Salvationist 30 nov 2013 by The Salvation Army UK and Ireland

SALVATIONIST

Essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army // www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 30 November 2013 // No. 1426 // Price 60p // Also available digitally

We waitâ&#x20AC;Ś with patience Romans 8:25

Pages 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 13

CONTENTS 3.

FROM THE EDITOR

4. PAPERS This week’s quotes from the papers and From the archives 5. – 9. NEWS Kenya East // Kenya West // The Philippines // Newbiggin-by-the-Sea // Consett // Bishop’s Stortford // Hoxton // Korea // IHQ // Southsea // Alnwick // Cramlington // Wickford // Newbridge // Letchworth // Kinlochleven // Gravesend // Shaw // Bootle // Govan // Abertillery // Tunstall // Cirencester // Norwich Citadel // 8.

NEW TESTAMENT BIBLE READING CHALLENGE

10. & 11. God’s way with me

12.

ICO FEATURE

12. & 13. FEATURE The man in the top hat and tails 14. An eternal solution

BIBLE STUDY

15. THINKALOUD Look back in gratitude 16. & 17. NEW COMMITMENTS 18. & 19.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

20.

LETTERS

21. The Christmas Collection 21. – 23. 24.

REVIEW

ADVERTS THROUGH THE WEEK WITH SALVATIONIST

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated 2

Salvationist 30 November 2013

FROM THE EDITOR

TIME TO CONSIDER AS Scottish readers celebrate St Andrew’s Day my thoughts turn to the disciple who in the gospel accounts so easily seems to get lost behind his brother Simon. I suppose it’s the sort of thing that can happen in any family or in any group – some people are just less visible than others. But the accounts we read of him are significant. When Jesus challenged his disciples about feeding five thousand people, it was Andrew who identified the boy with a lunch which, when placed in the hands of Jesus, fed the multitude. According to John’s Gospel Andrew was ‘one of two’ disciples who first followed Jesus and recognised him as the Messiah; he then brought his brother to Jesus. Although Andrew might not have been as visible as Simon, he was perceptive and managed to see things that others missed. One person who, during the past 18 months, has been highly visible around the territory and through the pages of Salvationist, is Andy Peddle. On his walkathon, with the help of Salvationists and friends, he has raised a staggering £91,000 and is hoping – with a little more help – to reach his target of £100,000. Many people have been inspired by his efforts, including the proprietor of Monachty Hotel, Aberaeron, who gave accommodation to Andy and his drivers when they were travelling between Tenby and Aberystwyth. The walkathon has raised much-needed funds and also highlighted the Army’s ministry to homeless people and victims of human trafficking. Laura Barker speaks to Andy about his walkathon experiences on pages 12 and 13. Also in this issue (pages 10 and 11) three ICO delegates share their testimonies. One of them was brought up in a

SALVATIONIST GENERAL INQUIRIES (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Laura Barker – (tel) 020 7367 4893 Kersten Rieder – (tel) 020 7367 4894 Captain Andrew Stone – (tel) 020 7367 4892 DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter – (tel) 020 7367 4895 DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza – (tel) 020 7367 4896 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Archie Bagnall – (tel) 020 7367 4883 ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino – (tel) 020 7367 4881

Salvation Army orphanage, another recalls significant places and another might never have been born. Their stories highlight the potential that God sees in each of us. On page 14 John Coutts writes about visiting Gravesend for the 130th corps anniversary. John reflects on the ways our Army corps change – which he refers to as ‘opportunities offered by God’. He concludes with an invitation to speak about the changes you might have experienced – ‘with helpful clues how to respond’. Why not take up that invitation and share your experience through the letters page? Advent begins on the Sunday nearest St Andrew’s Day and in the weeks leading up to Christmas we have once again asked UK officers serving overseas to contribute to the Bible study series which starts on page 14. Major Richard Oliver, who is serving in Brazil, encourages us to consider our expectations. Come, thou long-expected Jesus, Born to set thy people free; From our fears and sins release us, Let us find our rest in thee. (SASB 79)

MAJOR JANE KIMBERLEY

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A registered newspaper published weekly by The Salvation Army (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) on behalf of the General of The Salvation Army and printed by Wyndeham Grange, Southwick. © André Cox, General of The Salvation Army, 2013. The Salvation Army Trust is a registered charity. The charity number in England and Wales is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

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THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL André Cox TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Clive Adams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Martin Hill

Salvationist 30 November 2013

PAPERS

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS CHURCH IS ONE GENERATION FROM EXTINCTION, WARNS EX-ARCHBISHOP The Church of England is just ‘one generation away from extinction’, a former Archbishop of Canterbury has warned. Lord Carey of Clifton… said the existence of the country’s centuriesold established Christian order was at severe risk unless more was done to attract young worshippers… ‘We have a problem getting people to church because it is not something that is natural to people in their lives nowadays. There is a prevalent view that people don’t want to hear what we have to say any more. How can we say that? ‘One of the most worrying, most urgent groups we need to invest in is young people. We ought to be ashamed of ourselves. We are one generation away from extinction – if we do not invest in young people there is going to be no one in the future.’ The Times

BARONESS SAYS CHRISTIANS IN THE MIDDLE EAST FACE EXTINCTION Christianity in the Middle East faces extinction, a Government minister has said… Lady Warsi offered the warning at a speech at Georgetown University in Washington… following recent attacks on Christians in Syria, Egypt and Pakistan… Lady Warsi said: ‘A mass exodus is taking place, on a biblical scale. In some places, there is real danger that Christianity will become extinct.’ Expanding on this point in the Daily Telegraph, Lady

Warsi wrote: ‘There are parts of the world today where to be a Christian is to put your life in danger… From continent to continent, Christians are facing discrimination, ostracism, torture, even murder, simply for the faith they follow. Christian populations are plummeting and the religion is being driven out of some of its historic heartlands…’ While leading a Westminster Hall Adjournment Debate on the persecution of Christians in the Middle East… Fiona Bruce MP highlighted increasing reports of ‘extreme persecution’, and said: ‘We should be crying out with the same abhorrence and horror that we feel about the atrocities towards Jews on Kristallnacht and on other occasions during the Second World War.’ The Catholic Herald

CHURCH EMBRACES WOMEN BISHOPS The Church of England turned its back on decades of division… and voted overwhelmingly in favour of women bishops. The General Synod, the Church’s governing body, voted 378 in favour and 8 against, with 25 abstentions to move forward with legislation to consecrate women. The vote, a significant turnaround after last November when an earlier attempt to consecrate women failed, is a strong indication that there will be the necessary two-thirds majority to pass the measure when all three Houses of Bishops, Clergy and Laity reconvene for a final vote in about a year. The first women bishops could then be in line for consecration in 2015. The Times

FROM THE ARCHIVES – TEN YEARS ON

Phillip and Fern help pass the parcel ON the set of ITV1’s This Morning, with presenters Phillip Schofield and Fern Britton, are Salvationists Andrea Stock (Regent Hall) and Richard McIntosh (Bromley Temple). The photograph will help promote the UK Territory’s Pass The Parcel campaign, being run in conjunction with This Morning and health and beauty retailer Superdrug. Television viewers are being urged, for the fifth consecutive year, to donate toys and other gifts for the Army to distribute to needy people this Christmas. News in ‘Salvationist’ dated 29 November 2003

