Salvationist 29 May 2021

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Gathered together Finding fellowship in Dublin City PLUS

WILL YOU TAKE THE HERALD’S CHALLENGE?

SEE PAGES 8 AND 9

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

CHRISTIANS CALL FOR JUSTICE ON ANNIVERSARY OF KILLING OF GEORGE FLOYD An array of senior church leaders from Britain and Ireland will call for justice at a national church service marking the first anniversary of the killing of George Floyd…

Titled Doing Justice: A National Service of Reflection on the Anniversary of the Murder of George Floyd, the service … will remember the tragic death of Mr Floyd, as well as challenge churches and communities in Britain and Ireland to stand up for justice, and against racism, ignorance and hatred…

BBC Radio 4 will … broadcast the service at 8.10am on Sunday 30 May for its Sunday Worship programme.

The national service features contributions from the Archbishop of York – the Right Rev Stephen Cottrell, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo from Kingsway International Christian Centre, Pastor Agu Irukwu of RCCG’s Jesus House, the Bishop of London – the Right Rev Sarah Mullally, the Bishop of Dover – the Right Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin, the Rev Les Isaac from the Ascension Trust and Street Pastors Network, and Lynn Green from the Baptist Union of Great Britain, among others.

The service was initiated by Churches Together in Britain and Ireland, an ecumenical organisation that encourages Christian unity, and includes churches of all traditions and denominations.

Keep the Faith

SALVATIONIST

‘CHRIST, BE OUR LIGHT’ TOPS HYMN DOWNLOAD LIST The hymn ‘Christ, Be Our Light’ by ... Bernadette Farrell was the most popular hymn downloaded for use in Protestant churches in Europe during the past year, a licence platform reported...

The other hymns topping the list, provided by One License, were: ‘All Are Welcome’ by Marty Haugen; ‘Here I Am, Lord’ by Dan Schutte (two versions); and ‘Wait for the Lord’ by Jacques Berthier, of the Taizé community…

The list, comprising largely works

by Roman Catholic composers, illustrates the popularity outside the Roman Catholic Church itself of hymns composed in the wake of the Vatican II liturgical reforms.

Demand for hymns from ... licence platforms has increased heavily during the past year, as churches sought to live-stream services during lockdown.

Church Times

EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford – 020 7367 4891

Premier

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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.

PROOFREADER Chris Horne

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Salvationist 29 May 2021

Premier

Churches and other places of worship are not just for the faithful but can play a vital role in our recovery from the pandemic, according to new research from the University of York.

More than 5,500 people, made up of non-church members, congregations and church leaders, took part in the survey between August 2020 and March this year.

It looked at the human cost of the pandemic when places of worship were closed and unable to play their usual role as crisis centres and places of comfort.

Dr Dee Dyas, who led the research team, told Premier…

‘I think many people who don’t normally go to church hadn’t realised what churches meant to them until it was all taken away in a moment. And that goes from young mums desperate for contact with others right through to older people who not only want social care, but also want to be able to go on volunteering…’

Dr Dyas said as we look forward to recovery it is vital to reinstate those activities and also increase them because the need is now greater.

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – 020 7367 4892 Melita Day-Lewis – 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight – 020 7367 4895 Louise Phillips – 020 7367 4896

Three in ten young people say wedding costs are a reason for not marrying, although 87 per cent want to.

The Marriage Foundation, a Christian organisation that encourages all people of all faiths and none to commit to each other, conducted the research, and said that the results suggest marriage has become a preserve of the middle class.

The study, Wedding Costs and the Marriage Gap, found that 29 per cent of young unmarried UK adults aged 18 to 30 say they would be more likely to get married if the typical wedding was cheaper.

Twenty-eight per cent of women and twenty-one per cent of men surveyed, who were in a relationship, cited ‘wedding cost’ as a reason why they were not currently married.

PLACES OF WORSHIP VITAL FOR PANDEMIC RECOVERY SAYS UNIVERSITY STUDY

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Staff are working from home and may not be contactable by phone or able to deal with non-electronic correspondence

COST OF WEDDINGS IS ONE REASON WHY COUPLES PUT OFF MARRYING

ISSN 2516-5909

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

THE VALUE OF BEING SEEN IN Genesis 16 we can read the story of Hagar, the servant of Abram’s wife, Sarai.

Unable to provide Abram with an heir, Sarai suggests that Abram sleep with Hagar to produce a child they can raise as their own.

Hagar becomes pregnant to Abram and enmity builds up between her and Sarai to the point where Hagar runs away. An angel of the Lord then appears to Hagar and advises her to return, which she does, and she gives birth to Ishmael.

While on the run, Hagar says to the angel, who was speaking on God’s behalf: ‘You are the God who sees me’ (v13). In Hebrew this name for God – ‘the God who sees me’ – is translated as ‘El Roi’. From memory, Hagar is the only person in the Bible to assign a name to God and this is the only time that this name appears in Scripture.

You might also recall that when Moses was called by God to lead the Israelites – at the site of a burning bush – God said to Moses: ‘I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt’ (Exodus 3:7).

Our God is not a distant or silent God, nor is he an idol made of stone or bronze.

He is a God who sees us and responds.

In this week’s issue, you can read Nicola Walmsley’s article about the God who watches over us, and she quotes Psalm 121 with its repetitive references to God doing precisely that.

Just as God sees us, so do those in the communities where we serve. Captain Timothy Lennox writes of the ‘exile’ of Dublin City Corps from their hall and says that there was a time when they ‘lacked visibility’ but have since been discovered by many people ‘looking for an evangelical church’. Note that word ‘looking’; it’s all about what we see.

He also says the corps loves ‘sharing in fellowship’, and that is the theme of Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts’ reflection. He writes: ‘If the Spirit of fellowship could create a people of perfect unity, love and mission partnership, the world would see a powerful witness to the reality of God.’ Did you note that? The world would ‘see’ a witness to God. He goes on to write that ‘God is revealed in the fellowship of his people’ and suggests that people can see God in us.

This notion is picked up in our article on Volunteers’ Week and in Emily Bright’s article about our heralds, who so faithfully sell the papers each week on our high streets. When people see Christians in action, they see something of God in the world.

Rachel Frost, the community mission facilitator at Buckhaven in Fife, said to Emily that, during lockdown, ‘our heralds greatly missed the conversations and engagement with the public, and the blessing that gave them’.

As our communities open up again and people move about more freely, we have the opportunity to be seen. Not for our own benefit or reward, but to reflect God into the lives of those we meet.

As you read this issue, I pray that you are challenged to be seen by those in your community as a true reflection of God’s love. That when people see you, they see something of God. The God who sees them – El Roi.

From the Editor-in-Chief Major Mal Davies

Quotes from the media

2

Message from the territorial commander

4

5 and 6

News Prayer matters

6

News feature 7 Emerge Pioneer Gathering reflects on revival

by Major Ruth Gray

Feature 8 and 9 Pushing the papers post-pandemic

by Emily Bright

Preview Live life to the full

10 and 11

by Liz Hall

We are The Salvation Army 12 and 13 We’re scattered and gathered says Captain Timothy Lennox

Thinkaloud Jesus the poet?

14

by John Coutts

Reflection God sees you

15

by Nicola Walmsley

Bible study Let go and let God!

16 and 17

by Captain Ben Ellis

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17

by Major Lynda Levis

Preview Lending a youthful hand

18

by Matt Perkins and Wendy Wasels

Fundraising Best foot forward

19

Reflection More than coffee and biscuits

20

by Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

Preview A Burning in My Bones

21

by Winn Collier

Poets’ corner Announcements

21 22 and 23

Adverts

23

Quiz

24

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated

Salvationist 29 May 2021

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A MESSAGE FROM THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

Are you listening?

I

WANT to share with you a verse that William Booth penned many years ago, which is particularly appropriate for us in this time after Pentecost: ‘Thou Christ of burning, cleansing flame,/ Send the fire!/ Thy blood-bought gift today we claim,/ Send the fire!/ Look down and see this waiting host,/ Give us the promised Holy Ghost./ We want another Pentecost,/ Send the fire!’ (SASB 326).

It is an interesting question as to whether William Booth was actually right to pen those words: ‘We want another Pentecost.’ You see, Pentecost, and the gift of the Holy Spirit, was a unique, one-off occasion for the disciples and the whole world. The wonderful thing is that the Holy Spirit, since that day, has never been withdrawn. Jesus asked Father God to give the Holy Spirit to ‘be with you for ever’ (John 14:16). It seems to me that God never takes back his gifts. They are not loans. So, in one sense, William Booth’s words – ‘we want another Pentecost’ – were not quite right. In another sense, the Founder was absolutely right and we know what he meant.

The Salvation Army and all individuals within it need a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit – and, dare I say it, now more than ever. There is no doubt that, in 4

Salvationist 29 May 2021

most parts of the UKI Territory, things seem to have considerably improved with respect to the Covid-19 pandemic.

But I’m very conscious that, in some parts of the territory, there are still serious concerns.

And, of course, we’re so troubled for so many other parts of the world where people are enduring great challenges as the pandemic continues.

However, in the main, we here are in a better place, and I thank God for that, for the prayers being answered, for the advances in science and the rollout of Covid-19 vaccinations.

And, above all, I thank God for his faithfulness. However, I believe The Salvation Army is entering another critical phase POF UIBU requires bold, Spirit-led engagement at every expression of Salvationism, from our Lifehouses and Older PeoplehT Services to our Early Years and community work and even our administrative services.

And, of course, within our corps, centres and church fellowships.

The danger we face is one that Gill and I have spoken of over the past couple of weeks, of missing the Goddesired appointments and opportunities that have emerged, and continue to emerge, as a consequence of the lessons learnt over the past 15 months.

