Salvationist 3 nov 2012 by The Salvation Army UK and Ireland

SALVATIONIST

Essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army // www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 3 November 2012 // No. 1371 // Price 60p

Pages 12 and 13

CONTENTS 3.

FROM THE EDITOR

4. PAPERS Picture caption competition results and this week’s quotes from the papers

12. & 13.

5.  10. NEWS East Midlands // Newcastle City Temple // Birmingham // Rutherglen // Bromsgrove // Halifax // Worcester // Newton Abbot // Bishop’s Stortford // Plymouth Congress Hall // Skegness // Morecambe // Lockerbie // Dartford // Leytonstone // Merthyr Tydfil // Sherburn Hill // SAHA // IHQ // Southend Southchurch // Romford // Harrow // Stockton // Luton // Sudbury // Worthing // Sale // Norwich Citadel // North Scotland // Southampton Shirley // Tiverton // Wickford 11. THE YEAR OF JUBILEE Social Justice 12. & 13. FEATURE Campaigning for Christ – serving suffering humanity 14. PERSECUTED CHURCH Proclaim freedom! 15. We need babies!

BIBLE STUDY

16. In pursuit of truth

FEATURE

16.

FEATURE

16.

The big sneeze 17.

LETTERS

18. & 19. ANNOUNCEMENTS Army people, engagements and tributes 20.

NEW COMMITMENTS

21.  23. 24.

10.

ADVERTS THROUGH THE WEEK WITH SALVATIONIST

Salvationist 3 November 2012

FROM THE EDITOR

O THOU WHO CHANGEST NOT, ABIDE WITH ME! THE clergyman Henry Francis Lyte – whose church in Brixham I visited once – wrote: ‘Change and decay in all around I see’ (SASB 670). Notwithstanding the fact that his words would make a suitable motto for a dentist’s waiting room, it leads me to point out something you will already have noticed – the format of Salvationist has changed. I am confident, though, it has not begun to decay! I pay tribute to the Salvationist team who have worked hard to piece together this new look. My colleagues have managed the demands of the Editor with skill and grace. I am most grateful. Change for the sake of change is pretty useless. These changes, though, are largely the result of reader feedback and suggestion. Some ideas are mine, some are ours (the team’s), but I like to think this format represents a sympathetic consideration of reader opinion. Doubtless, we shan’t please everyone – not even Jesus managed that, and he was perfect – but we can at least say we have tried to play our part in the evolution of Salvationist as a reader-friendly paper. My favourite element of the new layout is the back page, now offering a brief devotional thought for each day of the week – selected by Commissioners Harry Read and Keith Banks and Major Philippa Smale – and a prayer for a territory or command. I have long been concerned, you see, that Salvationist, once the Sunday roast has been enjoyed and the dishes washed, is read, then discarded.

However, there are some officers who, for example, use our weekly Bible study as a corps resource, but it grieves me to think this publication is not better utilised – hence the hope that even just a little verse to ponder might bless you as your week unfolds. Praying around the Army world, too, can only be a good thing. Change is inevitable. Urban foxes, so I am told, adapt superbly to changing environments and therefore manage to live successfully alongside humans. Pandas, on the other hand, tend to insist on the same old diet of bamboo, week in and week out – anything else and they struggle. Unsurprisingly, urban foxes thrive while the panda population declines. And, yes – even my picture has changed! Inspired by the story of Curtis King who, in November 1862 joined the Greybeards Regiment (for men over 45 years old) and, although unable to read or write, had such retentive powers that he claimed the ability to repeat every word of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, with the help of a daughter who read to him from the Scriptures. I am now one of those referred to in Psalm 148, The Message: ‘Praise God… greybeards.’ MAJOR STEPHEN POXON, EDITOR

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I HOPE AND PRAY THAT… SOME WILL BE PROMPTED TO CONTRIBUTE IN WRITTEN FORM TO MODERN SALVATIONIST LITERATURE IN AN AGE THAT NEEDS… THE OLD, ETERNAL TRUTHS EXPRESSED IN LANGUAGE FOR THE 21ST CENTURY.

SALVATIONIST

DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza – (tel) 020 7367 4896

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN (tel) 0845 634 0101 (tel) 020 7367 4500 (fax) 020 7367 4691 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jonathan Carmichael – (tel) 020 7367 4883

EDITOR Major Stephen Poxon – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891 ASSISTANT EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley – (tel) 020 7367 4892 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Laura Barker – (tel) 020 7367 4893 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Kersten Rieder – (tel) 020 7367 4894 DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter – (tel) 020 7367 4895

ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino – (tel) 020 7367 4881 ADVERTISING (tel) 020 7367 4883 (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

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(General Shaw Clifton)

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.

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Linda Bond TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner André Cox EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Leanne Ruthven

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. © Linda Bond, General of The Salvation Army, 2012.

Salvationist 3 November 2012

PAPERS PICTURE CAPTION COMPETITION RESULTS

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS WHAT DID HE SAY? He did not say: you will not be troubled, you will not be belaboured, you will not be disquieted; but he said: you will not be overcome. Julian of Norwich, quoted in The Tablet

QUEEN MOTHER’S REGRET OVER CANNIBAL CONVERTS On 13 October Salvationist asked readers for captions for this picture which shows Patch the Dog meeting territorial leaders Commissioners André and Silvia Cox when he was on a walkabout at New Horizons. Here is a selection of the best suggestions:

Territorial leaders of The Salvation Army meet the terriertorial leader of The Alsatian Army. At the next meeting can you have my favourite song – ‘Dare To Be A Spaniel’? Both submitted by Stephen Crowhurst, Cradley Heath.

Oh commissioner, it would appear that somewhere in Butlins I’ve misplaced an ear! Diana Bennetts, Tiverton.

Barking Corps was surprised to f ind me in the Big Collection! Gordon Archer, Belfast.

Now that is what I call paws for thought. Melvyn Owen, Worcester.

The Queen Mother disapproved of cannibals in Polynesia becoming Catholics, a series of newly released private letters suggest… Among the letters was one written to Queen Mary… It says: ‘My darling Mama… The natives are very diseased and are rapidly dying out. Instead of being strong, healthy cannibals with strange religions and no clothes, they are now half-hearted Roman Catholics, with European clothes. It seems all wrong but that is what happens.’ The Catholic Herald

THE BLIND BEGGAR When Founder of The Salvation Army William Booth preached his first ever public sermon outside the Blind Beggar in 1865, he pressed his face to the pub’s window and declared: ‘There is a heaven in East London for everyone!’ Good news for local villain George Cornell, then, who was at the bar on 9 March 1966 when Ronnie Kray walked in and shot him dead. Time Out

MYSTERY OF KING ALFRED GRAVE TO BE SETTLED A church has applied to dig up a grave to determine if the remains are those of King Alfred the Great. The resting place of the monarch… has long been a matter of confusion… The Rev Cliff Bannister [of St Bartholomew’s Church, Winchester] hopes to solve the mystery by exhuming the bones. The Daily Telegraph 4

