SALVATIONIST For everyone linked to The Salvation Army
www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 4 April 2020
Home and away
The ministry of the Overseas Services Unit
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LIVES OF SACRIFICIAL SERVICE
SEE PAGE 10
A MESSAGE FROM THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER
Keep singing! God and I guarantee his Holy Spirit will become a reality in a more remarkable way. Paul and Silas weren’t just singing, they were also praying. And I want to encourage you to go on in your prayers – in your own individual devotions and gathered as a family. I encourage you to say a few prayers at noon each day: for political leaders who have incredible burdens upon them at this time, for our neighbours, our church families, our communities, our own families and ourselves. Put an alarm on your phone for 11.55 am, five minutes before we begin to pray. My encouragement to you is to go on singing. Find the songs within you, listen to Fortress Radio (fortressradio. online), play Christian CDs or downloads and playlists. Engage in the songs that will lift your hearts and spirits as you place yourselves again into the hands of God who has promised to be with us in these days. May God bless us and hear our prayers as we make them in the name of Jesus and as we sing our songs to his glory and his praise.
N the meeting room at territorial headquarters, where many staff members would usually join together in worship on Thursday mornings, we have the flags of each of the more than 62 nationalities working in the building. It’s a reminder to me that the whole world is coming together to cope with the coronavirus pandemic at this time. We are all in this together, and together we’ll find our way through. Some of you might remember a game called football. It used to be on the TV back in the good old days. I recall going to see professional games and being in awe of the singing of thousands of people. Often when a team went a goal down the opposition would begin to chant. ‘You’re not singing, you’re not singing, you’re not singing anymore.’ Then the opposing supporters would reply, ‘You only sing when you’re
winning, sing when you’re winning. You only sing when you’re winning.’ We may be in a situation where it won’t be natural to start singing. It may feel like things are crowding in on us. But I want to suggest that singing is a game changer. When Paul and Silas were in Philippi they were thrown into prison for taking a demon out of a slave girl who had been a source of income for some of the people of the town. In prison that night, in the darkness, in the isolation, what were they doing? ‘About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose’ (Acts 16:25 and 26). I think praying and singing are game changers. Psalm 137 reflects the experience of God’s people in exile. It says ‘By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion. There on the poplars we hung our harps, for there our captors asked us for songs, our tormentors demanded songs of joy; they said, “Sing us one of the songs of Zion!”’ (vv1–3). Whatever our singing voices, we need to allow the song that God in Christ has given to us to bubble up within us. I encourage you to sing alone, in groups or just quietly within your heart. Deliberately make a choice to sing to
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GENERAL Brian Peddle
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Staff are working from home and may not be contactable by phone or able to deal with non-electronic correspondence
EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford – 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – 020 7367 4892 Melita Day-Lewis – 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER Major Godspower Anozie – 020 7367 4893 ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden – 020 7367 4883 GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight – 020 7367 4895 Louise Phillips – 020 7367 4896 PROOFREADER Chris Horne
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Salvationist 4 April 2020
TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN 020 7367 4500 0845 634 0101
Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by Walstead Roche Ltd, St Austell. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland. The Salvation Army is a Christian church and a registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399. ISSN 2516-5909
ANTHONY COTTERILL COMMISSIONER TERRITORIAL COMMANDER O This
message is based on a video released by the TC that can be viewed at facebook.com/SalvationistOnline or youtu.be/1iPKYik_t4Q
FOUNDER William Booth
TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Mal Davies
CONTACT SALVATIONIST 020 7367 4890 salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk Find Salvationist on Facebook SalvationistOnline Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK
CONTENTS
ALL CHANGE
A message from the Territorial Commander
I SPENT most of my early life abroad with my parents who were on Salvation Army service in Ghana and Pakistan. That was normal for me. It was only when I returned to the UK, just before my 10th birthday, that I faced a culture shock. People did things differently here and it was a struggle to fit in. My new schoolmates laughed out loud when I turned up with the old-fashioned football boots I’d used at my previous school. They nicknamed me Stanley Matthews – if only my football talents had lived up to the name! That was almost 50 years ago but, despite advances in communication, moving to a new country can still be a challenge. On pages 12 and 13 Major Pam Cameron shares insights into international service and the work of the Overseas Services Unit. The unit supports personnel in their transitions to other territories and back again, as well as during their terms of service. Major Rosemary Dawson writes about the international service of Majors Brian and Dorothy Knightley on pages 10 and 11. The Knightleys served in Zimbabwe and led the Army’s work in Liberia. For that achievement they were admitted to the Order of the Founder – the only UK couple to have jointly received the award. Someone once described culture as ‘the way we do things round here’. The way we do things round here has changed in the past few weeks. It’s almost as if we’ve moved to another country. Our lives have been altered significantly from just a short time ago. With the majority of us having to stay at home for most if not all of the time, we’re having to adapt to a ‘new normal’. Not only are we coping with new practices but we’re using unfamiliar terminology. ‘Self-isolation’, ‘social distancing’ and ‘PPE’ (personal protective equipment) are now part of the language, and the word ‘furlough’, which we often speak of in the Army, is now being used in a quite different way. Our changes may be temporary, but it will be interesting to see if there are any longer-lasting effects. Will people be kinder to one another? Might we take more care with our hygiene and be more discerning in our spending? And will the resolve, imagination and co-operation that are being used to address the situation be harnessed to solve other crises such as climate change, homelessness and poverty? With all that’s going on it would be easy to lose sight of the fact that this Sunday is Palm Sunday – the day when we celebrate Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. He wasn’t what people expected. He came to change the culture, to establish the Kingdom of God – a new way of doing things round here. The people found that difficult to accept and soon changed their cries from ‘Hosanna!’ to ‘Crucify him!’ – not realising that his death and resurrection were the exact means that God would use to change the world. Whatever changes we may be struggling with – personally, in our families or with our work – may we be assured of the unchanging love of God expressed on the cross. And may we allow God to transform us into the kind of people who can help transform our culture into the culture of his Kingdom.
Prayer journey for Lent
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Lent reflection Head, hands and feet: Jesus
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News
4 and 5
News feature 6 and 7 Army steps up worldwide response to pandemic
by Commissioner Robert Street
Feature 10 and 11 Attempting the impossible by Major Rosemary Dawson
Interview 12 and 13 Serving those who serve abroad Major Pam Cameron talks to Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts
Reflection 14 and 15 Holding on to a piece of bread by Commissioner Keith Banks
More rear-mirror views
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by General John Larsson (Retired)
Diary of self-isolation Just keep swimming! Week 1
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by Major Karen Sandford
Bible study Man of sorrows
18 and 19
by Major Darren Shaw
Through the week with Salvationist 18 and 19 by Major Freda Benneyworth
New commitments
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Letters
21
Announcements
22 and 23
The Salvation Army and me
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Featuring Kevin Elliott
From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts
SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated
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NEWS
Bible reading initiative launched UKI IN response to the isolation that many people are experiencing, Major Phil Layton (Upper Norwood) has launched a free service to deliver an email twice a week containing a chapter of John’s Gospel and some simple but searching questions. Major Phil said: ‘The email will also contain links to a worship hymn and a contemporary worship song, as well as other helpful videos to encourage people who would like to strengthen their faith through apologetics and evangelism.’ Within days of the initiative being announced more than 1,000 people had signed up. The first email was sent out on Sunday 29 March. O To take part, email philip.layton@salvationarmy.org.uk with the word ‘YES’ in the title DUNSTABLE: Despite the Mothering Sunday meeting being cancelled, corps officer Major Lindsay Brevitt thought there was no reason that mothers should miss out on their traditional flowers. Despite her family being in self-isolation, Major Lindsay organised for the collection and distribution of 80 pot plants to ladies who are members or regular attenders of the corps. The plants were left on doorsteps or handed over, and recipients appreciated the extra mile that the volunteers went to remind them that they weren’t forgotten. – SB CIRENCESTER: Although the Mothering Sunday family meeting had to be cancelled, corps leader Territorial Envoy Kim Whyard and Sunday Club leader Corinne Walters delivered flowers, with a newsletter and a short message, to corps members at their homes. A recorded message from each Sunday Club member, which was going to be shown during the meeting, was sent to the mothers online. – MG
READING CENTRAL: Reading Football Club Conference and Events donated almost 100kg of fresh fruit and vegetables to the corps after having to postpone events due to the coronavirus outbreak. The donations were redistributed to families and various charities within the town, and allowed corps folk to prepare fresh meals for those in need. ‘When we talk about our club’s identity being entrenched in community, this is what we mean. And this is when community matters,’ said the club’s chief executive Nigel Howe. – AR
Fortress radio unites listeners UKI MORE than 5,000 people from the UK and beyond tuned into Fortress radio station on each of the two Sundays after the government’s announcement that all public gatherings were to be suspended. Making sure listeners would not miss out on Sunday meetings, Fortress ran programmes based on a day of Army activities: knee drill, open-air, holiness, praise and salvation meetings. On Mother’s Day Major Tim Lennox and Lieutenant Charlotte (both Dublin City) and Stephen Poxon began the day with prayers for everyone affected by the virus as well as staff caring for them. Major Andrew Stone (THQ) and Major Alison Stone (Regent Hall) brought everyone together in a holiness meeting. BM Marc Harry (Lincoln) later hosted the salvation meeting, finishing an unusual day for many when corporate worship was achieved through radio. The following Sunday Major Keith White hosted the knee drill and Andrew, Alison and Marc again hosted the holiness hour and salvation meeting. ‘God bless you. This radio channel is a lifeline for Salvationists self-isolating. Thank you,’ said one listener. ‘I thoroughly enjoyed the holiness meeting. I remembered my cap in time for the open-air meeting! A big thank you to all at this very difficult time. God bless your ministry,’ said another. – SH O Tune in every day at fortressradio.online SWINDON CITADEL: Corps officers Captains Ian and Keely Standley have introduced a weekly ‘Worship at Home’ document for Sunday mornings that is emailed or posted to corps members. A prayer letter and a Bible study will be sent out weekly, while craft packs are being distributed to the parent-and-toddler group. Takeaway Messy Church bags with Easter activities for families were prepared for Holy Week. Other resources are being shared on social media, including calls to prayer and calls to respond. The officers also plan to set up a video podcast on Facebook and YouTube. – KS
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Editor's note: The news reports on this page are from events and meetings that took place before the current safety advice relating to the coronavirus outbreak. Please send in news of how your corps is adapting to the situation through innovative ministry opportunities. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk. Thank you.
