Salvationist 4 February 2023

A selfdenial life

HAVE you heard the one about the bloke who built his house on the sand? Years later, we still sing about him, as if the poor guy hadn’t been through enough.

You’ve also probably heard of the Self-Denial Appeal, which begins this weekend. Started by William Booth in 1886, it calls for Salvationists to deny themselves something this month so they can support the Army’s mission.

One thing you’ve definitely heard of is the cost of living crisis, which is affecting us all in one way or another. How is it possible to give sacrifically and help others regardless of our circumstances? There are no easy answers, you’ll read across the page. You’ll also read on pages 8 to 11 of ways you might be able to give on a day-to-day basis. That might be skipping a coffee. It might be cycling instead of taking the bus.

However you give, it’s not the size of the offering that matters, but how it’s intended. ‘If ye wouldst be my disciple,/ An easy road you may not see,’ says a songster piece from 1982 you may not have heard. ‘If you wouldst be my disciple,/ A self-denial life for thee!’

Submitted in a spirit of honouring God, your life, time and talents can make a difference to his Kingdom-building work. They can help bring others to a stable foundation of faith – and a hope for the future that’s rock solid.

IVAN RADFORD MANAGING EDITOR

MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Simon Hope, George Tanton, Lyn Woods, Major Margaret Bovey

ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight, Louise Phillips

PROOFREADER Chris Horne

CONTACT US 020 7367 4890 (main) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

ADVERTISING advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk

DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66–78 Denington Road, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 / subscriptions@satcol.org

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS

From the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated

FOUNDER William Booth

GENERAL Brian Peddle

TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

Commissioner Anthony Cotterill

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS

101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN 0845 634 0101

The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland is SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland is CHY6399.

WILLIAM BOOTH ON FAITH

in a crisis

HOW do we continue to Love God and Love Others, even when our own personal needs are being as squeezed as those we’re seeking to help? Let’s be honest: there are no easy answers.

However, we can see from the example of Macedonian churches in 2 Corinthians 8 that it is possible. Although they were being personally squeezed, by what is simply described as ‘pressure’, their above-and-beyond response was nothing short of miraculous, given their own financial circumstances.

‘Now, friends, I want to report on the surprising and generous ways in which God is working in the churches in Macedonia province. Fierce troubles came down on the people of those churches, pushing them to the very limit. The trial exposed their true colours: they were incredibly happy, though desperately poor. The pressure triggered something totally unexpected: an outpouring of pure and generous gifts. I was there and saw it for myself. They gave offerings of whatever they could –far more than they could afford! –pleading for the privilege of helping out in the relief of poor Christians’ (2 Corinthians 8:1–4 MSG).

Could the current cost of living crisis be described as ‘fierce troubles’ pushing communities and individuals to their limits? It’s unlikely that this will be read by a wide Macedonian readership, but perhaps a reasonable question to pose is: how were those Christians, described as being ‘desperately poor’, found pleading for the privilege of helping out in the relief of other poor Christians?

The Macedonian churches’ miraculous act of generosity was all about giving with a supernatural grace and so was not about getting at all. On the contrary, they seemed to have found a deep, God-given joy in bravely looking beyond self-interest and their comfort zones, digging deep and finding a powerfully outward-facing purpose in loving God and loving others. It seems that the ‘loving others’ bit didn’t fall to the wayside when it required some sort of selfless, sacrificial giving; rather, it appears to have been the miraculous divine catalyst to giving generously.

Proverbs 11:14 says: ‘Where there is no guidance the people fall, but in an abundance of counsellors there is victory’ (New American Standard Bible). Could this verse remind us that our

REFLECT AND RESPOND

In helping others locally, what other churches or organisations can you work with in your community?

Read Mark 12:41–44. How much pressure do we place on ourselves to measure giving with numbers?

Read the chorus to ‘Jesus, with What Gladness I Can Truly Sing’ (SASB 597). How can you offer your life, time and talents to God?

personal response does not require an individualistic, non-collaborative response? Quite the contrary: as you pray for guidance, what other families or friends within your community are wanting to make a genuine, outwardfacing response and support others during this cost of living crisis? Is it possible that God is calling you to be the glue that pulls together several individuals or groups to make a unified response in your community?

Responding to any social emergency or crisis is best done in tandem – at a minimum – and at best as an informed and unified collective partnership.

Challenging as the fierce troubles might be, such biblical collaboration can have a potent impact regardless of the situation. Take courage, pray and have an open heart.

Continuing a series of topical reflections, Tony Daniels considers how we can love others in difficult times

Giving

seconds with...

Ted Brooks

Herald, Shiremoor

‘Joy is one of my favourite words’

As she retires, Assistant Secretary for Spiritual Life Development Major Christine Kingscott shares her testimony

IFIRST came to the Army when I was about seven. I was invited along from an open-air meeting and went to Sunday school. Although I was about seven and a half when I made the decision to follow Christ, it was when I was 16 – and thinking about senior soldiership – that I really felt the presence of God.

helped me address is loneliness. We were stationed at Ireland DHQ during the Covid-19 pandemic and we couldn’t come home, we couldn’t see loved ones. We were visiting people on their doorsteps, offering support and making sure they were OK. It was hard. But the biggest thing was knowing that I wasn’t alone – God was with us. He was there.

What made you want to become a soldier?

The influence of my Salvationist parents. I saw in them what it truly meant to be a soldier in God’s Army.

If you had a slogan for your life, what would it be?

Never mind, go on!

What is your favourite Bible passage?

Romans 8:37–39 (Good News Bible):

‘In all these things we have complete victory through him who loved us! For I am certain that nothing can separate us from his love...’

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘I Know Thee Who Thou Art’ (SASB 79).

If you had to be handcuffed to one person for a day, who would it be? Sir David Attenborough. With all his knowledge of the planet, I would have loads of questions for him.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

My dad said to me on numerous occasions: ‘Keep your powder dry and remember who you belong to.’

What is something interesting that people might not know about you?

