Salvationist 5 August 2023

SALVATIONIST

PLOTTING FOR THE FUTURE ALLOTMENTS IN THE ARMY

Past, present or

TO what extent does our past determine our future or, indeed, our future influence our present? As a society we have perhaps never been more aware of our own impact upon our environment and are developing an increasing conscience of the legacy that we will leave for others.

In this week’s magazine we reflect on several projects that are cognisant of this as we seek to care for creation. Through the lens of Psalm 145, we are also given the opportunity to reflect on the impact of those who have gone before us and subsequently our need to pass on our own experiences of faith, not just to future generations, but now, as we live out our faith in the communities in which we live and serve.

Our history as a Movement is rich in examples of speaking up and speaking out against injustice, but are we shouting loudly enough? Have we become too comfortable with the world as it is for us, seduced by the lure of the status quo rather than championing the cause of the marginalised, which was once our default position?

May we each be ready to engage, to do our part, putting our faith into both words and action for the whole world. For today – and for tomorrow.

MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN

EDITOR

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EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn

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SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS

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

FOUNDER William Booth

GENERAL Lyndon Buckingham

TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

Commissioner Anthony Cotterill

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Julian Watchorn

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Fire alarm

As wildfires

on the Continent, Major

‘YOUR sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions’ (Joel 2:28). I had a dream recently – one of disaster. Wildfires were approaching my house and I didn’t know what to do. I felt desperate and helpless. It was all too late.

At the end of last month, wildfires on the island of Rhodes forced Greece’s largest ever evacuation of 19,000 people. Temperatures were predicted to reach 44C, with The Guardian calling the hot, dry, windy conditions ‘perfect fuel for fires nationwide’. Since the start of this heatwave, a number of fires have broken out across Greece, including on Evia, Corfu and in the Peloponnese.

Joel wasn’t alone in exercising a prophetic gift to speak God’s word to an ailing humankind. Amos’s words – ‘Woe to you who are complacent in Zion, and to

Reflect and respond

Read Ineza’s full comments at glblctzn. co/5U8wgeMYIBb. How can developed countries help other countries?

Reflect on the warning in Amos 6:1. Where do you see complacency around you in caring for creation?

Pray for those in positions of power and influence to make a difference.

you who feel secure on Mount Samaria, you notable men of the foremost nation, to whom the people of Israel come!’ (6:1) – were to do with sin, but the warning of complacency is no less relevant.

In a recent radio phone-in discussing holidays on the Continent, one person said: ‘There is a shortage of water for local people, but the hotels make sure we have plenty of water, and we can always cool down in the swimming pool.’

On 6 June, the UKI Salvation Army declared a climate emergency. While Rhodes burns, Christians who claim any interest in caring for creation can no longer stand idly by. We might have been shamefully and unbiblically complacent when the worst impacts of the climate emergency were felt a long way away, but now we don’t have the excuse of distance.

For decades, scientists, not the Church, have sounded the warning, but we haven’t listened. Now those scientists are appealing frankly to governments, challenging policies that have directly or indirectly played a part in driving our common home towards becoming a fire pit.

As a Salvation Army, we are called to be prophetic, to advocate loudly, publicly and prayerfully for human dignity and social justice among the world’s poorest and most oppressed – those hit hardest by climate change.

Ineza Umuhoza Grace, the 27-year-old winner of the 2023 Global Citizen Prize: Citizen award, Rwanda, said: ‘Imagine someone struggling to stay afloat, drowning in deep water. Would you find a way to help them immediately, or would

you stand there, watching her or him drowning and promising to have a rescue team come over, without knowing whether it’s going to come or when it’s going to arrive?’

Responding to this fire alarm is now about more than merely recycling on our way to the airport, before hopping on a carbon-emitting flight to a holiday destination. This is about making uncomfortable – and perhaps inconvenient – choices about where we holiday, what we eat and wear and how we use the Earth’s finite resources, so that others may survive; this is about living simply so that others may simply live. Aren’t Salvationists, after all, guided by William Booth’s famous one-word imperative, ‘others’?

Politicians and captains of industry have the clout and financial muscle to make a difference. Is the Army’s voice heard in those corridors of power or in the media, challenging the mindset of apathy, challenging investments in multinational companies that seem not to have heard the alarm?