New journal launches to inspire Salvationists WILLIAM BOOTH COLLEGE THE latest issue of the WBC Journal has been published. The journal is an online resource that contains academic articles and book reviews representative of recent studies by Salvationists. The journal covers theology, pastoral care and leadership, and aims to raise awareness, inform thinking and inspire people to delve deeply into the subjects presented. The latest issue includes an analysis by Major Lindy Rose of Jackson Pollock’s ‘action painting’ as a method of theological reflection and an investigation by Colonel Deborah Bungay into the benefits of continued professional development to pastoral practice. Alongside these articles, Captain Rebecka Cotterill reviews Graham Tomlin’s The Widening Circle and Lieutenant Helen Froud reviews the collaborative work Invitation To Research In Practical Theology. – AR O The WBC Journal is available by visiting salvationarmy.org.uk/ william-booth-college/wbc-journal
Clacton Home League Treasurer Rita Means receives her retirement certificate from corps officer Major Maria Sampson after 30 years’ service
CLOWNE: The Salvation Army Boys Adventure Corps held a coffee evening and bring-and-buy sale, raising £431 for the charity When You Wish Upon A Star, which grants the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses. A number of parents, friends and corps members attended. The event was a credit to the boys and their leaders. – GH
SOUTH NORMANTON: Under the long-term leadership of Divisional Envoy Ruth Sheppard, corps folk celebrated the 25th corps anniversary and enjoyed lunch in the hall. After regular meetings began in 1992 an outreach centre was established in 1993, which became a corps two years later. – RS
BEDLINGTON: Guided by the theme His Strength Is Perfect, Sunderland Millfield Songsters brought an inspiring weekend of music, personal testimony and biblical reflection, including witness at a nearby garden centre. The meetings also featured the recognition and retirement of Bedlington Songsters Dora Doyle and Hilda Storey, who had each given 66 years of exemplary service to the brigade. The delightful and refreshing weekend strengthened friendship, fellowship and faith. – GS
DUNSTABLE: Seventy people attended a vintage afternoon tea, enjoying music from a guitarist and Kempston Hammers Choir. The event, which was organised by Debt Advice Co-ordinator Fiona Simpson, Lesley Cope and Mark Drummond, and supported by a team of volunteers, raised £1,400 towards the Army’s debt advice service. Corps officer Major Lindsay Brevitt congratulated Fiona on the event’s success and said it was a wonderful way to publicise the service and its contribution to improving people’s lives. – JB CORRECTION: The report about the distribution of children's craft materials (page 6, 28 March) took place at Bristol South not Chalk Farm. Salvationist apologises for the error. Salvationist 4 April 2020
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NEWS FEATURE
Army steps up worldwide response to pandemic IHQ
USA
FLEXIBILITY and adaptation characterise the Army’s response in communities around the world impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The Movement is meeting new needs while endeavouring to maintain its services for vulnerable people, often amending practices to meet the necessary guidelines and legislation to curb the spread of the virus. AFRICA The Army in Congo (Brazzaville) is preparing a programme to increase knowledge about Covid-19 and equip individuals with practical disease-prevention measures. Handwashing material will be given as part of the initiative. The Liberia and Sierra Leone Command has taken initial safety measures to help protect officers, employees, centres and schools. The Army is planning an intervention strategy for awareness, prevention and care for victims in the coming days. A social media platform is being set up for sharing preventative measures, awareness and updates on the virus. In Zambia, the Army has issued a five-point plan to Salvationists and friends: Pray, Listen, Clean, Care and Act. Territorial leaders Colonels Ian and Wendy Swan observe that it is ‘especially important that we remain aware of the spiritual and physical needs of our communities’. AMERICAS AND CARIBBEAN Salvation Army-run children’s homes in Jamaica have adapted by providing residents with online teaching tools to enhance the materials given by schools. Technology is also being used to give access to Bible study materials and online opportunities for worship. In Argentina, the Army’s Buenos Aires Social Services Office is distributing bags with non-perishable food and necessities to people with limited resources. In Uruguay, Burger King has supported Salvation Army personnel in offering food parcels to families in need. Major Elena Miño’s team is going house-to-house with the packages. While professional baseball may have 6
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been halted across the USA, the Atlanta Braves first baseman, Freddie Freeman, has donated $25,000 to the Army’s coronavirus response in light of the Greater Atlanta thrift stores having to close. As in many areas, staff and volunteers in Lewisville are creatively making necessary adjustments to continue essential services for the community. Lunch each day is being delivered ‘to go’ with more than 75 clients picking up a free lunch. One-on-one case management meetings are taking place in the mobile kitchen. With the temporary closure of Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida, perishable food items have been donated to the Army. A truckload of apples, oranges, potatoes and other fresh produce is greatly assisting Army staff to help those affected by the coronavirus outbreak, particularly shelter residents and drop-in clients in need. The Army is serving a free community dinner every weekday and has given fresh produce to nearly 300 senior citizens. ‘We have been serving the populations most vulnerable to the pandemic, people experiencing homelessness and senior citizens,’ says Orlando Area Commander Captain Ken Chapman. ‘This generous donation means we can serve so many more in need.’
EUROPE In the Czech Republic, contingency plans are seeing Salvation Army hostels remaining open 24/7 to ensure that residents are not putting themselves or others at risk through unnecessary social interaction. Kindergartens run by the Army in Finland are operating under the direction of the national government, and are providing care for the children of families whose parents work in key areas such as social work, healthcare and the fire and rescue service. Retirement homes operated by the Army in France have remained open, but visits have been prohibited. Food provision continues in Paris. Young people connected with the Army in Georgia have been distributing care packages to older people in their community. In Dresden, Germany, the city council has placed vehicles and drivers at the Army’s disposal to deliver food to people experiencing homelessness. Creative approaches are being deployed to help families, such as a corps playground being opened to one family at a time. A children’s outreach team that usually uses drama as part of its programme has made material available on Spotify. In Greenland the situation is compounded
have continued to prepare food for distribution in plastic containers. Despite a state of emergency in Romania, corps members have been checking up on individuals and family members known to them. Due to supply chain problems, the Army in Belgium has taken the unusual step of asking supporters to use their sewing skills to make new face masks to an approved design. Meanwhile, in Estonia, the Army’s rehabilitation centre has amended its soup kitchen provision to give nutritious meals outdoors while maintaining social distancing.
