Salvationist 3 aug 2013 by The Salvation Army UK and Ireland

SALVATIONIST

Essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army // www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

3 August 2013 // No. 1409 // Price 60p // Also available digitally

Pages 12 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 14

CONTENTS 3.

FROM THE EDITOR

13.

4. PAPERS This week’s quotes from the papers and picture caption competition results 5.– 10. NEWS IHQ // Letchworth // Worthing // Bourne // Carnforth // Morley // William Booth College // Batley // Leicester South // Boscombe // Sheringham // Dudley // Abertillery // Feltham // Bedlington // Enfield // Bolton Citadel // Southern // Penarth // Yorkshire // Perth // Droitwich Spa // Tredegar // Winton // Kilmarnock // Sherburn Hill // Lockerbie // Norwich Citadel // Derby Central // Newcastle City Temple // Rushden // Batley // Worcester // Skewen // Kettering Citadel // North-Western // Rayleigh // London Central // Wellingborough // Winchester // Brighton Congress Hall // Inverness // Falmouth Temple // 8.

NEW TESTAMENT BIBLE READING CHALLENGE

11. FEATURE Go deeper in faith – by stretching 12. – 14. FEATURE Coffee, conversation and conversion 15. Death is coming!

THINKALOUD

16. BOOK REVIEW The Money Mentor 16. Hot tube!

TRAINLINES

17. Giving a hand up

BIBLE STUDY

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

ANNOUNCEMENTS

22. & 23.

ADVERTS

24.

THROUGH THE WEEK WITH SALVATIONIST

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

Salvationist 3 August 2013

FROM THE EDITOR

ADAPTING TO CHANGE NOT so long ago, many corps in the territory had quite predictable weekly programmes that included Sunday open-air meetings and pub-booming on Friday and Saturday evenings. These activities were seen as opportunities to make contact with people and introduce them to the gospel as well as raising income for the corps – but times and lifestyles change. Many of the pubs we once ‘boomed’ are now closed and if they are still open they have been forced to diversify to survive and may now include such facilities as restaurants, takeaways and children’s play areas. Sleepy neighbourhoods that used to be woken on Sunday mornings by the sound of the band are now busy with car boot sales and leisure activities. New commitment reports indicate that for some people their first contact with the Army is through the various community programmes: the drop-in, lunch club or charity shop to name but a few. Only recently we featured new members who had first visited a food bank. In the final part of the Food Poverty Bible study series (page 17) Dr Helen Cameron asks: ‘How can we prevent handouts from becoming a trap rather than a hand up?’ Whether you’re engaged in food banks or not, this is a pertinent question for anyone involved in practical service. Selling the Army papers on the street is another way of reaching people. Since we highlighted Tunbridge Wells War Cry sellers, a number of people have contacted us to say what this ministry means to them and to their customers. It’s also interesting to hear about other ways that corps are reaching out to their communities with the gospel. Many high streets reflect the times with a predominance of charity shops, pound stores and empty premises.

SALVATIONIST GENERAL INQUIRIES (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist (fax) 020 7367 4691 EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Laura Barker – (tel) 020 7367 4893 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Kersten Rieder – (tel) 020 7367 4894

However, it seems that, despite the recession, we’re still drinking coffee and some coffee shop chains have grown. On pages 12 to 14 Major Rosemary Dawson discovers corps that are engaging in ministry through coffee shops. She describes their various experiences and how meaningful contacts are being made. One thing that hasn’t changed is the opportunity to minister to bereaved families. John Coutts (page 15) writes about changes in attitude towards death. He observes how the modern world prefers to keep mortality out of sight and asks how we can meet the needs of mourners who attend Salvation Army funeral services. I suppose it’s all about being in touch with what’s happening around us. The apostle Paul, writing about his freedom in Christ, had this to say: ‘I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings’ (1 Corinthians 9:22 and 23).

MAJOR JANE KIMBERLEY

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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

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. © 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 CHIEF OF THE STAFF Commissioner André Cox TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Clive Adams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Martin Hill

Salvationist 3 August 2013

PAPERS

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS LONDONERS ‘LOVE CHURCH’

Church attendance in London grew by 16 per cent between 2005 and 2012 with numbers rising from 620,000 to 720,000. No other part of the UK has seen such dramatic church growth. The rise in churchgoing is revealed in the London Church Census report… Most of the growth is accounted for by women, with five new women coming to church for every new man. Almost half of inner London churchgoers are black. The survey found that there are now 140 churches with more than 800 people attending each Sunday… Young people are attracted to large churches and 6 per cent of men and women in their twenties in London go to church, twice the proportion for the rest of England. The Church of England Newspaper

HAS DIG UNEARTHED ROYAL DAVID’S CITY?

The political row over the Government’s decision to abandon a minimum price for alcohol has been condemned by the Churches. A joint statement from the Church of England, Methodist Church, the URC, The Salvation Army and the Quakers said the Government had broken its pledge. The decision, together with a similar one on cigarette packaging, was the focus of angry exchanges during Prime Minister’s Questions… The Churches said that claims made by Jeremy Browne, Minister for Crime Prevention, that there is not enough ‘concrete evidence’ on alcohol pricing ‘flies in the face of five years of medical research’. The Church of England Newspaper

Archaeologists in Israel believe that they have discovered the remains of a palace built by the biblical King David. It is the first time that archaeologists have found a monumental building thought to be associated with him. This discovery, together with other finds from the site, is likely to transform the academic world’s understanding of early Israelite history… The discoveries are important because they seem to confirm an important element of the biblical account of Israelite history: that state formation and urbanism began in the Jerusalem area in about 1,000BC – that is, in the period traditionally associated with King David.................................... Church Times

ALCOHOL U-TURN ATTACKED BY CHURCHES

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS INCREASE THE RISK OF CYBER BULLYING Teenagers are at risk of cyber bullying during the summer holidays as they spend more time online… Almost a quarter of 12 to 16-year-olds spend more than five hours a day online during the holidays, while averaging just over an hour during term time. Some 20 per cent admitted interacting with strangers online – and 25 per cent said they had witnessed cyber bullying. The Times

PICTURE CAPTION COMPETITION RESULTS On 13 July Salvationist requested captions for this picture showing William Hinchcliffe (Staines) getting into the spirit of things after watching the Household Troops Band play at the Albert Memorial during Gospel Arts weekend. Here is a selection of the best captions:

(To little girl behind him) ‘ You should have seen the size of this flag before my mum washed it.’ Jenni Barker, Failsworth

‘Daddy said the bandmaster is always on the lookout for new members.’ Joy Lewis, Yeovil

‘Well, with these gloves, I can’t very well play the cornet – I could eat one though!’ Thomas Trenton, Godalming

This trooper looks like he’s flagging. Alice Dawson, Mousehole 4

Salvationist 3 August 2013

NEWS Sign up for High Council news

Mercy seat emphasis at centenary weekend

IHQ

LETCHWORTH

SALVATIONISTS and friends from all over the world are encouraged to sign up to an email subscription service to receive instant news and updates during the 2013 High Council. IHQ will publish daily bulletins and send a link to the live-streaming video site when the announcement of the new General is imminent. Visit www.salvationarmy .org/highcouncil2013 to sign up. – A. R.