Might we be afraid of tarnishing our reputation? Might we be reluctant to risk losing donor support and goodwill? If so, we also risk the loss of our prophetic credibility as the Army we were – and still are – called to be.

spread

Heather Poxon reflects on the urgency of the climate crisis

seconds with... EXPLAINED

mercy seat

A CHAIR or bench that is found at the front of many Salvation Army worship spaces, the mercy seat –once known as the penitent form – is a place of prayer.

Physically, they range from ornately crafted works of art to flatpack benches to improvised rows of chairs or even a corps bass drum, usually situated between the platform and the main area of worship.

People typically pray at the mercy seat by kneeling in front of it and facing it – as if kneeling at Jesus’ feet – rather than sitting on the seat itself.

Spiritually, it provides a focal point to remind all of God’s reconciling and redeeming presence. The mercy seat is often used during Sunday meetings as a space for people to meet personally with God.

This is encouraged during reflective moments but is welcome at any point during the meeting.

Someone might choose to kneel at the mercy seat to seek salvation or sanctification, to make a special consecration to God’s will and service, or to respond to God calling them to the mercy seat in that moment.

How do you pray?

Consider what prayer means to you at salvationist.org.uk/ explore-faith/prayer

‘I don’t deserve the wonderful fellowship I have received’

The Rev John Lines MBE explains how he found a spiritual home at Deal Corps

IWAS born just before the Second World War, the grandson of a Salvationist. After the war, I started going to an Army citadel in south London, although I confess all I did was watch the trams going in and out of the depot opposite!

Fast forward a few years and I was madly in love with Christine, a truly wonderful woman who had attended Sunbeams at another corps. She has now been my wife for almost 63 years. At a Boys’ Brigade camp aged 18, I blurted out: ‘I want Jesus like Christine has Jesus!’ The camp padre, a Baptist minister, tapped me on the chest and said, ‘Try looking in here and not out there.’ That was the real start of my journey with Jesus.

I joined the Metropolitan Police and was stationed at Elephant and Castle.

The Salvation Army had a hostel for rough sleepers and I often dropped in. I would listen to their open-air meetings on Sundays if I was on duty

During this time I became heavily involved in the Boys’ Brigade, both locally and nationally,

and the chance to lead folk to the Lord was wonderful. I was brought into contact with the Army again as I was asked to help with Sabac (Salvation Army Boys Adventure Corps) courses in Sunbury.

I became a local preacher and a steward in the Methodist Church. I applied for candidateship and, after training, was appointed to three churches in the Slough area.

I later had the privilege of being the minister at the Whitechapel Mission, where Christine and I cared for rough sleepers. I attended the local Rotary club with an Army officer whose name I have sadly mislaid – he was Australian and a truly fine Christian! I also used to share with Captain Malcolm Doyle at Booth House Lifehouse, exchanging items to help each other’s work. God was good to us.

The Methodist Church eventually moved me to Dover to act as a chaplain to the Dover Immigration Removal Centre. When the centre closed, I felt it was time to retire. I looked around for somewhere to worship. That somewhere was Deal Corps.

work. Go The Me me to Do Dover Im the cent I looked a That som I fellows the fo is tha with I oft de s f t i p as

I really don’t deserve the wonderful fellowship that I have received from all the folk who worship there. My prayer is that I spend what time I have left with them all. Their love and spirituality give me so much and, in all honesty, I often wonder what I have done to deserve them.

That Army citadel as a youngster set my feet on a path that I never felt good enough for. Time and time again, I utter the words ‘God is good’, because I still feel his presence and guiding hand in every aspect of my life.

Have you got a testimony to share?

We’d love to hear your faith journey! Get in touch at salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk

We salv

Dear new lieutenants

MY purpose in writing to you is to lay before you what I believe we, as soldiers of our dearly loved Movement, seek from our new leaders: passion, participation, preaching and practice. My dear new officers, you face a future bright with promise and alive with potential. Don’t let setbacks hinder your progress; see them instead as learning opportunities. Call upon God daily for his

ONCE SEEN, NEVER FORGOTTEN

HAVING Salvationist come through my letterbox is wonderful. I tend to home in on the Tributes page, for even if I do not know the persons, their experiences are a blessing. In the 3 June edition was a tribute to a person I only knew as deputy songster leader at Portland: Douglas Garland. Once seen, never forgotten. When I was living in Bournemouth more

provision to bless your labours and to bless your people. Please know that God’s people in every corps need a shepherd and this lost world needs your voice more than ever. I’m sure that every local officer, soldier, adherent and friend joins me in assuring you that the Lord is with you, and it is a privilege to serve God with you in this generation.

