Salvationist 2 February 2019

SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

No.1690 Price 60p

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 2 February 2019

T CONTENTS

Quotes from the media

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News

4 to 6

Letters

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Feature I Design for Life 20 years and counting

8

by Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

Rear-mirror views A life moulded by two events

9

by General John Larsson (Retired)

Feature I SA Fun in SA1 10 and 11 They all matter to God

by Simon Hope

Feature I Self-Denial 12 and 13 More than sand, sea and sunshine

by Lieut-Colonel Jenine Main

Fundraising feature 14 Riding in London, running in Berlin

by Angela Carlucci

Interview Researching Salvationist

15

by Richard Smart

Bible study Be strong!

16 and 17

by Major Steven Turner

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17

by Major Howard Webber

New commitments

18 and 19

Announcements Adverts

I’VE been fascinated by the BBC Two series Icons, which looks at various figures from the 20th century – their achievements, impact and legacy – and aims to assess which of them made the most significant contribution.

Each episode features four people in a particular ‘category of excellence’, and viewers are invited to vote for one to go forward to a grand final where the greatest of all will be chosen. The first episode, for example, focused on four influential leaders: Winston Churchill, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Margaret Thatcher and Nelson Mandela. The viewing public voted for Mandela to go into the final.

This issue of Salvationist goes to press before the episode featuring artists and writers has aired, so I can’t say who all seven finalists will be, but those who have made it so far, along with Mandela, are Ernest Shackleton (explorer), Alan Turing (scientist), David Bowie (entertainer), Martin Luther King Jr (activist) and Muhammad Ali (sports star). Ali claimed he was ‘the greatest’, but we’ll have to wait until the final on 5 February to find out if the public agrees!

I found it interesting that the BBC used the word ‘icon’ to describe these people. One of the dictionary meanings of ‘icon’ is: ‘A person or thing regarded as a representative symbol or as worthy of veneration.’ Although not worthy of veneration in a religious sense, the ‘icons’ being voted on are at least worthy of respect and represent what someone with talent and determination can achieve.

As one of the programme’s presenters said, they show that ‘a single person has the power to change the world’.

In his Rear-Mirror Views article on page 9 General John Larsson (Retired) features Samuel Logan Brengle, who could be described as an iconic figure within The Salvation Army. Such has been the impact of his writing and teaching that ‘next to William and Catherine Booth’, says General Larsson, Brengle ‘is the most influential Salvationist of all time’. His writings on holiness continue to challenge and help people today.

Holiness can be a bewildering subject; but for Brengle it was all about Jesus.

In Helps To Holiness he wrote: ‘Holiness is a great blessing. It is the renewal of the whole man in the image of Jesus.’ Brengle was echoing 2 Corinthians 3:18, which says that those who ‘contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit’. The word ‘image’ in this verse is a translation of the Greek word eikōn, which means ‘a likeness’, and is where our word ‘icon’ comes from.

So, icons are not just ‘great’ people, such as those featured by the BBC, or influential spiritual figures like Brengle. Each one of us can be an icon – an image of Jesus – if we are open to the renewing presence of the Spirit in our lives, making us more and more like him. We may not have ‘power to change the world’ but, as we reflect the goodness and grace of Jesus, we might be able to make a difference in our small corner of it.

20 7 and 21 to 23

The Salvation Army and me featuring Major Mark Herbert

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

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ICONS

Salvationist 2 February 2019

From the Editor, Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

APPEALS COURT TO HEAR PRO-LIFER’S CASE AGAINST BUFFER ZONES A pro-lifer who raised £50,000 to fund a legal challenge against Ealing Council’s ‘censorship zone’ outside abortion clinics will have her case heard by the Court of Appeal.

Alina Dulgheriu, who says her daughter is only alive today

because of the support she received from pro-lifers outside an abortion clinic, raised the money on a GoFundMe page after the High Court rejected her appeal last April.

The court upheld Ealing’s Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), which criminalises prayer vigils outside abortion clinics.

Dulgheriu said she was delighted by the ruling.

Catholic Herald

CHARITIES ARE LEFT IN LIMBO AMID BREXIT UNCERTAINTY Charities supporting disadvantaged groups across the UK have been left in limbo after the government broke its pledge to consult on replacing EUfunded services they rely on.

Disabled people, young offenders and the long-term unemployed risk losing out on ‘critical’ support due to the loss of the European Social Fund (ESF), which provides £500 million per year of EU funding to these services.

While the government has pledged to create a UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), designed to serve a similar purpose to current EU funding, charities have expressed concern after a public consultation on the new fund which was promised before the end of 2018 never emerged…

The government has said the UK will continue to participate in the ESF programme until programmes end in 2023, subject to a final negotiated agreement, which ministers said meant communities would continue to receive the same levels of funding until the end of the 2014-2020 programme period.

But charities have warned that the lack of clarity about what will happen after 2020 is leaving them ‘in the dark and unable to plan ahead’. The Salvation Army said the ESF played a ‘critical role’ in the work the charity does to help unemployed people find jobs – with 60 per cent of its employability support currently reliant on the fund.

Annie Dell, policy analyst at the charity, expressed concern that some people would no longer be able to access the specialist support that it provides with getting into work. ‘Inevitably, uncertainty around this funding will make it difficult to plan the support The Salvation Army delivers every year to hundreds of individuals,’ said Ms Dell.

The Independent

SALVATIONIST (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – (tel) 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – (tel) 020 7367 4892 Major Tony Button – (tel) 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey DTP DESIGNER Hannah Holden – (tel) 020 7367 4883 DTP OPERATOR Mark Knight – (tel) 020 7367 4896 PROOFREADER Chris Horne

DC TO LAUNCH COMIC WITH JESUS AS THE SIDEKICK The comic, called Second Coming, is written by Mark Russell, who recently described the set-up in an interview: ‘The concept is that God was so upset with Jesus’ performance the first time he came to Earth, since he was arrested so soon and crucified shortly after, that he has kept him locked-up since then.

‘God then sees this superhero on Earth a few thousand years later and says: “That’s what I wanted for you!” He sends Jesus down to learn from this superhero and they end up learning from each other.

They learn the limitations of each other’s approach to the world and its problems’…

A petition has been started online that calls it ‘outrageous and blasphemous’…

The comic has been commissioned for six issues, depending on whether it has a positive reaction.

Premier

RELIGIOUS LAUNCH NEW ANTI-TRAFFICKING NETWORK Nuns and monks in England and Wales are to be trained to support victims of modern slavery by a new anti-trafficking network launched by the Conference of Religious…

Two meetings are due to be held… that will lay the foundations of the network.

It will be affiliated to similar international groups such as Talitha Kum, a network of consecrated men and women working to end slavery across 76 countries.

