SALVATIONIST
No.1784 Price 70p
For everyone linked to The Salvation Army www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 28 November 2020
Floating support The work of a waterways chaplain PLUS
SHIELD BOOKS WINTER CATALOGUE
PAGES 13 TO 16
QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA
HOW ARE WE DOING ON FAITH? UK GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES ONLINE SURVEY The government has turned to the public to better understand how effectively it supports, understands and interacts with faith communities in England. The results of an online government survey, which... runs until 11 December, will inform a national review, led by the faith engagement adviser at the Ministry for Housing Communities and Local Government, Colin Bloom, into how best the government should engage with religious groups in the country. An introduction to the survey states... ‘This review began before the Covid-19 pandemic, but it is timely as the recommendations may well come to strengthen how government engages with faith groups during the Covid-19 recovery phase and beyond.’ Once their ethnicity, faith and beliefs, and backgrounds have been established, respondents are asked whether faith organisations or religious communities have supported their neighbourhood, and in what ways, before and during the pandemic... There are questions about faith leaders, the government’s faith literacy, religious education and safeguarding... The survey has been welcomed by the Bishop of London, the Right Rev Sarah Mullally, who urged as many people as possible to take part.’
SALVATION ARMY WARNS OF ‘DEBT TRAP’ IF GOVERNMENT FAILS TO AMEND NEW RESPITE SCHEME The Salvation Army has called on the government to include universal credit advance payments in its new debt respite scheme, warning that many could be trapped in a debt spiral if nothing is done to help them manage their repayments. The... scheme is being pitched by the government as a 60-day ‘breathing space’ during which action from creditors will be paused for people with problem debt. However, government loans – including advance payments for universal credit claimants – are not included in the scheme. The Salvation Army has said it is concerned because so many rely on these loans in order to make ends meet while their claim is processed and the repayments are automatically deducted later.
A Christian charity is warning of a winter of hardship for Britain’s fishing community. The Fishermen’s Mission said it had been a ‘very tough year’ for fishermen, with coronavirus impacting profits that would normally see them through the winter months. Ali Godfrey, the mission’s director of business development, said things were going to be hard for fishermen... and that many were facing the prospect of ‘heat or eat’ this winter. ‘Often fishermen will use the profits made from their catch through the spring and summer to tide them over the winter...’ she said. ‘That could not happen this year... We are aware that some fishermen are already getting into debt just to keep themselves and their families going.’
Premier
Christian Today
SOCIAL ACTION CAN CONTRIBUTE TO CHURCH GROWTH Social action can act as a pathway to growing congregations numerically and spiritually, says a new report from the Church Urban Fund and think tank Theos. The Growing Good report [was] three years in the making and focuses on the Church of England, drawing on 350 interviews across 60 parishes, as well as the latest statistical data. It observes that the Church of England’s social outreach has continued to increase despite declining attendance. The report suggests that the increase in social action by Church of England parishes reflects ‘an increase in the demand and expectation for it’. ‘This is the paradox facing the Church of England in 2020: the national church of a nation which is increasingly reliant on its social action and yet less and less spiritually connected to it,’ the report reads. While there is no ‘single, infallible way to grow a church’, the report suggests that social action is ‘one of the key ways’ churches can ‘build wider networks of relationships’ that ‘result in people initiating a faith journey and joining the church’.
Church Times
Christian Today
SALVATIONIST
ADVERTISING 020 7367 4883 advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk
salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist
Staff are working from home and may not be contactable by phone or able to deal with non-electronic correspondence
EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford – 020 7367 4891
DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 (option 1, option 1) subscriptions@satcol.org
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – 020 7367 4892 Melita Day-Lewis – 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey
TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN 020 7367 4500 0845 634 0101
ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden – 020 7367 4883
Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by Walstead Roche Ltd, St Austell. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland. The Salvation Army is a Christian church and a registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399. ISSN 2516-5909
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight – 020 7367 4895 Louise Phillips – 020 7367 4896 PROOFREADER Chris Horne
2
Salvationist 28 November 2020
FISHERMEN FACING HARDSHIP THIS WINTER, WARNS CHRISTIAN CHARITY
THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Mal Davies
CONTACT SALVATIONIST 020 7367 4890 salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk Find Salvationist on Facebook SalvationistOnline Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK
CONTENTS
LIVING THEOLOGY SOME of the TV adverts from years ago still stick in my mind. For example, the Nescafé Gold Blend series, which followed the growing romance between two neighbours sharing coffee times together, and the ads for Toblerone, the chocolate with ‘triangular almonds from triangular trees’. One of my favourites was the BT advert featuring Maureen Lipman congratulating her grandson on passing his exams. When he tells her he’s only passed pottery and sociology, she replies, ‘An ology...? You get an ology, you’re a scientist!’ I thought of that when I came across a statement attributed to the 13th-century scholar and priest Thomas Aquinas: ‘Theology is queen of the sciences.’ I like that description because it gives theology, the study of God, pride of place among all subjects. Unfortunately, that description can also make theology appear out of reach and irrelevant to us ordinary folk. That’s even more the case when you consider that Aquinas and his medieval colleagues were later criticised for debating how many angels could dance on the head of a pin. Not a good advert for theology. In his article on page 24 Ron Thomlinson admits to sometimes being puzzled by theological language and wonders ‘why complicated wording seems necessary to theologians’. The Rev James Macfarlane responds by saying they need to use it when exploring the profound truths of the faith, but that they should also translate it ‘into conversation that we can understand and take part in’. That’s also true of preachers, he suggests. On page 12, in the first of our Advent series in which different people reflect on a favourite carol, Major David Emery considers ‘O Little Town Of Bethlehem’. He says the imagery in the carol is ‘accompanied by piercingly profound sentences explaining incarnational theology’. Like all the best carols – and all the best hymns and songs – it communicates something of God in accessible and memorable language. It brings to the surface deep insights into the coming of Jesus and what that means for us. We can be enriched by great songs of faith – both ancient and modern – that tell the biblical story, move our hearts, stretch our minds and help us think about God. John and Charles Wesley understood that, and their combined efforts of preaching and hymn-writing helped form the faith of the Methodist Church. Salvationist songwriters have done the same for The Salvation Army. Theology can be preached and sung, but only really makes an impact when it is lived – when our understanding and experience of God are translated into daily living. You can see examples of that throughout this week’s Salvationist – in the news pages, which show people reaching out to their communities, in the feature about Andrea Hopkins, a waterways chaplain, on pages 10 and 11, in the ‘Column from the college’ article by Cadets Heather and Jonathan Culshaw on page 21 and much more. Lived theology is something the Army has always emphasised. It’s what we mean by holiness, by being Christlike, by sacramental living. With that kind of ology we may not be scientists, but we are certainly Salvationists – revealing the truth about God as we make a difference in people’s lives. My life must be Christ’s broken bread, My love his outpoured wine, A cup o’erfilled, a table spread Beneath his name and sign. That other souls, refreshed and fed, May share his life through mine. (SASB 610)
From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts
Quotes from the media
2
Message from the Territorial Leader for Leader Development 4 News
5 to 8
Prayer matters
7
Interview A turning trend
9
Ben Gilbert talks to Captain Ben Cotterill
Feature Keeping others afloat
10 and 11
by Shanelle Manderson
Advent reflection 12 The hopes and fears of all the years by Major David Emery
Shield Books catalogue
13 to 16
Lockdown diary Week 2
17
by Major Karen Sandford
Bible study 18 and 19 How can I be sure of this? by Major Mal Davies
Through the week with Salvationist 18 and 19 by Lieut-Colonel Ray Oakley
Reflection The challenge of staying sane
20
by Major Inga Longmore
Column from the college 21 A time of blessing and opportunity by Cadets Heather and Jonathan Culshaw
Retired officers Christmas greetings
22 and 23
Viewpoint The Trinity for dummies
24
by Ron Thomlinson with the Rev James Macfarlane
Feature Read all about it!