Graham White Newtownards

than 50 years ago, Douglas was unexpectedly present in the Sunday morning meeting at Winton. Brigadier Gladys Bardell invited him to sing. He chose 720 in the current songbook. He referred to the second verse and spoke of how, through doubting, we miss out on blessings in store for us. I am so pleased to have learnt more of him and offer sincere condolences and thanks.

Michael Bennett Reading

LEADERSHIP RESOURCES

DURING the Covid-19 lockdowns, our corps officer created a meeting on paper every week, which was printed out and distributed to corps members without internet access. With so many corps currently without an officer, I feel there is a need for a similar resource to be available to those who now have responsibility for regular meeting leadership for the first time. Having access to a bank of similar material would be a great help to anyone wanting the best for their corps, but having limited knowledge and experience.

Mary Tyler Pontefract

Editor’s note We highly recommend the online Resources centre on salvationist.org.uk for themed materials, as well as the Bible study and Prayer Matters devotionals printed in Salvationist each week.

THE DEFINITION OF WORSHIP

inspires reverence, awe, praise and adoration. We must be careful not to be exclusive in attaching the word to particular groups or styles.

ON TOGETHER 2023

ON COMMISSIONING PHOTOS

‘Beautiful pic and people! God bless them all and make them a blessing.’

Danièle Norton

‘Great pictures! Praise God for each lieutenant.’

COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS? Get in touch with the Salvationist editorial team at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk or comment on Facebook @SalvationistUKI

I WAS surprised and a little saddened to read of ‘the first ever’ SA Worship Conference planned for November. I have been involved in congregational singing in the Army all my life, and I have been pleased that it has largely avoided the fragmentation that has afflicted many church congregations over the years, when some musicians have appropriated the word ‘worship’ and applied it to a particular style of music. If we speak about ‘worship bands’ and ‘worship songs’ as a category, what does that imply about other songs or bands? The Army songbook is one of the most diverse songbooks available, embracing songs in a variety of styles from the 16th to the 21st centuries. ‘Worship’ is the response of our whole lives to God, who

ON THE ISS AND ISB CONCERT

‘Beautiful concert. I was really blessed.’

YOUR VIEWS

Many years ago General Frederick Coutts said letters for publication in the Army’s press should be ‘carefully thought out, logically presented and charitably expressed’. Letters may be edited and should ideally be no more than 150 words.

‘Very enjoyable weekend.’

Gill Green

Andrea Porter

Heather Stubbs

Gordon Taylor Croydon

Picture: Andrew King Photography

Pass it on

PSALM 145

HAVE you ever found your mouth saying something while your brain simultaneously thinks: ‘Oh, no! I’m sounding like my mum or dad?’

Whether we like it or not, the experiences and habits we grow up with shape us. This idea is in the background of Psalm 145 as, with growing excitement and momentum, the psalmist conveys the powerful ways in which one generation can influence another by teaching them to praise God.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

What are some of the best things that you’ve been taught by a previous generation?

Old Testament scholar Walter Brueggemann says, perhaps with tongue in cheek: ‘Psalm 145 may be regarded as a not very interesting collection of clichés.’

At first glance, the psalm might look like a list of quite vague praise phrases that describe characteristics of God and generic reasons to praise him. However, when we dig under the surface, we discover the psalmist is using his own experience of God. He reminds us to consider God’s faithfulness in the past, to cling to God’s promises in the present and to pass on to others the knowledge of the greatness of God.

Psalm 145 is an acrostic based on each letter of the Hebrew alphabet, starting at the beginning and building to the end. It harks back to Creation – the ‘wonderful

works’ of God (v5). In speaking of God’s ‘awesome works’ and ‘great deeds’ (v6), its first listeners would recall a seminal moment in their founding story – the Exodus – when God in ‘abundant goodness’ (v7) delivered his people from captivity.

A key part of commending God’s works to someone else, it seems, involves looking back. I once heard it said that we often glimpse God’s faithfulness in the rear-view mirror of our lives. As we look back over our lives, we can see God’s hand at work in places and at times that we didn’t recognise. Similarly, if we’re looking for reasons to praise God, we can be inspired by the stories of how he has worked in previous generations. Doing so adds fuel to our worship and our longing for God in the present.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

When have you spotted God’s faithfulness after looking back?

What past work of God in your life are you thankful for today?

