DRIVERS OF CHANGE SEEKING JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION
IT seems almost impossible to go about our daily lives without being faced with examples of injustice. Bad things happen to good people and bad people seem to find new ways daily to exploit those who are vulnerable. Were we so inclined, it would be easy to despair at the selfishness and hatred around us. And yet, as Christians we are reminded that God is a God of justice. It is not his will that people suffer and are exploited.
One of this territory’s mission priorities is to seek justice and reconciliation, responding to God’s intention and nature. This week’s issue explores what that looks like and how we are seeking to address injustice wherever we may find it and bring about reconciliation.
Micah 6:8 reminds us: ‘What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.’
As we live in a broken world and see inhumanity brazenly displayed or deviously hidden, rather than ask why it happens, let us remind ourselves why we continue to respond.
MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN Editor
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Issue No 1984
EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn
MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS
Stevie Hope, George Tanton, Lyn Woods, Major Margaret Bovey, Major Lynne Shaw
SENIOR DESIGNER Hannah Holden
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Louise Phillips, Joseph Halliday, Oyindamola Olagunju
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.
FOUNDERS William and Catherine Booth
Picture: Paul Harmer
The right way up
Following International Development Week, Major Kerry Coke reflects on the Army’s international work tackling injustice
ON a hot Paraguayan afternoon in 2017, I sat in the garden of a woman who had invited the local home league to lead a food and nutrition class. It was arguably the most Christfilled experience of my life. Children were fed, money-saving recipes were shared, stories of the love of Jesus were told, and joy was in abundance. I remember knowing that Heaven was being experienced on Earth.
As The Salvation Army marks International Development Week (19–25 October), I wonder: when we engage in international development – as a financial supporter, a pray-er, an on-the-ground responder or an organiser – are we turning the words of the Lord’s Prayer into a living, beautiful entity?
Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be your name
‘Our Father’ – never have we needed to understand the full picture of ‘family’
Reflect and respond
Find out more about International Development Week at salvationist. org.uk/id-week.
The week’s theme is New Beginnings. Reflect on the example of Joseph in Genesis 37–50, who trusted in God as he worked through him for God.
Pray the Lord’s Prayer over the Army’s international development work.
more than we do now. We are more than individual people created in the image of God; we are brothers and sisters. When we right the wrongs of a particular situation, we do so for our family. Calling God ‘our Father’ reminds us we are under his care and within his love.
Your Kingdom come, your will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven When we take our people or programmes into a place that is hurting, we’re often confronting systems and policies that have forced our ‘family members’ into poverty and despair. When we distribute emergency vouchers or build toilets or provide education, we are overturning the world as it is and helping – by the grace of God – to see it become the world as it should be.
Give us today our daily bread
This speaks to us of sharing and of being content with what we have as much as feeding programmes for those facing starvation. International development work begins with each one of us remembering that when we take too much for ourselves, the rest of our family suffers. Our work will sometimes involve tough decisions about equitable distribution of resources – we need prayerful support to get that right so communities can look after themselves.
And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us So much of our work is about
forgiveness and reconciliation. Where there are members of our wider family weighed down by injustice, we play our part in addressing this and promoting reconciliation, inclusion and cohesion. And that’s not just about humankind either. Where there is drought and we are helping people access life-giving water, we are playing a role in reconciling people to Earth and, ultimately, trying to reconcile Heaven to Earth.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil
For those at home, we pray that we learn to live with enough. For those involved in development programmes, we pray for protection to uphold integrity, accountability, ethical conduct and transparency.
For the Kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and for ever. Amen.
We do this work as an act of praise and worship to God. It’s God’s Kingdom we’re helping to build, not ours.
• Based on an article originally published in the spring 2024 Develop magazine, published by the International Development UK team.
Carmine Diongono (Newcastle City Temple)
‘HandleLife Story’ by Dribble2much, Dame D.O.L.L.A. and Preme
I listened to the song a lot, mainly when I started basketball, because I only picked it up when I was 16. It kind of tells the same story I had, just the struggles of going through it, having two sports at the same time – playing football and basketball. This resonates with me a lot.
‘God’s Plan’ by Drake
No matter if people are doubting you or hating on you, as long as you put your trust in God, God’s plan will always be the best plan for you. I rate this song a lot.
‘See You Again’ by Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth
This song played after the leaving ceremony when I left primary school. Whenever I think about my childhood and stuff like that, this song comes to mind.
‘Thank You Lord’ by GodFearin and EmanuelDaProphet
This one talks about being thankful for God. Even in the good times and the bad times, you always have to appreciate God being there.
‘MisUnderstood’ by GodFearin
It’s a rap song about God. It’s the first ever rap song that I found within that genre that talks about God. As soon as I listened to this, I was like, ‘Wow, this really talks about some of the stuff that I went through.’ I’ve felt like I’ve been misunderstood sometimes in my life.
l Based on an episode of Salvationist Radio’s Me and My Playlist. The podcast features young people from across the territory, as they share five tracks they love. Listen to more episodes at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts.
‘God gave me a new life’
Carol Hallam (Shirebrook) shares the everlasting peace she has found in God
IN May last year, I retired from my workplace after 12 years due to ill health. I felt totally lost and didn’t feel there was a purpose to my life. I had no friends outside my old job and stayed in the house for most of each day.
My oldest daughter, Roz, had become an adherent at The Salvation Army. One day she invited me along to their café. I was quite dubious as I didn’t know what to expect and what the people would be like. I found a warm welcome. Everyone was so friendly and caring and I felt like I belonged. I have been going ever since.
My daughter then invited me
brothers in Christ. I want to thank them all for helping me and accepting me just as I am.
My friends and family have noticed a big change in me and say I am much calmer, happier and full of energy. My daughter laughingly says it’s like having a new mum.
I thank God for finding me and giving me such peace.
Have you got a testimony to share? We’d love to hear your faith story! Get in touch at salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk.
Mission priorities Explained
share the good news serve others without discrimination care for creation
seek justice and reconciliation
nurture disciples of Jesus
with Justice and Reconciliation Officer Captain John Clifton
Our intention as a territory is to love God and love others. How does seeking justice and reconciliation fit in with that?