THE 100th corps anniversary celebrations began with a meal at a golf club attended by more than 80 members of the corps family. General Shaw Clifton (Retired) led the Sunday morning meeting and spoke about the mercy seat. Many knelt at the place of prayer in response. After a faith lunch the congregation, band, songsters and timbrelists participated in an open-air meeting that attracted families with children. Many received party bags as a reminder of the event. – D. F.

Encouraging men’s ministry conference WORTHING A SMALL group from Worthing attended The Gathering, a three-day annual conference organised by Christian Vision for Men. At the conference more than 100 men made decisions to follow Christ and many others among the 1,000-plus congregation made deeper commitments and prayed for their marriages and jobs. Darts, guest entertainers, sports cars and testimonies all formed important parts of the weekend. Delegates returned thoroughly encouraged and

with lots of ideas to make men’s ministry more effective. – D. H. BOURNE: Salvationists invited neighbours and friends to a corps barbecue for an afternoon of fellowship and fun. Many had never been to the Army before. – C. G. CARNFORTH: The band took part in the Armed Forces Day held in the town centre. Major Malcolm Watkins led the prayer time. – M. W.

Staff and cadets of William Booth College present a cheque for £7,255 to Major Heather Poxon (THQ), raised over the past 12 months for International Development project, Watershed

Corps folk at Morley enjoy a holiday-themed café church, taking the opportunity to relax, recover and be renewed in God’s love; they enjoyed doughnuts, ice-cream and playing in the sand

LEICESTER SOUTH: More than 1,000 people attended the community fun day, a free event for young and old. Activities included steam train rides, crockery smashing and wetsponge throwing; the joy of knowing God was shown to people who had never been to the corps or community centre before. The weekend finished with a family meeting on Sunday and

a songs of praise meeting at Shepshed. – J. H. BATLEY: Junior soldiers led the holiness meeting marking Junior Soldiers Day of Renewal. The youngsters recited their promise together in front of a supportive congregation. For the sermon, junior soldiers and their leaders performed a sketch about the prodigal son. – A. R. Salvationist 3 August 2013

NEWS Commissioner challenges congregation to stand firm BOSCOMBE COMMISSIONER William Cochrane (IHQ) led a day of reflection entitled Being The People Of God. In the morning meeting, the commissioner reminded the congregation that they have been called by God and need to stand firm where he has put them. Corps sections supported the meeting. The singing company’s ‘There For You’ created an atmosphere of deep spiritual awareness. The evening meeting featured band items interspersed with Bible readings. – R. C. SHERINGHAM: A large congregation greeted South London Fellowship Band at the first concert in a tour. The band played the festival march ‘Able’ and Alan Moyse (cornet) contributed ‘I’d Rather Have Jesus’. Dean Goffin’s selection ‘To God Be The Glory’ revived many memories before the band sang ‘Sound The Battle Cry’. Moments of reflection and devotion shared by Stuart Gilbert concluded with the sensitive playing of ‘His Provision’. – J. P. DUDLEY: An appreciative congregation received the Salvation Army Symphonic Wind Ensemble for a concert. Items included ‘Deliberate!’ and ‘The Power Of Your Love’. The songsters contributed ‘Torchbearers’ and ‘From The First Hallelujah To The Last Amen’. – M. L. ABERTILLERY: Major Noel Wright (THQ) led the 130th corps anniversary meetings. The music sections participated at the Saturday festival, which included a photo display. Sunday lunch at the community centre enabled former corps officers and soldiers to remember the past. – A. B. 6

Salvationist 3 August 2013

Salvationists from Bedlington enjoy their first corps retreat at Consett Youth Village with guests Majors Rik and Chris Pears, who spoke about discerning God’s plan

ENFIELD: Peterborough Citadel Songsters presented a festival of praise, enhanced by multimedia displays. A capacity congregation appreciated the varied style and content of a programme that not only entertained, but also challenged and inspired. The songs ‘We Go To The Rock’ and ‘We Saw Love’ brought people closer to God. In her epilogue, Captain Kathleen Versfeld (Peterborough Citadel) challenged everyone to respond to God’s call upon their lives. – A. F. Andy Peddle continues on

greeted by members and

Songs and centenaries

friends of Feltham Corps;

BOLTON CITADEL

his walkathon and is

a coffee morning raised £101 towards his £100,000 target. In the following days Andy met Reading Central corps folk and Willow House Lifehouse residents and accepted a cheque for £500 from the retireds’ band. At Woking Andy met charity shop workers and corps folk and then continued on his journey towards Guildford

MAJORS Ian and Yvonne Field led the celebrations marking the songsters centenary. On Saturday evening the sections presented Music For A Summer’s Evening with contributions from guest soloist Paul LovattCooper (xylophone, pictured) and the YP puppet team. In the Sunday morning meeting Major Ian Field spoke on Psalm 150 and Romans 12:1 and 2, highlighting the tremendous power in music. The weekend rounded off with a festival of song. – G. F.

NEWS Territories collaborate in training programme SOUTHERN STAFF from across the division and THQ attended a training session in collaboration with Australia Southern Territory. Nell Kuilenburg (Tasmania Division) and Dr Angela Spinney (Swinburne University, Victoria) visited to teach staff about a training programme and therapeutic resource kit – Safe from the Start – to equip workers to recognise the signs of domestic violence or abuse and to understand the impact it can have on a child’s development. The research demonstrated how violence can affect a child’s brain development and increase the risk of the child adopting violent behaviour, addictions to alcohol and drugs and mental health issues later in life. The innovative, early intervention project initiated by The Salvation Army in Tasmania has won several crime prevention and child protection awards. – A. L. O Further information can be found at http://salvos.org.au/children/ programs/safe-from-the-start/ or contact Southern DHQ

Safe delegates go deeper YORKSHIRE

ministries weekend after a visit to Blair Drummond Safari Park

FORTY delegates attended the divisional Salvation Army Fellowship of Endeavour (Safe) retreat at Cober Hill Conference Centre. Divisional Safe officers Majors Bernard and Kath Pyman led the retreat, themed Light Tomorrow With Today! Guest leaders were Majors Jack and Jean Middleton and Grenville Burn (Upper Norwood). All who gathered took the opportunity to ‘go deeper’. – B. P.

DROITWICH SPA: The youth weekend started with a summer ball for the corps Pro Fide youth group, raising £300 towards the building fund. The group also led the Sunday meetings using the theme ‘I’ll Fight!’ Reflective shadow dancing to the solo ‘Hide Me’ greatly blessed the

PERTH: A well-attended quiz night, held as part of home league weekend, raised more than £200 for the Living Water helping-hand appeal. On Sunday, Cadet Kay Blues, who entered training from the corps, spoke about the importance of passing on wisdom. – J. G.