The Tablet

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ISSN 2516-5909

SALVATIONIST ONLINE Find Salvationist on Facebook www.facebook.com/salvationistonline Find Salvationist on Twitter twitter.com/@SalvationistUK

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill SECRETARY FOR COMMUNICATIONS Lieut-Colonel David Kelly

Salvationist 2 February 2019

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NEWS

The UN and The Salvation Army inaugurate centre for victims of violence BRAZIL LOCAL people, refugees and migrants have a new safe space in the state of Roraima, Brazil.

The Salvation Army runs the Centre For Coexistence And Psychosocial Care in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund and UN Refugee Agency, with funding provided by the European Union. It helps people who have suffered gender-based violence, with a focus on women, young people, disabled people and members of the LGBTI community.

It is part of a response to the large-scale migration of Venezuelan nationals into the area since July 2018. Among the services that will be available

are social and psychological assistance, legal counselling, therapeutic and life skills workshops and socio-educational activities.

The partnership aims to extend the protection of refugees and migrants and ensure peaceful integration and coexistence with the local population. – M. U.

Women’s Ministries launch Bible studies IHQ TWELVE of the Army’s women leaders from around the world have contributed to On The Way To Heaven, a new 12-part Bible study series from the International Headquarters Women’s Ministry Team. Each part includes sections that can be used by individuals or in group discussion.

Inspired by the text of Philippians 3:20, ‘our citizenship is in Heaven’, each study explores how a Christian’s heavenly citizenship influences the way they live on earth.

To enable as many people as possible to use the material, it has been translated into eight additional languages, including French, Spanish, Russian and Mizo.

World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Rosalie Peddle prays that the studies will give women linked to The Salvation Army a ‘direction and meaning to life’ and an opportunity to share together. – A. R. O Visit sar.my/waytoheaven to download the Bible studies 4

Salvationist 2 February 2019

GREENFORD: A thanksgiving service, attended by Stephen Pound, MP, ministers from nearby churches and representatives from DHQ, marked the opening of the refurbished corps hall. – K.D.

MERTHYR TYDFIL: The Inner Wheel and Rotary Club celebrated International Wheel Day with a well-attended service led by corps officer Major Lynne Collins, who is an Inner Wheel member. Inner Wheel President Gill Rowles and Rotary President Eric James took part with prayer and a Bible reading. Also pictured is Major Nigel Collins. – L. B.

SOUTHAMPTON SHIRLEY: Regional Chaplaincy Officer Major Eleanor Haddick (Southern Region) led Homelessness Sunday.

A number of former residents from the nearby Lifehouse, two of whom are attending soldiership classes, attended the meeting.

Service Manager Matt Smith from The Booth Centre Lifehouse gave an encouraging report of the links between the centre and Southampton city council and expressed appreciation for the ongoing spiritual and practical support of corps folk. Major Eleanor also led an afternoon meeting, with the band, at the Lifehouse. – J. W.

MP visit highlights widening gap in adult social funding NORTH WALSHAM FURZE Hill House Care Home hosted Norman Lamb, MP, to share concerns about the rising number of over-75s who are struggling to afford their own care. Service Manager Jodie Hemmings and Public Affairs Adviser Ian Geary (THQ) told the MP for North Norfolk about the asset-based adult social care funding, which is leaving older people – without property or savings – unable to pay for care in later life.

Furze Hill House is a purposebuilt home for older people specialising in dementia care with 40 en suite private rooms,

Scottish Salvationists celebrate the new year EAST SCOTLAND DIVISION TERRITORIAL leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill led three meetings in different venues during the weekend. They were first

social spaces, a landscaped garden, a general store, a chapel and a hairdressing room. The home offers a variety of entertainment and activities, including games, quizzes, arts and crafts

and musical performances.

Furze Hill House is one of twelve residential care homes across the United Kingdom that The Salvation Army owns and runs. All Army care homes aim

to offer compassionate, personcentred care for every resident.

Care is enhanced by the support of chaplains who are available to residents, relatives and friends as well as staff. – A. R.

welcomed at Falkirk, where those attending could share in a Bible study led by the Territorial Commander, with the theme Faith, or engage in Messy Church, exploring the life of the apostle Paul. There was also opportunity to participate in worship through dance and prayer. The afternoon concluded with a fellowship meal.

The commissioners led the Sunday morning meeting at Hawick, where Janice Cambridge gave her testimony.

Commissioner Gill gave the Bible message with thoughts based on walking with God. Edinburgh Gorgie was the venue for the final meeting.

Testimonies and good news reports from around the division were shared, and the divisional

youth band and divisional youth chorus took part.

The TC commissioned sergeants for both sections, and an assistant leader and secretary for the band.

In his message the TC used words from John 15, reminding the congregation that nothing can be achieved without being connected to Jesus, the vine. – C. Y. MORRISTON: The visit of Staines Songsters was the culmination of the host songsters’ 75th year. A wide variety of musical styles and languages was used and enhanced by choreographed movements, multimedia and lighting. The singing of Ray Steadman-Allen’s ‘Jesus Came With Peace To Me’ influenced the whole weekend, which included solo items, a vocal quartet, women’s voices and timbrelists. Major Paul Billard (Staines) led the worship and spoke of the impact that Christ’s glory can have in each person’s life. The band supported the Sunday meetings, and the weekend concluded with the united songsters singing ‘Sing For Joy’. – S. R. Salvationist 2 February 2019

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NEWS

Housing minister meets team behind a homeless prevention programme CARDIFF WELSH government housing minister Julie James met the team behind Housing First Cardiff, a pioneering weekly project run by The Salvation Army’s Homelessness Services Unit in partnership with Cardiff Council, which helps rough sleepers rebuild their lives.

The programme, which has been operating for more than a year, uses the housing first model, which sees people experiencing homelessness moving off the streets and straight into a new home. They then receive a

range of tailored support services to help them keep a roof over their head.

During her visit, Julie met

Chris, a tenant of the programme.

After almost 25 years as a youth worker and English teacher, Chris began drinking heavily

while working and travelling abroad. Returning to the UK for help, he ended up in jail and, on release from prison, struggled to find a job and was sofa-surfing.

Chris contacted the Army’s outreach service and met someone from the homelessness services team who decided he was a suitable candidate for the programme. He now has his own house.

‘This project is supporting some of the most vulnerable people in Wales to move away from living on our streets,’ said Julie. ‘I share the determination of everyone at The Salvation Army, across the local authorities and in charities to tackle homelessness and improve the lives of people who find themselves without a secure, suitable home.’

– I. R. SITTINGBOURNE: The International Staff Songsters (ISS) began their visit with an open workshop.

Participants then joined the ISS on Saturday evening to perform ‘Amazing Grace’ and ‘O When The Saints’. The host songsters joined the ISS to sing ‘God And God Alone’. The deputy mayor of Swale, Councillor Ken Ingleton, was part of the capacity audience.