Salvationist 30 November 2013

NEWS The General and Commissioner Cox lead Spirit-filled gatherings KENYA EAST NEARLY 8,000 Salvationists gathered from across the vast territory to meet under the leadership of General André Cox and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Silvia Cox. The visit was a time of spiritual renewal for many people. At Jomo Kenyatta international airport, Nairobi, the world leaders were welcomed with applause and shouts of joy. They were greeted by Territorial Commander Commissioner Vinece Chigariro, officers, cadets, local officers, bands, songsters, timbrelists and friends of The Salvation Army. The General told them: ‘It is my prayer that God will make The Salvation Army a great army for his glory.’ Highlights of the visit included a soldiers meeting led by Commissioner Silvia Cox, who challenged all present to keep the promises and the covenants they entered into with the Lord. More than 1,000 attended a men’s fellowship and 4,000 gathered for a women’s rally. Officers councils at Nairobi Central Corps were attended by more than 500 active and retired officers and 36 cadets. The General challenged all present not to take the sacredness of their calling for granted. Many officers responded to the General’s message by kneeling in prayer at the mercy seat. At Kabete Children’s Home the young people received their visitors with songs of praise. They were thrilled to learn from the General that he was born in Africa and he considers himself to be an African. Moving on to the Nairobi Girls’ Training Centre, the General dedicated to God and officially opened a new computer lab equipped with eight new computers funded by the USA Central Territory. At the main gathering almost 8,000 Salvationists from all corners of the territory met at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre, Nairobi, for a Sunday morning holiness meeting led by the international leaders. The meeting was enhanced by contributions from Youth Gospel Dance, timbrels and vocal groups. Nairobi Central Band and the territorial songsters provided excellent support. In his Bible message, the General spoke about the Christian’s ‘heavenly citizenship’. He warned against self-seeking among Christians and advised all to seek first the Kingdom of Heaven. The altar call resulted in a large number of seekers committing them-

selves to a life of following Christ, with many responding also to the call to serve as officers.

Lives and buildings dedicated to God during General’s visit KENYA WEST

The next day the international leaders visited Salvation Army schools and centres in the town of Thika. As well as meeting pupils and staff at the schools for the visually impaired, the General had the opportunity to meet two former pupils who have used their education to great success. One is now a secondary school teacher and the other – the Hon Isaac Mwaura – is a Member of Parliament in the Kenyan National Assembly. At Variety Village the General visited the workshops. Before leaving the territory, the General and Commissioner Cox spent time with cadets at the training college. – J. M. provide income and support – to keep pressing on with what is planned to be an everexpanding enterprise. On Saturday, more than 800 active and retired officers, sergeants-in-charge, envoys and cadets congregated for officers councils. In the afternoon the General upgraded the Shikulu Outpost to corps status – just over half a year after he and Commissioner Cox had opened the outpost. Commissioner Cox said in her Bible message that the Holy Spirit enables God’s people to win more souls. Sunday was the climax of the visit, as more than 10,000 Salvationists and friends filled Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega to salute the international leaders and join in worship. The governor and other political figures were present. In his Bible address the General emphasised what God expects from his people. Telling his listeners they should live holy and godly lives, he advised them to be wise when working with others. He said: ‘Let your conversations be full of grace and grow in holiness.’ As the band played ‘I Know He Cares For Me’, more than 400 people renewed their commitment to God at the mercy seat. – R. M.

SALVATIONISTS and friends were overjoyed to welcome General André Cox and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Silvia Cox back to the territory. The familiarity did nothing to dampen the excitement of the territory’s Salvationists, a number of whom joined territorial leaders Commissioners Kenneth and Jolene Hodder and other senior officers to welcome the international leaders at Kisumu airport. The next day the international leaders led the staff and cadets at the training college in laying the foundation stone at the new Education and Training Centre in Forestal. The General remarked that a college is a place of preparing cadets to go and reach out to people. At Forestal Primary and Secondary Schools the visitors prayed for students preparing for exams. On Thursday, Commissioner Cox led Kakamega Division in the dedication to God of a new divisional headquarters. She said: ‘The new building should be used for God’s work... for God’s glory.’ In another special ceremony the General led Salvationists of Kakamega Central Corps in laying the foundation stone of their new hall. In the afternoon the international leaders met and interacted with Worth groups in Kapsabet District. They encouraged the women The General and Commissioner Silvia Cox join women from taking part in the projects Worth groups as they dance with excitement at Kamobo Corps – community groups that Salvationist 30 November 2013

NEWS Salvation Army in The Philippines remains at the heart of typhoon response THE PHILIPPINES THE Salvation Army in The Philippines has increased its collaboration with other agencies to provide help to the people affected by Typhoon Haiyan who need the most urgent assistance. At the time Salvationist went to press, much of the 54 tons of food, water and medical supplies that had been gathered in Manila was still waiting to be transported to Tacloban for distribution across the Island of Leyte. A ‘cluster co-ordination system’ was set up to ensure that all agencies work together, and The Salvation Army is working within the system, attending cluster meetings that address logistics, health, food, shelter, non-food items (NFI) and protection. The programme of support to people evacuating from Tacloban airport continued to assist up to 1,000 people every day. At cluster meetings the potential for human trafficking was highlighted as an immediate concern, so a registration facility was set up in a tent at the airport. The Salvation Army received a tent next to this at which it provided refreshments and sandwiches. Thanks to arrangements made through a partnership with The Salvation Army in the USA, the Chief Executive Officer of the Christian Medical and Dental Association of the USA (CMDA) Dr David Stevens arrived in Manila with a team of four colleagues to join forces with Salvation Army medical staff on Leyte. The emergency response team in Tacloban worked to identify the areas for its first big distribution. Consideration was also given to an additional food project for the areas outside of Tacloban that hadn’t received 6

support. With transport continuing to be a major issue, inquiries were made in Cebu to purchase food and other items, along with a truck to transport the supplies to Leyte. A warehouse owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was used for storage – a vital element in the process.

For the people who remain on Leyte, shelter was a great concern. There was nowhere to obtain tarpaulins which could be used to waterproof damaged houses. The Salvation Army has been considering ways to bring in roofing sheets that could provide a simple, longer-term solution. – A. R.

NEWBIGGIN-BY-THE-SEA: Band weekend commenced with a programme of old and new pieces presented by Northern Divisional Fellowship Band. Highlights included ‘Rosehill’ and ‘I Will Enter His Gates’. The corps band led Sunday worship with Bible readings, testimonies and solos. – P. H.

Brian played ‘Such Love’. Hayley sang ‘Everywhere’ and ‘Trust In The Lord’ and Andrew played ‘Count Your Blessings’ and ‘Nessun Dorma’. The home sections also contributed to praise and worship

throughout the weekend. Pictured are corps officer Captain Heather Alston, Commissioner Ingeborg Hughes, Hayley, Brian, Commissioner Alex Hughes and Andrew. – H. K.

In a thought-provoking message Gareth Evans encouraged the congregation to put their trust

in God. The band is pictured with corps officer Lieutenant Rob Davis. – R. D.

