportive of the idea that we must be brave for a few years, while we go through a time of change and development. We pray that God will bless and use our work and that we will see great returns for the Kingdom. O To find out more about Restored Beacon churches, contact Family Ministries at familyministries@ salvationarmy.org.uk or visit restored-uk. org/partner/churches/restored-beacons.
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Christmas mailing list AFRICA
ANGOLA Majors Amaro & Susan Pereira KENYA EAST Lieut-Colonels Ann and Kenneth Hawkins MALI REGION Major Janice Lahouel TANZANIA Captains Benjamin and Rebecka Cotterill UGANDA Majors David and Janet Howarth
AMERICAS AND CARIBBEAN
BRAZIL Christiaan Bijl and Stephanie Chagas-Bijl Major Philippa Chagas
EUROPE
EASTERN EUROPE Lieut-Colonels Richard and Ann Borrett GERMANY, LITHUANIA AND POLAND Majors Christopher and Liesl Baldwin Colonels Cedric and Lyn Hills NETHERLANDS, CZECH REPUBLIC AND SLOVAKIA David Kozacek and Michaela Kozackova SWEDEN AND LATVIA Captain Mark Cotterill SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA AND HUNGARY Captain Rebecca Zűnd
SOUTH PACIFIC AND EAST ASIA AUSTRALIA Captains David and Kate Donaldson
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Salvationist 25 November 2023
TERRITORIAL STRUCTURE UPDATE
Booting up In November’s Structure Co-ordination and Design Project update, Head of Digital Emily Casson (Marketing and Fundraising, THQ) shares how the territory’s Digital Section can support local mission flourishing
A
LTHOUGH the major structural and process changes concluded in July, the territory continues to reimagine how it works to ensure ongoing improvement that helps local mission flourish. As part of this, the new Digital Section of territorial services brings together the Digital Communications, Digital Projects, Digital Marketing and Fundraising teams, as well as the soon-to-be-developed Digital Insights team. This new section is an investment in digital so mission delivery and support functions are more effectively resourced to enable greater efficiency and opportunity. It is also a commitment to empowering mission expressions’ use of digital platforms and tools, and to adopting a ‘digital mindset’ – that is, incorporating new technologies, considering the needs and experiences of the end user and remaining agile and adaptable in providing solutions. The landscape in which we all operate has evolved significantly in a postCovid-19 pandemic world. The Digital Section will help you navigate and embrace digital technologies and strategies to help your expression flourish and enhance our collective impact in communities. We can help identify opportunities across the organisation where digital solutions can support your mission delivery, drive your online profile and encourage people to engage with you locally as The Salvation Army. Our teams can support you in this:
Digital Marketing and Fundraising Fundraising is at the centre of this team’s work and can support you by making sure a steady flow of resource is brought into The Salvation Army and reaches local expressions. We harness the full potential of digital channels to amplify our campaigns, messaging and supporter experiences, to reach audiences already warm to our work but also to reach and engage with new people. As part of this, we also want to support you in your digital plans, including help
implementing and managing campaigns, engaging audiences with email marketing and automated journeys and increasing online giving through personalised donation experiences with Fundraise Up. Right now we’re supporting Strawberry Field in Liverpool and Hadleigh Farm to increase footfall and ticket sales through targeted digital advertising. We’re also providing tailored support to a number of corps wishing to develop e-newsletters. In early 2024 we will be working with a pilot group to transition from JustGiving as a way of fundraising locally to Fundraise Up, which frees up corps for mission and away from the often cumbersome and frustrating backend setup and administration – the Digital Marketing and Fundraising and Community Fundraising teams will pick up all the administration with corps still having total control.
Digital Communications Territory-wide, this team focuses on strengthening our external digital communication channels, ensuring our key messages are heard, seen and understood. Through digital media, we drive campaigns that highlight our work nationally and in communities across the UK, manage content on the salvationarmy.org.uk website and official UKI Salvation Army social media channels, and share stories of the incredible ministry from local settings. Our aim is to tell the Army’s story of transformed lives and amplify the voices of the people who come to us for help. This team can provide you with practical support, training and advice on harnessing social media and optimising your website content to help increase engagement and awareness of your ministry. As part of the Structure Co-ordination and Design Project’s listening stage, it was highlighted that there was a need to ensure good quality, effective and relevant social media and web presence
for local mission to flourish. Some additional capacity is now in place to focus on social media/website support and other digital requests from local mission expressions.
