For everyone linked to The Salvation Army
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SALVATIONIST NO AGE LIMIT GROWING IN YEARS AND FAITH
IS THERE SUCH A THING AS A RETIRED OFFICER? PAGES 10+11
No discharge in this war IT has been my long-held experience that the retirement of Salvation Army officers is simply the beginning of another chapter. Perhaps less frenetic or in an area of their choosing, but nevertheless a commitment to the calling that never leaves them: to serve. In this issue inspired by the International Day of Older Persons (1 October), we hear from some for whom this is a reality. There is a wealth of experience in older people that should not just be harnessed but celebrated. The Bible is filled with examples of God using more mature individuals, despite their reticence or incredulity. It is reassuring that God always has more in store. There may never come a time when my best work is behind me. I am in the hands of a miracle-working God who uses the experiences he has given me to prepare me for even greater things. That goes for you too! Certainly, there are always other souls for Christ to save (see Ecclesiastes 8:8), as General Frederick Coutts referenced in his book No Discharge in This War. Proverbs 16:31 reminds us: ‘Grey hair is a crown of splendour; it is attained in the way of righteousness.’ Bring it on!
8 GOD’S NOT DONE WITH YOU YET
9 A CLOSER LOOK AT AGEING
12 6+7
MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN Editor
ON THE WEBSITE Visit salvationist.org.uk Colin Salmon EastEnders star on growing up in the Army The Big Collection More information and resources
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SALVATIONIST
Issue No 1929 EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn
FOUNDER William Booth
MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford
GENERAL Lyndon Buckingham
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Simon Hope, George Tanton, Lyn Woods, Major Margaret Bovey
TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill
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IS THERE SUCH A THING AS A RETIRED OFFICER? PAGES 10+11
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Salvationist 30 September 2023
BIBLE STUDY
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NO AGE LIMIT GROWING IN YEARS AND FAITH
2
A LASTING INFLUENCE
© The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory. ISSN 2516-5909. The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland is SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland is CHY6399. Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by CKN Print, Northampton.
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SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS From the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated
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TRENDING
Reflect and respond Read Bramwell Booth’s 1901 pamphlet on vegetarianism at ordergoldenage.co.uk/articles/ vegetarianism. The Salvation Army Plant-based Network is for those who’ve chosen to become vegetarians or vegans. Email towardsveganism@gmail.com for more information. How do you respond to Genesis 1:29?
Veggie for a day… or longer? Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts encourages us to try a meat-free diet for World Vegetarian Day (1 October)
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HAT divisive thing from today could become commonly held tomorrow?’ That was a question put to historian Dominic Sandbrook on The Rest Is History podcast. He responded: ‘To me the obvious thing is vegetarianism. I’m not a vegetarian … but I think there will be a point when people look back on us and say: “They knew the damage they were doing – the cruelty and the ecological damage – and yet they still went out and ate their chicken korma or their fillet steak or whatever it might be.” I suspect that will be the thing that people judge us for.’ You might have a beef with this prediction, but there’s no doubt that the number of people becoming vegetarian has increased over recent decades. This was boosted by 1960s counterculture, but it didn’t begin then. People started promoting a meat-free diet at least as far back as 500BC in India and Greece. Modern vegetarianism developed in the early 19th century, when Christian groups began to advocate it. The first
vegetarian society was formed in 1847 by the Bible Christians, an offshoot of the Methodist Church, and later in the century the Seventh-day Adventists and Quakers promoted vegetarianism. That’s where the Booths come in. ‘For the greater part of the last 40 years of his life [William Booth] did not eat butcher’s meat, nor did he care for poultry,’ wrote Bramwell Booth. Bramwell and his wife, Florence, were committed vegetarians and urged Salvationists to consider a meat-free diet. For many years, the Orders and Regulations for officers and soldiers recommended vegetarianism and Bramwell promoted it strongly in his writings. He also ensured that a vegetarian option was available for cadets at the Clapton training college. In her PhD thesis, Dr Samantha Calvert says: ‘Vegetarianism is likely to have been more widespread among the Salvationists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries than is generally claimed today.’ That emphasis faded as the 20th century wore on, but is it time for Salvationists to take another look at it? Bramwell highlighted human health and animal welfare as two significant reasons for a meat-free diet, and these are still valid issues. Numerous studies show that a balanced vegetarian diet can be healthier, reducing the risk of heart disease, obesity and type 2 diabetes, and there are constant concerns about factory farming and cruelty in slaughterhouses.
Today, caring for creation amid the environmental crisis is another reason – perhaps the primary reason – for considering a meat-free diet. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change says: ‘It is no surprise that meat and its consumption is bad for the environment. Not only does livestock generate a huge amount of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, huge amounts of forests are being chopped down to make way for grazing land each year. Forests soak up carbon from the air, so their destruction to make way for emission-intensive farming is doubly impactful… A diet rich in plant-based foods is therefore vital to ensure emissions from our food are reduced.’ People are encouraged to go meatfree for a day on World Vegetarian Day – find out more at worldvegetarianday. navs-online.org. And, as it marks the start of Vegetarian Awareness Month, people might even consider going meat-free for the whole of October! Corps that run a café or community centre could have a meat-free menu for one day this week – and, if the menu doesn’t already, it could offer vegetarian options every day. Dominic Sandbrook’s prediction may not come true any time soon, but World Vegetarian Day encourages us to think about moving in that direction.
LIEUT-COLONEL JONATHAN ROBERTS Territorial Ecumenical Officer THQ
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TESTIMONY
‘He walks with me’ seconds with... Major Stephanie Perry
Who are you and what do you do? I’m a retired Salvation Army officer and I was 100 in August. What’s your favourite Bible verse or passage? ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight’ (Proverbs 3:5 and 6). What was the last website you visited? YouTube to watch the Bromley Temple Sunday service. What do you do in your spare time? Read novels and biographies, and I like to watch programmes like MasterChef and Pointless. Which country would you like to visit and why? Switzerland – the mountains look so beautiful. What advice would you give to your younger self? Follow Jesus wholeheartedly all the time. What are you praying for at the moment? For my son and his wife to choose to follow Jesus while I’m alive. Give your testimony using one word. Trust. 4
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90-year-old Valerie Handford (Reading West) shares her faith journey
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HERE was never a time when I didn’t know about The Salvation Army. My first words probably included ‘Army’ and ‘band’! Family life revolved around the Army and there was little opportunity for activities that fell outside of it. At the tender age of seven or eight, we were encouraged to give our hearts to Jesus. Looking back now, I’m not sure how clearly I understood what it meant at the time. Music ministry was a big part of our family life. My grandfather and uncle had each been bandmaster. My father took over from my grandfather and my brother, Trevor, took over from him. Dad, a cornet player, taught me to play and I waited many years to take my place in the eventual ladies’ brass group alongside my daughter, Zoe. My mother sang in the songsters, later alongside my sister, Brenda, and me, and Trevor was the organist. In 1950, the Army held an International Youth Congress in London and delegates were dispatched to visit corps. Maidenhead hosted a weekend with them, which was a spiritually energising and stimulating experience. I realised something watching young adult Salvationists from other walks of life: they seemed to have a broader understanding of the Army’s work in the territory and the rest of the world. Missionary work and social outreach became a reality to me, and not just pictures I had seen in the War Cry. Years later, a visit by cadets to our corps challenged many of us – we were not used to hearing strong messages from adults our own age.