Children at Perth continue the safari theme during the children’s

At Penarth, Divisional Commander Major Derek Jones presents Songster Barbara Spear with a certificate to mark 51 years of faithful service

congregation and provided food for thought. – M. M. TREDEGAR: The Merthyr Tydfil Fellowship Band led a songs of praise meeting for Christians Together in Bedwellty Park, Tredegar. The music was appreciated by all who attended. – L. B.

Salvationist 3 August 2013

NEWS

At Winton, artist Lynne Pugh, who is best known for painting during Spring Harvest worship, poses with a picture depicting the transformation of a butterfly, which she painted during café church

WEEK 23 Monday 5 August Acts 22 – Paul outlines his Jewish credentials O vv17–21: God spoke to Paul through a trance. Does he still speak in this way or was it an Early Church phenomenon? Tuesday 6 August Acts 23 – Paul escapes an ambush O vv6 and 7: Paul divided the Sanhedrin by using his knowledge of

different beliefs. Did he manipulate the truth or was his statement entirely accurate? Wednesday 7 August Acts 24 – Paul’s trial before Felix O v25: when Paul spoke about the judgment to come, Felix became

afraid and decided not to hear any more. Is this a subject that puts people off the gospel today? Should we avoid the subject for fear of causing offence? Thursday 8 August Acts 25 – When tried, Paul witnesses to Festus and King Agrippa O Compare Paul’s self-defence to the silence of Jesus at his trial. What do you make of the contrast? Mattie Orr presents a cheque for £600 from Kilmarnock Home

Friday 9 August Acts 26 – Paul’s testimony

League to Stephanie Rafferty of Headway Ayrshire charity

O Paul’s testimony shares his life experience to proclaim the gospel.

What is your life testimony?

At Sherburn Hill, corps officer Major Dawn Evans presents

As part of National Volunteers Week, volunteers at Lockerbie’s

Songster Jean Carmen with a certificate of appreciation for

charity shop, lunch club and Pop-in café display their

63 years’ service as corps pianist

certificates of appreciation

Salvationist 3 August 2013

NEWS YP weekend brings fellowship and fun NORWICH CITADEL YOUNG people’s leaders led YP anniversary weekend, beginning with canoeing and boating at Whitlingham Broad (right) on Saturday. Sunday meetings, themed All In This Together, included Max Barron being commissioned as a junior musician and a personal testimony from Hannah Carr. Kath Morley led a time of prayer and the young people presented a dramatised Bible message. Assistant YPSM Heather Green led the evening meeting. Many young people participated, presenting vocal and instrumental solos and gymnastic routines. Junior Soldiers Sergeant Dawn Carr led a prayer time in which each junior soldier prayed and Ewan Hall gave his testimony. YPSM Sophia Grimshaw led a reflective period of worship before the young people concluded with a dance presentation. – B. C.

Derby Central Songsters sing at the annual midsummer praise festival at Tunstall

RUSHDEN: Salvo Brass presented a Friday evening festival, continuing the 130th corps anniversary celebrations. The band presented a varied selection of pieces to a capacity congregation. – G. E. BATLEY: A fundraising evening raised more than £400 for a project in India. Explorer Scout Lily Webster will travel there for an 18-day stay to work at an orphanage and in communitybased charities. – M. B. Newcastle City Temple Learners Brass Ensemble gives its debut performance during the young people’s anniversary; led by Bandsman Adrian Sutton, the learners played ‘When The Saints’

WORCESTER: West Midlands Fellowship Band joined Warwickshire Boys Choir to present a concert at Worcester Cathedral. The band’s programme followed a classical theme and included Army classics ‘Laudate Dominum’, ‘The Light Of The World’ and ‘The Kingdom Triumphant’. – D. B.

SKEWEN: Swansea corps folk presented the musical The Wonder raising £239 for The Big Collection. Swansea corps officer Captain Alison Stone explained that the musical is set between Palm Sunday and Easter Day. The evening commenced with the congregational song ‘Here Is Love’. – P. B.

KETTERING CITADEL: Sheffield Citadel Band witnessed throughout the weekend by playing under the theme To Serve The Present Age. The highlight of the weekend was Leslie Condon’s ‘The Present Age’, setting the devotional atmosphere for the meetings. – B. H.

ENFIELD: Divisional Children’s Officer Major Graham Slader led the YP annual. Through the character Mr Potato Head, who appeared all jumbled up in jigsaw pieces, children learnt about being a body with many parts and that in God’s family there is a place for everyone. The day included a prizegiving ceremony and a praise party with food and messy games. – A. F. Salvationist 3 August 2013

NEWS Celebration encourages congregation to seek new opportunities NORTH-WESTERN THE adult and family ministries celebration took place at Southport Theatre and Convention Centre with Major Val Mylechreest (THQ) teaching on the theme One Heart, One Mind. The event featured testimonies, a flash mob, music contributions and drama presentations. Various officers shared with the congregation what adult and family ministry initiatives are happening at their corps. The helping-hand total amounted to £11,708 and Divisional Youth Officer Ryan Parkin received a cheque for £2,500 towards a mission trip to Malawi later this year. The song ‘Teach Me To Dance To The Beat Of Your Heart’ encouraged everyone to seek new opportunities in their area of ministry. – S. M.

WELLINGBOROUGH: The music sections participated in a Saturday evening praise party as part of the 140th corps anniversary celebrations. On Sunday, more than 70 people came to listen to a songs of praise event

in the park, attended by the Mayor of Wellingborough (Councillor Graham Lawman) and the Mayoress (Lora Lawman), who received a mug with the corps logo designed by junior soldier Chloe Pegg. – B. C.

Corps celebrates opening of new facilities

Ord and the chairmen of Rayleigh Town and Rochford District Councils. All corps music sections participated and the B-P sections were on parade. The corps is pleased to be equipped with a new platform, mercy seat, office, music ministries room and a prayer and counselling facility, all funded by legacies left by previous members and friends of the corps. – A. B.

RAYLEIGH AFTER extensive refurbishment and remodelling, the corps marked the hall’s reopening with a meeting attended by Mark Francois MP, Divisional Commander Major Norman

Young people from Inverness enjoy a challenging walk in Culbin Forest; to conclude the YP weekend, Divisional Youth Officer Nathan Loxley (Central South) and Helen Loxley (Bedford

Delegates seek God’s plan LONDON CENTRAL DELEGATES throughout the division gathered at Catford for the Discovery Weekend, led by Major Ian and Captain Susan Woodgate (DHQ), exploring Spiritual Purpose, Passion, Plan and Practice. The weekend brought together applicants for officership and others seeking to understand God’s will. The delegates led the meeting, telling their story through songs, testimony, dance and united readings. People knelt at the mercy seat, seeking to live out their calling for God in the world today. – I. W. WINCHESTER: Southampton Shirley Songsters and Commissioner Alex Hughes led meetings for the 127th corps anniversary celebrations themed Going In The Right Direction. Items included ‘By His Hand’ and ‘Total Praise’. The visiting section joined the home songsters for ‘I’ll Not Turn Back’. – T. D./R. D.