25
by Captain Sarah Johnson
Announcements
26
Adverts
27
The Salvation Army and me
28
featuring Chloe Evans
SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated
Salvationist 28 November 2020
3
A MESSAGE FROM THE TERRITORIAL LEADER FOR LEADER DEVELOPMENT
The Father’s embrace natural parts of a loving Christian community. Jesus often used physical touch when healing people and it plays an important part in one of his most beautiful stories: the story of the prodigal son. The son takes his inheritance, leaves home, spends the lot ‘The Return of the Prodigal Son’ by Rembrandt and then finds himself in the gutter. Eventually he comes home NE of the stories coming out of where the father is waiting with his these days of pandemic is that arms outstretched: ‘But while he was of separation. Our various still a long way off, his father saw him governments apply different restrictions and was filled with compassion for him; for us. In England, the prime minister he ran to his son, threw his arms round frequently says that we need to him and kissed him’ (Luke 15:20). What remember ‘hands, face, space’. It’s the a wonderful sense of a loving embrace, space part that we’ve had to get used to that hug of the father. – keeping our distance from people. If The good news is that all of us can you see somebody coming down the receive that loving embrace from the street, you try and make sure there’s a Father. Sometimes we might feel that two-metre distance. It’s become part of we are a distance from him, but he is our daily living. always looking out for us. We are all having to learn to keep our Paul writes in Romans 8:35–39: ‘Who distance for very important reasons, but shall separate us from the love of this separation has become challenging Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or for many of us. If you are not able to persecution or famine or nakedness or go to work you may be missing your danger or sword? As it is written: “For colleagues and the little bit of banter or your sake we face death all day long; we the sharing of conversation over a cup are considered as sheep to be of coffee. There’s the separation from slaughtered.” No, in all these things we family members who you can’t meet are more than conquerors through him with and hug as you’d like to. There’s who loved us. For I am convinced that the separation for those who live in care neither death nor life, neither angels nor homes, whose family and friends have demons, neither the present nor the been dealing with not being able to visit future, nor any powers, neither height for many months. nor depth, nor anything else in all The experience of separation has also creation, will be able to separate us from brought challenges for people who live the love of God that is in Christ Jesus alone – just the lack of human touch on our Lord.’ occasions. Then there are the corps that Nothing can separate us from the have not been able to meet for worship. love of God. We receive that invitation The human touch, the arms of embrace, to come into a loving embrace, even in are part of a loving fellowship. That these days of pandemic, to come into a sense of belonging is something we close relationship with the Father. perhaps miss, along with the occasional Song 772 in our songbook reminds hand of reassurance and compassion, us of God’s presence and loving the tap of encouragement on the back welcome throughout the day. Verse or the hand or arm round the shoulder three says: when a prayer is needed. These are all
O
4
Salvationist 28 November 2020
Lord of all kindliness, Lord of all grace, Your hands swift to welcome, your arms to embrace, Be there at our homing, and give as, we pray, Your love in our hearts, Lord, at the eve of the day. There’s a wonderful invitation to us all to receive that embrace of the Father, to put down some of the things that might have separated us from him – some of the fears we might sense, some of the anxieties we might feel, or our tendency to try and deal with life on our own. Here’s an opportunity to come close to the Father – for nothing, not even Covid-19, can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus. May he continue to bless you. Hold me close, Let your love surround me. Bring me near, draw me to your side. And as I wait, I’ll rise up like the eagle, And I will soar with you, Your Spirit leads me on in the power of your love. (SASB 601)
GILL COTTERILL COMMISSIONER TERRITORIAL LEADER FOR LEADER DEVELOPMENT O This
message is based on a video that can be viewed at facebook.com/ SalvationistOnline or youtube.com/ salvationarmyvideo
NEWS
Editor’s note: Some of these events took place before the current restrictions relating to the coronavirus pandemic
COMMUNITY
Rough sleeping figures hide future crisis
ARMY NEWS
UK
Survivor’s story wins Amnesty award UK AN interview with a survivor of slavery who was supported by The Salvation Army won an Amnesty Media award for BBC Radio 5 Live’s Nihal Arthanayake Show. Modern Day Slavery – Sanu was given the 2020 Radio and Podcast prize at the awards run by Amnesty International UK. It featured the story of Sanu – not his real name – who came to the UK from Bangladesh to study but was tricked and trapped into working in slavelike conditions, seven days a week for seven years. Recorded when Nihal visited a Salvation Army safe house, where Sanu now lives, the interview was first broadcast in November 2019 and provoked an overwhelming response from the show’s listeners. He described how he was befriended by a man who started to threaten and control him, forcing him to work in his shop for little or no money. ‘He controlled me like in a video game,’ Sanu said. Sanu was helped to escape by a concerned and observant customer and is recovering in a Salvation Army safe house, where he receives counselling and other support. After the interview Sanu found the courage to continue raising awareness of modern slavery in the hope of protecting others in the future. He also volunteers at his local mosque and with The Salvation Army. Sanu thanked The Salvation Army and the BBC for helping his voice to be heard. – AR O Listen to the award-winning interview at bbc.co.uk/programmes/ p07tz06d
ARMY NEWS
SALISBURY The corps reimagined Employment Plus to create a Covid-safe setting to help people receive the support they need on their journey to employment. Throughout the pandemic Employment Plus Co-ordinator Cara Upham has kept in contact with clients through Zoom meetings and phone calls. With the reimagined system, she was able to work with participants in a defined area of the hall. The pandemic has led to a significant increase in enquiries. – MD
CORPS HINCKLEY Rather than presenting gifts at Harvest, corps and day centre members received a basket of fruit delivered to their homes. The contents were donated by local firms and a farmer. The 130 recipients were delighted to know they had been thought of in this way and were pleased to share in the joy of giving and receiving. Corps officer Major Carol Evans continued the theme in her Sunday morning video message, which was shared via WhatsApp. She also thanked people for the way they have supported each other during difficult days. – BA
COMMUNITY HISTON The corps opened a pop-up pantry to help people in need. Running on a pay-what-you-can basis, anyone could access the pantry to take what they needed, not just people who would normally receive free school meals. Throughout the lockdown the corps has also supported families with food parcels, receiving many donations from the community. – AR
THE Salvation Army has warned that figures showing a drop in people sleeping rough do not suggest a homelessness crisis has been averted. The Combined Homelessness and Information Network (Chain) figures show that 3,444 rough sleepers were recorded by outreach teams in Greater London between July and September 2020. This is a 14 per cent drop on the same quarter last year, with more than half being new rough sleepers. Director of Homelessness Services Lorrita Johnson stated: ‘This shortterm gain could still lead to a longterm crisis unless the government acts now. November’s one-year spending review is the government’s opportunity to ensure it does not reverse the gains made by the Everyone In initiative, which protected rough sleepers from the coronavirus pandemic. ‘Getting everyone in is only part of the solution. People need support to overcome the reasons they ended up rough sleeping in the first place. Without sustained support, our experience tells us that these vulnerable people may end up back on the streets. ‘This crisis also covers people forced to live in council-funded emergency accommodation. The economic fallout of the pandemic will lead to fewer jobs and greater personal debt, which will increase levels of homelessness, leading to more families sharing cramped temporary accommodation… The government must act bravely and invest now to prevent a bleak future for thousands of people.’ The Salvation Army’s recent FutureProof The Roof report set out a blueprint for a new approach to investment in combating homelessness and rough sleeping, which would allow the government to maintain recent progress and provide added protection against the wider economic downturn caused by the pandemic. – AR O Read the Future-Proof The Roof report at salvationarmy.org.uk/ futureproof Salvationist 28 November 2020
5
NEWS
REMEMBRANCE BRANKSOME Organised by The Royal British Legion, a silence, wreath-laying and reading of the names of the fallen took place under Covid-secure measures. About 100 people attended a short ceremony and Acting Bandmaster Colin Bright sounded the Last Post. – CB
Charity shop volunteer Claire Whittington outside Swindon Gorse Hill’s Remembrance window display, which she and manager Lee Cook designed
INVERNESS Bandsman Donnie Smith, who is also an employee at the corps, received a Veteran’s Badge from the Ministry of Defence during Remembrance week. Donnie served in the military for several years, and was delighted to receive the badge and be recognised for his service. He and corps officer Captain Helen Froud, who is also a military veteran, laid a wreath at the city’s war memorial. – AR Songster Jenny Whitten adds the finishing touches to the Remembrance display at Woking
Kilmarnock’s Sunday morning meetings include a time of remembrance followed by the laying of a poppy wreath at the town’s war memorial
Is your corps adapting to the coronavirus crisis through innovative ministry opportunities? Salvationist wants to hear from you. Send your news to salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk. Good quality pictures will be included.
Alongside an online Remembrance Sunday service, Ipswich Citadel share a window display to remind passers-by of those affected by war 6
Salvationist 28 November 2020
Prayer SCRIPTURE FOCUS – PSALM 121
by Major Gillian Miller (Prayer Network, THQ)
SATURDAY 28 NOVEMBER ‘The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and for evermore’ (v8). Father God, I know that I am always with you, whether in this life or the next. Your hand was on my life as I came into this world, and I pray you will continue to hold my hand for ever, especially on the day I journey to your heavenly Kingdom. Thank you for your promise that you have gone to prepare a place for me. Amen.
ADVENT ALPHABET FOCUS by Major Gethin Thomas (Pentre)
Adam Woodgate (Penge) sounds the Last Post outside his home
SUNDAY 29 NOVEMBER Lord, on this first Sunday in Advent, we prepare our hearts and minds to journey with others and with you. Help us to make this a day of reflection as we wait in anticipation for the way that you will reveal yourself during this time. Amen. MONDAY 30 NOVEMBER Advent is a time when we may use a lot of lists to get organised and take us through the busy time that leads to Christmas. Most of our lists in Advent are about doing, but this Advent list is about things to be, as a child of God. As you work your way through the 26 letters of the alphabet, for 26 days with 26 words in the coming days, pray that it will be a helpful way to focus on who we are and what we need to be this Advent season. TUESDAY 1 DECEMBER – AVAILABLE An angel begins the coming of Jesus to Earth. Gabriel comes to an unpromising village, to a girl with a very common name. Mary was as shocked as we sometimes are at God’s choice of her. Her words in Luke 1:38 clearly and loudly declare her availability to God’s plan and purpose: ‘I am the Lord’s servant… May your word to me be fulfilled.’ Lord, may these words be true of me this Advent time: here I am. Amen.