I was the musical director of Backworth Male Voice Choir for three years. During that time the choir took part in the 2012 film Song for Marion, featuring Terence Stamp and Vanessa Redgrave.

As a child, you can just see God as somebody who’s far away. You hear stories of judgement and things like that. But as I’ve grown in my relationship with God, I’ve come to know him very personally. He’s actually living inside me, and my faith has deepened.

I am grateful to God for my lovely family and lovely grandchildren, and for being my faithful God throughout many times when maybe it’s not been so certain.

As I retire, I know God is going to keep working in my life. One of the things I’m looking forward to is having more time to read, maybe delving into some of those harder, more theological books. Things are going to be different, but it really is just trusting him for the future

d k keeps you know, that was lan, because those skills useful time

I was called to officership not much older than 16. I’d always wanted to be a nurse. So I said to God, ‘If you let me do my best, I’ll think about it.’ Once I’d qualified, that call hadn’t gone away –I found that God just keeps nagging! I realised that, you know, that was part of God’s plan, because those skills have kicked in and been useful time and time again.

and seeing what he has to offer. After nearl ly 40 years f of miiniistry, I’ll l wakke up and ask , ‘What will I do?’ But I know God will be in that.

I like Proverbs 3:5: ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart.’ Over time, I’ve really realised what it means to trust in him. You feel his presence, you live in it. I can’t describe it, but it is a sense of joy. Joy is one of my favourite words – it’s so much more than happiness, because it’s about something that bubbles away inside you. It doesn’t mean you’re always happy. You may be going through difficult times, but there is a sense of joy in God’s presence. Perhaps one of the biggest challenges my faith has

s 3:5: ‘Trust in the ur heart.’ Over realised what it him ou live in it. I can’t it is a sense of of my favourite more ause ething way oesn’t ways y gh e

The rights of faith

IWISH again to return to the subject of faith. You will remember the words of Jesus Christ: ‘Have faith in God’ (Mark 11:22 King James Version). Now I want to describe the chief experimental beliefs at which all Salvationists should aim.

These beliefs constitute what might be styled a ‘target of faith’. I might entitle them the ‘rights of faith’, seeing that they comprise the beliefs that Salvationists have a right to regard as being true of their own experience. In spite of their feelings, their failures or their backslidings, they may take these beliefs to heart and claim as their own the blessings of which they tell.

First, all Salvationists have a right to believe that God loves them all the time and is really and truly interested in all that concerns their wellbeing.

Whatever there may be in their experience that seems to contradict this fact, they ought not to allow themselves to question this for a moment. They have a right to say in their hearts: ‘My heavenly Father loves me and is fully set upon effecting my present and eternal salvation.’

Do you believe that, my comrades? Have you got that faith in your innermost soul?

Second, true Salvationists have a right to believe, here and now, that God has pardoned all their sins.

I do not mean merely that Salvationists would like God to do this or that God desires to do it but that it is already accomplished. If you are true Salvationists, you have renounced your sins, consecrated yourselves to the

service of God and received Jesus Christ as your Saviour; and you are living today in the spirit of that surrender. In this case you have a right to believe that every sin you have ever committed is forgiven and the record washed away in the blood of the Lamb.

Although those sins have been many in number, dark in character and ruinous in influence, you have a right to believe they are gone – to be remembered against you no more.

I do not ask whether there was a time in the past when you believed this all-important fact that God forgave you, made you a member of his family and a soldier of the cross. But I do ask whether this is your faith today.

Next, if the Spirit bears witness in your heart that you have renounced your evil ways and given yourselves up to the service of God, you have a right to believe that he will furnish you with all the help required to master every temptation that may come to you in the future.

Whether these temptations come from your own appetites, from the pleasures of the world or from the brains of the Devil, you can rely upon God making you a conqueror in the fight which lies before you.

Your battle cry must be, ‘Victory! Victory! through the blood of the Lamb!’ Do you believe this?

Then, if you are consecrated to the task of helping the Saviour to save sinners and spread his Kingdom, you have a right to believe that he is co-operating with you by his Holy Spirit in everything you do. What could teach this truth more

plainly than his own words: ‘If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?’ (Luke 11:13 KJV). ‘When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth’ (John 16:13 KJV).

That is where you are now, comrades, if you are true Salvationists. You have asked for the Holy Spirit, and your Father has responded by giving you the gift asked for. Do not doubt, therefore, but have faith in God. Say to yourselves: ‘I possess the Spirit; he lives with me and works with me and will in one form or another make me a conqueror.’ Never mind your feelings; you live not by feelings but by faith.

Furthermore, if you are true Salvationists, you love God and you have, according to his own word, an incontestable right to believe that he will make all the circumstances of your life promote your true benefit.

You have a right to believe that your losses and your gains, your sorrows and your joys, your sickness and your health, your bereavements – nay, all things that fall to your lot – are his servants, working together for your good, both here and hereafter. Do you believe that?

Finally, you can and must and, if true to your Lord, you will believe that he will keep you faithful until death, support you in the last hour on Earth and finally land you on the Eternal Shore. For he who bids you have faith in God has also said, ‘It is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the Kingdom’ (Luke 12:32 KJV).

Salvationist continues an occasional series of messages that William Booth sent to corps to be read in Sunday meetings

Are wiseyou or foolish?

MATTHEW 7:24–29

OUR summer placement as cadets was at Uxbridge in London. We had a friend come to stay and, unfamiliar with the area but in search of a restaurant, we decided to type ‘Chinese food’ into our sat-nav. You’ll imagine our surprise – and embarrassment – when we followed its instructions meticulously and drove down the flyover for Heathrow airport. It presumably thought our best chance at getting a Chinese meal involved boarding a plane. This probably ranks up there as one of the most foolish things I’ve ever done.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

What’s the most foolish thing that you’ve ever done?

The study passage we’re considering is really about the most foolish thing that we could ever do. When we think of a ‘fool’, our brains probably conjure up images of a person who is a bit daft, jokey or particularly prone to some kind of mishap. This picture, however, doesn’t do full justice to the depth of the word that Jesus uses in this familiar parable, which comes at the end of the Sermon on the Mount, his longest recorded sermon.