Commissioners challenge to consider future CONSETT COMMISSIONERS Alex and Ingeborg Hughes led the 135th corps anniversary. Guest soloists Brian Mercer (piano, North Shields), Hayley Stubbs (vocal, Derby Central) and Andrew Justice (trombone, Enfield) shared their talents throughout the weekend. The commissioners challenged the congregation to consider reflecting on the past and the saints who had gone before, but also the future of the corps. As well as accompanying the other soloists,

Youth band shares enthusiasm for the gospel BISHOP’S STORTFORD A CAPACITY congregation gathered at the Methodist church to hear London North-East Divisional Youth Band present a challenging and enjoyable concert. The varied programme included ‘Fanfare’ and ‘Guardian Of My Soul’ and testimonies from Elliot Smith and Paul Mitchinson.

Salvationist 30 November 2013

Delegates encouraged to explore their purpose HOXTON AROUND sixty people of various ages from London Central Division gathered for the divisional discipleship and leadership

school Explore and Explorers. The event, led by DHQ staff and officers from the division, posed the question ‘Who Am I?’ and was aimed at encouraging delegates to discover their purpose and place in the Church. The youth stream welcomed visitors from the France and Belgium Territory. – S. W./I. W.

NEWS Salvationists take part in World Council of Churches assembly KOREA FOUR Salvation Army officers were among thousands of church leaders who gathered in Busan, Republic of Korea, for the tenth Assembly of the World Council of Churches (WCC). The Salvation Army delegation was headed by International Secretary to the Chief of the Staff Commissioner William Cochrane (IHQ). He explained: ‘As a distinctive part of the wider church, it’s good for The Salvation Army to engage with fellow Christians and to share in fellowship, prayer and celebration of what unites us.’ Territorial President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Vibeke Krommenhoek (Norway, Iceland and The Færoes), Territorial Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Jim Champ (Canada and Bermuda) and Territorial Ecumenical Officer Major John Read (United Kingdom with the Republic of Ireland) also travelled to Busan

for the event. They joined Korea Territory officers Territorial Commander Commissioner Park, Chong-duk, Chief Secretary Colonel Kim, Pil-soo, Divisional Commander Major Son, Suk-young (Kyung Nam) and 27 cadets who were present for the opening ceremonies. With the theme, God Of Life, Lead Us To Justice And Peace, the first meeting of the assembly honoured the diverse traditions of Christian worship. The gathering prayer included deeply moving litanies of lamentations, cries and hopes from the churches in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East,

North America and the Pacific; 345 different churches were represented at the assembly.

Moderator of the WCC Central Committee the Rev Dr Walter Altmann declared the assembly open – with video and written greetings following from Pope Francis and the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople Bartholomew I. Dr Altmann’s opening address described ‘peace with justice’ as a theme central to the work of the ecumenical organisation. He outlined the Council’s desire to provide ‘expanded space for meeting, spiritual exchange and dialogue’. The assembly also included thematic plenaries on Asia, mission, unity, justice and peace. – A. R.

At the conclusion of his walkathon, Andy Peddle is welcomed at IHQ by Commissioner William Cochrane; in recent days Andy visited Greenford Corps and his home corps at High Wycombe where he received a cheque for £5,823

NEWS IN BRIEF

Café church highlights talent SOUTHSEA MAJOR Joyce Dixon led Sunday evening café church showcasing various talents in the fellowship. Eight corps members prepared Burmese food, sang ‘Jesus Christ Our Saviour’ and spoke about Christian life in their home country of Myanmar.

O Fifty-one people at

Corps officer Major Mary Wolfe sang ‘I’m His Own Child’, home league member Hilary Westbrook recited a poem, Nikki Bone sang ‘The Prayer’ and Dave Morris and Mike Stubbings played a cornet duet, ‘The Londonderry Air’. The Pompey Pluckers ukulele group led community singing and Mark Rigby shared the Bible message. – T. M.

Cramlington gathered to celebrate the Harvest weekend led by Majors Robert and Barbara Davies. O A wellattended Harvest meeting at Alnwick, led by CSM Lucy Riley (Cramlington), was followed by a fellowship supper.

Salvationist 30 November 2013

NEWS

WEEK 40 Monday 2 December 1 Timothy 6 – Paul gives instructions about false teachers and the love of money O vv1 and 2: replace ‘master’ with ‘employer’ and ‘slave’ with ‘employee’ and see if these instructions can be applied in everyday Western working life. O v10: have there been times when you have been tempted to focus more on money and possessions than on being faithfully obedient to God? O vv17–19: what does that mean and how could you apply this to your own life?

At Wickford members raise £1,500 on the 30th annual 20-mile sponsored walk to benefit the corps mission project in Romania and support the Army’s anti-trafficking response

Musical centenary celebrations LETCHWORTH

Tuesday 3 December 2 Timothy 1 – Paul encourages Timothy to remain loyal and steadfast in the faith O v3: Timothy appears to be a third-generation Christian, but his own faith had to be ‘sincere’. Is your faith built on a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ or is your faith based on keeping up a family tradition? O v14: did you know that the Holy Spirit lives in us and guides us? How can we ask for his help? Wednesday 4 December 2 Timothy 2 – Timothy is told to oppose those who have ‘departed from the truth’ (v18) O vv3–7: first the ‘soldier’, then the ‘athlete’ and then the ‘farmer’; what lessons do you think Paul is trying to teach? O v18: Paul condemns those who claim that the resurrection had already taken place. What can we learn from this? How might this verse help substantiate the belief in a future rapture of the Church? Thursday 5 December 2 Timothy 3 – The contrast is made between holiness and selfishness O v7: do you know anyone who is ‘always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth’? O v8: Paul appears to have been referring in the preceding chapters to ‘teachers’ (faith-related). Does this surprise you? O vv16 and 17: how important and relevant do you think these verses will be for you and your faith in 2014? Friday 6 December 2 Timothy 4 – Paul emphasises the importance of sound doctrine O v1: once again Paul implies that the judgment of the dead will be a future event. What can we learn from this? 8

Salvationist 30 November 2013

Band brings blessings

SALVATION Brass led a weekend as part of the corps centenary celebrations. The band held two open-air meetings, gave a lively Saturday evening concert and led Sunday meetings. The weekend, which attracted new people to the fellowship, concluded with an arrangement of ‘Total Praise’. – D. F.

NEWBRIDGE IN the presence of the Mayor and Mayoress of Caerphilly County Borough Council (Councillor Michael and Mrs Ruth Gray) Sheffield Citadel Band began its visit to Abertillery and Risca Corps with a festival at Newbridge Comprehensive School. Highlights included ‘Fire In The Blood’, ‘The Present Age’ and a saxophone solo ‘Down By The Riverside’ by Laura Robinson (pictured). On Sunday, the band split to lead meetings at both corps. – A. B.

At Kinlochleven, Peter McCorkindale faithfully collects £252 for The Big Collection by sitting outside the Co-op for five days

NEWS Tesco values founding officer GRAVESEND THE 130th corps anniversary celebrations began with the unveiling of a plaque in Tesco, marking the original site of the corps. The Mayor (Councillor Derek Sales) and Mayoress (Pam Sales) joined corps folk and Tesco staff for the unveiling. Later, past and present corps members attended a buffet and a festival presented by Chalk Farm Band. Bandmaster Michael Clack compèred the programme, which included cornet, xylophone and Eb bass solos. Other items appreciated by the large congregation included ‘Treasures From Tchaikovsky’ and the male voices singing ‘Finlandia’. Former corps members John Coutts (Stirling) and his wife Heather led Sunday meetings; on Monday, in Abney Park Cemetery, London, a wreath was laid on the grave of Captain Harriet Charteris, the founding officer. – J. H.