There is a danger that we chase our own hopes and expectations, rather than waiting upon God, listening to what he is saying, and then venturing forward with renewed purpose, the Spirit of God empowering and enabling us.

In Revelation 2 and 3, words of Jesus are recorded to the seven churches at Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.

Those words, as given to John in a vision, are well worth a visit. Maybe there are some parallel words for your corps or for you as an individual. They

read: ‘Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches’ (2:7).

It’s a massive question. What does the Spirit say to the Church at this time? And what does the Spirit say to you? We all need an answer to that question. We all need to be praying for a fresh outpouring of God’s Spirit upon his people. We all need to be listening.

As we listen, I’m sure we will hear that we must love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. I’m sure we will hear that we need to love and be forgiving to one another. I’m sure we will hear a call to offer ourselves afresh to God, that he may fill us anew with his Spirit.

As we listen, I’m sure we will hear the need to affirm at least one other thing, which I spoke about in the first message I gave at the start of the pandemic. The one-word sermon, if you like, of William Booth: the word ‘others’. That we would prioritise the needs of others and show mercy and compassion, that we would be ever outreaching and welcoming in the name of Jesus. That the Spirit of God would be upon us, pointing us to preach good news, to proclaim freedom for those bound by all sorts of things, to open blind eyes, to bind broken hearts and to see broken people being made whole. That’s the kind of Salvation Army I want to be a part of, don’t you?

The last verse of Booth’s song simply says this: ‘To make our weak hearts strong and brave,/ Send the fire!/ To live a dying world to save,/ Send the fire!/ O see us on thy altar lay,/ Our lives, our all, this very day,/ To crown the offering now we pray,/ Send the fire!’

In this time after Pentecost, as we make our plans to go forward from these days of pandemic, to those words of the Founder I say, Amen.

ANTHONY COTTERILL COMMISSIONER TERRITORIAL COMMANDER O This

message is based on a video that can be viewed at facebook.com/ SalvationistOnline or youtube.com/ salvationarmyvideo

NEWS

COMMUNITY

INTERNATIONAL

International leaders conclude virtual conversations IHQ

Computer suite keeps young people connected CROSSROADS THE Lifehouse in Accrington, which provides supported accommodation for young people aged 16 to 21, is helping residents stay connected with family and friends after upgrading its computer suite.

Service Manager Sam Harrison said: ‘We know how important it is for our young people to keep in touch. Many are in college and so also need good wifi for online learning and homework, as well as using social media.

‘Some of our young people have been through traumatic experiences and, as asylum seekers, may have travelled to this country with others who are like family to them, so it’s important they can be in contact with them, as well as family in their home countries.

‘Before the refurbishment, the equipment

was not fit for purpose, it was very old-fashioned and the internet connection was poor.’

Thanks to donations, staff members and residents were able to repaint the room, purchase new equipment and upgrade the wifi.

Sam continued: ‘We wanted them to be involved in the process and have ownership over it. We have five new computers, new chairs and a family member of one of our staff members reupholstered the dividers between computers. Residents have told us they are really happy. They’ve been blown away by it.’

The improved facilities can also help the residents contact external support, such as social services and solicitors, as well as support them with employment, training and CV writing.

‘It’s thanks to kind donations that The Salvation Army can provide something like this, which makes life a little easier for our young people,’ added Sam. ‘We’re really grateful.’ – AR

PRESENTATIONS ARMÁDA SPÁSY CHATHAM Following a three-month Zoom discipleship course and a written test on Basic Christianity and Faith, Rebeka, Ester, Silvia, Klaudia, Michaela, Isabela, Valeria, Kareen and Margita received certificates. During lockdown the youth met twice weekly on Zoom. They testified to their faith growing during this time. Their leaders, Radoslav and Valerie, have devoted much time to pastoral care and discipleship. – KB

THE International Leaders Virtual Conversations (ILVC), which were held online over several months, have concluded.

Participating leaders from every Salvation Army territory and command said it was a wonderful opportunity to speak together and to discuss matters of significance.

On 15 March, General Brian Peddle spoke with leaders in three different gatherings – to allow for time zones – to share final thoughts and consider the many responses received from the smaller group discussions.

This provided insightful and discerning affirmations and considerations, which will be further examined by the General’s Council.

The international agenda focused on leadership of the Army and the Movement’s succession plan, along with gender equity.

Leaders also discussed human sexuality, with a broad engagement around the Army’s service without discrimination. The General plans to comment further on the conference in a communication to all Salvationists in the near future.

All ILVC delegates gathered virtually to share in final worship and prayer forums on 8 April under the leadership of the General and Chief of the Staff Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham, supported by Commissioners Rosalie Peddle and Bronwyn Buckingham.

This was a time of rich prayer in which the leaders from around the world expressed their heartfelt praise and thanksgiving to God for his faithfulness and earnestly sought his continued wisdom and guidance.

As leaders expressed their thanks for this opportunity, there was a spirit of unity and hope as they moved forward together in ministry and service.

The prayer support of Salvationists and friends around the world is requested for all international, territorial and command leaders as they consider the best way forward. – JG 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.

Salvationist 29 May 2021

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NEWS

CHAPLAINCY FOCUS

by Territorial Chaplaincy Officer Major Graham Daniels

FUNDRAISING Graham, Daniel, Sam, Andrew and Sean raise more than £400 by trekking from Prescot Corps to Southport Corps as part of the Captain Tom 100 challenge

ARMY NEWS

Army responds to immigration plan UK THE Salvation Army has welcomed the government’s commitment to improving support for modern slavery survivors in the new plan for immigration.

The Army has been working to support victims of modern slavery for nearly 10 years. Thanks to the Victim Care Contract, and the incredible support of donors, it has helped thousands of traumatised people break free. The Army has acknowledged the government’s new plan for immigration as an opportunity to build on this work.

It has also made detailed recommendations to prevent elements of the plan undermining the progress made so far.

The current draft of the plan outlines reforms that could make it more difficult for survivors of slavery to access the support available to them. While the changes are proposed to avoid exploitation of the system, the Army is concerned this would allow genuine survivors to fall back into the hands of their abusers.

The current system is stretched and elements of it are not working as well as they could be. The Army believes that improving the current system would be more effective and genuinely raise the level of support it is able to offer survivors. – AR

COMMUNITY KEIGHLEY Volunteers from the local Ahmadiyya Muslim Association donated essential goods, such as long-life milk, potatoes, rice pudding and baked beans, to the corps. Dr Haseeb Rahman, leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association Keighley, told the Telegraph & Argus: ‘We wanted to play our part… to provide assistance to those in need.’ – AR LEEDS The Salvation Army has received tonnes of clothing, textile and bric-a-brac from generous customers through a ‘drop and shop’ site at an Asda sustainability store in Middleton. Salvation Army shops have been temporarily closed due to lockdown restrictions, but Asda shoppers have supported the church and charity by donating more than 220 tonnes of unwanted items to the donation point. In 2020, Asda collected more than 8,100 tonnes of unwanted textiles from the recycling banks in its store car parks, which have raised valuable funds for The Salvation Army and other charities. – AR 6

Salvationist 29 May 2021

SATURDAY 29 MAY – NEEDING PRAYER In a section of his letter to the Colossian church Paul writes: ‘Pray, and keep praying. Be alert and thankful when you pray. And while you are at it, add us to your prayers. Pray that God would open doors and windows and minds and eyes and hearts for the word so we can go on telling the mystery of the Anointed, for this is exactly why I am currently imprisoned. Pray that I will proclaim this message clearly and fearlessly as I should’ (Colossians 4:2–4 The Voice).

SUNDAY 30 MAY – TRUSTING PROMISES The promise of God’s presence is key to the mission and ministry of the chaplain. That God is with us strengthens every interaction and inspires every contact. Please pray this familiar prayer by Dallas Willard: ‘Dear Father always near us, may your name be treasured and loved, may your rule be completed in us – may your will be done here on Earth in just the way it is done in Heaven. Give us today the things we need today, and forgive us our sins and impositions on you as we are forgiving all who in any way offend us. Please don’t put us through trials but deliver us from everything bad. Because you are the one in charge, and you have all the power, and the glory too is all yours – forever – which is just the way we want it!’

SCRIPTURE FOCUS: WAITING

by Resource Co-ordinator Stephanie Chagas-Bijl (THQ) MONDAY 31 MAY – PSALM 130: 5 AND 6 Lord, thank you for the truths that are found in your word – for the fact that we can trust in you, no matter what is happening around us.

Help us to be alert to what you are doing, looking out, faithfully keeping watch. Speak to us today. Amen.

TUESDAY 1 JUNE – HABAKKUK 2:3 Lord Jesus, so many prophets of old waited for your coming. They believed without seeing. What are you saying to us in these present times? How do you want to work out your plans in and through us?

May you find us available and obedient. Amen.

WEDNESDAY 2 JUNE – PSALM 27:14 Lord, there are times when everything feels too much: grief, death, pain, uncertainty, loneliness. But you told us to take heart for you have overcome these things, you have overcome the world. Give us grace, healing, wisdom, boldness and stamina for today. Amen.

THURSDAY 3 JUNE – ISAIAH 30:18 ‘Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you; therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him’ (Isaiah 30:18 Revised Standard Version).

Father God, these words of Isaiah help us understand the simple fact that you are always available, always ready to show your love. Help us to use this time you have given us wisely, to draw nearer to you, to spend time with you. Amen.

FRIDAY 4 JUNE – MICAH 7:7 ‘But as for me, I will look to the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me’ (Micah 7:7 RSV). Lord, as we pray for those who are sick, who are struggling financially, who are isolated, it feels overwhelming that you would hear us. Turn your face towards us as we look to you. Do not abandon us during this time of great need.