The Greek word employed to describe the sandy-land builder is móros. This is where the English word ‘moron’ comes from. Put plainly, Jesus is saying that this parable is about the stupidest things that a person could do. What are the silly mistakes that the person who builds their house on the sand makes?

The first foolish thing is that hearing does not result in doing.

It’s important to remember that this

classic Sunday-school tale comes at the end of Jesus’ seminal speech about what life in his Kingdom – and a life shaped by following him – looks like. Through this parable, Jesus explains that those who have heard him but for whom his words make no difference are, quite simply, foolish. In other words, he is saying that if, for example, you’ve just heard him say ‘blessed are the peacemakers’, it would be foolish to walk around holding grudges. If you’ve heard him say ‘blessed are the poor’ but your life continues to be shaped by selfishness and greed then there’s something not very clever going on.

The thing that earns this particular builder the title of ‘foolish’ is that he knows what Jesus has said but he fails to do anything about putting Jesus’ words into practice.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Can you think of examples of where you have not practised what you preach?

What was the effect?

The second mistake the builder of the doomed house makes is thinking that today is for ever.

There are interesting parallels between the way that Jesus talks about the outcomes for the wise builder in verse 25 and the foolish builder in verse 27.

The circumstances faced by both are identical: the rain comes down, the streams rise and the winds beat against their houses. The only difference is that the house on the rock stands firm, while the house on the sand falls flat.

It seems that on a sunny day, without storms or inclement weather, a house is

a house. But when the testing times come, what the builder did – or failed to do – makes all the difference. The foolish builder either didn’t foresee the inevitable squall or knew what would happen and chose not to build appropriately.

The same is certainly true of our faith. We aren’t called to be fair-weather Christians. Our relationship with God isn’t supposed to be something that we look to only when the storms and pressures of life come. The challenge is for us to develop a discipleship that will last whatever difficulties, tragedies and disappointments come our way. We do this by cultivating it whatever the season.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

How does your faith in Christ help you in difficult times?

What do you do to develop your discipleship in less stormy seasons?

The final mistake the foolish builder makes is in trusting the words of anyone else other than Jesus.

This story is well known by many of us, but in its familiarity we’d do well not to miss two important sentences that bookend it. Jesus starts by saying ‘everyone who hears these words of mine’ (v24). Matthew wraps up the parable by saying: ‘When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority’ (vv28 and 29).

In a sense, the whole tale hinges on this. It boils down to understanding that at the centre of this story are the words of Jesus – the one who has complete

Captain Callum McKenna challenges us to build a discipleship that will last all weathers

authority and who is completely trustworthy. It is doing – or not doing –what Jesus says that makes the difference between a house that stays standing in a storm and a house that falls with a great crash.

We live in a world full of noises. Many voices compete for our attention. They readily offer advice and opinions for our lives. Yet, ultimately, it is what Jesus says that really matters. It is who Jesus says we are that really counts. It is what Jesus says about the kind of lives we should live that makes the real difference. According to this story, the wise thing to do is to listen to, and act upon, what Jesus says.

As John Gowans put it:

Nothing can I achieve, nothing attain; He that without thee builds, labours in vain; Shatter my own design, Shaping a plan divine, Come to this heart of mine, Saviour, again.

(SASB

600)

Prayer Matters contains daily devotions covering specific areas in the territory, current worldwide situations and personal reflection and relationship with God. A PDF of the unedited booklet is available to download from salvationist.org.uk/resources

HELPING-HAND APPEAL FOCUS

by Hayley Still (UK Engagement Co-ordinator, International Projects)

SATURDAY 4 FEBRUARY

In many schools, the lack of safe and private toilet facilities means girls are forced to go home when they get their period. They therefore regularly miss classes and ultimately fall behind in their education. Alongside the provision of private toilet facilities, mothers’ groups have been created to help raise awareness about hygiene issues and support girls as they reach puberty, so no student feels alone.

SUNDAY 5 FEBRUARY

Water is more than a drink. It is children growing. It is continued education. It is time to build your business. It is the potential for equal opportunities. It is economic independence. Water is life! Thank God for access we have to this precious gift and pray for wisdom in our usage of it.

THE LORD’S PRAYER FOCUS

by Tendayi Mafemera (Southwark)

PAUSE AND REFLECT

What are the other voices that compete for your attention?

How can you listen to God?

MONDAY 6 FEBRUARY

What is prayer? We may often think that prayer is making requests to God, but it’s a conversation between us and God. Life situations call us to pray for God’s intervention. Father, help us to build a strong relationship with you through prayer and supplication, in spirit and truth.

TUESDAY 7 FEBRUARY – MATTHEW 6:9

In this verse we see prayer being used to praise, worship and exalt God. Paul and Silas themselves were freed from prison through praise (see Acts 16:25 and 26). Father, help us to acknowledge your power when we praise and worship you. Amen.

WEDNESDAY 8 FEBRUARY – MATTHEW 6:10

This prayer invites God to direct and guide our lives according to his will and purpose. Elijah walked in the will of God and he was able to call fire from Heaven (see 2 Kings 1:10). Father, help us to live like Christ and walk in your will on Earth as it is in Heaven. Amen.

THURSDAY 9 FEBRUARY – MATTHEW 6:11–13

In Matthew 7:7 Jesus tells us to ‘ask’. God, help us to believe that anything we ask will be given unto us. Increase our faith. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

FRIDAY 10 FEBRUARY

‘For thine is the Kingdom, the power and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.’ While this final part of the Lord’s Prayer isn’t included in Matthew’s Gospel, it’s a powerful ending that acknowledges God’s sovereignty. Father, Creator of Heaven and Earth, who has power over all creation, we glorify and honour you all the days of our lives on Earth and in Heaven. Amen.

CAPTAIN CALLUM MCKENNA Mission and Ministry Formation Co-ordinator William Booth College

PRAYER REQUESTS

Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for? Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line and the Territorial Prayer Network will uphold them in prayer.