Spain
Greenland by heavy snow and daytime temperatures well below freezing. The Army is partnering with Kofoeds Skole and the Sermersooq municipality to achieve a holistic response. Hats, mittens, scarves and socks are being given with food wherever possible. The Army’s efforts in Italy have featured on national television. Online programmes and activities have been launched to help residents of the Virgilio Paglieri centre combat the stress and isolation of being restricted to their rooms. A temporary day and night shelter for people experiencing homelessness was reopened in just two days by the Army in the Netherlands. The centre will support up to 30 people. In Almere, a mobile grocery shop serves elderly and disabled people. The Army in Norway continues to meet needs in Oslo, where a mobile canteen has been deployed to distribute food. The canteen is providing sustenance for 100 families and individuals each day. The
service is being bolstered by a telephone service for people to call for information and help. Elsewhere in the country, the Army in Rodeløkka will deliver food, providing a ‘to go’ option three days a week. In Lisbon, Portugal, the Army’s overnight homeless shelter is being converted into a 24-hour shelter, in conjunction with local authorities as part of the government’s plan to protect the homeless population. This will reduce unnecessary movement throughout the city. Salvation Army volunteers in Dénia, Spain, are continuing to give emergency food to at-risk groups. Due to a shortage of protective equipment, they are improvising with plastic bags rather than gloves on their hands. Extensive operations are under way in Sweden to meet growing needs. The Army in Stockholm has adapted its breakfast and hot coffee for its vulnerable service users so that pre-packaged sandwiches can be taken away instead. Grocery supplies are also being given out. The extended provision of emergency accommodation continues. Netz4, Chrischtehüsli and the Evangelical Methodist Church have joined forces with the Army in Switzerland to ensure the containment of coronavirus while giving people at the margins of society vital support. Pastoral support is being offered via a special phone line. In Latvia, the Army’s 11 soup kitchens
SOUTH ASIA The Army’s Mirpur Clinic in Bangladesh – which usually focuses on treating tuberculosis and leprosy – is gearing up to support patients presenting with coronavirus symptoms. The Army is planning to provide awareness material and a starter hygiene pack to around 2,500 people. Evangeline Booth Hospital in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, run by the India Western Territory, has had one of its wards declared by the government as an isolation ward for coronavirus patients. SOUTH PACIFIC AND EAST ASIA In Singapore, dedicated volunteers and staff from the Army’s Family Support Services team have been distributing food rations to frail and elderly people. Although elderly day centres across the city-state have closed, Salvation Army social workers are continuing to check in on service users over the phone and provide any necessary help. Healthcare company Johnson & Johnson has collaborated with the Army in Korea to distribute 20,000 face masks and 4,000 emergency relief kits to vulnerable individuals and medical professionals. Each kit includes five masks, disinfection tissues, hand sanitiser, hand cream, mouthwash and body wash. With the closure of all schools in Japan, one unintended consequence is that a significant number of children are going without lunches. Corps in strategic locations have stepped in to provide midday meals, meeting basic needs as well as giving children a carefully-managed opportunity to enjoy interaction in small groups. – AR O The
latest video message from General Brian Peddle can be viewed at vimeo.com/ salvationarmyihq or facebook.com/ GeneralBPeddle Salvationist 4 April 2020
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RESOURCES I A prayer journey for Lent
Living limitless love Holy Week focus
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HE prayer journey through Lent has been all about the limitless love of God. It has helped us reflect on that love: what it’s like, how we can experience it more deeply, how it can transform our relationships and how it can ignite mission in our corps. Now as we approach Holy Week we focus on the love of God revealed in the suffering and death of Jesus. Take time to look up the Bible passages, reflect on the comments and make the prayers. May the limitless love of God in Jesus be reflected in your own life.
PALMS, PRAISES AND PROPHECY Palm Sunday Sunday 5 April John 12:12–19 King Jesus, in our imaginations we join in waving palm branches and shouting praises as we remember your journey into Jerusalem. You are worthy of our adoration. We know that riding on a humble donkey was the fulfilment of prophecy. Thank you, Lord, for being obedient to your Father’s will.
PASSOVER, PROFIT AND PURITY Monday 6 April John 2:13–17 Lord, we humbly ask you to cleanse us from all our sin. We know we are often like those merchants who made profit in the Temple courts at the time of Passover. Purify our hearts today, we pray. Cleanse our souls and breathe holiness into our lives.
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by Major Gillian Miller
BETRAYAL Tuesday 7 April
GOOD FRIDAY Friday 10 April
Matthew 26:14–16 Judas had walked closely with Jesus for three years, yet he still betrayed him and received a monetary reward for agreeing to hand over his Master to the authorities. As we consider Judas’s part in this Holy Week, pause and remember these words: ‘Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us’ (Matthew 6:12 New Matthew Bible). This assures us that Jesus forgave Judas and he forgives you and me.
John 18:28 to 19:37 Lord Jesus, today we remember again the events of your crucifixion. We try to imagine your agony as the nails pierced your hands and feet. Jesus, your suffering on the cross horrifies us and yet you willingly surrendered yourself to die for the sins of the world – for my sins. Thank you.
HOLY REST Wednesday 8 April Dear Jesus, help me to see the importance of resting in order to focus on the important decisions I need to make. As you faced the horror of what was to come, you found time to be quiet, to seek peace, strength and courage. Thank you for this example of holy rest.
MARKED OUT TO LOVE Thursday 9 April John 13:1–38 In the narrative of this Last Supper we have the beautiful commission to love one another – ‘As I have loved you, so you must love one another’ (v34). O Lord, when I think about your love for me, I am overwhelmed. Give me that same love for others that you have for me – that perfect, limitless love. This prayer journey for Lent appears in Prayer Matters and at facebook.com/groups/SA.prayer. networkUKI
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IN THE TOMB Saturday 11 April John 19:40 Jesus’ body lay in the tomb on the Sabbath day, prepared for burial. The disciples knew their Lord was gone from them as they had seen his body wrapped in linen, lying in the tomb. Lord, just like your disciples on that day, we can feel very far from you because we think you have left us. Thank you for your promise that you will never leave us or forsake us and we are never left on our own.
RESURRECTION Easter Day Sunday 12 April John 20:19–37 Today is the greatest day in history, the day when death was conquered and we celebrate that Jesus is alive! Imagine what it must have been like when the women found an empty tomb. Scripture tells us that ‘the other disciple... saw and believed’ (v8). As we look on the empty cross and see the empty tomb, we rejoice today that we too believe and can say with confidence, ‘Hallelujah! Christ is alive!’
LENT REFLECTION
‘When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals – one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing”’ (Luke 23:33 and 34)
Head, hands and feet
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place the hands and feet were nailed to the cross. Their task was completed – except for enduring the excruciating pain that would follow. But the head still had more to say – powerful, life-changing, never-to-be-forgotten, eternal words of grace. The dying thief discovered that if all you can do at the end of a ‘failed’ life is ask God to remember you for his Kingdom, he will (see Luke 23:43). The crowd who mocked and jeered and goaded Jesus to save himself witnessed no anger, no counter argument. They simply heard words of forgiveness. They saw the head that was thirsty refuse a drink to dull its senses, and heard Jesus charge John to take care of his heartbroken mother. For those tempted to dismiss the Crucifixion as fake or staged, they could hear – and we still can hear – the horrifying torment of Jesus expressing his utter forsakenness from God as he took the sins of the world on his shoulders (see Matthew 27:46). This was pain, grief and sorrow beyond our comprehension. Before Jesus’ dying cry, announcing ‘It is finished’, the greatest act of faith ever known took place: ‘Father, into your hands I commit my Spirit’ (Luke 23:46). None of us can come close to understanding what our salvation cost Jesus, but Isaac Watts took Jesus’ head, hands and feet to help us as we try: See, from his head, his hands, his feet, Sorrow and love flow mingled down; Did e’er such love and sorrow meet, Or thorns compose so rich a crown?
HE head that had so impressed the teachers in the Temple courts with its wisdom at the age of 12, and had recently castigated the temple authorities for abusing the same courts for financial gain, was now beaten repeatedly with the staff Jesus had been given for his mock coronation by the soldiers (see Matthew 27:30). The head that gave sinners back their dignity was now spat upon. The head that revealed truth from God now listened to lie after lie from all sides. The situation was bizarre – ridiculous. But it was real, happening, and leading to its inevitable consequence of murder on a cross. The hands that had washed the disciples’ feet were bound on Jesus’ arrest. Their last free action had been to heal the ear of the high priest’s servant. This was nothing new; they had healed and blessed countless people. Now they were fastened (see John 18:12). The authorities wanted them out of action. Of what were they afraid? The feet that had travelled the length and breadth of the nation with a message of love and hope from God the Father, were now marched from one building of authority to another. In each they stood before someone who presumed himself better than the prisoner Jesus. These feet didn’t attempt to run away. They didn’t kick out. They stood – awaiting the outcome. On the way to the Crucifixion, the feet stumbled, the hands couldn’t hold the cross and the battered head, bowed with exhaustion and pain, wore a crown of thorns. When the Crucifixion took
Jesus by Commissioner Robert Street FOR DISCUSSION O Consider the irony in binding and suppressing the hands of Jesus and then consider the many people unable to use their talents in the service of Jesus because of their circumstances – illness, imprisonment, civil war, oppression or other debilitating factors. O Why do some people enjoy mocking, goading and hurting others when they are in a weakened position? How can we guard against doing it? O On the night of his execution, Jesus stood before his accusers, stumbled to Calvary and finally had his feet nailed to a cross of wood. Reflect on the contrast between what happened to Jesus’ feet and what happened to those of the disciples, including being washed and running away. O Jesus promised the dying thief that he would be with him in Paradise. The thief offered no goodness or good works. He simply turned to Jesus, throwing himself on God’s grace. He wasn’t disappointed. What lessons are there here for us regarding any thought that we might earn our way to Heaven? O The love of Christ was evident right up to his dying cry. It was total and all-embracing. How well do we witness to and preach it? O Consider how Jesus felt utterly forsaken by God, yet dared to commit his Spirit into his care as he died. How can this help us when we feel at our weakest or most forgotten or rejected?
