Salvationist 31 aug 2013 by The Salvation Army UK and Ireland

SALVATIONIST

Essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army // www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 31 August 2013 // No. 1413 // Price 60p // Also available digitally

Page 15

CONTENTS 3.

FROM THE EDITOR

15.

4. PAPERS This week’s quotes from the papers and From the archives 5. – 9. & 21. NEWS Scotland // Tavistock // Cirencester // Bristol Easton // Wellingborough // Cardiff Canton // THQ // Stockton // Morley // Portadown // Bargoed // Norwich Citadel // Kirkcaldy // Lavenham // Oldham Roundthorn // Tunbridge Wells // Maesteg // Burton-on-Trent // Trowbridge // Prescot // Darlington // Clay Cross // William Booth College // Leicester South // Castleford // Stockton // South Shield // Eastbourne Citadel // Carnforth // Harlow // Launceston // 8.

NEW TESTAMENT BIBLE READING CHALLENGE

10.

LETTERS

11. Countdown to congress

FEATURE

12. – 14. TRANSFORMATION Territorial Congress booking form 15. The Big Collection

FEATURE

16. FEATURE Walking with the God who talks 17. Unity in diversity

BIBLE STUDY

18. & 19. NEW COMMITMENTS 20. & 21.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

22. & 23.

ADVERTS

24.

21.

THROUGH THE WEEK WITH SALVATIONIST

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

Salvationist 31 August 2013

FROM THE EDITOR

ENJOYABLE COLLECTING IS this really possible? That was the question I asked myself as I looked at the material produced for The Big Collection and caught sight of the leaflet Your Step-By-Step Guide To Enjoyable Collecting. As I thought about trudging around streets, avoiding barking dogs and waiting on doorsteps, I wondered, can this really be enjoyable, or is someone trying to persuade me to give it another go? I should say that the leaflet points out that there are more ways to collect than just door-to-door and, increasingly, people are supporting The Big Collection through fundraising and personal giving. But back to enjoyable collecting; I have encountered people – not too many – who appeared to enjoy collecting and if I happened to be in a team with them that was a bonus for me. They arrived on time with a gentle air of enthusiasm and weren’t constantly checking their watches or complaining about no answers at the doors – or anything else for that matter. Their positive attitude helped me to get on with the job and it never occurred to me to ask them if they really enjoyed collecting. Some years ago, the collection moved from freezing February to sunny September – it was all supposed to make life much easier and in some ways it has. But why do we do it? The Big Collection provides essential funding for Salvation Army social services ministry, whether in residential settings or in the community. It’s no surprise to hear that the need for such services is greater than ever. Why is it, then, that sometimes we are more willing to fundraise for other charities than for our own?

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

Only recently I was driving through a rather run-down residential area and caught sight of two youngsters struggling to help an older person back onto his feet. It seemed that he had lost his balance when trying to post a letter and had fallen to the ground along with his stick. I asked if I could help and one of the youngsters replied: ‘We don’t know who he is, we just saw him fall.’ At that point a man appeared from out of a corner shop and, recognising the elderly man, offered to take him home in his car. The thing that struck me about this incident was that even though the youngsters didn’t know the man, they saw that he was in trouble and felt they should help. Although we may not know the many people who benefit from The Big Collection, this need not prevent us from doing our bit to help them – however we decide to do so – practically, prayerfully, or both. What is divine about my creed If I am blind to human need? For you have said they serve you best Who serve the helpless and oppressed. (SASB 518)

MAJOR JANE KIMBERLEY

ADVERTISING (tel) 020 7367 4895 (email) advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH (tel) 01933 445451 (fax) 01933 445415 (email) keith.jennings@sp-s.co.uk DIGITAL SALVATIONIST Find Salvationist on Facebook www.facebook.com/salvationistonline

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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.

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN (tel) 020 7367 4500 (tel) 0845 634 0101

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

Salvationist 31 August 2013

PAPERS

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS BISHOP INVITES BIDDERS INTO HIS ‘DEN’

Groups developing new ways of attracting people into the Church in Cornwall are being asked to compete for funding in ‘Bishop’s Den’ – a BBC TV Dragons’ Denstyle competition… But instead of a grilling by entrepreneurs… their inquisitors will be a panel of West Country church, charity and business leaders, chaired by the Bishop of Truro, the Right Rev Tim Thornton. Successful schemes in the Bishop’s Den will receive grants of up to £100,000. The leader of the project is the Archdeacon of Cornwall, the Venerable William Stuart-White, who has earmarked about £250,000… ‘The kind of criteria we are looking for is imaginative, collaborative and maybe a bit risky,’ the Archdeacon said. ‘I would like to see an evangelistic project that gets the gospel in word out to the people of Cornwall; projects that really demonstrate the Church serving its community – maybe even pilgrimage trails for tourists.’