Around this time, I was asked to serve as the singing company leader. I could read music but managing 25 youngsters was something I hadn’t thought about. For uniforms to look smart, I had to wash and iron them myself! The corps was facing a move to new accommodation, which gave plenty of space for all the sections. It was a turning point with the chance to provide new impetus in our mission. A lovely memory from this time is of my wonderful friend and fellow songster, Joan, who contracted polio as a child. This might have dampened most people’s spirits, but not Joan. On Sundays she was fully kitted out in her uniform and was such an inspiration. A time came when the strict traditions we had been used to began to change. My own family were finding work and pastimes that fell outside the total immersion that we had all known. Our children were moving out, getting into jobs with different time constraints and, with the changing times, losing focus on Army activities. Eva, a corps stalwart, was a good listener and helped with careful advice. Eventually the time came when I could play in the corps band. We had moved and were worshipping at another corps and for several years enjoyed worsh hip pping through music. worshipping My fondest praye prayer er is in the words of the Garde en’ n’:: ‘And he walks with me, hymn ‘In The Garden’: m ,/ And he tells me I am and he talks with me me,/ his own,/ And the joy we share as we tarry there,/ None other, has ever, known!’ Val with members of the corps band
ARTISTS’ CORNER
BACK TO BETHEL
by Len Roberts (Hemel Hempstead)
In this occasional series, Salvationists share artwork inspired by their faith
What does Back to Bethel depict? Bethel Street Citadel. Though the corps has moved on to other premises, this building still stands on that street. What inspired it? In 1857, the Rev William Booth became the Methodist New Connexion Minister in Brighouse, West Yorkshire, where his second son, Ballington, was born. The church was on Bethel Street, where – 53 years later – the citadel was opened. During the 1940s the corps played a significant part in my spiritual journey. Having arrived as a refugee from Nazioccupied Guernsey, I later became a soldier, corps cadet, bandsman and cub leader, before entering the training college. As corps officer at Chester-leStreet, it was my privilege in 1967 to accompany the band to conduct the 80th corps anniversary at Brighouse. Genesis 35:15 – ‘Jacob called the place where God had talked with him
Bethel’ – was the inspiration for an appropriate message, themed Back to Bethel. Artistic ability I have always acknowledged as a gift from God, to be used to bring aesthetic and uplifting pleasure to others, as well as leaving a legacy of work created by hand and mind. I have had a relationship with art from my schoolboy days, with my first employment in the art department of a company in Brighouse. I often neglected it during my 20 years of officership, but it has become more prolific in recent years with exhibitions and commissions of watercolours and oils. My work has been used for national and European band contests, celebrity portraits, tours and concerts, sports champions, historical and tourist sites, but the greatest pleasure and privilege was being able to acknowledge the place that was to me a veritable Bethel.
How was it made? A fellow bandsman friend had a family business producing presentation items such as plaques for commercial companies and sponsorships. In contrast to my usual media, he commissioned me to produce a series of pen and ink drawings for a variety of purposes. This led to a friend at Brighouse requesting a drawing to required specification for use on items celebrating the corps centenary in 1987. It was to represent the corps being held in God’s hands, reflecting the chorus from song number 848 in the Army songbook: ‘I’m in his hands, I’m in his hands;/ Whate’er the future holds/ I’m in his hands.’
Do you have a piece of art to share inspired by your faith? Email it to salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk for consideration.
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BIBLE STUDY
A good shepherd Captain Chris Kelly reminds us of God’s faithfulness despite our sinfulness
ROMANS 3:1–20
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HENEVER I hear the word ‘faithfulness’, immediately, I am taken back to my grandma’s living room and remember her sitting in her chair singing ‘Great Is Thy Faithfulness’ (SASB 26). Without a single doubt in her mind of the faithfulness of her Saviour, she sang as she wrote her weekly letters. Every Sunday afternoon was a quiet time when she wrote to other people. On one occasion, I remember being really bored. I whinged: ‘But Grandma, what’s the point?’ Her silence was enough to silence me. PAUSE AND REFLECT Do you ever ask yourself ‘What is the point’? Perhaps that question reminds you of the beginning of our study passage: ‘What advantage, then, is there in being a Jew, or what value is there in circumcision?’ (v1). Paul ends the previous chapter of his letter to the Romans by outlining the difference between an outward sign and an inner experience: ‘A person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code’ (2:29). Looking at everything Paul says in chapter 2 and then this opening statement of chapter 3, he could be accused of disregarding a practice that God had established: circumcision. If that is the case, then what is the point in being a Jew? Paul reminds his readers that, as God’s 6
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chosen people, they were ‘entrusted with the very words of God’ (v2). They had knowledge that others did not. Yet, despite this advantage, they failed to make use of it, therefore it did them no good at all. They were no better off than if they had never known the Law because they did not put it to its intended use. During the time of Moses, God gave his Law to his chosen people, Israel. As the Israelites were about to cross the River Jordan and enter the Promised Land, Moses reminded them: ‘He declared to you his covenant, the Ten Commandments, which he commanded you to follow and then wrote them on two stone tablets’ (Deuteronomy 4:13). PAUSE AND REFLECT What parallels do you see with our society today? Are there times when we might be the ones who don’t put the word of God to good use? Very early in our study passage, Paul reminds us of God’s faithfulness. We see the contrast between that and the lack of faithfulness of God’s people. It could be said that the people Paul is writing to are more than happy to focus on the minutiae while missing the big picture. They readily focus on an outward sign rather than recognise how far they fall short in their obedience to God’s commandments. It recalls Jesus’ strong words for the ‘righteous’ who focused on the wrong things. He addressed the religious leaders of his day – the teachers of the Law and the Pharisees – and said: ‘You
blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel’ (Matthew 23:24). In verse 3 of his letter, Paul asks: ‘Will their unfaithfulness nullify God’s faithfulness?’ In verse 5, he continues: ‘If our unrighteousness brings out God’s righteousness more clearly, what shall we say? That God is unjust in bringing his wrath on us?’ (v5) Whether Jew or Gentile, before a holy God whose Law we fail to keep, Paul concludes that we are ‘all under the power of sin’ (v9). In verses 10 to 18, Paul quotes verses from Psalms and Ecclesiastes to demonstrate our sinfulness and justify his earlier comments. For example: ‘All have turned away, all have become corrupt; there is no one who does good, not even one’ (Psalm 14:3). Paul, however, uses the word ‘righteous’ (v10) rather than ‘good’. Perhaps this is to emphasise the fact that not one of us can stand before God, except by God’s faithfulness and grace. Paul’s references describe harmful speech and evil actions of people – their tongues practise deceit, with poison on their lips, mouths full of cursing and bitterness that are swift to shed blood, and ruin and misery mark their ways. Such people neither know the way of peace nor live their lives in fear of the Lord (see vv17 and 18). PAUSE AND REFLECT Are you ever worried that you’ve let God down so much that his faithfulness will be withdrawn? If this is the case, maybe we need to be reminded of God’s faithfulness. As
Prayer Matters contains daily devotions covering specific areas in the territory, current worldwide situations and personal reflection and relationship with God. A PDF of the unedited booklet is available to download from salvationist.org.uk/resources. In October, the focus of our prayers is on Jesus and his righteousness.
FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP FOCUS by Major Richard Waters (Territorial Financial Secretary, THQ) SATURDAY 30 SEPTEMBER – 2 CORINTHIANS 9:7 Pray that God will lead you towards cheerful giving that demonstrates your love and faith in him. Amen.
OLDER PEOPLE’S MINISTRIES FOCUS by Andrew Wileman (Older People’s Services) General John Gowans writes: ‘For his love remains the same,/ He knows you by your name,/ Don’t think because you failed him he despairs;/ For he gives to those who ask/ His grace for every task,/ God plans for you in love for he still cares’ (SASB 490). PAUSE AND REFLECT What personal message do you need to hear from God? In the face of our many failures, what difference does a clear understanding of God’s grace and faithfulness make to us? In the final verse of our study passage, Paul writes: ‘Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the Law; rather, through the Law we become conscious of our sin.’ In John 15 and 16, Jesus explained the role of the Holy Spirit to his disciples. He was sent to prompt us and point out the things in our lives that don’t sit well with God and are not beneficial for us. Jesus calls him the ‘Spirit of truth’ (15:26). From time to time, we need reminding that this correction by God is a loving gesture of his faithfulness. He seeks to direct us carefully back into the fold as any good shepherd does for his flock.
CAPTAIN CHRIS KELLY Corps Officer Middlesbrough Citadel
SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER – INTERNATIONAL DAY OF OLDER PERSONS Dear Father God, we pray for those who are older in our churches and communities. We ask that no one will be forgotten or overlooked. Just as you see each one of us as your children, we pray to see the wisdom and years of life that are to be celebrated in our older adults. Amen. MONDAY 2 OCTOBER Dear Father God, we pray for anyone who feels lonely today. We pray for those who are living alone and find it difficult to connect with others. From the youngest to the oldest of your children, we pray to see how we can connect with each other, showing and sharing your love. Amen. TUESDAY 3 OCTOBER Dear Father God, thank you for the joy of caring for those we love. We pray for those who are carers. We thank you for them, for their gifts, for their love and patience. We ask that you give strength and wisdom to those who may feel tired today. May your joy and peace be theirs. Amen. WEDNESDAY 4 OCTOBER Dear Father God, thank you for the joy found in later life. We give thanks for faithful volunteers who give their time willingly in retirement to support others in need. May each one find refreshment, enjoyment and fulfilment as they serve you, just where you have placed them. Amen. THURSDAY 5 OCTOBER Dear Father God, today we pray for those who are living with dementia and for their carers. Help us always to look into each other’s eyes and see the fullness of one another. Forgive us for the times when we have forgotten those who are no longer able to worship with us. Amen. FRIDAY 6 OCTOBER Dear Father God, bless all those who attend our older adults programme around the UKI Territory. May each one feel the warmth of your love, the sense of belonging and the joy of joining with others in each of our corps and centres. May friendships grow and strengthen, we pray. Amen. PRAYER REQUESTS Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for? Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line and the Territorial Prayer Network will uphold them in prayer.
REFLECTION
God’s not finished with you yet Andrew Wileman reflects on how getting older changes our purposes and priorities
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HAT do you most look forward to as you grow older? What do you least look forward to as you grow older? Often in our work in the Older People’s Services team we talk about the various stages within ageing. We sometimes talk about the ‘third age’ of adulthood. It is generally defined as the span of time between retirement and the beginning of age-imposed physical, emotional and cognitive limitations, and today would roughly fall between the ages of 65 and 80. We also recognise – increasingly, with the rapid extension of life in the Western world over the past several decades – the ‘fourth age’, which has emerged as a relatively normal ageing reality. Starting at about 80 or 85, it includes the last years of adulthood and a focus on end of life. There are many ways to talk about getting older. One common way is the football analogy of a game of two halves, with the second half beginning when your priorities and questions about where our lives are heading take on new answers. This second half can be a time of real enrichment, yet it can also have its sorrows and anxieties if our 8
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expectations and dreams have not been fulfilled. When our ageing circumstances look more woeful than wonderful, might God still be at work? What might be your priorities in 10 years’ time? Our youthobsessed society and focus on delaying ageing presents a distorted view of the fastest growing age group in our society. The reservoir of gifts and wisdom from people living longer has not always been fully valued and shared between generations. Philippians 1:6 says: ‘Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.’ As I get older, and perhaps this is true for you, I am still far from being who I believe God wants me to be. Too often I make choices based on what I want; I value things that have no eternal significance; my attitudes reveal ugly truths about me. There are times when we perhaps don’t think much about our shortcomings, especially when we can focus on the shortcomings of others. The Bible declares God makes all things beautiful in their time (see Ecclesiastes 3:11) and that he is working
all things for the good for those who love him (see Romans 8:28). But when our older lives get messy and hard, it’s easy to doubt these promises for ourselves. The Catholic theologian and philosopher St Augustine said: ‘God has work to do with us that will not be done without us.’ God’s not finished with us yet – hallelujah! We are still being moulded and shaped and conformed to Jesus’ likeness (see Romans 8:29). This means that God has a plan for every single child of faith, and his plans don’t change because of our age or circumstances. Our glorious God will not stop middesign or call it quits just because we are advancing in years. He will finish the good work he’s started. Whether you are in the third or fourth age of life, you still have much to look forward to.