Inspiring the next generation

DURING the annual Self-Denial Appeal, Salvationists in territories around the world, whether rich or poor, share in self-sacrifice to build a better world for our brothers and sisters in countries that need it most. It is an important reminder to count our blessings, not to take what we have for granted and to look for ways in which we can share with others.

This year’s appeal supports The Salvation Army’s work with young people around the world. Growing up in today’s world can be tough. It can be even harder for young people who endure discrimination, live in a

country devastated by conflict or disaster, or face uncertainty. The Lord asks us to acknowledge these hardships. The Bible tells us in Joshua 1:9: ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.’

WHEN IS THE APPEAL?

The 2023 Self-Denial Appeal runs from 5 February to 5 March, with an offering taken up in corps on Sunday 5 March.

For young people this may feel like a challenge in itself. But through the Self-Denial Appeal we can give young people faith and confidence to believe in themselves. We can offer new opportunities, a safe place and guidance to create hope and a future. Together

“ I want to become a big person with dreams who will inspire other people.”

Josfridah, 17 – Kenya

we can help more young people like Josfridah, Dmitry and Joyce, who share their stories with us in this year’s Appeal.

Josfridah is 17 years-old and from Kenya. She lives with the physical challenges of spina bifida, which causes her pain and affects the way she walks. When we visited her at The Salvation Army’s Joytown School, she told us how the support and special facilities help her embrace life and learning.

The school is a national institution for students with physical challenges and Josfridah immediately felt welcome. At her previous school, Josfridah had been constantly bullied due to her spina bifida. She was a top student but her self-esteem hit rock bottom and she was diagnosed with depression.

SELF-DENIAL AND HELPING-HAND EXPLAINED

International Projects Office Team Leader Benjamin Gilbert outlines the differences and links between the two appeals

When did Self-Denial start?

The Self-Denial Appeal started in 1886 when General William Booth called Salvationists to give sacrificially and to deny themselves so that they could offer God’s love to a hurting world. The Salvation Army is now active in more than 130 countries and the Self-Denial Appeal still operates in every territory. Whether living in wealth or poverty, Salvationists from all walks of life generously support the Army’s mission to share the gospel and improve the lives of millions of people through the love of Jesus.

What are the funds used for?

While the Helping-Hand Appeal funds are used internationally for community-based projects, the funds from the Self-Denial Appeal are channelled into the operational costs of The Salvation Army across the world. This includes everything from paying the electricity bill for a THQ in a country such as Ghana to paying for training courses for officers in Pakistan. Every territory, command and region contributes financially to the total appeal fund but, depending on the size and financial position of each one, some will receive back more funding than they put in. In this way The Salvation Army is able to operate in more than 130 countries with some territories – such as the UKI Territory, which is able to raise significant funding on its own – helping to support territories that are not in such a fortunate position.

How are the two appeals linked?

In many territories, the Army uses a church-based model when implementing its community programmes. A clean water or food security project will often closely involve a corps officer and corps volunteers. For example, a corps building might be used to conduct trainings or facilitate the distribution of seeds in a project. This ensures that relationships between a corps and its wider community can be built and sustained after the project has ended.

The Self-Denial Appeal helps to keep the physical infrastructure of the Army going and the Helping-Hand Appeal enables corps to engage in community needs far beyond what their own resources would allow. Both appeals are mutually dependant on each other – so please give generously to both!

Read the full article online at salvationist.org.uk/appealsexplained

Salvationist introduces this year’s Self-Denial Appeal, which focuses on the Army’s work with young people around the world

YOUR OFFERING

Bring your sacrificial offering to your corps altar service on Sunday 5 March, or hand it in at your corps any time during or after the appeal. Why not ask your corps officers for a box and save up for your gift as you go?

Donate using this QR code or by visiting salvationist.org.uk/ selfdenial – and give your corps name when prompted.

At Joytown, the facilities and teaching have transformed her experience. She feels able to reach out and talk to the teachers, nurses and chaplain. Her fellow students understand each other. ‘Here people motivate each other. There are other people worse than me… They are happy, I can be happy. I can be me,’ she says.

Thousands of miles from Kenya, The Salvation Army has helped another young person find faith in their future. The Ukraine conflict destroyed everything 14-year-old Dmitry had known, leaving him and his grandfather with nothing, and no one but each other. Together they escaped via Odessa to Moldova, where they found sanctuary at Ialoveni, which is run by The Salvation Army.

Dmitry now has some stability in his life and attends school. It is a far cry from the family life he knew, but he has the Salvation Army family to support and embrace him. Dmitry says: ‘I can talk about the Lord and faith, and I pray for those I love, and it’s helping me right now.’

In Pakistan, 15-year-old Joyce lives in a community with strong links to The Salvation Army. Her mother is a social secretary and an Army officer, and she has two younger sisters. Joyce and her sisters attend a Christian school, with some Muslim teachers and pupils, and

Joyce is interested in learning about other faiths. Here the boys and girls enjoy the same opportunities. But outside this close community, Joyce’s ambitions are shadowed by a cloud of discrimination. Joyce fears that discrimination in wider society may affect her dream to become a doctor. She tells us: ‘My hope for the future is that there will be less discrimination and more progress for the next generation.’

Sacrificial giving today can build a stronger tomorrow for thousands more young people. When they have skills to make their way in a challenging world, they can grow in confidence and achieve so much. The Army can give them the resources and encouragement they need, and also share the love of Jesus and show how faith and community can enrich their lives. At the same time, the Army is inspiring the next generation of Salvationists.

3 WAYS YOU CAN GIVE

Daily offering

Give up something that you do every day. For example, instead of paying to take the bus, you could walk or cycle.

Specific sacrifice

Forgo a specific treat or luxury. That could be a meal out or buying something that you don’t need.

One week’s salary on missionary service

To donate in this way, talk to your corps officer or corps treasurer.

FILMING SELF-DENIAL

Video Production Unit Manager Bridget O’Leary takes us behind the scenes of this year’s appeal videos

How many Self-Denial videos are there?