PRIEST WHO INSPIRED FISHERMEN MOURNED A government minister in Northern Ireland has paid tribute to a priest who helped to create Europe’s largest wild eel fishery. Michelle O’Neill, Agriculture Minister, said that Father Oliver Kennedy, who has died at the age of 83, was ‘an inspirational figure’ for eel fishermen and their families. Father Kennedy helped fishermen in Lough Neagh, an enormous lake in the middle of Northern Ireland, buy shares in the company they worked for and then form a co-operative. Pat Close, secretary of the Lough Neagh Fishermen’s Co-operative Society, said when Father Kennedy was asked to help the fishermen in the early 1960s ‘he had no knowledge of fish marketing or that sort of thing, but he took an interest at the behest of the parishioners’. The Catholic Herald

Church Times

FOOD CO-OP GROWS AND GOES ONLINE A Christian food co-operative has gone national and launched an online service. Daily Bread, a workers’ food co-operative based in Northampton, was founded in 1980 on the principles of equal pay for all, employment for the more vulnerable members of its community, ethical foods and a commitment to sourcing local as well as global produce. One of its founders, Roger Sawtell, said… ‘We are proud to have steadily built and grown this cooperative, which is not only an integral part of Northampton and the Midlands, but will now be available for the whole country to enjoy.’ Daily Bread has an annual turnover of about £1.5 million. All profits are either reinvested into the business or donated to the co-operative’s own international charity, Strive Overseas, which funds small projects, often in the countries from which Daily Bread sources foods. Church Times

FROM THE ARCHIVES – TEN YEARS ON THERE were smiles all round when three new junior soldiers were enrolled at SMALLTHORNE. Pictured (from left) with YPSM Paul Dale are Emma Preston, Bethany Dale and George Ikin. Bethany – daughter of the YPSM – was placed in an adjacent incubator to George in the Special Care Baby Unit when they were born. George’s family was invited to the Army, and all are now members. Emma came with her mum to the parent-andtoddler group, and has been a regular attender ever since. Family members and friends were present for the enrolments, conducted by corps officers Majors Colin and Val Harrod. News in ‘Salvationist’ dated 30 August 2003

Salvationist 31 August 2013

NEWS Drug and alcohol strategy announced SCOTLAND THE Salvation Army has launched a five-year strategic plan to help communities suffering from the effects of drug and alcohol misuse. The Army has committed £250,000 to the first phase of the project and the University of Stirling is funding a postgraduate researcher to address the needs of people seeking help and support. Lieut-Colonel Ian Barr (THQ) said: ‘We are concerned about the social and health effects alcohol is having on families and on the fabric of society in Scotland. This announcement confirms our commitment to social services in Scotland.’ Phase one of the strategy will position experienced drug and alcohol workers in Greenock, Stirling and Falkirk to mirror the work of the Greenock Floating Support Service. Phase two will see the plan extend further with the development of more satellite hubs based within corps across Scotland; a site has already been identified in North Scotland. The third phase will include the development of a centre of excellence, the creation of a research hub and provisions for specialised training and education. – A. R. TAVISTOCK: The SouthWestern Fellowship Band, supported by Response from Exeter Temple, participated in a music festival in St Eustachius church. They presented a varied programme of thought-provoking music to a large congregation, which included the Mayor and Mayoress of Tavistock (Councillor Harry Smith and Mary Smith). – L. P. CIRENCESTER: Sunday Club and worship group members led a Joseph-themed family service that included the YP prizegiving. Corps officer Captain Bryan Lang presented the prizes. – M. G.

Bristol Easton Band presents Hymns In The Park in Keynsham Park; the songsters and YP sections also took part

During a trip to Thorntons as part of their chocolate badge, Street brownies learn about the origins of different kinds of chocolate

Miracles can happen WELLINGBOROUGH MAJOR Val Mylechreest (THQ) led home and family ministries meetings as part of the 140th corps anniversary celebrations. She preached on the story of the feeding of the 5,000 and explained how great miracles can happen when people contribute their time and energy. In the evening café church, corps officer Major Paul Church interviewed Major Mylechreest, who gave, at times humorous, insights into her life and service. Corps folk also gave thanks for Home League Secretary Jessie Cooper’s 44 years of faithful service. She is pictured with Major Mylechreest. – J. P. Children from the parent-andtoddler group at Cardiff Canton display the Bibles they received as they prepare to leave the group and go to primary school Salvationist 31 August 2013

NEWS ALOVE online for participation THQ ALOVE has set aside a £5,000 Youth Participation Fund to allocate to projects that involve worship, discipleship, mission or social action. Individuals or groups of people aged 12 to 24 have until 30 September to apply at alove.salvationarmy.org.uk/ youth-participation-fund for up to £500. ALOVE are also running an online survey giving young people the opportunity to express how they would like to get involved with The Salvation Army. Everyone who gives their views at alove.salvationarmy .org.uk/youth-participationsurvey will be entered into a draw to win a free place at a Salvation Army residential youth event. – H. K.

At Morley, children celebrate the YP anniversary led by corps officer Captain Tracy Harrison

Young people take the lead STOCKTON THE YP anniversary weekend comprised a Saturday evening praise and worship event and YP-led Sunday meetings. On Saturday a chorus of Salvationists and friends from Stockton and other corps presented gospel songs, accompanied by an ensemble of brass, string, piano and percussion. Four singing company members presented a dance routine, concluding the performance by holding a large card declaring ‘Worship the Lord through dance’. James Zielinski gave his testimony and drew on his experience as a teacher. Major Nigel Gotobed (DHQ) brought the meeting to a close with some challenging thoughts. On Sunday all the young people were involved throughout the day with solos, Bible readings and prayer. The YP music sections and timbrelists also participated. – B. C. 6

Salvationist 31 August 2013

Portadown Sally’s Songs pre-school music and movement group celebrate the end of term with a picnic, songs and certificates of participation At Bargoed, corps officer Captain Tracy Jackson presents certificates of appreciation to Irene Morris for more than 40 years’ service and Parent-and-Toddler Group Leader Pamela Jenkins for 17 years’ service, to the parent-and-toddler group