Increase our faith to believe that all is in your hands. Amen.

O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources Salvationist Salvationist1310March April 2021

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NEWS FEATURE

Emerge Pioneer Gathering reflects on revival THQ WHILE unable to take place in person, this year’s Emerge Pioneer Gathering took place over Zoom, writes Major Ruth Gray (Clapton). The weekend enabled delegates to recommit to living in the resurrection power of Jesus as they emerge from the pandemic, secure in the truth that the tomb has led to resurrection.

The event began with stories of transformation. Solus, a friend of Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill, has been housed after meeting the TC on the streets during lockdown.

Beth Gibson shared how Regent Hall is waiting on God for ‘what next’. Cadet Marie Karickova spoke about how many more Roma cadets would follow her to William Booth College and how her first appointment was surely of God. Lyndall Bywater reminded everyone that revival comes in brokenness – resurrection comes from the tomb.

Then, as resurrection people, prayers were shared for transformation in neighbourhoods, the country and the world.

Alan Hirsch reminded everyone that ‘it’s all about Jesus’ and a session themed Guest and Host was led by Tony Daniels, territorial director of community services.

Tony illustrated how the banquet in Isaiah 25 is reimagined by Jesus in the New Testament as an inclusive invitation. All people are invited to God’s table because of his amazing grace.

Michael Beck then spoke about contextual intelligence. He explained that ‘tomb time’ is a place of disorientation on the edge of chaos – between stagnation and innovation. But in this state of lament is a space of stillness where God can work.

He shared stories of contextual church, including an 81-year-old dog walker who planted a church in the park with other dog walkers, and a church in a tattoo parlour.

Mohan Seevaratnam’s session on intercultural church planting in a local context spoke about the desire and willingness to cross cultural barriers.

Mohan commented: ‘You don’t have to leave your culture at the door of the church.’

The session concluded with multicultural worship.

WBC Principal Lieut-Colonel Judith Payne’s session was about healthy leadership. In a world that feels broken, people’s vulnerabilities have been exposed more than ever before and communities feel unbalanced. Health and wellbeing have come to the forefront, and issues of mental and physical ill-health and poverty in relationships and families can no longer be ignored.

Judith encouraged delegates to ask themselves: ‘How might my healthy living proclaim God’s Kingdom and express

It enabled delegates to recommit to living in the resurrection power of Jesus prophetic ministry in a sick world?’ When Jesus came to Earth, it was to bring life in all its fullness. He taught people to manifest this ‘abundant life’ Kingdom in a sick world.

This is the disciple’s prophetic mission of living out a visibly different Kingdom life.

This does not mean that the believer’s life has to be perfect – real people are but cracked pots through which the glory of God shines. However, for his Kingdom’s sake, God will use human brokenness to bring healing, redemption and reconciliation to a broken world. Beauty born out of brokenness – the tomb becomes the resurrection.

Rewilding was the focus of a session led by Steve Aisthorpe. The concept of rewilding is a metaphor for what God is doing in the Church – a compelling call to rediscover Jesus, follow him and see what emerges. Delegates were encouraged to ask questions: What are some preconceived ideas about what church should look like?

What needs to be unlearnt?

Everyone was challenged to consider the difference between tradition and traditionalism. It was suggested that the former is truth passed on from faith history and should be protected and the latter is an invasive species, anchoring the Church in the past.

The final speakers were Naar MfundisiHolloway, who spoke on Authentic Listening, and Danielle Strickland, who talked about The Prophetic Voice.

Delegates were reminded of the final prayer of Samson as he surrendered himself to God. Everyone was asked to consider whether it was time to give themselves away to other churches, other networks or other people. Delegates were reminded that, if the tomb could not contain Jesus, then their Jesus dreams could be realised. By listening to God, neighbour and community, they were encouraged to go and live the good news in the resurrection power of Jesus as they emerge from the pandemic, from tomb to resurrection.

Alongside the main sessions, there were several ‘how to’ sessions on mindfulness, Godly Play, Core Recovery Church, sport and wellbeing, podcasting, and coaching and support.

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FEATURE I Herald’s Challenge

Pushing the papers post-pandemic War Cry staff writer Emily Bright finds out how corps are consolidating their outreach ministry as restrictions ease David from Eccles

A

S lockdown eases, what’s next for corps? This is a question that many Salvationists will be pondering over the coming months. But others are already on the case, seeking to reach their community through reinstating or increasing their paper orders. A number of corps officers got in touch to share what they are doing.

Rachel Frost, the community mission

8

Graham from Swanage

facilitator at Buckhaven in Fife, reveals what they are doing with their extra issues: ‘The corps decided to increase our paper order a few months ago to include the young people who attended our kids clubs. These young folk now receive a Kids Alive! in their weekly packs and have particularly enjoyed the puzzles and the stories.’

In addition, Rachel says that they are keen to consolidate this with paper sales streets: ‘The corps has, for on the stree years, many years s had a thriving paper ministry in neighbouring Leven. lockdown prohibited this When lock k ministry ffrom r happening, our missed the conversations heralds m engagement with the public, and eng ga and the e blessing that gave them.

‘With h the exception of a brief last spell la a year, we have not able to participate in the been a paperr ministry on the streets since e March 2020, so are very much muc ch h looking forward to recommencing.

We have reco o found fou n that there is a renewed interest in the ren n Salvation Army publications Sa a and an n quite often we’ll run out of papers while o participating in the ministry, something that rarely happened before the pandemic.’

Keith from Buckhaven

Swanage Corps in Dorset has also increased their paper order in recent weeks, as Major Katrina Greetham explains: ‘We are planning to resume street sales in our two normal weekly locations and Graham, our War Cry herald, is looking forward to getting back to serving his people.

‘During lockdown Graham has delivered copies each week to the regular customers who live within walking distance. That means he has kept in contact, even if it is just by putting the papers through their letterboxes – and all while following national guidelines. He has walked many miles over these months to do this and sees this very much as his ministry. Graham is very well known in our communities.’

TAKE PART IN THE HERALD’S CHALLENGE Here are a few ideas to get your corps paper ministry started: DELIVER PAPERS THROUGH YOUR NEIGHBOUR’S DOOR Why not drop off copies of War Cry through people’s letterboxes as part of a walk? Equally, if you know that a young family lives there, why not give them a copy of Kids Alive! for their children to enjoy?

MAKE A CARE PACKAGE This year has taken an emotional toll on all of us.

Nothing shows how much you care like sending something in the post. Wrap up a few tasty treats or other goodies along with a Kids Alive! or War Cry. BECOME A HERALD One important change this year is that while the War Cry’s wholesale price to corps and their members remains the same (20p), the cover price is increasing to 50p, meaning the profit from selling issues goes to corps. Kids Alive! already operates on this basis. So, investing in the Herald’s Challenge is investing in your corps. Why not volunteer an hour a week to sell papers on the street, meet members of your community and raise money for your corps?

Another devoted herald is David McGovern from Eccles Corps in Greater Manchester, which also recently increased its paper order. Territorial Envoy Sarah Jones, who took up her post in November, says that David’s reputation precedes him. ‘He has been doing it for years and years and years. The officers who were here before me said: “He’d always be the best collector of papers and is very popular within this area.”

‘David did a day just before Christmas, during the month where the shops were open in Greater Manchester. He went back to the streets and people were saying: “Where have you been? We’ve missed you!” He’s just a lovely guy, committed to God and to the papers, and has raised loads of money. He’s very reliable and is going out on to the streets on Thursdays again.’

Many more corps and heralds have worked tirelessly to support the Army’s paper ministry during the pandemic. As the Covid-19 restrictions gradually ease and public places start to open up again, the Publishing Department is looking to consolidate these efforts with the launch of the Herald’s Challenge. The challenge encourages corps to come up with new and creative ways of selling and distributing more papers. It will start on 10 July and run throughout the month.

Rachel from Buckhaven

O Order

any extra copies by calling SP&S on 01933 445 445 or emailing subscriptions@satcol.org.uk by Friday 18 June at the latest for delivery by 10 July

FOOD BANK OUTREACH Include the papers with food parcels distributed at a Salvation Army food bank.

HOSPITAL READING Drop off papers at a hospital or doctor’s waiting room. There’s nothing worse than waiting for a diagnosis or hanging around hospital while a loved one is ill. Bring people a welcome distraction with the papers.

KIDS CLUBS Distribute copies to your kids clubs – many corps are already doing this, but why not redouble your efforts by giving two copies to each child, so they can give one to a friend?

PUBLIC TRANSPORT Why not leave a free copy of War Cry or Kids Alive! on a bus or train when you return to your daily commute?

LOCAL VENUES Give some copies to local cafés, libraries or shops. A member of Sacriston Corps in County Durham went to nearby supermarkets and the post office to ask if they would display free copies of Kids Alive! on their counters. They agreed and the corps began giving away 200 copies a week. This new initiative was part of a free 12-week trial from SP&S. For any new initiative, corps can have access to this free trial.

Email subscriptions@satcol.org for more information.

Salvationist 29 May 2021

9

PREVIEW

Live life to the full Liz Hall explains why it’s important to pray for parent-and-toddler groups throughout June

T

HE Church is the leading national provider of parent-and-toddler groups, which offer supportive, safe, fun and welcoming environments for families and demonstrate God’s love at the heart of communities.

The National Month of Prayer for Toddler Groups, which takes place annually in June, encourages churches, individuals and toddler communities to pray for parent-and-toddler ministries across the UK. The prayer initiative was established by 1277 Make Them Count, a national network of church-based toddler groups.

The network takes its name from the fact that, on average, a child in the UK has 1,277 days between birth and starting nursery school education. It wants to make those 1,277 days count – for children, their families and the toddler groups that they attend.