Bragernes Church Youth Choir from Norway participates in Sunday evening worship at Brighton Congress Hall, singing a mix of traditional English and Norwegian songs

Congress Hall) distributed prizes

Winton YP Band plays at Winton Recreation Ground after

Ladies at Falmouth Temple display 252 baby suits they knitted

marching through the streets during the carnival

for babies in Africa

Salvationist 3 August 2013

FEATURE

Go deeper in faith – by stretching says Nathan Bright

EING stretched sounds uncomfortable. I have images of people grabbing hold of my limbs and pulling me in different directions. However, stretching doesn’t have to be torture; it can be a good and beneficial exercise. I imagine that if I were to ask 100 people to come up with something that stretches, the top answer undoubtedly would be a rubber band. The rubber band is a pretty useful invention. When stretched it will get longer and longer, if you continue to stretch it, it may snap, or if you release it, it might ping back to its original state. However, what strikes me about the humble elastic band is that it is totally and utterly useless if it is not being stretched. To fulfil its purpose it requires an element of stretching. Another thing that can be stretched is an article of clothing. Clothes can quite easily (material dependent) become stretched. However, unlike the elastic band, when the stretching ceases, clothes – unless designed to do so – will not return to their original shape and form. A stretched item of clothing takes on a new shape and new look. It is changed. Our muscles are another prime example of something that reacts to being stretched. If you speak to any sports coach they will tell you that stretching is an absolute necessity before and after any sort of physical exertion. This is something that is very easily neglected. Often when I turn up for a game of football I forget about the importance of stretching and dive straight into the game. Stretching our muscles prepares them for what we are about to do, helps prevent injury and aids recovery. When I stretch to a

certain level I am conscious that, although at the time I may feel tension or even discomfort, ultimately what I am doing is beneficial for my body. I wonder what we think of when we consider stretching our faith. Often we can feel comfortable and happy with where our faith is. We do the same things time and time again, and our routine is such that we never really get stretched. It is easy for us to become like an unused elastic band. But for our faith to grow, we need to stretch it; our faith is only being usefully employed when we do so. What are you doing to regularly stretch your faith? Is your faith going to waste by not being exercised? When we stretch our faith, we should change. Something about the stretching should alter for ever who we are and

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FOR OUR FAITH TO GROW, WE NEED TO STRETCH IT; OUR FAITH IS ONLY BEING USEFULLY EMPLOYED WHEN WE DO SO

It is true – stretching can appear to be uncomfortable. If we remind ourselves of physical stretches: when you stretch, even just a little bit, you can feel the uncomfortable strain and tension. We can be uncomfortable at times in our faith lives, but we mustn’t give up. Just like the muscle stretches, we know and can feel that, despite the pain and discomfort, stretching is beneficial and will help and protect us for what is to come. It is very easy to neglect our spiritual stretching. When you go to church, don’t be so eager to enjoy the music or catch up with friends that you neglect your spiritual stretching. All the other parts of what makes up church are great, and in their own special way contribute to how we do church, but the purpose of being there is to prepare for and protect us during the days that lie ahead and to heal ourselves from those that have passed. Do you leave church feeling as though you’ve been changed? If not, I suggest you start stretching. O This

article is adapted from the ALOVE website alove.salvationarmy.org.uk

’’

prevent us from going back to what we used to be. In 2 Corinthians it says the old has passed and the new has come. When our faith is stretched, we need to be on the lookout for God to transform our lives. There is no use looking to stretch our faith but not wanting to change who we are.

NATHAN WORSHIPS AT PETERBOROUGH CITADEL Salvationist 3 August 2013

FEATURE

Coffee, conversation and conversion by Major Rosemary Dawson

VER thought of combining a cappuccino or latte at your local coffee shop with a spot of evangelism? An exciting new venture is increasingly taking Christians out of their usual comfort zones of church buildings or Army halls to do just that – and the idea is so simple, it’s working! An estimated 250,000 people now attend three different types of monthly events organised through Sunday Night Live (SNL), set up in 2009 by Johnny Kinch to promote ‘live entertainment with a twist of faith’. There are around 50 participating Costa Coffee outlets hosting a monthly outreach, with live music and speakers putting the Christian viewpoint, in a friendly way, on a variety of subjects. An agreement with Costa head office allows SNL access to all their UK outlets. ‘It’s not church held in a café,’ says Johnny, whose own conversion story was featured in The War Cry in 2011. ‘We are Christians recognising today’s coffee shop culture, and fitting into it. Starbucks and Café Nero also participate, but Costa is our main outlet. SNL handle all the negotiations and business side. ‘So far we’ve had only three or four Salvation Army centres participating – we’d be delighted to have more!’ Stowmarket Corps took up the challenge in February. Under the shared leadership of CSM Steve and Sandra Ambrose and Stuart and Vicky Hendry, their Costa Coffee outreach is held on the first Wednesday of each month. The sound of lively chatter above the coffee 12

Salvationist 3 August 2013

cups – and an average monthly attendance of 30 to 40 – suggests that the idea is catching on. HOW IT BEGAN Steve met with Costa – who have a strong community ethic – and Johnny Kinch. The initial start-up fee was around £200. The corps pays £50 a month, which allows it to use SNL’s log-ins to Twitter and covers administration costs. PUBLICITY ‘Costa display a billboard and window posters before each event,’ Steve explains, ‘and on the night we go round the tables getting email addresses. We then send reminders about the next meeting.

‘‘

PEOPLE ARE BEGINNING TO REALISE THAT CHRISTIANS ARE QUITE NORMAL – THAT WE LIKE SOCIALISING AND ENJOYING A NIGHT OUT WITH FRIENDS IN A RELAXED ATMOSPHERE

’’

THE PROGRAMME ‘When the store closes at six, we set up the sound system to open at seven. People start to drift in and order their coffees, ready for the music – secular pop chart music – to start at seventhirty. We have two music sessions, two short breaks and interview a guest speaker about their faith. ‘Our biggest crowd so far was standing room only for a school band, with about 60 people. Last month we had a jazz pianist.’ When I visit, the speaker is Jason, one of the musicians, who is also a teacher and street pastor. He talks openly about a relative’s influence that inspired a career change and a desire to ‘make a difference’ in the lives of teenagers. ‘We finish at 9 pm,’ Steve continues. ‘Not everyone stays to the end – people are coming in and out all the time – but there are usually about 30 left. ‘When we started in February, passers-by couldn’t see what was going on because the windows were all steamed up! With the lighter evenings, more are coming in to see what’s happening. We’re opposite a 24-hour superstore, so get a lot of footfall from that. STAFF REACTION ‘They’re always bopping around to the music!’ declares Steve. ‘The Costa area manager came to the first event and was really excited by it. He’s very keen to have more stores participating.’ Store manager Megan is also positive: ‘It’s different – the music is good and the atmosphere is casual and friendly. There

aren’t many places in Stowmarket where people can meet, so they come here to socialise. The Army people are very friendly, we always have a good chat.’ CUSTOMER REACTION One non-drinking couple like going because they can have a good night out, in pleasant surroundings, without having to go to a pub. Three first-timers give their opinion. One is looking for a new church and Amanda and Kristian came through a friend’s recommendation. ‘We’ve just moved here, so it’s nice to have somewhere to go,’ says Kristian. ‘We’ll definitely be coming again.’