Digital Projects Any expert support and advancement you need in your project is available from this team. It works closely with local mission to realise objectives, recommend digital solutions and offer support in implementation of digital tools. This team is responsible for the growth and maintenance of digital assets, such as contactless donation devices, digital ticketing solutions and a wide array of digital marketing and fundraising tools and agencies. We know and understand the challenges corps officers face with the current contactless donation devices, and the implications this can have on fundraising, so we’re working with Finance and Procurement to introduce new contactless suppliers. The tender will be complete mid-December and we will be collaborating with Community and Events Fundraising and Finance to execute a smooth transition to these new devices.
What’s next? In 2024 we’re embarking on an internal research project. We understand that every mission expression and its leadership is unique and manages a number of priorities. To ensure we continue to offer the best support to you, we’ll be delving into the challenges you face in the digital sphere, drilling down on what we can do better to ensure your mission flourishes. To continue our development, we will need you involved in the conversation and to have your help in developing pilot programmes and new digital initiatives to meet your needs. O For more information, contact digital@
salvationarmy.org.uk. If you have any feedback or questions for the SCDG, please email transformation@ salvationarmy.org.uk. Salvationist 25 November 2023
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ARMY UPDATES
MUSIC
LEEK The Household Troops Band performed to a capacity congregation. The afternoon saw an open-air where they were introduced by the town crier. More than 100 people stopped to listen, several of whom later contacted the corps Facebook page. The band marched back to the hall to prepare for the evening festival. Everyone commented on how much they enjoyed it. – RJ
ANNIVERSARY
ANNIVERSARY MAIDSTONE The 141st corps anniversary celebrated God’s work among his people of all ages, and centred around building God’s Kingdom. The young people received books to encourage them on their spiritual journeys and loved building Lego houses on rock and sand, watching one collapse while the other remained standing. People went forward to pick up a card to recognise that they are the living stones God is building into his spiritual temple. – GP
MUSIC
NORTH SHIELDS The International Staff Band received a warm welcome to the 145th corps anniversary as they enthused, entertained and challenged. The Saturday programme included new and old music, and God used the band to minister to and bless those listening. After the Sunday morning meeting the band shared with corps folks in coffee fellowship and a light lunch. Some band members played to Lieut-Colonels Janette and Ron Smith, as Lieut-Colonel Ron has been unable to attend the corps due to ill health. Celebrations concluded with a festival of music. The host songsters and band supported the ISB throughout the weekend. It was a time of worship and praise that glorified God both inside and outside the hall! – SC
EVENT
ST IVES The mayor of St Ives joined the celebrations of the first anniversary of Surf Church. The weekly beach meeting with breakfast, faith and time in the sea has created great opportunities to share the gospel and support one another. It has also been really fun! – NL 14
Salvationist 25 November 2023
HADLEIGH TEMPLE A concert in memory of THQ fleet manager Matthew Schroeter, who died earlier this year aged 40, raised more than £1,000 for The Children’s Trust. Sixty-seven players of Epping Forest Band and Thundersley Brass Band, of which Matthew was a member, performed Salvation Army music in his memory. – AR
ANNIVERSARY
DOUGLAS Corps folk celebrated 140 years of service and worship on the Isle of Man. On Saturday, about 100 people attended a delicious three-course meal, enjoying fellowship together. On Sunday, special guests Colonels Paul and Jenine Main (both THQ) greatly encouraged the corps with their ministry, with people travelling far and wide to support this momentous occasion. The corps celebrates the past and looks forward to all that God has in store for the future. – DN
FUNDRAISING
BRIEF UPDATES WELLING The corps hosted a well-attended mental health awareness training day. Clinicians and the chaplain from the borough’s mental health department spoke on the importance of wellbeing. The session further cemented the corps belief that God is calling them to be a place of support and sanctuary. – KS SHAW Corps anniversary celebrations included a faith tea and film night watching The Prince of Egypt, complete with popcorn, juice and ice cream. About 25 people attended, including two who had been invited. – KH