This reflection appears in Head, Hands And Feet, a new book by Robert Street, available from SP&S priced £3 (plus postage and packing)
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Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast Save in the death of Christ, my God; All the vain things that charm me most, I sacrifice them to his blood. (SASB 208)
COMMISSIONER STREET LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN LANGFORD Salvationist 4 April 2020
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FEATURE Sacrificial service
Monrovia Corps
General John Larsson admits the Knightleys to the Order of the Founder
A new Army building in Liberia
Attempting the impossible Major Rosemary Dawson recalls the international service of Lieut-Colonels Brian and Dorothy Knightley, members of the Order of the Founder, who were both promoted to Glory in late 2019
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DMITTANCE to the Order of the Founder – The Salvation Army’s highest honour – is relatively rare. Instituted on 20 August 1917 by General Bramwell Booth, it is specifically given to mark ‘outstanding service rendered by officers and soldiers such as would in spirit and achievement have been specially commended by the Founder’. Lieut-Colonels Brian and Dorothy Knightley were admitted to the Order of 10
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the Founder by General John Larsson during territorial family celebration meetings at London’s Royal Festival Hall in November 2004. They are the only UK married couple to be given this honour. The citation described their 13 years of sacrificial and dedicated service in Liberia, West Africa, as ‘above and beyond the call of duty’. The couple had returned to the UK earlier that week for imminent retirement, after farewell
meetings in Liberia were cancelled because of an upsurge in the civil war. The Army had been established in Liberia in 1988 by pioneer officers from Canada, Majors Len and Dorothy Millar. When the outbreak of civil war forced them to leave in May 1990 there were 10 corps, 700 soldiers and a number of schools. Seventeen months later, during which time the civil war had disrupted the Army’s work, Brian and Dorothy arrived, with two suitcases, two Bibles, a cornet and precious little else. At the end of their 13-year leadership there were 18 corps, 16 outposts, two large clinics, two hostels, an officer training college, 30 national officers, 2,000 soldiers and more than 4,000 children receiving education in 11 Army schools. This was achieved through dogged determination, sheer hard work and dedication. Living in constant danger often meant leaving at short notice – once involving a rescue by Ghanaian soldiers and
Aids education seminar in Liberia
evacuation by an American helicopter. Easter 1996 was a particularly tense time, as told in Brian’s book, Mission Liberia. They hid in a cupboard under the stairs for safety when war broke out again. It was a tight squeeze, particularly when their dogs pushed in and competed to be closest to Dorothy. The Knightleys were commissioned as officers in the 1974 Overcomers Session and served in corps ministry at Bridgend, Newport Central and Mexborough. It was 1981 before Brian was able to fulfil his calling to international service – using his experience as a teacher, he became superintendent of Bradley Institute, a mixed secondary school in Zimbabwe. Besides academic success, a number of Bradley’s students became Christians and uniformed Salvationists. Brian also set about forming a band, purchasing some old instruments from Salisbury Citadel and receiving others from visiting overseas Salvationists. The
band went from strength to strength – learning to march, playing for Sunday worship and youth councils and conducting spiritual campaigns at other corps. This ended when Brian and Dorothy returned to England for the sake of their daughter’s further education, tempered by the belief that their work in Africa was unfinished – later realised in leading the work of The Salvation Army in Liberia. The Knightleys retired to Dunstable, enjoying being able to see more of their two sons, their daughter and the extended family: 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and a great-greatgrandchild. However, ‘retirement’ was not a word that Dorothy and Brian understood. They subsequently undertook seven periods of leadership at unofficered corps, including Gloucester, Norwich Citadel and Wick. In response to many requests, Brian also wrote his second book, Zimbabwe Calling. After their final appointment at Wick the couple soldiered at Eaton Bray. Dorothy was active in ladies groups and Brian taught a succession of learners to play instruments. They performed at a carol service he organised shortly before his promotion to Glory last year. Jackson Towah, a young convert and fellow worker, spoke movingly at Brian’s funeral of the couple’s influence on his life. He said: ‘When Liberia descended into civil war in the 1990s, hope was lost for young people. But the Lord sent us two British missionaries with the gospel. ‘The Knightleys came and took away the guns from the hands of conscripted child soldiers and replaced those weapons with the Bible and education. During our war and transition period they turned our most feared murderers into lawyers, medical doctors, judges,
journalists, theologians, bankers and accountants. ‘In March 1991 I returned from exile in the neighbouring Ivory Coast. Later that month I met the Knightleys outside the former British Embassy near Monrovia, inviting folks to come and pray with them in their living room. The Salvation Army was pretty new to Liberian people, but I accepted the invitation and before too long I also accepted Christ. ‘By 1993 it was a fast-growing Christian institution in the country. The Army’s educational system stood at the epicentre of prestigious and bestranking schools in Liberia. ‘We all have our heroes, people who do extraordinary things. Brian Knightley was mine. He will be remembered as a good and decent man, who saw wrong and tried to correct it, saw injustices and dispensed justices, saw suffering and tried to heal it, saw war and tried to stop it. He taught us to have strength in time of trouble, wisdom in time of uncertainty, and sharing in time of happiness. ‘When rebel forces pinned us down at gunpoint on 6 April 1996 he even prayed for those who threatened to kill us in our kitchen. To my surprise, “Missy” [Dorothy] dared to stand between the gun and the dogs. She told them to take whatever they wanted, but no one should harm her dogs! ‘He and Missy taught me and other teenagers to grasp Christian values. They were father and mother figures to everyone they met.’ In his foreword to Mission Liberia, Brian wrote: ‘I hope [this book] will inspire you to attempt the impossible for God. In the midst of a civil war, I believe God enabled us to do exactly that.’ And God certainly did. MAJOR DAWSON LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN NORWICH Salvationist 4 April 2020
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INTERVIEW
Serving those who serve abroad Overseas Services Secretary Major Pam Cameron tells Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts how international service personnel are supported
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ANY Salvationists will not have heard of Avalon in Kent, but it is a place that plays a significant role in the wider Salvation Army world. Avalon is the base for the UKI Territory’s Overseas Services Unit, which supports personnel on international service. The Army acquired the house in 1946 when it became an approved school for girls. Later it was a Social Services training and study centre, then its purpose changed again in 2000 to accommodate officers on international service during their homeland visits. The Overseas Services Unit, which had been based at Territorial Headquarters, moved to Avalon five years later. 12
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Major Pam arrived in 2008 to take charge of the unit after years of service in Australia, Papua New Guinea and at International Headquarters. She explains Avalon’s purpose: ‘Avalon is often described by our guests as their “home away from home”. The nine self-catering flats – or ten, when the small library is included during peak season – provide space and opportunity for them to relax alone or host visiting family and friends, something many of them miss when they are overseas.’ With the exception of a few international appointments, most overseas terms of service last three years, with service in more difficult
locations allowing people to come home for a rest more often. In reality, many international service personnel – officers and non-officers – complete two or more consecutive terms. ‘Whether it is homeland furlough, compassionate leave, business or study, a period of extended transition at the end of a particularly difficult term or returning to the UK and Republic of Ireland to move into an appointment or retirement, Avalon is here to welcome and receive them,’ says Pam. ‘Apart from accommodation, we have room to store a few personal possessions that might be required during furlough. Guests often hurry to the
Major Pam Cameron
Officers staying at Avalon storage room to find their coffee maker, or arrive in summer clothes anxious to find winter woollies. One officer is still living in anticipation of the day we find a way for him to transport his treasured canoe to a suitable place and enjoy a day on the water.’ Accommodation is only part of the territory’s provision for those who serve overseas. Prior to departure the Avalon team tries to guide people through the practical and official processes to ensure a smooth transition to the service territory. There are also opportunities to attend an ‘understanding of cross culture’ day, start language studies and visit Avalon to discuss any areas that might seem daunting. ‘Each person copes with change in their own way, but there are some recurring challenges,’ explains Pam. ‘There are people’s expectations, a change of culture, climate, language or diet to name just a few. For some, there is the additional pressure of living in an area where security is an issue. ‘Everything is a learning curve and it is important to us that our personnel leave
the territory with some tools to help them cope through the all-important time of transition. ‘When visas have been approved, tickets issued and departures and arrivals have come and gone, technology enables regular exchanges between us. It’s always a red letter day when we receive emails and newsletters, sharing the joys, the funny incidents and the blessings as our people transition into their new surroundings. They often share a few concerns and points for prayer as well. For our part, we try to ensure that all those serving overseas receive Army news from the UK and the Republic of Ireland, so that they still feel very much part of the territory even though they are in ministry away from it.’ The Overseas Services Unit is able to give some practical support too. For example, through the financial generosity of colleague officers in this territory, the unit is able to send a Christmas gift to every person overseas as well as their children living with them. And if there is a special personal need, the unit can often offer specific assistance.