Five. Three featuring different countries – Kenya, Moldova and Pakistan – plus an introduction explaining where the funds go and a final video to summarise the stories we’ve heard and reminding people how to give.

How big is the filming team?

Two people: Creative Director Neil MacInnes, who directed, and me, who produced and did the sound. We try to share travelling abroad between team members who want to do it, but it also has to be the right team for that project. We visited Kenya and Moldova in person and used Zoom for interviews in Pakistan, with a local young man from The Salvation Army doing some filming for us.

How long did you stay in each place for?

Five to seven days. You can’t just film people without building up a relationship first if you want the best result.

Do you know who you’re going to film beforehand?

In Moldova, we knew we were going to film Dmitry. The division out there put him forward, preparing him and his grandad as well as gaining consent. In Kenya, at Joytown School, we did many interviews before we found Josfridah on the penultimate day. We’d filmed with other children, and they were good interviews, but hers was so powerful. She’s so wise for her age and has been through so much trauma and hardship. She was incredibly inspiring.

Is their on-screen presence as important as their story?

Viewers really need to understand the contributor’s story, to journey alongside them and for as much of their story as possible to be in their own words, so yes the interview is crucial in this situation.

When did you do the filming?

In October. It was an incredible, unforgettable experience, and such a privilege to see the difference the Army makes around the world.

How many hours of footage did you end up with?

Approximately 10 hours.

How long does it take to edit it together?

It typically takes two to three months. Neil drives the edit forward working on the shape of the films, he has the vision, he’s supported by a freelance editor, Jon, who works on the graphics and the online edit (the final colour grading, sound mix and tweaking).

What’s the most challenging part of the process?

It’s a fine balance, to maintain dignity and respect and to gather material which portrays a story well. I believe we do strike that balance. To film anything is a decision, and sometimes we chose not to. At Joytown they were keen for us to film some of the children eating using their feet. Just by being there and watching without filming felt like an infringement on their dignity and so we chose not to. In Dmitry’s scenario, where he had lost his parents and siblings, it was important that an advocate was involved to support him as he told us about his past. It is a privilege to be entrusted to capture someone’s story professionally, to shape it and craft it into a form that others can view, building understanding so that they learn, do or feel something different than before.

Watch the videos online at salvationist.org.uk/selfdenial

Seeking God together

THE HAYES CONFERENCE CENTRE, SWANWICK

DELEGATES attending the Encounter Prayer Gathering experienced an inspiring weekend themed All Together in One Place, reports Territorial Ecumenical Officer Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts.

This theme was based on Acts 1:1, which depicts the disciples meeting together at Pentecost. It was explored in sessions that included teaching, worship, prayer and reflection.

The first session, called Together in Prayer, began with worship led by Jo and Joel Thomas (Cheltenham Citadel), who took part throughout the weekend, before Chief Secretary Colonel Paul Main and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Jenine Main introduced six prayer concerns for the Army. These were: international, territorial and local leaders; ‘generous discipleship’, which was a prayer for every Salvationist to be fully committed to God’s mission; youth and children’s work; the relationship with the government over the Army’s ‘centralised services’, such as Homelessness Services, Older People’s Services and anti-trafficking and modern slavery work; the need for spiritual leaders; and the implementation of new structures within the territory.

Delegates were able to move around the conference hall praying briefly with others about one of the concerns that resonated with them. Together in God’s Story was the theme of two sessions on Saturday morning in which Jo Clark (Norway, Iceland and the Færoes Territory) spoke about how we can encounter God by listening to people’s stories. Relating some of her own moving experiences with individuals and communities, she encouraged delegates to support, appreciate and listen to people and then apply what they learn to their own lives. This, she said, was better than trying to solve people’s problems

or judging, contradicting and dismissing them.

Delegates were able to attend two of four informative seminars held in the afternoon. Territorial Youth and Children’s Secretary Major Helen Schofield with Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development LieutColonel Jayne Roberts introduced the resource Pastorally Supporting LGBTQ+ Young People. Colonel Jenine and Major Marjory Parrott (Swadlincote) focused on multicultural ministry. Major Meshiel Brown (Sunderland Citadel) led a session on creative prayer journaling and Dawn Lacey’s session highlighted physical and spiritual wellbeing.

Mission, emphasising that there is no distinction between prayer and action and calling for greater intensity in prayer in the territory.

The final session, Together in Jesus’ Name, featured worship, testimony and challenging Bible messages. The Chief Secretary held up a black bin liner representing the experiences of rejection and regret that weigh people down and urged delegates to place their burdens at the cross and allow Jesus to remove them. ‘Isn’t it time to leave the past in the past and let Jesus have the future?’ he asked.

Julia Thomas (Long Eaton) had brought more than 100 small wooden crosses carved with the name ‘Jesus’, which her husband, Brian, had made. In moments of reflection delegates were invited forward to receive one.

The day concluded with an evening of prayer and worship led by Lyndall Bywater, Captain Vanessa Coleman (Buckingham) and Captain Cor van der Woude (Chester-le-Street), which included prayer for the themes of the afternoon’s seminars.

On Sunday morning Territorial Prayer Network Support Officer Captain Gary Lacey spoke on the theme Together in

In her message Colonel Jenine said that ‘amazing things’ happen when God’s people gather together and Jesus is present. She reflected on what God had said and done during the weekend and encouraged the delegates to share their experiences of transformation with family and friends when they return home.

In a concluding time of response everyone wrote or drew on a paper hand and placed it on a cross at the front, expressing thanks to God and their determination to follow Jesus in the days ahead.

Amazing things happen when God’s people gather together

“ ”

INTERNATIONAL

Congress rekindles spiritual fire

SOUTH AMERICA WEST

A HALLMARK of the visit of General Brian Peddle and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Rosalie Peddle was the movement of the Holy Spirit at the congress meetings.