Salvationist 3 November 2012

NEWS FEATURE General leads mighty meetings EAST MIDLANDS ‘ARISE A Mighty Army!’ – the theme for General Linda Bond’s visit to the division – was powerfully exemplified in the witness and worship of 1,500-plus Salvationists and friends who gathered at three locations over the weekend. But stronger than anything else was their commitment to rise up and stand up for Christ. The event began in Sneinton, Nottingham, on Saturday morning, when the Lord Mayor of Nottingham (Councillor Leon Unczur) greeted the General. Later, numerous Salvationists witnessed to their faith in the city’s market square. Lincoln Band and Salvationists from Nottingham Arnold shared the gospel with passers-by, information stalls attracted interest and the divisional emergency vehicle served free refreshments. For some 900 people, however, it was the opportunity to hear the General that prompted them to journey from all corners of the division and beyond to attend the Saturday night celebration event in Nottingham’s Albert Hall. General Bond took the salute during the entry of the divisional and corps flags, with Kettering Band playing the aptly chosen march ‘Emblem Of The Army’. Other music contributions from Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls Songsters and a festival chorus, along with a time of praise and prayer led by members of the division’s summer school, were warmly received. A song commissioned for the weekend was introduced to the congregation. The General pointed out that ‘One Mission, One Message’ (Stephen Pearson and Richard Phillips) brings the number of songs written on this theme to four. After some of the division’s applicants for officership had given a Scripture presentation, the General called on the Army to release God’s power by being an Army on its knees in prayer and an Army of faith – marching forward with belief and confidence. A recurring theme throughout the evening was the question: ‘How are you standing up for

(Above) General Linda Bond preaches at Corby Business Academy during Sunday evening worship; (below) The General and Divisional Envoy Ruth Sheppard meet members of the public in Nottingham’s Old Market Square; (bottom) Young people of the division question the General

Jesus?’ Several Salvationists, young and old, answered this in video-recorded testimonies. Divisional Commander Lieut-Colonel Mike Caffull interviewed Majors Mike and Margaret Bowers about their appointment in continuing to establish an expression of ministry in Market Harborough. He then challenged the congregation to make a stand for Jesus in the places they find themselves. That they might be Holy Spirit-empowered was the united prayer as the day ended with the singing of ‘Send The Fire’. The powerful words of the chorus ‘Spirit Of The Living God’ were used to great spiritual effect during the Sunday morning meeting held at the Lincolnshire Events Centre. During her Bible message, the General reiterated her heartfelt prayer that the breath of God would blow over the Army in a way not seen in her lifetime. Many of her listeners made public their desire to claim a fresh infilling of God’s Spirit. Earlier, during a time set aside for young people, Divisional Children’s Officer Adrian

Kemp attempted to make a sandwich for the General – using a hammer, saw and electric drill! It illustrated how not only are the right tools needed for any job but also that good use should be made of the talents God has given people. Supporting music was provided by Gainsborough Band and Derby Central Singing Company, while Boston Worship Dance Group featured during a period of prayer. A significant moment for Market Rasen comrades came when the General presented them with their corps flag. After many years as an outreach centre Market Rasen has been given corps status. Wellingborough Songsters opened the evening meeting at Corby Business Academy with ‘God Of My Praise’. Scripture quotations and praise choruses featured in a worship segment led by Kettering youth. Later, children who had met the previous night in their own Kidzone for worship, games and Bible discovery, set hands clapping, feet dancing and voices singing praise to God when they and the congregation sang ‘He Is The One’. During Leicester South Band’s presentation of ‘Servants Of God’, on-screen images depicted the God-honouring ministry being carried out at corps in the southern part of the division. They served to echo the General’s firmly held belief that she shared with the congregation: ‘God still has a purpose for The Salvation Army around the world. He wants to use the Army – and every Salvationist in it – in even greater ways!’ After the General’s powerful message there was a ready response to her invitation to the place of prayer. A father led his young son forward; married couples knelt together; small clusters prayed as families or for their corps. Such closing scenes of the weekend were a fitting endorsement of the General’s conviction that while this God-raised Army remains a God-glorifying Army, it will be a mighty Army. – N. C./T. H. Salvationist 3 November 2012

NEWS Ladies fellowship attends civic reception

Harvest musical contributions

NEWCASTLE CITY TEMPLE

HARVEST celebrations commenced with a supper and programme. Captain Lucy Mann (Greenock) sang ‘The Rose’ and ‘Someone Cares’ and brought much blessing. Christopher Keane (cornet) played ‘The Wonder Of His Grace’ and ‘Life’s Pageant’. The female voices of the singing group sang ‘Hallelujah To The Lamb’. On Sunday guest leader Major Kingsley Layton spoke on The Rich Fool. The band and singing group led the afternoon praise meeting with participation by guest soloists. Evan Orr (soprano cornet) played ‘He Leadeth Me’ and Ian Jamieson (euphonium) contributed ‘The Song Of The Brother’. All donated food items will be used to create food parcels. – D. M.

FOR the second time in seven years, the ladies fellowship attended a civic reception with the Lord Mayor of Newcastle upon Tyne (Councillor Jackie Slesenger) who acknowledged the work of the Army in the city. A conducted tour of the Mansion House was followed by a buffet, during which fellowship leader Pat Ions thanked the Lord Mayor and her husband, Councillor David Slesenger, for their work with disadvantaged communities. Fellowship members were supported by Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries Major Katrina Thomas and corps officer Major Antony Mugford, who offered prayer. – B. I.

RUTHERGLEN

Booth House wins five-a-side competition BIRMINGHAM A TEAM from Booth House Lifehouse, London, won the five-a-side Salvation Army 2012 homeless football tournament. All participants in the 26 teams were from Lifehouses and supported housing units run by the Salvation Army Housing Association. Former England international and West Bromwich Albion striker Cyrille Regis presented the winners with their trophy. Pret A Manger supported the event by providing lunch for the competitors. – A. R.

HALIFAX: A varied programme at the monthly ladies fellowship meeting has led to increased attendances. At a recent meeting Barbara Green spoke about her nursing experiences. – L. H.

Children at Worcester are joined by Captains Martyn and Nicola Watson (DHQ) for their annual prizegiving

Food for thought NEWTON ABBOT

Carol and Neal Creswell stand beside the Harvest display they created at Bishop’s Stortford; corps folk celebrated Bromsgrove Harvest Supper attracts a

the Harvest weekend with a fish and chip

number of people, some visiting the hall

supper, talent night and a food collection

for the first time

for Harlow food bank

Salvationist 3 November 2012

THE corps opened its doors and welcomed the community for a Harvest Festival. More than 100 people attended, including children from weekday activities such as rainbows, cubs, brownies and guides. The meeting gave food for thought as the congregation considered food as a precious resource. The abundance of food donated will be shared with those who need it most. The meeting drew to a close with a rousing rendition of ‘We Plough The Fields, And Scatter’. – T. C.

NEWS

Day of mission with a difference IHQ MORE than 400 people heard architects’ talks and took part in guided tours of International Headquarters as part of Open House London 2012. Films of the Army’s work were shown before each tour. Staff and officers interacted with visitors in the café and on the tours, with many questions being asked and answered. Chief of the Staff Commissioner Barry Swanson (above) spoke to all tour groups in his office. Major Beverly Ivany – Editor of Words Of Life – signed books and visitors were offered free copies of IHQ-produced magazines and books. The Aim High Olympic and Paralympic-themed exhibition adjacent to Café 101 was a popular focal point for many people. Architects from Sheppard Robson explained the process behind the design and construction of the building and how the remains of an ancient Roman port were uncovered during construction. The tours included visits to the General’s office, the chapel, the round table boardroom and the rooms under the walkway between St Paul’s Cathedral and the Millennium Bridge. Outside the building, thousands of people stopped to watch and listen to Croydon YP Band and Singing Company.