– M. W.

Stapleford corps officer Major Beverly Baker and CPR Frank Taylor present £1,494, raised at the corps carol concert, to Estelle Dove from the charity Footprints 6

Salvationist 2 February 2019

Retiring as Kilmarnock YPSM, Maureen Colvin receives gifts from children representing the many she had cared for over the years, and corps officer Lieutenant Emma Heal pays tribute to her commitment and devotion

LETTERS

SONGS IN THE NIGHT MY Salvationist friend, who has been mostly housebound through illness for the past year, and very low in spirits, shared this Christmas experience with me.

Having gone to bed on Christmas Eve she woke up at four o’clock in the dead of the night. Not being able to get back to sleep, she switched on her radio to hear a carol concert by The Salvation Army from the Royal Albert Hall. What a lovely surprise! It so lifted her spirit. ‘It was all so beautiful,’ she said.

My initial comment was it would have been better if they had broadcast the programme at a different time so that more people might have heard it. Then I had a second thought – no,

CHORUSES STORED IN MY MEMORY

perhaps those who needed to hear it most were people who were awake at 4 am for whatever reason.

Our thanks go to all those involved in the carol concert

and to all Salvationist musicians who have brought joy to the world at Christmas.

Beryl Hartley, Halesowen

CHORUSES we learnt a long time ago echo in my memory. I remember, at corps cadet house parties, singing choruses in the lounge at Sunbury Court – wonderful!

Now those same choruses come back to me, one after the other, when I am standing at the kitchen sink or doing other household chores.

‘Thank you, Lord, for saving my soul’, ‘He walks with me, and talks with me’, ‘Wonderful, wonderful Jesus, in my heart he implanteth a song’, ‘In my heart a song is ringing’, ‘Come, beautiful Christ, radiate thy beauty in me’.

The writers of these words could never have known the blessing their gift of words would mean to me.

Margaret Garland, Basingstoke

ADVERT

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FEATURE I Design for Life

20 YEARS

AND COUNTING As Design for Life celebrates its 20th anniversary Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts explores its beginnings and continuing relevance

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HE first Design for Life (DFL) weekend took place in 1999, and since then hundreds of people have attended and been able to explore God’s plan for their lives. Many of them, together with some of the staff who’ve been involved over the years, will be at DFL20 in March. ‘DFL20 will be a real celebration of all that God has done and is still doing through DFL,’ says Territorial Candidates Director Major Janet Robson.

But how did it all begin?

Russell Rook was based at THQ in the 1990s and witnessed DFL’s early development. ‘The candidates secretary, Major Peter Mylechreest, had a revolutionary idea to stop telling everyone they needed to be Salvation Army officers but to say instead that God had a calling for all of them. If they found their calling then we’d probably have enough officers and enough of all kinds of other people as well.’

Peter takes up the story: ‘There had been residential candidate weekends, but these gave the impression that delegates would eventually go to the training college. The weekend left some of those who didn’t become cadets feeling either a failure or guilty. This seemed unfair because, while we are all called to follow Jesus and live God-honouring lives, not everyone is called to spiritual leadership as an officer.

‘What was needed was an opportunity for Salvationists to have a forum where they could be given information, ask questions and be allowed prayerfully to reflect on God’s will for their lives.’

Peter and Phil Wall worked on the idea of a cabaret-style tour of the country, presenting the concept of calling and various aspects of service. Although the idea never got off the ground, the next candidates secretary, Major Jean Bradbury, came across the proposal in 1997 and developed the concept with Russell and Adrian Gosling. Jean then presented the proposal to Cabinet, who caught the vision and approved funding for the project.

DFL was born!

In early 1999 Captain Rik Pears, by then candidates secretary, led the first weekend with Russell, Adrian and Andrew Grinnell. Six weekends were held during that first year in conference centres around the territory with 20 to 30 delegates at each.

‘A lot of the work was in small groups,’ remembers Rik, ‘where people could share their story – where they’d been, where they were at and where they might be going. And there 8

Salvationist 2 February 2019

were worship sessions with teaching on spiritual gifts and on calling and what that might mean. The format hasn’t really changed over the years because it works.

‘We found that about a third felt confirmed in their call to officership, a third felt they should be in another form of full-time ministry and a third had their role in their own corps confirmed. Some folk needed confirmation that it was OK to be where they were in their corps and in their jobs. We stressed that it’s important that we have active Christians in other jobs – we needed them in teaching, the police force, etc. That could be just as important a ministry as officership.’

DFL was introduced at a time when new forms of full-time service in the Army were developing. It gave people an opportunity to explore these, as Russell explains: ‘There were increasingly all kinds of opportunities. You could be an officer or you could serve in youth work, go on a “year out” programme or move to a new plant in a disadvantaged area.

‘DFL was about creating space where people could have a conversation with God and with one another and see what happened as a result.’

That is still the purpose of DFL. ‘It’s aimed at helping people understand the way in which God calls his people to respond to his will and purpose,’ says Janet. ‘It seems to result in people being able to “earth” their understanding of calling in the real context of their lives.

‘We have a number of officers, territorial envoys, lay leaders, local officers, employees and volunteers who all testify to the fact that DFL served as a “tipping point” for them as they considered God’s calling on their lives.’

‘I am delighted to learn that DFL over the years has been the means of many people discovering God’s will for themselves,’ says Peter. Russell agrees: ‘I think it’s been a fantastic thing for The Salvation Army. I’m glad the 20th anniversary is being recognised.’

DFL20 is on 16 March at William Booth College, beginning with refreshments from 3.30 pm followed by a celebration meeting at 4.30 pm. For more information contact the Candidates Unit on 020 7326 2820.

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To discover more about DFL weekends visit salvationarmy.org.uk/dfl

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REAR-M MIR RROR

A LIFE MOULDED BY TWO EVENTS General John Larsson (Retired) continues to share glimpses from 13 astonishing years that shaped The Salvation Army – 1878-1890

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WO events moulded the destiny of Samuel Brengle. The first took place on a January morning.

American Methodist minister, the Rev Samuel Logan Brengle, aged 25, was furthering his ministerial qualifications by studying at Boston Theological Seminary. But what he most yearned to further was his own experience of God. He was ‘desperately’ seeking the blessing of entire sanctification. And now it had happened. As he was to testify a thousand times throughout his life: ‘On January 9, 1885, at about nine o’clock in the morning, God sanctified my soul.’

Four days later the intensity of feeling rose to new heights. ‘Getting out of bed about six o’clock,’ he writes, ‘I opened my Bible and, while reading some words of Jesus, he gave me such a blessing as I never dreamed a man could have this side of Heaven. It was an unutterable revelation. It was a heaven of love that came into my heart.