Themed Rekindle the Fire, the congress took place in Chile and Bolivia, two of the four countries that make up the territory. Commencing with officers’ councils in Santiago, Chile, the international leaders challenged officers to go forward in the mission without fear, relying on the Lord. Separate rallies for men and women preceded an evening youth rally, before Thursday events included local officers’, holiness and celebration meetings.

Moving on to Cochabamba in Bolivia,

the international leaders visited the Army’s Harry Williams Hospital, which treats hundreds of patients every day. This was followed by an afternoon march of witness (pictured), where 800 Salvationists marched in celebration of their faith. In recognition of the Army’s service to the community, Councilman Diego Murillo appointed the General as a guest of honour in the city. Sunday’s activities included the

commissioning and ordination of six officers. The enrolment by the General of both junior and senior soldiers in Santiago and Cochabamba was also a special time of challenge and blessing, clearly marked by the presence of God.

Territorial Commander Colonel Alex Nesterenko acknowledged the warmth of fellowship experienced during the visit, declaring: ‘The sparks of the Holy Spirit’s fire were seen in full power.’ – AR

REMEMBRANCE EMERGENCY AID

HASTINGS CITADEL Responding to floods, the corps provided a space for the emergency services. Firefighters, council workers and utilities representatives received drinks, snacks and hot meals and were given a space to hold meetings and rest. The team at the corps also helped local residents directly affected, including one woman who didn’t want to leave her flat despite having lost all power. The team heated up food for her and provided flasks of hot water, as well as sleeping bags and blankets. – D-AH

Salvationist honoured with museum plaque

HARTLEPOOL

A SALVATION Army officer who was killed in the First World War has been honoured with a plaque at the town’s Heugh Battery Museum.

Adjutant William Avery (pictured with his family) was the corps officer at what was then West Hartlepool Citadel. He died on 16 December 1914 when the German Navy bombarded Hartlepool, Scarborough and Whitby.

William’s grandson, James Gilman, said: ‘It’s an honour to present this plaque to the Heugh Battery Museum and see my grandfather, a Salvation Army hero, recognised. He was one of the first civilians to be killed in the UK during the First World War. His death made headline news not only in the national press but also as far afield as the Sydney Morning Herald in Australia.’ – AR

EVENT

DUNSTABLE A 12-hour prayer event –researched, prepared and facilitated by Adherents Secretary Sue Leadbeater –helped people prepare for Covenant Sunday. Attendees booked one-hour slots to visit seven prayer stations, each of which considered a different name and nature of God. Each station had an explanatory leaflet and opportunity to do arts and crafts. – SB

MUSIC MODERN SLAVERY Support for survivors must be protected, says Army THQ

THE Salvation Army has raised concerns about new government measures, which expect people to provide objective evidence that they have been exploited.

Major Kathy Betteridge, director of Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery, commented: ‘Survivors of modern slavery are victims of crime who have been tricked, trapped and traded for other people’s profits. Modern slavery and immigration should not be conflated nor addressed by the same strategies, or we risk making it harder for genuine victims to come forward to be supported.

‘We are concerned these new measures will make it harder for people to prove they are entitled to support and protection from abusers.

‘ We agree it is important to speed up decisionmaking around modern slavery cases, but we seek reassurances that vital support processes remain in place and are protected f rom any future legislative or policy changes.’ – AR

FUNDRAISING

SALISBURY The corps hosted a new year concert by Salisbury Concert Band, which raised £662 for Salisbury Trust for the Homeless. The hall seemed a perfect fit for the trustees of the homelessness charity, who value the collaboration between t he corps, themselves and other like-minded groups. Plans are already in place to hold a similar event in 2024. – MD

NEWS IN BRIEF

MERTHYR TYDFIL The hall is open through January and February to provide a warm space for people struggling with the cost of living crisis. It also offers a place to meet and enjoy friendship. – LB

GUISBOROUGH More than 300 people gathered for the band’s Carols Round the Christmas Tree. The corps also helped families through the toy appeal. Special thanks go to Niki Reed, who tirelessly raised £2,500 for the appeal. – SS

KILBIRNIE Staff members and passers-by at Morrisons in Largs welcomed the band as it played Christmas carols there for the first time in recent years due to Covid-19 restrictions. – JM

BOGNOR REGIS The corps welcomed the Music Man Project for a workshop at the hall. Sixty people attended, many coming to the corps for the first t ime for a fun-filled day of singing, playing instruments, signing and dancing. Everyone who attended enjoyed lunch and received a goody bag to take away. Consideration is being g iven to establishing a Music Man Project group at the corps. – CS

Counselling Service celebrates 50 years

REGENT HALL

FOR 50 years the Army’s Counselling Service has supported the wellbeing of those involved in its mission and ministry. To celebrate this landmark anniversary, past and present staff members were joined by Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill, who opened the Well Being Department’s newly refurbished rooms on Princes Street.

Major Sarah Evans, director of Well Being, shared words of welcome and Colonel Jenine Main (THQ) led the opening song ‘Now Thank We All Our God’, before Head of Counselling Service Major Carole Harries offered a prayer of thanksgiving.

Counsellor Major Richard Gaudion traced the roots of the service back to William Booth’s 1890 book In Darkest England and the Way Out

After a brass ensemble from Regent Hall and THQ played ‘Jesus Loves Me’, the TC reflected upon Psalm 23 and offered a prayer of dedication for the new facilities. Counsellor Melissa

Curson joined the TC to cut an anniversary cake.