IHQ Chaplain Colonel Annette Gower, who organised the event, described it as a day of mission with a difference. – L. R.

IHQ: In April 2013, The Salvation Army will hold an international conference on The Training Of Cadets. Among the 130 delegates will be the training principals and senior executive officers from all territories and commands that have a training college; others with responsibility for cadet training and five soldiers who will represent the wider membership of the Army will also attend. The purpose of this event will be to keep training programmes relevant to changing needs while facing up to the challenges of sharing the gospel and the demands of spiritual leadership for the present day. – A. R.

Friendship club concert raises £2,000 ROMFORD A CAPACITY audience at the Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, enjoyed the annual variety concert organised by the Friendship club. Lieut-Colonel David Phillips (inset) compèred the event in a jovial manner, contributing to an overwhelming sense of fun but nevertheless underpinned with a thoughtful presentation of the gospel. The event included contributions from London NorthEast Fellowship Band, guest vocalists and entertainers William Byrne and Joni Talks and Daniel Roberts on piano. During the afternoon, representatives from

Hope4Havering, Sergeant Darren Hepple, and Craiova Corps, Romania, each received a cheque for £1,000. Corps officer Major David Evans spoke of the work done among orphans in Romania and how the corps, along with Southend Citadel, is supporting this endeavour. Majors David and Sarah Evans are pictured with community manager Trevor Fisher and representatives from the Metropolitan Police. – D. E.

Open Talent is already changing lives SAHA CHAIRMAN Commissioner John Matear opened the Salvation Army Housing Association annual meeting in prayer. Territorial Commander Commissioner André Cox followed this by discussing the partnership between The Salvation Army and SAHA, particularly highlighting a new initiative, Open Talent. He said: ‘The riots of August 2011 are symptomatic of a society where young people have a sense of entitlement and greed. And yet, every single individual has an ability, a talent, a contribution they can make to society.’ He continued: ‘SAHA has a real focus on helping and supporting young people, focusing on their potential and on what they can contribute to society. This is the heart of the Open Talent model which is being used in SAHA’s foyers. Talentspotting is something we can all do, seeing others as God sees them.’ Chief Executive Nigel Parrington discussed how residents are shaping services and revealed that a recent resident survey showed high levels of satisfaction in all areas of SAHA’s work. Continuing on a similar theme to the TC, Nigel addressed how SAHA had been selected by The Foyer Federation to pilot Open Talent in its foyers. Three residents ended the meeting by presenting their life stories and discussed how foyer initiatives, such as Open Talent, had changed their lives. – A. R. SOUTHEND SOUTHCHURCH: Corps folk were greatly encouraged by the ministry of Hadleigh Temple Singing Company. The children’s repertoire included ‘Colours Of His Love’ and ‘Harvest Samba’. Bible readings, testimonies and various prayers enriched the meeting. – Y. A.

Salvationist 3 November 2012

NEWS God’s provision HARROW HARVEST celebrations led by Lieut-Colonels David and Jean Burrows focused on thankfulness for the harvest of food and praise and joy for a fruitful harvest of people for the Kingdom and God’s provision of labourers. Non-perishable provisions helped to restock the corps food store for people in need in the community. The children, flanked by corps officer Captain Pauline Milner and Lieut-Colonels David and Jean Burrows, are pictured displaying their Harvest artwork.– P. M.

Dazzling flower festival STOCKTON

High Sheriff tells his story LUTON THE High Sheriff of Bedfordshire ( Jack Sapsworth), pictured with his wife Lyn, spoke about his life story during the Sunday morning meeting and how after being homeless as a teenager he went on to start his own business and became a prominent figure in the community through charity fundraising. He testified to his faith in God and the power of prayer. – P. P. Sudbury Day Care Centre volunteers Joan Martin and Rita White, supported by Major Jean Crozier (left) and Kathryn Pettitt, display certificates of appreciation in recognition of ten years’ service 8

Salvationist 3 November 2012

DIVISIONAL leaders Majors Darrell and Katrina Thomas opened the Flower Festival. Following a prayer by Major Katrina Thomas, the Divisional Commander declared the festival open. Organiser Freda Cooke and her helpers produced a dazzling array of floral displays around the theme, Harvest Bounty. A Saturday supper and a programme presented by five young corps folk raised almost £3,000 for the corps community fund and the Watershed project. – B. C.

NEWS Celebration of ministry

Home league celebration SKEGNESS

PLYMOUTH CONGRESS HALL

MAJOR Christine Comely (THQ) led home league weekend one year after its reinstatement. Members who do not normally attend Sunday meetings took part through singing and timbrel routines. Retired Divisional Envoy Joe Wilkinson sang a touching solo. The meeting was followed by a faith meal. – D. G.

THE corps celebrated 134 years of Christian ministry to homeless and vulnerable people of the city. A weekend of special events included a corps history display and an anniversary dinner on Saturday evening attended by 85 people. Guest leader Major Estelle Blake (Faith House, London) brought encouragement to the corps when she spoke about her work. Number one on the roll, Winnie Claseing is pictured cutting a cake with Shania Oliver and Major Blake. – D. P.

MERTHYR TYDFIL: Children’s and Youth Outreach Worker Craig Oliver (Doncaster) led Children’s Praise weekend – the first at the corps for a number of years. On Friday more than 45 children attended the kids club and on Saturday the Jam club joined the group for more fun and games followed by a tea party. Children and parents filled the hall on Sunday morning and some Jam club members took part in a meeting for the first time. – L. B. For the third year running, Chris Carmen at Sherburn Hill receives trophies for Durham County Council’s garden and environment competition; his entries included

At Leytonstone, Songster Sergeant Ivy Warbey and Bandmaster/Deputy

gardens at the hall and

Songster Leader Alf Warbey, supported

village junior school

Six corps members at Lockerbie

by Lieutenants Dáfne de Castro e Lemos

participate in a sponsored zip-wire

and Josh Selfe, display certificates of

challenge to raise funds for the corps and

service in recognition of their retirement

the Big Collection

after many years’ faithful service

Back to church at Harvest DARTFORD

Margaret Watkins, Colin Watkins, Dawn Members of Dartford Men’s Fellowship

Naylor, Morecambe corps officer Captain

participate in a 20km sponsored walk

Mark Spencer, Major Jean Lacey and

along Thanet Viking Coastal Trail; the

George Home complete a sponsored walk

£600 raised was shared between the

across Morecambe Bay, raising £1,000 for

corps and the Living Water project

the Big Collection

FOUR people were welcomed at the corps on Back to Church Sunday, which coincided with Harvest celebrations including a fellowship meal. Corps officer Lieutenant Zoe Smith asked the young people to consider food supply chains. Harvest donations were placed in a borrowed shopping trolley to which prayers of thanksgiving were attached. – C. M. Salvationist 3 November 2012

NEWS Faith-sharing bike ride WORTHING EIGHT corps folk took part in a London High Viz Night Cycle. They cycled at night through London streets, riding past Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square and St Paul’s. IHQ marked the halfway point and the riders stopped for a quick picture, before continuing on their journey along the South Bank, Downing Street and through Whitehall. The team received support on social networking sites. The ride was part of a corps strategy to reach the unchurched through organising events that lead to faith-sharing opportunities. – D. H.