ANDREW WILEMAN Assistant Director of Older Ass People’s Services THQ
INTERVIEW
Silver streamers Outreach Mission Partner Ali Thornton-Dean (Older People’s Services) talks to Salvationist about the new Salvationist Radio show No Age Limit What guests have you got lined up? We have a guest segment called ‘This Is My Story, This Is My Song’. Our first broadcast featured Commissioner Freda Larsson. Our next is International Staff Bandmaster Steve Cobb. We hope that listeners, whether inside or outside the Army, will hear someone’s story and be blessed by it. People listening who may not even know Christ might come to know him – God can do amazing things.
What’s it like hearing yourself on the radio?
What is Older People’s Ministries? We’re part of Older People’s Services and provide resources that support older people and help equip corps and communities in understanding and meeting older people’s needs. Our resources have been translated into other languages for use around the world, including French, German and Chinese.
Ageing is a topic that people can be wary of, isn’t it? Some people don’t want to talk about it. We acknowledge that growing older has got its challenges, but we want to make the most of it: there’s no age limit to what we can do for God or what he can do for us.
No Age Limit is the name of your Salvationist Radio show – what inspired it? There really is no age limit in God’s Kingdom! When we heard about the radio station, it was a natural fit.
What’s the format of the show? It’s an hour of music, chat, testimony and devotions with me and Andy Wileman, the assistant director of Older People’s Services, and guests.
It’s embarrassing! But what we’re trying to do, me and Andy as two Yorkshire people together, is to be natural, so people feel like they’re sat around the kitchen table with us having a cup of tea. We finish each episode with the Lord’s Prayer and we picture people listening and praying with us.
You recently launched A Closer Look at Ageing. How did that resource come about? We had officers and local leaders ask, ‘What does Scripture say about this?’ And so we created something that could look at different aspects of ageing and what the Bible has to say. And Scripture has something to say about everything, doesn’t it? We’re not the font of all knowledge, but we can help people and signpost them to some other amazing organisations, such as Alzheimer’s Society and Age UK.
What topics does it cover? Death and dying, dementia, retirement, social care, and befriending – with more topics coming later this year. Take retirement, for example. There’s no real mention of it in Scripture. There was a change of duty for older priests in the Temple, but they were still needed – you don’t get to a certain age and then God’s done with you. Anna and Simeon at the Temple waited and waited, and they were the first ones to recognise the Messiah.
You include practical responses as well. Why? It’s like it says in Micah 6:8. ‘What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.’ I love Scripture because it’s not enough to read it; you have to respond to what you’ve read.
What else is Older People’s Ministries up to? We run a course, Changing Seasons, which equips people for ministry with older people. It’s currently running until February. We look at the theology of ageing, at the beautiful story of Naomi and Ruth, at listening to community needs and at change and how difficult it can be. Some modules are face to face and some online. You can find out more about that and A Closer Look at Ageing at salvationist.org.uk/opm.
Who is the course for? We get a good mix of corps officers, divisional officers and local leaders, as well as volunteers – without older people in those roles up and down the territory, we couldn’t run a lot of our programme. There’s no age limit to volunteering!
What’s the response like? We’ve had lovely feedback from people saying it’s helped them rethink their ministry with, and view of, older people. After all, an older person is just somebody who’s lived on the Earth longer with a lot more wisdom, aren’t they?
No Age Limit Listen live on Salvationist Radio on the fourth Sunday of each month at 5pm. Episodes are repeated on the Friday following each broadcast at 11am. Andy and Ali’s devotions are also available in Salvationist Radio’s new Silver Linings podcast. Find out more at salvationist.org.uk/no-agelimit.
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Retired? There’s no such thing! Lyn Woods explores the opportunities for ministry that some officers find as they continue to serve in retirement
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ANY Salvation Army officers find enjoyment in retirement through further education, travel and time with family. Some find themselves very much in need of rest and recuperation. Others continue to work, whether it be serving within their corps, a ministry role elsewhere or other avenues of mission in their community. Four of them share their experiences:
MAJOR IAN FIELD
MAJOR SUE CAMP-RICHARDS
How did serving in retirement come about? One week into retirement I received a request from Manchester airport, asking whether I would lead the chaplaincy team. I undertook this for 10 months having previously been a full-time chaplain for 5 years. I have worked a day a week within the team for the past 11 years.
How does God use you in retirement? How did serving in retirement come about? I was asked by my corps officer at Exeter Temple to be the recruiting sergeant and part of a team responsible for our weekly Connect Club, as well as weekend community outreach with meals for people who are vulnerable or experiencing homelessness.
I am also involved in the finance team at Sale. On occasion I support the coffee morning and weekly drop-in and assist with a monthly online study group. My wife, Yvonne, and I regularly have a coffee at Ikea and listen to and support some staff members. This led to a continuing relationship with an amazing Filipino community, where we have shared in family celebrations and attended their church – quite an experience.
How does God use you in retirement? Apart from my home corps activities, I am an Exeter city centre chaplain and cover meetings at nearby corps.
What has been the greatest challenge, joy or experience in your current service?
What has been the greatest challenge, joy or experience in your current service?
Helping to receive guests from Ukraine, Afghanistan and other countries. To hear of their resilience and strength is inspiring and often a challenge to my thinking and stereotypes.
My calling – some 51 years ago! It did not cease when I retired: I was called to serve people in God’s name and to the best of my ability and with his help I shall continue to do so.
What sustains and motivates you? My calling! As Scripture says in John 21:15: ‘Feed my lambs’ (New Living Translation).
What sustains and motivates you? Time for myself is crucial and often involves walking. I regularly pop into the Anglican parish church in Liverpool to be still and aware of the Lord’s presence. Joshua 1:9 gives me confidence, reassurance and the will to keep going!
What are you praying for most in your service? What are you praying for most in your service? To see God’s Kingdom grow in Exeter and beyond.