‘I walked over Boston Common before breakfast, weeping for joy and praising God. Oh, how I loved! In that hour I knew Jesus, and I loved him till it seemed my heart would break with love. I was filled with love for all his creatures. I heard the little sparrows chattering; I loved them. I saw a little worm wriggling across my path; I stepped over it; I didn’t want to hurt any living thing. I loved the dogs, I loved the horses, I loved the little urchins on the street, I loved the strangers who hurried past me, I loved the heathen – I loved the whole world!’

That experience of God was to become the central focus of the rest of Samuel Brengle’s life. Within months,

the gusts of the Spirit blew him from promising ministerial prospects into the storm-centre of The Salvation Army, which was seeking to establish itself in Boston. There he met and fell in love with the gifted Lily Swift. Two days after they married Samuel left for London to be trained as a Salvation Army officer.

He arrived there in June 1887 to a frosty reception. William Booth greeted him with, ‘Brengle, you belong to the dangerous classes’, and his training officer assigned him to clean the boots of the other men cadets every morning.

But Cadet Brengle won through, and by the time he was commissioned as a captain six months later, was admired by all. Before he returned to the USA,

‘

He gave me such a blessing as I never dreamed a man could have this side of Heaven

’

William Booth put his arm around him and shared his hopes for the Army in that country.

Captain and Mrs Brengle were soon appointed back to Boston, this time as the corps officers. It was during their stay there that the second life-changing event in Samuel Brengle’s life took place.

One evening, as he entered the dark narrow alley that led to the hall, he was attacked by a thug who hurled a paving brick at him. The brick struck Brengle’s head full force, smashing it against the doorpost. For days he hovered between life and death. He eventually pulled through, but it took 19 months of convalescence before he

was well enough to return to the front line.

During those traumatic months, Brengle began to put his pen to work.

He wrote a number of articles for the War Cry about holiness. His warm and direct style spoke to the hearts of readers and, when the articles were later published in book form under the title Helps To Holiness, the book became an instant bestseller. Since its publication in 1896 the book has gone through multiple editions in many languages and has never been out of print. It is estimated that before Brengle’s death in 1936 its sales had already passed the million mark.

This initial book was followed by eight further volumes. An updated set of all his writings was published as recently as 2016.

Samuel Brengle not only wrote about holiness, he also became a renowned preacher of holiness. While still a young officer he was set apart to conduct spiritual campaigns. He continued in this role, which in time became worldwide, until his retirement. He was the first American-born officer to become a commissioner, and next to William and Catherine Booth is the most influential Salvationist of all time.

And it all began with a paving brick striking his head. Mrs Brengle had enough presence of mind to keep the brick. She inscribed it with the words Joseph spoke to his brothers who had sold him into slavery, and stood it on their mantelpiece at home as a permanent memento of the time when the Devil over-reached himself: ‘Ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good’ (Genesis 50:20 King James Version).

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FEATURE I SA Fun in SA1

Three years after the launch of Swansea’s SA Fun in SA1, two members of the children’s club leadership team, Matthew Green and Emily Smith, share the effect it has had on the corps

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VERY Friday evening, in the heart of Swansea, around twenty children learn about God at a children’s club led and run by young people. Three years after the launch of SA Fun in SA1, the club is showing just how important children are in connecting corps and community.

Having seen diminished numbers in Sunday school for a number of years, Jess and Matthew Green and sisters Emily and Abigail Smith realised there was something missing from the weekly programme. They could see dozens of children in the park across the road, but very few ventured into the hall. Messy Church happened every six to eight weeks, yet that was evidently not enough.

‘That’s when the initial penny dropped,’ says Matthew. ‘We needed something on a Friday, somewhere safe and warm for children to come, where they could play and socialise and also get a message.’

With much prayerful support, the young people felt able to start a youth club as a way for children in the

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Team leaders

community to learn more about Jesus.

‘Our vision is that every child who attends the youth club will grow closer to God and experience his love for them,’ explains Emily. ‘We pray that what they learn will stay with them throughout their lives.’

Three years since the club began, a change in the corps is evident. Children who attend the club have started going to Sunday school and Messy Church – which is now a monthly event – and

some have even taken part in the annual residential youth weekend.

‘Once a year the children and youth go on a retreat, a weekend away out on the Gower,’ Matthew enthuses.

‘There’s a lot of prayer, Bible study and worship together, so for the club children that’s maybe something they’re not used to on a regular basis. But they enjoy it and, from conversations that those children have had with the children that didn’t go, there’s more interest in

attending next year! They felt safe and they wanted to be with The Salvation Army in a strange place and spend time with us as leaders, as people and as Christians.

‘Those who attended the camp got to know some of the Sunday school and Messy Church leaders. So they’re growing in their relationships within the corps and feeling more at ease. They’re getting to know that The Salvation Army in Swansea isn’t just mums-and-tots and SA Fun in SA1, but there are other activities. A couple of them even come to the Sunday meeting now, with other family members. So, while we’re engaging more and more with the children, we’re also engaging more and more with their parents.’

On top of linking children with other corps activities, the club provides its own opportunities for worship and Bible study.

‘A typical youth club starts with welcome games,’ Emily shares. ‘The children then listen to an interactive Bible story after a group game. They then continue to learn about the Bible story with a craft based on the theme.

One joy we experienced when running the club was a child who started bringing her own Bible along so she could follow the story herself.’

Throughout the past three years the team behind SA Fun in SA1 has been well supported by the Too Old For Sunday School group, for people in the corps aged 13 to 30. The group has played an important part in the running of the club, with many of its members taking on responsibilities each week.

‘When they start coming to help on a

‘

We needed something on a Friday, somewhere safe and warm for children to come, where they could play and socialise and also get a message

’

regular basis you can see leadership qualities,’ says Matthew. ‘Some of them have started helping me out with the stories. Some are helping with leading the songs and encouraging the children to dance and sing along. So, slowly, we are seeing leadership qualities develop and we are making use of those and encouraging them to take a more active part. And they’re more than willing to do so. As they’re doing more and more they’re becoming more confident,

helping us to support and teach the children in their different ways using their own skills and qualities.’

Joshua Boyce, another member of Too Old For Sunday School, commends everyone involved in the running of the club: ‘Since starting SA Fun in SA1, many children have started attending Sunday school and other corps activities. From the very first club the youngsters were told they matter to God and this is reiterated right through every Friday – everyone is important to God and he loves and knows them by name.’

The team knows that none of this would be possible without God. ‘Even if you’ve got a calling from God to do something, it’s not going to be easy,’ Matthew says. ‘When we were going through the initial planning we thought we would never get off the ground. At the first club we had six children, and I think that’s been our lowest attendance since we started three and a half years ago. It’s scary, it’s stressful, it’s frustrating, but if this is God’s plan he will give us everything we need.’