CIRENCESTER Songster Leader Helen Grace sounded the Last Post and Reveille for wreath-laying ceremonies in the villages of Barnsley, Ablington and Bibury. Although the ceremonies were different from previous years, with limited attendance, the residents appreciated the Rev Tim Hastie-Smith’s thought-provoking words. – MG
CORPS
BIRMINGHAM CITADEL Volunteers assembled and delivered Harvest suppers to 300 members to enjoy during a Harvest social on Zoom. Food and fellowship were shared for an hour. Corps folk played games, took part in remote line dancing and watched music items presented by Oliver and Oscar Hayward and Josie, Olivia and Molly Lamplough as well as poetry and a Word in Season from corps officer Captain Clare Allman. Items from the food bank were used to create a small Harvest display and a reduced capacity congregation joined together for worship. In the afternoon small ensembles of band members visited corps folk and played hymns. – RO
WEDNESDAY 2 DECEMBER – BELIEVING Mary’s believing response to Gabriel is sharply contrasted with the pedigreed priestly response of Zechariah, the father-to-be of John the Baptist. As an experienced priest he says: ‘How can I be sure of this?’ (v18). Because of his unbelief he was unable to speak for nine months. If we couldn’t talk every time we doubted God, there would be a lot of quiet people around! Think about God’s promise of Jesus. We can believe because Jesus is already here. THURSDAY 3 DECEMBER – COMPANIONED After Gabriel visited, ‘Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country… where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth’ (vv39 and 40). It was a long, lonely journey, but after the news she had heard Mary needed the refuge, comfort and wisdom her elderly cousins, especially Elizabeth, could provide. It was during this time that Mary sang her Magnificat (see vv46–55). Lord, thank you for the time spent with fellow believers and the awareness they give of what you have done for us, in us and through us. Amen. FRIDAY 4 DECEMBER – DREAMER Joseph the carpenter, one of the few to be called ‘righteous’ in the Bible, joins the ranks of the Bible dreamers (Matthew 1:20–25; 2:19 and 20). He didn’t need an angel appearance to change the course of his life, only a dream. Joseph’s prayer, righteous as he was, surely was, in the words of William Himes’s song, ‘Take all my dreams and bend them to your will’ (SASB 568). God answered Joseph’s prayers. Lord, may this be our heartfelt prayer too. Amen.
O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources
Salvationist 21 November 2020
7
NEWS
COMMUNITY
EMERGENCY AID
HASTINGS TEMPLE When discussing Harvest at school, it was suggested that pupils might donate a gift to a charity in recognition of Harvest time. Kobi, who attends the corps with his family, decided to give something to the Army. Kobi is pictured with corps officer Major Karen Smith. – KS CIRENCESTER Songster Pam Godsell, who works at Acorns Nursery School, arranged a Harvest collection of food to go towards Army food parcels. Corps leader Territorial Envoy Kim Whyard collected the food from the children. – MG
SUDBURY The Anglia Emergency Response Group spent three days supporting the police at a major inquiry. The group provided refreshments to police and the Lowland Search and Rescue team looking for a missing person. The police appreciated the Army’s ongoing support. Since its formation the group has responded to 422 call-outs. – MB
OUTREACH
CORPS SHOEBURYNESS As the corps could not meet for the traditional Harvest supper, everyone that usually attends received a Harvest supper in a bag. This included a tin of baked beans, a potato and a bar of chocolate. Corps members photographed their meals and shared them on the corps Facebook page. – CD/RD CIRENCESTER Although meetings continue to be held online, the hall was decorated for a Harvest Festival and opened with social distancing measures in place. Corps members and friends brought altar service envelopes and food offerings. A small number of people prayed as people passed through. – MG 8
Salvationist 28 November 2020
COMMUNITY IPSWICH CITADEL The corps has continued to support local food bank Families in Need and the Ipswich Outreach Soup Kitchen during the coronavirus pandemic. Unable to celebrate Harvest in the usual way, the congregation brought donations of food to the hall over a number of days. – DC
SCUNTHORPE The corps decided that, if the community could not go into the hall to see their Harvest display of thankfulness, then they would put it on show wherever they could. Using the charity shop window and hall foyer, items donated by corps members were displayed alongside posters, banners and a Lego model created by Jam ( Jesus and Me) club members. The team effort was a thank you to God for all the ways he looks after and inspires the corps with love to reach out to the community through the food bank. – LS
COMMUNITY
n Ben Cotte
ril
l
INTERVIEW
C
ap
tai
A turning trend International Projects Office Team Leader Ben Gilbert continues a series exploring the UKI Territory’s international development work by discussing food security with Captain Ben Cotterill
F
OR many people around the world, food security is a delicate balancing act. Over the past year Captain Ben Cotterill has been working with the international development team to help people support themselves through difficult days. He explains why these projects matter to The Salvation Army.
WHAT DOES FOOD SECURITY MEAN FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT? Food security, as defined by the United Nations, is where people have access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meets their preferences and their dietary needs. There are three categories of security: food secure, moderately food insecure or severely food insecure. Those of us who have access to enough quality and quantity of food are food secure. Moderately food insecure people have problems and uncertainties with obtaining food. The last category – severe food insecurity – might include people who haven’t eaten in days. They might be experiencing food poverty or even famine. WHERE IS THE TERRITORY SUPPORTING PROJECTS AT THE MOMENT? The wider Salvation Army is working across the world – even higher-income countries have to deal with food security. The UKI Territory is predominantly
involved across Africa. In the Democratic Republic of Congo we’re working through corps to partner communities and reintroduce edible insects. In Mali and Burkina Faso we’re supporting communities to make the best use of their land by increasing forest cover and improving the health of their soil. This better equips farmers to overcome malnutrition and lift themselves out of poverty. In Zimbabwe we’re investing in farmers and helping them produce plentiful crops. We’re developing a really exciting project in Angola. It will train farmers to grow high-quality avocados, which will improve their food security, nutrition and income. NEXT YEAR’S HELPING-HAND APPEAL – FEEDING HOPE – IS ALL ABOUT FOOD SECURITY. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT THAT WE INVEST OUR RESOURCES IN THIS? In recent years the number of people who are food insecure was declining, but that isn’t true anymore. A couple of years ago it started to rise. Now, more than 820 million people do not have enough food to eat. The coronavirus pandemic is exacerbating this situation. Covid-19 is causing economic downturn across many parts of the world, but it’s especially impacting the global south. We’re seeing a rise in unemployment and a decline in wages and incomes. It’s challenging people’s
access to food and essential services. While 2020 was supposed to be a worldwide year of progress on nutrition and food systems, the pandemic has challenged every facet of life. Our work has never been more important and we’ve got a huge task ahead of us. The pandemic has meant that, instead of developing projects that might have an impact in a year or two, lots of our colleagues have had to focus on helping people who have no food here and now. The virus is having a huge impact on food security across the world, which is why we’re highlighting food security in next year’s helping-hand appeal. The stats are going the wrong way. We have to redouble our efforts and think about how we can work long-term to deal with food insecurity. Next week… Violet Ruria talks about income generation. O Episodes of the Develop podcast are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Soundcloud and Google Podcasts O Find more information and resources at salvationarmy.org.uk/internationaldevelopment
*Captain Cotterill is now corps officer, Clapton with Stoke Newington and Dalston Plants Salvationist 28 November 2020
9
Keeping others afloat
Waterways Chaplain Andrea Hopkins (Hednesford) talks to Shanelle Manderson about her work
W
HEN imagining life aboard a boat some may envisage sailing into the sunset on a superyacht or cruising blissfully in a Rosie and Jim-style narrowboat. However, there are thousands of people living on the water across Britain’s network of canals, rivers and coastlines. As of 2018, an estimated 15,000 people in the UK are afloat full-time, and that number is increasing. Waterways chaplains are committed to serving these boaters, who are often isolated from mainstream resources and cut off from other pastoral support.
10
Salvationist 28 November 2020
Andrea Hopkins (below) has been a probationary chaplain for two years and was officially commissioned this year. Living near the Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal at Gailey with her husband, she is fully immersed in the community. As well as owning a share in a private boat, Andrea also volunteers on a community boat that takes disabled and older people’s groups on day trips. Her role as a chaplain involves walking a minimum of a mile of the tow path each week offering help, companionship and a listening ear to individuals.
‘We have a few liveaboards, but not many. We live directly opposite a boat yard, so it’s mainly holiday people,’ she explains. ‘They don’t really need help but we still try to support in any way we can. ‘There are a couple of locks near us. If you’re a single-handed boater, working a lock takes about three times as long as it would if you had some crew. I can sometimes help to open a gate. I just try to help where I can.’ The Salvation Army has a long history with waterways ministry. It started in the Fenny Stratford area in 1908, praying with and talking to bargemen and their families in their cabins. During the final years of commercial canal carrying, The Salvation Army continued to minister to the dwindling boating population. In November 1950, a narrowboat called Salvo was launched, fitted with accommodation and a meeting room for up to 14 people, complete with cinema equipment to show Christian films. Majors Fred and Ivy Fielding spent the next 14 years living on board. They constantly moved around the canal network giving lessons to the boat children and acting as social workers and health visitors, until they were appointed overseas. Life on a boat can present many unique challenges.