NEWS Band and songsters lead the day NORWICH CITADEL THE band and songsters took responsibility for the 131st corps anniversary meetings and recognised Songster Margaret Mann’s 50 years’ faithful service. In the morning Tom Carr (cornet) played ‘I Surrender All’ as his testimony, Alison Fiddy presented the children’s story and Corps Secretary Janet Mann related notable songster events from the corps history book. Songster Sergeant Sue Benson led congregational singing, prayers and a time of reflection. Bandmaster Richard Woodrow led the evening meeting, which included a testimony period and further recollections of the corps history. A massed singing company of past and present members sang ‘Hand Me Down My Silver Trumpet’. – B. C. KIRKCALDY: Divisional Commander Lieut-Colonel Carol Bailey led the corps anniversary celebrations. A Saturday evening band and songster programme was well attended and focused on witness, celebration, reflection and commitment. The DC encouraged everyone to have hope and a vision. The evening finished with the song ‘The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Is Ended’. – D. A.

The Household Troops Band plays at an open-air meeting in the medieval market square in Lavenham; in the evening the band played in the parish church, concluding with ‘Vitae Aeternum’

Adherent member Linda Holden (right) hosts a coffee morning at her home, raising £75 for Oldham Roundthorn Corps

TUNBRIDGE WELLS: The whole congregation was encouraged to wear favourite shoes to the YP anniversary as the meeting leaders, Lieutenants Mark and Emma Scott (Raynes Park), focused on the shoes of peace in Ephesians 6:15. The meetings featured the children and youth sections and two new junior soldiers and four YP band members were enrolled and commissioned. The children brought the day to a close by singing ‘Wonderful Lord’ as a benediction. – J. S. MAESTEG: The Maesteg and District Male Voice Choir held a summer concert to help raise the profile of the corps in the community. Guest soloists Harvey Rees (cornet) and Rhian Hughes (vocal) participated, helping to raise more than £180 for corps funds. – J. P.

BURTON-ON-TRENT: More than £200 was raised for the Army’s anti-human trafficking work through a sponsored walk inspired by a visit from Andy Peddle. – K. A. Trowbridge parent-andtoddler group holds a mini sports day to raise funds for Dorothy House Hospice; the event raised £300 Salvationist 31 August 2013

NEWS

Anniversary celebrations consider God’s faithfulness PRESCOT LIEUT-COLONEL Marion Drew (THQ) led the 125th corps anniversary weekend, sharing treasures from the past and the present and looking to the future. Cadets Angelique and Cor Van der Woude returned home to share in the celebrations and to testify to God’s faithfulness

in their lives. New members and friends from toddler church, guides, Messy Church, the parent-and-toddler group, Knowsley foodbank, Prescot churches and the community also came together with the Sunday congregation to celebrate God’s transforming work in the town. At the fun day and barbecue, Lieut-Colonel Drew (back left) is pictured with corps officer Lieutenant Annette Booth and the Mayor and Mayoress of Prescot (Councillor David Rigby and Jackie Rigby). – A. B.

WEEK 27 Monday 2 September Romans 14 – Paul urges consideration of others O vv1–4: what had the believers in Corinth been struggling with? Is there a danger of over-simplifying this teaching? O v5: what sort of days do you keep special? Does it matter on what day the Sabbath is kept? (Exodus 20:8). Do you find this chapter liberating? Tuesday 3 September Romans 15 – Christians should accept one another O vv5–7: can unity be expressed through diversity? What is the difference between unity and uniformity? Wednesday 4 September Romans 16 – Paul sends final greetings and warns against false teaching O v17: what advice did Paul give to this church regarding false teachers? Is this advice something that will help or hinder the teaching in Romans 15? Should unity and acceptance be upheld at all costs - including that of doctrine and truth? Or does upholding unity sometimes entail creating a distance between truth and false teaching? Thursday 5 September 1 Corinthians 1 – Paul writes a prelude to the church in Corinth O v2: everyone who calls on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ is included in this greeting O vv10–12: division in the church seemed to be a frequent problem. Did Paul try to bring unity through sound teaching? O v17: why did Paul consider water baptism not part of his ministry in preaching the gospel?

Darlington corps officer Captain Colin Bradshaw presents John Paul Stabler with a £375 cheque for St Teresa’s Hospice; the corps raised the money through a Green Night when everyone wore green and brought a green item to be auctioned 8

Salvationist 31 August 2013

CLAY CROSS: Former corps officer Major John Matthews led a meeting on Billy Graham’s music. A packed hall learnt about Graham’s early music, which was considered too ragtime for hymnbooks. The congregation was moved by the words and uplifted by the tunes. – P. R.

Friday 6 September 1 Corinthians 2 – God’s wisdom revealed O In what way is the gospel easier for the intellectually humble to accept, than it is for the intellectually proud? How is God’s wisdom superior to any human wisdom? CIRENCESTER: The band joined Chesterton Primary School for the annual party in the park. The school choir and winners of the annual music talent show took part. The band

played a variety of pieces, including ‘Sing Hosanna’ and ‘Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel’. Deputy Songster Leader Mark Walters (euphonium) played ‘New Directions’. – M. G.

NEWS TC urges young people to be blessed and bless others WILLIAM BOOTH COLLEGE THE Essential Gap Year reached its conclusion with an end of year celebration in which 150 friends and family gathered. Videos gave a snapshot into the

students’ year. Many of the students testified that they had discovered so much more about themselves and their calling from God while on the gap year. Territorial Commander Commissioner Clive Adams spoke about being blessed. He summarised his thoughts with the comment: ‘Be blessed, and – being blessed – bless others.’ – H. K.

