ELECTION TIME EXPLORING FAITH AND POLITICS
Choices
JUST a few weeks ago we commemorated the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings. Young men from over 30 countries stepped up and stepped out on to the beaches of Normandy to fight for freedom, for all people across occupied Europe, to be able to choose their leaders and governors. The rights of women to be able to vote have also been notably fought for domestically. In just five days’ time, people across the country will go to the polls to choose who they want to lead this United Kingdom over the next five years. Political parties are campaigning in earnest to convince us of their ability to govern well.
The Salvation Army is non-partisan: it does not take sides, seeking only to engage with all policy makers and political parties on matters of social justice.
In this issue of Salvationist, we will reflect on some of the opportunities that engaging with the general election can bring locally and hear from the dedicated team that monitor and help us navigate to best effect our engagement with government.
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SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS
From the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated
Building a flourishing world
Ahead of the general election on 4 July, Captain John Clifton reflects on one of the Army’s four key principles for political candidates
CLIMATE change statistics are often so vast and overwhelming that they can be hard to grasp. However, when its effects touch our everyday lives, it becomes undeniably real. For example, while participating in the Lakesman Triathlon with a swim in Derwentwater, I witnessed the effects of climate change in the Lake District, with warmer temperatures leading to concerns about the spread of toxic blue-green algae, which adversely affects water quality and recreational use.
Today, the challenges posed by environmental degradation are more pressing than ever. Climate change, pollution and deforestation wreak havoc on ecosystems. Even in the Lake District, increased rainfall and flooding – such as the disastrous floods of 2009 and 2015
Reflect and respond
Visit salvationist.org.uk/articles to read Captain John’s series of election reflections about the Army’s four key principles for political candidates, including overcoming poverty, living with dignity and living safely and securely.
To join the Army’s efforts to protect our planet and ensure a just and sustainable future for all, why not become a social justice champion? Find out more at salvationarmy.org. uk/campaigning-and-policy/ social-justice-champions
– and the droughts experienced in 2010 exemplify the extreme weather patterns exacerbated by climate change.
Environmental degradation and climate change affect us all. However, we might forget that there is a disproportionate impact on the world’s most vulnerable populations. With people’s health, livelihood and shelter threatened, the World Bank has estimated that climate change could push up to 135 million people into poverty by 2030.
For decades, The Salvation Army has championed social justice and environmental stewardship, actively engaging in initiatives to protect creation and promote sustainability. Our Movement’s efforts have included advocating for environmental policies, supporting communities impacted by environmental disasters, and implementing sustainable practices within the Army’s operations.
We recognise that caring for creation is an integral part of our mission, grounded in our theological belief that we are stewards of God’s creation. Local communities have been instrumental in these efforts, participating in clean-up campaigns, tree planting and educational programmes to raise awareness of environmental issues.
To build a flourishing world, advocating for key policy changes is essential. First, the Army has called for a commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, a goal that requires bold action and collaboration across all sectors of society.
Second, it has urged support for
international development efforts that address environmental injustices and promote sustainable development. This includes providing targeted aid to climate-impacted countries and investing heavily in renewable energy projects.
Third, it has emphasised the need for leadership and responsibility from elected representatives to tackle environmental issues headon. Again, local communities are pivotal, advocating for these changes, implementing sustainable practices and leading grassroots initiatives. By working together, we can create a more just and sustainable world for future generations.
Salvationists in the UK can use this general election season to act to protect our planet and its people, whether that is getting involved in environmental advocacy, supporting sustainable initiatives or pushing for policy changes.
As Christians, we are called to steward God’s creation, champion environmental justice and support those impacted by environmental crises. Zechariah 7:9 reminds us to ‘administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another’. By embodying these principles in our efforts to care for creation, we are not only caring for the environment, but also for our brothers and sisters across the world.
JOHN CLIFTON Territorial Justice and Reconciliation Officer
CAPTAIN
Garry D Reed
Follow the clues to discover a song in the songbook by
1 Start with the number of books in the Bible.
2 Add the Psalms.
‘We were drawn by the
music coming from the hall’
3 Add the sons of Jacob.
Laura Greaves (Staines) shares how she found the Army on polling day
IBECAME a Christian when I was 18. I grew up in a family where my parents were atheists, and the only mention of religion was through swear words. Childhood was unhappy, and my parents divorced when I was 11.
Frank and I first became adherents, and later I decided to become a soldier. I now play trombone in the band having started to learn one year ago, and we are much more involved in our local community.
4 Add how many attributes there are in the fruit of the Spirit.
5 Subtract the churches mentioned in Revelation 1:11.
6 Divide by the stones David collected to kill Goliath.
7 Multiply by the humans who entered Noah’s ark.
8 Subtract the verses in Psalm 119.
9 Subtract how many disciples were called James.
10 Subtract the disciples present at the Transfiguration.
11 Add the chapters in Luke’s Gospel.
12 Subtract the baskets left over after feeding the 5,000.
13 Subtract epistles traditionally attributed to Paul.
14 Subtract the doors on Noah’s ark.
I attended a boarding school for sixth form and became involved with church. My parents accepted I had become a Christian, but neither of them ever came to faith. The strange fact was they both grew up with Salvation Army parents and professed faith as young adults, but turned away shortly after marrying. I didn’t see much of my grandparents, but later learnt that my maternal grandmother prayed daily for me.
As a believer, I’ve never been concerned by denomination. I was – and am – a Christian. I’ve lived and worked alongside my husband in Cheltenham, Wirral, Warrington, Widnes, Hampton, Ashford, Honduras, Tanzania and Turkmenistan. Wherever we’ve been we’ve worshipped at a church, wherever we felt God led us.
Moving to Ashford in 2010, the Salvation Army hall stood just 100 yards from us, but we chose not to try it. The people seemed odd to us in their uniform. We felt more familiar attending the Anglican church in Egham, particularly as we knew they had a lively youth group for our daughter. But Egham is not our community and, when our daughter moved away, there seemed little sense continuing there.