War Cry memories at anniversary SHAW ARCHIVE reports from The War Cry in 1882 were included in the Sunday meetings to mark the 131st corps anniver-

sary led by Major Ken Lawson. The previous evening St Michael’s Church (Middleton) Brass Band presented a varied music programme, supported by the songsters. The Chairman of the Parish Council (Councillor David Murphy) attended. – N. T.

BOOTLE: Members of the Sunday morning congregation took to the streets to prayer walk the town centre and the area around the hall. Other members of the congregation, who remained at the hall, gave prayer support. – J. H.

NEWS IN BRIEF O Abertillery Band played at

the Remembrance Service. Members of the Royal British legion then joined the morning meeting at the corps. O Ross and Rhianna Leighton from Tunstall were chosen by their respective schools to sound Last Post in the Remembrance Service. O Cirencester Band played at the Remembrance Services in Bibury and Ablington and Songster Leader Helen Grace sounded Last Post and Reveille at Siddington and the Armistice Day service in Cirencester. O The Lord Mayor of Portsmouth (Councillor Lynne Stagg) attended the Service of Remembrance at Southsea. O At Norwich Citadel excerpts from the Gowans/Larsson musical Glory were presented at a Sunday evening meeting.

Lurgan songsters bring unlimited love GOVAN SONGSTER weekend started with a Saturday festival by Lurgan Songsters, who chose the theme Unlimited Love. The programme included ‘Sing For Joy’ and ‘He Is Exalted’ and Songster John Murdock (euphonium) played ‘Donegal Bay’. A touch of humour was added by the male songsters’ rendition of ‘Just A Little Talk With Jesus’. A thought-provoking drama preceded the theme song ‘Unlimited Love’ before Songster Sergeant Jenni Power shared from

God’s word. The evening concluded with ‘The Lord Bless Thee And Keep Thee’. In the Sunday morning meeting the visitors’ corps officer Captain David Williamson spoke about Unlimited Grace. During Laura Kerr’s solo, ‘Let Him Touch You’, two people knelt at the mercy seat. In the afternoon programme the songsters sang ‘God Of My Praise’, ‘Breathe On Me’ and a new song ‘His Promise Stands’ (words Commissioner Keith Banks, music Andrew Mair). God’s presence was felt in a mighty way throughout the weekend, which concluded with the corps and visiting songsters singing ‘A Jubilant Song’. – C. R. Salvationist 30 November 2013

ICO FEATURE family and taking no responsibility for the home; I had to do everything. We entered training in 2002, but later I developed a high fever and took two weeks to recover. God used this time to work in my husband’s heart, and he made a change in his life. From that time we have shared our responsibilities and have a Godblessed relationship. I did not want to go to our first appointment – a rural village in Bangladesh – but I knelt down with humbleness and obeyed God. We learnt to love and serve the village community and I had a very good relationship with the Lord.

GOD’S WAY WITH ME Three delegates from Session 219, studying at the International College for Officers and Centre for Spiritual Life Development, share their experiences

CAPTAIN NIPU BAROI, BANGLADESH

LIFE hasn’t been easy for me. I lost my father – a soldier and employee of The Salvation Army – when I was six. He was the wage earner for our large family of ten; I am the fifth daughter. I was blessed that the Army admitted me into the girls’ orphanage, where I was raised in a Christian atmosphere. I came to know the love of Jesus and received him as my personal saviour when I was studying in grade nine and preparing for a Bible quiz competition. I wanted to marry a pastor – and the boy I loved wanted to be an officer! We married in 1995 and applied for officership, but were turned down twice. As a result, my husband became angry and stopped going to the corps. The desire to be an officer was still on my heart, so I led the YP class and went regularly to corps activities with our little daughter. One day the corps officers came to visit us, bringing us candidates’ forms. I talked this over with my husband, but he ignored me. I filled up both our forms and submitted them. The night before our interview I told him about it, but he said I must face it alone. I was nervous and upset and could not sleep; I prayed all night to the Lord for something to happen. In the morning I saw that my husband was getting ready for the interview! At that time he loved to spend time with his friends, caring little for his 10

Salvationist 30 November 2013

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I DID NOT WANT TO GO TO OUR FIRST APPOINTMENT... BUT I KNELT DOWN WITH HUMBLENESS AND OBEYED GOD

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Presently we have separate appointments. My husband is the youth and candidates officer and I am the assistant projects officer. My busy schedule has meant less time to spend with the Lord, but the ICO experience has given me opportunity to restore the relationship; the inner peace that seemed so distant has returned. I praise the Lord for his abundant blessings and grace upon our family. MAJOR BRIAN SAUNDERS, USA WESTERN

GOD’S way with me has always been about places – places he has taken me and places where he has met me. As an officer’s child and now an officer myself, I have visited and lived in many places all around the world but cherish a few as sacred spaces where God has turned a common, everyday location into holy ground. One such place is Camp O’Wood, the Army’s former summer camp nestled in the mountains of Arizona. It was there that, as a ten-year-old boy, I first accepted Christ. Working at camp for seven years taught me

much about ministry, leadership and friendship. Eleven years later I knelt at that same altar and accepted my calling to officership. Three years after that, I used that same altar again – this time to propose to Leticia. A special place indeed! Another very special place is the chapel at the Western Territory’s College for Officer Training. This was our first appointment and our first home as a family, where our son Holden was dedicated to God and enrolled as a junior soldier.

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GOD’S WAY WITH ME HAS ALWAYS BEEN ABOUT PLACES – PLACES HE HAS TAKEN ME AND PLACES WHERE HE HAS MET ME

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During 22 years of officership, I have had 3 college appointments and 11 years on staff. I have spent many hours in the chapel – worshipping, preaching, counselling and praying. The altar is my favourite spot, another very special place.

Room 427 at Straub Memorial Hospital in Honolulu, Hawaii, is also very special to me. It is the room from which my wife was promoted to Glory. After a series of illnesses that kept her in the hospital for four months, Leticia called me and our son to the hospital. She said that she had met with God, and he had simply told her it was time to come Home. The battle was over; it was time to stop fighting. It was time, she told me, to let her go. Two days later, God ushered her into his Kingdom as Holden and I held her hands. Room 427 had become sacred ground. These places are not sacred in themselves. They are holy because God was there. He met me at camp, at the training college and in that hospital room. His presence made them sacred; his power made them holy. I praise God because wherever he meets us is indeed ‘holy ground’. MAJOR EBENESER NOGUEIRA, BRAZIL

I WAS born at Recife in northeast Brazil. The doctors told my mother that it was a high-risk pregnancy, and – as she already had three children – it would be best to abort the child, as she or the baby would die during childbirth. But she decided to pray and continue with the pregnancy. All went well, which is why my parents called me Ebeneser: ‘Thus far the Lord has helped us’ (1 Samuel 7:12). My family are all Baptists. My father was a deacon, and I thought I would go to Heaven on a prize ticket with the rest of the family. But during a youth congress, the preacher said something that shocked me: ‘God doesn’t have grandchildren, only children.’ That night I realised I was lost. At the age of 11, I accepted Jesus and became a child of God. When I was 15, I had a God-transforming experience and, following my calling, entered the Baptist Seminary at 16. In my fourth year, a friend asked me to help organise the Sunday school at his church – The Salvation Army – which I did. At one point I went to a young people’s camp, where an officer testified about how he became a Salvationist. His story was very similar to mine and I felt God speaking to me. The appeal focused on officership and I began to wrestle within.