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FEATURE I Self-Denial

MORE THAN SAND,

Lieut-Colonel Jenine Main, a UK officer serving in the Caribbean Territory with her husband, Lieut-Colonel Paul Main, highlights the territory’s work, which will be supported by this year’s Self-Denial Appeal Lunch at the homeless centre, Kingston

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Havendale Care Home

H it’s a tough life, but someone has to do it’ was a phrase we heard often after the announcement of our appointment to the Caribbean. It was said tongue in cheek, of course, but we can’t deny that we felt a sense of delight about living in the Caribbean – with its glorious sunshine, palm trees, beaches, reggae, good cricket and athletics, jerk chicken, bananas, coconut and coffee. However, as we stepped off the plane into the July heat of 38C – lovely to holiday in, a little harder to work in on a daily basis – we stepped into the reality of very expensive food and fuel, poor law enforcement, varying forms of corruption, poor education standards, bad roads – and terrible driving! – gang-related violent crime and some extremely deprived communities with poor living conditions.

It is in these conditions that many Salvation Army corps are located and operating. Three corps in ‘downtown’ Kingston operate in areas that we would not drive around after dark to reduce our risk of stumbling across crime-related activity. In the continuous hot weather it’s a familiar sight to see men sitting outside playing dominoes, women trying to make Rebuilding after Hurricane Irma in 2018

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SEA AND SUNSHINE Captain Nicola Muir at the school for blind children

are poor. In the hot climate insects and parasites destroy furniture, books and parts of building structures that are too costly to replace.

Hurricanes and earthquakes are common, causing disruption and chaos.

Time and financial investment are needed in order to recover – finances that the people and governments do not have.

The Salvation Army is often involved in bringing relief in these emergency situations but is also heavily affected by them. It is in these situations, and in times of recovery, that the territory is heavily dependent on the generosity of donors to rebuild, educate and establish sustainable solutions and programmes.

In many places officers do not receive a regular allowance. The cost of living, of health and dental care and of further education is way beyond the means of most ordinary people, resulting in poor health for many and fewer skilled and qualified professionals to provide good work and education.

THQ is located in Kingston, Jamaica, where The Salvation Army operates in 44 corps, 14 schools, 3 children’s homes, a clinic and a school for blind children. The training college has 22 cadets. It operates on a tightly restricted budget, so there is no money for luxuries such as books, making the library sparse. Basic needs are met but the cadets and officers live extremely frugally.

The Army is renowned for its school for the blind and visually impaired. Captain Nicola Muir – an officer from the UK – is director of boarding and works tirelessly to ensure the children are well cared for in every respect. They range from 3 to 18

a living selling fruit at small stalls by the side of the road and children entertaining themselves in various ways on the streets, day and night.

The Caribbean is a complex territory, operating in 16 countries, with 10 different currencies and at least 3 different formal languages, as well as Creole and Jamaican patois.

Expensive flights make visits to divisions difficult and territorial events are rare. It also makes it hard to build relationships, manage various situations that arise and join in celebrations and divisional events.

The territory has 130 corps and 29 institutions, including children’s homes, feeding programmes, health clinics, early years education and homes for senior citizens. The Salvation Army’s biggest impact in communities is through basic schools for children aged 3 to 6, of which there are 131. Our basic schools require a small fee to attend but the classes are much smaller than free government schools. Even so, the fees do not cover costs. Many Students learning teachers and staff at braille Salvation Army schools do not receive a regular or full salary through lack of funds, which also means facilities

years and are taught by professional teachers, but when school has finished the care workers – house parents, caterers and Nicola – take over and often take the place of parents and family. The school has a small farm within its grounds, growing vegetables and fruit as well as breeding small animals with the aim of providing nutritional fresh produce and making it self-sufficient.

To really understand the context of the school you have to know that many parents in Jamaica cannot afford glasses for their children or, when told that glasses will be necessary, are under the impression that giving them to a young child will make their eyes lazy. So, they refuse corrective glasses for their children, whose eyesight then deteriorates.

Poor eyesight is quite common in young children. Nicola recently received a call from a hospital regarding a young girl named Sashauna, who is 11 and has had cataracts since birth. The high cost of this operation had prevented the cataracts being removed but, when Nicola told the hospital the family would not be able to afford it, the person on the other end of the phone line said there would be no charge! Nicola took a frightened Sashauna to the hospital, remained with her for two days and nights and witnessed a December 2018 miracle when the dressings were removed and this young girl saw clearly for the first time in her life.

Stories of transformation are common but so is the ongoing struggle for good health, good nutrition, good education and a decent standard of living. The Salvation Army continues to fight for social justice and bring the transforming power of God into these situations, because the real Caribbean is so much more than sand, sea and sunshine.

LIEUT-COLONEL MAIN IS TERRITORIAL SECRETARY FOR WOMEN’S MINISTRIES, CARIBBEAN

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FUNDRAISING FEATURE

RIDING IN LONDON, RUNNING IN BERLIN Angela Carlucci looks ahead to two opportunities to raise funds for The Salvation Army RIDE LONDON 4 AUGUST THE acclaimed Prudential RideLondon cycling event continues to celebrate the legacy created by the London 2012 Olympic Games. Starting in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park it stretches through the Surrey countryside – with its leg-testing hills! – and then back into central London for a thrilling finish along The Mall. The event is a cyclist’s dream as the roads are closed off, making it possible to take in the iconic London sights.

Two of our Team Sally Army riders in 2018 were Caren and Tony Street (pictured). I caught up with Tony to find out how they got on.

‘In 2018, for the third year running, I took part in the 100-mile Prudential RideLondon event,’ says Tony. ‘To add to the fun, Caren joined me and tackled the 46-mile event on the same day. We raised £1,042 to support the Stotfold Corps minibus that provides transport for members of the community who may otherwise struggle to get out and about. It is also a fantastic resource for youth events. The minibus service is provided free of charge but is obviously not free to run. The money we raised in donations supported the continuation of this service and resource.’

Cyclists can take part for their own corps or project if they have a ballot place, or can apply for one of our charity places, although availability is limited.

BERLIN MARATHON 29 SEPTEMBER THE marathon route passes some of the city’s top sights, including the Reichstag and Berlin Cathedral. The Berlin Marathon boasts a fast, flat, world record-breaking course, which is ideal if you’re looking to beat your personal best, and the carnival atmosphere also makes this a great event for first-time marathon runners.

If you’ve applied in the 2019 ballot, or know someone who has, and you receive the exciting news that you have secured your own place in the Berlin Marathon we will be thrilled if you would join our team.

By running for Team Sally Army with your own place you can support The Salvation Army’s work. Alternatively you can support a corps or centre project of your choice.

If you haven’t been successful we also have a small number of charity places for the race, for which we set a minimum sponsorship pledge in order to raise much-needed funds for The Salvation Army. If you would like to apply for one of our places, please get in touch.

Don’t miss out on your opportunity to be part of something amazing!