We value sincerity when it comes to worship. We don’t care for pretence. God accepts us as we are – strong or faltering in our faith – and we should not be left feeling unworthy next to others by the nature of how we worship.
At Staines, we’ve joined a family of sincere believers and I love the fact we don’t have liturgy – sorry to those who like it!
Have you got a testimony to share? Get in touch at salvationist@
salvationarmy.org.uk. husband l, Widnes, onduras, Tanzania and ever rch, felt in 2010, the Salvation 100 from us, but t. form more e kthhd as we knew had or our daughter. But mmunity when there seemed g an and r local our votes, we were music coming a as mesmerised were d so struck endliness g services e and more
In 2018 there was an election, and the Army hall was our local polling station. Having cast our votes, we were drawn by the choir music coming from the hall. I have a musical background and I was mesmerised by the songsters. We were greeted warmly and accepted to join their rehearsals. We were so struck by their warmth and friendliness that we started attending services and, in time, became more and more involved in activities.
I’LL SHOW YOU SOMETHING TO MAKE YOU CHANGE YOUR MIND
Salvationists share artwork inspired by their faith
by Laura Jones (Blackpool Citadel)
What does I’ll Show You Something to Make You Change Your Mind depict?
A bright, vibrant, sunny afternoon in London’s Covent Garden. People busily go about their day while, off to one side, a Salvation Army officer talks to a gentleman experiencing homelessness.
How was it made?
The picture is created using coloured pencil on drafting film. I discovered drafting film fairly recently and I love to draw on it. It has a very smooth surface and is semi-translucent, allowing me to build up depth to the colours by drawing on both sides. I really enjoy working into the detail and can easily spend months on one piece – I was ready to move on to another subject by the time I’d finished this! I’ve really enjoyed it, though. My usual subjects are plants and birds, so drawing people and buildings was pushing my comfort zone.
What inspired it?
The inspiration for this picture came from a visit to London with my husband. We’d seen a show and were walking back to our hotel through Leicester Square. It was a freezing cold night and we got chatting to a gentleman who told us he was sleeping rough that night because he was £90 short on his rent and his landlord had thrown him out. There were countless other people that night with many different reasons for being out on the street. Among the lights and sparkle of the West End – and many other places around the UK and the world – people are really struggling. After our visit, I had an overwhelming need to do this drawing, I couldn’t get it out of my mind. The title is a reference to Ralph McTell’s 1969 song ‘Streets of London’. It highlights that, in all the years since the song was released, the problems in
our society are still the same and The Salvation Army is still helping people now as it did then. The title could be taken to mean the same as it does in the song – if you think things are bad for you, I’ll show you people that have it worse. Or it could be the officer saying to the gentleman: ‘Come with me. I’ll show you God, and with him your life will never be the same again!’
You can support the Army’s work with people experiencing homelessness by buying printed cards of I’ll Show You Something to Make You Change Your Mind . Email blackpool@salvationarmy.org.uk for more information.
Speak the name of Jesus!
ACTS 3:11–26
IN an interview in Salvationist (10 June 2023), General Lyndon Buckingham passionately reminded us: ‘We are a people that love to talk about Jesus. We want people to know that God loves them and that Jesus is the ultimate proof of that love… That’s a big idea of this Movement. We want people to know the good news that there is a life, there is purpose and there is hope and there is eternity, through faith in Jesus Christ. And if we could get excited about that, around the globe, think about the impact of that.’
In an article in Others, General Brian Peddle (Retired) expressed: ‘Let us use every opportunity and every means possible to spread the word about who Jesus is.’
God’s plan through us includes proclaiming the good news of Jesus. Accordingly, it embraces The Salvation Army’s value of boldness in courageously and confidently sharing the good news. As we consider the importance of explaining God’s plan of salvation, our study passage explores the difference the Holy Spirit makes in carrying out this mission. The passage also provides helpful insights for courageously and confidently inviting people to turn in repentance and faith, so they may experience life in all its fullness and one day a home in Heaven.
Explaining the good news of God’s plan requires discernment to recognise opportunities. Peter identifies such an opportunity. Filled with the Holy Spirit, through the authority bestowed upon him by Christ, Peter healed a man. This
caused a stir among the onlookers, who saw the man ‘walking and jumping, and praising God’ (Acts 3:8).
In astonishment, people came running to Peter seeking an explanation. Peter no doubt learnt from following Jesus that people usually come seeking relief from felt needs, rather than seeking God’s plan and truth. However, once they have their need met – or witness such an occasion – people often become receptive to hearing God’s plan and truth (see Luke 5:12–26 and John 8:1–11).
PAUSE AND REFLECT
In your interactions with others, what opportunities could the Holy Spirit be presenting to enable receptive dialogue about the good news?
Peter exhorts us: ‘In your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have’ (1 Peter 3:15). The account in our study passage provides an example of Peter being ready and grasping the opportunity to do so.
Identifying a receptive opportunity, however, is only helpful provided we actually enter into dialogue. In Evangelism in the Early Church, Michael Green highlights that the early Church was ‘intensely sensitive to the felt needs of the listeners’ and that ‘their aim nevertheless remained both simple and direct: to introduce others to Jesus Christ’.
When you serve someone, they or onlookers may encourage you. ‘You’re
Captai
a kind person! What prompted you to serve with The Salvation Army?’ Next time this happens, be ready to follow the example of Peter. Be eager to engage in dialogue. Like Peter, point to Jesus (see v16), respond to questions about Jesus (see v12), witness to the good news (see v15), explain the good news with reference to Scripture (see vv14–26), proclaim restoration through Jesus (see vv19 and 26), and invite them to turn in repentance and faith to Jesus (see v19).
PAUSE AND REFLECT
How could you prepare to dialogue about the good news?
Explaining God’s salvation plan requires us to be personally restored through Jesus and enabled by the Holy Spirit. Ajith Fernando reminds us: ‘We must never forget that all the work in the early Church was done in the power of the Spirit.’ It must be the same for us.