War Cry Editor signs books

Feel-good cake highlights Fairtrade ingredients

TIVERTON

THQ

MAJOR Nigel Bovey (THQ) was special guest for an evening meeting, where he spoke on the subject of the mercy seat. Later, the corps enjoyed the opportunity to share in fellowship and to purchase signed copies of a selection of the major’s books. – D. B.

THE Salvation Army International Development (UK) team got involved in the Big Fair Bake by producing a special Farm cake using Fairtrade sugar. The campaign is organised by Fairtrade Foundation to encourage budding bakers to share their culinary creations to highlight the importance of using Fairtrade products, such as cocoa and sugar, to support farmers. SAID (UK) supports farmers as part of the Farm programme. Find out more at www .salvationarmy.org.uk/farm or contact SAID (UK) on 020 7367 4777 or id@salvationarmy.org.uk for more information. – C. J.

Nine people from Wickford take part in a 20-mile sponsored walk

SOUTHAMPTON SHIRLEY: Former corps officers Majors Iris and Peter Leech led Harvest Sunday meetings. This year’s Harvest display included items added to welcome packs for victims who are helped by the Army’s Anti-Trafficking Response Team. – J. W.

Festival supports The Clarence Adoo Trust STOCKTON A MUSIC programme featuring Enfield Band, compèred by Clarence Adoo, was much appreciated by the corps. The band played ‘Dance Before The Lord’ and ‘Overture To The Magic Flute’, interspersed with trumpet solos from former bandsman Richard Martin (principal trumpet with the Northern Sinfonia). His items included ‘Someone Cares’ and ‘Whirlwind’. At the conclusion of the evening Enfield’s Bandmaster Jonathan Corry presented a cheque for £1,087 to The Clarence Adoo Trust. – B. C. SALE: Lieutenant Nicola Brooksbank (Herne Bay) returned to her home corps to conduct Harvest celebrations. The weekend included a pie supper and a ceilidh. On Sunday, the children brought in baskets of fruit and vegetables to enhance the display, and the lieutenant showed a video presentation describing what it means to be a junior soldier. – E. Y. 10

Salvationist 3 November 2012

raising £1,500 in aid of the Army’s work in Romania and anti-human Trafficking

Salvationists from across North Scotland Division gather for a music ministries brass day at Inverness, led by Bandmaster Stuart Hall (Maidenhead)

NORWICH CITADEL: The band presented an extensive programme at All Saints, Carleton Rode, as part of Harvest celebrations, featuring ‘Fill The World With Glory’, ‘New Frontier’ and ‘Ein Feste Burg’. David Winch (tenor horn) and Daniel Beattie (euphonium) played solo items. – B. C.

THE YEAR OF JUBILEE

Social justice by Territorial President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Silvia Cox

HE year of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, which centred on the extended public holiday weekend in June, is almost at an end. With all the positive effects of the Olympics and the Paralympics, the special focus on the jubilee may have lost some of its momentum. However, what a year it has turned out to be! Jubilee is a strong biblical theme and, as such, has great importance not only for Christians but also for society at large. It has nothing to do with royalty, but is very relevant to today’s world as it is all about God’s provision and his desire for equality and social justice. In Leviticus 25:10 we read: ‘Consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a jubilee for you; each of you is to return to your family property and to your own clan’ (all quotations from New International Version). During the year of jubilee the Israelites who had sold themselves into slavery were to be set free. All debts were to be released. The land was to lie fallow and be returned to its original owner. This practice ensured that no Israelite could ever be in permanent slavery, nor could any Israelite permanently lose their inheritance. The jubilee was a year of hope – an opportunity to put things right. It provided the chance to bring to an end many injustices. It was the possibility of a new beginning. Interestingly, when Jesus came, he also proclaimed liberty to the captives! He proclaimed a year of jubilee! ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight to the blind, to set the oppressed free, to

proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.’ Then Jesus added: ‘Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing’ (Luke 4:18, 19 and 21). We cannot close our eyes to the fact that injustice and inequality are main themes in the Bible. We cannot deny that we are confronted with this very issue every day as we listen to the news or read the newspapers. Inequality is an issue, not only in the UK, but also around the world. A report to the Methodist Conference of June 2011 – Of Equal Value: Poverty And Inequality In The UK – informs us that ‘22 per cent of the UK population live in poverty; 32 per cent of children in the UK live in poverty’. What shocking contrasts we encounter in today’s world with its prevailing spirit of greed and sense of entitlement! The attitude of a few has

much injustice. In God’s eyes there is no room for discrimination of race, gender or religion. Equality lies at the heart of our God. We serve a God who cares for the poor. In the same way our lives should demonstrate our love for those who are in need. We must go into the world of the hurting, broken, lonely, dispossessed and lost, reaching them in love by all means with the transforming message of Jesus, bringing freedom, hope and life. The prophet Micah reminds us: ‘And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and love mercy and walk humbly with your God’ (Micah 6:8).

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IN GOD’S EYES THERE IS NO ROOM FOR DISCRIMINATION OF RACE, GENDER OR RELIGION. EQUALITY LIES AT THE HEART OF OUR GOD

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had far-reaching consequences on millions of others who find themselves financially insecure while some of the richest people in the world continue to amass even larger fortunes! As Christians, what can we do? We cannot be indifferent when we see so

COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX Salvationist 3 November 2012

FEATURE

Campaigning for Christ – serving suffering humanity Salvationist highlights The Salvation Army’s ongoing ministry to those on the margins of society

ENERAL Albert Orsborn wrote in song number 173 in our songbook: ‘Yet once again, by God’s abundant mercy, we join our song of thankfulness and praise.’ We might easily apply those words to the Territorial Campaign Week – 5 to 11 November – as The Salvation Army yet once again thanks God for the privilege of reaching out to marginalised, homeless and vulnerable people, offering them warmth, shelter, food, safety and unconditional

love in the name of Christ – who himself had nowhere to lay his head. Territorial Campaign Week is, though, by no means simply a question of doing the same old things year after year. Rather, it is an annual effort – allied to every other endeavour carried out on a daily basis – to present the love of God to those who carry the physical, emotional and spiritual scars of rejection, distress and hopelessness. COMMISSIONED TO CARE Salvation Army officers, when they are commissioned, recite the following covenant: ‘Called by God to proclaim the gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ as an officer of The Salvation Army I bind myself to him in this solemn covenant O To love and serve him supremely all my days, O To live to win souls and make their salvation the first purpose of my life, O To care for the poor, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, love the unloveable, and befriend those who have no friends, O To maintain the doctrines and principles of The Salvation Army, and, by God’s grace, to prove myself a worthy officer.’ These words, though, are not the exclusive preserve of officers! The call to reach out to a hurting world applies to every follower of Christ. To that end, Salvation Army

Salvationist 3 November 2012

programmes across the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland will engage in a concerted attempt – in word, thought and deed – to offer the claims of Jesus Christ to those who often feel unworthy of his love and believe they are of no interest to him.