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For more details of these events visit salvationarmy.org.uk/ ride-london or salvationarmy.org.uk/berlin-marathon

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Contact the Community and Events Fundraising Unit by emailing challenge@salvationarmy.org.uk or calling 020 7367 4819

ANGELA IS COMMUNITY AND EVENTS FUNDRAISING MANAGER, THQ

INTERVIEW

RESEARCHING SALVATIONIST Promotions and Marketing Co-ordinator Richard Smart (THQ) tells Salvationist about a recent survey of opinions about the publication WHAT WAS THE AIM OF THE RESEARCH? We set out to find the opinions of readers and non-readers of Salvationist among officers, soldiers, adherent members and anyone else connected to The Salvation Army. We wanted feedback from as many people as possible and are delighted with the response.

HOW DID YOU ORGANISE THE SURVEY? In the first phase we sat down with 20 people from corps in different parts of the country, then followed this with an e-survey. For the e-survey we had the support of ComRes, a leading market research company, which ensured that all responses were kept confidential and in line with the Market Research Society code of conduct. A total of 658 people took part, with a good gender balance and responses from all parts of the territory. So a big thank you to all those who helped.

e-publication or news online. They felt this could be more immediate, environmentally friendly and accessible to friends.

Half those asked wanted to see Salvationist go online. Regular readers, however, were keen that a print version was still available for them. So, there could be a real ‘win-win’ here, with Salvationist still being published as a paper but also online, reaching more people connected to the Army.

WHAT WAS THE REACTION TO THE TITLE OF SALVATIONIST ?

When people were asked about the title they were generally happy that the title Salvationist described the publication well.

Some felt it was a little old-fashioned and less inclusive but, for most, the title was felt not to be a barrier to reading or passing on a copy.

IN LIGHT OF THE RESEARCH WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND? Like a good sermon there are three key recommendations that came out of this piece of research. First, to ensure the Salvationist design is modern and contemporary. Second, to support this with an online presence of Salvationist. Third, to encourage lapsed readers to re-engage with the publication through the online version and social media.

WHAT DID THE RESULTS LOOK LIKE? A large proportion of respondents (82 per cent) were readers of EDITOR’S RESPONSE Salvationist, whether they were active or retired officers, soldiers, I am grateful to Richard for organising this research. Much of it adherent members or supporters. The results show that 22 per made encouraging reading but there is no room for cent read it from cover to cover, 38 per cent read most of it, complacency. It’s important that we take note of the results 25 per cent read some of it and 15 per cent skim read. These are and follow up the recommendations. This has already begun, exceptional results. Readership tended to be stronger in the with an online version of Salvationist set to appear later older age groups. Readers generally felt it added much to their this year. corps and spiritual life. It kept them up-to-date with Salvation O To request a fuller report of the research findings, contact Army news and connected them to other corps and people they knew. Of most interest were news or features on Army work, richard.smart@salvationarmy.org.uk interviews, testimonies and new commitments.

Richard Smart with Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts WHAT ABOUT NON-READERS? Non-readers who responded tended to be lapsed readers (12 per cent of respondents) while some non-readers had never read Salvationist (6 per cent of respondents). The main reason was that that they did not see the magazine as contemporary. Often they were younger than readers, and the internet and social media were their first point of communication and information. What they want to hear about is not that different from what readers want but they want it presented in a more contemporary manner and internetled.

HOW COULD SALVATIONIST BE IMPROVED FOR READERS AND NON-READERS? Readers and non-readers were keen to see an Salvationist 2 February 2019

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BIBLE STUDY

BE STRONG! STUDY PASSAGE: ACTS 19:11–20

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T the end of our last study, we left Paul beginning a threeyear preaching programme in the lecture hall of Tyrannus, with signs of early success. However, the work of God never goes unchallenged, and Paul would need to remain strong against physical and spiritual opposition.

Today, some instances of demon possession recorded in the Bible might be understood as mental illness. For example, some scholars believe that the boy who fell into the fire (see Matthew 17:15–18) had epilepsy. However, there are still cases that can be explained only on a spiritual level.

In one of our early appointments, a woman hovered nearby and followed us around a Christian bookshop, muttering to herself. ‘She’s a poor wee soul,’ the sales assistant told us.

Later, as we drank coffee in the café, the woman stood up and spoke directly and aggressively to us,

Major Steven Turner reminds us of the need to be equipped with God’s authority and power naming us as Christian leaders, though we had never met.

On another occasion, while knocking on doors during an openair meeting, the response I received left me physically and emotionally shaken. These and other encounters convince me that there exists spiritual opposition to the Christian gospel, much as Paul discovered on his travels.

QUESTIONS O Do you believe in the Devil?

O Have you encountered spiritual opposition?

O How have you responded?

In Acts 19, Luke records how God helped Paul deal with spiritual opposition. ‘God did extraordinary miracles through Paul’ (v11). The method of healing was rather unusual – through ‘handkerchiefs and

aprons that had touched him’ (v12).

Luke makes clear in this case that it was God who worked the miracles, as acts of grace, to enhance the credibility of Paul’s teaching and to highlight the transformational power of the gospel. We must beware of substituting rituals and objects for the direct power of God. In the superstitious Ephesian culture, objects belonging to practitioners of magic were believed to have special power. Perhaps people picked up Paul’s discarded sweat-cloths and work aprons and took them to their friends and relatives, believing they had healing power through contact with Paul.

In almost all cases in the New Testament, healing was by the laying on of hands or a word of command (see Acts 3:6 and 7, 9:34, 14:9 and 10). Apart from the handkerchiefs and aprons in Acts 19:12 the only things

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While knocking on doors during an open-air meeting, the response I received left me physically and emotionally shaken. These and other encounters convince me that there exists spiritual opposition to the Christian gospel

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

by Major Howard Webber

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SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Be strong in the grace of the Lord,/ Be noble and upright and true,/ Be valiant for God and the right,/ Live daily your duty to do.

(SASB 948)

You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus… Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

(2 Timothy 2:1 and 3)

I’ve little strength to call my own,/ And what I’ve done, before thy throne/ I here confess, is small;/ But on thy strength, O God, I lean,/ And through the blood that makes me clean,/ Thou art my all in all.

(SASB 588)

mentioned in healings were Jesus’ cloak (see Matthew 9:20) and Peter’s shadow (see Acts 5:15).

QUESTIONS O Have you experience of extraordinary healing, and how did that come about?

O Do you believe that God still heals today, and do you pray for the sick?

The second major event was the unmasking of some pagan magicians posing as followers of Jesus. These men, who claimed to be sons of a Jewish priest, tried to mimic the power of God as seen in Paul by invoking ‘the name of the Jesus whom Paul preaches’ (v13).