CHELTENHAM CITADEL (Captains Steve and Melanie Smith) The corps ran a similar outreach with SNL for two years. ‘It got to a point when it was mainly church members attending,’ says Captain Steve Smith. ‘We felt we weren’t reaching the right people, which didn’t seem to make maximum use of

our time and money. The corps is now involved with other outreach projects, such as Employment Plus, but we would do it again if the circumstances were right. ‘Another reason for stopping was that the outreach leader was finishing and it wasn’t easy to find a suitable replacement. We can’t stress enough that it is absolutely essential to have the right people doing this kind of evangelistic outreach. It requires good people skills, not being afraid to engage in one-to-one conversations and being able to break the stereotypical Christianity mould that people expect. ‘Coffee shops are the new pubs – good places to meet and engage with people in a relaxed atmosphere, to show that Christians enjoy normal things CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

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DOWNSIDES? ‘Not so far,’ says Steve. ‘The greatest benefit is that people are beginning to

realise that Christians are quite normal – that we like socialising and enjoy a night out with friends in a relaxed atmosphere. Hopefully, by Christmas we can invite them to our carol service without anyone feeling threatened by it. ‘It’s a win-win situation. The Costa staff love it, we are promoting local music acts, making use of a local business and getting local people to meet with Christians on neutral ground and make friends. Everyone’s happy!’

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and build some good relationships. It has a great potential for good; some came to our Alpha course through Costa. ‘The people who came to it are much more open to coming to the Army or acknowledging us in the town. It’s moved their perception of us from negative to normal. It’s definitely worth doing.’ BURNLEY (Major Lorraine O’Neill) The corps has held monthly outreach at Costa Coffee for the past five years, with an average attendance of 50. The difference here is that they come under the umbrella of the Café Church Network. To be part of this, each church needs to be registered and leaders must undergo training. There is a charge of £300 for the first year, and £149 per year after that. Five years on, Burnley is no longer charged. ‘Our Costa is near a 24-hour Tesco, which brings a regular clientele and footfall,’ explains Major O’Neill. ‘Some have occasionally come to our meetings through it. Best of all, someone who came as a speaker brought a colleague, and the colleague is now an adherent member! ‘Church people often bring friends who are willing to go to a Costa, because it’s less threatening than church. USUAL MEETING FORMAT ‘We start at seven-fifteen for seventhirty,’ the major continues, ‘so people 14

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can get coffees and find a seat. Then we have an icebreaker – often a quiz, table against table. These are very popular. Sometimes we do a craft activity. At Easter we had egg-painting, and then asked individuals to give theirs to someone they didn’t know. ‘We introduce the theme for the night – this could be someone speaking about a secular subject from a Christian perspective, personal witness, singers or an organisation who do the whole event. This is followed by Table Time – set discussion questions on the theme for about ten to fifteen minutes – and Wrap Up, consisting of a very short thought or Bible verse – for example: “What the Bible says about…” – and relate it to everyday life. ‘Prayer cards are available for requests and we get quite a few back. Sometimes people come to us afterwards and ask us to pray with them. We try to place Christians on each table to answer any questions and have someone on hand to help with debt or other problems. ‘One night we had Adrian Plass as speaker. He lives quite near and offered his services. We’ve also had the Christian Bikers Association. One of our best nights was a country and western singer who toured with Johnny Cash. He had a terrific testimony. ‘It’s been a great five years’ ministry. I’ve loved it! One spin-off is that Costa has become a drop-off point for Christmas Appeal parcels.’

CHATHAM (Majors Alec and Andrea Still) ‘We don’t hold a conventional Costa meeting,’ says Major Andrea Still, ‘but meet there unofficially once a month for a book discussion club. ‘We find early afternoon more convenient than evenings for mums with children at school. Online discussion is also available for those who can’t make the meeting. ‘The club started just before we had to leave our hall for a building project two years ago. We discuss two books a month – a devotional book and a novel. A day out at IHQ produced a kind gift of some free books! It attracts people on the fringe of the corps. One partially sighted woman is able to download books onto her Kindle, which then allows her to take part.’ STAMFORD (Captains Ian and Margot Walford) Presently without a hall, Stamford has used a Costa venue to hold a Sunday morning Bible study during opening hours – with permission of the manager. They are hoping to make use of SNL in the future – when conditions are right – to set up a youth outreach project. Is this something your corps could be doing? If you think that this is evangelism with a capital ‘E’ and want to know more, visit Sundaynightlive.org.uk or email info@cafechurch.net

THINKALOUD

DEATH IS COMING! writes John Coutts AS a lad I was fascinated by the strange names given to hymn tunes. Where was ‘Duke Street’? Who on earth was the ‘Vicar Of Bray’? My teenage mind was greatly amused by No 238 in the old Salvation Army tune book, which bore the ominous title ‘Death Is Coming’. Few would have seen the joke in 1873, when the song first appeared in the Christian Mission Hymn Book, for death was an all-too-frequent visitor in those days. As the 20th century began, The Young Soldier – predecessor of our children’s paper, Kids Alive! – published a page entitled The New Year In Heaven. It announced the sad end of ‘David Talkington (aged 8) of Shepherds Bush, whom death took Home to be with Jesus after a fortnight of great suffering’. Also reported was the passing of Maggie Dudley of Annan, aged 10. ‘We have lost one of our brightest juniors in Maggie Dudley... but God knew best. Maggie was taken ill with a fever... She sang and prayed so sweetly and earnestly – and God’s presence was so near. There was an impressive service at the graveside... when everyone present was warned to be ready.’ You won’t find items like that in Kids Alive! – and the approach of the Grim Reaper doesn’t seem to feature in today’s lively worship songs. That’s partly because times have changed – and mostly for the better. Thankfully the death of children is much less common in the developed world, and modern medical practice would spare poor David Talkington his final ‘fortnight of great suffering’. Grown-ups live longer too, with many of us making it way past the Biblical span of ‘threescore years and ten’. But death will still come knocking one day and a longer lifespan brings new anxieties. Could we adapt one of St Paul’s great lines, and say that for our generation ‘the last enemy that shall be destroyed’ is... Alzheimer’s disease? (Compare 1 Corinthians 15:26). The modern world prefers to keep mortality out of sight, if not always out of mind. My first encounter with a dead body came at the age of ten – when I was taken to say a brief goodbye to Grandpa Lee as he lay in his coffin in the front room of his home. It was a solemn and unforgettable moment. But will my grandchildren likewise be invited to take a farewell peep at my mortal remains? If so, it will probably be round at the undertaker’s and not in the front parlour. Meanwhile, back in church, the faithful seem to hear as much about reforming this world as about getting ready for the next. Christian Aid, for example, has campaigned under the slogan, ‘We believe in life before death’. Hymns about Hell are few – and hardly ever sung. Such changes in Christian attitudes and practice are helpfully surveyed in The Art Of Dying Well published by the Doctrine Committee of the Scottish Episcopal Church. This study points out that the churches no longer have a near-monopoly on funerals, and notes that many new end-of-life practices have appeared – for example, cans of a