The transformation of the premises at Princes Street reflects the service’s shifting requirements, offering both online facilities and a welcoming space for those coming in person to be listened to and learn more about themselves. – SE

EVENT

ENVIRONMENT

WATFORD Head office staff from Pickfords gave up a weekend to volunteer at the corps community allotment. The team brought their families along to help build new compost heaps and paths. The corps and Pickfords have piloted a strong local partnership, which is now being encouraged in other regions where the Army and Pickfords have nearby centres. The allotment is an important mission arena and is visited by up to 120 students, teachers and parents a week between February and October. – MS

STAPLE HILL The band presented a concert themed The Miracle of Christmas, with cornet soloist Beth Ewins playing ‘Away in a Manger’. The singing company presented two items before joining the band and congregation for ‘Super Duper Christmas’. Singing company member Isabella Lyons brought the vocal solo ‘It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas’, Michael Blowers played a Christmas piano medley and Naomi Blowers sang ‘Somewhere in My Memory’. The band played ‘Who Is He?’ as the young people presented a Nativity play. Bandmaster Marc Willets shared a thought, asking if people had room for Jesus, before Philip Jones brought the vocal solo ‘Do You Have Room’. At the toy service people donated many gifts for distribution to children across South Gloucestershire. At a Light up a Life service led by St Peter’s Hospice, people received candles to remember their loved ones. – VW

WALTHAM ABBEY After three months of major renovations, an afternoon of worship and thanksgiving reopened the main hall, welcoming a capacity congregation for the celebrations. The mayor and deputy mayor, Councillor Jeane Lea and Councillor Shane Yerrell, attended along with Divisional Area Officers Majors Jo and Tim Justice and Territorial Community Engagement Lead Debbie Charles. The Bible was read by the oldest soldier in the corps, Don Cramp. During the afternoon a mercy seat – which was remodelled from the old one by carpenter Andrew Tuffnell – was dedicated. Everyone received a wooden cross that was made from offcuts of the old mercy seat. Refreshments were then served from the new purpose-built coffee bar. The refurbishment of the hall has been in the works for the past seven years and the corps is pleased to see it come to fruition. – SK

OAKENGATES

DAVID Clougher was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Major Vaughan Bovan. David was let down for his Christmas dinner just prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, and a friend suggested he try the Army. He arrived on Christmas Day in time for worship and was invited in by corps folk. David was made to feel welcome and stayed for dinner. He has never looked back, finding Jesus and a spiritual home. – VB

WELLING

TIM Shubotham was re-enrolled as a soldier by Divisional Commander Major Val Mylechreest. Tim testified that he had previously been a soldier, but things happened that meant he strayed from the path. He testified to being back on the path and having his eyes firmly fixed on Jesus. Tim was supported by the corps and his family. His daughter spoke of seeing how happy her dad was upon recommitting himself to God. Tim and Major Val are pictured with corps officer Captain Katy Shubotham. – KS

COLCHESTER CITADEL

JANE Carter was enrolled as a soldier by corps officers Majors Filipa and Luis Viriato. Jane was encouraged to attend by the bandmaster at Harlow Corps, where she volunteered. Moved by the example of her daughter, Emma, who was enrolled as a soldier at Harlow, Jane now attends faithfully. She is an essential part of the fellowship and volunteers in the Open House programme. Emma and family and friends from Harlow came to support Jane’s commitment and she shared how God has gracefully been working in her life. – FV

EXMOUTH

CHARLES Jackson, 97, was welcomed as an adherent by Divisional Mission Enabler Major Fiona Broom. Charles has been faithfully attending the corps for some months and, although already part of the family, he wanted to make this further commitment. The joy of Jesus shines out of Charles. He is a great encouragement and example and proves that age is no limit to following Jesus. Also pictured are Corps Mission Secretary Julia Chapple and Major Ian Harris. – JH

DOROTHY Titley was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Major Carole Loveridge, having attended the over-60 club. They are pictured with Over-60 Secretary Janet Smart. – CL

WARRINGTON

JOAN HOWLETT MIDDLESBROUGH ACKLAM

JOAN was born in Stockton-onTees where one afternoon she followed the Army band back to the hall for the praise meeting. It was not long before Joan found the love of Jesus and she wanted to follow the Lord wherever he led her.

Joan went to work in a men’s hostel in Newcastle, where she worked alongside Major Laura. She was then called to go to Blackfriars Hostel in London, where she worked with Major Maxine. It was there she got married to Rodger Howlett.

A return to Middlesbrough a year later saw the birth of their daughter, Maxine Laura. Joan was a committed soldier of Thornaby, Stockton and Middlesbrough Corps, where she would help in any way she could. Joan always had a lovely smile right up to the day God called her Home.

As Joan would say with a cheerful voice and a beaming smile, ‘God bless you.’ – BG

LIEUT-COLONEL HEATHER BLURTON

HEATHER was born in Cape Town where her officer parents, Lieut-Colonels John and May Hebden, served, firstly in South Africa and then in Kenya. With her brother and sister, she lived in remote areas which necessitated all three attending boarding schools in Nairobi. Heather learned Kenyan culture and traditions and spoke their languages fluently.

After seven years in Kenya, Heather’s parents decided that the family should spend time in England. Heather soldiered at Hastings and Catford where her parents were stationed. After three years she returned to South Africa.

In 1957 Heather received the call to officership, which meant leaving Johannesburg City Corps, to enter the International Training College in London from Edmonton as a cadet in the Greathearts session in 1959.

Commissioned in 1960, Heather was appointed to Whitchurch, Hedge End, Midsomer Norton with Shepton Mallet and Norton before marrying Lieutenant Geoff Blurton and being appointed to Atherstone.

Officer service took them to Kenya with their two small children, where she cared for the needs of 120 children at Kibos School for the Blind.

Back in the UK, Heather served at Sacriston and Southend Southchurch, after which she returned to her homeland, South Africa, serving in the Territorial Youth Department.

Further appointments in the UK were at Wakefield, Kettering and Boscombe before divisional appointments in Ireland and Yorkshire. Heather’s final appointment was as territorial secretary for women’s ministries in Zambia.

Heather was truly a Greatheart. A devoted wife, mother to Karen and Adrian, grandmother and a dedicated servant of God. To countless Africans she was Mama. In Indonesia, where Geoff was serving in post-tsunami recovery, she became Oma to young officers. Heather had the gift of hospitality, and it was always a joy for family and friends to visit. Kwa heri

Resource Centre has the tools you need.