Castleford corps officer Captain Steven Fripp engages with young listeners as the songsters present an open-air meeting on the promenade in Bridlington; later the songsters presented a short programme at a care home and led the evening’s music celebration themed Celebrate And Sing Stockton Band presents a Saturday evening festival at Darlington to mark the 134th corps anniversary; the celebrations started earlier with a day of witness at Darlington Carnival South Shields Brownies entertain residents of Palmersdene Care Home with music, dance, timbrels and poems; the event helped them gain their entertainers badge

A capacity audience sings and waves flags at Leicester South’s Last Night At The Proms concert hosted by Blaby Meridian Rotary Club; the programme led by Lieut-Colonel Trevor Davis featured guest clarinettist Richard Joyce and £2,525 was raised for Glenfield Hospital Cardiovascular Research Appeal

EASTBOURNE CITADEL: From the opening march ‘Montreal Citadel’ to the closing march ‘Mighty To Save’, South London Fellowship Band provided a varied and much appreciated programme on its

17th consecutive visit to the corps. The band paid tribute to former members recently promoted to Glory by playing ‘The Compassionate Christ’ and ‘To A Wild Rose’. – D. S. Salvationist 31 August 2013

LETTERS HOLIDAY HOME ROMANCE FOLLOWING the letters about holiday home memories (Salvationist 13 and 27 July) we feel we must share our story. In July 1964 we went, with our respective parents, to the SAAS (Salvation Army Assurance Society) holiday home at Cliff House, Southbourne. Friendship blossomed into love and in 1966, during our holiday there, we got engaged. The dining room was rearranged so we could have an engagement party with family and friends we had met there. Some folk seemed to go at the same time every year and so the friendships would be rekindled. A few years later we married and eventually answered the call to officership. Many happy memories come to mind of other Army holidays: Carlton House, Westbrook, in the 1950s where we children had to use the back door and wash the sand off our feet in a great big Belfast sink; Cliff House (1960s); and we even recall watching the first men walking on the moon while at St Christopher’s, Westgate. We are shortly to retire from active service but we thank God for placing his hand on our lives and bringing us together while on holiday at an Army holiday home. Are there any other long-term holiday romances from Army holiday homes? Keith and Agnes Wallis, Majors, Symonds Yat Rock

POSITIONAL STATEMENT COULD BE CLEARER IN response to the letters from Patrick Lethaby and Keith Fernie (Salvationist 10 August), I believe our fellowships and worship halls must always be open and welcoming to everyone. However, there are standards The Salvation Army must be clear about. In November 2011, I asked our divisional commander: ‘Can soldiers or adherent members enter into civil partnerships?’ The answer was: ‘This is seen as incompatible with soldiership in The Salvation Army.’ He added: ‘Dealing with these issues in a corps would always be a delicate matter and should be carried out in the context of supporting pastoral care.’ He also sent me a copy of the positional statement ‘Human Sexuality’ (revised November 2010), which is, I believe, what Keith Fernie refers to in his letter. The same criteria must therefore apply to the same-sex marriage Bill. I have also discussed this issue with a member of the Church of Scotland, whose decision, reached at their General Assembly, is still causing problems in their fellowships. Could the Army’s UK leadership put a clear statement in Salvationist regarding same-sex relationships so that there can be no misunderstanding? Eric Burgess, Clowne

POSITIONAL STATEMENTS ARE NOT BINDING AS a former member of the International and then Territorial Moral and Social Issues Councils, I see the need to clarify the purpose of positional statements issued by the councils. Soldiers sign documents and are publicly enrolled thus affirming their agreement with the Army’s doctrines and principles. Positional statements on moral and social issues reflect the general stance of The Salvation Army but are not binding upon the consciences of individual members, not least because such people have not appended their names to the statements. In other words the Army does not put members into straitjackets in their thinking. This point is summed up in a statement approved by the General in June 1996. Over the years the positional statement on homosexuality has been revised from time to time – the latest using the word gender – and doubtless will change with revision in years to come. For further reading, my book The Falling Leaf devotes a chapter to positional statements. Trevor Smith, Major, Norbury Readers sending letters by email should include their name, full rank if applicable and full postal address O The Editor reserves the right to edit letters or print extracts O Write to Salvationist (Letters), 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN or email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

Salvationist 31 August 2013

FEATURE

COUNTDOWN TO CONGRESS by Carol-Anne Latta SALVATIONISTS from across the British Isles are set to travel to Glasgow for the Territorial Congress led by territorial leaders Commissioners Clive and Marianne Adams at the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre on 2 and 3 November. The theme of the congress is Transformation and it will feature testimonies of transformed lives. Music is set to form a large part of the event, with participation in the meetings by the International Staff Band and International Staff Songsters, the All Scotland and Ireland Youth Choruses and a worship band. In addition to these, from the moment the doors open at 1 pm on Saturday afternoon, there will be music presented in various parts of the venue by bands and songsters and a ceilidh band presenting traditional Army songs with a Celtic sound. Other activities during the weekend include Women of the Word, a youth programme on Saturday evening, Kids@