We seek justice and reconciliation because we love others and we love God. It is all about living in the power of the Holy Spirit. Seeking justice and reconciliation shapes the world but also shapes us. As we work to move from the way the world is to the way the world should be, we’re also moving from who we are to who we are called to be. If the work is not grounded in our discipleship, then it will be grounded in other desires, or our own sense of justice, which can be warped.
Why is it one of our mission priorities?
We recognise in our second doctrine that God is the Creator, Preserver and Governor of all things. He is a God of justice and, as the people of God, we should therefore act justly. By acting for justice in the world, we are also participating in the ministry of reconciliation.
What is the biblical basis for it?
Matthew 25:31–46 reminds us that when we help others in need, Christ is present. It’s not as if we are symbolically doing something for Christ – we are actually doing something for Christ. We are also helping people in conditions of powerlessness to have more power. Thinking about those power dynamics helps us identify the structural problems that create these conditions of injustice. Change comes about from an interaction with a person who follows Jesus – through the dynamic presence of Christ.
Amos 5:24: ‘Let justice roll on like a river.’ Micah 6:8 says we must ‘act justly’, ‘love mercy’ and ‘walk humbly with your God’. We must be humble and, as Martin Luther King Jr’s six steps of nonviolent social change say, ‘eliminate hidden motives and prepare to accept suffering, if necessary, in your work for justice’.
Colossians 1:17: ‘He is before all things and in him all things, hold together.’ The
Lord’s Prayer (see Matthew 6:9-13) also reminds us that Jesus is Lord over everything.
Reconciliation is rooted in the principle of God reconciling all things to himself through Christ (see 2 Corinthians 5:11–21). We must pause to remember this work does not come from us and ground our seeking of justice and reconciliation in prayer.
What does seeking justice and reconciliation look like in practice?
Engaging with politicians to speak up for the marginalised and voiceless through the Public Affairs Unit’s work. The data collected from corps and centres helps identify community needs and informs policy work.
Community organising, as the Army drives forwards campaigns. Working with other organisations to do this is crucial – that doesn’t mean agreeing with all those allies on everything all the time. Collaborating with others is a work of reconciliation in itself.
The territory’s Family Tracing Service. As we help reconcile people to God, we are also helping reconcile people to each other.
and reconciliation in our immediate spheres. What does it look like to be a just person where you are? A just friend? A just employer? A just landlord?
awareness are essential, but are not always enough by themselves. It is also about discipleship and transforming our inner being – if we’re not sincerely living out God’s love, we’re not going to bring about God’s Kingdom.
When you are hospitable to someone else, you don’t expect them to change who they are first. Good hospitality involves a confidence in who one is. In a world where people are uncertain about who they are, which drives so much fear and tension, we have certainty of who we are in God.
What’s the end goal?
We’ve been tasked with the Great Commission: making disciples and helping reconcile everyone to God. There are about eight billion people on the planet – there’s a lot of work still to do!
What’s the biggest challenge we face in this mission priority?
A lack of awareness or not knowing how to respond, which can fuel inaction and apathy. We are called to love God and love others, not to be apathetic towards God and others. Without anger at the way things are and courage to act, there is no hope. We need confidence and boldness in both doing the work and how to do it. There’s a real opportunity to develop our understanding of what it is to be wholly sanctified, bringing our understanding of holiness together with how we engage in public life and live in the world today.
What’s the most encouraging thing about this mission priority?
Younger generations have a real sense of both justice and sincerity. As they live out discipleship and soldiership, they can show
What kind of example are you?
Calum Montgomery invites us to learn from Paul’s advice to Timothy
1 TIMOTHY 4:12–16
PAUL needed to encourage and remind Timothy of important truths. As we read his words in our study passage, we can receive that same encouragement and challenge because they apply to us too.
Timothy journeyed with Paul for some of his ministry. In his letter, Paul offers Timothy some advice and guidance. Timothy, a young Christian, is spreading the gospel to a world that didn’t want to hear it – in situations where God was desperately needed and maybe not being accepted.
In Matthew 5:14, Jesus tells his disciples: ‘You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colours in the world’ (The Message). In this letter, Paul urges Timothy, as a servant of Christ, to set an example for the believers.
As we go out in the world, spending time in our workplaces and with our friends and family, we are also called to be an example, a living testimony ‘in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity’ (v12) – an example in everything. That’s an easy sentence to type, yet to live it out is a completely different story. When we think of being an example, we can end up thinking that means never getting it wrong – always being perfect.
As Christians, being an example in the way we live doesn’t mean never asking questions or never struggling. Rather, it means, even in those moments where we can’t see God at work or feel his presence, continuing to trust him and put our faith in him. Throughout Scripture we see examples of this kind
of faith, such as Noah who continued to wait out the storm. There might have been moments where they questioned or doubted God, but they still turned to him and trusted him.
At the end of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said: ‘Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock’ (Matthew 7:24). He didn’t say the man building on the solid rock never faced trials or asked questions. Being an example in faith doesn’t mean hiding the moments of doubt; it means trusting through them.
How are we to be an example ‘in love’? Paul gives us the definition of love in 1 Corinthians 13, a passage we have all probably heard so many times. But how often do we actively reflect on how we show love every day? Are we patient and kind to the people who push our buttons? If we’ve had a tough week and we’re tired, do we show that love, even when something isn’t right? Being an example ‘in love’ means loving when we don’t want to, when we can’t be bothered to, and when we feel like some people don’t deserve to be loved.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
Who has been a good example to you?
Consider your speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.
To be a better example to others, is there an area where you particularly need God’s help?
If we are living as Jesus’ followers, this means giving ourselves wholly to God. Paul tells Timothy not to ‘neglect the spiritual gift within’ (v14 New American Standard Bible). The same could be said to us. We should not neglect the gifts God has given us. He has called us all to do his work on Earth and, whether we are in an official church position or not, God has called us to be his witnesses, to spread the good news. He equips us and places each of us where he can use us.
Paul reminds Timothy that his gifts and talents are all needed, just as our gifts and talents are needed for God’s plan. To be an example means to give those gifts back to God and use them as he directs.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
How has God gifted you?
Why might we choose to neglect our God-given gifts?
In our study passage, Paul reminds Timothy that his age should not be a barrier to serving Jesus (see v12). He identifies Timothy’s gifts as he writes: ‘Devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching’ (v13). Paul urges wholehearted commitment: ‘Be diligent in these matters … watch your life and doctrine closely’ (vv15 and 16).