In Acts 3, Peter engages courageously and confidently in proclaiming the good news. In contrast, a few hours before Jesus’ crucifixion, Peter disowned Jesus on three occasions when challenged by three different people (see Luke 22:55–62).
What happened to Peter during that time? What changed? Peter encountered the resurrected Jesus. He was forgiven, restored and commissioned by Jesus (see John 21:15–19). Then, at Pentecost, Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit, enabling him to proclaim the good news of Jesus (see Acts 2).
Peter highlights the truth that the good news is for ‘all peoples on Earth’ (v25).
n Andrew Hammond asks re ready to
proclaim God’s f salvation
PAUSE AND REFLECT
In The Complete Evangelism Guidebook, Scott Dawson comments: ‘The desire to evangelise should not come out of duty or devotion but out of delight… How can we keep him from our conversations if he is truly in our hearts? We cannot! The reason we are able and energetic about sharing Christ is because of the place he holds in our hearts.’ To what extent do you agree with this?
Among the most recent delegation at the International College for Officers, the song ‘I Speak Jesus’ by Charity Gayle became a source of inspiration. As you continue to share the good news, prayerfully reflect upon the words of this song: ‘I just want to speak the name of Jesus/ Over ev’ry heart and ev’ry mind/ … Your name is power/ Your name is healing/ Your name is life/ Break ev’ry stronghold/ Shine through the shadows/ Burn like a fire.’
Let us be Holy Spirit-enabled believers who confidently and courageously share the good news of Jesus!
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 29 JUNE: CARE FOR CREATION – THE REVERSE PRAYER OF ST FRANCIS
Dear Lord, make me a channel of disturbance. Where there is apathy, let me provoke. Where there is compliance, let me bring questioning. Where there is silence, may I be a voice. Where there is too much comfort and too little action, grant disruption. Where there are doors closed and hearts locked, grant me the willingness to listen. When laws dictate and pain is overlooked… When tradition speaks louder than need… Grant that I may seek rather to do justice than to talk about it. Disturb us, O Lord, to be with, as well as for, the alienated; to love the unlovable, as well as the lovely. Lord, make me a channel of disturbance.
SUNDAY 30 JUNE: SABBATH PRAYER – THE FATHER’S LOVE
We thank you that, in you, we see the character we should model, the character of love. We pray for fathers who are struggling with feelings of inadequacy, that they will learn to love as you love us. by Major John McLean (Bedford Congress Hall)
MONDAY 1 JULY: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – HOMELESSNESS SERVICES
Pray that more Salvationists will challenge social injustice and commit to reduce, prevent and end homelessness. May we listen carefully to God, in doing our part, because he will equip us. by Major Danièle Norton (Chaplain, Homelessness Services)
TUESDAY 2 JULY: SERVING AND CARING – INTERNATIONAL HERITAGE CENTRE
On Founders’ Day, we pray for the work of the International Heritage Centre, which chronicles and preserves the history of The Salvation Army. Pray for their work with individuals who were adopted from Salvation Army maternity homes and hospitals.
by Major Kevin Pooley (Social Historian, International Heritage Centre)
WEDNESDAY 3 JULY: GROWING IN FAITH – GENERAL ELECTION
Pray for your member of parliament in the roller coaster of standing for election: for energy for this final day of campaigning, and for peace as they await the results of tomorrow’s vote. Pray that they will know the love of God surrounding them. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
THURSDAY 4 JULY: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – CARIBBEAN TERRITORY
Pray for territorial leaders Commissioners Devon and Verona Haughton and the team, as they lead a territory spread across many different islands. Pray particularly for Salvationists in Jamaica who have recently been helping to care for people fleeing violence in Haiti. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room Team)
FRIDAY 5 JULY: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – NEWLY ELECTED MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT
We pray for all elected to parliament, giving thanks for the gifts and skills they bring, and for their desire to commit themselves to public service. We pray they will grasp the opportunity to work for justice and reconciliation in their constituencies. by Major Nick Coke (Territorial Co-ordinator for Justice and Reconciliation)
CAPTAIN ANDREW HAMMOND Programme Officer International College for Officers
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.
On Earth as it is in Heaven
As people prepare to vote in the general election, Ivan Radford considers the relationship between faith and politics
‘THE Earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.’ Those words from Psalm 24:1 are often thought of in relation to stewardship of God’s creation. But they also speak to a wider truth: that everything on Earth falls under the sovereignty of God. That includes people and, therefore, politics.
Faith and politics have always been uneasy partners, understandably so. But politics are part of this world and we are called by God to be in the world, not of the world. ‘My prayer is not that you take them out of the world, but that you protect them,’ Jesus prayed for his disciples. ‘They are not of the world, even as I am not of it’ (John 17:15 and 16). We are called not to withdraw but to show God’s love and spread the good news – to build God’s Kingdom. When we pray the Lord’s Prayer, we acknowledge both God’s sovereignty and that mission, asking that ‘thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven’. How often do you look at the world in all its messy brokenness, injustice and environmental neglect and think ‘yes, this is a place where God’s will is being done’?
The Salvation Army has always been willing to roll its sleeves up and do something about that. It’s a Movement rooted in the knowledge that love is a verb as well as a noun (see 1 John 4:7–21).
This love is shown in bringing people to a fullness of life with Jesus that is entirely holistic. As Desmond Tutu once put it: ‘When people were hungry, Jesus didn’t say, “Now is that political or social?” He said, “I feed you.” Because the good news to a hungry person is bread.’
That is why the Army has a Public Affairs Unit that campaigns on key principles relating to the Army’s work and mission. The Army is not apolitical in the sense that it is disengaged, but it is non-partisan: it’s interested in measures, not parties, in seeking justice and reconciliation and serving others without discrimination.
William Booth famously once said: ‘The chief dangers which confront the coming century will be religion without the Holy Ghost, Christianity without
Christ, forgiveness without repentance, salvation without regeneration, politics without God, and Heaven without Hell.’