Congress running parallel with Sunday meetings, a puppet show and a ceilidh. Throughout the event there will be a prayer room available and an exhibition area to explore. Lieut-Colonel Carol Bailey (Divisional Commander, East Scotland), who has chaired the planning group, says: ‘The programme has all the hallmarks of a truly inspiring event which will include traditional Salvation Army worship, peppered with contemporary expressions of praise, all wrapped up with a distinctive Scottish flavour. Book early so you don’t miss out!’ Major Russell Wyles (Divisional Commander, West Scotland) believes that the event is a perfect springboard to take Glasgow into an exciting year in 2014, with the Commonwealth Games less than 12 months away. He declares: ‘It’s a wonderful opportunity to give Salvationists a real boost! It will bring them together then send them back

home to really fulfil the mission of saving souls and growing saints.’ Visitors to the congress can also discover Scotland’s largest city, renowned for its culture and friendliness. Glasgow has something for everyone, from museums and galleries to shopping and restaurants. There will be live social media updates of the congress on Facebook and Twitter. For tickets, complete the booking form on pages 12 to 14. O For

further information visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/congress or contact Special Events, The Salvation Army, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN or call 020 7367 4860 CAROL-ANNE IS PR AND COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, MEDIA OFFICE, THQ

Salvationist 31 August 2013

FEATURE

FAITH IN ACTION Christine Thomas explains about the one collection that The Salvation Army runs each year to support the ministry of its social services programmes in the territory EVERY penny raised through The Big Collection goes to support The Salvation Army’s social services ministry in the territory, which costs a massive £86.5 million each year to run. In the present economic climate more people than ever are turning to the Army for help with life’s basic necessities of food and shelter. The Army is involved in social services because of the belief that everyone matters to God and so its ministry is offered to the whole person – body, mind and soul. Thousands of vulnerable lives depend upon a good outcome from this major fundraising effort, including people who are hungry, homeless and unemployed, as well as victims of domestic violence or human trafficking – plus those with drug and alcohol addictions together with older people and families who have lost contact with each other. Many people associate The Salvation Army with helping homeless people, but are sometimes surprised to hear about the other areas of ministry in which the Army is involved. The Big Collection is an opportunity to highlight the wider extent of Salvation Army ministry to the public. The material prepared for The Big Collection includes plenty of practical help for collectors and fundraisers. There’s Your Step-by-step Guide to Enjoyable Collecting with details of the various kinds of collections that can be made, including house-to-house, standing with a collecting box in a public place and static box collections. The guide also provides plenty of common-sense information that might

be helpful to new collectors and the more experienced alike. The design of the material is much the same as last year. Although the bright, fresh look might have seemed quite different to traditional colours of the past, the end result was successfully realised and so the new look continues. Fifty-one per cent of last year’s total of £2.2 million was collected houseto-house, which is a considerable achievement by the volunteer collectors and demonstrates people’s willingness still to give to the Army at the door. As fewer charities collect house-tohouse, the Army continues to do so, as well as using other methods of fundraising. An added bonus of the house-to-house collection is meeting the people at their homes. Sometimes collectors will offer a listening ear as concerns are shared. For some people, the visit by a collector will be an introduction to The Salvation Army and to faith. It is recognised that not everyone will be involved in the house-to-house collection. Some will stand in a busy public place with a collecting box or place static boxes in prominent places. This year a poster has been created with alternative collecting and fundraising methods in mind and can be used to draw attention to The Big Collection. Balloons and stickers have also been produced for use in places such as shopping centres. Many corps demonstrate ongoing support for The Big Collection by planning fundraising events through the year. Later, in November this year,

some corps will be holding a personal gift day for The Big Collection for people not involved in house-to-house collections or corps fundraising events, but who nevertheless want to financially support the ministry of the Army’s social services, or maybe give something extra. The gift day will provide opportunity for this to happen. The Fundraising Department at THQ has produced a wealth of resources for corps officers and leaders to tap into. These include a DVD, endorsed by Territorial Commander Commissioner Clive Adams, with videos of the programmes at Devonport House Lifehouse, Plymouth, Sir Samuel Kelly Memorial Care Home, Holywood, and Eva Burrows 1st Stop Project, Glasgow. In addition to these, there are worship and media resources and practical information. The house-to-house collection runs from Saturday 7 to Saturday 21 September. O For more information contact your corps officer, visit www.salvationarmy.org.uk/ bigcollection or call 020 7367 4816

CHRISTINE IS TERRITORIAL ANNUAL APPEAL AND SELF-DENIAL OFFICER Salvationist 31 August 2013

FEATURE

WALKING WITH THE GOD WHO TALKS Philippa Lalor shares a prayer resource that has been developed by 24-7/SA Prayer Network WHAT is Christian faith like for you? Is it a set of beliefs or is it an adventure? Is it a philosophy or is it a journey? Is it the theoretical concept of God or is it a continual walk in his company? We all need beliefs and a set of morals to live together harmoniously in community. However, our God is offering us so much more than that. Prayer is offered to us as a relationship â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a friendship between the Creator and the created. God is interested in us and concerned about us. Prayer is not a box to be ticked, but time spent between two individuals who love to be in each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presence and value the relationship. As in any other relationship, communication needs to be a two-way flow â&#x20AC;&#x201C; not us instructing God as to the way he should work, but us endeavouring to follow Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intention. When we decided upon a new prayer resource, we felt that the spiritual hunger in the territory was not only to draw closer to God, but also to really understand what he is saying to us, individually and corporately as The Salvation Army. With this in mind, we produced a resource - Prophetic Prayer - Walking With The God Who Talks - focusing on the lives of six individuals in the Bible who walked closely with God, heard his voice and brought lasting change to the world around them. Even being aware that this was an area of need, the demand we experienced for the booklet was surprising. Corps, small groups, individuals and groups outside The Salvation Army have found it informative and encouraging. Our aim is that in equipping corps and groups to walk more closely with God, we can share the peace, joy and worldchanging adventure he is leading us on. He may not lead us where we want to go, he may not make our plans successful, he may not lead us out of difficult places, 16