‘People think it is cheaper and that they can escape all their problems, but it isn’t and you take your problems with you wherever you go,’ says Andrea. ‘You always have to be thinking about three main things: water, electricity and toilets. You have to fill a boat up with water to be able to take a shower, electricity only works if you run the engine to charge the batteries, and there’s no plumbing so you have to empty the toilet.’ Very few permanent residential moorings for boats are available, and British Waterways guidelines do not allow continuous cruisers to stay in the same spot for more than 14 days. This naturally makes maintaining a postal address difficult. ‘Something as simple as not having an address means people can’t receive parcels and can cause communication issues with formal institutions and agencies such as banks, HMRC and the DVLA,’ says Andrea. ‘There are ways around it. You can have post sent to the post office and held there for six weeks. I also personally take in parcels for a number of boaters.’ Other support can include: helping with laundry; getting fuel; signposting those in difficulty to local services and food banks; acting as an advocate when a boater needs to unravel issues such as paying licences; claiming benefits; providing a hardship fund for fuel, food and emergency boat repairs; offering assistance in emergencies; providing support with bereavement; or simply having a coffee and a chat. During the coronavirus pandemic she has picked up food donated to Hednesford Corps and distributed parcels to people stuck on the canal because they couldn’t move. Waterways chaplains get together monthly in teams to encourage each other, pick up tips and ideas of how they can help the diverse communities along the country’s tow paths and share what they have learnt to help them be more effective. No two days of chaplaincy look the same for Andrea. She says what she enjoys most is the opportunity it gives her to meet new people: ‘I like talking to people, finding out about their stories and who they are. I think we all have to show God’s love however we can. I may not be able to evangelise the first time I meet somebody, but through
Major Fred Fielding
Major Ivy Fielding conversations and friendships, I might eventually get opportunities to share the news of God’s love. So I just try to be the best, friendliest person.’ ‘There are people who have lost touch with family as they’ve been continuously cruising for so long, and other sad situations where people are just on their
own on a boat and they don’t know who to turn to,’ she adds. ‘I hope that I can be supportive to those people and that God will show me the best way to do that.’ O If
you are interested in finding out about becoming a waterways chaplain visit waterwayschaplaincy.org.uk Salvationist 28 November 2020
11
ADVENT REFLECTION
Four people have chosen a carol to reflect on during Advent. Major David Emery begins the series with ‘O Little e Town Of Bethlehem m’
P
HILLIPS Brooks, a former butcher turned priest, set out on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 1865. On Christmas Eve he travelled the six miles from Jerusalem to sit in a field overlooking Bethlehem – then just a small village. Nightfall had arrived as he imagined the glory of the angelic choir bursting into praise while announcing that the Saviour of the world was born. Such was the impact of that night that some three years later he penned the verses of his famous carol ‘O Little Town Of Bethlehem’ (SASB 118), which was inspired by Micah 5:2: ‘But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.’ Another Bethlehem, not in the Holy Land but in Carmarthenshire, Wales, is also a popular destination for visitors in the run-up to Christmas. The purpose of these pilgrims is not to sit on the hillside and imagine the angelic choir’s announcement but to queue up outside the rural post office and get a Bethlehem postmark embossed on their Christmas card envelopes. The novelty postmark is their goal, and a clear, legible inking will suffice. Alas, the significance of the events at Jesus’ actual birth location can be as far from their minds as the two Bethlehems are apart in miles. Brooks’s words have been set to different melodies over the years, all of which remain popular among carol singers and listeners alike. The simple story of that first Christmas is retold in stanzas that draw people into the atmospheric moments that Brooks must have experienced on that dark Bethlehem hillside back in 1865. The picture is painted with an alarming imagery that makes his poetry stick in 12
Salvationist 28 November 2020
THE HOPES AND FEARS OF ALL THE YEARS
the memory, all the time accompanied by piercingly profound sentences explaining incarnational theology. One wonders how many carol singers last Christmas could have imagined what 2020 would be like. Today we may wonder whether the restrictions that might be in place during the Advent weeks will impact on the number of postmarks obtained from Bethlehem in Carmarthenshire. More importantly, we might ask: Will the words of this well-known and widely sung carol echo through people’s lives this Christmas, not just as poetry but as divine truth? There are other questions you and I must ask ourselves on the inevitable journey towards our Bethlehem experience this year. Will you travel as a true pilgrim? If so, what is it that you wish or need to obtain from your visit? Will your Christmas be a journey to a place that does not hold the genuine experience, with a ‘postmark’ to compensate you? Will you receive from God ‘the blessings of his Heaven’ that he ‘imparts to human hearts’ by encountering the Christ child in such a way that impacts all your hopes and fears? Brooks confidently assures both articulator and audience that whatever one’s plea is, it can be resolved by an encounter with ‘the dear Christ’ – provided it is enacted in a spirit of meekness, thus enabling an infusion of the Divine into everyday life. Amazingly,
such an encounter transcends time by the promise that there will be resolutions to the ‘hopes and fears of all the years’. In other words the aspirations and concerns of one’s whole life are answered by the holy birth, for the Christ who is born of Mary is the Saviour, Jesus, who is ‘the same yesterday and today and for ever’ (Hebrews 13:8). Jaw-dropping eternal truths of ‘Ebenezer’ (see 1 Samuel 7:12) and ‘Immanuel’ (see Matthew 1:23) filter through the carol, bringing us as pilgrims to a point of decision. Will we pray the benedictory prayer of the last verse personally and collectively? The challenge of this prayer demands we decide. Will we be a Bethlehem visitor? Or will we be a pilgrim, stepping out into the unknown, confident that our lives are going someplace – forward from Bethlehem into the real challenges of this Christmas and beyond? O holy Child of Bethlehem Descend to us, we pray; Cast out our sin, and enter in, Be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels The great glad tidings tell; O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Immanuel.
MAJOR EMERY IS CHAPLAIN TO THE WELSH ASSEMBLY
ee
Winter 2020 Catalogue The newest and bestselling releases from the official publisher of The Salvation Army in the UK Territory with the Republic of Ireland
Titles to inspire and engage In Darkest England: 130 Years On £8 / £7 (Kindle)
General William Booth, co-founder of The Salvation Army along with his wife Catherine, was a prolific writer. Apart from penning letters and contributing regularly to the War Cry and other Christian periodicals, he also wrote books. His most famous, published in October 1890, was In Darkest England And The Way Out. It included wide-ranging and detailed proposals for the reformation of social and welfare services. The book became an immediate bestseller and was to have a long-lasting impact on the work of The Salvation Army around the world. In Darkest England: 130 Years On is a celebration of Booth’s best-known work, and within these covers you will find a range of reflections on responses to the original In Darkest England, including essays, poems, testimonies and reports on the Army’s current social work. This is a tribute to a book whose message, ideology and mission are still visible in The Salvation Army today.
NEW
All books are available from SP&S by visiting sps-shop.com or calling 01933 445445. Phone lines are open Monday to Friday 8 am to 5 pm. Kindle editions are available from amazon.co.uk.
NEW
Browsing The Bible Nigel Bovey £8 / £7 (Kindle)
‘To many people, the Bible is a complete and utter mystery. It’s like e an iceberg. It’s a thing of beauty, but actually content wise, a lot off people know little about what it has inside.’ David and Goliath, Moses and the Red Sea, the Gospels... while y we may know a handful of the Bible’s most famous stories, many of its books remain unexplored. In Browsing The Bible Major Nigell Bovey gives chapter and verse on the Scriptures with a concise overview of all 66 books. Each entry offers supportive context, highlights significant themes and ends with a crafted prayer. It can be used as a helpful ul springboard for individual study, online groups, a signpost for sermons or even a brief introduction to the Bible for new Christians ristians who aren’t sure where to begin.
On The Altar O
J Jonathan Roberts £4.99 / £3.99 (Kindle) £ S Salvationist Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts investigates the iimportance of sacrifice, exploring how the New Testament uses the words ‘sacrifice’ and ‘offering’ to describe familiar aspects of w Christian life – praying, praising, serving, doing good, giving and C w witnessing. On The Altar invites us to consider how these can be part of our rresponse to the sacrifice of Jesus and the call to be a ‘living ssacrifice’ (Romans 12:1). Ideal for new Christians exploring the life of faith and service, tthe book will also refresh those more experienced in the faith, helping them discover that in sacrifice we find freedom and h ffulfilment.
Second Helpings Peter Mylechreest £5.99
Reluctant goalkeepers, urban myths, cuckoos, ice-cream wars, bank robbers, harps and even Blackpool Tower are in the wide range of subjects covered in Second Helpings. In his down-to-earth, accessible style Major Peter Mylechreest st highlights how everyday events, people, places, the natural world, television, films and literature all provide illustrations forr many aspects of the Christian life including grace, forgiveness, faith and transformation. Not intended as a deeply devotional work nor a theological treatise, but a book to dip into for intriguing insights, anecdotes es and food for thought. Here, in 100 bite-size portions, is spiritual al food to encourage, enlighten and challenge.
Shield Books Winter 2020 Catalogue
Flourishing In The Wilderness Alice Swain £4.99 / £3.99 (Kindle)
In her debut title, Territorial Envoy Alice Swain examines how Scripture pictures the wilderness not only as a physical environment, but also as a metaphor for our spiritual and emotional health, where biblical writers use the rich imagery of wilderness giving way to flourishing and fertile land. Written out of her own experience of infertility, Flourishing In The Wilderness seeks to help the reader identify their own wilderness – be it childlessness, illness, singleness or unemployment, to name a few – and see how God can cause a barren wilderness to become a flourishing place. It shows how God is with us, teaching us through trials and tribulations. Written with sharing in mind, each chapter closes with discussion questions and a hymn.