Paul had laid hands on various people with miraculous results. This came about because Paul was

himself filled with the Holy Spirit after God sent Ananias to lay hands on him. Clearly this had not happened for the sons of Sceva. They were denounced and set upon by the evil spirit whom they tried to cast out.

God’s power and authority come through the presence of the Holy Spirit within us. We should be wary of misusing that authority and be ready to call out misuse of that power or authority in others.

QUESTIONS O Do you recognise God’s power at work in your life?

O Who in your life has demonstrated the authority of God in a positive way?

O Have you experience of people misusing God’s authority, and how did you react?

Word soon spread of the failed exorcism. Violence is frightening to all but the most hardened people. It should not surprise us to hear of the mix of fear and awe in which the name of Jesus was held. In Middle Eastern culture, a person’s name signifies the character and status of the individual. Suddenly, everyone was taking note of the name of Jesus. They confessed their evil deeds and burnt their scrolls – a sign that they had renounced their old ways. Luke highlights the great monetary value of the scrolls: 50,000 drachmas, over 130 years’ wages!

I remember a corps officer telling me that he had been a military drummer but, on entering The

Salvation Army’s training college, he decided to renounce drumming as it may have taken him away from his calling. On the other hand, I also came across a young man who burnt his entire music collection on becoming a Christian. His mentor thoughtfully asked if it had really been necessary.

If we compare the biblical accounts of the rich ruler (see Luke 18:18–24) and Lydia, a wealthy businesswoman (see Acts 16:13–15), we note that what matters is not what we own, but whether it distracts us from following Jesus.

QUESTIONS O Have you burnt any ‘scrolls’ since becoming a Christian?

O Is there something you need to give up in order to serve God fully?

Some years after the experiences recorded in Acts 19 Paul wrote a letter to the Ephesians emphasising God’s power at work in them and the need to be alert to spiritual opposition.

He called them to ‘be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power’ and to ‘put on the full armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand’ (Ephesians 6:10 and 13).

We would do well to follow Paul’s lead as we face spiritual opposition in our society today.

MAJOR TURNER IS ASSISTANT TO THE SECRETARY FOR SCOTLAND

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though the waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.

(Psalm 46:1–3)

I would be true, for there are those who trust me;/ I would be pure, for there are those who care;/ I would be strong, for there is much to suffer;/ I would be brave, for there is much to dare.

(SASB 648)

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learnt the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

(Philippians 4:12 and 13)

I’ll go in the strength of the Lord,/ In paths he has marked for my feet;/ I’ll follow the light of his word,/ Nor shrink from the dangers I meet./ His presence my steps shall attend,/ His fullness my wants shall supply;/ On him, till my journey shall end,/ My unwavering faith shall rely.

(SASB 959)

Prayer

Father God, however I may appear to others, I am weak. I need you to empower me daily with your Holy Spirit. Only with the strength you give am I able to step out of my comfort zone, assured that you will provide all I need to stand firm for you.

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NEW COMMITMENTS

Some photos removed

BALLYMONEY: Marbeth Roberts was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Major Jane-Marie Cook. Marbeth first made contact with the corps through the midweek befriending project. A friend invited her to attend on a Sunday, which she has continued to do. Marbeth says she feels a real sense of belonging. – T. C.

CLOWNE: As a committed Christian, Carol Holland started worshipping at the corps about five years ago, becoming involved with children’s activities and Messy Church. After being challenged during a sermon, Carol began her journey towards soldiership and was enrolled on Commitment Sunday by corps officer Major Elaine Holder. Also pictured is Elaine’s husband, Mark. – J. M.

KILBIRNIE: Tom Fagan, Christine Graham and Joy Wilson were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Lieutenant Wendy Leisk. All three chose their favourite songs. Tom chose ‘All That I Am’, Christine, ‘I’ll Not Turn Back’ and Joy, ‘My Jesus, I Love Thee’. – W. L.

BURNLEY: Three adherent members were welcomed by corps officer Captain Maisie Veacock. Dee Burns started to attend and introduced a friend and her sister; all have now become active members of the fellowship. Pictured with Captain Maisie are Ivy Chadwick, Jan Hurrell and Dee. – M. V.

BEDLINGTON: Supporters travelled from as far away as Geneva when Majors Linda and Mark Billard (Severn and Somerset DHQ) enrolled their nephew, Calum Montgomery, as a soldier. In his testimony, Calum made reference to the music ‘Prelude On “Lavenham”’ and spoke of the Alpha course, which had helped answer many questions for him.

– S. C.

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AMMANFORD: John Banks was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Major Geoff Bonsell.

John thanked the congregation for ‘not giving up’ on him. – G. B.

NEWCASTLE CITY TEMPLE: Ruth Vickers was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Major Kim Gotobed. – W. I.

BELFAST SYDENHAM: Paul Bond was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Major Ian McBride. In his testimony Paul expressed his gratitude to the congregation for the many years of love and support he had received, which helped bring him back to faith, and confirmed that the time was right to make the Army his spiritual home. – I. M.

REGENT HALL: Gordon Fry was enrolled as a soldier by territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill, who were instrumental in introducing him to the Army some years ago.

Gordon testified to a varied spiritual journey, but knew that doing the will of God was all he wanted to do. Pictured with Gordon are corps officer Major Richard Mingay, Commissioners Anthony and Gill and Recruiting Sergeant Major David Jackson. – R. M.

AYR: Three new soldiers were enrolled by corps officer Major Linda Watson. Family and friends supported Avril Wagstaff, Lorna Murdoch and Ralph Riddiough as they made their promises to God, and all three testified to the presence of God in their lives and told how they had come to this point of commitment. – L. W.

SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD: Danielle Winch chose to sing a solo ‘Bow The Knee’ when, supported by friends and family, she was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Peter Clark; the words of the song have special significance for her. They are pictured with Recruiting Sergeant Major Eddie Arnold. – R. B.

REDRUTH: Corps officer Captain Lisa Goble welcomed Angela Jago and Richard Dunstan as adherent members. Both started attending Sunday meetings regularly through the drop-in activity. – E. S.

NORTHAMPTON: When Lexi McKenzie was enrolled as a junior soldier by corps officer Major Janice Snell, she signed her promise at the mercy seat surrounded by junior soldier friends. Each young person, including a baby of six months, was allocated a prayer partner who stood with them for a time of prayer. – N. R.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE MARRIAGE O Thomas Morgan to Joanna Felstead at Swindon Gorse Hill by Captain Sandra Hall WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Platinum (70th) O Bandsman Ken and Audrey Yardley, Halifax (12 February) DEDICATED TO GOD O Penny Ellen, daughter of CSM David and YPSM Caroline Smith, at Sunderland Millfield by Major Karen Clark RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Major Mrs Doreen Prince (85 on 14 February) O Major Sheila Parmenter (80 on 16 February) BEREAVED O Wendee Stephenson, Clacton, of her husband Ernie O Ann Taylor, Stranraer, of her husband John, Captain Wendy Brown, Bourne, of her father O Major Christine Hird of her husband Major David Hird O Major Mervyn Marshall of his wife Major June Marshall PROMOTED TO GLORY O Cyril Ambrose, Clacton O Major Audrey Bartlett from Arrowe Park Hospital, Wirral, on 18 January O Mabel Radcliff, Prescot O Major David Hird from Singleton Hospital, Swansea, on 23 January

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Major June Marshall from South Tyneside Hospital on 23 January

TRIBUTES IVY BEDFORD, BOGNOR REGIS IVY was promoted to Glory at the age of 103. She joined The Salvation Army at Wood Green, where she married Stan.