Booth wasn’t suggesting all Salvationists should go out and start political parties, but he was talking about integrity. As salvation people, we are called to live out God’s love in every aspect of our being and doing – to be citizens of God’s Kingdom, to seek it first before anything else. That citizenship transcends earthly society, and its upside-down values shape our actions, including how we engage with politics.
This principle is baked into the Army’s global identity. Its international positional statement, The Salvation Army and the State, says: ‘The Salvation Army seeks opportunities to work in co-operation with the state and its agencies whenever their actions promote a just and fair society.’
Humans are complicated. Groups of people are even more so. Throw political views and unjust social structures into that group and you end up with the kind of heated debates you often see during an election campaign. While people might disagree on how a society can be made fairer, God wants us to ‘act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God’ (Micah 6:8), to respect the authority of the state (see Romans 13), and to make petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving for all people – ‘for rulers and for all who have authority’ (1 Timothy 2:1 and 2 Easy-to-Read Version).
We are called to have faith running through every part of our lives, including politics. Faith, not unlike who we choose to vote for, can be personal and private, but however you vote as a constituent in the general election, we must remember where our citizenship lies – in a Kingdom of truth, mercy, equity, human rights and peace. Wouldn’t it be great if we could say the same of this world?
IVAN RADFORD Managing Editor Salvationist
Engaging with politicians
As election season reaches its peak, the Public Affairs Unit provides advice on raising issues with candidates
THE Salvation Army is committed to seeking justice and reconciliation, so that all people can flourish, including society’s most vulnerable and marginalised people. The Army is non-party political but has a privileged position to speak on behalf of the people it helps and enable their voices to be heard. Elections are an opportunity to share these voices with political candidates. But how can employees, officers, members and volunteers do this without being seen as biased or favouring a party?
The Electoral Commission makes it clear that it is important for charities and organisations such as the Army to participate in general elections. Having said that, there are laws that apply during an election campaign.
Charity law governs what charities can do. The key points are: it needs to be based upon experience and in line with the charity’s founding objects; any claims must be credible and backed up; and it can be political but not party political.
Electoral law governs what organisations can say. The key points are: you can encourage people to vote; you can organise visits and hustings, but should extend invites to all candidates to ensure fairness; and you can campaign on issues that are important to you and reflect the charitable objects and mission priorities of the Army. You must never, however, tell people who to vote for.
While everyone representing the Army must maintain political impartiality, that doesn’t mean you can’t raise issues and meet with candidates – what’s important is that you provide the same opportunities, or ask the same questions, to every candidate.
All requests for visits or meetings
are great opportunities for the Army to advance its mission. You can then share the voices of the people the Army helps by offering insights, experiences and local knowledge.
If you are approached for a visit or meeting, speak to the Public Affairs Unit as they can offer support on the subjects you want to raise and keep a record of political contact, as well as better coordinate the Army’s relationships with government.
The Army does not take a stance on the outcome of an election nor support any political party or candidate. Anyone who works for or is part of the Army should not suggest otherwise on social media or in any other public way.
The Army does make public statements on key policy areas. The Public Affairs Unit has prepared resources covering four key principles to help you consider what you are looking for from your candidates to build a better world: overcoming poverty, living with dignity, living safely and securely, and building a flourishing world. You can read more about them at salvationist. org.uk/pau. You are free to speak and potentially campaign on other areas, so long as they are in keeping with the Army’s values and are non-party political.
While employees, members, officers and volunteers must maintain political impartiality, remember that any interaction with a candidate is a potential opportunity to build a relationship with your next elected representative, and help support the Army’s work locally and nationally.
• Read the full Election Guidance for Corps, Staff and Volunteers at salvationist.org.uk/pau. Get in touch with the Public Affairs Unit at public. affairs@salvationarmy.org.uk
Election questions
Can the Army carry out campaigning and political activity?
Yes – any charity can become involved in campaigning that supports its purposes, also known as its charitable objects. These must be legitimate, reasonable and not aligned with one political party.
Can I support a particular candidate or party?
Yes – in a personal capacity. During an election, officers should avoid campaigning for a candidate or party as this could be taken as an endorsement by the Army.
Can I join a political party?
Yes – in a personal capacity, but not as a representative of the Army. You should not wear your uniform to events or give the impression you are representing the Army.
Can I stand for elected office?
A number of employees, members and volunteers have gone on to hold elected office. If you are intending to stand for election, please inform your line manager or corps officer. Active officers cannot stand in a political election, although retired officers can. As a candidate, it is important to avoid associating your candidacy with your Army work or ministry.
Making it count
Salvationist explores how corps can turn polling day into an opportunity for outreach
ON Thursday 4 July, millions of people across the UK will cast their votes in the 2024 general election. Some will step inside Salvation Army halls to vote. How are those buildings selected? And how can that be turned into a missional opportunity?
Premises for polling are picked by local authorities, with a review of places carried out at least once every five years. Several factors are considered, from transport links and the space available to the building’s availability. It must also be accessible so that people can vote without facing barriers.
“ Being a polling station brings many people into our buildings who would otherwise not do so. ”
Corps across England, Wales and Scotland have served as polling places in both local and general elections. On Thursday, many of them will again welcome voters through their doors.
Footfall season
The Public Affairs Unit encourages corps to accept requests to be used for polling, as ‘it brings many people into our buildings who would otherwise not do so’.
‘It is a great opportunity to have several hundred people come through the door,’ agrees Major Peter Renshaw (Aberdeen Citadel). The corps has been used as a polling place for many years.
Camberwell Corps was used for the first time in the recent local elections and will be used again on Thursday.
‘It allows for a lot of footfall. You never know what that may lead to,’ observes corps officer Captain Richard Wearmouth.
‘It is a great missional opportunity to engage with people who might not know we are here, never mind what we do,’ agrees Captain Nicola Brooksbank (Southend Citadel). Its hall will also be a polling place again on Thursday.