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PRESENT THE LOVE OF GOD TO THOSE WHO CARRY THE PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL SCARS OF REJECTION, DISTRESS AND HOPELESSNESS

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Another poet General, John Gowans, put it this way, in song number 238: ‘Do you sometimes feel that no one truly knows you, And that no one understands or really cares? Through his people, God himself is close beside you, And through them he plans to answer all your prayers.

Someone cares, someone cares, Someone knows your deepest need, your burden shares; Someone cares, someone cares, God himself will hear the whisper of your prayers.’ FITNESS TEST Following in the example of the Founder, the great champion of the poor and downtrodden, The Salvation Army is launching Territorial Campaign Week 2012 with the theme Fit4Life. Emphasising the fact that no one is outside God’s care and that no life is beyond hope, the Fit4Life material produced at THQ includes a wealth of useful resources for meetings, prayer groups and discussion sessions, all based around the theme of the worth and potential of each individual. In addition, Fit4Life booklets have been prepared for free distribution to Lifehouse residents. These booklets outline a number of situations that daily life presents, offering gentle, practical advice on meeting challenges and overcoming obstacles. Full of helpful illustrations, the booklets also include space for personal notes so that they can be used as a kind of private journal. This gives the opportunity for Lifehouse residents to ‘confide’ thoughts to the journal they might otherwise be reluctant to admit.

A clear spiritual element runs through the resource, but the emphasis remains upon the individual making their own way to faith in their own time. The love of God in Christ is referred to and Bible verses are included, but the style is persuasive rather than pushy. While much of the Fit4Life material is geared towards Lifehouses, there is no doubt at all that it can be adapted and used in any Army setting where vulnerable people are in need of a helping hand – from regular meetings to

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THE EMPHASIS REMAINS UPON THE INDIVIDUAL MAKING THEIR OWN WAY TO FAITH IN THEIR OWN TIME

long-term support. Individuals who make their way to an Army hall in need of a food parcel or a listening ear find a sympathetic response. Those whose lives are in a mess are told – and shown – that someone does indeed care. PRAYER, PLEASE Salvationists are warmly encouraged to pray for the success of Campaign Week. Prayers are invited for the Evangelism Department at THQ and for the Mission Development Unit. Prayers for everyone who will come into contact with the range of Fit4Life materials are g – those who will use them and sought share them in ministry and those who will receive them.

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residential situations or even on the high street, perhaps, as part of literature evangelism. People come to The Salvation Army from all walks of life and with all kinds of needs. Long-term residents benefit from Salvationist 3 November 2012

PERSECUTED CHURCH

PROCLAIM FREEDOM! To mark Suffering Church Sunday on 4 November, Major Stephen Poxon highlights areas of concern

Picture courtesy releaseinternational.org

CHRISTIANS are a persecuted group! Fact. Around the world, Christians routinely suffer discrimination, hostility and violence. Many suffer in silence at the hands of oppressive regimes. Some are beaten, raped and imprisoned – even murdered. Some governments turn a blind eye to religious liberty, despite including it in their official legislation, leaving Christians as the most neglected group in Western governments’ foreign policy. The Christian relief agency Barnabas Fund estimates that approximately 200 million Christians live under the shadow of persecution.

In April, in Azerbaijan, a Protestant church was issued with a closure order, making all its activities illegal. Yemeni believers are at risk of severe reprisals for practising their faith. Apostasy is legally punishable by death. In Sudan, in June, the Episcopal parish church of St John, Khartoum, was bulldozed without warning by the local authority with police support. Set against this backdrop, organisations such as Barnabas Fund and Release International exercise a wonderful ministry, serving the suffering church by doing everything possible to encourage prayer, protest and partnerships. Both organisations produce regular magazines highlighting the plight of Christians and their families who suffer for Christ. Not only do Barnabas Fund and Release International draw attention to atrocities taking place, they list action points, enabling Christians in countries where severe persecution does not exist to support their brothers and sisters. These include… O prayer resources, including prayer-partnering options, prayer booklets, prayer maps and guidelines for prayer group leaders O fundraising suggestions, including organised sponsored events and Harvest offering ideas O freedom packs offering templates for meetings, Bible studies and Sunday schools, including multimedia materials O wristbands, bookmarks and lapel pins O books and DVDs sharing stories and testimonies O the provision of guest speakers for meetings O email alerts O template letters of protest to embassies and consulates. One consequence of victimisation and intimidation can be the loss of income. Sometimes, Christians are blacklisted at job interviews or not even considered for interview. For Christian parents with children to support, this is often devastating. To overcome such disadvantages, practical help is available. Release International, for example, is running the buffalo ministry. In India, a pastor was attacked by Hindu fundamentalists and was in hospital for three weeks. Before the attack he had run a smallholding to support his ministry. His injuries led to several months of recuperation, threatening his livelihood. He received a micro-loan; he bought a buffalo and began selling its milk to the local dairy. This enabled him to provide for his family and continue his gospel ministry. O

Release is giving poor Christian women confidence and opportunities by supporting two sewing centres, like this one in Lahore, which provide training and skills

The Iranian government, for example, is particularly hostile to Christianity. In February, a sweep of arrests across Iran resulted in Christians being imprisoned for offences including holding house church meetings, evangelising Muslims, alleged actions against national security – or simply for being Christian. Egyptian Christians were victimised and terrorised to prevent them voting against the Muslim Brotherhood in the recent presidential run-off. In India, the names of 20,000 Christians were deleted from the electoral roll. In Turkey, five men were arrested after the murder of three Christians in 2007. Despite 38 hearings, there has been no verdict against them. 14

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Corps or individuals wishing to become involved in ministry to the persecuted should contact Barnabas Fund at 9 Priory Row, Coventry CV1 5EX (phone 024 7623 1923, email info@barnabasfund.org) or Release International, PO Box 54, Orpington BR5 9RT (phone 01689 823491, email info@releaseinternational.org)

MAJOR STEPHEN POXON

BIBLE STUDY

We need babies! The second of a three-part series by Major Andrew Vertigan STUDY PASSAGE: EPHESIANS 4:10–13

AS the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland stopped planting new churches? Are we too focused on looking after the corps we already have? Maybe we are caring for ‘adults’ at the expense of ‘babies’! Jesus died for the world – not only the world as it was 2,000 years ago but also for today’s world. The role of the Church is to reach out to those not yet convinced that Jesus loves them, through loving actions of grace and mercy. I believe the role of The Salvation Army is to raise up disciples and leaders who go on to instruct others in the way. One of the most effective ways of doing this is through the planting of new churches. I do, however, want to voice a slight concern. We might need to consider the fact that the model we have previously used may no longer be the most effective vehicle for God to move in power and love. The Army as many of us know it may possibly have become too introvert in parts, inadvertently building a survival mentality. It is for mission to the world that the Holy Spirit has given each of us gifts to use for building up the Church. KEY QUESTIONS O Do we need a more diverse demonstration of church to reach into every culture? O Do we need to allow needs to determine the local model of this? O Should one Army corps look exactly the same as another? I believe we need to rediscover what our founding missioners did. They arrived, looked, listened to the community and then responded with the gospel. Romans 12:1 and 2 and