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The ability to keep going! And to remain relevant in society today.
MAJOR RIK PEARS
MAJOR YVONNE DARE
How did serving in retirement come about? Five months after I retired, I was asked to help with corps leadership and stayed in that appointment for two years. I was then asked to assume leadership of another corps for three months, which resulted in a stay of three years.
How did serving in retirement come about?
How does God use you in retirement?
Every role I have undertaken in retirement came about simply because I was asked and I responded in faith. My first role in the training principal’s office at William Booth College was to help for a couple of months – I stayed two years. Then I was invited to help International Emergency Services with an administrative backlog for a few months – I was privileged to serve for six years, which took me to disaster zones all over the world.
I have been the retired officers’ visitor for part of the North East Division for about 10 years. It’s always good to speak to retired officers and learn from their experiences, as well as pray with and support them through times of anxiety, loneliness, illness and bereavement. I have also been a critical incident support practitioner with the Well Being Department for more than 20 years, which is a privilege. In addition, I lead meetings in the division on an occasional basis.
How does God use you in retirement? I serve as the territory’s prison ministries officer with the privileged responsibility of managing and caring for 22 chaplains in as many prisons. It’s a daily humbling experience for me.
What has been your greatest challenge and greatest joy in your current service? Every retirement role has required that I quickly assimilate new information, skills and relationships – always challenging and harder as I get older. Every role has brought considerable joy and rich memories that far outweigh any challenge or hardship.
What sustains and keeps you motivated? I simply continue to respond to what I believe was God’s call to officer-ministry in the first place, as an almost-40year-old new Christian. Nothing clever, complicated or sacrificial, just saying ‘yes’ when asked and walking through the door in the confidence that God goes before me – always.
What are you praying for most in your service? Energy and good health in body, mind and spirit to fulfil what I have been asked to do.
What has been the greatest challenge, joy or experience in your current service? The greatest challenge has been balancing home life and various roles. My husband and I hope to celebrate our diamond wedding anniversary next year, so hopefully the balance hasn’t been too skewed! The greatest joy has been the privilege of coming alongside people in personal and profound situations.
What sustains and motivates you? The covenant I made with God doesn’t have an end date – I promised to love and serve him ‘all my days’. It’s not something I can achieve in my own strength. I prove daily that his ‘grace is sufficient’ (2 Corinthians 12:9).
What are you praying for most in your service? The sensitivity to perceive God’s leading and the health and strength to respond to it, reflecting the nature of Jesus.
LYN WOODS Editorial Assistant Salvationist
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A lasting influence Major Howard Webber celebrates the impact of an inspiring older couple
I
MUST have been in my early teens when, having avidly read the little Victory Books the Army produced back then, I mentioned to my YP band leader that I would love to meet a missionary. Some time later, they took me aside and introduced me to Brigadiers Annie and Ralph Ponting, who were on homeland furlough from India. The encounter didn’t last long. In those days I was too self-conscious and shy to say anything, but something about them touched me. Some time later, I received a parcel in the post from India. It was a book, The Harvest of the Years, and a handwritten letter. Despite his busy life as the Training Principal of the India South Territory, Lieut-Colonel Ralph had not forgotten this young boy. It was the beginning of a lifelong friendship. I became an enthusiastic junior candidate for officership when I was 13, but in the years that followed I took my eyes off Jesus and withdrew my candidateship. I left the Army, but Annie and Ralph – now retired – continued to write to me once or twice a year. Although I was far from God, they never commented on that fact, but always finished their letters by telling me how they prayed regularly for me, my wife, Judy, and my family. God never gives up on any of us, and eventually both Judy and I surrendered ourselves to the Lord and felt led to join a corps. This was followed by us entering the training college two years later. Annie and Ralph were thrilled and we started to visit them whenever we visited our parents in Kent. These were precious times and we learnt so much as we listened to them. Annie and Ralph were married in 1929 and stationed in Scotland when they offered themselves for missionary service in China. Eventually they were invited for an interview with General Evangeline Booth. Months later, after cycling to the railway station to collect 12
Salvationist 30 September 2023
the Army papers, Ralph cut the string and took a War Cry from the bundle and opened it. ‘Annie,’ he called, ‘we’re going to China.’ So it was that in August 1935 Adjutant and Mrs Ponting, as part of a small pioneer party, set sail for southern China. It was almost 20 years since the Army began work in that country. Years later, during a corps appointment in Hong Kong, the governor of Hong Kong surrendered the British Crown colony to the Imperial Japanese Army. Major and Mrs Ponting were placed in Stanley Internment Camp for the duration of the Japanese occupation: three years and eight months. Annie had an unusual wedding ring that intrigued me. She explained that food was often scarce in the camp, and they shared what little they had with the children there. But malnourishment resulted in Ralph becoming seriously ill. The only thing of value they possessed was Annie’s wedding ring. She sold it to a guard in exchange for food and medicine. ‘She saved my life,’ Ralph exclaimed. Annie got someone to file a hole in a 10-cent piece for her to wear as a replacement. Ralph promised Annie that he would get her a proper ring. Her response? ‘I do not want another ring, Ralph. This represents all we’ve shared together. It’s irreplaceable.’ It’s more than two decades since they both went to be with their Saviour, but I thank God for bringing such a godly and Christlike influence into my life.
MAJOR HOWARD WEBBER Retired Officer Bournemouth
TERRITORIAL STRUCTURE UPDATE
Playing a key role In September’s update from the Structure Co-ordination and Design Group, Colonel Jenine Main provides a whistlestop tour of some new job titles
D
O you know your DPO (divisional personnel officer) from your LDO (learning development officer)? The Salvation Army, like many large organisations, uses acronyms for speedy communication. Those who have been in the Army for years know a CSM (corps sergeant-major) from a BM (bandmaster) and would not confuse a YPSM (young people’s sergeant-major) with a DC (divisional commander). However, there are now some new roles and titles, and adding any more abbreviations to the mix is likely to get confusing! In July, the UKI Territory concluded its major structural and process changes. As a result, a number of new terms have been introduced to explain roles people are taking to enable local mission flourishing. The territory now has 14 divisions – down from 22 – and the divisional headquarters teams aren’t all staffed or structured the same. Therefore, your divisional headquarters might have a divisional area officer while the next has a divisional mission officer. Hopefully, the following explanations will help!
which will result in flourishing people and communities experiencing fullness of life with Jesus. They will prioritise relationship-building and strategically lead on shared and integrated mission opportunities too, among other key tasks.