‘International service is not all challenge!’ Pam says, reassuringly. ‘The smiles on our friends’ faces tell their own story when they relate a little of the work they are involved in – the sense that they are truly making a difference and their desire to stay and do a little more. Every person who has been on international service has stories to tell; what a book it would create if they were written down!’ At the end of a period of service overseas, whether one term or more, the Avalon team is part of the practical transition home. It provides accommodation and co-ordinates the various appointments that are required as well as a post-assignment crosscultural orientation. The Overseas Services Unit has a special ministry to the territory’s international service personnel. And as its head, Pam has the experience to make sure it is as supportive as possible. ‘I have had the privilege of living in some of those “other” shoes,’ she says. ‘My service at IHQ, in Australia and Papua New Guinea has given me the opportunity to see overseas service from so many different angles. ‘If I can help our personnel for service, keep them in touch with home when they are overseas and then help them during the transition home, I am thankful for the privilege. Being the Overseas Services Secretary in this territory is a really fulfilling role. And as one of my favourite psalms says: “If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast” (139:9 and 10). It’s true. Just ask any of those who have tried it!’ Salvationist 4 April 2020
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HOLY WEEK REFLECTION
Holding on to a piece of bread T
HE apostle John devotes five chapters (13–17) to what happened in the upper room just hours before Jesus was crucified. According to tradition, this room was a familiar and much-loved place for Jesus and his friends. Some think they made it their base whenever they were in Jerusalem. What we are sure of is that this room was the scene of the last supper that Jesus shared with his disciples. It was here that Jesus washed his disciples’ feet, predicted that he would be betrayed, predicted that Peter would deny him and promised the Holy Spirit to them. It was in this room that Jesus told his closest friends that the world would hate them. That must have been hard to take. But it was also where he gave them words of comfort and reassurance, and where he prayed for himself, for them and for all who would come after them. It is also likely that this is the same room where Jesus appeared to his followers after his resurrection and where the promise of the Holy Spirit was later fulfilled, coming to them like fire and wind. That room would have been a special place for Jesus and the disciples. If those walls could only speak! Reading through these chapters in John’s Gospel again I noticed something I had missed before. It’s to do with Judas and the bread that Jesus shared with his disciples. The Message paraphrase puts it this way: ‘As soon as the bread was in [Judas’s] hand, Satan entered him’ (13:27). And, several verses later: ‘Judas, with the piece of bread, left’ (13:30). I try to imagine the atmosphere in the room that night. Jesus had done something for his disciples that they hadn’t seemed able to do for each other – wash the dirt and donkey dung off their feet. This was essential hygiene before a meal and was usually done by a servant. Peter found the whole idea of Jesus doing this for him outrageous, and he said so: ‘You’re not going to wash my feet – ever!’ (13:8 MSG).
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Jesus then began to speak in great depth with his disciples after which John informs us that Jesus was ‘visibly upset’ (13:21 MSG). Then Jesus took a piece of bread, dipped it in oil and passed it to Judas. Something happened to Judas the very moment he took the bread from Jesus’ hand: Satan entered him. What were intensely emotional and deeply spiritual moments for everyone else in the room became, for Judas, a catalyst for catastrophe. Jesus revealed that he knew Judas intended to betray him. Judas, it seems, immediately became irritated and anxious – and he walked out. But John gives us a seemingly insignificant detail about that moment. When he stormed out of the room, he took the piece of bread with him: ‘Judas, with the piece of bread, left’ (13:30 MSG). I wonder why Judas took the bread with him. I would have expected him to screw it up in his hand to hide it, throw it on the floor in anger, hurl it against the wall or even throw it at one of the disciples. But he took it with him. Deep in his heart Judas must have realised the gravity of the situation. He had spent three years with Jesus and had forged close bonds of love and friendship with him and the other 11 disciples. He had heard Jesus set out clearly enough who he was and what he had come to do. And he knew only too well what was about to happen to Jesus – knew what the dark side of his heart had devised. There must have been a war in his soul when Satan entered him. So why did he take the piece of bread with him? Could it be that, in spite of leaving the table with evil in his heart, in spite of just having had his feet washed by Jesus, and even though he had shared in a deeply religious celebration meal, he needed to hold on to something that kept him in touch with Jesus? Did he feel a deep need to keep, for a few hours at least, a tenuous link with three years of unforgettable experiences, and more particularly with the moving and
by Commissioner Keith Banks emotionally charged moments of which he had just been a part? It is always a sad moment when someone who has been close to Jesus, who has walked daily with him and experienced his life-changing power, decides to leave the table. I have met people like that in the course of my ministry. But I can’t recall meeting anyone who left the table without their piece of bread. People who walk away from the Lord, who lose their faith and trash their trust, always seem to carry that piece of bread with them. It might be the memory of their first step of faith, the recollection of a fellow believer who greatly influenced them, the thought of the love found in a supportive fellowship, the fulfilment in playing in an Army band, singing with the songsters or joining in a challenging congregational song. It’s a fairly safe assumption that some people reading these words will be in that position. There will be former Christians, some of whom served the Lord in the Army, who still hold on to their piece of bread. It may be a bit old and stale now, but they haven’t let it go. It is a link with fulfilling times of faith; it stirs memories and it awakens a longing in the heart for what once was a vital and meaningful relationship with the Lord. If that is you, a personal word from me: Unlike Judas, you can come back to the table. The Lord is there waiting for you, and he has fresh bread to share. In fact he who is the Bread of Life wants to share himself with you again. It takes courage to retrace one’s steps but the Lord waits for you. There is no condemnation on his lips, no harsh word of censure. He simply wants to welcome you back.
COMMISSIONER BANKS LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN INVERKIP Salvationist 4 April 2020
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MORE REAR-M MIR RRO OR
Oktavia Wilkens
A SILENT SWEDISH RHAPSODY
General John Larsson (Retired) shares fascinating glimpses of the early Army – 1890-1912
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ILLIAM Booth’s eagle eyes didn’t miss much. In January 1894 he was conducting a mammoth rally in Stockholm, Sweden. As seekers were streaming to the mercy seat, he noticed there was a profoundly deaf woman in the congregation. ‘Who can show her the way?’ he enquired. Soon, Captain Oktavia Wilkens, a former sign-language teacher, was at her side. Not long afterwards they knelt together at the cross where Captain Wilkens showed the woman the way into the Kingdom by signing with her hands. The next day the woman signed to her deaf friends: ‘I have met a woman “priest” with a peculiar hat, who speaks our language wonderfully well.’ Her friends wanted to meet this strange ‘priest’, so Oktavia Wilkens held a sign-language meeting for them. And with that meeting the first corps for the deaf was launched. This ministry to deaf and speechimpaired people soon spread throughout the country under the leadership of Captain Wilkens. These corps had reading rooms where members could meet in the daytime. No other church offered a similar ministry, and the commencement of this work was to prove a turning point for the Army’s acceptance in Sweden. The Army had reached Sweden 12 years before, when the work began under the leadership of Swedish Commissioner Hanna Ouchterlony. Of all the continental countries, Sweden proved the best fit for The Salvation Army, and it grew to become the second largest Army territory in the world. 16
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Fritz Pousette During the early years, despite occasional local opposition, the Army met with a remarkably warm response from ordinary people. The leading classes and civic authorities remained cool towards the Movement, but the emergence of work among Sweden’s many thousands of deaf people struck a chord even with them – and more so when the work widened to include blind people. It was the royal household of Sweden’s King Oscar II that set the new tone of approval, and it was Fritz Pousette, a blind, deaf and speechimpaired Salvationist, who inspired the turning of the tide. Fritz Pousette was already deaf by the age of one but retained sufficient sight as a child to train as a carpenter. In his teens he set up business. Timber dealers could not cheat him, for he could determine the nature and quality of any wood by biting, smelling and
even licking it. Through a chance meeting with Oktavia Wilkens he became a Salvationist, and from then on his braille Bible was never absent from his bench. He radiated love for God and love for life. The Crown Prince was so impressed with Fritz and his work that he commissioned an escritoire for the palace. King Oscar followed through with a substantial donation to the Self-Denial fund. And when he later gifted land that became an Army woodyard, employing 10,000 men each year, he set the ultimate royal seal on the Army’s work. ‘Taking their tone from the king,’ reports historian Richard Collier in The General Next To God, ‘officers of the Swedish Army now cracked into parade-ground salutes each time Booth’s warriors passed on the street.’ This royal admiration for Fritz Pousette was shared by all who knew him. Watching him giving his testimony was an unforgettable experience. Scanning his braille Bible with one hand, he would tap his words into the hand of a translator with the other. The interpreter would turn his words into sign language and, if blind persons were present, also into speech. It was always heart-stirring, and never more so than when, at his 75th birthday celebrations, Pousette took as his theme the classic Swedish hymn, ‘Thank You, Lord, For All Your Goodness’ (SASB 395). As he communicated his gratitude to God, everyone recognised that not only his words but also his whole life was a silent rhapsody of praise to his Lord.