favourite beer being placed beside the tombstone of a dead motorcyclist. We are also reminded that the trend among Christians is away from a formal funeral service towards a short act of committal at the crematorium, followed by a service of celebration and thanksgiving back in the church. But do such rites leave enough space for grieving? The report points out that a Christian liturgy, unlike a purely secular ceremony, ‘is able to offer a hope that no celebration of an individual’s worth or merits – however substantial they may be – can hope to offer, namely hope for inclusion within the communion of saints’. Where do such helpful comments leave our Army? Do we meet the needs of the many mourners who come along with muddled and often contradictory beliefs and attitudes? Do our funeral practices recognise the bitter reality of death – and affirm the glorious hope of Heaven? Salvationist pioneers rejected the elaborate mourning customs demanded by Victorian culture, declaring that a Christian’s ending was ‘promotion to Glory’. How do we reaffirm this truth in an age which would rather we didn’t talk about death at all?

JOHN LIVES IN STIRLING Salvationist 3 August 2013

REVIEW AND TRAIN LINES

A SOUND INVESTMENT Captain Steve Dutfield (William Booth College) reviews The Money Mentor by Ash Carter WHEN was the last time you heard a sermon about money? If your experiences are similar to mine I suspect it was a long time ago. In this helpful little book Ash Carter reinforces this probable response when he writes: ‘Even though money is mentioned, on average, twice on every page of Scripture, we can go for months without mentioning it directly at church.’ However, in the pages of this book we are reminded of the importance of this subject. ‘It is arguable that materialism is the single biggest competitor with authentic Christianity for the hearts and souls of millions in our world today, including many in the visible church.’ By taking a biblical approach, his work explores the importance of having a sound appreciation of the importance of money as well as giving some good

practical suggestions for having a healthy attitude towards it. Each chapter commences with a brief scenario, and then the reader is invited to consider its implications for themselves. I like the way this is given as advice, rather than as a dogmatic insistence on what might be considered spurious scriptural grounds. However, Carter doesn’t shy away from addressing the crucially important necessity of establishing good principles for our giving, while honestly reflecting the need to look after our families and ourselves. This is a practical book, which includes some helpful tips on budgeting – particularly important for those who struggle with their money. Some of this is a bit technical and anyone needing this help would probably benefit from the support of trusted friends, but I sense his advice comes from a genuine

HOT TUBE! Major Val Mylechreest helps us keep on track OVER the past year I have tried really hard not to slip into the LUCCS (London Underground Commuter Complaint Society). I am only too aware that sometimes complaining seems to be the easiest and (dare I say it?) very ‘English’ option. We do like to moan, unfairly, with services such as Transport for London or the NHS. Yet we forget how often they work incredibly well and instead get caught up in complaining when things are not going smoothly. That being said, I had to smile this summer when I realised there was yet another weather-related travel problem. There had been the ‘too cold’ days, the ‘ice and snow’ days, the ‘leaves on the tracks’ days and now I’ve experienced the ‘too hot to travel’ days. There we were, on a very crowded tube, on a very hot day and, if I wasn’t imagining it, I am sure the heating was on! I looked around and realised that there was no means of ventilation – or escape! Whatever happened to the windows above the seats and the easy-to-open doors between carriages? The dreaded announcement came – deep in the recesses of an underground tunnel – we were delayed. We were waiting 16

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desire to see people released from the trap of debt and launched into a biblical approach to money. It must be recognised that money is a sensitive subject and what people give has to be between themselves and God. However, in setting out high biblical standards coupled with sound practical advice, this book may well be a sound investment for those struggling to manage their finances while wanting to ensure that their giving to God’s work is biblical and appropriate. O The

Money Mentor is available through www.ivpbooks.com (Inter-Varsity Press) at £8.99 with free UK postage

for ‘a green signal’ and we would get more information when it came to hand. What the driver meant was ‘we are stuck’. Until that moment, I hadn’t realised how much my childhood claustrophobia had affected me. The fear of being shut in an enclosed space for an indeterminate amount of time loomed into my thinking. Then I realised how thirsty I was. I had started the day with a cup of tea but if we were going to be stuck for a period of time, I would no doubt die of thirst. A man smugly sipped from his bottle of water with a look in his eye that said ‘this water isn’t for sharing’. I glanced around the packed carriage. I was glad to have a seat but felt that before too long I would need to offer it to an older traveller – certainly a downside of travelling in my uniform! I would surely die, on a crowded tube train, of a mixture of claustrophobia, thirst, heat exhaustion and… and then the message came that we had the ‘all clear’ and the train began to move. We had probably been stuck for two to three minutes. My mind had raced and I had become filled with all the possible tragedies that would never come to pass. I sometimes do that in other areas of life too. I spend time worrying instead of praying. Perhaps while I was worrying on that train that morning, someone else was praying! MAJOR MYLECHREEST IS ADULT AND FAMILY MINISTRIES OFFICER, THQ

BIBLE STUDY

Giving a hand up The last of a three-part series entitled Food Poverty by Dr Helen Cameron

HIS final study in our series on food poverty is based on the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11–32. Last week we looked at how corps can respond with stewardship and hospitality. Now we look at how our response to food poverty relates to our commitment to social justice.