The same goes for us: we need to dedicate our lives to Scripture, to spending time with God. Even if we aren’t on the platform preaching or leading a Bible study group, we are to be good examples.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
How can we spread God’s word if we don’t know it?
How can we share the comfort and love that only God gives if we aren’t spending time in his presence receiving it?
When I first looked at our study passage, I struggled to spend time with it. I felt like I knew it quite well. I had heard people use it at youth events to encourage and challenge us to go back to our corps and be an example. However, when I tried to sit with it, I just didn’t have the words. As I dug into it, I found I was struggling because it was something I needed God to tell me. As I write this Bible study, it’s not coming from a place of personal perfection, but from a place of honesty.
Being an example isn’t just an everyday thing. It’s an every-moment thing, and we can’t do it without Christ at the centre. If we are to be his example, we need to know him first.
PAUSE AND REFLECT
How do you seek to be ‘diligent’ in your walk with God?
How might spending quality time with God make a difference to every day?
As of January 2024, Prayer Matters is following a new prayer rhythm, to pray for renewal in this territory’s worship and mission. Each day has a theme, based on the five mission priorities. To read the unedited Prayer Matters booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship
SATURDAY 26 OCTOBER: CARE FOR CREATION – SWITCHING OFF ENERGY SOURCES
Father God, when the task of creation care seems too vast for us, give us the wisdom to know where we can begin. Help us to find the manageable changes, then gift us with the courage and determination to keep making them.
by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
SUNDAY 27 OCTOBER: SABBATH PRAYER – THE CHALLENGE OF BEING STRETCHED
Disturb me, Lord, when my dreams come true, only because I dreamed too small. Disturb me when I arrive safely, only because I sailed too close to the shore. Disturb me when the things I have gained cause me to lose my thirst for more of you. Disturb me when I have acquired success, only to lose my desire for excellence. Disturb me when I give up too soon and settle too far short of the goals you have set for my life.
from Captain Cor van der Woude (Bury)
MONDAY 28 OCTOBER: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – IRELAND DIVISION
The division is a small, close-knit community, and the smallness can create challenges and complexities. Pray for hearts to be set on fire with a love for Jesus, and that those who are able and willing to use their gift within the Church will be raised up into leadership. by Major Nina Wright (Belfast Citadel)
TUESDAY 29 OCTOBER: SERVING AND CARING – STEPS TO ACTIVE RECOVERY
Father God, we celebrate the work of STAR, and the collaboration between STAR and Core Recovery. Bless all the resources that are available to help those in recovery. by Major Jill Miller (Core Recovery prayer team)
WEDNESDAY 30 OCTOBER: GROWING IN FAITH – LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS
In a week when many will celebrate Halloween, we pray this blessing from Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals: ‘Walk in the light, the beautiful light. Come where the dewdrops of mercy shine bright. Shine all around us by day and by night, Jesus, the Light of the world. Now as we come to the setting of the sun, and our eyes behold the evening light, we sing your praises, O God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.’ by Major Meshiel Brown (Sunderland Citadel)
THURSDAY 31 OCTOBER: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – SOUTH AMERICA EAST TERRITORY
The territory comprises Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. The Army’s work began in Argentina in 1890 with four missionaries, none of whom spoke Spanish. We thank God for the immense fruit from that tiny seed, and pray that faith, hope and love will continue to transform lives as Salvationists share the gospel. We pray for the territorial leadership team, Colonels Philip and Sheila Davisson and Lieut-Colonels Elder and Roxana Dinardi.
by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
FRIDAY 1 NOVEMBER: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – FINANCIAL INCLUSION AND DEBT ADVICE SERVICE
The Financial Inclusion Team offer a not-for-profit debt advice service, supporting people burdened with debt. Pray for the staff, many of whom go above and beyond, as the demand for the service increases. Pray for them to find time to work in God’s strength and not their own. by Steve Wright (Financial Inclusion)
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 it will be upheld in prayer.
A river of justice
Commissioner Paul Main challenges us to stand for truth and righteousness
LIKE the newly commissioned Defenders of Justice, we are each called to defend what is true and right. Two minor prophets from the Old Testament, Micah and Amos, remind us not only of God’s heart but also that God wants his people to live justly and righteously.
The Book of Amos is as relevant today as when it was written. Amos was a fig farmer. He would use a stick to bruise the fruit to increase its sugar content. Thus, the phrase that he was a bruiser of justice. These figs, made sweeter by the bruising, were offered to the poor to eat because it was the only thing they could afford.
“ Justice is not a tap we can turn on when we want. ”
Amos was called by God to challenge the materialism and immorality of his society. Amos bruised the injustices around him. There was hypocrisy, apathy and a deep sin. Amos had plenty to preach about.
Today, as people called by God to truth and justice, we need to rediscover our prophetic voice. To speak out to a world that needs to see what God revealed to Amos: ‘Let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never‑failing stream!’ (5:24).
It’s not a gentle stream or trickle. It’s not a tap we turn on when we want. We’re called to a continuous flow of right actions and attitudes that runs deep within us. To bruise the injustice, to
be salt and light.
In the days of Amos, people were going through the motions, but their hearts were far from God. They were not living in a way that reflected God’s character or the values of the Kingdom.
Have we got caught up in the external trappings of religion? In the mechanics of Salvationism? Have we forgotten who our neighbours are and what it means, let alone what it takes, to love them?
In Micah, the people of God are called to seek justice not just for themselves but also for others: ‘What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God’ (6:8).
When we act justly, we reveal God’s character and holiness to the world. God calls us to share in his concern for the oppressed. To treat all people with dignity and respect, regardless of gender, social status and any other factor. To have an integrity that shines a light for God.
William Booth’s remarkable speech 112 years ago still rings true. While families go hungry, I’ll fight. While people are being exploited or trafficked, I’ll fight. While the rich get richer and the poor get poorer, I’ll fight. I’ll stand in the gap of those injustices and I will bruise, because I’m called to truth and justice.
Do you do justice, or do you merely affirm the idea of justice? It’s easier to rant about injustice than to take meaningful action against it. Doing justice makes time consuming, heart‑wrenching demands on us. It is personally costly. So God tests our hearts by making justice concrete and sacrosanct: justice is not an optional extra. It is something we must do. God also commands us to love mercy
and kindness. Loving kindness has the same heart revealing effect as doing justice. It goes beyond the occasional kind act to shape every action we take, everything we are.