Right place, right time
Polling stations are open from 7am to 10pm and it is strictly required that voters can vote safely and in secret, with no campaigning or influencing their vote. To ensure there is no tampering, tight security is in place. All this is handled by local authority officials.
‘We helped with how they would set up to make sure it would operate securely,’ explains Richard. ‘We got to build relationships with the officials and they sent us positive feedback.’
Camberwell decided the safest thing would be to cancel a group that would take place on polling day, so that officials could have full access to the building. Aberdeen Citadel has similarly decided not to have any other activities in the building on polling day.
At Shoeburyness Corps, the main hall will be used once again as a polling place, with no activities typically running on Thursdays. However, the charity shop on site will remain open.
Corps officer Captain Jonathan Heward says: ‘We often extend its opening hours to make benefit of the additional footfall. We also have volunteers available to talk with people who come in during the day.
Southend Citadel hasn’t cancelled any of its usual activities, thanks to the number of halls and rooms in the building.
‘Our songsters rehearsal is on a Thursday evening in the next room,’ says Nicola. ‘People voting have remarked on enjoying hearing them and it is not unusual for them to hang around or listen. The staff appreciate it too!’
Building relationships
Regardless of whether activities take place, being a polling place is an opportunity to connect with voters and build relationships.
‘We try to make sure there are people from the church around to say hello and be welcoming,’ says Nicola.
There are the officials manning the polling stations too.
Peter says: ‘There will be a uniformed Salvationist on site from 5.30am to midnight to provide hospitality to officials.’
‘We make sure they know they can make themselves at home,’ chimes in Nicola. ‘We also discovered last year it was a good opportunity to chat to community safety officers and others who called in to make sure everything was OK.’
While there are restrictions on what can be displayed at a polling station, noticeboards or literature on the way in and out of the building are useful points of contact too.
‘Our entrance has clear signage about who we are and how we serve the community,’ comments Captain Rachel Dunham, corps officer at Plymouth Exeter Hall Whitleigh, which has also served as a polling station in the past.
Peter adds: ‘I keep an up-to-date noticeboard with corps activities and a Christian poster at the entrance. There are leaflets and Christian literature for people to take.’
‘We recently designed a sign for the corps with our mission to love God and love others, which is right in the centre of our entrance,’ says Richard. ‘It is clear we are a Christian church.’
‘For last polling day we had posters for all our activities displayed,’ says Nicola. ‘We also had flyers in the entrance alongside devotional books such as Our Daily Bread
‘This year we’ve put together a big portable display board that guides people to the hall used for voting and sections off our worship hall.’
At Shoeburyness, as well as
a noticeboard in the foyer advertising the corps programme, there is a Hello Community banner stand from salvationist.org.uk/ resources/hello, plus Christian posters.
Leaflets being picked up can be a promising indicator of engagement.
‘A number of flyers were taken,’ says Nicola. ‘In the days after, we received calls and emails from a couple of people asking for further details. We’ve had someone come to one of our weekday activities as a result of the information he saw when he came to vote.’
The impact also pays off in other ways, such as through the money received for hiring out the premises.
‘We welcome the income it provides!’ says Rachel.
‘It’s a good donation towards our community work,’ agrees Richard. ‘It’s a win-win situation.’
How can a corps serving as a polling place make the most of it?
‘See it as an opportunity for community engagement – although the income is an incentive too! – and be intentional about using the building to share the good news,’ proposes Nicola.
‘Make sure the hall is well presented,’ suggests Peter. ‘Have one or two people in uniform or witness wear visible on the day.’
‘Be prepared to support the officials as it’s an important day and they have an important job,’ encourages Richard.
‘Be hospitable and helpful to them,’ agrees Peter, ‘and they will want to use the building again.’
Daring to care for colleagues
HILTON BIRMINGHAM METROPOLE
FOLLOWING the success of last year’s gathering – which focused on the environment – the 356 delegates at the Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd (SATCoL) annual conference were encouraged to dare to care for colleagues, writes Editor Major Julian Watchorn. ‘Care’ is an acronym for the company’s values of compassion, accountability, respect and equality, but it is much more than a clever use of words. The values are embedded in the day-to-day ethos of SATCoL’s work, each one directly relevant to demonstrated attitudes and behaviours.
A choice of wellbeing activities eased everyone into the peoplefocused conference. Spa, circus skills, a chocolatier, caricature drawing, walking, running, music and board games gave a wide selection of opportunities to unwind.
An awards ceremony – serenely hosted by Major Jo Moir (THQ) –celebrated the excellent and exemplary work of individuals and teams over the past year. Three awards for 30 years’ service demonstrated how the company’s commitment to people is felt and appreciated by its 1,200 employees and 5,000 volunteers alike. There was great excitement as these long-serving employees presented Territorial Leader Commissioner Paul Main with a cheque for more than £11 million towards the wider work of The Salvation Army.
There was also celebration of national awards and nominations within the charity retail sector, most recently the Drapers Sustainable Fashion awards.
Continuing the people focus, SATCoL’s managing director, Trevor Caffull, spoke of the importance of family, which, he explained, is how the workforce often regard their colleagues.
Quoting Richard Branson, he said: ‘Success in business is all about people,
people, people. Whatever industry a company is in, its employees are its biggest competitive advantage.’ He went on to affirm that, whether employee or volunteer, all are treated with equal value.
He spoke of an epiphany that came far later than it should in his career: the wellbeing of colleagues needs to be the number one priority. He realised that the more you invest in people, the more they will give back. It is therefore our responsibility to enable those for whom we have responsibility to be the best versions of themselves that they can be.
Quoting a line often attributed to Theodore Roosevelt, he added: ‘Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care.’ Therefore, there has been intentional increased investment in wellbeing. He stated the need to ensure that SATCoL’s equality, diversity and inclusion agenda is more than mere theory.
Speaking of the company’s triple bottom line of people, planet and profit, Trevor spoke of significant achievement across the board towards their five-year targets.