COMING SOON...
Big Questions For Small Groups Various £4 / £3 (Kindle)
A new series designed for small-group discussion or individual reflection. In n each book a different author will focus on a topic and include five questionss and answers, followed by questions for the reader to consider.
Prayer Lyndall Bywater What’s the point in praying? Is there a wrong way to pray? With grace and humour, Lyndall tackles some of the big questions surrounding prayer.
The Bible Ian Barr Do we really need the Old Testament? Why are there four accounts of Jesus’ s’ he life? Lieut-Colonel Ian Barr offers the opportunity to think again on what the Bible means and why it is so important.
COMING SOON...
That Contentious Spirituality Th Me Melvyn Jones Re Release date: 2021
Ma Major Melvyn Jones’s second book is a study of Salvationist spirituality. Why discuss a specifically Salvationist spirituality; isn’t it simply Wh Christianity? Ch Melvyn explains that while we are called to unity in the Body of Christ, M it is not a one-size-fits-all unity. Rather, it is unity in diversity. Recognising and celebrating our differences is God-honouring and Rec throughout these pages the author outlines what is unique and thr distinctive about Salvationist spirituality. dis Split into four parts, the book explores the history of The Salvation S Army, as well as the theology and spiritual teachings of the Founders. Arm Later chapters look at contemporary spiritual movements within the Lat Army and the importance of imagination for our future. Arm
Shield Books Winter 2020 Catalogue
Blood On The Flag ag
Meeting Jesuss
In Blood On The Flag Majorr Nigel Bovey details the my’s history of the Skeleton Army’s opposition to William Booth’s oth’s fledgling Salvation Army. With insights and coverage age from first-hand reporters,, the author traces the story ass told by the Victorian press. s.
Meeting Jesus is about Major Howard Webber’s r’s ary encounters with ordinary people, which are made de extraordinary by the transforming power off the gospel. The book is about out ppens the reality of what happens when people meet Jesus. us.
Nigel Bovey £7.99 / £5.99 (Kindle) e)
Howard Webber dle) £2.99 / £5.59 (Kindle)
Growing Gracefully
A Prodigal Mum
Written as a response to the mindset that older people are past their ‘best before’ date, Major Catherine Wyles explains that they have a lot to contribute if they allow God to use them in new, exciting ways. Each chapter contains a Bible study, through which it is clear that no one is ‘past it’ as far as God is concerned.
Major Catherine Wyles shares her experience of a child leaving the faith and examines her personal response. A challenging read that raises deep-seated questions but also offers real comfort to those with concerns for loved ones.
Catherine Wyles £4.99 / £4 (Kindle)
Catherine Wyles £3.99
The Joystrings Sylvia Dalziel £4.99
Written in 2013 for the 50th anniversary ry of the founding of the Joystrings, member Lieut-Colonel eut-Colonel Sylvia Dalziel lifts the lid on their five frantic rantic years. Read about the highs and the lows, the e struggles and successes and above all the steady y insistence that it was all the inspiration of the Holy oly Spirit. The book includes an introduction by y General John Larsson (Retired), a full discography phy and a challenging chapter from the Joystrings’ gs’ inspirational leader Major Joy Webb.
Are you a writer with a story to tell or an idea to share? If you have an idea for a book, we would love to hear it! For a proposal form, contact Shield Books Editor Rebecca Goldsmith at rebecca.goldsmith@salvationarmy.org.uk
Shield Books Winter 2020 Catalogue
LOCKDOWN DIARY I The Sequel
Week 2 Major Karen Sandford (Harlow) continues her day-by-day account of life in lockdown
DAY 8 Thursday 12 November
DAY 10 Saturday 14 November
I’ve been thinking today about gratitude. I’ve never worked in an industry that gets tips. Can you imagine preaching a sermon and getting a tip at the end of it? Or not, as the case may be? I forget to say thank you sometimes, but knowing how much a word of appreciation affects me, I should make more of an effort. So today’s thoughts are: 1. People can be ungrateful, but I don’t do things for the praise. I do them to make a difference – most of the time. 2. Who do I need to show appreciation for? A text, email or phone call can make such a difference. 3. On the odd occasion when I get a message of thanks, I’m going to take a photo of it. Then on days I feel unappreciated I can remember again that I am valued and loved.
At the moment, being idle isn’t that helpful, but I do need some rest. It’s about getting the balance right. Maybe I need to get the knitting out? Or the colouring? Or the Christmas cards that need writing? Lockdown is hard on days like today. But we’re thrilled to receive the news that a baby has been born.
new places to swim. We chatted about the water and later she posted a photo of me on an online group. One of my swimming buddies commented on the picture. It made my day. Heather Small asked: ‘What have you done today to make you feel proud?’ Big or small, it doesn’t matter. After all, if the Bible says we are precious and honoured in the sight of God, who are we to argue?
DAY 11 Sunday 15 November
DAY 13 Tuesday 17 November
We’ve lost a lot this year, but what an opportunity for connection it has brought. The main focus of worship for our corps during lockdown has been a worship sheet, but in recent weeks I’ve sensed the need to present something live. Not a meeting, more a point of connection when we can spend a few moments in the presence of God. The response has blown me away. Mainly because people are getting in touch who, for various reasons, were unable to attend pre-Covid. These are colleagues, friends, people who have crossed our path over the years and members of our own corps. There seems to be a connection with people that wasn’t possible or even considered before. As we walked Daisy in the small window of blue sky and sunshine between the showers, Chris and I talked about the need to stay focused on what we’re doing and who we’re doing it for. We believe God is giving us something to say. He’s certainly inspiring Chris! It’s a learning curve for us, but it’s always exciting to learn something new.
Testosterone Towers has been a hive of activity today, with Advent preparation, worship sheets, emails, texts and calls. This was punctuated by cries of ‘We’ve had another one!’ when donations were made to the corps JustGiving page that’s been set up for our Christmas work. I like mornings like this when I feel I’m accomplishing something. It’s a joy to cross things off my to-do list. My prayer this morning came from Twitter: ‘Lord of the morning, sustaining all creation, visible and invisible, awaken me to your presence.’ He did.
DAY 9 Friday 13 November I was talking to an officer at a nearby corps and sharing Advent resources. We were commenting on how our energy levels fluctuate at the moment. I seem to be full of energy and creativity or a big lump of nothingness. I think it’s to do with the ever-present restlessness and anxiety that the coronavirus pandemic creates. Later I was at the river, entering the world of the ‘dusk-dippers’ as the light was fading. What a wonderful end to the week. Softly the shadows fall o’er land and sea, Voices of evening call, speaking to me, Busy my hands this day, Small time to think or pray; Now at the close of day I come to thee. Lord, ’tis thy tender touch now we implore; Day with its toil is done, labour is o’er; Now in the evening while shadows fall, Grant us thy peace, who give to thee our all. (SASB 677)
DAY 12 Monday 16 November While I was swimming I met someone new. She’s from another area and was exploring
DAY 14 Wednesday 18 November A few months ago I became aware that there seemed to be a lot of false positivity around. It bothered me that we weren’t able to express ourselves truthfully. So, on my Facebook page we have Whinging Wednesday, when people can post three things they want to complain about. I know the value of positivity, but sometimes we need to tell it like it is to someone in the vicinity. I think that’s healthy. ‘Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you’ (1 Peter 5:7). O To
read Karen’s daily posts in full, go to karensandford.blogspot.com Salvationist 28 November 2020
17
BIBLE STUDY
How can I be sure of this? Major Mal Davies explores the question of questioning God
LUKE 1:1–20
A
S we commence the season known as Advent, we turn to the biblical account of Christ’s birth and one of the lesser characters in the story, Zechariah, father of John the Baptist. The first verses of Luke’s Gospel introduce the writer’s reasons for recording an account of the life of Christ after having ‘carefully investigated everything from the beginning’ (v3). Then Luke immediately launches into the narrative, commencing with Zechariah, a priest and a descendant of Aaron, the brother of Moses. He describes Zechariah as ‘righteous in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commands and decrees blamelessly’ (v6).
Through the week with Salvationist – a devotional thought for each day by Lieut-Colonel Ray Oakley
18
QUESTIONS O What does it mean to describe someone as righteous? O Can a non-Christian be considered righteous? Zechariah was descended from Abijah, head of one of the priestly families listed in Nehemiah 12. Once, when his group was on duty at the Temple, Zechariah was chosen to go in and burn incense. He entered alone while other worshippers prayed outside. An angel appeared and, after calming down a startled Zechariah, told him that his wife, Elizabeth, would give birth to a son named John. Earlier, in verse 7, the text says that the couple had no children and were elderly. Even though we’ve not read of any prayers offered by Zechariah, the
angel tells him that his ‘prayer has been heard’ (v13). Therefore, we can assume that Zechariah, and possibly Elizabeth, had been praying to have a child. What was Zechariah’s response? Was he overjoyed? Did he burst into tears of happiness? Did he fall to his knees and praise God for this miracle? Did he start dancing and singing Psalm 126? No. He challenged the angel: ‘How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well on in years’ (v18). QUESTIONS O How do you think you would have responded if you were Zechariah? O If you have a prayer answered, how can you be sure it is God’s work and not mere coincidence? O Are we allowed to pray for miracles?