Matthew 11:20–30 in The Message are worth considering. I am not convinced that one model fits all. During a recent visit home I bumped into my old foreman, Arthur, who taught me bricklaying. He was very good and wanted me to be good too. While I can turn my hand to some building skills, I am best at bricklaying – and I can build with lots of different materials to fit into many different environments. Under Arthur’s guidance, it was never assumed we would always build with

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I BELIEVE THE ROLE OF THE SALVATION ARMY IS TO RAISE UP DISCIPLES AND LEADERS WHO GO ON TO INSTRUCT OTHERS IN THE WAY

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only one type of brick. The building material had to fit into the setting. This compares well with the subject of church planting. The Acts of the Apostles shows many different expressions of God’s people gathering together. When we look at our Movement, we may want to ask ourselves if we have been broad enough in our thinking. Have we simply expected people to come along to our meetings and find faith? While I recognise this certainly can happen, it seems that most people have little or no desire to walk in!

As a church leader, I believe my role is to equip believers for God’s work. Yet, we are struggling to find enough leaders, pastors and prophets nowadays. Why are we closing corps and seeing numbers dwindle? Is it possible that the replanting or planting of new ministries and expressions of Christian faith would stem the decline? Is it possible that if we were once more to seek out new opportunities, new growth of leadership might emerge? Statistical data of the past 20 years suggests this is what happens when an organisation or denomination starts planting. Growth is experienced at every level. Church growth commentator Peter Wagner stated that ‘it’s easier to give birth than to resurrect the dead’. I believe we need more ‘babies’ – new plants – and we need to give opportunities to those who want to do new things. TO CONSIDER we called to be a reproductive movement? O Are we called to do anything that some might be saved? O Are you being called by God the Holy Spirit to start new works for him? O Could you work with other like-minded people to grow a new church plant? O Are

MAJOR VERTIGAN IS CORPS OFFICER, WETHERBY, WITH RESPONSIBILITY FOR PLANTING AND DEVELOPMENT IN NORTH YORKSHIRE AND MISSION PARTNER PLANTING, THQ Salvationist 3 November 2012

FEATURES

IN PURSUIT OF TRUTH The Rev Graham Hellier presents the first in a new occasional series exploring different observations of biblical accounts THE GARDEN OF EDEN (GENESIS 1 AND 2) ALTHOUGH we cannot enter fully into the minds of storytellers, they clearly signal that the language is symbolic – parables cast in rich imagery. Adam does more than typify us – he is humanity as the name indicates. The great rivers show that Eden is the known world. We are not talking therefore of two people living at a remote time in a remote place but of humanity as it is before God. We are Adam and Eve – we all experience temptation, but we court disintegration when we no longer respect God’s created order and try to redefine good and evil to suit ourselves. The serpent was long known as a symbol of wisdom, so the story revolves around the issues of self-awareness, the limits of our independence and the risk of alienation – from God, from the earth and from ourselves. Sin is not an infection passed relentlessly down the generations. It is a falling short that characterises us all as humans. Augustine’s teaching about the Fall and Original Sin is a distortion based, in part, on a misreading of Paul. The serpent is not presented in Genesis as Satan or the devil.

THE BIG SNEEZE Major Val Mylechreest continues to observe life on board her train to work MY daily commute would not be the same without the ‘carriage sniffer’. The journey always seems to include someone who didn’t 16

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Satan is a servant of God who appears as a public prosecutor in the book of Job. The devil figure is borrowed from other religions centuries later and should not be dignified with a capital letter. The writer of Revelation merges these images in the furnace of his imagination but we are not obliged to follow suit. Physical death is clearly part of God’s created order. The issue is that of spiritual death. It is this that the gospel tackles by pointing to the nature of God’s love as disclosed in Jesus. The way we approach this story is not a trivial matter. A literal reading of Genesis has done untold damage. It is time to mine the true riches of these stories rather than reduce them to folk tales. This point of view first appeared in Life And Work, the magazine of the Church of Scotland. Salvationist readers are invited to submit a response, in no more than 450 words.

have a mum like mine and has left home without a hanky or tissues. A serviette would do! Such dilemmas present themselves on crowded trains. Maddeningly, sniffers rarely identify themselves until I have firmly placed my laptop, my bag, my luggage and myself, so there is nowhere to run. Is it rude to offer sniffers tissues? I have witnessed such kindnesses and they are rarely received with thanks! Then – worse – there is the full-bodied sneezer! One recognises a sneeze is in the offing. One smiles and tries to be cheerful. A train carriage, though, is a relatively small space for a large sneeze. Do I make myself clear? My dilemma is: how long do I leave it before I discreetly wipe away the aftereffects of someone sneezing on me? Any length of time is too long! No matter how

THE REV HELLIER LIVES IN HEREFORD

they might apologise, it is never OK to be the victim of a sneezer. We have all seen advertisements describing how germs travel via coughs and sneezes. However, trains are not equipped with tissues, disinfectants, wet wipes or antiseptic gel. Maybe train operators could consider such provision! So, is God in the sneezes? Maybe he is, if we consider the fact that we need to be infectious in terms of our faith. Contagious Christians! Others need to take something away from being in our company – something pleasant and worthwhile – something of Christ. Authentic Christianity is attractive. May we spread the joy-germs today! MAJOR MYLECHREEST IS ADULT AND FAMILY MINISTRIES OFFICER, THQ

LETTERS MANY THANKS FOR ARTICLE ON CANCER PLEASE pass on my thanks and admiration to Major Skinner for his excellent article (Salvationist 29 September) regarding his difficult experiences during recent years. It was an open and frank revelation. I am pleased the major is still using his pastoral skills in helping others who are in a similar situation to himself. Several years ago, I had an operation for prostate cancer and regularly have check-ups to monitor the situation, so I can understand a little of what the major is going through. I will continue to pray for him and his ministry. Eddie Taylor, Tyldesley

UNPLEASANT SMELL ACCOMPANIES FRESH LOOK MANY congratulations to the Editorial Unit for the fresh look to The War Cry. The thicker, whiter paper makes the colours look brighter and gives a really professional look and feel. However, I notice that the new paper is accompanied by an unpleasant smell. Is there any way this could be remedied? Jack Evans, Liverpool Cry Editor, Major Nigel Bovey replies: I am delighted that the new-look War Cry has grabbed your attention. The paper is not only whiter but it is also cleaner – no more ink coming off on readers’ fingers. In common with other freshly printed newspapers and magazines, sometimes there is a residual smell of ink. The War Cry is printed on Monday evenings and packed and dispatched on Tuesday mornings. This quick turnaround does not give the ink any breathing space. The printers assure me that the vegetable-based ink contains no harmful

ingredients. They are also looking at the possibility of changing ink supplies. In the meantime, it would be helpful if those who receive the weekly delivery of papers opened the box to allow the aroma to dissipate.