BECCLES Eighty-nine-year-old Peter Langford cycled from Land’s End to John o’ Groats to raise money supporting the Army’s work tackling homelessness. He raised approximately £40,000, split between the Army and local charity Access Community Trust. Peter said: ‘I am aware of my good fortune in having a home to live in. It makes me very aware of people who are homeless and I pray for them almost every day.’ – AR
ANNIVERSARY
PENARTH The corps celebrated its 141st anniversary. Corps officer Major Jo Walters considered how God has been faithful to the corps and how corps folk have been faithful to him. Major Jo reminded the corps not to be afraid, but to be strong and to finish the task of building God’s Kingdom. She asked: ‘What does God want us to do as individuals and as a corps?’ The celebrations followed a Harvest meal the previous week, with the corps thanking God for all he supplies. – CP ABERTILLERY Bandmaster Alan Bowd sounded the Last Post and Reveille at the town Remembrance Sunday service, which was attended by former servicemen, local organisations and townspeople. The chairman of the Royal British Legion attended an indoor remembrance service at the hall. – AB LOUTH Corps officer Captain Callum Thompson led the meeting bound in military-grade handcuffs, while sharing up-to-date statistics regarding modern slavery. – CT
ALNWICK The 140th corps anniversary events included an ecumenical evening at the town’s parish church, with proceeds boosting the town’s Christian Aid appeal. Attendees were richly blessed by the North East Divisional Youth Chorus and a Christian Aid representative shared about the charity’s range of work and lobbying. – AA
COST OF LIVING
STOCKPORT HEATON NORRIS Navendu Mishra, MP, visited to celebrate the weekly luncheon club’s 50th anniversary. The initiative offers a substantial, affordable meal at a time when the cost of living crisis is seeing more people than ever pushed into poverty. – AR
SKEWEN In the absence of a corps officer, Divisional Envoy Ian Browning led the morning meeting, focusing on being more like Jesus. ‘People will remember you and you will remember people,’ he said. The band and songsters brought blessing with their contributions. The evening meeting was led by Major Sylvia Watts on the theme Prayer. It was a good day of meaningful worship. – SL SWINDON CITADEL A Scones of Praise meeting saw tables laden with cream teas. Favourite songs were chosen by the congregation, with Songster Leader Andrew Wicker’s choice, ‘The Goodness of God’, sung by Elliott Chappell (Regent Hall). Corps Sergeant-Major Jane Carter spoke about trusting God in all circumstances. There was a good number of visitors, some of whom had returned to say farewell to Helen Chappell, who was relocating after a lifetime in Swindon. – SR WIMBLEDON The corps arranged a William Wilberforce walking tour for Anti-Slavery Day. Corps member and Blue Badge Tourist Guide Richard Smart took 25 people who signed up for all or part of the tour. Walkers were informed about how to join the fight against modern slavery, and the walk raised money for the Big Collection, specifically for the modern slavery survivor fund. – AW
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NEW COMMITMENTS
BLACKBURN
ABIGAIL Dawson was enrolled as a soldier by her parents, corps officers Majors Ashley and Nasreen Dawson. Abigail’s grandfather, Major Alistair Dawson, offered a prayer of dedication. Abigail testified to a growing realisation that God had always been present in her life and to a milestone faith conversation she had with her parents that led her to make her decision to explore faith through soldiership. Abigail chose all the songs for the meeting, each reflecting a milestone on her faith journey. Also pictured is Bandmaster Eric Millest, who led recruits classes. – AD ALICE Wilson was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Captain Wendy Leisk. Alice was brought up in the Army and returned to the corps when she retired, having lived in Canada for many years. Songs Alice chose for the meeting included ‘I Stand Amazed in the Presence’ (SASB 466), ‘Jesus, My Lord’ and ‘All That I Am’ (SASB 568). Family and friends attended this celebration, hearing of Alice’s obedience in taking this next step on her spiritual journey. Also pictured are Colour Sergeant Jim Addie and Recruiting Sergeant Mary Howie. – WL
HAMILTON
KILMARNOCK