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
The angel said to him: ‘Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord.’ (Luke 1:13–15)
All things are possible to him/ That can in Jesus’ name believe;/ Lord, I no more thy truth blaspheme,/ Thy truth I lovingly receive;/ I can, I do believe in thee;/ All things are possible to me. (SASB 485)
Zechariah asked the angel, ‘How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well on in years.’ The angel said to him, ‘I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you the good news.’ (Luke 1:18 and 19)
Salvationist 28 November 2020
The angel, unsurprisingly, was less than thrilled with this response: ‘I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words’ (vv19 and 20). A messenger from God’s very presence had been sent by God himself to deliver some good news to Zechariah and, more so, it’s something that Zechariah had been asking specifically to happen. Yet when he received the divine message, Zechariah said: ‘Are you sure about that?’ To be fair, Zechariah isn’t alone in this. Abraham questioned God (see Genesis 15:8); Gideon tested God to be sure of the message he was given (see Judges 6), and Moses checked with
God five times that he had the message right when he was called to lead the Israelites (see Exodus 3 and 4). QUESTIONS O Can you recall a time you questioned God? Maybe it was after life took a sudden twist or during a personal crisis. O What did you say to God? Was it in anger or confusion? O When you question God, how does he respond? Is it directly to you or through other means? Having told him of his enforced silence, Gabriel said to Zechariah that his words ‘will come true at their appointed time’ (v20). It’s an interesting notion, that words can have ‘an appointed time’. There are many times in the Bible when something happens
or is promised to happen at an appointed time, but this is the only occasion in all of Scripture when words are said to have an appointed time. Maybe God wants to say something to you this Advent season, a message you might not have fully heeded in April or July or September but one that might take on deeper meaning at this special time of year. They might, in fact, be words with a divinely appointed time. I pray you listen closely to what God is saying to you this Advent.
MAJOR DAVIES IS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
Though Earth and Hell the word gainsay,/ The word of God can never fail;/ The Lamb shall take my sins away,/ ’Tis certain, though impossible;/ The thing impossible shall be,/ All things are possible to me. (SASB 485)
Elizabeth… gave birth to a I will enter his gates with son. Her neighbours and thanksgiving in my heart./ relatives heard that the Lord I will enter his courts with had shown great mercy and praise;/ I will say this is the they shared her joy… They day that the Lord has made,/ were going to name him I will rejoice for he has made after his father Zechariah, me glad. but his mother spoke (SASB 337) Prayer up and said, ‘No! He Father, as we prepare is to be called John.’ for the coming of Jesus, we (Luke 1:57–60) thank you for the fulfilment of your promises. We are grateful for your love and the presence of your Holy Spirit. Help us declare your message of love to all we meet.
SATURDAY ‘I tell you, among those born of women there is no greater than John; yet the one who is least in the Kingdom of God is greater than he.’ (Luke 7:28)
Salvationist 28 November 2020
19
REFLECTION CTI O REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI EC TION ON
The challenge of staying sane Major Inga Longmore shares how she has tackled the trials of lockdown
M
Y role as a divisional mission enabler at Central North DHQ is one of facilitation. I resource and support people in corps and centres as they endeavour to work out what it means to live out Kingdom values and bring hope and the good news about Jesus into their communities. The biggest impact that Covid-19 has had on my role is in the way that I do it. Normally I am based in the DHQ office for two days a week and visit various corps and centres for three or four. That is now no longer possible. Six years ago my husband, Graham, was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s 20
Salvationist 28 November 2020
lymphoma. He had a stem cell transplant in 2015 and is currently still in remission – thankfully. However, because of this we are shielding. My mum is staying with us too – she normally lives on her own in northern Scotland, with no family nearby. At the beginning of lockdown I brought her to be with us and we are still here together. From what was quite a mobile role, getting out and about and meeting people, which I love, I am now working from a little office in the front of my house. My personal priority at the moment is keeping Graham and my mum safe. I go out for a 9km walk every day at 7 am to avoid bumping into too many people. This way I keep them safe and also keep my sanity! At the same time, my priority in my role as a divisional mission enabler is to use every medium available to me to keep connected to the people I am called to serve. Zoom has become my friend! I am grateful to be invited to be available to support people and their well-being, because I am a people person – I love people and have, over the years, loved working alongside
people to see them flourish. I am learning quickly that being confined to this one space for work doesn’t mean I am ‘stuck’, it just means that I have to think differently, more creatively, about what I can do and how I can connect with people. Like many people, I have good days and bad days. I miss being able to hug my grown-up sons and daughter-in-law, I miss being able to meet my friends physically. But I am grateful for all that I have, being mindful of those who have lost so much during these days. My faith is a major part of who I am and I am encouraged not to waste the experiences that life has dealt me – even the difficult ones. This is not the first big challenge I have faced in my life and, if I can help share the burden of someone else’s challenge in the way that others have supported and encouraged me, then it will all be worth it. O For information about well-being forums, which are led by well-being champions and provide a safe space for sharing and reflection, email wellbeingforall@salvationarmy.org.uk
A time of blessing and opportunity COLUMN FROM THE COLLEGE
T
HIS year has been a year of firsts, and for us here at William Booth College it has been no exception. Due to the coronavirus our three-month placements, which normally begin in July, did not start until the beginning of September. With only four of our session moving away from college during this time, the remaining Messengers of Grace have been able to commute to and from nearby corps. No matter where we have been placed, each of us has had to adapt to ministry that is constantly changing in response to regulations and restrictions. Our placement started with the children, Ella (12) and Noah (8), helping us organise the food donations at the corps. They loved being a part of this and it was wonderful to have them with us for a few days before school started back. We were able to provide several food parcels and continued to work with local people, as well as businesses, to make sure we had sufficient provisions available. One of the highlights has been getting to know the members of the corps and Noah and Ella
As Cadets Heather and Jonathan Culshaw conclude their ministry placement at Welling they look back over three busy and fulfilling months visiting wherever possible. Doorstep conversations and garden visits have been so valuable to the building of relationships. Making sure that everyone received a phone call on a regular basis also gave us opportunity to share with each other about everyday life and spiritual matters, including any prayer requests. This emphasis on pastoral care is something that may not have been such a prominent part of our time on placement had the corps programme continued as it was prior to Covid-19. However, it served to highlight the true value of relationships and just how vital our interactions can be, whether physical or not. With the corps not in a position to use digital platforms for virtual worship, there was a definite challenge for us all in staying connected. It was essential to explore new ways of working, so during the first couple of weeks we created a regular corps newsletter and prayer diary featuring favourite songs and contributions from corps members. It has been a pleasure to share in some significant celebrations too, including the first anniversary of a soldier’s enrolment and the dedication of the corps officer’s newborn baby, through a special-edition worship pack. Our ‘Harvest at Home’ included Scripture, songs and prayers, along with activities based on growing together in Christ. For Remembrance Sunday we produced an audio worship CD with songs, poems, the message and an opportunity to observe the two-minute silence. Even though the corps building sadly remained closed, there was time for us to prepare the way towards reopening when it is safe to do so. This unseen mission involved deep-cleaning, ensuring that we are Covid-compliant and completing the necessary risk assessments. The opportunity to prayerfully reflect and discuss the future mission of the corps has been at the heart of our work. It has been a blessing
to be able to serve in this way, putting faith into practical action. Almost all the many phone calls we received have been from complete strangers willing to make donations to the Army. Their kindness has been simply astounding. In the first four weeks, £350 worth of food was donated, as well as an Eb bass and a mobility scooter! At the beginning of November, we launched our annual Christmas present appeal and were completely blown away by the many offers of gifts, food and monetary contributions from people wanting to help others. Their heartfelt generosity and eagerness to share such gifts with others have been wonderful to experience. It has been amazing to see new relationships begin to grow through these encounters and a true privilege to witness God at work and see how he can use each and every one of us. The day before commencing these ministry placements our session met and reflected on the words from the song, ‘Lord, If Your Presence Does Not Go With Us’ (SASB 1031). As we come to the end of our placement, and our thoughts move toward the Appointments Conference, we pray that the Lord’s presence will continue to ‘convict, inspire, provide’ – and that with his ‘love in us’ we will be able to minister his grace wherever we may serve, both now and in the future. Salvationist 28 November 2020
21
Retired officers
Christmas
MAJORS ALAN AND LINDA AGGETT send Christmas greetings to colleague officers and friends, wishing them health and God’s blessing for 2021.
MAJOR CYRIL CHADWICK sends greetings to all his friends, wishing them a very happy Christmas and a peaceful new year.
MAJORS BETTY AND ALAN BENNETT are again glad to greet our many dear friends at this Christmas time. God bless you!
MAJORS PAM AND EDWIN BROWN send Christmas greetings to all our Christian friends, for a safe and God-blessed new year. May God fill your hearts with his peace, joy and abiding love this Christmas. MAJOR BERYL MOREY
May God bless you with his grace, peace and joy at Christmas and through the new year. In gratitude for former colleagues and dear friends. COLONEL INA MARVELL
MAJOR CHRISTINE MARRIOTT sends to all who read this a prayer for Christmas blessings and a happy new year.