FEATURE I Self-isolation
JUST KEEP SWIMMING! DIARY OF SELF-ISOLATION WEEK 1 Major Karen Sandford (Harlow) gives a day-by-day account of family life in a time of quarantine
Three days before isolation: Ryan, Chris, Karen, Megan (Ryan’s fiancée), Nathan, Joel
DAY 1 Tuesday 17 March
DAY 3 Thursday 19 March
DAY 5 Saturday 21 March
My husband, Chris, has been coughing for a few days but today was different somehow. We decided he should stay at home. I went to the hall to make plans with our centre co-ordinator. We are the church that helps – the ones who go into difficult situations, who feel the fear but do it anyway. But this is a potentially lethal disease. The decision was made to cancel activities while we awaited guidance. Within a few hours our family was in self-isolation, and Chris was coughing and spluttering and feeling worse. Apart from my mild asthma we are all healthy but I am a little anxious for all that is unknown. And as much as the thought of being incarcerated in ‘Testosterone Towers’ with four grown men fills me with dread, I realise that others face the future alone. So tonight I’m praying.
We are all feeling a bit flat – partly due to Chris collapsing in the night (he’s fine) and partly because of yesterday’s news about exams. Work was quite consuming: lots of questions, conversations and decisions to make. I’m grateful for a team who are proactive, offer a listening ear and deliver goodies. Nathan received good news from his chosen university. I made quite a lot of noise. I also relaxed social distancing for a few seconds. It was good to have something to celebrate. We played uplifting songs during the noon call to prayer, and Psalm 46 was on my mind. God, an ever-present help in times of trouble. Not just a concept for us, but reality.
Today has been hard, but largely uneventful. We’re struggling and getting on one another’s nerves. Chris is getting stronger, but his bursts of energy are short-lived. It’s a relief that he’s improving, but I think recovery could be a long road. We have a few more coughs in the household, and there’s the uncertainty of whether it’s a cold, coronavirus or just that we’re tired from the situation.
DAY 4 Friday 20 March
Chris is feeling a little better today. He spent half an hour this morning chatting, checking things were organised and generally making a nuisance of himself. I convened a family meeting. We agreed lots There is an ‘all hands on deck’ vibe in our of things: binge watching was allowed but not house. There’s also the reality that most of in the main living room; communal TV was to be agreed by the majority, but Mum would us will get this illness. I’ve spent the last few years coming to have the final word. Everyone was happy to terms with, and learning to manage, the cook. We have enough for ten days without having to get creative – but we decided to get illnesses I have. There are times when I’ve felt weak or ‘less than’. Over the past few creative first, before the novelty wore off. Mum would put craft activities together (this days I’ve realised I have a whole new skill set: I’ve learnt to live day-by-day. I give was hilarious, apparently). Daisy, our dog, myself permission to practise self-care and needed walking, so there would be a rota. encourage others to do the same. That’s Today’s announcement about students not enabled me greatly this week, and I’m quite sitting exams was significant, as one of my sons is doing his A-levels and another teaches. proud of, and a little amazed by, all I’ve done. Chris has been quite poorly today. Tempers were high for a few moments. I discovered he’d been working on a funeral for next week. He received a stern reprimand. One by one we are all having difficult days and it’s been hard not to react badly. Extra Highlights of the day included a phone chat with my mum, a bird singing its heart out and TLC and understanding have been required – also distraction and space. craft supplies from friends.
DAY 2 Wednesday 18 March
DAY 6 Sunday 22 March I woke up to blue skies and sunshine, a cup of Earl Grey and a fist-bump from my eldest son. It’s been a strange Mother’s Day, but amid the weirdness I realised how blessed I am to be with my family. Highlights were watching the film What We Did On Our Holiday, having a roast dinner cooked for me and hearing about what others have been up to in self-isolation. People have been creative and innovative, especially about church. I’m really proud of what our corps has done today.
DAY 7 Monday 23 March Over the past few days I’ve had waves of feeling great and poorly. I’ve increased my asthma inhalers as a precaution, but I’m wondering if my immune system has ramped up a gear since I’ve been cold-water swimming. Maybe this is coronavirus but I only have mild symptoms. We shall see. Testosterone Towers is a hive of activity: one is taking conference calls, one is chatting to his girlfriend, one is recovering, with new achievements every day, and one has joined the multitude of people unsure whether they will be paid because they are on a zero-hour contract. Chris longs to be ‘out there helping people’. That day will come. I’m grateful that there is nowhere we go – or don’t go – where God is not with us. Salvationist 4 April 2020
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BIBLE STUDY
Man of sorrows Major Darren Shaw explores how strength can be found in weakness ISAIAH 53
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F you could have any superpower, what would it be, and why? This question has no doubt been asked thousands of times during job interviews. (For the record, my choice would be teleportation.) I wonder if anyone has answered ‘sorrow’. In Isaiah 53 we find a prophetic poem about a ‘man of sorrows’ (v3 New Living Translation) – a suffering servant whose superpowers are anguish and affliction. He is so familiar with grief and pain that he takes on the collective suffering of his people, becoming the very embodiment of their guilt and woundedness. The suffering servant is an unexpected kind of hero. Disfigured and vulnerable, with no obvious appeal, what could possibly qualify him to bear the weight of a nation’s affliction? The ‘arm of the Lord’ (v1) – God’s power – is being revealed in someone who shows all the signs of being weak and downtrodden. Surely, in times of trouble, people need a superman, not a ‘sorrow man’! People
Through the week with Salvationist – a devotional thought for each day by Major Freda Benneyworth
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need someone who is too powerful to have ever been troubled by suffering – someone who is invulnerable, not someone who seems to be the very definition of vulnerability. QUESTIONS might vulnerability be a strength rather than a weakness? O What is this man of sorrow’s secret identity? O How
To many Christians, the obvious answer to the latter is Jesus. The Early Church certainly thought this but many commentators point out that this wouldn’t have been the author’s original intent. In the context of their contemporary culture, Isaiah’s prophecy would have meant something else to his audience. QUESTIONS O How might Isaiah’s first audience, and subsequent generations, have interpreted the man of sorrows and his significance? O What light might Isaiah 49 shine on this?
Just as the intervening generations would have, Jesus’ disciples had a certain idea what Isaiah was talking about. After Jesus’ death and resurrection, however, they reread and re-embraced the Scriptures to form a new understanding of what the text meant in light of recent events. Jesus explained it to some disciples on the road to Emmaus (see Luke 24:25–27). Isaiah 53 became a core part of Church teaching (see Acts 8:30–33; 1 Peter 2:22). Jesus was the ultimate sorrow man. He took on everyone’s brokenness and transformed it into wholeness. ‘Peace’ in verse 5 of our study passage is the Hebrew word shalom – a sense of wholeness and well-being. QUESTION O What do verses 4 and 5 tell you about why bearing the suffering of others can be powerful? The centuries that passed between Isaiah and Jesus brought much tribulation to God’s people. They suffered exile,
SUNDAY
MONDAY
TUESDAY
Hear the shout! The King is coming!/ See the Christ comes riding by;/ Lift your palms in joyous welcome,/ Wave them joyfully on high./ See he comes in peace and glory,/ With his rightful claim as King;/ Raise your voices to acclaim him,/ Let your own ‘Hosanna!’ ring. (SASB 140)
He was despised and rejected Man of sorrows! what a name/ by mankind, a man of For the Son of God, who came/ suffering and familiar with Ruined sinners to reclaim;/ pain… But he was pierced for Hallelujah! What a Saviour!/ our transgressions, he was Bearing shame and scoffing crushed for our iniquities; the rude,/ In my place condemned punishment that brought he stood,/ Sealed my us peace was on him, pardon with his Prayer and by his wounds blood;/ Loving Lord, in a we are healed. Hallelujah! week when we consider the (Isaiah 53:3, 5) What a hostility, betrayal, denial and torture you endured, we see again Saviour! (SASB 183) the most beautiful act of amazing grace and redeeming love. Man of sorrows, through your suffering you became our risen Lord.