She subsequently served at Radcliffe and Welling before retiring to Bognor Regis.

Always active in corps life, Ivy held several positions and made a positive impact on those she met during her lifetime of faithful service.

She spent the last year of her life in a nursing home in Norfolk, where she passed away peacefully. She is sadly missed by her family and corps friends. – F. B.

MAJOR VALERIE HOPE COMING from an unhappy home, Valerie Turner was taken by neighbours to The Salvation Army, where she learnt to love and serve Jesus.

While still a teenager, Valerie was told to leave home because of her faith, and she began working for The Salvation Army in homes for girls, entering the Defenders of the Faith Session at the training college in 1964.

In 1968 Valerie married Captain Richard Hope and moved to Alderney – where her practical faith proved outstanding – and had her eldest daughter.

On revisiting the island, more than 20 years later, she was thanked by islanders for the positive influence she

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE: O ICO,Th 7 Feb O ICO, Sun 10 O Canada and Bermuda Territory (Canadian Staff Band 50th anniversary weekend), Wed 27 – Mon 4 Mar THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM: O ICO (farewell to session), Fri 15 Feb THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL: O Swanwick (pioneer gathering), Mon 4 Feb O Leicestershire (Central East divisional retreat), Mon 11 – Wed 13 O Hoddesdon (divisional leaders consultation day), Fri 15 O Harlow, Sun 17 O Poole (Youth Makes Music), Fri 22 O Northampton (Intercultural Mission Conference), Fri 1 Mar – Sun 3 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL LEE GRAVES) AND COLONEL DEBORAH GRAVES: O Scotland council, Th 7 Feb * O Poole (Youth Makes Music), Fri 22 O East Midlands (divisional leaders retreat), Wed 27 – Fri 1 Mar *Chief Secretary only

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had had on people’s lives and on the community.

Returning to England the Hopes transferred to goodwill work and had a second daughter. Valerie left The Salvation Army, and during this period belonged to other churches, became a foster parent to several difficult children and volunteered at a psychiatric hospital.

Called back by God into the Army and officership, she was appointed to Notting Hill Goodwill Centre, which received an accolade from The Big Issue for being the best place to eat if you were experiencing homelessness in London, and appeared in the Salvation Army documentary, God’s Army.

Ill health became a serious problem but, despite this, Valerie was for a time a member of the Association of Christian Counsellors and a team leader for Premier Christian Radio’s helpline.

The messages read out at her thanksgiving service testified to what Valerie believed: she had a great God – One who took a poor, young, unhappy girl and, by his Spirit, made her into a woman who had a vital spiritual impact on the lives of so many people. – R. H.

JOHN ASHWORTH, BURTON-ONTRENT JOHN became involved with the corps after some of his family members had started attending. His interest increased after discussions with the corps officer and, in 1995, after giving his heart to the Lord, John was enrolled as a soldier.

Being a lovely pianist, he began to play for the songsters. Many times he brought great blessing during the collection through his thoughtful and inspirational playing. John then learnt to play the tenor horn, always giving of his best in support of the band.

He was a perfectionist but it made no difference to him whether he was involved with his lessons with a classical pianist or playing to the Evergreen over-60 club.

He also became involved with the food bank, taking responsibility for many years.

John was always interested in people, showing great concern when they were ill and always being prepared to do anything for them when he could. He is sorely missed. – K. A.

ADVERTISEMENTS

Salvationist 2 February 2019

21-23

‘ Employees, friends, members, officers, volunteers – we have them all in The Salvation Army!

We’ve asked various people to tell us about themselves. This week…

MAJOR MARK HERBERT Divisional Commander, South East How did you first come into contact with the Army?

I was sent to the Army Sunday school with my two brothers and two sisters, simply to give my parents some peace and quiet on a Sunday morning!

What made you want to become an officer?

As a six-year-old I saw something in my corps officer that I wanted to be like.

What is the most interesting thing about your role?

The variety of the people I get to meet and the responsibilities I have. … and the most frustrating?

The length of time it sometimes takes to get things done.

What one thing would you change about the Army?

I would make it more joyful.

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

A mixture of relaxing by the pool, lying on a beach and visiting cities.

If you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose and why?

William Wilberforce. His epitaph reads: ‘He was amongst the foremost of those who fixed the character of their times.’ I would love to see what that looked like.

What do you do in your spare time?

Run, cycle, watch sport, drink coffee and avoid gardening.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up (Galatians 6:9)

If you were to create a slogan for your life, what would it be?

Someone has to do something, it may as well be me.

What sport would you compete in if you were in the Olympics?

I would want to be the cox in a rowing event. It doesn’t look like you have to do much to get a medal!

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If you could invent a gadget what would it be?

Something that turns the volume down on the team I am part of. They can be noisy and unruly at times!

Did you have a nickname growing up?

Herbie.

What is your favourite food?

Steak (cooked rare).

If you could bring back any fashion trend what would it be?

Flared jeans and long hair.

What was the first record, tape or CD that you ever owned?

Mud’s Greatest Hits (1975).

What is your favourite Bible verse?

‘Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up’ (Galatians 6:9). This verse constantly reminds me that I promised to serve God ‘supremely, all my days’.

Which Bible figure would you like to meet and what would you ask them?

Benaiah, ‘a valiant fighter’ (2 Samuel 23:20). Normal people run away from lions – why did you chase a lion into a pit on a snowy day?

If you could rid the world of one thing what would it be?

Yogurt. It is one of the few things I don’t eat.

Which book would you want on a desert island?

The Leadership Challenge by James Kouzes and Barry Posner. After years of reflecting upon leadership, this is still the best leadership book I have read.

If you had to be handcuffed to one person for a day, who would it be?

Rafa Benitez, the Newcastle manager.

It would give me the best seat in the house to watch the football team I have supported since I was a boy.

If you had a ‘theme song’ that played whenever you walked into a room, what would it be?

Monty Python’s ‘Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life’.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Your appointment is not your identity.

What do you consider to be the most valuable thing you possess?

The memories and experiences from watching our three sons grow into men of integrity and courage.

Something interesting you might want to know about me is…

I am a qualified cricket umpire.