May we rejoice, knowing he is Emmanuel, God with us. Wishing a blessed Christmas to all. MAJOR PAT CHARLESWORTH
MAJORS GERALD AND MILDRED PEACOCK send greetings to our Salvationist friends for a happy Christmas and a blessed new year.
Sending Christmas greetings and praying God’s blessing on each of you at Christmas and in 2021. MAJOR RUTH CURTIS
May his presence fill you with peace and joy this Christmas – and always. Every blessing. MAJOR ANN ANDREWS AND MAJOR RITA ANDREWS
MAJOR NANELLA WEIR sends warm greetings for Christmas and prayers for a blessed and peaceful 2021. God bless you all. We send our love and best wishes to our friends in all parts of the world this Christmas. MAJORS DEREK AND HELEN TYRRELL
22
Salvationist 28 November 2020
Christmas greetings to all comrades and friends. Best wishes for the new year. May God bless you. MAJOR OLIVE STEVENS
Warm greetings to everyone, remembering when God gave us a gift, it was eternally good – and his reason was love. MAJORS KATH AND BERNARD PYMAN
greetings Wishing family and friends a blessed, peaceful and happy Christmas. Stay safe and stay close to Jesus. CAPTAINS PETER AND RUTH HAMMOND
LIEUT-COLONEL ROY GIRLING AND JILL GIRLING send warmest wishes for ‘comfort and joy’ at Christmas and throughout 2021. God bless you all!
A very happy Christmas to all my friends. May God bless you abundantly now and always. MAJOR LILIAN HARKCOM
MAJOR BRENDA JEFFERY AND MAJOR JEAN McCROSSAN send to all family and friends love and best wishes for a very happy Christmas. May God grant you his peace and joy always.
Sending prayerful good wishes for Christmas and the new year to friends and colleagues near and far. COMMISSIONER LYDIE ORD
Rejoice, the Lord has come! Wishing you all a very happy Christmas and a blessed new year. MAJORS JAMES AND CHRISTINE CUNNINGHAM
Christmas greetings and warm wishes for the new year to all my friends. May the hope for the future be like a light for 2021 with goodwill for coming days. COMMISSIONER ROBIN FORSYTH
LIEUT-COLONELS RAY AND JOAN KIRBY send greetings to friends and colleagues for a peaceful and joyful Christmas. Shalom to you all.
Salvationist 28 November 2020
23
VIEW POINT
The Trinity for dummies by Ron Thomlinson with the Rev James Macfarlane
Y
EARS ago, when Halifax Citadel Band mustered five bass players, we proudly headed up the town’s annual parade each Mayoral Sunday. Leaving the hall at the top of North Parade, we descended to the town hall and joined the procession. Mercifully, it was downhill all the way to what was then the parish church, where we played the great and the good into the building. I remember one service when the congregation was reciting the Nicene Creed. At the time I was totally unaware of the difference between catholic with a small ‘c’ and Catholic with a capital ‘C’. Only knowing that the Army creed was printed in the back of the songbook, I absolutely refused to proclaim: ‘We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.’ Pure ignorance on my part. That moment came back to haunt me earlier this year while streaming an Anglican service on Trinity Sunday, in which the vicar announced he would be reciting the Athanasian Creed. ‘Jubilant’ is the only word to describe his anticipation. Totally blinded by scholarly science, I couldn’t make head nor theological tail of what he read. It sounded like some medieval law of parliament. No jubilation for me. I needed my old mate Jim to help me with the matter of the Trinity and to explain why complicated wording seems necessary to theologians. Such language makes theology impossible for dunces like me. Why does it have to be this way? Jim wrote: ‘Ron, this is the toughest question you have asked. Trinitarian doctrine is both complex and simple at the same time. Every Christian knows it as a truth of life, yet the academic theologian never exhausts its doctrinal meaning. Aldous Huxley, no great friend to the Christian faith, nonetheless said something profound about the relation of this simplicity and complexity:
24
Salvationist 28 November 2020
“The course of every intellectual, if he pursues his journey long and unflinchingly enough, ends in the obvious, from which the non-intellectuals have never stirred.” ‘From the moment the first Christians put these two words together – “Lord” and “Jesus” – the doctrine of the Trinity was born. Through Christ we uniquely encounter God. In the simplest and earliest confession that “Jesus is Lord” the experience of the heart and the knowledge of the mind were compressed together, each expressing the mystery of God. ‘The faith of “the heart” is simple, intense and pure. The mind however has to integrate all the facets of that reality into daily life. Knowledge of God is the highest, most vital truth that the mind can grasp. Expert training is needed to explore and master it fully. ‘In a similar way, most hospital patients experience “medical speak” as unintelligible. At some point the consultant addresses the patient, translating the information to a level which can be understood. In the same way, theologians use technical terms that come from rigorous training. But they too have an obligation to translate their peculiar speech into conversation that we can understand and take part in. In fact, every preacher engages in the
same exercise. A good platform address is about making faith understandable to the person in the street. Try speaking to the modern pagan about what is meant by “the Holy Ghost”! ‘About 70 miles northwest of Halifax is Helvellyn ridge, a favourite route of hillwalkers. But in places the ridge has lethal precipices on either side. Only the experienced hillwalker should go there because a wrong step could spell disaster. Flawed theology can also be catastrophic for the inexperienced. If you are not sure of your footing, don’t go there. Would anyone in their right mind want to try DIY brain surgery? ‘In the hands of the gifted, theology nonetheless can be distilled into the sublimest truth. I can give you no better example of that than these lines written by Colonel Catherine Baird: O bright eternal One, Thy voice commanded light And from the shapeless void Called order and delight! O Word invisible, We see thee now appear Along the path we tread, For Jesus Christ is here! ‘In eight lines Catherine Baird has given us the essence of incarnational and trinitarian theology. Within the limits of human form, Christ is the absolute expression of divine reality; the embodiment of God, full of truth and grace; an inexhaustible well of forgiveness, the source of boundless salvation. Get that and you’ve got all that you need from theology. ‘Ron, I hope that sheds some light on the matter. Greetings, Jim.’ RON LIVES IN THE NETHERLANDS AND JIM LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN DUNOON
FEATURE I Kids Alive!
READ ALL ABOUT IT!
Captain Sarah Johnso Johnson on (Sacriston) shares how distributing free copies on of Kids Alive!! to shops s helped deliver the good news to families in County Durham
Vannessa
O
NE of our corps members, Vannessa, told me her dream was for all the local kids to have a free comic if they wanted one. The cost is so high for the comics available in the supermarket that she felt they would miss out. So, last year we began giving out free copies of Kids Alive! at Sacriston Youth Project (SYP), where Vannessa volunteers, and started building relationships. A few of the children won the Kids Alive! competition, which always goes down well, so that was an opportunity to meet some of the families too. After the coronavirus outbreak the idea came to us to give them away in shops. I went to the local supermarkets and the post office to ask if they would be willing to have them at the counter for free each week. They were up for it, so we began giving away about 200 copies a week under a free 12-week trial from SP&S. Another corps member, Ellen, drops the papers off at two shops and two post offices on her motorbike and informs me of any adjustment we need to make to our order. She then puts a picture of the eye-catching cover on our corps Facebook page and the Sacriston community page to remind people that the latest issue is available. We also provide back
issues to the SYP for when they hand out goodie bags. Since our free trial ended we have continued to give away Kids Alive!, trusting that it really is a God thing. We are on mission support with no budget for this, but I feel a real conviction that our Kids Alive! comic is a children’s ministry ‘doing something’. We are right behind it and surround it in prayer. The name of Jesus is mighty and, as Kids Alive! is created in Jesus’ name, it opens the door for the Holy Spirit to enter houses each week through good and wholesome story and play activities, some Bible-related. As Paul says in Ephesians 3:20 and 21 (The Message): ‘God can do anything, you know – far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us.’ So we prayed about stewardship of money and faithfully continued distributing the papers. We presently send out about 100 comics into the community of Sacriston and shops in nearby villages. One of the post offices now has a collection box at the counter too, so I hope this will help towards the costs. Some corps members are donating over and above their cartridge giving to cover Kids Alive! costs and we have decided that the 75 per cent of the Harvest Appeal kept by the corps will go towards the costs. If restrictions allow us to, we plan on reopening our corps charity shop on 2 December, which will be a good opportunity for the manager to give a comic to every family. We haven’t distributed new copies in the charity shop before, but with the reopening we thought it would be a good time to take advantage of this and see how it goes. As relationships grow, local people are understanding who we are and that we have a big heart for the community. During lockdown this has
Ellen led to a combined initiative with SYP and others in which we provide food parcels and help with emergency shopping and prescription collection. Our divisional food hub, based at Southwick Community Project, kept Sacriston’s food bank stocked up until local funding came through. It is still available as and when needed. Relationships are deepening, and we have now begun to have conversations with SYP about working together with the Christmas present appeal. One of our councillors is a key leader at SYP and some of her funding and contacts assist families locally. We look forward to working together more on different mission projects with other corps and groups. We have a heart for children’s ministry at Sacriston but, like so many corps, we do not have the capacity to maintain it regularly. Kids Alive! is showing the community we are doing the best we can for the children. It is our gift to them. I see the Kids Alive! ministry as watering the ground for the future, something beyond us and our view, for generations to come. God has something in store for children’s ministry here. He hasn’t revealed it to us yet – for now he is just asking us to distribute the papers, so we are being faithful to him. Salvationist 28 November 2020