Heather Moira. Nakupenda. Asante kwa kila kitu. Mungu akubariki. – GB/TH/TT

ARMY PEOPLE

Local officers appointed

CSM ALISON DEARLOVE, Hemel Hempstead

Dedicated to God

AUTUMN KEMI CULLEY, daughter of Paul Culley and Kemi Hammond, at Clowne by Majors Mark and Sarah Price

Retired officers’ birthdays

MAJOR BRENDA SPARKES, 90 on 19 February

Promoted to Glory

CHRIS BECK, Rugby

PHYLLIS IRVINE, Belfast North

BRYAN JUBB, Brighouse

S/RESERVIST JOAN CROMBIE , Brighton Congress Hall, on 22 December

DAVID WALLER , Bolton Citadel, on 12 January

PETER TAIT, Carlisle, on 16 January

DIVISIONAL ENVOY JEAN TOMKINSON from De Lucy House care home on 22 January

LIEUT-COLONEL ROY GIRLING from his home on 22 January

MAJOR MIRIAM DODDS from Brooklands Nursing Home on 22 January

Bereaved

BANDSMAN DANIEL CROMBIE, Brighton

Congress Hall, of his wife S/Reservist Joan Crombie

KATHLEEN WALLER , Bolton Citadel, of her husband David Waller, Jason Waller of his father and Robert Waller of his brother

MAJOR LOUISE DAVIS, Hedge End, and Nick Tait, Carlisle, of their father Peter Tait

LIEUT-COLONEL JILL GIRLING of her husband

Lieut-Colonel Roy Girling

ROAR JORGENSEN, Lillestrom, Norway, Iceland and the Færoes, of his wife Lena Jorgensen, Captain Lillian Bean, Isle of Wight, and Jens Jorgensen, Lillestrom, of their mother

OFFICIAL GAZETTE

Long service

25 years

MAJOR ANITA PURKISS, Leicester West

COMMISSIONER

ANTHONY COTTERILL

Territorial Commander

ENGAGEMENTS

General Brian Peddle and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle

Mon 30 Jan – Tue 7 Feb India Eastern Territory

Sun 12 Feb – Mon 13 Feb International College for Officers

Wed 15 Feb – Mon 20 Feb Rwanda and Burundi Command

Chief of the Staff Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

Fri 17 Feb ICO Farewell Meeting

Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill and Commissioner Gillian Cotterill

Wed 8 Feb WBC (spiritual day)

Sun 12 Feb Bristol Kingswood

Sun 12 Feb – Mon 13 Feb Forest of Dean

Fri 17 Feb Poole (TYB/TYC Final Festival)

Chief Secretary Colonel Paul Main and Colonel Jenine Main

Thur 16 Jan – Fri 17 Feb Raven Hill (Going Deeper)*

Fri 17 Feb Poole (TYB/TYC Final Festival)

*Colonel Jenine Main only

NOTICES

Cost of living crisis: A call to prayer

Christians Against Poverty invite you to join online or in person on Wednesday 8 February at 7pm at Westminster Chapel for the ecumenical prayer event Lament to Hope to consider how God is calling the Church to prayer and action. On the same day the chapel is also holding three ‘listening and prayer’ sessions at 2pm, 3:30pm and 5pm. For details go to capuk.org/ calltoprayer

Artists’ forum

Anyone involved in visual arts in The Salvation Army is invited to join a free Music and Creative Arts online forum on 9 February. Choose between two sessions – at 11am and 8pm – to talk about how to support each other and develop the use of art in ministry and mission. For more details and Zoom codes, email music@salvationarmy.org.uk

SOUNDS

Salvationist Radio

Update for Fortress Radio listeners

Salvationist Radio will launch at the end of February. As part of our preparations for launch, we are redeveloping some of the Fortress Radio services. This means that, currently, people can only listen to the station via the Fortress Radio website (fortressradio.online) – they can’t listen via the apps, podcasts or Amazon Alexa devices while we get them ready to switch to the new station.

SKEGNESS, 42 HIGH STREET PE25 3NW

Saturday 18 February, 4pm

FUNDRAISING CONCERT

with Swineshead Silver Band Director of Music John Lyon

Sing along with the band

Free entry – proceeds of retiring collection for the work of The Salvation Army in Skegness

SOUTHBOURNE, BOURNEMOUTH SOUTHERN BREEZE LODGE (adults only)

Salvationist-owned guest house close to shops and beaches

For more information please call 01202 427459 email enquiries@southernbreezelodge.co.uk or visit southernbreezelodge.co.uk

DROITWICH SPA, OMBERSLEY WAY WR9 0AB

Saturday 18 March, 7.30pm

EVENING CONCERT

Staffordshire Band and Charlie Green

Tickets £8 from Richard Campbell: 07387 308718

All adverts carried in Salvationist are subject to house style and carried at the editor’s discretion.

For more details email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk.

TO LET

MAJORCA Beautiful, well-equipped apartment. Two double bedrooms (sleeps a total of two to six). Walk-in shower, second toilet. Near seafront amenities. Large balcony, lovely view, quiet area. Competitive prices. Email carol@ckendall.co.uk or tel 01274 678 889 / 07308 506064.

ADVERTISING RATES

ALL PRICES EXCLUDE VAT

TYPESIZE1 ISSUE3 ISSUES

Classified listing Up to 25 words£9£20

Classified listing Up to 50 words£18£40

Small box (1/32nd page) 30mm x 43mm£15£40

Medium box (1/16th page) 30mm x 89mm£35£85

Large box (1/8th page) 62mm x 89mm£65£170

Quarter page 89mm x 127mm£170£440

Half page 127mm x 181mm£340£850

Full back page 181mm x 258mm£675£1,650

ADVERTS CANNOT BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. For further information email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk.

RECRUITING NOW DIGITAL ASSISTANT LONDON Join our team

The digital team is recruiting for a digital assistant to help support corps and other content creators across The Salvation Army’s UK and Ireland Territory. Working across the website and social media channels, this role will help deliver our mission and communicate our impact to the general public.

The Salvation Army has a long history of standing up for the most vulnerable in our society and our role as communicators is to help those without a voice be heard. If you have a passion for social justice and an interest in digital communications, this could be the perfect role for you.