ALICE Mair and Sharon McGregor were enrolled as soldiers by corps officers Captains Emma and Les Heal. Alice, almost 90 years old, grew up within a Salvationist home and was dedicated at the corps as an infant. In early adulthood she moved to a different denomination, but maintained a link with the corps. In recent times, Alice returned to worship and corps activities and felt it was time to make her commitment formal by becoming a soldier. Her commitment to the Lord and the Army is heartfelt and genuine. Sharon grew up within a Christian home and, upon marriage, joined her husband’s denomination. Despite regular attendance, she began to feel the need for deeper spiritual connection to her Lord. Her introduction to the Army came through an invitation to the home league and later to the friendly knit and natter fellowship. She felt welcomed and included at both groups and soon felt drawn to attend Sunday worship, quickly realising she had found the spiritual home she had been seeking. Sharon is now a volunteer at various corps activities. – EF
WHITEHAVEN
LEIGH-ON-SEA
JUNE Christy and Katy Rush were welcomed as adherents by corps officers Captains Clare and Robert Davis. They were supported by family and friends in the congregation. June, Katy and Captains Clare and Robert are shown with Adherents Secretary Thelma Beacham. – PJ 16
Salvationist 25 November 2023
DAVID Grundill was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Major Steven Watson. In his response, David commented how he felt at home since starting to attend the corps earlier this year. Prayer was offered by Recruiting Sergeant Anne Roberts, who is also pictured. – SW
PRESENTATIONS
NORTH SHIELDS
CANTERBURY
DURING a visit from the International Staff Band, Staff Bandmaster Stephen Cobb presented Band Secretary Eric Mercer with a certificate of appreciation for 60 years’ service as a bandsman at the corps. Corps officer Major Barry Ashton gave thanks through prayer for Eric’s faithful service – past, present and future. – SC
READING LOWER EARLEY
MARGARET Mortlock (right) and Myra Finch accepted the Royal Horticultural Society and Thames and Chilterns in Bloom It’s Your Neighbourhood – Level 4 Thriving award on behalf of the corps, for their hard work on the corps garden, which also resulted in a silver Eco Church award. – LW
A NEW sound desk was dedicated in memory of Gordon and Gwen Boyer, who faithfully served at the corps from 1967 to 2020. Their family joined as their lives and service were celebrated. – KC
SITTINGBOURNE
FALKIRK
JOHN Marquis was presented with a certificate by corps leader Territorial Envoy William McMurray upon retiring as bandmaster after 23 years’ service – and serving as deputy bandmaster before that. John was thanked for his commitment to the band over the years and his wife, Yvonne, received flowers. – AH
SONGSTER Maureen Ivory presented the corps with a promoted to Glory flag in memory of her parents, Corps Secretary George and Songster Grace Pamplin. The picture shows Maureen with corps officer Major Simon Perkin and Majors Derek and Susan Jones, who dedicated the flag, thanking God for the lives of the two former soldiers of the corps. – SP Salvationist 25 November 2023
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
ARMY PEOPLE
Local officers appointed ASST CT BEVERLEY YOUNGS, Clacton CS MANDY HARRISON, Willenhall
Dedicated to God BEATRIX LAYLA DAVIES, daughter of Helen and Scott Davies, at Brighouse by Major Brenda Irvine
Wedding anniversaries Emerald (55 years) SONGSTER LINDA AND SONGSTER WESLEY PAXTON, Lockerbie, on 7 December
ENGAGEMENTS General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham Tue 28 Nov UKI THQ (official opening) Wed 6 Dec – Sun 17 Dec New Zealand and Fiji
Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill and Territorial Leader for Leader Development Commissioner Gill Cotterill Tue 28 Nov UKI THQ (official opening) Sat 2 Dec – Sun 3 Dec Hendon Tue 5 Dec Royal Albert Hall (Celebrating Christmas with The Salvation Army) Thu 7 Dec Trafalgar Square (lighting of Christmas tree)
Chief Secretary Colonel Paul Main and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Jenine Main Tue 28 Nov UKI THQ (official opening) Tue 5 Dec Royal Albert Hall (Celebrating Christmas with The Salvation Army)
Retired officers’ birthdays MAJOR JOHN WATERS, 90 on 1 December MAJOR FRANCIS NEWNES, 90 on 2 December
NOTICES
MAJOR MARGARET FAIRLIE, 90 on 7 December
Shine Your Light
MAJOR PAMELA BROWN, 85 on 7 December
This ecumenical campaign calls churches and believers across England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to take the Christmas message outdoors on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 December. Resources are available and you can add existing events to the campaign map. For more information, go to salvationist.org.uk/shineyourlight.