HOW WILL WE PREVENT HANDOUTS FROM BECOMING A TRAP, RATHER THAN A ‘HAND UP’? Food parcels and other emergency help are designed to help people get over an unexpected emergency. However, if you are struggling to make ends meet it can be tempting and rational to build this free support into your budgeting and to keep coming back on a regular basis. This is where we may have to help people make difficult choices about their budgets and help them get the support they are entitled to from the benefit system. In his book Darkest England And The Way Out, William Booth pulls no punches in describing people’s problems. One illustration he used was that of the ‘cab horse’, which in his day pulled the taxis through the streets of London. He said that if one of these horses fell down, it was helped up to continue the work that enabled it to earn its food and keep. Some people in William Booth’s day felt it was up to poor people to sort out their own problems. Booth challenged this; he said that if horses deserved a ‘hand up’, then surely so did all the people living in London. The challenge we face today is similar: how do we give people a hand up and not just a handout? Read Luke 15:16–19. The younger son comes to his senses (v17) and decides to go back home. He rehearses

what he will say to his father; he plans to ask for work on his father’s farm in order that he will be able to afford to eat. A significant difficulty in offering handouts is that people will rehearse the stories they think we want to hear. Some food banks give people their first food parcel before listening to their story. Other food banks only help people who have been referred by another agency, and hold that agency to account for listening to the person and resolving their problems. HOW WILL WE FIGHT FOR JUSTICE? We are likely to be approached by people whose relationship with the benefit system has broken down in some way. It may be a breakdown in communication or it may be that the person can’t accept what is being asked of them. Acting as advocates with the JobCentre can be a vital part of working for social justice. We are privileged to live in a democratic country, which

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HOW DO WE GIVE PEOPLE A HAND UP AND NOT JUST A HANDOUT?

form relationships with their local Salvation Army corps or centre. However, it may be that as we learn about problems we realise there are aspects of the new system that aren’t working for most people. The Salvation Army has a special position because it helps so many people. The Public Affairs Unit at THQ can contact government departments with a national overview. Contact can be made through publicaffairs@salvationarmy.org.uk. Read Luke 15:11–32 again and remind yourself of the whole story. Imagine that, after the party at the end of the story, the two brothers finally talk to each other. What might each need to say to the other for justice to be restored? SUBJECTS FOR PRAYER the Lord’s Prayer and then thank God for what you regard as your daily bread O Pray for those facing problems with the benefit system O Pray for your local councillor and MP by name (visit www.theyworkforyou.com) O Say

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means that, where the system is not working, people have a right to appeal to the politicians who are responsible. This may be the person’s MP or local councillor, depending on what the problem is. We may be able to help them make contact and explain why the system is not working for them. It is then the politician’s duty to hold the system to account. Politicians are often happy to

HELEN IS HEAD OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS, THQ Salvationist 3 August 2013

NEW COMMITMENTS

6. 1. & 2. DAVID DODSON, AARON THOMAS, MELANIE FLY Soldiers MATTHEW FLY, JOY HARRIS Adherent members STAINES AFTER moving from their home in Texas, USA, Melanie and Matthew, with their three children, were looking for a church to attend. They were impressed by the warm welcome received at the Army and wanted to get involved. Melanie decided to become a soldier and Matthew an adherent member. They testified to having a deep desire to serve God in whatever way he may lead them. David attended church while at university but then slowly drifted away. He realised he needed God in his life and eventually found his way to the Army, attending Alpha and Freedom In Christ courses. David testifies to a growing relationship with God that led him to become a soldier. Aaron grew up in the Army but his interests gradually waned when he was a teenager. However, a renewed awareness of God in his life and encouragement from family and corps members led him to decide to become a soldier. A former member of the Spiritualist Church, Joy became aware of the power and purity of God and this led her to become a Christian again. A couple of years ago, she felt called to attend the Army and found a warm welcome. She testifies to the faithfulness of God. Corps officer Major Stephen Perkins enrolled Melanie, David and Aaron as soldiers and welcomed Matthew and Joy as adherent members. – C. P. 18

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5. 3. TONY WILSON Adherent member LOUTH TONY had been attending the corps for some time and decided he wanted to make a commitment. Corps leader Territorial Envoy Bernard Snook welcomed him as an adherent member. – B. S. 4. BOB FOULKES, BERYL FOULKES Soldiers CANNOCK FORMER Salvationists Bob and Beryl started attending the corps about a year ago. During the TC’s visit to the corps in March, the couple decided it was time to make a commitment to soldiership. Since then Beryl has been unwell, but that did not deter her from making a commitment. Bob and Beryl were thrilled to be enrolled as soldiers by corps officer Major Nigel Govier at Russell Hall Hospital in Dudley, supported by Colonels Iris and Keith Wylie. – N. G. 5. KERRY PELZER Soldier MAESTEG CORPS officer Major John Pugh enrolled Kerry as a soldier. Kerry, pictured with Majors Ann and John Pugh, testifies that he realises God has a plan for his life. – J. P. 6. DENISE FERNANDO, ASHLEY FERNANDO, LUCY TURNBULL Junior soldiers MIDDLESBROUGH CITADEL DENISE, Ashley and Lucy were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Major John Ager. Lucy attends with her grandparents. Denise and Ashley began attending with their parents after relocating from the Philippines. Family and friends joined them at the mercy seat as they signed the junior soldier’s promise. – J. A.

7. NICK TURPIN, DAVID PARKE Soldiers BROMLEY TEMPLE UP until his parents died in 1970, Nick had attended various churches regularly. It was not until last year that he linked up with the corps and decided to become an adherent member. Lately, he has felt ready to make a further commitment as a soldier and testifies to having a different view of life and himself since becoming part of the fellowship. David sang in local Roman Catholic and Anglican choirs in Norwich before moving to London aged 17. He stayed involved in church life until his mother died about five years ago. Last year, David accepted an invitation to the corps during an open-air meeting and subsequently decided to make a commitment. – B. F. 8. LINDA WYSE, LEANNE WESTWATER, JEANIE SCOTTSQUIRES, GEORGE SCOTT-SQUIRES Adherent members COWDENBEATH CORPS officer Major Mary McDonald welcomed four adherent members during the 120th corps anniversary celebrations. Linda first went to the corps on Christmas Eve to support her children, who are part of the youth club. She accepted the challenge to make a commitment and has since faithfully helped with the parent-and-toddler group. Leanne grew up in the Army and attends regularly. She is involved in youth and children’s ministry and leading the youth Bible study. Jeanie and Scott had links to the Army over the years, but decided to make the corps their spiritual home after moving to the area. Valuing the rich fellowship, they decided to make commitments as adherent members. – M. M.

9. GWEN GOLDSMITH, CHRIS GOLDSMITH, JANET LEVITT Adherent members MILTON KEYNES CORPS officer Captain Annette Allen welcomed three adherent members. Chris and Gwen testified to the warm welcome they have received and how much they feel part of the fellowship. Janet spoke about her past and present journey of faith. – M. A. 10. LESLEY BEALES, JOHN BEALES Soldiers TIVERTON LESLEY and John were not in a good place just over a year ago. For Lesley, the ‘I’ll Fight!’ Congress was a turning point in her life and since the congress the Holy Spirit began an amazing transformation in John’s life, leading them to make further commitments. They thanked the corps for all the support, love and welcome given to them since that moment. – D. B. 11. DAWN GRIGG Adherent member SHIPLEY CORPS officer Major Reg Melton welcomed Dawn as an adherent member. For her parents, it was an answer to prayer that Dawn decided to return to the Army. She testifies to having found a warm and accepting welcome and is pleased to affirm her faith in Jesus. – R. M. 12. SUZANNE MASTERS Soldier TEDDINGTON SUPPORTED by family and friends, Suzanne, who has been attending the corps for the past two years, shared a powerful testimony about her walk with Jesus, challenging all those present. Suzanne was enrolled as a soldier. – R. K.