For the psalmist, the work of God isn’t only a past event but is also a present experience. Much of the psalm is written in the present tense. It gives God praise for the present reality of his goodness (see v9), his righteousness and faithfulness (see v17), his nearness to those who call on him (see v18) and his constant watching over those who love him (see v20). For the psalmist, being able to commend the works of

God doesn’t simply stem from what he has heard about God in the past but rather flows from his ongoing experience.

The psalmist points out that life isn’t always easy. As well as citing many blessings, he also draws on life’s struggles – feeling ‘bowed down’ (v14) and weighted by the cares of life, or feeling the desperate need to cry out to God (see v19). Even in difficulties, the psalmist calls people to worship God, irrespective of life’s storms. As one motivational poster puts it: ‘Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass but learning to dance in the rain.’ There’s some truth in that for the psalmist as he calls people to worship God whatever season they find themselves in.

One interesting way this happens is seen in the way the psalm begins with the first-person singular – the psalmist’s individual praise to God, ‘I will exalt you’ (v1) – but ends with the plural – a call for every creature to praise God ‘for ever and ever’ (v21). In other words, life’s struggles become a shared, rather than an individual, experience. As each person and generation worships God together, they learn to support one another.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

What is your present experience of God?

In difficult times, how have other people helped you to worship God?

To whom might you reach out to help them worship God today?

Captain Berri McKenna considers how receivers should also be transmitters of God’s goodness

As well as looking back and around, the psalmist looks into the future – into ‘for ever and ever’. He declares: ‘Your Kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations’ (v13).

This is incredible. The God who was faithful to our ancestors and is faithful to us will also be faithful to the generations to come. It’s a blessing, but with this blessing comes a responsibility. Those who have encountered this faithfulness have a sacred responsibility to bear witness to it to all the world and to teach others to praise God.

This is a challenging thought. As much as you might have found yourself saying ‘I’m sounding like my mum and dad’, one day someone else might find themselves noticing that they are sounding like you. What kind of words will you have shaped them to say? What things will you have commended to them?

PAUSE AND REFLECT

How are you commending God’s goodness to others?

How are you learning from other generations about what it means to praise God?

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

In August, prayers will be centred on Jesus, the restorer.

ENABLED SUMMER SCHOOL FOCUS

by Chris Stringer (Learning Disability Inclusion, THQ)

SATURDAY 5 AUGUST

Lord, as Enabled participants leave the National Star College campus for the final time, we give thanks for the many years of friendship and fellowship that they have enjoyed in Cheltenham. We pray for the next chapter as a new venue and different activities are explored for 2024. Amen.

FAMILY TRACING FOCUS

by Karen Wallace (Family Tracing Service, THQ)

SUNDAY 6 AUGUST

Pray for fathers who seek first or renewed connection with their children. Pray that where there may have been injustice and strife, God will restore them to one another, with acceptance accompanied by the joy of reconciliation.

MONDAY 7 AUGUST

Pray for mothers who yearn to be once more in relationship with their children. Pray that where there is pain and distress from separation, the day will come when they can know healing and rejoicing.

TUESDAY 8 AUGUST

Pray for brothers and sisters with broken relationships. Pray that where pride reigns, the day will come when sibling love will be restored within their common bond. Pray that in circumstances where they were taken from each other, they will find growing forgiveness towards others and love in their hearts for one another.

WEDNESDAY 9 AUGUST

Pray for the grandparents separated from their grandchildren through circumstance, spite or fear. Lord, we ask that you fill their hearts with peace and rest in you. Give them the gentle courage to go forward towards the restoration of this special connection. Amen.

THURSDAY 10 AUGUST

Pray for the many children, including those now grown, who earnestly seek reconciliation with their father or mother. Pray also for those who, perhaps in the recent discovery of their true parenthood, live with an overwhelming need to experience their blood-identity, to find and know the one from whom they came, while still loving those who care so deeply for them. Keep them strong, Lord, we pray. Amen.

FRIDAY 11 AUGUST

Lord, thank you for the gift and bond of family, whether blood-related or joined together by circumstances. Continue to bless the work of the Family Tracing Service in this territory, specifically team members Lorraine, Grace, Billy and Karen, and for colleagues in other territories who are also committed to seeking justice and reconciliation for separated families. Amen.

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.

CAPTAIN BERRI McKENNA Learning and Support Tutor William Booth College

Growing opportunities

Ahead

IT is written in Proverbs 28:19: ‘Those who work their land will have abundant food.’ Indeed, this is part of the motivation of many people who have allotments across the country. Sustainable living, the impact of international food shortages and an awareness of caring for God’s creation have led to a growing demand for community allotments – a trend not seen since the Second World War.