Salvationist 31 August 2013

but he will empower us to move mountains of injustice, give us messages to pass on and use us to bring healing and wholeness. In the last weekend in January 2014 our biennial Prayer Gathering will further develop this theme, encouraging us to deepen our prayer lives, to really hear what God is saying. We are pleased

Our God is talkative. The Bible leaves us in no doubt that he is constantly communicating and constantly seeking to bring us, his people, into his conversation. The only problem is that we often donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know how to tune in. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;When Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s people believe in him, they stand for something; when Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s people walk with him, they have a

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;

OUR GOD IS TALKATIVE. THE BIBLE LEAVES US IN NO DOUBT THAT HE IS CONSTANTLY COMMUNICATING AND CONSTANTLY SEEKING TO BRING US, HIS PEOPLE, INTO HIS CONVERSATION. THE ONLY PROBLEM IS THAT WE OFTEN DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T KNOW HOW TO TUNE IN.

â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

to have Spiritual Life Development Secretary Major Melvyn Jones and Assistant Spiritual Life Development Secretary Major Kathleen Jones as speakers, with their wealth of experience and inspiration. The conference will take place at The Hayes conference centre in Swanwick, Derbyshire, and is aimed at anyone who leads or is involved in prayer within the corps, whether officer, soldier or regular attender. There will be a variety of different teachings and practices of prayer to inspire, teach, encourage and refresh those who attend. Whenever we invest quality time in any relationship, we grow to know the other person on a deeper, more intimate level. We pray that each person will not only meet with God, but know his heart for them and the world around us.

transforming impact on the world around themâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (Prophetic Prayer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Walking With The God Who Talks). R5 ),5'), 5#( ),' .#)(5*& - 5 ' #&5 philippa.lalor@salvationarmy.org.uk or write to 24-7/SA Prayer Network, The Salvation Army, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN

PHILIPPA IS 24-7/SA PRAYER NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR, THQ

BIBLE STUDY

Unity in diversity by Major Karen Robb

S part of the ‘Go Deeper In God’s Word’ Bible challenge, I was reading Luke 23, where Pilate is questioning Jesus. One sentence stood out for me: ‘That day Herod and Pilate became friends – before this they had been enemies’ (Luke 23:12). The Message puts it: ‘That day Herod and Pilate became thick as thieves. Always before they had kept their distance.’ What it is that draws former enemies together? Recent events in Egypt have united many different factions against the Muslim Brotherhood. People from sometimes opposing viewpoints have joined together against the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. Diverse nations have united against various terrorist movements throughout history. Do you remember the bus advert sponsored by the British Humanist Association (BHA) that caused such controversy? ‘There’s probably no God. Now stop worrying and enjoy your life.’ The BHA was responding to another bus advert whose Christian sponsors stated on their website that non-Christians were doomed to spend eternity in Hell. These adverts provoked various responses. One Christian bus driver refused to drive a bus carrying the BHA advert. Other Christians devised a bus advert in response to it. The Rev Jenny Ellis, Evangelism, Spirituality and Discipleship Coordinator (Methodist Church) said: ‘The God many atheists have rejected is not the God we recognise. This campaign has opened up a dialogue that allows these types of misconceptions to be challenged.’

I sometimes have real difficulty in working out what I actually think about these issues and how, as a Christian, I’m meant to respond, without becoming like Pilate and Herod. How do we maintain unity with our families, neighbours, fellow citizens – our human race family – when seemingly insurmountable obstacles of morality, theology, community, faith and humanity stand in our way? Sitting in on some Bible classes recently, I was challenged again to understand the context and culture of when and why Scripture was written.

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I WAS CHALLENGED... TO UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT AND CULTURE OF WHEN AND WHY SCRIPTURE WAS WRITTEN

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In Genesis 1:26 and 27 we are introduced to a God who thinks highly of his creation and esteems human beings whom he made in his image, who have value as well as authority. God loves what he has created; he admires it, respects it and endorses it (Genesis 1:31). Giving humankind choice leaves God open to seeing potential realised but leaves us vulnerable when choices made are detrimental to our future wellbeing. Adam and Eve’s disobedience breaks the relationship (see Genesis 3). To understand and respond to the challenges of our day requires an understanding of the context and

approach in which God created the human race. Recent events in our own country, such as the murder of soldier Lee Rigby, polarise sections of society. One response is to seek to exact revenge. Another is to work for unity. The community in Woolwich refused to be torn apart by this terrible crime. The Muslim Council of Britain stated: ‘This… truly barbaric act has no basis in Islam, and we condemn this unreservedly. We call on all our communities, Muslim and non-Muslim, to come together in solidarity to ensure the forces of hatred do not prevail.’ How do we relate to and maintain unity with the people around us, who are different and hold different worldviews? If we come from a perspective that everyone is created in the image of God, we look to God’s provision of redemption in Christ. Christ’s birth, death, resurrection and ascension provide that mending of the broken relationship. It is Christ who does the work, not us. So, can we allow Christ to permeate us in such a way that our response is one of grace and love, rather than revenge and a tit-for-tat mentality? I don’t want to become a Pilate or a Herod in my thinking and understanding. I want the unity that I find only in Christ to percolate and infuse my world and the world around me. I still have a long way to go. How about you?