MY BELIEF IS STRENGTHENED THANK you for including the article about Commissioner Steven Hedgren (Salvationist 20 October), along with Lieut-Colonel Wendy Leavey’s thoughtprovoking Bible study. It was encouraging to hear that others also had to fight through spiritually dark times to find God’s strength anew when facing terminal illness or near-death experiences. It has convinced me even more of God’s hand being present in every moment of our lives, whatever is going on. One thing I didn’t say in my own article was that in the 18 months preceding the diagnosis of my brain tumour there had been a change of divisional commander and divisional director of evangelism in the division. This meant that when I was diagnosed my divisional commander was the divisional youth secretary who had sent me into college and the divisional director of evangelism was someone I’d known since childhood as we had gone into training from the same corps. Coincidence? I don’t think so, and these two articles have helped strengthen that belief even further. Shaun Skinner, Major, Hereford

O War

ARMY REALLY IS SERVING THE PRESENT AGE I WAS interested to read the Editor’s comment about The Salvation Army exploring and exploiting the digital revolution. I think we are well on the path of exploring the digital age. The recent dual coverage via webcasts and Twitter of the European Congress as well as regular emails,

Facebook posts and tweets of Bible verses from Salvationists the world over is good proof. I was even able to join in along with others during the recent New Horizons holiday week by posting pictures and video clips of events taking place during the week direct to the New Horizons Facebook group thanks to free internet access at Butlins. And along with the fantastic news that Salvationist, The War Cry and Kids Alive! are to be made available across various digital platforms, The Salvation Army really is serving the present age. Morvyn Finch, Ipswich

EASY E ASY F FUNDRAISING UNDRAISING IF you shop online with retailers like Amazon, eBay, Argos, Tesco and Marks & Spencer, you could help raise money for The Clarence Adoo Trust. This can be achieved through easyfundraising.org.uk and works in a similar way to Nectar. Instead of earning points, you raise money for The Clarence Adoo Trust whenever you shop online. More than 3,000 retailers will each donate up to 15 per cent of the cost of your shopping shopping. It won’t cost you a penny more to shop via easyfundraising.org.uk and by making this one small change to your shopping habits, you could make a big difference to The Clarence Adoo Trust. Shirley Hutchinson, Worthing Salvationist 3 November 2012

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE APPOINTED Effective 8 November: O Major Ray Brown, Emergency Services Co-ordinator, IHQ O Major Pat Brown, Chaplain and City of London Liaison Officer, IHQ LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED Cloud Tembo, COS John LeCount, Milton Keynes O CSM Duncan Clampton, Harrow

O CSM

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Golden: O Lieut-Colonels Ernest and Margaret Coupe, 10 November DEDICATED TO GOD Doreen and Kira June, daughters of Mark and Jemma Parsons-Rubano, at Chalk Farm by Lieutenant Keely Standley O Hannah Lily, daughter of David and Miriam Chisholm, at Shildon by Major Linda Watson O Faith Hannah Lilian, daughter of Matthew Hodgson and Fern-Michelle Tremble, at Carlisle by Lieutenant Wendy Brown O Tahlia Rose, Ava Grace and Alyssa Michelle, daughters of Gareth and Vicki Dyer; Danielle Mia, Kayleigh Jane, Callum Lewis and Zachary David, children of Laurie and Natalie Rosser, all at Gorseinon by Majors Evangeline and Lawrie Brown respectively O Joshua, son of James and Seble Bates (Harrow), at Hillingdon by Brian Haylock O Maisie

O Nicholas

Charles, son of Bandsman James and Jennifer Haigh, at Guildford by Major Jean McDevitte

BEREAVED Christine Cunningham and Marian Hoskin, Bexleyheath, of their mother Esther Walton O John Marsh, Canterbury, of his sister Daphne Johnson O Joan Ozanne, Doncaster, of her brother Victor Errington O Ret BM Ken Farr, of his wife Bandswoman/Songster Joyce Farr, Songster Patricia Hudson, of her mother, both Hereford O Major

RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: O Major Esme King, Stowmarket (80 on 6 November) O Mrs Colonel Margaret Sharp, Northampton (85 on 11 November) O Mrs Lieut-Colonel Margaret Loxley, Barnet (90 on 11 November) Retirement address: O Majors Edward and Freda Benneyworth, Farnborough PROMOTED TO GLORY Lieut-Colonel Grace Brown from Leicester on 20 October Her son, Mr Graham Brown, lives in Woodhouse O Major Ellen Evans from Porth on 20 October A niece, Mrs Rita Real, lives in Pontypridd O Mrs

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL LINDA BOND: O Canada and Bermuda, Mon 29 Oct - Sun 4 Nov O ICO, Sun 11 O Caribbean, Mon 12 - Tu 20 O Papua New Guinea, Wed 21 - Tu 27 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER BARRY SWANSON) AND COMMISSIONER SUE SWANSON: O France and Belgium, Fri 2 Nov - Sun 4 O UK, South London Retired Officers Fellowship, Fri 16 O UK, Doncaster, Sat Sun 25 O ICO, Fri 30 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANDRÉ COX) AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: O Cenotaph, Whitehall (Remembrance Sunday), Sun 11 Nov O Westminster Abbey (laying of a wreath on the Tomb of the Innocents) Tu 20 O Bo’ness, Sat Sun 25 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: O Cenotaph, Whitehall (Remembrance Sunday), Sun 11 Nov O Scotland Council, Th 22 O Royal Albert Hall (Christmas with The Salvation Army), Th 29 COMMISSIONERS ALISTAIR AND ASTRID HERRING: O Thailand, Mon 12 Nov - Fri 16 COMMISSIONERS LALKIAMLOVA AND LALHLIMPUII: O Middle East Region, Wed 14 Nov - Mon 19 COMMISSIONERS ROBERT AND JANET STREET: O UK, Stotfold, Fri 2 Nov - Sun 4 UK, South-East Essex Retired Officers Meeting, Tu 13 O UK, Rugby, Sat Sun 18

INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS: O Stowmarket, Sat Sun 4 Nov

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TRIBUTES MAJOR MARGARET GRIFFITHS THE youngest of five children, Margaret Griffiths was born at St Leonards-on-Sea in 1930. Her mother, a violinist, taught in a local school, and her father was a travelling salesman. All the children learnt to play an instrument. Margaret started on the piano, and – when she joined The Salvation Army in her teens – the cornet, which she greatly enjoyed. She continued to play throughout her life until recent years. The influence of the Army led her to train as a nurse and midwife. Commissioned in 1955, she went to Ghana two years later; the subsequent years in Africa afforded her the greatest joy and fulfilment. She had a deep love and respect for the Africa she knew. In Ghana she ran a maternity amenity in a rural area with one other nurse. From 1966 to 1980 she served at Durban Mothers’ Hospital in South Africa, with responsibility for training nurses and midwives and later as matron. After a two-year period in the UK at Glebelands, she returned to South Africa in 1982 – this time as matron at Booth Hospital in Cape Town. The major retired in 1991 after a short final appointment at an eventide home in Edinburgh. For some time in retirement she worked as a nurse in eventide homes. She lived at Brighton and Bexhill before taking up residence at Villa Adastra in Hassocks, where she received the care she had so unstintingly given to others.. Major Griffiths had a natural empathy with children, which encouraged them to trust and love her. She enjoyed engaging with them at the Army and took a great interest in the development of younger family members. She loved knitting and petit point and her family and friends cherish examples of her intricate tapestry work in the form of wall hangings, pictures and cushions. Sewing occupied any spare moment. The major had many good friends who enriched her life, as she did theirs. She was a gentle, self-effacing but strong person, whose religious commitment was total. – W. G.