We wear love – or the lack of it – on our sleeves and, like doing justice, loving kindness is costly. It requires loving people in ways that place their needs ahead of our own.
What does the Lord require of you? This is not about condemnation, but freedom. For God so loved us, in kindness and mercy, that he sent his Son to do justice for us. Jesus was bruised for our sins. For my sin.
Have we become so passive we’ve forgotten that discipleship is about radical living? Have you become so familiar with the rhythms of Salvationism that it no longer burns within you? What is God calling you to change?
The world needs defenders of justice. It needs an empowered Salvation Army to be bold, to be reminded of its DNA, to move from its comfort zone and get uncomfortable again, so that the world hears and knows a risen Saviour. Let’s be bruisers of injustice, defending truth and righteousness, so that our lives – my life, your life – are a testament to God’s glory.
• Based on Commissioner Paul’s Sunday message at Together 2024. Watch the full version at salvationist.org.uk/ together or listen to it at salvationist. org.uk/sunday-worship
COMMISSIONER
PAUL MAIN Territorial Leader
New beginnings
Project Manager Shital Roy shares how the Army is helping exploited women in Bangladesh find a path to freedom
SAANVI grew up in Jashore. Early in her marriage, her husband began to physically and emotionally abuse her. Struggling with drug addiction, he sold Saanvi into sexual exploitation in a brothel. Every day she endured abuse from clients, yet her pleas for help were met with indifference. Saanvi’s sardarni (‘madam’) kept all her money, so she felt powerless to escape. During this time, Saanvi met Arnab, a businessman. She became pregnant and gave birth to their daughter, Ishra. However, Arnab rejected them, threatening to kill or sell Ishra. Held captive by fear, Saanvi remained in the brothel, where she raised her daughter. At just 12 years old, Ishra was also forced into the sex trade. The cycle of exploitation continued.
For more than 30 years, The Salvation Army has had a project office across the road from three of Jashore’s brothels. The current phase of the project has been running since 2021. In developing this phase, staff interviewed women and children living in the brothels. A key component of local ownership has been ensuring the women and community members identify the problems, propose the solutions, and set the priorities of this project. By adopting such an approach, they have ensured the active participation of the community, maximised the use of local resources, and developed more innovative interventions.
Many of the women said they often felt they had few choices or alternatives to sex work. They were highly stigmatised as ‘bad women’ and excluded from society. Life after prostitution was also difficult. They were very often left without a safe place and felt they could be drawn back into prostitution at any time.
Financial freedom is therefore important. Between 2021 and 2023, the Army helped 35 women to exit the brothel and, of this group, trained 22 women in incomegenerating activities, according to their own interests. Activities included making and selling food, tailoring and sewing. The team partnered a non-governmental organisation, BASA Enterprise, to provide further training and support.
The team also conducted awareness sessions for both men and women in eight communities on social issues, such as child marriage, gender discrimination and human trafficking. They have trained 190 local community leaders, 50 teachers, 40 religious leaders, 418 students and 179 guardians in these topics, creating further awareness.
A further concern that women shared was that their children would be drawn into the same life. The team now works directly with the children who live in the brothels. Each day, the centre provides a space to study, play and take part in creative activities, such as singing and dancing. Children also receive nutritious
meals. The aim is to create a happy, stimulating environment.
The team are committed to ending the intergenerational cycle of sexual exploitation. In the case of Saanvi and Ishra, the team continued to reach out with support, and encouraged them to leave the brothel. After being offered a place to stay at her brother’s house, Saanvi left. However, Ishra, under threat from her sardarni, was reluctant to follow.
Not long after, Saanvi tragically suffered a stroke and died. The Army team arranged a discreet funeral. Ishra, now alone, sought help once more. She was keen to open her own grocery store. She was able to do so with support from the Army. The team continue to journey with her, hopeful that this alternative source of income, and moving to a new location, will give Ishra a new beginning.
• All names have been changed.
International Development Week
The theme for International Development Week (19–25 October) is New Beginnings, highlighting the transformative power of collaboration and community. Find out more at salvationist.org.uk/id-week.
Ending the injustice of domestic abuse
Major
David Betteridge shares an update on research within The Salvation Army
RECENT research by Coventry University and the University of Leicester – In Churches Too: Church Responses to Domestic Abuse – demonstrates that the incidence of domestic abuse is just the same within the Church as it is outside the Church. Of course, this includes The Salvation Army.
In response to this, the Family Ministries Department commissioned PhD level research in partnership with the University of Leeds, to have a fuller picture of the situation within our own Movement. A survey was circulated by our outstanding researcher, Amy QuinnGraham (Research and Development Department), which was subsequently completed by 172 people. The data collected gives us insight into the various experiences of those who have disclosed domestic abuse, or chosen not to, within the context of The Salvation Army. Through this we can begin to identify and address any unhelpful or even harmful attitudes
and practices highlighted.
Further research from the UK and beyond reveals how domestic abuse in the Church is surrounded by what Professor Nancy Nason-Clark (University of New Brunswick) called a ‘holy hush’. Many barriers stand in the way of Christian and churchattending victim-survivors from disclosing their experiences of abuse to their church leaders or community. These include harmful interpretations of Scripture that condone abuse as well as uninformed and ill-prepared individuals and structures.
Like all good qualitative research focused on people’s experiences, the survey data begins to give voice to those whose experiences have typically been brushed under the carpet. Early analysis of a small section of the survey related to experiences of disclosing – or choosing not to disclose – domestic abuse within The Salvation Army reveals three issues that generate
fear, which then becomes a barrier to victim-survivors sharing their experiences.
First, victim-survivors face a denial: the attitude that domestic abuse isn’t something that happens within The Salvation Army to The Salvation Army’s people. This silences victim-survivors, with some survey respondents explaining how they didn’t disclose domestic abuse because they didn’t want to lose their job or a position of leadership, including officership, or be judged by others within the Movement.
Second, victim-survivors experience a sense of danger: this is generated by the responses of officers/leaders who are not well enough equipped to deal with disclosures properly and safely. While no one expects them to be experts in addressing domestic abuse, respondents did want officers/ leaders to be able to respond well, and at least signpost to appropriate help and support. Some respondents, based on previous experiences, expressed
Belfast Sydenham becomes a Restored Beacon Church
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.
a fear of being dismissed, of harm being compounded or of simply being ignored.