Its mission is to empower and equip parent-and-toddler ministries and bring together representatives from Christian organisations and denominations to co-ordinate strategic thinking, signpost relevant resources, research and training events, and facilitate networking between practitioners. The Salvation Army is represented by Assistant Director of Family Ministries Deb Juster.

Most corps run a parent-and-toddler group or have run one in the past.

Statistics show that, after Sunday worship and music rehearsals, parentand-toddler groups are the most attended activity across the territory, with more than 100,000 people crossing an Army threshold to attend one.

During the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdowns many parentand-toddler teams pioneered ways to keep in touch with families linked to the corps through their parent-and-toddler groups and are looking forward to the challenges of ‘being open in real life again’, despite the paperwork and Covid-19 mitigations involved.

The missional impact of parent-andtoddler groups is huge. They provide a unique opportunity to build relationships with families at a very important stage in their lives. However, these groups are not always valued by churches and there are a few reasons for that.

Families attending parent-and-toddler groups might not attend worship on a Sunday, although many would say that The Salvation Army is their church because of what happens in the groups during the week. Preparing for a

parent-and-toddler group, including cleaning, moving furniture and storing resources and toys, can become the focus of a session rather than the beauty of being with people and building relationships. Some people assume that the focus is solely on children and don’t consider the family that comes with them – good ‘child care’ is provided but the parents become invisible.

There are many testimonies about the positive impact that parent-and-toddler groups have, with people sharing how welcome they feel in the groups, how grateful they are for those who kept in touch during the pandemic, and how they’re looking forward to being back together again.

A mother in Shipley said: ‘Please reopen! We need the toddler group, just to know we are not alone.’

Shelley from Horsham related how one mother without any faith, with whom she had stayed in touch during the lockdowns, ‘is now coming to listen to Bible stories’, and how another parent reflected: ‘I always thought we were just coming along to a playgroup, but since we haven’t been able to come, I have realised that it’s more than that.’

A parent who attends Get OWT!, an outdoor parent-and-toddler group at Middlesbrough Acklam (pictured left), described how the group was a lifeline, while others expressed thanks for the confidence and much-needed social interaction this outreach had provided.

Liz from Harold Hill, who visited families on their doorsteps after Zoom Babysong sessions, was greeted by children with the words: ‘Mum, it’s the lady from the laptop!’ ‘These doorstep visits have been so worthwhile for the team as well as the families,’ she said.

‘My little boy now won’t eat his dinner until we have sung that song [“Thank You for the World So Sweet”],’ said a mother from Falmouth, while another from Edinburgh Gorgie shared: ‘This group is a lifeline. I might not have been around if I hadn’t had your support.’

This year the National Month of Prayer’s theme is Live Life to the Full, based on John 10:10, with an emphasis on praying for parent-and-toddler groups to be places where children and adults can flourish as they experience the love and hospitality of God. Resources are available on the 1277

Make It Count Facebook page, where people can share ideas, ask questions, have discussions and encourage one another in an ecumenical space. It is easy to join and a great way of keeping in touch. The resources will also be posted across the Family Ministries Unit’s social media platforms.

Because The Salvation Army has some different ways of working from other churches, the Family Ministries Unit has created a Facebook group for Army parent-and-toddler group leaders.

Having a space to facilitate conversations is crucial, especially at a time when group leaders, teams, corps and families are working out the best and safest way to provide and engage in a truly welcoming parent-and-toddler

Falmouth toddlers in the park ministry. We know that the Facebook group will generate ideas and resources that we haven’t even thought about yet.

Information about the National Month of Prayer for Toddler Groups will be shared in the weekly bulletin and through conversations with divisional personnel and our outreach mission partner.

Being aware that there are many emotions to contend with in these days, the Family Ministries Unit will also make space for people to engage in prayer with other parent-and-toddler group leaders across the territory – to rest, reflect, refresh, renew and reconnect.

We will gather on Zoom on Tuesdays at 11am for about 45 minutes from 8 to 29 June. The sessions will be recorded for those who can’t attend live and will be available on request.

We look forward to seeing the impact of this wave of prayer.

For more information email familyministries@salvationarmy.org.uk

O

LIZ IS DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF FAMILY MINISTRIES Salvationist 29 May 2021

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We’re scattered and ga says Dublin City corps officer Captain Timothy Lennox

Corps folk meet in Phoenix Park, Dublin

F

OR eight years, Dublin City Corps had an exilic experience. Our building on Abbey Street had been the home of The Salvation Army in the heart of Dublin for 125 years. But with the building in a state of disrepair, unfit for purpose and condemned, the corps was forced to leave.

We were, like the Israelites taken to Babylon, a church experiencing an exile.

There was a rootlessness for a long time – we had no home, long-held programmes and activities ceased and we lacked visibility. The culture of the corps was disrupted. During that time many of the corps family moved on. It seemed almost inevitable that the corps would soon close.

But then something began to happen!

God started sending new people – specifically, people who were migrating to Ireland from elsewhere in the world.

There has been a steady growth in corps membership, more than half of them would-be Salvationists looking to connect with a corps. Others were Christians looking for an evangelical church. Some were trying to find a community to belong to.

Today, Dublin City Corps is one of two corps in the Republic of Ireland. We are 12

Salvationist 29 May 2021

a youthful, multicultural city centre church encompassing 16 nationalities from every continent on Earth, excluding Antarctica. Ninety-five per cent of us are migrants to this beautiful country.

We believe one of the reasons our corps has developed in this manner is due to our experience. Our story, our rootlessness, mirrored the disorientation that many people experience when they move to another country. The loss of our home, the departure of former corps members and the disconnect from the previous culture of the corps created space for this new growth.

We all had a shared experience that was reflected in the corps itself. We became the family to one another that each had left behind when moving to this land. We each had a pivotal role to play in supporting and building up one another. Each of us could bring unique cultural gifts and insights as we dreamt about what God had in store for us. We learnt together how to sing the Lord’s song in Ireland.

In all of this, some wonderful distinctives have emerged from our corps family.

We love sharing in fellowship. Having been in appointments previously where

we locked up the hall 30 minutes after the meeting, we were shocked in the early months in Dublin to find that we struggled to get people to leave! The Dublin City family love hanging out together for one, two or three hours after the meeting.

We love praising God together. We love to sing, shout, make a loud noise, dance and lift high the name of Jesus.

Being such a diverse family means we all grew up with different music – so people are always learning new songs.

Everybody gives it a go. I particularly love listening when we sing well-known anthems such as ‘O God of Burning, Cleansing Flame’ and start to hear the lyrics in multiple languages.

We love stories, especially testimonies.

The mic stand is at the front and, one by one, people will give an account of what God is doing, how they have been blessed, or share a prayer request. And people keep coming. Each story is greeted with a resounding ‘Amen!’ or applause. What encouragement!

We love inviting and welcoming people into the family. The corps folk go to great lengths to invite neighbours, friends and colleagues to church. This is especially true when we have meals. I love that the corps family so openly and

athered

There are hundreds of corps and centres up and down the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland, but what makes them The Salvation Army?

In this series, Salvationist discovers just that

Dublin City Corps leadership team

Women’s fellowship

Members of the corps family gladly invites others to come and be part of our community.

We love the internationalism of The Salvation Army. One joy is that we hear of what is going on all over the Army world. Salvation stories from Zimbabwe, miraculous accounts of healing in the Philippines, creative

outreach in Ukraine, prayers for persecuted Christians in India and relief efforts in Congo. During the pandemic we have had people worldwide connect with us via Zoom and Facebook.

I realise that this is a lot of focus on our Sunday gatherings. We are very much a church that gathers and

scatters. This is the dynamic of a city centre church. We all travel to gather.

Our corps family lives across seven counties. We are all living and working in different communities.

This very much shapes our thinking around mission and discipleship. It is not about running activities at the corps during the week, but equipping one another to serve and evangelise where we live and work.

In January 2020 we opened a new corps building, complete with a chapel, community space and coffee shop. It was amazing to witness the joy and pride as the corps family marched through the streets of Dublin and celebrated the goodness of God. We had a home and we looked forward to laying down deep roots in the heart of the city as a family.

Two months later, the coronavirus pandemic rocked us all. This has been a deeply unsettling time for us. The restrictions in Ireland have been tighter for longer than in the UK. For a long time, travel here was restricted to a maximum of 5km. Because we are scattered across many counties, even the practicality of doorstep visits has been unworkable and we have been limited solely to online connections, such as Zoom and Facebook.

The only exception was last summer, when restrictions eased a little. We gathered a couple of times at the cross in Phoenix Park. There was something special about gathering outside, at the foot of a 35-metre-high cross with our picnics and the blazing sun overhead.

We also enrolled two soldiers over Facebook Live – who have since returned to Ukraine – and two junior soldiers in their home at Wexford. Each of these was cause for great joy.

The Irish government recently allowed church services to resume.

After being scattered for more than a year, we are hopeful and expectant as we seek to gather together again.

Photos and events described on these pages may have occurred before current coronavirus lockdown and safety guidelines

Salvationist 29 May 2021

13

Thinkalou d

by John Coutt

s

HE Lord Jessus has ma any titles.

Mess Me ssia iah. ia h Pro h. roph phet et. Prie et est st.. Kiing g.

Bu ut what about Poet? If poettry is de is ef ned as rhythmic speech, there efin is ple enty to be found in his tea each chin ch in ng. g ‘Ble less ssed are the poor oor in spi pirit, for th fo thei th eirs is th the e King gdo d m of o Hea eave ven n.

Blessed d ar a e tho ose who o mo mour urn, n, for theyy will be comf mffor or te t d’ (Ma M tthew w 5:3 an a d 4)).