Then someone started singing, ‘Jesus, I have chosen you as my lord! My right is to not have any right, my desire is your desire’. I knelt at the mercy seat and told the Lord that I’d serve him wherever he wanted me.

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LOOKING BACK AT WHAT GOD HAS DONE IN MY LIFE, I SAY WITH THE PSALMIST: ‘WHAT SHALL I RETURN TO THE LORD FOR ALL HIS GOODNESS TO ME?’

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I became a Salvationist and met my wife during a candidates meeting. We went into training at the same time, but didn’t start dating until afterwards. We married in 2000; Eliana is God’s gift to me! We are the corps officers at Rio Comprido. My brother and mother are now soldiers and my two nieces are junior soldiers. Looking back at what God has done in my life, I say with the psalmist: ‘What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me? (116:12). Salvationist 30 November 2013

FEATURE

The man in the top hat and tails Andy Peddle (High Wycombe) chats to Laura Barker about his epic 7,760-mile walkathon

Andy walking the streets of Broughty Ferry

NDY, who is 70 years old, has just completed a Salvation Army walkathon, visiting 980 Army corps and centres and meeting thousands of Salvationists throughout the territory. Setting out in May 2012, Andy eventually marched through the doors of THQ on Monday 18 November 2013, marking the end of his epic journey. Twenty years earlier, Andy undertook a similar challenge, visiting every Oxfam shop in the UK, raising money for the 12

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severe famine in the Horn of Africa. This time Andy has raised £91,000 for the Army’s work with homeless people and the victims of human trafficking and is hoping to reach a target of £100,000. Andy, you’ve finished! How do you feel? I feel less tired now than when I started. Also, perhaps, a little disappointed in some ways; this is a lifestyle – you get into a groove and you enjoy doing it and meeting so many people. There is an element of trepidation about what is going to

come next. But, oh yes, it is great to get to the end of it! What made you want to do another walkathon? You get to retirement age and think, ‘What am I going to do?’ I still had a lot to offer, a lot of energy to expend and I was keen to do something useful. I looked at the interests I have, one of which is walking, and another is The Salvation Army. Also I wanted to express my thanks to God for all the blessings over the years, so it all came together and evolved into this walk.

'You must have met some amazing people'

How long did it take to plan? I began to plan it a couple of years before I started out. I had the idea and marked up all the Salvation Army corps and centres on a map. I then talked to Carol, my wife, and she wasn’t particularly excited about the prospect, so it went on the shelf for about six months. We got around to talking about it again and she said: ‘Well, if it’s something you feel you’ve got to do, I’ll go and live in Wakefield [near family] while you’re doing it.’ It was a big challenge I felt it was within my capability, but I soon found myself doubting I could do it physically. It seemed too big a challenge, but God gave me strength. I could cope by looking at it a day at a time. Each day I looked at the schedule and thought, ‘Yes, I can do that.’ So I did it; then the next day I did the same thing again. That’s how I got through the whole thing. Who has supported you? The walkathon wouldn’t have happened without the drivers. I had a team of around 12 regular drivers. They made it very interesting; it was great to have the drivers’ encouragement and their spiritual uplift at times. What are your highlights? My spiritual highlight was walking along the highlands of Scotland. It’s so beautiful there. I was listening to the ‘Hallelujah’ chorus on my iPod. I was singing at the top of my voice when I suddenly realised I was singing: ‘The Lord God omnipotent reigneth’. I must

have sung it a hundred times before but didn’t realise the words. It was one of those awesome moments in life. At that point it became a pilgrimage rather than a walkathon. You must have met some amazing people In Scotland, I met a chap called Brian. I walked passed this totally overgrown garden. A voice came out of the wilderness and said: ‘What you doing, then?’ He took me into his cottage, which was probably worse than the garden. He opened up a chest of drawers and took out all of his copper and silver, put it into a brown paper bag, gave it to me and said: ‘This is for what The Salvation Army did for me. I was homeless and The Salvation Army cared for me.’ That donation was so precious. As you can imagine, there are lots of stories like that. Were there times when you wanted to give up? There have been a lot of those. The worst came when we were heading towards Edinburgh. At first, people weren’t particularly interested in what we were doing. We went to two or three places on the trot and no one was there. It was just devastating. I’d had enough and went home. I went back to my wife and she looked at me and said: ‘You’ve never quit at anything in your life!’ And so she encouraged me to go back. It had been a very low moment, but God supported me and I carried on. You have worn a top hat and tailcoat during the walkathon, and at each stop

you sang ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’; where did these ideas come from? The song is very relevant. No one is lonelier than homeless people and the victims of human trafficking, but the words are relevant to everybody. We’ve all had times when we feel alone, when we don’t feel good or when life is tough. The outfit? Well, if you’re walking in top hat and tails people will wonder, ‘What is that silly man doing?’ and will stop and ask me, and it opens up conversations. Although you do feel very silly on occasions! What’s next? I think for a little while I’m going to put my feet up and ponder that question. We’ll go on holiday – probably a walking holiday! Would you do it again? I don’t think I’d do anything as strenuous again. I don’t think, physically, I could do it. It depends what comes up really. Do you have a lasting memory? I was walking in Wetherby in the dark when I noticed two police cars had pulled up in front and behind me. The officers started walking towards me – it was a bit of a scary moment. It was a case of mistaken identity. A patient had released himself from a nearby hospital three days earlier, and apparently he looked a bit like me. Someone phoned the police and said: ‘It’s him! He’s walking along the road in top hat and tails.’ They interrogated me, but realised I was doing a walk for The Salvation Army. Anything can happen – you never know what’s round the corner! Salvationist 30 November 2013

BIBLE STUDY

An eternal solution Major Richard Oliver presents the first of an Advent series by UK officers serving overseas

HE apostle Paul writes: ‘In hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience’ (Romans 8:24 and 25 New Revised Standard Version). On Fridays at a supermarket in Suzano, Brazil, there are super discounts on the price of meat. This promotion draws hundreds of people who form queues and wait expectantly and patiently. One particular day, the queue took more than three hours to pass. The supermarket had made all the announcements, the butchers had prepared all the meats and then it was just a case of waiting your turn to be served. But what about waiting for the arrival of the Saviour of the world more than 2,000 years ago? Did that have the same kind of pre-announcements? It’s quite obvious that the timeline from the prophecy of Isaiah to the actual birth of Jesus was much more than three hours. The reality is that many, many, years passed. One definition of Advent describes it as ‘a season of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas’. It could be said that there was some ‘misleading advertising’ about the coming of the Saviour; it’s just as well there was no consumer watchdog in those days! Were the people expecting a newborn child? Were they really expecting a King born in the humblest of surroundings? We are led to believe that they were 14

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waiting for a warrior: one who was going to lead them and liberate them from slavery and Roman domination. They were waiting for the coming of a saviour, the chosen one who was going to be the solution to all their problems. Was it really likely that a small newborn boy was going to meet their expectations?