Third, there is distrust that any disclosure will remain confidential: trusting that someone would keep their confidence was the most significant consideration for those who said they would disclose domestic abuse to someone in The Salvation Army. Some respondents shared experiences of broken confidentiality, including accounts of corps officers following up on their disclosure with the abuser.
As director of Family Ministries, I am grateful to those survey respondents who have been brave enough to share some very difficult and distressing experiences. The issue of domestic abuse is something that cannot be ignored, even though for many years attempts have been made to do just that, right across society. If we are true to the values of the Kingdom of God and The Salvation Army, this injustice cannot be allowed to continue. I have a great deal of respect for territorial leadership, which has allowed Family Ministries to commission this research and take the necessary steps to address the failings it highlights.
You will see from The Salvation Army’s international positional statement on domestic abuse –approved by the General in June 2024 – that ‘The Salvation Army is opposed to domestic abuse … is committed to standing with victims of domestic abuse … and holding persons who abuse accountable’. This reflects the Family Ministries Department’s desire to promote a God-given understanding of family. Scripture clearly tells us that everyone is created in his image (Genesis 1:26) and therefore has innate value. We are all part of this family and are called to love one another as brothers and sisters in Christ.
If the international Salvation Army is committed to ‘mutual respect
and healthy relationships between people, and will speak against domestic abuse in all its forms’, which I believe it is, then that voice is only made credible as we seek to put our own house in order.
Matthew 7:5 reminds us to ‘first get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye’ (New Living Translation).
In light of this, Family Ministries is pleased to be partnering the Christian charity Restored in promoting the Beacon Church initiative, equipping churches to provide a refuge for survivors, journey with them on their road to recovery and demonstrate God’s deep love for them. I have been pleased to attend the launch of several Salvation Army Beacon Churches, most recently at Belfast Sydenham. And I’m glad to report a growing interest in this initiative from other corps around the territory.
• If you would like to find out more about the research or becoming a Restored Beacon Church, contact the Family Ministries Department at familyministries@ salvationarmy.org.uk.
MAJOR DAVID BETTERIDGE Director of Family Ministries THQ
‘The Salvation Army is opposed to domestic abuse and any worldview that normalises such attitudes or behaviour. Every instance of abuse or violence is contrary to God’s plan for people and is unacceptable.’
Read the full international positional statement at salvationarmy.org/ihq/ ipsdomesticabuse
Amy Quinn-Graham
The start of something new
Matt and Hannah tell Salvationist about the Territorial Justice and Reconciliation Youth Forum’s first six months
IN March, The Salvation Army started something entirely new: the Territorial Justice and Reconciliation Youth Forum, a group of seventeen 14 to 25-year-olds passionate about playing their part in the work of change.
Led by co-chairs Matt (York) and Hannah (Sheerness) – and overseen by Joanna Taylor (Children and Youth Department), Territorial Coordinator for Justice and Reconciliation Lieut-Colonel Nick Coke and Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary Lieutenant Jonny Whitmore – the forum formed subgroups around three focuses: mental health, the climate emergency and modern slavery.
How have the first six months been?
Hannah There’s been a lot of learning, from how best to communicate to what the expectations of us are – all the things that come with starting something new.
Matt We’re currently picking things up again after the summer holidays. The subgroups have mostly been focused on ideas around raising awareness. We are also trying to move towards how to help make meaningful change on a local level.
Hannah We are now bringing the subgroups back together to see what we can make a real difference on in the next six months. We’ve chosen three complex areas, so it’s about setting realistic objectives, balancing working as a whole group with what’s already set up in the subgroups. We’ve had conversations with people from THQ who lead in certain areas, for example Territorial Environmental Officer Major Heather Poxon. We’ve also added Captain John Clifton to the team in his role as justice and reconciliation officer to help get more support with how to organise campaigns.
What are some of the things the subgroups have done so far?
Hannah The climate subgroup are looking at the Eco Church model and how to help corps join that. They are also looking at individual responsibility for climate justice: how can we live a climate-friendly life with what we eat, wear and buy? The modern slavery group are working with the Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery team, thinking about resources to help secondary school-aged children understand it, spot the signs and be advocates for change.
Matt The mental health subgroup are in research mode, exploring how informed people in corps and centres are around mental health issues. For example, how can they support someone who might come to their corps for help?
Hannah They also made a social media post for World Mental Health Day this month – we’re looking at key dates or events to anchor work around.
Did you get involved with the UK’s general election?
Hannah Yes, the forum helped the Public Affairs Unit with the voter registration campaign. About five of us were involved in the lead-up to a series of webinars and Naomi, our widening participation lead, and I spoke at them. I shared stories from Sheerness, where I did some voter registration work. We also gave feedback on the voter registration resources.
Have there been other highlights?
Hannah Visiting Lambeth Palace for the launch of its Difference programme. It reminded us that there are all these wider people involved in justice and reconciliation. Matt It was a good opportunity to speak and listen to people – for example, a
Christian Union university representative –and get insights and different opinions.
Is part of the excitement as co-chairs seeing forum members develop?
Matt Yes. It’s great to see, for example, people becoming subgroup leaders and getting leadership experience, running meetings, etc.
Hannah We’re all at the kind of ages of asking, ‘What do I believe?’ Integrity is important for us: we have to live by what we’re asking other people to do.
How does forum membership work?
Matt It’s initially a year for everyone.
Hannah If people want to carry on, and are asked back, then that can be renewed.
Matt I turn 25 next year, so I might be aged out!
Where do you hope to see the forum in a year’s time?
Hannah I hope we will be able to say ‘we did this in our local community’ or ‘as a forum, we put this in place’. Maybe that’s corps becoming bronze level Eco Churches. Maybe that’s people lobbying their MP or council about a housing problem and having the skills from the forum to do that. It is about passing on the knowledge of community-organising and justice-seeking from older generations, so that we have a group of young people with a wide geographical spread who have been skilled up.
Matt It will be great to have the forum established as representative of what young people in the Army want to see the Army do, what justice and reconciliation look like to them, and having those voices represented and heard.