Here is an example e of parallllel elis ism, is m a form fo r at typical of psalm ms and anc ms ncie ient nt Hebr bre ew poe o trr y in i gene eral, wher ere er e the e second line of a sente enc nce e co comparres with, contrasts with h or developss the thiinking of the e first.

Some speech pa att tter erns ns are more comp plicated. Our Lord seems to have ha ve fav avoured three-liners rs: ‘Ask, and it willl be given to you; search, and you wi w ll find; knock, and the e door do or wililll be op pened forr you’ (Mat (M atth thew ew 7:7).

It is clear that much of Jesus’ teaching relies on rhythm, but u does it show evidence of the poetic imaginattio ion: n: the h gift to notice an and d share e ne new insigh ghts ts, ‘t ‘to o se see a world in n a grain of sand’, as Willlia iam m Blake e said? The answer has to be yes.

‘Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yett I telll y u, eve yo ve en So S lomo on in all his glo ory was n t cllothed like no e one of th hes ese’ e (Ma e’ M tthe hew he w 6:28 6: 28 and 29). So S lomon’s sh howy sp plend le end n ou o r is praised and criticised in the Bible, bu ut it took our Lord d’s ins spi pira rati ra atition o to contra on ast st Solomon’ss su upe perfficial bling wi with th h the e simple e rea ealility ty of God’ss creation.

IN SEARCH OF THE ORIGI G NAL T da To ay we e study Jes sus u ’ word r s thro th hro roug ugh gh th t e cloudy dy lens of tra ransla ation o . Th on The e Gosp Go osp s el es record his s teaching g in n Gre eek ek,, bu butt hi hs native ve e tongue wa was Aramaicc – a la anguage e re elated la d to He eb brew and Arab abic. Fr F agment nts ts pop up p in n the Gosp sp pel e s now an nd again, such ch as ‘talilith th ha cumi’ (M (Mar arkk 5 5:41 1 Ne ew King Ki ing Jame es Version) – which means ‘littltle es e girl, ge et up’ – and ‘you cannot serve God and d mammon’ (Matthew 6:24 NKJV) – mƗmǀnƗ is Aramaic for ‘riches’. But can we go further and recover what he actually said?

In 1925 the Oxford scholar CF Burney 14

Salvationist 29 May 2021

published The Poetry of Our Lord, which includes es an attemp pt to t tra ransla late te Jesu Je sus’ su s wor s’ ords dss bacck into their he r ori riginal form fo rm. It is co conjecture re,, bu re but much more than guesswork. Bu Burney ey’s rendering of the Lord’s pray yer (Matthew 6:9–13) includ udes ess stres esse sess to to c onve veyy th t e rh rhyt ythm of the e ori rigi gin gi nal.

Ou Fá Our Fáth t er in th n He Heáv á en – Hállowed d be thyy ná náme Thyy Kí Th K ng ngdo dom cóme – thy wíl í l be b dóne Ás in th the heávens – só on Eárth.

Our dáily br breá eád eá d gí gívve us todáy A d fo An forg rgííve us our déb rg é ts – as we forg fo rgííve our débtors A d leád us not into temptátion – An but delíver us from évil.

Burney ca alllss the e Ara ramaic mai ver ersi si ‘a si sion a litttle l poem oe em or o hymn ymn co ym cons nsis isti t ng of tw ti t wo four fo ur-b ur --b bea e t th thre re eee-liline ne verrses’ se ess’’ and add ddss:: ‘We se ‘W s e at onc ncce wh hat a an ai a d th he rhyt rh ythmiical a for o m iss in asssi s st stin iin ng th he m mo me mory ry.’.’ ry New Ne w Test Test Te stam amen e t sc en cho hola l r Joac la Jo oac chi hm Jere Je remi mias as s agr gree eess th ee that att the poe o titicc st s yylle of o Jesus’ teaching is s mea ant to re ein info f rce his message. Three-beat line es such as ‘foxes s have ha ve hol oles es,, an and d bi bird rdss of o the air hav ave e nes nests; but th he So Son n of Man ha as s now whe here re to o la layy hi hiss he head’ (Matthew 8:20) ser e ve ‘to o drive rive home important sayings and ma axims’, he says.

ALLITERATION, RHYME AND LAMENT Jeremias goes on to identify other poetic skills, noting that our Lord sometimes used alliteration. Take this saying: ‘There

will w ill be mo more r joy in He re eaven av ven over one sinn si nner nn err who repen ep nts ep t ’ (Lu uke 15 uk 15:7). In Arramaiic th t e wo word rdss ‘joy rd ‘jjoy oy’ y’, ‘on one’ and ‘si sinn nner’ alll be al bega g n with the throaty y ‘ch ch’’ so sou und h ard he d in the e cor orrect pro onunc nu cia atitio on of ‘L Loc och h Lo Lomo mond d’. How ow’s th hat for emp phasis!

And An d th then en the en ere re’s rhy hyme me. Je J re rem mias finds s on ne ex e am a ple in his Ara ram maic re etr tran a sl an s ation of Luke 12::33. Here’ es my dog oggerel at attempt at re enderin ng the rhyme back ck into English: ‘Se S ll your g ods and give them away. Get go yo ourse elv lves purses that never decay.’

Most mov Mo ovin ing of all is our Lord’s use e of the h lam ament m fo orm, used in mour urrn ng th urni he dead. d.. Three bea ats s in n the he firrst lin ne are followed byy two in n th he se he ec cond. He ha ad heard it chan nte ted d byy children n sulk lking in the he market ma rk ke ett pllace ce e: ‘W We play ayed ed d the h flutte for fo or yo ou, and you u did not o dancce; we waile wa illed, ed an nd you did not weep p’ (L ( uk uke e 7:32 3 ). And d he used it again, in gr grim im reality, as he spoke to the ‘daughters of Jerusalem’ on the way to the cross: ‘For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it iss dr d y? y ’ ((L Lu ukke 23 23:3 : 1) 1.

A PRACTICAL POET Like Li ke e Old d Tes esta tament pro rophetts before e him hi m,, Jes e u us s used me melo lodi lo d ou di us la ang nguage e a d rhyt an rh hyytthm hmic icc spe p ec ech h to t teach h in a me m emo emo mora ora r ble le st styl yle. e. He wa wass a true e poe o t, ob o bserv se errvvin in g m ma any preci re ecious de dettaills of dai aily l liivi v in ng g and d usiing the h m to exxpress etternal trrutths hs abo bout utt God and the he goo o d news ws.

No won onde der ‘the co de om mmo mon pe eo op ple e hea ard d him gladly’ (Mark 12 2:3 :37 7 NK KJJV V ).

JOHN IS A SOLDIER AT STIRLING O Bible verses are from the New Revised Standard Version, Anglicised unless stated otherwise.

REF RE FL L LEC ECTI EC TION TION ON REFLECTION

God sees you Nicola Walmsley reminds us that God watches over our lives

S

PRING is a time of new life and hope. Newborn lambs herald the season’s arrival, along with banks of beautiful white snowdrops, jewelcoloured crocuses and sunny daffodils.

Birds pair up, build nests and fill the air with their songs. It is a lovely season after the long, bleak winter. The days get longer and milder, although some days have a chilly edge, which means our central heating may get flicked on mid-morning if we are sat working from home. There is an expectation of sunnier days.

This year spring came as lockdown restrictions were easing again after a year of the coronavirus pandemic. It had been an arduous 12 months, but the thought of reuniting with family, friends and loved ones heartened many. There was the hope of some form of normality returning. As summer approaches that hope is becoming a reality.

I wonder if you have felt disheartened that this has arrived a little too late. Many of us have endured painful separations from loved ones, precious time lost that cannot be recovered. Perhaps income or employment have been lost or, even more tragic, you have been bereaved of loved ones. Maybe you are someone who feels forgotten, discouraged, disappointed, fearful of the future or even invisible. But you are not invisible – God sees you!

May these words of Scripture bring comfort and renewed hope: ‘Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered’ (Matthew 10:29 and 30).

‘He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart’ (Psalm 91:4).

Psalm 121 tells us that God sees us: ‘He who watches over you will not

slumber... The Lord watches over you – the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm – he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and for evermore’ (vv3–8).

The book of Hebrews reminds us that our hope is like ‘an anchor for the soul, firm and secure’ (6:19). We must never let go of it: ‘Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful’ (10:23).

Are you anchored to the rock, safe and secure? Are you covered by his feathers, sheltering under his wings? He is ‘our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble’ (Psalm 46:1). When all around seems like shifting sands, God cannot be shaken. Hold fast to him because he is faithful. He sees you!

A year after the beginning of the first lockdown on 23 March I would have been celebrating my brother’s 57th birthday. Instead I celebrated his life a year after his sudden death. It was a year in which I knew heartache and sorrow, but throughout I was amazed and blessed by the wonderful promises of God. In that week of remembrance, God saw fit to give double blessings. Two new babies were added to our family – a great-nephew and a great-niece.

This reminded me of Zechariah 9:12: ‘This very day I’m declaring a double bonus – everything you lost returned twice-over!’ (The Message). It also brought to mind Isaiah 61:7: ‘You will

rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.’

In this life we are all sure to face difficulties, but our God is greater than them and more than able to bless us over and above what we can imagine.

In a time of sadness, rejoicing in the new birth of two babies is so amazing and brings such joy, outshining much sorrow. I give thanks to God for his double blessing and can identify with David, who wrote these words in Psalm 30: ‘Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning…

You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. Lord my God, I will praise you for ever’ (vv5–12).

My prayer for those who may feel invisible is that you will know that God sees you. He can declare a double bonus over your life, returning to you twice over that which you have lost during this past year.