WILLIAM (BILLY) WRAY, SALE BILLY was born into a Salvationist family in Londonderry in 1934. He moved to Crewe to marry Rita in 1957. A renowned flugelhorn player, he served faithfully at Londonderry, Crewe, Shaw, Manchester Citadel, Sale and Kendal as bandmaster, songster leader and YP band leader, and fully enjoyed the many opportunities to worship and minister. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, Billy was a great family man. He adored each of his five grandsons and the extra dimension they brought to his life. Billy was known for his encouraging words and compassionate nature. His faith was strong right up to his promotion to Glory, and he took every opportunity God granted him to witness. – R. W.

SONGSTER RESERVIST MRS AUDREY MILLER, UPPER NORWOOD AUDREY was a thirdgeneration Salvationist who soldiered all her life at Upper Norwood, and was the first to be dedicated to God in what was then the new hall. She met her husband Percy while specialling at Hemel Hempstead with the songsters. Their marriage was blessed with their children, Nicholas and Wendy. The couple are remembered for their caring ministry, which touched many lives. Percy was promoted to Glory in 2003, after 52 years of happy marriage. Audrey was a loyal songster and cradle roll sergeant. Although latterly living with dementia, she continued to be involved in corps life. As No 1 on the roll, Audrey cut the cake at the recent 125th anniversary celebrations. – N. M./R. C.

MRS HELEN NICHOLS, WATFORD BORN in 1930, Helen grew up in Watford and was happily married to Frank for more than 50 years. Her first contact with the Army was through the Tufty Club which her daughters, Angela and Jennifer, attended.

Enrolled as a soldier in 1974, Helen became actively involved as a brownie guider, songster secretary and pub-boomer. She excelled at organising special events, from sales of work to coffee mornings, and was a very caring over-60 club secretary. In 2010 she received the Certificate of Recognition for Exceptional Service, and in 2011 won the local ‘Unsung Hero’ award for services to charity. A prayer found in her songbook, ‘Out of my life may Jesus shine’, exemplified her life. – P. H.

RETIRED CORPS SERGEANTMAJOR ERIC STEVENSON, KING’S LYNN A LIFELONG Salvationist, Eric – and his wife Olive – moved from Southall Citadel to King’s Lynn when he retired from work at Heathrow Airport. Eric became a very well-respected CSM, and was soon known in the town as ‘the Army man’. Olive was promoted to Glory in 2007. Subsequently diagnosed with cancer, Eric later entered a care home, but – with help

from corps members and staff – continued to attend Sunday morning meetings. When this became impossible, the band visited from time to time – a ministry also appreciated by other residents and staff. Eric was a well-loved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle, and – above all – a faithful servant of the Lord. – J. E.

IVOR MITCHELL, LURGAN THE corps bandmaster for many years, Ivor was a talented musician. His wide appreciation of music ranged from jazz to church and choral, and thus his excellent choice and interpretation of band music enhanced the meetings and blessed many people. Ivor was also well known within the rugby and cricketing fraternity. He loved to ‘bump into’ a friend on the street, whereupon he immediately invited them for coffee and conversation – or, more often, a debate! He presented a somewhat rough exterior, but those who knew him well saw the kind and generous heart beneath. Ivor leaves his wife, Judy, and children, Joanna and Jonathan. – G. W.

PLEASE note that pressure for space means tributes have to be edited. This has caused pain to some family members when tributes have appeared in shortened form. To avoid such distress it is requested that soldiers’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 120 words. We will then make as few changes as possible. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes

COMING SOON! Salvationist is going digital. As well as being available as a newspaper, the paper that is essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army will soon be available via an app. Salvationist Editor Major Stephen Poxon explains: ‘Just by downloading a free app onto an Apple or Android smartphone or tablet, our tech-savvy readers will be able to get all the benefits of Salvationist in a format that is truly mobile and modern.’

Salvationist is on Facebook IF you can’t wait until your next edition of Salvationist arrives, why not go online and see what is happening on our Facebook page! Visit www.facebook.com/SalvationistOnline and click ‘like’ to keep up-to-date with our content, what’s going on in the Army world and to connect with fellow Salvationists. The printed publication will still feature all our regular items – news, Bible studies, features and announcements – with the Facebook page aimed at enhancing the reader experience. Salvationist Editor Major Stephen Poxon says: ‘Facebook presents a new opportunity to connect with Salvationist readers and the Army world and is a great way for us to reach people who do not usually read or buy the paper. It is also a great supplement for our regular readers.’ So, if you like Salvationist, ‘like’ our Facebook page too! – L. B. Salvationist 3 November 2012

NEW COMMITMENTS 1. & 2. GWENDA FASSENFELT Soldier CAROLINE STONE Adherent member CHATHAM ALTHOUGH Gwenda has been associated with the Army for many years, her involvement was restricted when she cared for her late mother. She has since developed friendships in the corps and decided to make a commitment. Throughout her life Caroline has faced many challenges but has found hope and stability in her relationship with Jesus. Corps officer Major Alec Still enrolled Gwenda as a soldier and welcomed Caroline as an adherent member. – M. S. 3. THERESA TORR Soldier WOKINGHAM MAJOR Jenine Main (DHQ) led morning worship and re-enrolled Theresa as a soldier. In their youth the major and Theresa belonged to Basingstoke Corps. Referring to the song ‘Amazing Grace’, Theresa said she could not understand why God should love her. She said she had worn many masks and tried to hide from God and herself, but through his grace she was glad to recommit to soldiership. – N. M. 4. BRETT GORE Soldier MARGATE BRETT started to attend the corps several months ago with his younger siblings. His prayer is that the Lord will look out for him every day and keep him safe in all he does. Corps officer Major Thea Wood enrolled Brett as a soldier. – R. K. 5. CHRISTINA MADSEN Adherent member BEDLINGTON EIGHT years ago Christina arrived in the UK from Denmark where she attended the Danish Free Church. She was invited to the corps by a neighbour and started to attend with her daughter Ninna-Louise who was dedicated to God in the same meeting that Christina was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Major Peter Clark. – K. O. 6. PHIL JOHNSON Adherent member READING CENTRAL CORPS officer Major Iain Hudson welcomed Phil as an adherent member. Phil returned to the Army through his son becoming a junior soldier and playing in the YP band. He testified to the strength of welcome he and his wife Louise received when they started to attend worship at the beginning of the year. – I. H.

7. LINDA DALE Adherent member FAKENHAM LINDA had connections with the Army and started to attend when her sister visited. She hosts a Bible study group and helps in the charity shop. Corps officer Captain Stuart Ashman welcomed Linda as an adherent member. – S. A. 8. KERRY MCINNES Adherent member OBAN KERRY volunteered at the midweek Hope Kitchen programme and was made welcome by the corps family. She has enjoyed Bible study and accepted further responsibilities. During summer placement Cadet Karin Bruinewoud welcomed Kerry as an adherent member. – K. B. 20

Salvationist 3 November 2012