People are also re-evaluating their carbon footprint, including considering how their food is produced and transported.

‘We need to eat seasonal and eat local to avoid carbon emissions,’ says Territorial Environmental Officer Major Heather Poxon. ‘In many indigenous societies around the world, there are traditions of protecting the forest and respecting the rhythms and gifts of the seasons.’

The Salvation Army’s international positional statement on caring for the environment recognises that ‘the very survival of humanity depends on the health of the whole ecosystem’. Learning

about the natural world is one aspect of caring for it.

At George Williams Lifehouse, a gardening club in partnership with Fleetwood Town Football Club’s Community Trust is encouraging people to grow and nourish the centre garden. Service Manager Danielle Jones explains that young people particularly enjoy taking ‘responsibility to regularly water, weed, and take care of the plants and vegetables’.

Similarly, children at Deptford Corps have benefited from caring for creation in the hall garden. Corps officer Lieutenant Lesley Holland explains: ‘Our toddler group love being outside in the garden, and have benefited from growing sunflower seeds, some for taking home and some which are now growing in the garden.’

At Sale Corps, the community garden is used by the Toddlers Stay and Play sessions to teach about caring for creation.

‘The children visit their “Tots Plots” to water and tend to the flowers and strawberries that they are growing there,’ explains corps officer Major Ann Montgomery. ‘We also use water butts to

collect rainwater for watering the plants and have compost facilities too.’

At Watford Corps, teaching younger generations about caring for creation has become a pillar of its ministry. Every week from spring to autumn, the corps community allotment – a recognised RHS Five Star School Garden – is visited by up to 120 pupils, who enjoy growing food and flowers.

Reducing reliance on imported foods is another benefit of community allotments.

‘Cultivating, caring and co-operating to grow vegetables by interacting with nature together can be an eye-opener to many who are cut off from these organic processes under big-supermarket driven mass production systems,’ says St Albans corps officer Captain Wan Gi Lee. ‘Allotments raise awareness of the importance of growing vegetables and plants to tackle the issue of sustainable food supplies locally.’

At Deptford Corps, the Inside Out club is ambitious at sustainably producing its own homegrown food.

‘We have several raised beds where we grow fruit and veg,’ explains Lesley.

of National Allotments Week (7 to 13 August), George Tanton explores how Salvationists are unearthing the potential of green spaces

‘Families in our congregation are currently growing vegetables that will be used in corps barbecues.’

At the shared community allotment at Oldbury, corps members harvested one of God’s sweetest provisions – honey! The onsite caretaker’s cottage had a crumbling chimney and, once restoration work had begun, a beehive was revealed (pictured right). The honey was then sold in the corps community café.

Forest of Dean Corps has several food sustainability initiatives under way. Operating out of a refurbished pub, the outreach centre has a greenhouse and vegetable plot in the old pub garden, which is used by the community to grow and harvest their own produce.

Furthermore, the corps gardening club, Grow ‘n’ Sow, works in co-operation with the Plot to Pot luncheon club: one group grows the produce and the other prepares it for meals. The corps also provides agricultural space for the community to use. Excess produce is used to supplement food parcels.

Jersey Corps uses its allotment to provide a space for people with learning

difficulties. In partnership with the government’s health department, they provide weekly gardening sessions.

‘They get to choose what they grow and nurture,’ explains corps officer Captain Richard Nunn. ‘Instead of being cared for, they get to care for something.’

They take some of the produce home, some is sold in the corps honesty box and some goes into the soup that the corps makes and gives away in the town.

Southport Corps has redeveloped disused land at the back of its hall to create a community garden, which includes a fruit and veg growing area with produce donated to a local food bank. There are plans to expand these spaces.

‘This will enable us to provide more fresh produce to the local community,’ explains Community Programme and Engagement Manager Kathryn Casserley (pictured above). ‘With it being grown on our doorstep, we contribute to reducing our carbon footprint, which is more sustainable and better for the environment.’

While the idea of community allotments can sound quaint, food sustainability is a serious issue.

‘There will come a time when communities in the UK will have no option but to be resilient to food scarcity,’ warns Heather. ‘We hear of soaring temperatures and wildfires in Europe and America. With the guarantee of more to come, the production of the crops we rely on becomes more challenging.

‘High temperatures and lack of rainfall impact seedling growth. As our imported food becomes scarcer, prices rise and societal tensions in the source countries increase. As people struggle to survive, we will see greater civil unrest and an increase in climate migrants as populations migrate north to cooler climes.