NICOLA IS THE COMMUNITY MISSION FACILITATOR, BARROW-IN-FURNESS Salvationist 29 May 2021

15

BIBLE STUDY

Let go and let God! Captain Ben Ellis considers our willingness to take up God’s challenges in the last of three studies by the Candidates Unit

PSALM 119:112

T

HE psalmist said: ‘I have determined in my heart to obey whatever you say, fully and forever!’ (Psalm 119:112 The Passion Translation). Salvationist songwriter Brindley Boon penned these words: ‘I will go where thou canst use me;/ Help me see my mission plain;/ Ask, for I cannot refuse thee;/ Lose I all, the crown I’ll gain’ (SASB 681).

The lyrics challenge us to surrender our lives fully to God and live differently.

This transformation starts with having a personal relationship with the Father and seeking his will for our lives. It is therefore important that we make time and space to hear God’s voice.

In 2020, within the space of a week, the world changed for ever. We were thrown into something uncomfortable, unknown and unprecedented. Our daily

Through the week with Salvationist – a devotional thought for each day

by Major Lynda Levis

routines changed and we all had to adapt to the new normal. Corps and centres were forced to develop their mission to continue to show God’s love in action.

The psalms give us encouragement and hope that God will be with his people through times of hardship.

Despite this assurance, during the global pandemic, many of us will have struggled at times to feel close to God.

and standards, God requires each of us to focus only on him. This could mean placing less value on the security of the home you have created, the job you have worked for or the money that you are earning.

QUESTIONS O What distracts you from spending time with God? O What has helped you to feel closer to God in the past year?

Across the UKI Territory and around the world, Salvation Army corps and centres continue to meet the needs of other people. The need grows. There are still many in our communities who are lost and living without hope.

God calls us as his disciples to make a difference in our neighbourhoods.

Each of us has a different mission field.

For some of us, it has been offering practical support by volunteering at food

Our study passage poses a challenge.

In order for us to obey God’s will fully, we must first let go of our own plans and priorities. Instead of focusing our energy and attention on society’s ideals

QUESTION O To what extent are you willing to let go of such things and trust that God will guide and equip you for the task?

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

This is our God, the Servant King,/ He calls us now to follow him,/ To bring our lives as a daily offering/ Of worship to the Servant King.

(SASB 165)

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.

(1 Corinthians 15:58)

Into thy hands, Lord, take me and mould me,/ E’en as the potter handles the clay;/ Make me a vessel fit for thy service;/ Cleanse me and fill me, and use me today.

(SASB 599)

Prayer

Lord Jesus, may there be no dividing line between my worship and my service. May every area of my life be a worthy offering to you, acceptable and honouring to my God. 16

Salvationist 29 May 2021

banks or vaccination centres. For others, it has been as prayer warriors, interceding for frontline workers and world leaders.

In his first letter, Peter wrote: ‘Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ’ (1 Peter 4:10 and 11).

In the same way that God’s mission takes different forms for each of us, our personal mission will change throughout our lives. We must be responsive to God’s call and, as we seek to live out the love of God, be willing to take on new challenges to meet the needs of those around us.

As national restrictions start to ease and we enter post-lockdown life, we might understandably be feeling uncertain about God’s plan for us.

Paul wrote these encouraging words: ‘So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness’ (Colossians 2:6 and 7).

This is a challenge to submit to God’s will, daily – to invite him into our lives in the morning, to bring him into our conversations and actions during the day and to leave our dreams with him at night. As we make time in our lives for God to speak to us, we are making our response to him – fully and forever.

‘Be the change’ is the Candidates Unit strapline that has inspired many people to respond to the call of God to spiritual leadership. The theme for

this year’s Candidates Sunday (16 May) was ‘Be Willing’.

In the chorus of a song of devotion, Agnes Heathcote wrote: ‘I’ll follow thee, of life the giver,/ I’ll follow thee, suffering Redeemer,/ I’ll follow thee, deny thee never,/ By thy grace I’ll follow thee’ (SASB 589).

Are these words you can sing from the heart? Are you willing to follow wherever God leads?

CAPTAIN ELLIS IS TERRITORIAL CANDIDATES OFFICER

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love.

(2 John 1:6)

Teach me, Lord, thy steps to know,/ By the way which thou didst go;/ Ever keeping close to thee,/ Loving him who first loved me.

(SASB 673)

The one who keeps God’s commands lives in him, and he in them. And this is how we know that he lives in us: we know it by the Spirit he gave us.

(1 John 3:24)

May this solemn consecration/ Never once forgotten be;/ Let it know no alteration,/ Registered, confirmed by thee./ Thine I am, O Lord, for ever,/ To thy service set apart;/ Suffer me to leave thee never,/ Seal thine image on my heart.

(SASB 674)

Salvationist 29 May 2021

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PREVIEW

LENDING A YOUTHFUL HAND

Ahead of Volunteers’ Week (1–7 June), Matt Perkins and Wendy Wasels introduce the Army’s campaign to recruit young people to help out in charity shops

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HARITY shops play a key role in the life of The Salvation Army, being the face of the Movement on high streets and contributing to the funding of the Army’s mission. As we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic, some regular charity shop volunteers have sadly decided not to return, leaving some gaps to fill.

Looking to help with recruitment, the Youth and Children’s Ministries Unit has teamed up with Community Services to appeal to young people as a potential new volunteer force.

It is well documented that volunteering can contribute to one’s physical and mental wellbeing, including improved confidence, self-esteem and a sense of giving back to one’s community. The Royal Voluntary Service’s 2021 report, Social Mobility: Unleashing the Power of Volunteering, documents compelling evidence of the power of volunteering to drive people’s social mobility either through improving their employability 18

Salvationist 29 May 2021

or inspiring them to train or retrain to seek a fulfilling career.

It is therefore fitting that, to coincide with Volunteers’ Week, there is a focus on how to use charity shops to offer volunteering opportunities to young people so that they can engage in the life of The Salvation Army.

While the focus is on encouraging people between the ages of 16 and 25, anyone who wants to offer their time and talents is welcome. For young people, when they engage in meaningful acts of service, there is a double benefit: a contribution to the common good of society and the building of their own character. This may also include: O Developing their understanding of The Salvation Army’s mission O Improving their employability through insights into the world of work and the retail and charity sector O Finding opportunities to learn a range of skills, from time management to customer-service skills

O Gaining

self-confidence through their interactions with team members and customers O Deepening their sense of purpose O Acquiring experience that can be used to enhance their CV, thus improving their employment prospects Eighteen-year-old Grace Anyon sums up her volunteering experience: ‘There is the benefit of being able to put it on my CV as work experience, but also of talking to people in the community and serving them. It has been a really good experience and I‘ve enjoyed getting to know my community better.’

As well as being an additional member of the team to carry out meaningful tasks, a young person can be of benefit to a charity shop by bringing their energy, ideas and technical skills – for example, they often have a great handle on social media. Young people can also help give us an understanding of The Salvation Army’s image through their generation’s eyes and show us how to reach other young people in the community.

Rachel Steward, shop manager at Sale Corps charity shop says: ‘The best thing about having a young person volunteer in our shop is that they bring a positive input with lots of fresh ideas. They in turn have the opportunity to work with a variety of people of different ages and life experiences. It is lovely to see younger and older generations working together and forming positive relationships.’

HOW TO GET INVOLVED The recruitment campaign will be launched in Volunteers’ Week and run throughout the summer. It will target young people via social media and online adverts in locations where volunteers are needed.

A colourful kit will be available for managers to promote vacancies. Adverts will also be posted on volunteer webpages using a new online application facility.

O If you are a shop manager and want to advertise a vacancy, email volunteering@salvationarmy.org.uk O If you are 16 plus and looking for a vacancy in a charity shop, visit salvationarmy.org.uk/volunteer/ charity-shops-volunteering

MATT IS YOUTH SPECIALIST (LEADER DEVELOPMENT) AND WENDY IS VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, BOTH AT THQ

FEATURE I Fundraising

Best foot forward Police Constable Stuart Roberts is inspired to raise money for The Salvation Army

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WREXHAM police officer is running the London Marathon in October to help raise funds for The Salvation Army’s vital work with survivors of modern slavery.

Police Constable Stuart Roberts, aged 38, was inspired to take part after he worked with Wrexham Corps while he was a community beat manager.

PC Stuart says: ‘I’d go to the corps a couple of times a week to speak to people experiencing homelessness as a way of building relationships between the community and the police.

‘Seeing the work that goes on at The Salvation Army inspired me to do the marathon. I was so impressed by the way they treat people and help anyone.

I’ve seen how people have struggled during the pandemic, some have lost jobs and homes. I really think that had it not been for the help of The Salvation Army they could have continued with a life of crime or turned to crime to survive.

‘Modern slavery and exploitation do exist in Wrexham, particularly among young people. The Salvation Army has been helping those affected and through them I have been able to build trust with victims and take action. The funds raised will make a big difference by helping to prevent exploitation and protect the vulnerable.

‘The team is full of wonderful individuals who support our communities in many ways. I’m proud to run for Uhe Salvation Army team.’

Having picked up a couple of injuries, PC Stuart had a sore start to his training, but is now back on track.

He says: ‘I have never run a marathon before, so this is a big thing for me. I have a level of fitness and play football, but the impact of running on the road has not been kind to my knees and hips!

‘The most I’ve run so far is 15 miles.

I would get up at 5.30am to run before

starting work at 7am. I’ve been out in snow and rain – all the elements. I’m enjoying itt now can go out o because I ca in the evenings enings and the weather is a bit warmer. er.

‘I can’t wait to take part in the marathon. n. I hope it goes ahead with spectators, rs, as my family are going to come down wn to London to support me.’