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WITH THE BIRTH OF JESUS... WE ARE ABLE TO FIND THE ANSWERS TO ALL OUR NEEDS

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Just like them, people in the supermarket queue occasionally are let down. After their long wait, the meat is often not the quality they were expecting. Sometimes it has all been sold by the time they get to the front of the queue, or they have to accept something different from what they were expecting. In both these situations, the people waiting expectantly were looking for something specific – something that would serve in the way they wanted, a short-term solution that was going to resolve their problem immediately. However, God sent his Son as a long-term investment – an eternal solution to the needs of the world, rather than a ‘snappy happy’ one. Jesus was sent as a solution for what had happened before his coming, for what was happening at that time 2,000 years ago, for what is happening today in 2013 and for what is going to

happen in the future. The waiting seemed like an eternity, but God’s response was for eternity. We all have hopes, fears and expectations – just as it says in the carol, ‘O Little Town Of Bethlehem’. The affirmation we have here is that, with the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, we are able to find the answers to all our needs. But, whatever the situation, we have to wait patiently and expectantly. Life is full of ifs and buts, maybes and maybe nots, but Jesus himself gave us clear guidelines in John 10:10: ‘I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full’ (NIV). We began, and now end, with Paul: ‘For we know only in part, and we prophesy only in part; but when the complete comes, the partial will come to an end… Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known’ (1 Corinthians 13:9–12 NRSV). Wherever you are waiting, however long you’ve been waiting, whatever you’ve been waiting for, your Advent is complete with the birth of Jesus Christ. Make no mistake: God had an eternal purpose in sending his only Son. And that purpose can impact your life this Christmas.

MAJOR OLIVER IS STATIONED IN BRAZIL

THINKALOUD

LOOK BACK IN GRATITUDE

suggests John Coutts

RECENTLY I paid a visit to Gravesend, an historic town where Father Thames comes face to face with the open sea. I had been invited back to old haunts in order to celebrate the 130th corps anniversary. When The Salvation Army first arrived there, its marching evangelists were met by hostile watermen – the ‘sons of Neptune’ – and a riot followed. But the soldiers of Jesus stood their ground and found a base in Mrs Ruddock’s Music Hall, which served as the corps building until redevelopment of the town centre. Then the Army marched off to new premises, while a Tesco store arose on the site. Recently, as part of the birthday celebrations, a commemorative plaque was unveiled on the supermarket wall (see corps report on page 9). Much water has flowed down the Thames since the heady days of 1883. At the time of the riot, the short-lived British Empire was on the rise. Now it has been and gone – along with the deluding dream of Communism and the ghastly nightmare of Nazi domination. In those days countless people emigrated from the British Isles to seek a better life in distant continents, and thousands of them set sail from Gravesend. That flow has been reversed, as successive waves of immigrants – also seeking a better life – have flowed into Britain. Not far from the present Gravesend hall stands the largest Sikh Gurdwara in Europe – a magnificent ‘cathedral’ attracting Sikhs from all over the United Kingdom and beyond.

LOOK AROUND WITH CONCERN

Times have changed too in the world of belief. When the pioneer Salvationists clashed with the sons of Neptune, neither side would have doubted that they were living in a Christian country. Not any more. Recently a distinguished judge, Sir James Munby, declared that he and his fellows sit ‘as secular judges serving a multicultural community’. Times have changed at Gravesend Corps as well. A generation ago it boasted a flourishing children’s and youth work. Now the older generation maintain a faithful witness, but younger faces are missing. It’s an all-too-familiar situation. Over the past 20 years I have led worship in churches and Army corps north and south of the border – and all too often my children’s talk wasn’t needed. Meanwhile, larger ‘magnet churches’ emerge as Christian parents take their offspring to places of worship with active children’s and youth work. And who can blame them? LOOK FORWARD IN HOPE

But where does that leave the rest of us? Some believers may be tempted to echo the despairing cry of Hezekiah, king of Judah: ‘The children are come to the birth and there is not strength to bring forth’ (2 Kings 19:3 Authorised Version). But, as Hezekiah discovered – read the rest of the chapter! – there was still hope. The living God was at work in new and unexpected ways. And that’s true today. Back in Scotland, Stirling Corps has witnessed the steady promotion to Glory of the faithful stalwarts who long sustained it.

Extinction beckons – or does it? In fact, things are turning out differently. Our social programme has breathed new life into the place. Just a dozen of us gather to worship on a Sunday morning – but the building is buzzing throughout the week. Sadly, we don’t work with children, but just down the road – at St Mark’s Parish Church – Stuart, the friendly Church of Scotland Minister, has started a youth club. Meanwhile, the Agape Church – a mainly though not exclusively African group – meets and worships in our hall on Sunday afternoons. Many of its members are young professionals whose outlook and opportunities are very different from friends who meet at the Recovery Church on Saturday evenings to share videos, prayer and pizza. Some of the latter are fighting the good and arduous fight against booze and drugs. Sometimes we feel that we should all do more to integrate – but what would that mean? Should we communicate in the Scots tongue or in so-called ‘standard English’? Ought we to ‘sing from the same hymn sheet’ or join in the same worship songs projected onto large screens? Meanwhile, back at Gravesend, the latest group of newcomers has arrived. They are Roma from Eastern Europe – a community often persecuted and sometimes suspected. Unlike the Sikhs, many of them are Christians, and a Roma group has recently begun to worship in their native language in our Salvation Army property. How will they relate to the existing corps? Our living and surprising God keeps offering us new opportunities. Dear readers, do tell us about them – and give us helpful clues about how to respond.

JOHN LIVES IN STIRLING Salvationist 30 November 2013

NEW COMMITMENTS

2. 3.

6. 1. HARRY CALCUTT Soldier WELLINGBOROUGH FAMILY and friends supported Harry as he was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Paul Church. As part of the ceremony, the youth group read from Ephesians 6:10–18, emphasising the importance of truth, righteousness, peace, faith and salvation. Harry thanked all who had helped him in the past and asked the congregation to support him in prayer for the future. – F. P. 2. & 3. KATH HUDSON Adherent member JESSICA LAYTON Junior soldier HULL ICEHOUSE AFTER Kath moved to Hull a friend invited her to the Army. She testified to feeling at home as soon as she walked through the doors. Kath is actively involved in helping with luncheon club and the charity shop. She was warmly welcomed to the fellowship as an adherent member and looks forward to starting soldiership classes. Jessica was enrolled as a junior soldier by her uncle, Captain Phil Layton (Hythe). Family and friends travelled to witness Jessica make her junior soldier’s promise. For her testimony, she sang ‘Jesus Loves Me’ with her cousin and younger brother. – S. S. 4. JAN (NAN) WOOD Adherent member OLDBURY AFTER a relative died, Jan found herself searching for a church. 16

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5. Through previous connections with the Army, she decided to attend and became an active member of the KidzKlub team. Corps officer Lieutenant Lydia Bartlett welcomed Jan as an adherent member. – R. S. 5. CALLUM LEGG, EMILY HOLLOBONE Junior soldiers KETTERING CITADEL DIVISIONAL leaders Lieut-Colonels Mike and Wendy Caffull enrolled Callum and Emily as junior soldiers. The children have shown that they want to love and serve Jesus. – T. H. 6. PAMELA NEWNHAM Adherent member BRIGHTON BEVENDEAN FORTY-THREE years ago, Pamela started attending the Army with her Salvationist carer, Diana Salvage (pictured right). Pamela enthusiastically participates as much as she is able and was welcomed as an adherent member by Major Beryl Mead. – G. L. 7. RACHAEL WINCH Junior soldier SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD RACHAEL grew up in the Army and received words of encouragement from other junior soldiers, who told her what she had to look forward to. – S. W.