‘Will we be ready to receive our neighbours? Will we be resilient and learn to rely on our own resources?’

For more about the Army’s mission priority of caring for creation, visit salvationist.org.uk/environment salvationist.org

GEORGE TANTON Editorial Assistant Salvationist

On your bikes!

Following Cycle to Work Day (3 August), three people connected with The Salvation Army share the benefits of pedal power

LIEUT-COLONEL DEAN PALLANT SECRETARY FOR COMMUNICATIONS, THQ

I cycle to work most days and I much prefer the bike to sitting on a stop-start crowded London bus.

On my route, I avoid busy south London roads as much as possible –riding through Burgess Park is the highlight. Camberwell Green is chaotic and risky!

Major David Dalziel, an experienced London cyclist, showed me the back roads from International Headquarters to south London when I started cycling 20 years ago. This advice helped me stay safe and enjoy quieter routes.

I sometimes listen to podcasts while cycling – I can still hear what’s going on around me! – and I’ve often felt God speaking through the wisdom of others. Although I don’t personally pray for protection over each journey, I think my family do!

Cycling helps both my mental and physical wellbeing – and I’ve avoided falling off so far.

ELLIOT THOMAS GENERAL COUNSEL, LEGAL DEPARTMENT, THQ

I cycle to work every day. It’s healthier and faster than public transport.

I start on my street, then I meander through the fields and trees of Brockwell Park – where I stop for a swim in the lido most days – through Brixton Market, through Max Roach Park and into Kennington Park. From there it’s a short weave through to the back of Elephant Park. I’m done in 25 minutes max.

Mark Twain said that ‘melancholy and riding a bike are incompatible’. Life is more joyful on a bike; when I cycle I feel God’s pleasure. Praying for protection over each journey isn’t something I do regularly, although I am practising contemplative prayer, seeking to let go of control and allow God to live through me and accept that which he puts before me.

Cycling to work gives me more time, more joy, more awareness of the seasons, more health – and more excuses for eating cake!

CAPTAIN AMY-JO BATTERSBY SHOTTS

I cycle for work, a few times a week if I am working very locally, although it is dependent on the weather!

It is faster than driving. It allows me the time to do things I wouldn’t have time for if I chose to walk, but also means I feel more present in the community than if I drove.

From my home to the corps is only about 150m. But to the school or shop and many of my pastoral visits it’s longer and, because the town is so close-knit, I meet a lot of people along the way and say hello.

I speak to God on my travels. I’m working on letting God in to speak to me at these times. It is a challenge now because the roads don’t always feel safe for cyclists, so I don’t feel like I can tune enough out to hear God and I pray for protection over each journey.

I grew up in the Netherlands. Cycling is part of who I am and it’s cheap and better for my health than other transport. I do lots of walking, so this is more impact-friendly on my body and helps me keep active even during recovery.

SATCoL launches world-first technology to reduce waste

KETTERING

THE Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd, the trading arm of The Salvation Army, has unveiled plans for a worldfirst recycling system to reduce textile waste.

Project Re:claim, a joint venture with leading corporate wear specialists Project Plan B, has successfully recycled polyester textiles back into raw material.

Project Plan B developed the exclusive polyester recycling system, which is based on plastic bottle recycling principles. SATCoL is the UK’s largest charity textile collector and already sorts and processes around 65,000 tonnes of donated textiles every year. It will install the machine in September.

Majonne Frost, SATCoL’s Head of Environment and Sustainability, said: ‘Last year SATCoL enabled reuse and recycling of over 250 million products, but there are always items which we cannot resell and they are often garments made from polyester.

‘With this new technology we can give these clothes a new lease of life. When your favourite jumper is worn out, we will take it and turn it into polyester pellets, ready to be made into a new jumper. This is the future of fashion.’

The new plant will recycle around 2,500 tonnes in its first year, rising to 5,000 tonnes in year two, and aims to recycle polyester that has come to the end of its useful life.

Tim Cross, CEO at Project Plan B, commented: ‘We need a seismic change in how garments are designed and produced. Polyester textile recycling is one of the biggest opportunities to reduce the harmful impact of producing garments and this new technology is the first proven commercial-scale system that has been designed to cope with the challenges of recycling postconsumer clothing.’

To maximise the volume and potential of the polyester recycling, SATCoL cannot rely on clothing bank donations alone and is searching for corporate partners to commit to donating 100 per

cent polyester textiles now.