• To get in touch with the forum, email childrenyouth@salvationarmy.org.uk
Forum members visit Lambeth Palace
Mitcham Hope on board
Drivers of change
Mitcham Salvation Army was planted by Raynes Park Community Church (Corps) in 2012, following research by Merton council and the Army, which highlighted the economic, social and housing issues faced by those living in the east of the borough. Statistics showed that, because of issues relating to deprivation, they were more likely to die seven years younger than those living in the west. The Eastfields Estate is described as being one of the most deprived wards in the borough, with below average levels of income, qualifications and higher levels of unemployment and benefit claimants.
There isn’t a public space to do our work, so this year we went down the creative route of a double-decker bus. Funded through the Legacy Department, the Omnibus is equipped with a small kitchen and enables us to be mobile and flexible, whether we are parked at the estate, in the town or at community events, such as carnivals. THQ teams, such as Procurement, Fleet and Safe Mission, have all been very helpful in developing this project
Connecting with community
Many people today are looking for a third space to socialise, especially when working from home. Some residents have lived here a long time, but have only now met other residents they didn’t know. It’s lovely to bring neighbours together in this space. We run a weekly ‘Crafternoon’ and have run sessions during the school holidays for families, and recently held a Cream Tea Service for older residents.
On the town
The council asked us to bring the bus into the town, which was recognised as a zone for anti-social behaviour. It has been a real people magnet: 65 teenagers turned up to our recent Pop-up Youth Club, which we run on Fridays with six qualified youth workers from the council. We connect with adults and families, listen to them or give them a hot drink. We also signpost people to services they need.
Meeting needs
We work with the local Family Hub, enabling support workers to engage with parents and families. We also provide Employment Plus on the bus, to help people into work. We had five work experience students with us recently. Two of them now regularly come to the bus on a Friday night.
In the winter, we plan on extending our hours in the town by opening the bus as a Warm Space. We have also met with NHS representatives about them potentially providing blood checks and other services. We were recently visited by our MP, Dame Siobhain McDonagh, who showed an interest in the project.
All aboard together
We wouldn’t be able to do all this without partnering local agencies. Many now come to the Friday sessions and run workshops, as they recognise the bus is where people are.
As we’re working with the council in this capacity, we need to be careful about how we talk about the gospel, but this is a connection point to build relationships as
we show God’s love by meeting practical and emotional needs. We also signpost people to nearby corps and churches.
Building and growing church
Our heart is in the estate and we don’t want to lose our connection with it. On the first Sunday of each month, our church community gathers for a meal at our house. We have a church community WhatsApp group so we can support each other. On the third Sunday, our Acts of Kindness group meet up to do acts of social justice, for example volunteering or litter-picking.
A home for the future
Eastfields’ redevelopment has been going for more than a decade and they have only just started knocking buildings down to build new ones. A lot of residents have moved away, but there will also be new people coming to the estate. We are a continuing presence to support people through the stress of moving, or seeing their home demolished and waiting for a new one. We are interested in what ‘home’ means for them, particularly those who have been recently bereaved and are about to start a new chapter in a familiar setting. Please pray for discernment in where we go next as The Salvation Army in Mitcham and how we serve and change the community. Pray also for people on the estate in this turbulent period, for peace and hope.
Fast Facts
DIVISION: London
CORPS OFFICERS: Captains Nick and Shelley Ward
FIND US ONLINE: salvationarmy.org. uk/mitcham
The Omnibus at Mitcham Carnival
INTERNATIONAL
Chaplaincy conference informs and challenges
NORWAY
MAJOR Carl Huggins (Prison Ministries), Assistant Prison Ministries Officer Josefiina Kalliokoski and six prison chaplains from the territory attended the European Salvation Army Prison Chaplains conference in Oslo.
The well-organised programme informed and challenged those present, while providing space for different experiences as well as spiritual recharging.
On Wednesday, they visited Bastøy Prison, a low-security establishment for men coming to the end of their sentences. The prisoners work in many different roles, including operating the fire engine on site – an important job considering most of the buildings are wooden and much of the land is covered by forest.
Some of the chaplains had worked in Norway’s high-security institutions, and the group was moved to see them be greeted enthusiastically by prisoners who recognised them. These men had progressed and were learning skills and independence that would allow them to be rehabilitated upon release. The group felt blessed to have shared in the privilege of ministry with international colleagues.
Pictured are Lesley Ann Redhead, Josefiina, Major Carl, Major Alex Cadogan, Kath Sneade, Major Catherine Dodd, Major Ria Campbell and Brenda Wood. – CH
HARVEST
KNOTTINGLEY The local United Reformed Church shared Harvest worship in the hall, with more than 30 people attending from both churches. They enjoyed a buffet and quiz to start the Harvest weekend, while more than 200 items were donated to the food bank. Pictured are John and Kathryn Keath. – MT
MUSIC
WINTON The International Staff Songsters visited for an inspiring weekend. After leading a workshop on Saturday afternoon, the ISS presented a festival that encouraged a packed hall. Items included ‘You Are the Song’, ‘I Have Seen the Glory of the Lord’, and ‘I’ve Just Seen Jesus’. The blessings continued on Sunday under the leadership of the new ISS executive officer, Major Lisa Lloyd-Jones (THQ). ISS member Elliott Chappell (William Booth College) gave a powerful and honest testimony and the corps sections took part, including the two songster brigades singing ‘He Is Exalted’. – JH
BARROW-IN-FURNESS On the Saturday night of Harvest weekend, 170 people attended a concert with Askam Town Silver Band and Amabile Choir, raising £1,200 for the emergency provision store and the band’s new junior brass academy. – SG
HARVEST
DUNSTABLE After collecting at Tesco for the Big Connection, corps folk participated in Harvest festivities organised by Songster Sue Leadbeater, before enjoying an excellent meal prepared by Corps Community Mission Secretary Jim Dawson. Seventy people attended, many of whom were new to the Army, raising £320 for the Big Connection. During Sunday worship, corps folk brought tinned goods in preparation for Christmas hampers. – RC
Cwm Corps celebrates Harvest with puzzles and toiletries donated to four local nursing homes
HARVEST
HARVEST
HARVEST
WELLING This year’s Great Welling Bake Off was themed Pies. Pies were brought to Harvest and after worship was a pie lunch. The joy of this tradition is that anyone can join in, with members ranging from 4 to 89 creating a pie to eat. This Harvest was particularly special as worship was attended by eight children. Pictured are the pie-entrants with their certificates. – KS
WALES 150
ABERYSTWYTH Using divisional materials produced to commemorate the work of The Salvation Army in Wales, Corps Sergeant-Major Mark Mainwaring invited the corps family to reflect on the depth and diversity of the ministry and mission of the Army over the past 150 years. Mark’s message was an encouragement to continue to ‘let your light shine’. Mark, along with Major Ray Hobbins, also accepted a recent invitation to speak at the Aberystwyth Civic Society, sharing the history and ongoing work of The Salvation Army in Aberystwyth and beyond. Also pictured is Herald Irene Wrigley. – PS
HOMELESSNESS
Orchard Lifehouse team wins Partnership Trophy
MANCHESTER
THE Orchard Lifehouse team from Bradford won the 2024 Partnership Trophy.