8. DIANE NORTON, BARRY LASKEY Adherent members NORWICH CITADEL DIANE spent her formative years at the Army but later joined another church. Eventually she decided to return and received a warm welcome. Diane is actively involved in corps life and chose to make a commitment. Barry loves music – especially brass bands – and was influenced by working alongside one of the corps bandsmen. An invitation to the Christmas celebration meetings led him to attend the corps regularly. He has become involved in many activities and commented on the warmth of welcome he received. Diane and Barry are pictured with corps officers Major Andrew Diaper-Clausen, who welcomed them as adherent members, and Major Ingrid Diaper-Clausen. – M. M. 9. TONY BUTLER Adherent member LOWESTOFT CITADEL TONY wanted to show his commitment to God and The Salvation Army and was welcomed as an adherent member after attending the Army for a number of years. – A. W.

10. ROSIE CLOUSTON, CATHY GRAHAM, NELLIE ROBB, ELSPETH WELLS, JIMMY GRAY Adherent members LIAM MILLER, JOSH GRAHAM, HANNAH MACMILLAN, MORGAN SWEENEY Junior soldiers BO’NESS CORPS officer Lieutenant Tim Lennox welcomed Rosie, Cathy, Nellie, Elspeth and Jimmy as adherent members and enrolled Liam, Josh, Hannah and Morgan as junior soldiers. Liam shared that he enjoys learning about God, and Josh expressed his desire to worship Jesus and belong to the church family. Hannah wanted to know more about Jesus and enjoys being part of the Army. Morgan testified that when she goes to the Army, she feels and knows that God loves her. The four junior soldiers were supported by their mentors at their enrolment. – T. L. 11. & 12. SEREN DANCY, KATHERINE KILLICK Junior soldiers PENGE SEREN and Katherine were warmly welcomed into the corps fellowship as Major Sylvia Lane enrolled them as junior soldiers. – K. S.

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10. Salvationist 30 November 2013

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTED Effective 21 October: O Major Robert Davies, Chaplain, Swan Lodge Lifehouse, Sunderland Effective 7 November: O Major Carol Back, additional appointment, Area Safeguarding Adviser, Anglia O Captain Paul Cooper, additional appointment, Area Safeguarding Adviser, Anglia O Major Janet Martin, additional appointment, Practitioner Corps Officer, Camberwell O Captain Martyn Watson, Walsall Effective 14 November: O Major David Hubbell, Associate Officer, Lewisham Effective 2 December: O Lieutenants Jane and Jonathan Bishton, Eccles and Openshaw Effective 16 December: O Major Christine Kingscott, Pastoral Support Officer, Southern Region Effective 2 January 2014: O Lieutenant Karin Bruinewoud, Colchester Mount Zion O Major Fiona Sayer, change of designation, Manager, The Shield Project, Aberdeenshire Effective 9 January – 15 May: O Majors Pat and Stuart Risdale, Chaplains, Belfast Sydenham Effective 6 February: O Major Marjory Parrott, Newry WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond: O B/S/Reservists Ken and Joy Kilgour, Greenock (12 December) Golden: O Fred and Marian Smith, Hendon (formerly Chalk Farm) (23 November) O Majors Raymond and Mavis Mackereth (14 December) DEDICATED TO GOD Jamie, daughter of Will and Samantha Gannon, at Cardiff Canton by Major Sharon Willetts O Alexandra Maria Rose, daughter of John and Michelle Copehart, at Merthyr Tydfil by Lieutenants Andrew and Lorraine Warriner O Amelia

BEREAVED O Captain Helen Schofield, THQ, of her brother Harry 18

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O Jenny

Catcheside, Staines, of her mother Lillian White O Rtd SL Nathaniel Graham, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, of his wife Nan, Morag Hindson and Christine Dobson of their mother RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: O Major Mrs Margaret Fairlie (80 on 7 December) O Major Stuart Booth (90 on 7 December) O Lieut-Colonel Janet Pallant (85 on 10 December) PROMOTED TO GLORY Mrs Commissioner France DelcourtBardiaux from France on 11 November France Bardiaux was born to officer parents in 1919. She entered training in 1942 from Monnetier-Mornex, France, as part of the all-women Valiant Session. In 1943 she married Raymond Delcourt. After the loss of their first son Patrick at the age of two, they were blessed with a daughter, Marie-France and two sons, Renaud and Bertrand. While bringing up her children, Mrs Delcourt-Bardiaux shared in her husband’s ministry. They created and developed La Légion de Jeunesse (Junior League) and in 1945 directed the first Porteurs de Flambeau

(Torchbearers) camp. Their ministry contributed to numerous young people becoming Salvationists. Appointments followed at France THQ and NHQ in the British Territory. While in Paris she extended her own ministry by visiting prisoners at Fleury Mérogis. As National Secretary of Women’s Ministries and then Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, France, she encouraged women officers and inspired great interest in the Home League. Commissioners Raymond and France Delcourt-Bardiaux retired as territorial leaders of France in 1980. A thoughtful, observant and caring person, Mrs Commissioner DelcourtBardiaux was promoted to Glory at the age of 94, having served for 70 years as a Salvation Army officer.

TRIBUTES MAJOR WENDY BURLINSON WENDY BURLINSON entered the training college in 1965 at the age of 19 from Sunderland Monkwearmouth, although she always considered herself as belonging to Ryhope Corps. Wendy had been introduced to The Salvation Army in Ryhope by a school friend and soon afterwards made the transition from the Independent Methodist

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL ANDRÉ COX AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: O Australia Southern, Tu 26 Nov - Mon 2 Dec O Italy and Greece, Sat 7 - Mon 9 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER WILLIAM ROBERTS) AND COMMISSIONER NANCY ROBERTS: O Liberia (25th anniversary celebrations), Th 5 Dec - Tu 10 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER CLIVE ADAMS) AND COMMISSIONER MARIANNE ADAMS: O High Leigh (Appointments Conference), Sun 1 Dec O Palace of Westminster (Parliamentary carol service), Th 5 O Ireland, Fri 6 - Mon 9 O William Booth College (spiritual day), Th 12 O South and Mid Wales, Sat Sun 15 O Visits to Central London social services centres, Wed 18 O THQ (carol service), Th 19 O Hadleigh Employment Training Centre (carol service), Mon 23 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: O High Leigh (Appointments Conference), Sun 1 Dec O Palace of Westminster (Parliamentary carol service), Th 5 O Reading Area Retired Officers Fellowship, Th 12 O St Helier, Sat Sun 15 COMMISSIONER BIRGITTE BREKKE-CLIFTON: O ICO, Fri 6 Dec COMMISSIONER GILLIAN DOWNER: O Taiwan, Th 28 Nov - Sun 8 Dec COMMISSIONERS TORBEN AND DEISE ELIASEN: O USA Eastern, Sat 7 Dec - Fri 13 INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND: O Palace of Westminster (Parliamentary carol service), Th 5 Dec