“ The more you invest in people, the more they will give back. ”
Addressing the conference for the first time as chair of the board, Tony Hosking spoke of the challenges and opportunities facing the company over the coming year, and the outperformance of the company against its competitors by an average of 7 per cent in the past financial year. Note was made of the 47 donations centres across the country, and continued investment in the circular clothing model was encouraged.
The Family Tracing Service were the guest keynote speakers, led by Team Leader Karen Wallace.
Making the connection between themselves as a service and SATCoL, she said that ‘both seek to make something new’. She gave insight
Trevor Caffull
into some statistics, outlining that the service – in its 140th year – is the oldest family tracing service in the world, and continues to have an 89 per cent success rate. With only three case workers, they each carry approximately 200 cases at any given time, with over 2,500 unique enquiries and 500 new cases each year. Although not incomegenerating, they are profitable in living out the territorial mission priority of seeking justice and reconciliation.
After further breakout sessions focused on wellbeing – including a marketplace of the many faces and divisions within the SATCoL family – the company’s director of mission,
Garry Smith, addressed the conference before the final keynote speaker, Commissioner Paul.
The commissioner focused on daring to care for our neighbour, quoting Luke 10:27 and Matthew 25:40. Sharing excerpts from The Hidden Life of Trees, he shared fascinating facts regarding the communal nature of trees and the value in being socially dependent. Comparing our own need for others, he called those gathered to make deep roots planted in good soil, quoting Psalm 52:8 and Jeremiah 17:7–9. He then shared a video about the living root bridges of Meghalaya, India. They connect communities across potentially
torrential rivers using the roots of trees that have been trained to link together over generations. These pathways now offer opportunities beyond any individual village.
Linking to the territorial vision of fullness of life for all with Jesus, the commissioner stressed the importance of giving. We each have much to give, he reminded us, and in giving we have much to gain.
The conference was punctuated by a series of short videos, in which employees and volunteers told their stories. Some were particularly moving. The conference concluded with thanks from Trevor.
SATCoL award winners
Karen Wallace
Commissioner Paul Main
Major Jo Moir
Isle of Man Opening doors
Perseverance and patience
We arrived six years ago to journey alongside the corps, who have been on a long and winding road in terms of their building project.
For three years we worshipped and ran the programme in an abandoned primary school. We then purchased the current site, which had an existing building, and ran a limited programme from there. While designing the extension and applying for planning permission, we worshipped at a Methodist church for another three years. Rehearsals, Bible studies, prayer meetings, the debt advice service and administration operated out of different locations during this time of transition.
We moved in October 2023, having obtained permission to become a church and community centre. We’re now based on the Isle of Man Business Park.
On our first Sunday in the new building, we celebrated our 140th corps anniversary with Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main. We wanted them to lead it because they were corps officers here many years ago. They returned for the official opening six months later.
Since our opening, the new facility has proven popular – our parent-and-toddler group recently hit 99 attendees. People travel from all over the island to enjoy our great space, and they love that it’s contemporary.
Legacies for the future
Although we’re not yet a registered Eco Church, we intentionally built green elements into our new facilities. We have solar panels linked to a Tesla Powerwall and it’s amazing when the app tells us we’ve saved so many tonnes of carbon emissions and planted so many equivalent trees. An air-source heat pump feeds into our underfloor heating system in our main hall, and we have an energy-efficient gas boiler in the other section of our building. The whole project was exclusively funded by the corps through legacies and fundraising. Caring for creation is important to us.
It’s about setting a good example and being role models to the next generation.
Bridging church and community
Our community relief programme supports people most in need, and people know they can turn to the Army when they’re in trouble. Our debt advice service – which started during the Covid-19 pandemic – is a massive part of our work. On average we serve 50 clients at any time. We can offer long-term solutions that go beyond a temporary handout. A new initiative that developed from the debt advice service is our Connect group – a place for people experiencing extreme loneliness or isolation.
As officers, we’ve joined the Homelessness Strategic Partnership established by the Isle of Man government to work towards tackling and ending homelessness. It’s currently against the law to sleep rough outdoors, so we’re campaigning for a duty of care where the government has responsibility to assist people who find themselves in this vulnerable position. Prayers would be appreciated in shaping the future of this social justice matter.
If you build it, they will come
When we moved in, we invited anybody connected to the Army to come and see the new hall or join our anniversary. We encouraged our worshipping community to invite friends and family back. People who worshipped with us in the past have reconnected. We’re seeing new
commitments being made, mostly because you can see that God’s doing something new. Something exciting and fresh is happening on the island!
Our God is a God of miracles and the God of the impossible. He gave us Revelation 3:8, and he’s opened doors for us repeatedly when it seemed impossible. He was faithful and we need to honour him in everything we do.
We’re exploring and hearing God’s heart and God’s call for this facility and we ask for prayers that it will be used to the best of its capacity and as a base to reach further into the community.