Throughout ghout the pandemic Wrexham m Corps, led by corps officers Majors Ian and Sandra Davis, has as been helping rough sleepers,, the isolated and lonely, and struggling ggling families. The corps regularly provides more than 80 hot meals a day to people experiencing homelessness sness and temporarily housed in n hotels under the Everyone In scheme. me.

Karen Edwards, the community managerr at the corps, says: ‘We are so happy y PC Stuart has chosen to run the marathon on behalf of The Salvation n Army. This is the first time he will have ave run this distance and is already working hard on his training, which we are following closely! We are extremely emely grateful for his support.’

The London ondon Marathon n will be held on 3 October – and forr those unable to o travel to London there here is also the Virtual London Marathon, which runners nners can complete e on the same day y over the course off 24 hours, wherever herever they are in the world.

O Are you interested in running for The Salvation Army in the Virtual London Marathon 2021 or applying for the London Marathon 2022? Visit salvationarmy.org.uk/run

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REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI EC TION TI ON REFLECTION

More than coffee and biscuits an expression of the commitment they had to one another. One sentence sums up the fellowship of the early Church: ‘All the believers were one in heart and mind’ (Acts 4:32).

The Sunday after Pentecost is called Trinity Sunday. This is significant because when the Spirit came he brought the life EARS ago I was at an ecumenical of the Trinity into the life of the Church, service where the guest preacher, making fellowship with God and with one another possible. The Spirit brings a Church of England bishop, us into fellowship with the Father and described ‘unity’ as an ‘aerosol word’ – the Son (see John 14:23 and Ephesians sprayed around all over the place, often 2:18), and all who share this experience without any sense of what it really meant. are part of one family and one body (see I think ‘fellowship’ is also an aerosol Ephesians 3:14 and 15; 4:4). word – people use it a lot, often without The Trinity is the perfect model for the realising the depth of its meaning. The kind of relationships that should exist in writer and speaker Selwyn Hughes once remarked: ‘Today, generally speaking, the the fellowship of the Church.

First, the mystery of the Three in One is word “fellowship” means a genial getreflected in the Church where people of together of Christians, followed by coffee diverse backgrounds, temperaments and and biscuits.’ Now there’s nothing wrong with that, but real fellowship is much richer gifts are united in the Spirit. Just as in a than Rich Tea biscuits! Christian fellowship human family, we in the family of God have no choice about our brothers and is created by the Holy Spirit and reflects sisters. They are given to us and united the life of the Trinity. with us. But we can choose to express On the Day of Pentecost the disciples this unity in our words and deeds, and so ‘were all together in one place’ (Acts fulfil the prayer of Jesus, ‘that all of them 2:1). Following the Spirit’s infilling this may be one, Father, just as you are in me togetherness was transformed into and I am in you’ (John 17:21). fellowship: ‘They devoted themselves to Second, the Trinity is bound together the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship’ by love. The writer and theologian (Acts 2:42). The word ‘fellowship’ is a Frederick Buechner said: ‘God does translation of the Greek word NRLQǀQLD, not need the Creation in order to have which means ‘sharing,’ and Acts 2:42–47 something to love, because within himself shows what it involved. Together the love happens.’ If love ‘happens’ within the believers shared in the study of God’s Trinity, then love should be the hallmark word, in common meals and in prayer. of those who are in fellowship with the Sharing also meant using their material Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This was so possessions to help fellow believers who characteristic of the early Church that were in need. This practical sharing was

Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts considers how Christian fellowship can reflect the life of the Trinity

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one pagan observer said, ‘See how these Christians love one another.’

Our mission together should also be influenced by the Trinity. The three persons of the Trinity work together for the redemption of the world. In the simplest terms: the Father sent the Son, the Son obeyed the Father’s will and the Spirit empowers the Church. So, in partnership with each other, the people of God are to obey the Father’s will and serve a lost and needy world. The fact that NRLQǀQLD can also be translated as ‘partnership’ indicates that fellowship is not about being part of a cosy club. It is a ‘partnership in the gospel’ (Philippians 1:5), reaching out in costly service to others.

If the Spirit of fellowship could create a people of perfect unity, love and mission partnership, the world would see a powerful witness to the reality of God. The familiar words of John 1:18 describe the revelation of God in the person of Jesus: ‘No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in the closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.’ Perhaps not so familiar are words from 1 John 4:12, which begins in exactly the same way, but then goes on to describe how God is revealed in the fellowship of his people: ‘No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.’

That powerful witness to the reality of God was certainly evident in the earliest Church. No wonder Luke records that ‘the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved’ (Acts 2:47).

Salvationist Day Month 2021

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Poets’ corner Three in One May be sung to the tune ‘Down Ampney’ (SATB 602) O God, who caused to be Worlds we shall never see And made mankind the apex of creation, We grieved you by the Fall, Yet you did heed our call And planned a strategy for our salvation.

O God, who bore our blame, With human form and name, To free us from rebellion’s consequences, Meet us each day to save By cross and empty grave And fix around our hearts secure defences.

Lord, Let Me Know O God, our daily guide, Teach us, while by our side, How we may blend true worship, prayer and labour.

Then shall our chief desire Be what you most require: To honour you by caring for our neighbour.

O God the Three in One, Be of our souls the sun, Shine in our minds and brighten all our dullness.

Then realise your end, As father, brother, friend, And flood our hearts with love in all your fullness.

Lord, let me know your voice, Amid the noise today That tries to blank the words you say So that I fail to hear.

Lord, let me know your voice, So I can clearly sense The words you have to say to me, I’m ready Lord to hear.

Lord, let me know your mind, In this perplexing day That tries to tempt me far away From what you’d have me do.

Lord, let me know your mind, So I may see the way That you have set for me today, Together we will go.

LIEUT-COLONEL DAVID ARMISTEAD

May we know the road we tread, Never straight, we look ahead And see your face, a beacon light To guide us from our darkest night, So that always when we fall We will hear our Saviour call.

Lord, let me know your heart, Amid the hate and rage That flows from those who lose their way, Who feel that all is lost.

Lord, let me know your heart, So others then will see The love that you have shown to me Through Jesus on the cross.

MARK AYLING

MAJOR SIMON CLAMPTON

Lord, Give Us Strength Lord give us strength so we may see All your power to set us free, Let us know your love for all, Help us to listen for your call May we always want to be Ever faithful, strong for thee.

PREVIEW

A Burning in My Bones

by Winn Collier

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HIS authorised biography of Eugene Peterson offers insight into the experiences and spiritual convictions of the translator of The Message.

Encounter the multifaceted life of the American pastor with stories of his lifelong devotion to his craft and love of language, the influences and experiences that shaped his faith, the inspiration for his decision to translate The Message, and his success and struggles as a pastor, husband and father.

Winn Collier was given exclusive access to Eugene and his materials for this book, including many years of private correspondence and hours of interviews.

Drawing from their friendship, Collier offers a comprehensive and intimate look

into Peterson’s life.

‘This hunger for something radical – something so true that it burned in his bones – was a constant in Eugene’s life,’ Collier writes. ‘His longing for God ignited a ferocity in his soul.’

Collier is the author of multiple books and has written for The Washington Post and Christianity Today. The pastor of All Souls in Charlottesville, Virginia, he also serves as the founding director of The Genesis Project, a community providing circles of friendship and contemplation for pastors and writers.

O A Burning in My Bones is available from eden.co.uk priced £19.40 (hardback) Salvationist 29 May 2021

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond O Lieut-Colonels Maureen and Peter Wood (10 June) Emerald (55th) O Majors David and Gunborg Young (11 June) Golden O Brian and Jean Jeffs, Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls (22 May) O Majors Evangeline and Lawrie Brown (5 June) O Majors David and Marian Lewis (12 June) O Captain Margaret and Major Michael Warner (12 June) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Major Mervyn Marshall (80 on 7 June) O Major Brenda Bradbury (85 on 7 June) O Aux-Captain Michael Salter (85 on 9 June) O Major Margaret Hyndman (80 on 9 June) O Major Raymond King (85 on 9 June) O Colonel Kathleen Guy (85 on 10 June) O Mrs Aux-Captain Doreen Broadbent (85 on 11 June) 22

Salvationist 29 May 2021

BEREAVED O Pete Curle, Gloucester, of his wife S/Reservist Rosemary Curle, Caroline Laidlow, Gloucester, and Andrew Curle of their mother O Brian Bridges, Stowmarket, of his sister Gwen Bridges O Major Valerie Morgan, Aylsham, and Denzil Morgan of their father Dennis Morgan O Commissioner Margaret Harris of her husband Commissioner Wesley Harris, Christine Robertson, Waterbeach, of her father O Lieut-Colonel Barbara Tucker of her husband Lieut-Colonel Colin Tucker, Major Russell Tucker, Lurgan, of his father O Major Margaret Mein of her brother Peter Mein O TE Stewart Madden, Aldershot, of his mother Pauline Madden O Major Lisa Goble, Redruth, and Tracey Goble of their father Peter Goble

TRIBUTES OLIVE GREANEY, SWANSEA OLIVE was born in Liverpool in 1935 and moved to Swansea in 1966 to marry. Family friends brought Olive and her youngest daughter to Swansea Citadel in 1977 and there, Olive found her spiritual home. Over the years she was corps cadet guardian, YP treasurer, a songster, a prison visitor and, for more than 30 years, a well-known and well-loved pub boomer around Mumbles and Swansea.

She loved meeting people and took every opportunity to help others and share her faith.

Olive was a devoted mum to her four children, a very keen gardener and always a great encourager to

others, with a smile that radiated God’s presence. After becoming ill, she spent her last three years in residential care, still with a positive outlook and a smile for everyone.