25
ANNOUNCEMENTS
ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTED Effective 1 March 2021 O Major Paul Kingscott, Assistant Chief Secretary, THQ O Major Christine Kingscott, Assistant Secretary for Spiritual Life Development, THQ O Colonel Neil Webb, Divisional Commander, Ireland O Colonel Christine Webb, Divisional Leader for Leader Development, Ireland O Major Howard Russell, Divisional Commander, Anglia WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond (75th) O Lita and Stan Sutton, Eston (22 December) Golden O Majors Bert and Nancy Roper (5 December) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Major Frederick Rainer (90 on 5 December) O Mrs Colonel Eva Cotterill (95 on 6 December) O Mrs Colonel Jean Clark (90 on 10 December) PROMOTED TO GLORY O Roy Horscroft, Bromley Temple O Betty Watson, Belfast Citadel O Peter Davey, Ipswich Citadel, on 28 October O Major Carol Sharrard from Diana Princess of Wales Hospital, Grimsby, on 12 November O Captain Peter Simpson from Royal Stoke University Hospital on 13 November O Rtd BM John Askew, Ipswich Citadel, on 13 November O Major Jean Wise from Hull Royal Infirmary on 14 November O Bernard Whybrow, Southampton Shirley, on 14 November O Joy Hathway, Dereham, on 15 November O Major Iris McKnight from Valley View residential care home, Plymouth, on 16 November BEREAVED O Megan Horscroft, Bromley Temple, of her husband Roy, Stephen Horscroft and Robert Horscroft of their father 26
Salvationist 28 November 2020
O
O O
Jean Askew, Ipswich Citadel, of her husband Rtd BM John Askew, Lyn Walker, Dereham, of her father and Major Douglas Askew of his brother Commissioner Lydie Ord of her brother Rtd BM Albin Deboeck Captain Cheryl Stone, Northampton, and Heather Joy, Worthing, of their father Bernard Whybrow
HAVE YOUR SAY FAITH GROUPS IN ENGLAND The government wants to hear from as many people as possible about how it should engage with faith groups in England (see page 2). Individual Salvationists are invited to take part in the online survey – especially, but not only, those who work or volunteer with government agencies and authorities, for example teachers, civil servants, prison chaplains, police and health and social care workers. The Salvation Army will also respond as a faith-based organisation, but Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant is encouraging as many people as possible to take part so that the Army’s voice is heard. The deadline for responses is 11.45 pm on 11 December. O Take part in the survey by visiting tinyurl.com/ faithgroupsinengland
TRIBUTES MAJOR DAPHNE BROWN DAPHNE May Brown was born in 1927 in Ipswich into a family of ten children. From an early age, she was taken to Ipswich Citadel by her aunt and uncle who were active members there. Daphne revelled in being at a large and busy corps, and was an enthusiastic member of all things Army that were available to her. When she was 18 or 19, an event occurred that changed the whole course of her life. Daphne attended a house party for corps cadets at Sunbury Court,
and for the first time met Margaret Constable from Chester-le-Street, who had already committed herself to Salvation Army officership and was due to enter the training college the following year. Daphne also entered the training college in the Peacemakers session in 1948. After commissioning, she spent six years as a supporting officer, which took her around the country for appointments of six to twelve months. In 1954, to her great joy and surprise, Daphne was appointed to New Seaham to assist Captain Margaret Constable. This partnership of life and ministry was to continue until Margaret was promoted to Glory in 2006. In 2016, Daphne’s physical and mental health began to fail, and she was admitted to the care home from which she was promoted to Glory. Her testimony, ‘I gave my all, and I did my best’, was fully justified to all who knew and loved her. – DC JOAN QUINN, SUNDERLAND MONKWEARMOUTH BORN in Newcastle upon Tyne, Joan was dedicated to God at Newcastle City Temple. Daughter to Edna and Tommy Butler and sister to Ray, Joan was a committed Salvationist, serving in the singing company and later the songsters. Joan married Gordon in 1981. After soldiering at Sunderland Millfield they made Sunderland Monkwearmouth their spiritual home. The family were members of the songsters on a tour of Sweden that still holds fond memories. Joan battled serious illness for more than 20 years. Although not well enough to be active in the corps, she continued to support Gordon in his band service until he needed to devote more time to Joan’s care, despite his own failing health. Joan leaves behind wonderful children, Mark, Kerry and Lisa, and grandchildren Gracie and River. A devoted wife, mother and grandmother, she is with her Lord and at peace. – BW Please note that soldiers’ and adherent members’ tributes should be no longer than 150 words. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk.
ADVERTS CHRISTMAS PRESENT APPEAL
Why not bless a friend or family member with a monthly or annual subscription this Christmas?
Catch The Salvation Army on BBC One’s The One Show over the next few weeks as it features the Christmas Present Appeal. Up to five million people watch each episode so this is an amazing opportunity to reach out to new supporters and demonstrate how the Present Appeal reaches those most in need in our communities. To support the appeal, viewers are encouraged to check salvationarmy.org. uk to find out if their local corps or centre is taking part and how to make a donation.
Written by and for The Salvation Army, Salvationist is a focal point for connection. A monthly rolling subscription costs just £6.18, with issues delivered weekly direct to a reader’s door, subscribing is an easy way to hear the latest news and views of Salvationists from across the territory. For more information on subscriptions, go to sps-shop.com/salvationist, call 01933 445 445 (option 1, option 1) or email subscriptions@satcol.org This subscription offer applies in the UK and Republic of Ireland, with 51 copies delivered over 12 months. You can also make a one-off payment of £74.20 for the year. Please note that different prices apply to mainland Europe and other international orders.
MESSIAH JESUS by Jim Bryden
Mabl l^\hg] [hhd bg FZchk Cbf ;kr]^g l Journey of Faith series examines the life of Jesus – who he was, what he did and his death and resurrection. Sixteen daily readings, explanations and applications, as well as optional short exercises, help the k^Z]^k ]b` ]^^i^k bgmh @h] l phk]'
www.bandstandtales.co.uk
Messiah Jesus is available from onwardsandupwards.org priced £6.99 or as an ebook priced £2.99
Territorial Carol Concert 2020 Wednesday 2 December at 8pm
This online event can be viewed at youtube.com/salvationarmyvideo
An evening of music and Scripture reading featuring the Territorial Commander, International Staff Band, International Staff Songsters and celebrity guests
Salvationist 28 November 2020
27
‘‘‘ All kinds of people attend, join, volunteer with or work for The Salvation Army. We’ve asked some to tell us about themselves. This week… CHLOE EVANS Addlestone How did you first come into contact with the Army? When I was four years old my family and I were looking for a church. We found The Salvation Army, and we have stayed ever since. Three years ago I became an adherent member. What made you want to become an adherent member? I was at a summer camp and felt that God was calling me to go further in my journey. What is your day job? I am at college full-time, taking a childcare course, and I work part-time with children with disabilities. What is the most interesting thing about your work – and the most frustrating? The most interesting thing is that there is such a variety of children with different disabilities and educational needs. Each child is very different. The most frustrating thing is keeping the children in one place or doing one activity.
You split the sea so I could walk right through it. My fears were drowned in perfect love. You rescued me so I could stand and sing: ‘I am a child of God’
’’’
If you could be in a film, which would it be and what character would you play? Donkey from Shrek.
What is your favourite hymn or worship song? ‘No Longer Slaves’ performed by I Am They.
If you were to create a slogan for your life, what would it be? Be strong, you can only get stronger!
Did you have a nickname growing up? Flossy, Chlo or Cloudy.
What sport would you compete in if you were in the Olympics? Swimming.
If you could invent a gadget, what would it be? A toaster that is see-through, so you can see how well done your toast is.
What is your favourite kind of holiday? Somewhere hot with things to do, like sightseeing.
Do you have any hidden talents? I can tie a knot in the stalk of a cherry with my tongue.
If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be? Potatoes.
Apart from the Bible, which book would you want on a desert island? The Harry Potter novels.
What is your favourite food? Anything made from potatoes.
If you had a ‘theme song’ that played whenever you walked into a room, what would it be? The theme tune for Supernatural – ‘Carry On Wayward Son’.
What do you do in your spare time? I’m currently watching the series Supernatural. I also like to spend time with friends. What is your favourite Bible passage? Psalm 23, because it tells me that even when times are hard God is still with me. He wants us to rest when we need to.
What one thing would you change about the Army? The opportunity to meet more people and take part in events with Salvationists from different countries.
Which Bible figure would you like to meet and what would you ask them? Moses. I’d ask, ‘Why did you kill the Egyptian slave-master who was beating a Hebrew, if you didn’t know you were originally a Hebrew?’
If you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose and why? Catherine Booth, because she was a strong woman.
Is there something about life or the world you’ve never understood? Why there is so much hatred in the world and how to stop it.
What was the first record, tape or CD that you ever owned? My World 2.0 by Justin Bieber, released in 2010.
If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be? Human trafficking, because there is so much around but it is hidden.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? Be yourself. What is the most valuable thing you possess? A little angel figurine. It was my grandad’s. He kept it on him at all times before he passed away. Something interesting people might want to know about you is… I have a bearded dragon called Rango.