Fast Facts
DIVISION: North West and Isle of Man
CORPS OFFICERS: Captains Dylan and Rachael Nieuwoudt
FIND US ONLINE: facebook.com/ SalvationArmyIsleofMan
COMMUNITY
SWADLINCOTE A special afternoon tea treat at Planters at Bretby recognised the commitment of volunteers during Volunteers’ Week. Around 17 people came together with corps officer Major Marjory Parrott for fun and fellowship. Volunteers currently work within the corps covering the thrift store, community drop-in café, community lunches, donations and the toddler group. – JP
EVENT
Wood Green’s over-60 club visit London Zoo on their first day trip since the Covid-19 pandemic
COMMUNITY
DINNINGTON The corps marked Volunteers’ Week by shining a light on the volunteers, churches and businesses who keep the food bank running as need continues to increase. Community Mission Facilitator Les Clarke, who runs the food bank with volunteers Joanne Clarke and Councillor Steve Scott, said: ‘We rely on volunteers, people like Joanne, who has been doing this for 25 years.’ – AR
EVENT
SALE The corps celebrated Volunteers’ Week with a buffet lunch for all the volunteers who support the day-to-day activities of the weekly programme and charity shop. Corps officers Majors Ann and Donald Montgomery shared words of appreciation for the volunteers, including Community Manager Rachel Steward. – AM
MUSIC
WELLING At the start of the year, the corps donated its unused brass instruments to the Kenya Trust. Feeling that music-making at the corps did not need to stop just because they had no brass players, people have shared their musical talents with performances from guitars, recorders and more. Sunday morning saw the first official recorder lesson, as one of the soldiers sat down to help one of the youngest corps members take her first steps on her musical journey. – KS
ARMY NEWS
THQ Partnering Citizens UK, The Salvation Army became an ambassador for the Voter Registration Champion scheme, encouraging the people they serve – often the most marginalised people in communities – to register to vote. Territorial Co-ordinator for Justice and Reconciliation Major Nick Coke said: ‘The Salvation Army is politically neutral, but as well as encouraging the people we support to vote, many of our officers will be speaking to local prospective candidates. Officers are embedded in communities across the UK and see how need changes depending on the location. We want parliamentary candidates to understand not just the levels of need but also what works locally to help people transform their lives.’ – AR
COMMUNITY
TEDDINGTON The band joined with Feltham Corps at its community celebration day, providing music outside the hall and celebrating all that the Army in the area is doing to love God and love its community. – EW
EVENT
NORWICH CITADEL The Travelling Trends Fashion Show visited the corps, raising nearly £300 for the Big Connection. Pictured are corps members Hannah Potter, Catherine Parker, Hannah Stewart and Beth Frost, who modelled the clothes. – MW
REMEMBRANCE
COMMUNITY
AUSTIN HOUSE FAMILY CENTRE To mark Volunteers’ Week, the community centre thanked all the people who give their time and help to make the community special. Community Manager Graham Wharton said: ‘We find that people come here for a bit of company, some food or they might bring their kids
encourage them to help out where they can. Volunteering has so many benefits for physical and mental health.’ – AR
COMMUNITY
Corps SergeantMajor Stuart Burgess sounded the Last Post and Colour Sergeant Graham Holland bore the standard for the Royal Air Forces Association at the Clowne war memorial to commemorate the Normandy landings
DUNSTABLE Volunteers’ Week began with a volunteer fair. Six people enquired about opportunities to volunteer, with one returning to help
Recognising the time and effort people in the corps devote, 36 volunteers enjoyed a buffet lunch and the chance to share how they help at weekly activities. As part of the week, a small team from Network Rail helped with cleaning, painting and maintenance. – RC/JC
CHILDREN AND YOUTH
LURGAN The corps celebrated their Sunday school children during the meeting. Corps officers Majors Colin and Maureen Bain and Amelia Timmis presented books, and children led the song ‘Shine’ and the Lord’s Prayer. – CB
COMMUNITY
BRIDGWATER The corps thanked the family and friends of Luke Organ, who kindly donated a defibrillator in his memory. Luke’s family and friends continue to raise funds
community through cardiac charity SADS UK. – HC
COMMUNITY
SHAW 150 visitors attended a model railway show at the corps. Major Nigel Tansley is a member of the club that provided the models and layouts.
to people about the work of the Army, share details of future events and highlight the corps Facebook page.
thanks to all members of the corps who helped make the day so successful. – KH
LEICESTER WEST
RUMBI Mafuba, Winnie Lam and Sandra-Cindy Goredema were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Lieutenant Liam Beattie. All shared powerful testimonies of feeling welcomed and loved as part of the church family and are excited for their chapters of soldiership to carry on. Pictured with the flag is Corps Sergeant-Major Timothy Watch. – LB
CARDIFF CANTON
EMMA and Howell Simpkins were welcomed as adherents by corps officer Major David Woodman. Emma and Howell were happy to formalise their membership in this way having been active participants in our fellowship for a number of years. – DW
BEDFORD CONGRESS HALL
GRAHAM and Patricia Gregory were enrolled as soldiers by corps officers Majors Andrew and Valerie Spivey. Graham and Patricia have been attending for seven years and have felt welcomed and blessed. Graham testified to the Spirit’s leading in their lives to this point of covenant with God. Also pictured is Recruiting Sergeant June Hill. – VS
SANDRA Warburton was enrolled as a soldier by corps officers Captains Andrew and Lorraine Warriner. During the enrolment Sandra testified how thankful she is to God for protecting her throughout her 85 years and for leading her to the Army through her neighbour. She added that, although she may not be able to do much, she can still pray, read her Bible and be a witness to her family and friends. – AW