The competitive five-a-side tournament is run by The Salvation Army and its subsidiary, Salvation Army Homes, bringing together football teams from Lifehouses, supported housing, outreach programmes and drop-in services from around the UK. It helps raise awareness of homelessness, boost morale and improve positive wellbeing and mental health. It’s one of many ways the Army promotes positive and independent living for its service users and reinforces that helping people to move on from homelessness is more than just providing a roof over someone’s head.
Manchester City captain and England star Kyle Walker joined Celtic and Wales legend John Hartson to cheer on the 13th annual contest, which brought together 30 teams.
CHILDREN AND YOUTH
WINTON It was exciting to see six children – who have all become junior soldiers this year – form the new young people’s band and play out for the first time. Under the leadership of Peter Mannouch, the YP band was supported by the senior band and Bandmaster Lyndon Bexon. Brass players in the corps have been supporting Peter in teaching the children over the past year. The children were so encouraged by the clapping and encouraging remarks. – JH
John presented the trophy to the winning side and spoke to players about his career and own struggles battling cancer and a gambling addiction.
He said: ‘I thoroughly enjoyed today. The camaraderie is great. There’s a lot of respect for each other.’ – AR
HARVEST
LURGAN The corps celebrated Harvest with the Ireland Divisional Youth Band. The service was led by Captain Ben Ellis (Ireland DHQ), whose message was based on Luke 8:4–15. Band items included ‘Harvest Celebration’. The songsters sang ‘He’s Always Been Faithful to Me’. Band members Connor and Rebekah presented items, and Ava and Torie read from Psalm 121 and Psalm 67. There was also a sizeable collection for the food bank. The day was completed by lunch. A good spirit through the day was experienced. – CB
DROITWICH
TOMMY was enrolled as a junior soldier by his grandparents, Majors Gary and Rosemary Chatburn (Cannock and Hednesford), who led the meeting. Family and friends were present as Tommy read the Junior Soldier’s Promise and corps folk promised to pray for Tommy and all the young people in our church. We are so blessed to have such an enthusiastic and talented group of youngsters and pray that God will continue to use them for his glory. Also pictured are corps officer Major Sandra Collins and flag bearer Richard Campbell. – MM
CHRIS Ruston was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Major Rob Davis. Chris has attended Worship on Wednesday and was invited to come to Sunday meetings. After attending for a while, she decided to take a further step and become an adherent. Also pictured are Adherents Secretary Thelma Beacham and Worship on Wednesday leader Helen Croot. – PJ
ADDLESTONE
HANNAH Bailey was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Major Graham Bailey. Hannah has been attending the Army since birth and decided to make this public declaration of her wish to be recognised as part of the corps. She is pictured with flag bearer Teddie and Noelia Cuceres, who has arrived from Paraguay to share in ministry for the next year. – GB
SELBY
JAMAL and his sons, Arian and Arvin, were welcomed as adherents by corps officers Majors Jeremy and Wendy Ferguson-Smith. The family have attended the corps in recent months as they transition from their home in Iran to life in the UK. At the start of this new season, it was a huge privilege to welcome them. They are a blessing for our church. Google Translate allows us to share and do life together. – JF-S
LYDIA Le Lacheur was enrolled as a soldier and Emily Renouf and Connor Gallagher were welcomed as adherents by corps officer Major Andrew Diaper-Clausen. Lydia, Emily and Connor grew up in the corps. In addition to supporting the music of the corps, Lydia prays for the meeting leaders before the Sunday meeting and Emily and Connor work with the young people. Thanks go to Recruiting Sergeant Collette Gaudion for guiding them in making these next steps in faith. – AD-C
GUERNSEY
MAJOR JOHN TURNER
JOHN was born in Newark on 14 February 1940. His parents were the landlords of the Black Swan pub in Bassingham, Lincolnshire. He first encountered The Salvation Army when taken to Newark Corps by his cousin to hear Scarborough Singing Company. He loved it so much that he continued to attend, and very quickly found the Lord and became a soldier.
In August 1958, at the age of 18, despite his poor eyesight, John was accepted into the Pioneers session of cadets at the International Training College. Nine months later he was commissioned as a lieutenant and appointed to Denaby Main.
In 1962 John married Lieutenant Nina Clarke and for 42 years together they served as corps officers across the length and breadth of the territory, including eight years each at Wrexham and Hove. John was a quiet man with a strong personality, a big heart for others and a real passion for the gospel. Nothing gave him more pleasure than to help people on their faith journeys, and to support folk through life’s difficult circumstances.
In retirement at Southend Citadel, he served as recruiting sergeant for 15 years, retiring just a few weeks before his promotion to Glory. For four years he was also responsible for Hatfield Peverel Corps. John became an enthusiastic songster. His active service continued despite recurrent poor health, until in the last few months when he battled prostate cancer. However, he remained committed and positive in his faith until the very end.
John was always grateful for the variety of ministry opportunities he found in The Salvation Army, and his life significantly influenced many people. He will certainly be missed, particularly by his wife, Nina, his children, Steven, Simon and Louise, and their partners, his grandchildren and his great-granddaughter. – NT
BRIAN BAGWORTH RIPLEY
BRIAN was born in Ripley in 1940 to Salvationist parents and was dedicated at the age of 12 weeks. He attended Sunday school at Ripley and became a junior soldier aged 10.
Brian became a senior soldier at the age of 15 and, a year later, he was appointed as a company guard. In 1962, at the age of 22, Brian was commissioned as young people’s sergeant-major – a responsibility he would discharge with faith and diligence for the next 42 years, retiring in 2004. With his humility and faith, Brian touched the lives of the many young people entrusted to his ministry, along with their families.