persecution, desecration and destruction at the hands of powerful oppressors. Time and time again, their cultural and religious identity was under threat, not to mention their lives and livelihoods. QUESTIONS O Can you see how the plight of God’s people could be reflected in verses 6 to 9? O What might some of these phrases mean if they were referring to a nation instead of an individual? If we see only Jesus in Isaiah’s words, we never entertain the thought that God has had many suffering servants over the years. How many people suffered on behalf of others during the difficult times of exile and beyond? How many heroes of the faith poured themselves out on behalf of others in order to bring about restoration? How many still do? Jesus is the ultimate sin-beating, death-shattering, life-winning, wholeness-bringing sorrow man, but his predecessors and his followers have
also laid themselves low for the cause of God’s Kingdom. In her song ‘Out Is Through’, Alanis Morissette wrote ‘The only way out is through’. Why a sorrow man and not a superman? Perhaps it’s because we can’t solve the problem of suffering by fighting it, or denying it, or finding ways around it. Perhaps going through it is the only way to reach what’s on the other side. QUESTIONS O What insights do verses 10 to 12 give into what might be found on the other side of suffering? O How does this compare with Romans 5:3–5, Philippians 2:8–11 and 1 Peter 5:9–11? O In a suffering and broken world, what do these verses say to us? I wonder what role Christians can play in helping others navigate the road marked with suffering. Is there a case to be made for being ‘sorrow men and women’, acquainted with grief or
familiar with pain, ready to bear each other’s burdens? (See Romans 12:15; Galatians 6:2.) Or should we sweep all signs of anguish under the denial-andsmile carpet? Jesus is fully divine. He is also fully human. As the ultimate ‘sorrow man’, Jesus was not superhuman but truly human – limited, frail, vulnerable and glorious. He showed us that the way to bring wholeness is to embrace brokenness. He proved that there is strength in weakness. I might change my mind about which superpower I’d choose.
MAJOR SHAW IS CORPS OFFICER, MALTBY AND DINNINGTON
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
‘You will all fall away,’ Jesus told them… Peter declared, ‘Even if all fall away, I will not.’ ‘Truly I tell you,’ Jesus answered, ‘today – yes, tonight – before the cock crows twice you yourself will disown me three times.’ But Peter insisted emphatically, ‘Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.’ And all the others said the same. (Mark 14:27, 29–31)
There in the garden of tears,/ My heavy load he chose to bear;/ His heart with sorrow was torn,/ ‘Yet not my will but yours,’ he said./ This is our God, the Servant King,/ He calls us now to follow him,/ To bring our lives as a daily offering/ Of worship to the Servant King. (SASB 165)
It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon… Jesus called out with a loud voice, ‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.’ When he had said this, he breathed his last. The centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God and said, ‘Surely this was a righteous man.’ (Luke 23:44, 46 and 47)
On the mount of crucifixion/ Fountains opened deep and wide;/ Through the floodgates of God’s mercy/ Flowed a vast and gracious tide./ Grace and love, like mighty rivers,/ Poured incessant from above,/ And Heaven’s peace and perfect justice/ Kissed a guilty world in love. (SASB 169)
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NEW COMMITMENTS
ARMÁDA SPÁSY DOVER: Stefan Horvath was welcomed as an adherent member by Pioneer Leader David Frater, bringing the number of members in this new plant to 20. – KB
CWMBRAN: Joseph Boor was enrolled as a junior soldier by his grandparents, Majors Carol and Doug Back (Leighton Buzzard). Family and friends gathered to support him on the start of his discipleship journey. – SA 20
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TENBY: June Hitch was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Major David Morgans. June has been attending for about a year and was recently approached about adherent membership. Also pictured are Recruiting Sergeant Rosemary Moreton and Colour Sergeant Les Moreton. – DM
HEMEL HEMPSTEAD: Catherine Mapfumo was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Major Sarah Murray. After worshipping at another church for a time, Catherine felt the Lord leading her back to the corps to become an adherent member. Catherine chose the song ‘All I Once Held Dear’ (SASB 565) as her testimony. Also pictured is Corps Treasurer Jeremy Harkcom. – MH
LETTERS
POET’S CORNER A PRAYER FOR LENT AND SPRINGTIME LORD of green and growing spring – Whose gentle power Waylays us in an unexpected flower – Today we bring Garlands of mingled hope and fear; But you are here, Though fears prevail and hopes are few: God of springtime, make us new.
SOUP, GLORIOUS SOUP! THIS terrible coronavirus pandemic hit us and what did I do? I made soup. A thick, delicious, vegetable stew with a pinch of chilli. I called a friend from the corps to see how they were coping and she had made soup too. What is it about soup? It’s nourishing, quick to make, easy to eat, tasty, warming and basically makes you feel better. For the first time in my life, I am not allowed to go to the meetings, which was frightening at first. Then the phone rang and Major Gethin Thomas shared Scripture and prayers over the telephone. It was just like my homemade soup: so comforting. Keep safe folks. Jill Jones Pentre
Christ of sad and solemn Lent, We watch you go Towards a cruel trial whose end we know; And so present New wreaths of joy to crown your pain: For you will reign. Such is our faith – so strangely true: God of springtime, make us new. Almighty Victor, Easter King – Who played and won, And proved that love sustains the stars and sun – We dare to bring Our fragile lives for grace to fill With glad goodwill; And speak, in simplest love, with you. God of springtime, make us new. From A Garland For The Passion by John Coutts
AND ON SUNDAY HE FEASTED
A CURE FOR SLEEPLESS NIGHTS
IN response to the letter ‘Counting down the days...’ (Salvationist 21 March), I was taught many years ago that Lent begins on Ash Wednesday and lasts for six and a half weeks. Lent itself only lasts for 40 days, and is a time to remember the 40 days and nights that Jesus spent in the wilderness without food being tempted by the Devil. The last day of Lent is Easter Saturday. The author of the letter answered his own question when he asked if he could have Saturday or Sunday off, as Sundays do not count in the Lent calculations. David Helm Thornaby
WAKING up in the middle of the night and lying sleepless for hours in the midst of this pandemic? Instead of fretting and worrying, sing songs and choruses over in your head. Two old choruses from my childhood come to mind. ‘With Christ In The Vessel, We Can Smile At The Storm’, from my days in the juniors. We sang it with gusto and when we got to the refrain ‘sailing, sailing home’, we would link arms and sway. I grew up in Guernsey, so we could even look out the window and see the sea. I have certainly experienced many ‘rough seas’ on my journey through life. I have been so glad to know that Jesus is with me, and he has given me the grace to weather the storm and smile again. The other chorus is ‘My Lord Knows The Way Through The Wilderness’. These days are certainly like a wilderness experience, with no charted way through. We could so easily be fearful and downcast, as many understandably are. But I remember the wanderings of the children of Israel through the wilderness. God was with them, brought them through and met their needs. He is with us. We must trust him to bring us through. So next time you have a sleepless night, sing some favourite songs or choruses and replace fear with faith! Barbara Lyne Major Bournemouth Salvationist 4 April 2020
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
ARMY PEOPLE
TRIBUTES
WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Emerald (55th) O Majors Robert and Valerie Hart (17 April) Golden O Jack and Valerie Spowart, Bo’ness (4 April)
ANTHONY MYATT, BIRKENHEAD
RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Colonel Keith Wylie (80 on 16 April) BEREAVED O Major Nicholas Cotterill, Beccles with Diss, of his father Alfred O Territorial Envoy Alison Day, Norwich Thorpe St Andrew, of her mother Greta Julia Parr O Vivien King, Reading Central, and Vaughan King of their mother Major Doreen King PROMOTED TO GLORY O Colonel Jean Gauntlett from Fair Haven care home, Bournemouth, on 17 March O S/Reservist Ruby Nesbitt, Lurgan O Edith Taylor, Abertillery O Major John Mullett from Lyndon House care home, Sandridge, on 17 March O Cynthia Bridle, Belfast Citadel O Geoff Platt, Newcastle City Temple
WHAT’S ON LET THERE BE PRAISE O Salvation Brass on 1 April from 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm on kitchener. faithfm.org O South London Fellowship Band on 8 April from 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm on kitchener.faithfm.org Previous broadcasts are available on citadelpromotions.co.uk, salvoaudio.com and salvos.com/ tomquick
Please note that soldiers’ and adherent members’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes. Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email address as this could delay publication. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk
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Salvationist 4 April 2020
TONY was a hardworking soldier and Cameo club member. He spent most of his life in the military, where he learnt to play the drums, and would eagerly play with the band on Sundays when needed. After leaving the military he became the owner of a newsagent in Pensby, Wirral. There he linked up with the Army when Salvationists invited the family to the corps. Tony and his wife, Jean, moved to Barrow and attended the corps there for a while. In the 1980s they returned to Birkenhead and Tony became a bus driver; his ministry blossomed as he spoke to people who got on his buses. He also helped lead short Army services at nursing homes. In later years Tony developed Alzheimer’s disease but he would still bring Anthony, his youngest son with learning disabilities, to the lunch and Shine clubs. He is greatly missed by all, especially Jean, and his children Dave, Mike and Anthony. God bless Tony, good and faithful servant! – AT