Olive was promoted to Glory in March and is now resting in God’s care. – AG JOHN DENYER, EASTBOURNE CITADEL BORN in 1933 to Salvationist parents in Eastbourne, John was a lifelong Salvationist and was No 2 on the corps roll before his promotion to Glory.

He was a songster and held various local officer positions, such as cub leader, assistant corps sergeant-major and band secretary. He was known for his cornet solos and loved to play for his Lord.

John went into national service in 1954 and served in the Royal Sussex Regiment, which took him to Germany.

In 1957 John married Mary Sansom and together they shared 64 years of married life. They had three children, Shirley, Paul and Janette.

John’s career took him into carpentry and joinery. After redundancy, he became the charity shop’s van driver. He enjoyed meeting people through this work.

John’s greatest love was his family.

He leaves behind his wife, three children, seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

He is missed by those who loved and knew him. – YV ANSWERS TO ECUMENICAL QUIZ (PAGE 24) 12. b. The Keswick Convention 13. a. France 14. c. The Church of the Nazarene 15. b. The Church of England 16. c. ‘Agreed’ 17. b. Christian Aid 18. b. The Roman Catholic Church 19. a. Local Ecumenical Partnership 20. a. Between the feasts of St Peter and St Paul (18–25 January)

APPOINTED Effective 3 June O Captains Vanessa and Xander Coleman, additional appointment, divisional youth team leaders, Central South O Major Joanne Thompson, additional appointment, divisional youth team, Central South Effective 10 June O Captains Helen and John Parry, Uxbridge O Captains David and Kate Donaldson, Nambour (Australia Territory) Effective 1 July O Lieutenant Rona Beatty, chaplain, No 10 (with St Anne’s) and associate officer, Regent Hall O TE Lee Highton-Nicholls, associate officer, Willenhall O Major Graham Mizon, Willenhall (21 hours per week)

PROMOTED TO GLORY S/Reservist Rosemary Curle, Gloucester O Gwen Bridges, Stowmarket O Dennis Morgan, Aylsham, on 12 May O Commissioner Wesley Harris from his home in Melbourne, Australia, on 14 May O Lieut-Colonel Colin Tucker from Inverclyde Royal Hospital, Greenock, on 15 May O

1. c. ‘The whole inhabited world’ 2. b. Edinburgh 3. c. The Church of Scotland 4. c. 1972 5. c. The Baptist Union of Great Britain 6. a. Conference of European Churches 7. a. 42 8. b. Busan, South Korea 9. c. 7 January 10. a. 173,019 11. a. Pentecostal

ARMY PEOPLE

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE

Issued by Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant and correct as of 3pm on 24 May

expects screens or bell covers to be used at rehearsals. The most cost-effective way of achieving this is to use bell covers and for the conductor and percussionists to have clear screens between them ENGLAND The government has moved to Step 3 of and the band (or wear a mask or visor the roadmap. Groups of up to six people throughout). Provided that wider good practice is followed there is no bar on or two households can meet indoors the use of brass and blown instruments and for overnight visits. People can during indoor or outdoor worship. Corps meet in groups of up to 30 outdoors.

Up to 30 people can attend weddings, are asked to report any push back from local authorities to DHQs. receptions and other life events. The number attending a funeral is determined NORTHERN IRELAND by how many people the venue can Restrictions are still in place. Currently accommodate with social distancing. no congregational singing is permitted.

Care home residents can have up Singing should be limited to one person. to five named visitors (two at a time), Outdoor band/choir rehearsals are provided visitors test negative. permitted where a crowd cannot gather.

Music groups of up to six players Indoor band rehearsals are now allowed. or singers can take part in worship in From 24 May, the maximum number the grounds or buildings of a place of of people attending indoor or outdoor worship. They can also meet to record gatherings is to be informed by a venue music for worship. Social distancing risk assessment, but no more than 500 rules should be observed at all times. people can attend outdoor gatherings.

Indoor communal singing should not Post-wedding receptions and posttake place. When worship is outdoors, the congregation may join in with singing funeral gatherings can resume, with numbers attending determined by a in multiple groups of up to 30 people venue risk assessment. in each group and adhere to social distancing. A maximum group of six REPUBLIC OF IRELAND singers can rehearse indoors.

For bands a group of up to 30 players The government is continuing with can rehearse outdoors. Indoors, multiple the phased easing of public health measures. All retail is now open. Further fixed groups of up to six people per changes are planned from early June. group can meet to rehearse if space allows. A full band can meet to rehearse SCOTLAND under one conductor, as long as the Most of mainland Scotland is at Level venue allows enough room for each player to maintain at least a 360-degree 2 while Orkney, Shetland and other islands are at Level 1. In Level 2 areas 2-metre distance from anyone else. people can meet indoors in groups The Department for Digital, Culture, of six from up to three households.

Media and Sport has made it clear it Where activities are now permitted, please ensure you have up-to-date risk assessments approved by DHQ.

Outdoors, up to eight people from eight households can mix. Up to 50 people can attend weddings and funerals.

The Glasgow City council area will stay at Level 3 for a further period due to the number of Covid-19 cases identified.

In updated places of worship guidance, singing, chanting and/or the playing of any instrument in small groups, non-professional choirs and bands are only permitted to resume for areas at Levels 0 to 2. Although there is no definition of ‘small group’ we advise up to six people per group. Congregational singing is not allowed anywhere but is being reviewed for Levels 0 to 1.

WALES Wales has moved to Level 2. Up to 30 people can take part in organised indoor activities and up to 50 people in organised outdoor activities. This includes wedding receptions and wakes.

Choirs and brass/wind band rehearsals are permitted indoors with up to 30 members under the organised activity rules. Outdoors, up to 50 people are permitted to convene under the organised activity rules. Organisers of these have a duty to take all reasonable measures to minimise exposure to coronavirus. Risk assessments should consider the space available to allow social distancing as far as is possible. No public performances, crowds or audiences are allowed.

A fixed group of six singers is permitted in worship indoors. Congregational singing is not permitted indoors.

Brass and blown instruments are not currently permitted in worship. The Salvation Army is in dialogue with the Welsh government regarding this.

ADVERTS SOUTH LONDON DIVISION

Saturday 3 July 2pm at William Booth College (the event is ticket only, but hoped to be live-streamed)

CELEBRATION OF SERVICE MAJORS GRAHAM AND SHARON WILLETTS Greetings and messages to: Major Ian Woodgate, South London DHQ, 1 Tiverton Street, London SE1 6NT Video greetings and messages emailed to: ian.woodgate@salvationarmy.org.uk

PERSONAL A service of thanksgiving for COMMISSIONER WESLEY HARRIS was conducted by

FAIRHAVEN CHRISTIAN HOTEL (LLANDUDNO)

Commissioner Brian Morgan at Camberwell Corps, Australia. The service is available to watch online at youtu.be/50nFliL0bDo

Andrew and Paula offer you a warm Christian welcome, a relaxed atmosphere, good home-cooked food and a high standard of cleanliness overlooking Llandudno bay.

TO LET

All bedrooms are en suite. For colour brochure and information phone 01492 878447 or email fairhavenchristianhotel@gmail.com.

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.

fairhavenhotel.com

Salvationist 29 May 2021

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ECUMENICAL QUIZ Test your knowledge of churches and church unity The word ‘ecumenical’ comes from the Greek oikoumene. What does oikoumene mean? a. ‘Together we are one’ b. ‘The communion of saints’ c. ‘The whole inhabited world’

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The modern ecumenical movement began with the 1910 World Missionary Conference in which city? a. Cardiff b. Edinburgh c. Manchester Which national church has a Moderator of the General Assembly? a. The Church in Wales b. The Church of Ireland c. The Church of Scotland

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The United Reformed Church came into being in which year? a. 1772 b. 1872 c. 1972

4

Which denomination is made up of regional associations? a. The Society of Friends (Quakers) b. The Methodist Church c. The Baptist Union of Great Britain

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What does CEC stand for?

a. Conference of European Churches b. Council of Ecumenical Clergy c. Congress of Eastern Christians

How many dioceses are there in the Church of England? a. 42 b. 52 c. 62

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The most recent Assembly of the World Council of Churches was in 2013. Where did it take place? a. Uppsala, Sweden b. Busan, South Korea c. Canberra, Australia

8

When is Christmas Day in the Russian Orthodox Church? a. 25 December b. 31 December c. 7 January

9

As of 2018, how many members of the Methodist Church are there in Britain? a. 173,019 b. 231,101 c. 301, 227

10

What kind of church is the Assemblies of God? a. Pentecostal b. Lutheran c. Anglican

11

Which annual Christian event has the motto ‘all one in Christ Jesus’, from Galatians 3:28? a. Spring Harvest b. The Keswick Convention c. Soul Survivor

12

The Taizé Community is an ecumenical monastic order based in which country? a. France b. Germany c. Italy

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Which of these churches does not have bishops? a. The Roman Catholic Church b. The Coptic Orthodox Church c. The Church of the Nazarene

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The Mothers’ Union is part of which church? a. The Congregational Federation b. The Church of England c. The United Free Church of Scotland

The national ecumenical organisation in Wales is called Cytûn. What does cytûn mean? a. ‘United’ b. ‘One’ c. ‘Agreed’

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Which organisation was set up

by British and Irish churches in 1946 to ‘respond to Christ’s command to care for all in need’? a. Oxfam b. Christian Aid c. The Interchurch Organisation for Development Co-operation

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Ampleforth College is affiliated to which church? a. The Church of England b. The Roman Catholic Church c. The Methodist Church

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What does LEP stand for?

a. Local Ecumenical Partnership b. Lutheran-Evangelical Partnership c. Liturgical Elementary Partnership When is the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity normally held? a. Between the feasts of St Peter and St Paul b. Between Ascension Day and Pentecost c. During the first week of Lent

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O Answers

on page 22