MAJOR ROBB IS A LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, SISTAD Salvationist 31 August 2013

NEW COMMITMENTS

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1. & 2. CONNOR JEFFRIES, DEAN MAWADZI, CHRISTIAN HANDLEY Soldiers MICHELLE HANDLEY Adherent member CLAPTON CONNOR chose to become a soldier because he believed that signing a covenant with God would give him something to hold on to when life was tough. Dean plays the drums for the worship group at the corps and was an adherent member, but felt God was telling him to become a soldier. The commitment shown by Christian in becoming a soldier so challenged his mother, Michelle, that she decided to become an adherent member and publicly recommit herself to God. – R. G. 3. KATHY BALL Adherent member TROWBRIDGE WALKING past the hall one Sunday morning, Kathy was attracted by the sound of singing. Since then she has attended regularly and is involved in Bible study and Cameo. Kathy was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Major Kelvin Lang. – S. S. 4. PEARL ADYEYE Soldier SOUTHEND CITADEL PEARL moved to the UK with her mother Mercy, who came to complete her doctorate. She felt welcome at the youth group and became involved in corps life. Pearl expressed her desire to 18

Salvationist 31 August 2013

be an established Salvationist before returning to Nigeria for university. – J. T. 5. – 8. ELIJAH CLIFTON, MEGAN JONES, BETHANY HOOK, TIMOTHY MUDIE Junior soldiers MAIDSTONE DURING the YP anniversary, Elijah, Megan, Bethany and Timothy were enrolled as junior soldiers by Cadets Rodney and Lillian Bean. – G. W. 9. & 10. JANET WOLSTENHOLME Adherent member MADDIX GRAYSON, MUTSA MVERE, ISAAC WILEMAN, CHIEDZA CHITSUNGO, NOAH LEWIS, MARGARIDA ROBEIRO (not pictured) Junior soldiers SHEFFIELD CITADEL THE congregation was pleased to welcome Janet into the fellowship as an adherent member and witness the enrolment of Maddix, Mutsa, Isaac, Chiedza, Noah and Margarida as junior soldiers. Janet was originally brought up by Salvationist parents at Sheffield Heeley Corps. She left the Army but when her daughter and family began attending she felt that she also wanted to make a commitment. Mutsa, Chiedza and Margarida came to the corps through the Kidz Club. Maddix attends with her grandparents and stepbrother, and Isaac and Noah attend with their parents. – G. B.

11. DOMINGO AUGUSTOS Soldier EWIN NGANGA AUGUSTOS Junior soldier BALHAM DOMINGO and Ewin knelt at the mercy seat to make their commitment to God together. Domingo joins his wife Josette as a soldier. – V. S. 12. OLIVER HAMPTON, NICOLA GOOCH Junior soldiers STOWMARKET OLIVER wants to go God’s way and Nicola wants to be in God’s plan. They enjoy singing and hope to join the singing company. They were enrolled as junior soldiers by Divisional Commander Major David Jackson. – M. B. 13. BERNARD SPOONER, MARY SPOONER Soldiers CHELMSFORD LAST September, Bernard and Mary attended Back To Church Sunday and immediately felt at home. They testified to how Jesus moved beautifully in their lives. When the couple made their commitment as soldiers, the congregation sang Mary’s favourite song, ‘My Jesus, My Saviour’. – E. W.

14. – 16. EDNA EVERITT Soldier GRACE OKPECHI Adherent member KIERAN BOOTH Junior soldier GILLINGHAM KIERAN attends the corps with his family and was supported by them and his friends at his enrolment. He plays drums in the worship band, YFaith. Edna, a former soldier, rediscovered the Army through Cameo. She testified to accepting Jesus when she was an evacuee and to God’s faithfulness. Edna and Kieran were enrolled by corps officer Major Haris Giannaros. Grace moved from Italy to the UK with her family earlier this year. She walked into the hall and said she was looking for a church that preached the word of God; she attends every week with her family. Major Giannaros welcomed Grace as an adherent member. – J. M. 17. & 18. PAT LAYTON, GRACE MULIMIRA Adherent members STOCKTON PAT returned to her Army roots after she was invited to the Christmas community dinner. She has attended the corps for more than five years. Grace attended English as a second language classes at the corps and subsequently went to the meetings. With her son, Arnold, she has found a spiritual home. – B. C.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS AND NEWS ARMY PEOPLE LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED O YPBL Cameron Laird, Airdrie O Divisional Envoy Ian McPhee, North Scotland MARRIAGES O Joseph Taylor to Songster Ruth Sharman at Birmingham Citadel by the Rev Nigel Taylor O YPBL David Edmonds to Colleen Wright at Dunstable by Commissioner William Cochrane WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Golden: O Majors Colin and Gwyneth Banks (7 September) O Rtd SL Jim and Songster Janette McKay, Bellshill (14 September) O Majors Hugh and Margaret McCaig (14 September) DEDICATED TO GOD Reece, son of Gareth and Rebecca Bygraves, at Potton by Cadet Kate Gregory O Oliver Ian, son of Ian and Vicky Scott-Garrett, at Birmingham Citadel by Majors Amanda and Stephen White O Tobias Alfred, son of Greg and Jo-Anne Whitaker, at Coedpoeth by Territorial Envoy Gay Tonks O Frankie

O Erden,

son of Domingo and Josette Augustos; Godwin, son of Maurice Bangu and Marline Nganga, both at Balham by Lieutenants Julian and Valerie Short

BEREAVED Sharen Furlong, Heckmondwike, of her father William Steeden O Major Christine Rennie of her brother Ian Rennie O Marjorie Price, Birmingham Citadel, of her husband Rtd YPSM Fred Price O Major

RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: O Colonel Jean Bennett (80 on 1 September) O Major Ivy Tutton (80 on 4 September) O Mrs Brigadier Gladys Black (95 on 4 September) PROMOTED TO GLORY Senior-Major Josephine Smith (née Lovett) from South Africa on 14 August O Ethel Aldridge, Burton-on-Trent Please note that soldiers’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 120 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes.