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ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED O CT Trevor Grant, Chatham O CT Stuart Cater, Halifax O YPSM Neil Gallagher, North Shields WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond: O CSM Dougie and Doreen Taylor, Carnforth Golden: O Majors Leslie and Pauline Stanforth (13 August) DEDICATED TO GOD Grace, daughter of Richard and Alice Nunn, at Ashford by Lieutenants Tim and Christianne Swansbury O Jack James, son of Darren Pape and Gemma Shaw, at Whitehaven by CS John Shaw O Ethan James, son of Nathan and Laura Rockey, at Staines by Major Julie Johnson O Joshua Nyasha, son of Alfonce and Marjorie Muzorori, at Eccles by Lieutenant Jon Bishton O Oscar Gary Phillip, son of Victoria Gordon, at Dartford by Lieutenant Zoe Smith O Rosie

BEREAVED O Major Robert Dalziel of his brother William O Barry Dunstan of his wife Songster Margaret Dunstan, Robert Dunstan of his mother, both Falmouth Temple RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: O Mrs Lieut-Colonel Florence Drury (101 on 7 August) O Major Brenda Crozier (80 on 8 August) O Mrs Major Gladys Hook (90 on 12 August) PROMOTED TO GLORY Smith, Ashford O Geoff Store, Dartford O Alex

OFFICIAL GAZETTE UK Territory MARRIAGE O Lieutenant Mark Scoulding, Campbeltown, to Grace Brophy on 20 July CLIVE ADAMS, Commissioner,

TRIBUTES MRS KITTY HARRISON, DUNSTABLE PROMOTED to Glory at the age of 98, Kitty was a lifelong Salvationist. Throughout the years she served in various roles, including primary sergeant, corps cadet guardian, songster sergeant and organist and home league treasurer at Buckingham, Hadleigh, Nunhead, Harpenden, Hemel Hempstead and Dunstable. Many tributes remember Kitty as a great encourager of people – like Barnabas, her favourite Bible character. Never in the limelight, but quietly encouraging and supporting others, her gentle and faithful witness is very much missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. – J. H.

MRS JOAN MACKEY, SOUTH SHIELDS BORN in 1935, Joan was dedicated to God at the Army and enrolled as a soldier at the age of 15. A fully committed songster and bandswoman, she served God through the years as singing company leader, assistant YPSM, corps cadet guardian and corps secretary. For 18 years Joan also served the community as a magistrate – becoming Chairman of the Family Courts, a mentor and a member of the Lord Chancellor’s Advisory Committee. In retirement she served on the Schools Tribunal Bench. Her family were a great source of joy to her.

ENGAGEMENTS THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: O Scotland Council, Th 22 Aug O Edinburgh Gorgie, Sat Sun 25 INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND: O USA Eastern, Th 1 Aug - Mon 5

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They, together with all who were touched and influenced by her life, miss her greatly. – R. M.

GORDON WILLIAMS, WILLIAMSTOWN BORN in 1937, Gordon grew up in Williamstown where he was a YP band member with his brother and sister. During National Service in Germany, as an RAF bandsman he played in a red shield band under Colonel Albert Jakeway. Gordon returned to the Army in recent years after the death of his mother, who was No 1 on the roll. He helped the band during carolling, taught children to play instruments and helped paint the hall. Gordon liked to offer lifts in his car. He was killed in an road accident while giving a neighbour’s daughter a lift to school. A cheery, bright and positive man with a friendly nature, he is sadly missed. – D. W.

BARBARA WENNELL, PLYMOUTH EXETER HALL WHITLEIGH BARBARA was born in Plymouth in 1932. She attended Exeter Hall Corps with her family, taking an active part as a good pub-boomer. Barbara was also a faithful home league member. She took her knitting to the meeting, making blankets and jumpers for charity. This highlighted her generosity. In recent years Barbara suffered ill-health before her promotion to Glory. She is sadly missed by family and friends. – K. S.

RETIRED SONGSTER LEADER BRAMWELL CHESTNEY, HADLEIGH TEMPLE BRAM was born into a Salvationist family at Hollinwood, Manchester. In 1954, at the age of 19, he entered the Soulwinners Session and was commissioned the following year. After marriage to Ruth in 1957 they were stationed at Tiptree before being appointed to Scotland. In 1964 they moved to Hadleigh in Essex,

where for more than 48 years Bram held senior local officer positions of songster leader and bandmaster. In addition to his corps activities, he was chaplain to the South London Fellowship Band, a role that was very dear to him. He also shared his love of music by teaching for 11 years at Saturday music schools. Bram’s quiet Christian influence is missed by his family and those who knew him. – S. C.

MRS ROBINA BRISTOW, GUISBOROUGH BORN in 1917, Robina started attending the Army in Stockton as a teenager. After leaving school she trained as a nanny in Harrogate, where she met her husband Sydney through the torchbearers. They married in 1943, and had three sons – Ian, Malcolm and Mark. A family move to Gillingham in 1967 brought further corps involvement. Robina supported Sydney’s commitments and her baking was much appreciated at coffee mornings and sales of work. Sydney died 25 years ago after retiring to Guisborough. Robina was a ‘second mum’ to many and an

adopted aunt to dozens of children. Her life revolved around her home, family and great love for children. Her family give thanks for her influence on their lives. – S. S.

BAND RESERVIST HAROLD FISHER, SHEFFIELD CITADEL HAROLD was born in 1941 to Salvationist parents at Chesterfield, where he became a senior soldier and bandmaster. Harold married Barbara in 1962. They were parents to Helen and Beverley and grandparents to Gemma, Jack and Jorge. At Sheffield Citadel, Harold proved himself a conscientious and reliable bandsman, songster sergeant, songster secretary and publications sergeant and went out of his way to ensure everyone was made welcome. All his working life was spent with Chesterfield Borough Council. While housing officer for Staveley and District, Harold was instrumental in providing accommodation for the Army to recommence its witness in Staveley. Harold’s constant faith and witness continued through a long and debilitating

illness. He is remembered as a true Christian gentleman. – L. T.

MRS AMANDA WOODRUFF, PLYMOUTH EXETER HALL WHITLEIGH AMANDA was born in Salford in 1974 to Salvationist parents. The family later settled in Plymouth, attending Exeter Hall, where Amanda took an active part in corps life. She played trombone in the band and loved to sing. For a time she also served as singing company leader at Devonport Morice Town. She married Stewart in 1995 and had two lovely children, Charlotte and Dominic. Amanda’s promotion to Glory has left everyone shocked and saddened at her loss. A full hall of family, friends and colleagues at her service of thanksgiving showed how much she was loved. They find comfort in one of her favourite songs: ‘He makes all things beautiful, in his time.’ – K. S. Please note that soldiers’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 120 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes.

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