Majonne added: ‘Our vision is to enable companies to produce corporate wear and fashion garments using recycled polyester. The incredible vision of Project Plan B has brought about the development of the technology. We have the infrastructure to collect donations at scale and we now need companies to step up and make a commitment to significantly reduce their environmental impact.

‘The launch of Project Re:claim has come at a really good time and we’re already seeing a lot of interest from brands and retailers.’

SATCoL already has the UK’s only automated textile sorting facility, Fibersort, at its purpose-built processing centre in Kettering. Fibersort automatically identifies and sorts second-hand textiles by fibre type and

colour – the first step in textile-totextile recycling.

This additional new technology is the next step towards SATCoL’s ambition to create the UK’s first fibre farm, with the aim of massively scaling up textile-totextile recycling of all types of materials.

Another area of interest to SATCoL is trim-clean technology. A number of companies are developing machines that will cut garments up and remove any zips, buttons and labels. SATCoL is supporting this development, for example by sending trial batches of worn-out clothing.

Majonne concludes: ‘The Army’s mission priority of caring for creation is at the core of our business. We collaborate with all kinds of different players across the whole industry and see ourselves at the heart of the circular economy.’ – LW

Motherwell Growth through outreach

FAST FACTS

DIVISION: Central and Southern Scotland

COMMUNITY MISSION

DEVELOPMENT WORKER: Bobby Roberts

FIND US ONLINE: salvationarmy.org.uk/motherwell

EMBRACING EVOLUTION

The corps celebrated its 125th anniversary in February, which was led by previous corps officer Major Ian Emery (North West and Isle of Man DHQ). The once thriving corps had become a fellowship of mainly older people and had slowed down when the Covid-19 pandemic struck.

Majors James and June Rorie have stepped up to lead the corps in recent years and they still play a very active part. DHQ responded to Major June’s request for extra support with corps community work and she was encouraged by their support when they appointed Bobby Roberts (Bellshill) as community mission development worker in September 2022.

Major June says: ‘It’s a very exciting time for the corps with Bobby coming on board. Seeing it open up, people hearing what we’re about, who we are, what we stand for and what we can do to help them.’

Bobby says: ‘I walked in here before I started the role and was made so welcome. It’s been the same ever since, everyone’s been so supportive and accepting. This corps has a great foundation, it’s focused on God foremost, there’s a real warmth and we are bringing God to the community.’

ACTIVITIES FOR ALL

A programme of community activities is emerging.

A new group has started holding regular family fun days aimed at single parent families, an offshoot from the parenting charity Best Beginnings. Corps members expressed a desire for a walking group, which is open to everyone, and this is under way as an excellent opportunity to combine mission and wellbeing.

The college in Motherwell contacted Bobby with a view to their beauty therapy students providing pamper sessions for unpaid carers at the hall. They set up a mini salon, offering hairdressing, massage and manicures. A light lunch is provided for the carers. This initiative is going very well and is greatly appreciated.

We have a weekly after-school club for 10 to 14-year-olds. This activity is slowly building and gives us an opportunity to interact with the young people.

PERSISTENCE IN PRAYER

We need more prayer for continued revitalisation of the corps. Our vision is to see the corps grow through the mission outreach. We are praying for the leadership team as they support the ongoing mission. As footfall in our building increases, we also pray that a team of volunteers will come forward to help with our programme. We are so blessed to be actively engaging with the community and believe that God will take us from a place of survival to revival in his name.

Walking group

James, June and Bobby

Salvation Army officially recognised THAILAND

FOLLOWING a meeting of the General’s Council on 13 June, General Brian Peddle has approved the official recognition of the commencement of the Army’s work in the Kingdom of Thailand, making it the 134th country in which The Salvation Army has a legally and officially recognised ministry.

Although the registration process began in 2016, it was only on 28 April 2023 that the government of Chiang Province approved the establishment of The Salvation Army, with the work in Thailand coming under the direction of the Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar Territory.

The Salvation Army began to explore the possibility of ministry in the country during a visit to Chiang Mai in 2012. As a developing country, with a population approaching 70 million, Army leadership recognised the need to evangelise and spread the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The activities of The Salvation Army in Thailand have been diverse, including assisting flood victims, visiting prisons, and offering support to people experiencing homelessness and living in poverty. Other work to share the good news has included camps for underprivileged children, sports ministry, team and women’s group Bible studies, fundraising, fellowship

REMEMBRANCE

Eket stadium funeral follows fatal accident

NIGERIA

FOLLOWING the tragic and fatal road accident in the Akwa Ibom South East Division, Territorial Commander Commissioner Daniel Kasuso and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Tracey Kasuso visited the bereaved families to offer counsel and reassurance of God’s continual love.