Promoted to Glory ALAN ENGLAND, Southampton Sholing COLIN DRURY, Cumbernauld JEAN MISKIN, Worksop PETE PAPWORTH, Waterbeach
SOUNDS
KEN SHEATH, Isle of Wight, on 2 November
Sunday Worship
LIEUT-COLONEL JEAN PEARCE-HAYDON from her home on 8 November
This week’s Sunday Worship is led by Captain Rob Westwood-Payne (Maidenhead). Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of Sunday Worship highlights, including music, prayer and a Bible message. Each week’s broadcast is also repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.
Bereaved GWYNVA DRURY, Cumbernauld, of her husband Colin Drury, Songster Joanna Drury, Dundee, BM Paul Drury, Bo’ness, David Nelson and Gwyneth Clark of their father, Songster Ann Fuller, Staines, of her brother MAJOR DEIRDRE GIBSON, SL David Miskin, Milton Keynes Central, and Stuart Miskin, Doncaster, of their mother Jean Miskin SANDRA PAPWORTH, Waterbeach, of her husband Pete Papworth FREDA WRAY, Blackpool Citadel, and Marion Swingler, York, of their sister Major Joyce Holmes LIEUT-COLONEL JOHN PEARCE-HAYDON of his wife Lieut-Colonel Jean Pearce-Haydon TE SUE YOUNGER, Cramlington, of her mother Patricia Berryman 18
Salvationist 25 November 2023
O Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio.
Fully Scored Captain Nicholas Samuel shares about his life, music and faith. Nick, who grew up in Warrington, is now the corps officer at London Citadel in Canada. Matt Woods, recently appointed as Songster Leader of the USA Central Territory Staff Songsters, shares his album of choice for Arid Island. And William Himes takes time out of his UK conducting tour to talk about his 50-year-old piece ‘Battles’. O Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts.
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel Reflect on the words of Christmas carols in this weekly Advent devotional podcast, inspired by the book of the same name. Episodes are released each Friday from 24 November, beginning with Lieutenant Nazia Yousaf (Stockport Heaton Norris) talking about ‘O Come, O Come, Emmanuel’. O Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts.
ADVERTS
A Gift for Christmas
CLASSIC HYMNS FOR ORCHESTRA Arranged by Kenneth Downie
1998 ~ MGS ~ 2023
CD available from kennethfdownie@gmail.com £12 plus postage and packaging (£3 inland)
Marriage Guidance Services
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After 25 years of providing free professional counselling and couple relationship support, as of 1 December, Marriage Guidance Services closes its doors for the last time. The long and hard work of those within and outside The Salvation Army has not gone unnoticed, with MGS providing support and counselling in the UK, USA and Spain. We thank and praise God for 25 years of ministry, offering a heartfelt thank you to the army of counsellors and colleagues who worked so tirelessly along the way. Wishing Salvationist readers a wonderful Christmas, full of love, peace and joy! Major Jorgen Booth Founder/Director of MGS 36 Emmbrook Court, Woolacombe Drive, Reading RG6 5TZ. Tel: 07711 148538
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