Divisional Area Officer An officer who provides missional leadership and spiritual/pastoral support/ leader development to all mission expressions within a given area. They will deliver supervision to designated spiritual leaders, modelling mutual accountability, reflective practice and servant leadership, taking responsibility for developing and maintaining an enabling culture where feedback and learning contribute to the development of relationships and mission.
Divisional Mission Officer An officer who facilitates, enables, encourages and resources frontline mission within a division, which includes care homes, corps and Lifehouses.
Divisional Personnel Officer Territorial Intercultural Mission Officer As so many towns, cities and suburban areas become culturally richer, we need to learn how we can live and journey together in a way that celebrates diversity and unity. An intercultural mission officer, as part of a team, will play a part in positively impacting the territory’s intercultural journey. Individuals will use their passion and skills in corps and divisions and in wider intercultural challenges and opportunities. Based around the territory, they are available to resource and equip the UKI.
An officer who supports the mission of the Army by ensuring and co-ordinating the support and oversight of all officers and paid spiritual leaders within the division.
Divisional Operations Manager An employee who ensures the effective functioning of divisional headquarters and effective partnership working between headquarters, corps and territorial services such as HR, Property, Finance and IT. This is a key role that actively supports corps with a wide range of operational matters by ensuring corps and other local mission units’ needs are met by divisional and territorial services.
Assistant Divisional Commander An assistant divisional commander isn’t only in place to deputise for a divisional commander in their absence – they share the leadership of the division with them too. An assistant divisional commander has a key role in ensuring the five mission priorities are delivered across the division,
Divisional Youth Worker An employee who provides knowledge and expertise to support the development and delivery of the divisional youth work strategy and enables local corps and centres to raise leaders and young people who are
disciples of Jesus in the Army’s tradition of social change and justice.
Divisional Children’s Officer/ Worker An officer or employee who provides practical knowledge and expertise in the development and delivery of the children’s work strategy and enables corps and centres to raise leaders and children who are disciples of Jesus in the Army’s tradition of social change and justice.
Divisional Intergenerational Officer/ Worker An employee or officer who provides practical knowledge and expertise in the development and delivery of intergenerational mission and ministry with a focus on children and families – including specific responsibility to equip, enable and empower local corps and centres around their education and practice.
Divisional Ecumenical Officer An officer, soldier or adherent whose oversight is expressed in an enabling, supporting and creative ecumenical role and serves divisional headquarters, corps and centres. They encourage and enable work with other churches and fellow Christians in witness to our common faith in Jesus Christ in the relevant county or local authority area and represent The Salvation Army in ecumenical bodies, where appropriate. O If you have any feedback or questions for the Structure Co-ordination and Design Group, please email transformation@salvationarmy.org.uk. Please continue to pray for your colleagues at divisional headquarters who are working through many changes, challenges and opportunities.
COLONEL JENINE MAIN Territorial Secretary for Leader Development THQ
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ARMY UPDATES
ARMY NEWS
ARMY NEWS
Colonels Paul and Jenine Main appointed UKI territorial leaders IHQ CHIEF of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill has announced that the General has appointed Colonels Paul and Jenine Main as territorial leaders for United Kingdom and Ireland Territory. Colonel Paul has been appointed as territorial commander and Colonel Jenine as territorial leader for leader development. Colonels Paul and Jenine are officers of the UKI Territory currently serving respectively as chief secretary and territorial secretary for leader development in the territory. They will take up their new appointment responsibilities with the rank of commissioner, Colonel Jenine on 3 January 2024 and Colonel Paul on 4 January 2024. They will succeed territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gillian Cotterill, who will be retiring from active service. Commissioner Edward Hill said: ‘I know you will join me in praying God’s richest blessing upon our comrades as they prepare to assume their new appointment responsibilities.’ – AR
CHILDREN AND YOUTH
Summer school celebrates One God WEST MIDLANDS YOUNG people from the division gathered at Malvern College to explore the theme of One God – The Father Who Loves Us, the Son Who Saves Us and the Holy Spirit 14
Salvationist 30 September 2023
Colonels Peter and Julie Forrest appointed Chief Secretary and TSLD IHQ CHIEF of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill has announced that the General has appointed Colonel Peter Forrest as chief secretary and Colonel Julie Forrest as territorial secretary for leader development, United Kingdom and Ireland Territory. Colonels Peter and Julie are officers of the UKI Territory currently serving respectively as chief secretary, IHQ, and international liaison officer for dialogue on human sexuality, IHQ. Colonel Julie will continue to serve as the international liaison officer for dialogue on human sexuality, IHQ. They will take up their appointment responsibilities on 1 January 2024. – AR
Who Transforms Us. The week included a variety of evening activities such as team games and ‘hunt the staff member’, silent disco, a waterthemed night, Sam & Charlie’s Wednesday Night Take Away and our own Glasto-style festival night. Each day started with God Morning Summer School and then everyone met in Bible Study groups. Main studies followed – including drama, art, dance, singing, brass, media – and then options, including timbrels, crafts, big questions, worship band and sport. Everyone met together for a time of gathered worship each day. Guests during the week included Divisional Mission Officers Captains Lorna and Richard Weston, Lieutenant Rebekah Frost (Cannock and Hednesford), territorial leaders Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill, Sports Mission Specialist Rob Moye and divisional leaders Lieut-Colonels JP and Karin Ramos. The week concluded with a final celebration where friends and family joined everyone to thank God for an amazing week together. The different studies allowed everyone to express their testimony and worship the One God! – CS
CHILDREN AND YOUTH
PRESTONPANS After an absence of three years, the Honey Tots parent-and-toddler group recommenced. On the opening day, corps folk were delighted to welcome 26 toddlers with 16 mums, grans and carers, providing a great opportunity to serve in the community. – AB