Church to the Army corps. She made a commitment to become a soldier and was an active corps member until it closed prior to her entry into training. Her first appointment after commissioning in 1967 was to New Basford. This was the first of many such appointments and Wendy embraced each one and their differing challenges with quiet determination. She retired from Shotton Colliery in 2006. During retirement Wendy continued to serve God in a variety of ways. She became involved with the corps at Seaham Harbour, the Independent Methodist Church near her home and the chaplaincy team at the hospital and hospice. She also made it her business to get to know her neighbours. She considered all these as God’s opportunities to live out her calling. She described herself as a quiet person, but never let this get in the way of what God wanted her to do – sharing his love in practical and spiritual ways. She took an interest in the people around her and would readily share a prayer when it was needed or willingly help out in practical ways. She loved and cared for people with her quiet, gentle spirit reflecting the presence of Jesus; this was evidenced in all her relation-

ships – within the church and in her neighbourhood. The major walked closely with the Lord. She knew God to be faithful and trusted him to help her with the challenges she faced. Her faith remained strong during her illness; she never doubted or questioned God, but simply continued to trust that he who had known best throughout her life would not let her down. Sadly missed by friends, neighbours and brothers and sisters in the Lord, she will be remembered by them as a faithful woman of God. – F. S.

LES ELLIOTT, LIVERPOOL WALTON LES was born in 1937, the youngest of three boys. He met Betty at Liverpool Walton Sunday school. They married in 1963 and enjoyed 50 years of happy life together. Their daughter Gaynor was born in 1965, completing the family. As a committed Christian and Salvationist from childhood, Les was actively involved with all sections of the corps and also took on

many leadership roles. He was a true Christian gentleman and was always an encourager and interested in people. Diagnosed with cancer in 2010, Les bore his illness with dignity and fortitude and is greatly missed by Betty and Gaynor, son-inlaw Kevin, family and friends. – B. E./G. V.

BANDMASTER SHEP COATES, WORKSOP SHEP was heavily involved in all aspects of Salvation Army life. This included teaching many young children to play musical instruments and being appointed over many years to the various roles of YP band leader, YPSM and – for the past 50 years – bandmaster, where his ability as a leader became very apparent. During his later years, Shep continued to be very active, playing his favourite instrument the Eb bass at the corps and in the East Midlands Fellowship Band. Notably, he is remembered as a significant figure in Worksop for his service at The Salvation Army and is sadly missed. – A. D.

Salvationist 30 November 2013

LETTERS AFTER THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW IT was good to turn on the television and see The Salvation Army represented at the Lord Mayor’s Show. The Household Troops Band and the timbrelists were a credit to the many bandsmen, songsters and soldiers throughout the territory. Their deportment and dress were exemplary and the standard of music was excellent. However, where oh where was the float highlighting the fact that the Army is a religious organisation that tries to put faith into action? Where was the emergency vehicle showing the support the Army provides when disaster strikes at home or abroad? Where was the explanation of the work the Army does with homeless, disadvantaged, displaced or trafficked people? So many charitable organisations took the opportunity to highlight their aims and the work they do and, consequently, a number of them were interviewed by TV reporters. This helped their message to go out to millions of people watching on television sets throughout the country and beyond. It is a pity the Army only showcased its musicians and missed out on a golden

opportunity to inform people about the tremendous work it carries out spiritually and practically in its corps halls and community and social service centres. Jim Kelly, Perth Secretary for Communications LieutColonel Marion Drew responds: The reason for taking part in the parade would be to celebrate our link with London and to highlight the fact that we are still an active Christian force for good in London’s communities. The 2013 Lord Mayor’s Show featured more than 150 organisations. Visually that is a lot for anyone to take in. So if we are to help people to make connections between who we are and what we do, it would need to be simple, clear, uncomplicated and instantly understandable. Therefore it seems that the best thing is to be just what we are – a distinctive, uniformed, worshipping and active denomination. Corps and individuals in their personal lives as Salvationists have the responsibility of reminding people they encounter of all we do and are as well. A parade cannot substitute personal testimony or evangelism and cannot communicate the amazing diversity of who and what we are.

IS GOD’S WRATH SATISFIED? FROM recent discussions on an internet forum, I gather that the decision has been taken not to include the song ‘In Christ Alone’ in the planned new song book on doctrinal grounds, the line in question being ‘The wrath of God was satisfied’. I would not claim to have any deep theological insight into this area, although Romans 5:9 seems to me to make much the same claim: ‘Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!’ While I feel it would be a great pity to miss out on what has quickly become possibly the most popular of all the modern hymns, I should not like to see anyone unwittingly led along an heretical path. That being the case, is it appropriate for us to continue to use it, as at the recent Territorial Congress (reported in Salvationist on 16 November)? Peter Bale, Westcliff on Sea Write to Salvationist (Letters), 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN or email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

WHAT A SACRIFICE! I WAS most interested to see the picture (right) and read the letter by John Carr (Salvationist 9 November) about the work of the Booth-Tucker memorial party that was sent to India. I too am a descendant of officers who were appointed to the work in the criminal tribes settlement. My grandparents were Brigadier and Mrs Alfred and Edith Allistone or, as they were known in India (now Pakistan), Ranjit Singh and Jeya Priti. We have many wonderful stories of how God protected them when working among the criminals. My grandmother nursed through a cholera epidemic and there were occasions when, through careful and humorous choices of actions, violent criminals were calmed and taught to respect the Army officers and had their lives changed for good. A lovely tribute to this work is the fact 20

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that one of their great-greatgranddaughters was named after my grandmother, Jeya – recognition of how important it is to identify fully with the people you work with and want to help in Christ’s name, as exemplified by William Booth himself. It would indeed be a great tribute to all who served in this manner if we recognised their dedicated service and acknowledged the sacrifice they and

their children made, as many were left behind and looked after in a home called The Lodge, situated close to Clapton Congress Hall. My mother and uncle were there for eight years without seeing their parents because missionary officers didn’t have homeland furlough at that time. What a sacrifice! Hazel Warren, Brighton

REVIEW

A WORTHY ADDITION TO ANYONE’S CHRISTMAS COLLECTION Major Len Ballantine (Canada and Bermuda) reviews The Christmas Collection by Salvacosta THIS CD is a collection of some of the best voices, varied songs and supple arrangements that I’ve come across in recent years; fresh, musical and rich in choral depth and expression – a worthy addition to anyone’s Christmas collection! The listener will be drawn immediately to the extremities of the vocal ensemble, as the bottom and top parts are most visible and boast outstanding voices. But this is to do a disservice to the innards of the group, which carry the tension in close

harmony work and need special commendation indeed. Bravo to the middlemen and women who batten down the hatches as we are led on a seasonal journey that occasionally finds us in a vocal snowstorm. Also, hats off to the production and technical team. Good decisions were made at every turning in this project. I commend the song choices and arrangements without question; these span the gamut from excitement and joy, to reverie and awe, without any jarring of contrasts

that can sometimes detract from the whole. For me, some of the most delicious moments are found in the a cappella items which are exquisitely carved into the frosted windowpanes of this imaginative and refreshing Christmas collection. O The Christmas Collection is available from SP&S priced £13.95 plus £2.95 postage and packing; 50 per cent of the proceeds will be donated to Children In Need

Salvationist 30 November 2013