GENERAL ANDRÉ COX AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: O Australia Eastern, Wed 4 Sep - Mon 9 O Indonesia, Mon 9 - Tu 17 O New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga, Fri 20 - Mon 23 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER CLIVE ADAMS) AND COMMISSIONER MARIANNE ADAMS: O North-Western (installation of divisional leaders), Sat 31 Aug O Reading Central, Sun 8 Sep O New Horizons (Skegness), Wed 11 - Th 12 O Luton, Sat Sun 15 O William Booth College (welcome to cadets), Sat Sun 29 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: O New Horizons (Skegness), Fri 6 Sep - Mon 9 O Risca, Sat Sun 15 O William Booth College (welcome to cadets), Sat Sun 29 COMMISSIONER WILLIAM COCHRANE: O Switzerland (Global Christian Forum Committee meeting), Sun 8 Sep - Wed 11 O International Moral And Social Issues Council, Wed 11 - Fri 13 O UK, Christchurch, Sat Sun 15 COMMISSIONERS LALZAMLOVA AND NEMKHANCHING: O India South Eastern, Th 5 Sep - Sat 7 India Western, Sun 8 - Sat 14

COMMISSIONER FLORENCE MALABI: O Ghana (territorial women’s congress), Th 29 Aug Sun 2 Sep COMMISSIONER JOHN WAINWRIGHT: O India South Western, Th 5 Sep O India South Eastern, Fri 6 O India Western, Sat 7 - Mon 9 INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS: O Warrington, Sat Sun 15 Sep

Salvationist 31 August 2013

SONGSTER MRS MARGARET DUNSTAN, FALMOUTH TEMPLE MARGARET and her husband Barry arrived at the corps in the 1970s from the Methodist Church. She became a soldier and songster and was over60 club secretary for many years. She knew each of its more than 100 members personally. Margaret was also well known in Cornwall as a speaker and meeting leader at corps and chapels. Her faith was inspirational through many challenges in later life – including two forms of cancer and the loss of her son Stephen from cancer while having her own treatment. Throughout, Margaret remained true to her Lord and Saviour. A great encourager, Margaret was greatly loved by Barry, her husband of 50 years, and son Robert. – C. G.

O Mrs

ENGAGEMENTS

TRIBUTES

MRS ELIZABETH (LIZZIE) HAMILTON, HAMILTON BORN in 1922, Lizzie served as a corps cadet, company guard and songster and fully supported her husband in his commitments with the band. Her family were a great source of joy to her and all who were touched and influenced by her life miss her greatly. – D. Z.

DENNIS CAMP, L’ISLET DENNIS grew up in a farming family on Guernsey. During wartime occupation he was evacuated to Stockport. Thanks to some Salvationists who prayed for him during a period of hospitalisation, Dennis found the Lord as his saviour later in life. In 1994 he attended a sea baptismal service and, while listening to Christian testimonies, remembered the Salvationists who had prayed for him. That day, he put his faith in God. He was baptised and began a Christian journey that led to him making L’Islet Corps his spiritual home. Dennis became a soldier and enjoyed every

aspect of corps life. He faithfully served the Lord and gave his testimony whenever he could. – J. H.

MRS SHANTI BHAMRA, GREENFORD BORN in 1926 in Tanzania, Shanti came to England from Uganda in 1973 with her husband and ten children. After her husband’s death in 1982, Shanti became very depressed and would not go out. A friend took her to the Army at Southall Citadel, where she soon made more friends and enjoyed worship. She was given a

Swahili Bible, learnt to read and became a soldier in 1987. Transferring to Greenford when the corps closed, she often gave her testimony about her earlier struggles and the great difference the Saviour had made in her life. Family and friends thank God for Shanti’s faithfulness and praise God for her life. Her influence lives on. – K. D.

MRS BERYL BARRETT, KING’S LYNN BORN to Salvationist parents in King’s Lynn in 1928, Beryl grew up taking an active

part in all activities – later becoming a soldier, songster and home league treasurer. She married Alan and had six children. The family later moved to Greenford, where Beryl maintained her enthusiasm in the songsters and home league singers. She was also a keen collector, helping with carolling and the annual appeal. In retirement the couple returnd to King’s Lynn, where Beryl helped at Cameo. Her faith was strong; she was a good influence to her family and faithfully maintained her witness throughout her life. She is now with the Lord and her husband Alan, who died last year. – K. D.

The Mayor of Carnforth (Councillor Bob Roe) opens the new charity shop, giving the Army a presence on the high street

Children’s testimonies inspire congregation LAUNCESTON AND TAVISTOCK

Robert Halfon MP (centre) opens Harlow’s new charity shop in the presence of corps officer Major Glenda Holifield, shop staff and town

PLYMOUTH Exeter Hall Whitleigh Singing Company and learners band presented a Sunday afternoon praise meeting at Launceston. Each of the children inspired the capacity congregation with their personal testimonies before travelling to Tavistock, where they led the evening meeting. Everyone who heard them was impressed with the quality of music provided as some of the young people had been playing for only a few months. – L. P.

chaplain the Rev Robert Findlay (left)

Churches in Prescot unite to operate through Knowsley foodbank; the distribution centre will run weekly at the corps Salvationist 31 August 2013