MARGARET LENNOX, GATESHEAD MARGARET was born in 1930. She was raised as a Methodist, but a friend took her to the Army youth club, where she met Dick, a young man she thought was rather handsome. He sent her a note saying he would like to see more of her if she would like to come to the Army. She did, and they married in 1951. Margaret did not like the limelight but was a wise counsellor to many and fully supported Dick in all his Army duties. On retirement she helped at the lunch club and in many other ways behind the scenes. Until the past few years, Margaret was active and
independent. Dementia restricted what she could do, but her faith in the Lord never wavered even when her memory failed her. She was a faithful witness to all in her sheltered accommodation. – MD
MARGARET HATTON, STAPLE HILL BORN in 1927, Margaret lost her mother at 20 months and was cared for by family relatives. Margaret’s adoptive parents introduced her to the Army at Felix Road. In 1945, Margaret met and married a young sailor, Tom. They had a long, happy marriage of more than 54 years. They had six children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Margaret loved them all and was proud of their achievements. After retirement, Margaret and Tom went to a concert at Staple Hill in 1991. They went to the meeting the following Sunday morning, and continued to attend regularly. Margaret enjoyed being part of the over-60 club, and they both became adherent members in 1992. Margaret suffered much sorrow in her life, but her strength of mind and character and her love and concern for others saw her through. She is remembered as a good friend and neighbour, who cared for and loved others. She is missed by her family and the corps. – VW
JOSHUA CLIFFORD, COVENTRY CITY JOSHUA was a fourth-generation Salvationist, who loved the Lord and described himself as a follower of Jesus. He was born with heart problems and given a poor diagnosis, but many surgeries and hospital stays later he proved the
ENGAGEMENTS All engagements have been postponed until further notice
doctors wrong and grew into a bright, happy and brave boy. Joshua loved attending the Army. He became a junior soldier and grew in his strength of character and love for God, before later becoming a senior soldier. He suffered difficulties with his poor health but always wore a smile and never complained. Even at his most ill he always asked about others. At 19, Josh was unable to
fight infection and received his promotion to Glory. A brave soldier of Christ, his short life touched many people, some of whom joined approximately three hundred family members, friends and colleagues from college at his thanksgiving service. Josh is missed by them all, but they are all the richer for having known this brave young follower of Jesus. – VS
CORRECTION The tribute to Major Richard Jones (14 March issue, page 21) incorrectly stated that his degree was in education. Richard gained a BSc (Hons) in chemistry and a postgraduate certificate in education. Salvationist apologises for this error.
CORONAVIRUS UPDATE This update, issued by Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant, is correct as of 3 pm on 30 March Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, The Salvation Army’s response has been based on three key principles: O We will follow the advice of the relevant governments and public health authorities O We will focus on ‘mission critical’ activities O We will adapt our response to the pandemic as the situation develops PEOPLE The UK government has asked for the Army’s help to promote the message, ‘Stay Home, Protect the NHS, Save Lives’. Campaign materials are available from campaignresources.phe.gov.uk. Officers and many of our staff have ‘key worker’ status as they are providing vital social care functions or have roles that ensure our services can keep running. Travel to and from their places of work is allowed. Most officers and employees are able to work from home, making use of video conferencing facilities when necessary. Divisional triage teams are beginning to match staff who have opted for voluntary deployment with mission critical roles. The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme enables employers to continue paying part of the salary of ‘furloughed workers’ who would otherwise be laid off. This will be a last resort for The Salvation Army once all other options have been exhausted. PROPERTY Corps halls should not be open for any activity other than the provision of food banks, takeaway food, clothing and sleeping bags according to guidelines about social distancing. If there are contracted services, such as Employment Plus or child contact centres, discussions should be held with the relevant contracting authority and a decision to remain open agreed with the divisional commander. All charity shops are closed until further notice. All Salvation Army properties must display a phone
contact number and ensure callers are responded to as quickly as possible. MISSION The Army is supporting the YourNeighbour initiative that resources churches to be good neighbours in communities across the UK. See yourneighbour.org. O The following activities are essential and are continuing to operate: Lifehouses, night shelters, care homes, safe houses for victims of human trafficking and modern slavery – including the network of drivers to transfer people to and from safe houses. The provision of food or drink to people experiencing homelessness is exempt from government restrictions. O THQ has been in discussions with the government, other churches and charities about food bank provisions. Existing suppliers and major supermarkets and wholesalers have been approached to explore ways in which they can support. Corps should be connected into their community’s response. O THQ has drafted a letter for Army personnel to share with supermarkets and other retailers if they are challenged about buying supplies for food parcels and basic care packages. It can be also used when travelling on public transport for essential Salvation Army business. O Salvationists and everyone linked to the Army are encouraged to respond to national and local government requests for support, such as volunteering to help people unable to leave their homes. O
OTHER NEWS MEDICAL: Some officers and staff have been asked by the NHS to return to work as doctors and nurses. NHS England has approached the Army about Operation Nightingale and the need for volunteers to help staff emergency hospitals. CANCELLATIONS AND POSTPONEMENTS: O Pioneer Gathering, 4–7 May – there may be a webinar version O Territorial Leaders Conference, 11–14 May – postponed O Debt Advice and Early Years Best Practice, 18 and 19 June – cancelled O Key information is on the territorial website: salvationarmy.org.uk/ coronavirus-and-internal-information
Salvationist 4 April 2020
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‘ All kinds of people attend, join, volunteer with or work for The Salvation Army. We’ve asked some to tell us about themselves. This week… KEVIN ELLIOTT (Regional Learning and Development Officer, SISTAD) How did you first come into contact with the Army? As far as I know, my great-grandmother was a Salvationist at Burnley. What made you want to work for the Army? I was a teacher in a large college when the opportunity to work at William Booth College became available, so I applied. What is the most interesting thing about your role? The many people I meet from across the territory. I also enjoy the opportunity to study and put what I have learnt into action. … and the most frustrating? I don’t have enough time to spend on individual issues. I’m often chasing my tail and rushing from one thing to the next. What one thing would you change about the Army? People to listen more and practise listening. What is your favourite kind of holiday? Going to see my son and daughter-inlaw, Al and Akiko, in Japan with my wife, Heather, and other son, Matthew.
The Lord is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does. The Lord is near to all who call on him (Psalm 145:17 and 18)
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If you could be in a film, which would it be and what character would you play? I’d want to be a character that didn’t have too many lines to learn. Or perhaps Sherlock Holmes – I’ve read all the books. If you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose and why? I’d like to meet someone who did lots of things really well and see how they worked, so probably Leonardo da Vinci – although I’d need to learn Italian first! If you were to create a slogan for your life, what would it be? Shut up and listen! What sport would you compete in if you were in the Olympics? Something not too energetic. Is Trivial Pursuit an Olympic sport? If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be? Coffee. What do you do in your spare time? Watch programmes on BBC Four, scroll through Twitter, read books and watch films and series on Netflix. I have also taken up running in the past couple of months. If you could bring back any fashion trend, what would it be? None – they’re trends for a reason. What is your favourite Bible passage? At the moment, Psalm 145, which I’ve been reading recently. Which Bible figure would you like to meet and what would you ask them? King David, I think. I’d ask him about his inspirations. (This is my sixth go at answering this question.)
What is your favourite hymn or worship song? Usually the last one I was singing. Today it’s ‘Jesus, Be The Centre’ (SASB 373). If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be? Queues. If you had to be handcuffed to one person for a day, who would it be? Barack Obama. He seems like an interesting man. If you could invent a gadget, what would it be? A machine that automatically locates my music glasses when I need them. My friends pass them around after me. Do you have any hidden talents? No, mine are all on show – that’s it, folks, unless you count double-jointed thumbs? Which book (apart from the Bible) would you want on a desert island? All the Sherlock Holmes books. If you had a ‘theme song’ that played whenever you walked into a room, what would it be? That would drive me insane. I would constantly be apologising. Perhaps a few bars from the Z Cars theme tune. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? Shut up and listen (obviously). What is the most valuable thing you possess? My laptop is pretty good. Something interesting you might want people to know about you is… I make jam from the fruit in my garden.