EVENT
CHILDREN AND YOUTH CIRENCESTER A family service with crafts and cakes included the Gap Sunday club prizegiving. The young people were thanked for their enthusiasm and the adults for their support. There were special words for those about to start a new school and a presentation of useful items – including a Bible – to a longtime member of the YP work who is about to start a university course. – MG
OUTREACH
BECCLES Town mayor Councillor Christine Wheeler opened a well-attended summer garden party – the first held at the corps in 50 years. A ‘brass on the grass’ trio and their drummer, as well as corps ukulele duo the Two Rs, delighted visitors with a selection of hymns and popular songs. Stalls sold crafts, bric-a-brac and children’s books, while the outdoor barbecue, indoor café and local artisan bakery stall proved popular. Children enjoyed games, including Splat the Rat, and the weather held out beautifully. The day raised £400 towards community work and the Big Collection. – LW
GUISBOROUGH The corps took its meeting outside and asked other evangelical fellowships to join in declaring the wonders of God in the town. Numerous songs, interspersed with Bible verses, comments and prayers, were played by the band and a music group from two other Christian fellowships, which drew a crowd of 120 people. – SS
EVENT
OUTREACH
CATERHAM The community gave a fabulous £476 at a brica-brac and toy stall at Godstone village fete. Lots of good conversations raised awareness of the corps presence in the area. – JB
FALMOUTH TEMPLE An art exhibition brought together individuals from all backgrounds who visit the corps. Many of the artists have faced challenges in their lives, such as homelessness or physical or learning difficulties. Their art ranged from landscapes to portraits and pottery, encompassing a wide variety of mediums, including photography, pen and ink, pottery, acrylics, water colours and crystal art. The exhibition offered an important change of perspective; contributors were not defined by their life challenges but by their work. – KT Salvationist 30 September 2023
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ARMY UPDATES
OUTREACH
BIRTHDAY
Opens doors for Fringe Festival EDINBURGH CITY THE corps hall was an official venue at the Edinburgh Fringe again this year, hosting a varied programme of events and with open doors for hospitality. Dan Elson (Music and Creative Arts), Major Alison Raybould (pictured) from the Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery Department, and Jo Taylor (Children and Youth), each assisted in providing and hosting opportunities for Fringe-goers to engage with the Army. Visitors enjoyed an exhibition of creative arts produced by Salvationists around the territory, four live recordings of The All Terrain Podcast and informative walks around the old town sharing the history of slavery in Edinburgh and examples of modern slavery prevalent today. Musical concerts were given by the NHS Fife staff choir, Edinburgh Telephone Choir and Bellshill Band. The corps also provided a quiet space for Fringe performers and staff, and offered afternoon teas to festival-goers. Corps officers Captains David and Jennifer Gosling, along with the corps fellowship, are thankful to God for the many conversations had and connections made. – JG
BALLYMONEY Corps member Maisie recently celebrated her 105th birthday. Maisie was born in 1918 and served in the British Army during the Second World War. She lives in sheltered housing near the hall and comes to the midweek drop-in and Sunday worship. She is pictured with the youngest member of the congregation, seven-year-old Micah. They love playing dominoes together at the drop-in, teaming up against everyone else and always winning! Maisie has seen many changes in her life, but always testifies that her Saviour is constant and unchanging. – J-MC
EVENT
EVENT
CHILDREN AND YOUTH LIMAVADY The charity shop manager and volunteers worked hard to make a success of their summer afternoon tea. They raised more than £500 for the corps community relief fund, which supports people in the area who are struggling with the cost of living. – SW 16
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SLEAFORD The final in a series of family activity sessions, organised by corps officer Major Dawn McGarvey, was themed On Safari. A group of 20 children with their parents and the volunteer helpers, together with a crocodile, tested the capacity of the small hall to extremes! – NM
CARNFORTH Major Dorothy Holloway returned to her roots, from where she left for the training college in 1951. She enjoyed a reunion with her fellow Salvationists, who are all nonagenarians. – MW
FUNDRAISING WELLING The corps has begun fundraising for a new kitchen. Two of the youngest members, aged three and five, remembered a meeting where they learnt that giving isn’t always about giving the largest amount of money and donated the contents of their piggy banks to the fund. – KS
NEW COMMITMENTS
WALLSEND
SHIREBROOK
MARION McDine was welcomed as an adherent by the then corps officer Lieutenant Luke Cozens. Marion was connected with the Army in Whitley Bay several years ago and began attending online meetings in 2020. The corps has welcomed Marion over the past few years and is happy to make her an official part of the corps family. Also pictured are Acting Home League Secretary Major Sheila Biddle, Sandra Clark and Colour Sergeant Jean Garr. – LC
EIGHT-year-old Ollie was welcomed as a junior soldier by corps officers Captains David and Lorna White. Ollie wrote and read out his heartfelt testimony saying: ‘We joined as a family, through the loss of our unborn baby. David and Lorna took us all under their wing at such a difficult time. From there our family began to grow within the church, from the love and support from everyone. I found it comforting at church. I felt my own confidence building and I wanted to be a junior soldier, along with my sister, Ruby, who has already become one. My church has shown me a better way to live and I love them. Before I became a Christian, I didn’t realise I already had Jesus in my life.’ Ollie is pictured with Captains David and Lorna and Corps Sergeant-Major Stephen Hicks holding the flag. – LW
READING CENTRAL
WREXHAM
LINDA Asamoah was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Major Beth Maddern, supported by Corps SergeantMajor Carol Clarke. Linda is a committed Christian and started attending the corps to support her children, Mispah and David, who came to the Army when they were invited by their school friend. – BM
DAWN, Favour and Bill were enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Captain Claire Durrant. Dawn and Favour made the commitment as they continue to grow deeper in their faith and spiritual journeys. Bill has been overwhelmed by the love and support of the fellowship and the forgiveness and grace of the Lord. – CD