PONTYPOOL
PREM Naveen Dhas Prem was enrolled as a soldier by corps officers Major John McLean and Captain Lydia Bartlett. Having grown up in the corps he gave testimony to God’s grace in his life. Also pictured is Corps Treasurer Philip Northwood. – JM
SHEFFIELD CITADEL
ARMY PEOPLE
Local officers appointed
CORPS SERGEANT-MAJOR
SIMON GIRLING , Ipswich Citadel
ASSISTANT CORPS
SERGEANT-MAJOR JANINE
JACOBS, Ipswich Citadel
CORPS SERGEANT-MAJOR
SUE KENDALL , Newbury
CORPS SECRETARY
CHERYLEE McCARTHY, Newbury
COMMUNITY CARE
MINISTRIES SECRETARY
JUNE SMITHSON, Newbury
Wedding
anniversaries
Emerald (55 years)
CAPTAINS MARILYN AND TREVOR WARMINGTON on 12 July
Dedicated to God
MAYA VHENEKA
NYANHONGO, Noah Tafara Nyanhongo and Theo
Tadiwa Nyanhongo, children of Amanda Tembedza and Donald Nyanhongo, at Birmingham Citadel by Captain Clare Allman
SUKH KAUH, daughter of Kiran Rathod and Manjit Singh, at Staple Hill by Major Colin Hylton-Jones
Promoted to Glory
KENNETH COOKE, Stockton
GLYN ROBERTS, Sleaford
RETA WELLS, Edinburgh Gorgie
MARGARET GRANT, Hamilton, on 23 May
MYFANWY ALLCOCK , Hamilton, on 26 May
Bereaved
ELAINE HENDERSON, Parkhead, of her husband
Thomas Henderson, Kirsty Logan, Parkhead, of her father
ANN ROBERTS, Sleaford, of her husband Glyn Roberts
BANDSMAN/SONGSTER
HUGH GRANT, Hamilton, of his wife Margaret Grant, Bandsman Douglas Grant , Hamilton, of his mother
PAUL ALLCOCK, Hamilton, of his wife Myfanwy Allcock, Denver McKay of his mother
Long service
35 years
MAJOR ADRIAN COUPE , Rochdale
MAJOR CAROLE GADSDEN, Wimborne
MAJOR PAUL HILDITCH, William Booth College
MAJOR MARK PRICE, Central and Southern Scotland DHQ
MAJOR SARAH PRICE, Central and Southern Scotland DHQ
MAJOR FIONA SAYER , East Midlands DHQ
MAJOR SALLY SPRY, Hoxton
30 years
MAJOR SANDRA BATTLE, Personnel Service, THQ
MAJOR STEPHEN BATTLE, Business Administration Service, THQ
MAJOR PHILIPPA CHAGAS, Brazil Territory
MAJOR HEATHER COLES, Chaplain, Glebe Court Care Home, London
MAJOR DENISE COOPER , Central, Southern and Channel Islands DHQ
MAJOR CLAIRE DICKENS, Winsford and Chaplain, The Hawthorns Care Home, Buxton
MAJOR GARETH DICKENS, Winsford
MAJOR CHRIS HERBERT, Liverpool Walton
MAJOR LIN HERBERT, Liverpool Walton
MAJOR PHIL HOWE, Chelsea and Business Administration Service, THQ
MAJOR PAMELA-JAYNE JOHNSON, Hereford
MAJOR DAVID MURRAY, Leighton Buzzard
MAJOR LINDY ROSE, East Midlands DHQ
MAJOR MARK ROSE, East Midlands DHQ
MAJOR ANDREA
SAWYER , William Booth College
MAJOR MARK
SAWYER , William Booth College
MAJOR ELAINE TURNER , Thurso
ENGAGEMENTS
General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham Sun 30 Jun – Wed 3 Jul South Pacific and East Asia College for Officers
Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Shelley Hill Thu 11 Jul Sunbury Court (ICO Welcome Meeting)
Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main
Sat 29 Jun – Sun 30 Jun Penge
Sun 7 Jul Westminster Abbey (Annual Civic Service)
Wed 10 Jul William Booth College (Covenant Day)
Thu 11 Jul Sunbury Court (ICO Welcome Meeting)
Fri 12 Jul Newport Cathedral (150 Years of The Salvation Army in Wales)
Sat 13 Jul – Sun 14 Jul ICC Wales (Together 2024)
Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest
Wed 10 Jul William Booth College (Covenant Day)
Fri 12 Jul Newport Cathedral (150 Years of The Salvation Army in Wales)
Sat 13 Jul – Sun 14 Jul ICC Wales (Together 2024)
NOTICES
Wales 150 Days of Prayer
On 18 June, the Wales Division started 150 days of prayer to mark the 150th anniversary of The Salvation Army in Wales. Follow along with each day’s prayer focus at salvationist.org.uk/wales150
Updated divisional maps now available
Updated maps of the Central, Southern and Channel Islands, Central and Southern Scotland and South West Divisions are available on salvationist.org.uk/our-territory
Appointments list 2024
The annual list of appointments will be published in the 20 July issue of Salvationist
SOUNDS
Sunday Worship
Captain Rob Westwood-Payne (Maidenhead) leads Sunday Worship this weekend. Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights, including music, prayer and a Bible message. Each week’s broadcast is also repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
The All Terrain Podcast
The guest in this episode is Andy Flannagan, a Luton-based, Irish singer-songwriter and the executive director of Christians in Politics. Download accompanying sketch notes at salvationist.org.uk/ all-terrain-podcast
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/podcasts
Morning Praise with Kids Alive!
Get your day started with half an hour of music, prayer, a thought and lots of giggles! Listen on Sundays from 9am to 9.30am. The broadcast is also repeated in full on Mondays and Saturdays at 7.30am.
• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio
ADVERTS
TO LET
ALTEA, SPAIN Modern two-bedroom, two-bathroom heated apartment. Pool, tennis, garden, garage. Shops, restaurants, beach close, hill-walking. Warm winter area. Airport transfers available. Tel 02920 759314 or email dee.jones@virgin.net.
TOPSHAM, DEVON Two-bedroom cottage overlooking Exe Estuary and hills. Local shops, inns, teashops, walks. Coast, moors, Exeter nearby. Tel 02920 759314 or email dee.jones@virgin.net. The salvationist.org.uk events hub is the go-to place for upcoming events and gatherings.
103 OLD ROAD, CLACTON-ON-SEA CO15 1HN
Clacton Corps & Hospital Radio Colchester present THE HOUSEHOLD TROOPS BAND OF THE SALVATION ARMY
Saturday 6 July, 7pm
Advance tickets £8 each (£10 on the day if still available)
Available from hrcolchester.co.uk/bandconcert
Email: brightcol25@gmail.com Mobile: 07801 996072
SITTINGBOURNE CORPS
140TH ANNIVERSARY REUNION WEEKEND
Saturday 14 September, 7pm Sunday 15 September, 10.30am
Worship and celebrations led by Commissioners Anthony and Gillian Cotterill
Sittingbourne Corps, Shortlands Road, Sittingbourne ME10 3JT
Greetings and RSVPs should be sent to susan.jones@salvationarmy.org.uk
Online discussions
Music and creative arts
Inspiring conferences
Territorial networks salvationist.org.uk/events