On 10 September 2005, Brian married Sandra Leavesley from Blackpool and they returned to Ripley, serving the Lord together until Brian’s promotion to Glory on 18 July, aged 84.
Well done, good and faithful servant.
DENNIS HILL RUSHDEN
DENNIS Hill had been a follower of Jesus for at least 90 of his 98 years. He became a junior soldier and played in the young people’s band. Upon joining the senior band, he continued to help with the learners, influencing many young people with his quiet patience and expertise.
When called up to serve in the Second World War, he was seconded to the coal mines in Mansfield, where he linked up with Mansfield Corps. It was there he met his wife-to-be, Carol. After their marriage they had two sons, Colin and Keith, and later on three grandchildren.
His work involved painting and decorating, and after retirement he discovered a love of painting pictures in the Salvation Army art group. Dennis continued expressing his Christian faith during his final years in a care home after a fall. – DO
IRENE GETTY BELFAST CITADEL
RAISED in the Presbyterian Church, Irene married Edwin Getty and became a soldier at Belfast Oldpark Corps. She served as a songster, home league secretary and, on occasion, as pianist when required.
The Getty family moved to Belfast Citadel, where Irene continued to serve as a songster.
In recent years, as her health failed, she became very frail but remained committed to God and to her family.
Irene will always be missed and loved by her children, Elaine, David and Diane.
Servant of God, well done. – DA
Please note members’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included.
BRIAN NICHOLS HADLEIGH TEMPLE
BORN in 1953 in Islington, Brian moved to Shoeburyness aged 11 where he first attended
The Salvation Army and accepted the Lord. He served as a bandsman, songster and pub-boomer. He was also deputy bandmaster and corps press officer.
In 1987 Brian, with his wife, Katrina, and children, Richard and Kate, transferred to Hadleigh Temple, where he continued to serve in the sections and as CPO.
Brian embraced technology and used it effectively for the Lord. He worked diligently as CPO, developing relationships with local media. He produced the corps magazine and built the corps website, using these to extend God’s Kingdom. Brian also enjoyed presenting on BBC Essex and hospital radio.
As his health deteriorated, Brian had to give up work, but he enjoyed assisting with outreach at the Army tearooms. Brian then became housebound, but his love and trust in the Lord remained strong. – KN
Appointed
Effective 10 October
MAJOR LISA HANOVER , additional appointment, Divisional Safeguarding Officer, North Scotland
MAJOR JEAN
LOXLEY, additional appointment, Counsellor, Personnel Service (0.5 days a week)
MAJOR TRACEY PALMER , additional appointment, Leader Development Project Officer (1 day a week)
Effective 2 January 2025
COLONEL
MELVIN FINCHAM, Chaplain, THQ (2 days a week)
MAJOR ERIC
HEERLIEN, Divisional Support Officer (pro tem), Yorkshire and Humber
LIEUT-COLONELS
RODOLFO AND SALLY SALCEDO, Chatham
Promoted to Glory
JOYCE MOORE, Shoeburyness
Bereaved
MAJOR JOHN AND CAPTAIN SHEILA
HARRIS of their son Matthew Harris, Major Michael Harris, Petersfield, and Martin Harris, Portsmouth Citadel, of their brother
ENGAGEMENTS
General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries
Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham
Sun 27 Oct – Fri 1 Nov Nairobi (Africa Zone Strategy Conference)
Sun 3 Nov Sunbury Court (ICO Spiritual Day)
Thu 7 Nov Sunbury Court (ICO Lecture)
Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main Sat 26 Oct Regent Hall (Celebration of Major Joy Webb’s life and ministry) Mon 28 Oct – Sat 2 Nov South America West Territory (Officers’ Councils)
Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest Sat 26 Oct Regent Hall (Celebration of Major Joy Webb’s life and ministry)
NOTICES
Everlasting Light
Resources for Advent and Christmas using this year’s theme of Everlasting Light are now available at salvationist.org.uk/resources. They include teaching starters and PowerPoint templates, as well as logos, graphics and colour schemes to help people prepare for, celebrate and share the Everlasting Light of Jesus in a world of darkness.
Wales 150: 150 Days of Prayer
The Salvation Army began working in Wales on 15 November 1874. To mark this 150th year, join in 150 days of prayer leading up to the anniversary in November. Each day also features a story of faith and service. Follow along with each day’s prayer focus at salvationist.org.uk/wales150
In memory: Online wall of remembrance
The Salvation Army has introduced an online wall of remembrance that allows people to share memories and photos of loved ones when they don’t always know what to say. This virtual wall is free to use and a donation to the Army is optional. Access the page at thesalvationarmy.dedicationpage.org
Poetry Corner
Poetry Corner will return for Remembrance Sunday (10 November). If you have a Remembrance-inspired poem you would like to share, email it to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk for consideration by 29 October.
SOUNDS
Sunday Worship
Join Salvationists across the territory in worship, with music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. This week’s message is from Justice and Reconciliation Officer Captain John Clifton. Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
No Age Limit
Salvationist Radio’s show reminds listeners that there is no age limit to what we can do for God or what God can do for us. Join Andy and Ali from Older People’s Ministries for an hour of music, chat and testimony. This month features guest Assistant Secretary for Mission Mitch Menagh (THQ). Listen live on Sunday 27 October at 5pm. The episode is repeated on Friday 1 November at 11am.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
This Is My Story, This Is My Song
A podcast of conversations from Salvationist Radio’s No Age Limit. Join Andy and Ali as they invite a special guest to share their story and song.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts
PETERHEAD CORPS
CELEBRATION AND RECOGNITION OF BANDMASTER ALEX SULLIVAN (6O YEARS)
Saturday 16 November, 6.30pm
Messages by email to peterhead@salvationarmy.org.uk or by mail to Peterhead Corps, 47 Windmill Street, Peterhead AB42 1UL
CITADEL SALVATION ARMY PRESENTS
‘CELEBRATE!’
150TH CORPS ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS
Guest soloists
Caitlin Hedley (vocal) Daniel Robson (cornet)
Open invitation to all past musicians to unite with corps sections for the occasion
Saturday 23 November, 6.30pm Venue: Stockton Baptist Church TS18 1TE
Enquiry email: stocktonsa150@gmail.com Tickets from eventbrite.co.uk