SLOUGH HELLEN Doust (pictured left) was enrolled as a soldier and Bedgod Kapai, Verundurura Kavita and Ismaerelda Ngavetene (pictured right) were welcomed as adherents by the then corps officers Captains Roelof and Tanyia Vermeulen. Hellen has been an adherent for a number of years and gave her testimony through an interview with Recruiting Sergeant Meryl Lillis. Band Sergeant Shepherd Azhuda is holding the flag in both photos. – AB
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
ARMY PEOPLE
ENGAGEMENTS
Appointed
Dedicated to God
Effective 7 September
BEAU PAUL HAMILTON KIRBY, son of Andrew and Sarah Kirby, at Glenrothes by Major Ria Campbell
MAJOR IAN LOXLEY, officer in retirement, Territorial Headquarters Chaplain (2 days a week) MAJOR JULIE JOHNSON, additional appointment, Territorial Headquarters Chaplain (2 days a week) MAJOR PAUL WESTLAKE, Divisional Administrative Support (21 hours a week pro-tem), Central, Southern and Channel Islands Effective 21 September CAPTAIN CALLUM NEWTON, additional appointment, Divisional Ecumenical Officer, North East MAJOR SUSAN WOODGATE, Vocational Development and Spiritual Life Formation Support Officer, William Booth College Effective 28 September MAJORS BRAMWELL AND RHONDA HAYES, Burgess Hill
Marriages BANDSWOMAN/SONGSTER LYNNE BAKER to SL PAUL NEWMAN at Sittingbourne by Major Simon Perkin
Wedding anniversaries Diamond (60 years) CHRISTINE AND RAY HEDLEY, Chester-le-Street, on 5 October EDNA AND MAURICE CORNWELL, Bristol Easton, on 5 October ANNE AND BANDMASTER RICHARD CARROLL, Hythe, on 5 October ANNE AND DENNIS LANE, Staple Hill, on 12 October Emerald (55 years) MAJORS BARRY AND CINDY WILLSON on 12 October Golden (50 years) ACSM GRAHAM AND SUE HAYLER, Hythe, on 1 September 18
Salvationist 30 September 2023
EDWARD ADAM FRICKER, son of Adam and Rebecca Fricker, at Stotfold by Commissioner Robert Street ELODIE MAI LEWIS, daughter of Charlotte and Bandmaster Martin Lewis, at Rugby by Major Catherine Rand MOLLY, daughter of Lindsay O’Callaghan, at Shiremoor by Lieutenant Faith Scales
Retired officers’ birthdays LIEUT-COLONEL EVA READ 85 on 11 October
General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham Sat 30 Sep – Tue 3 Oct Kenya (International Conference of Training Principals)
Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Shelley Hill Thu 12 Oct Sunbury Court (ICO Welcome Meeting)
Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill and Territorial Leader for Leader Development Commissioner Gill Cotterill Sat 30 Sep – Sun 1 Oct Gateshead (10th anniversary) Fri 6 Oct William Booth College (Territorial Advisory Council) Sat 7 Oct – Sun 8 Oct Maldon (140th anniversary) Wed 11 Oct William Booth College (Spiritual Day) Thu 12 Oct Sunbury Court (ICO Welcome Meeting)
Chief Secretary Colonel Paul Main and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Jenine Main Sat 7 Oct – Sun 8 Oct Leigh-on-Sea (121st anniversary) Sat 14 Oct Gillingham (opening of preschool)
NOTICES Prayer Matters
Promoted to Glory RTD CS IRENE HOUSE, Lowestoft South JOYCE WHITE, Darlington ROBIN ELLIOTT, Lincoln, on 5 September BRIGADIER DOREEN YORK from Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham, on 13 September MAJOR BETTY BENNETT from Southend University Hospital on 13 September CAPTAIN BARBARA TRUFFET from The Beeches nursing home, Worthing, on 14 September
Bereaved S/RESERVIST CATHERINE READ, Staple Hill, Eva Clark, Chippenham, and Leslie Read of their brother David Read MAJOR DAVID HOUSE and Major Graham House of their mother Rtd CS Irene House HARRY WHITE, Darlington, of his wife Joyce White BM MARION STILL, Hadleigh Temple, and SL Martin Bennett, Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls, of their mother Major Betty Bennett
The October to December prayer resource, which covers Advent, is now available on salvationist.org.uk as a PDF or text-only Word version. Each prayer ties into a weekly theme that covers specific subjects in the territory, current worldwide situations and injustices, as well as personal reflection and relationship with God. The devotions will continue to be published weekly in Salvationist.
Anti-Slavery Day Ahead of Anti-Slavery Day (18 October), stand in solidarity with survivors by buying and wearing a temporary tattoo, available from the SP&S website. All money raised goes to the Survivor Support Fund – tag The Salvation Army in your photos on social media and use the hashtag #WeAreNotForSale.
SOUNDS Sunday Worship On International Day of Older Persons (1 October), Sunday Worship features a Bible message from guest Outreach Mission Partner Ali Thornton-Dean (Older People’s Services). Can’t join us at 11am on Sunday? Catch up with the weekly podcast of Sunday Worship highlights, including music, prayer and a Bible message. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am. O Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio, on the app or via your Alexa device.
No Age Limit Join Andy and Ali from Older People’s Ministries for an hour of music, chat and testimony, including guests. Listen live on the fourth Sunday of each month at 5pm. Episodes are repeated on the Friday following each broadcast at 11am. Can’t tune in then? The devotion is available by subscribing to the Silver Linings podcast. For more information, visit salvationist.org.uk/no-age-limit. O Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio, on the app or via your Alexa device.
ADVERTS
OAKENGATES, LION STREET, TELFORD TF2 6AQ Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 October
SONGSTER WEEKEND WITH MAJOR JOHN MARTIN Saturday 7 October, 7pm Concert featuring singers and musicians from Oakengates, Kidderminster, Oldbury, Willenhall and Hednesford – free entry Sunday 8 October, 10am Morning meeting led by Major John Martin All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and carried at the editor’s discretion. For more details email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk. BATH CITADEL Harvest Praise, Saturday 7 October, 7pm Staple Hill Band and Songsters with Majors Alan and Carol Young. Tickets £5. Contact CO on 07518 111092. KIDDERMINSTER, JERUSALEM WALK DY10 2NP Saturday 7 October, 4pm
VALEDICTORY MEETING For further information, or to send greetings, please email wmd-dhq@salvationarmy.org.uk
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HEMEL HEMPSTEAD CORPS, WATERHOUSE STREET HP1 1ES Sunday 29 October, 10.30am
WOODBRIDGE CORPS presents
140TH ANNIVERSARY AND REUNION
EAST OF ENGLAND YOUTH CHORUS AND BAND
Worship meeting led by Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill Followed by a fellowship lunch and reunion All former members of the corps welcome For more information and to register interest, please email margaret.hills@salvationarmy.org.uk
at St John’s Church, St John’s Hill, Woodbridge Saturday 28 October, 7pm Tickets: Adults £5 Children £2 From The Salvation Army, Woodbridge. Tel: 07562 007125
Dates worth remembering. Salvationist.org.uk’s events hub is the go-to place for upcoming events and gatherings. • Online discussions • Music and creative arts • Inspiring conferences Salary Part-time: £22,131.02 per
annum Relief role: £15.20 • Territorial networks per hour Working hours Part-time – 28 hours per week Relief – as and when
salvationist.org.uk/events
‘THOSE WHO ARE OLDER SHOULD SPEAK, FOR WISDOM COMES WITH AGE.’ JOB 32:7
New Living Translation
SALVATIONIST