Prayers and messages of hope and comfort were given in moments of reflection as the families of those promoted to Glory shared their feelings with the commissioners.

The funeral was held in the Eket Stadium and was attended by thousands of mourners. Immediately after, each casket was conveyed to its respective home for a brief committal, with officers assigned to perform each ceremony.

Officers promoted to Glory in the accident include Major Unyime Ekere and Major Mary Ekere (Afaha Eket), Major Sunday Sampson and Major Ofonime Sampson (Ikot Uso Ekong), Major Emem Friday Obot and Lieutenant Nseobong Obot (Ndukpoise), Captain Edet Umana and Captain Mfonobong Umana (Oron), Major Emem Udobong (Akai Children’s Home), Lieutenant Margaret Udoh (Ikot Eyo) and Lieutenant James Etukakpan (Ete).

Also promoted to Glory in the accident were the driver, Christian Etukakpan – a brother of Lieutenant James – and Gabriella James Etukakpan, the 17-month-old daughter of Lieutenant James and Blessing Etukakpan. All officers promoted to Glory as a result of the accident are survived by their children.

The international Salvation Army requests continued prayers for the bereaved and injured. – CA

events, men’s fellowship gatherings and home visits.

Pioneering work in Chiang Mai was undertaken in August 2014 when IHQ appointed Majors Ken and Neva Phiouthong to initiate research and development, work that continued to advance under subsequent officers and lay personnel. There has been a worshipping community since 2015, with the joyful enrolment of soldiers under each leadership team.

Currently the corps has 15 soldiers, eight recruits for soldiership, five Sunday school participants, six corps council members, eight in the women’s group and seven people attending online meetings. – HH

ARMY NEWS

Salvationist Radio launches on apps and Alexa

THQ

SALVATIONIST Radio listeners can now tune in to their favourite programmes and playlists via Apple and Android apps and commands for Alexa smart speakers.

The new app features a radio player, the programme schedule and articles from salvationist.org.uk. It’s free to download from the App Store and Google Play Store, while the instructions for setting up the Alexa command can be found at salvationist.org.uk/radio/alexa

Audio Content Editor Sam Davidson said: ‘We know Salvationist Radio is valued company for many people throughout the week, and now it’s even easier to tune in on mobiles, tablets and Alexa devices.

‘It’s been great to hear from listeners enjoying the new station, especially our weekly Sunday programmes such as Sunday Wake-Up with Lyndall Bywater, Morning Praise with Kids Alive!, Sunday Worship and Sunday Lunch

‘We’re working hard behind the scenes to build on the current schedule and offer even more content that reflects the diverse interests and musical tastes of people across the territory. We’ve got some exciting new shows and podcasts coming soon – so watch this space!’

Salvationist Radio is an online radio station for everyone linked to The Salvation Army and anyone who wants to explore faith. It plays Salvation Army and Christian music 24/7, and broadcasts special programmes for all ages on Sundays. – AR

International leaders inspire TORONTO

GENERAL Brian Peddle and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Rosalie Peddle received a warm welcome as they returned home to the Canada and Bermuda Territory for the Inspire Conference and Congress, which brought together Salvationists, employees and volunteers from across the territory.

The visit began on a fun note as the General participated in Salvation Army Night with Major League Baseball’s Toronto Blue Jays by throwing the ceremonial first pitch of the game (pictured).

At Toronto’s historic Massey Hall, the General and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle were led into the auditorium by the Gitwinksihlkw Four Crest Dancers, a Nisga’a cultural singing and dancing group from British Columbia. Prayers were offered in Cantonese, English, French, Korean, Nisga’a and Spanish.

The General and Territorial Commander Commissioner Floyd Tidd presented the Award of Exceptional Service to Major Len Ballantine, for his contributions to the Army’s mission and ministry, and Sharon Wynne, for her service as an executive assistant to 15 divisional commanders.

The following morning, 11 cadets and 2 aux-captains of the Reflectors of Holiness session were commissioned. The General reminded everyone that they must also reflect the holiness of Christ.

That evening, Michelle (Wetaskiwin – Alberta and Northern Territories Division) was awarded the inaugural Territorial Commander’s Youth Leadership Award for ‘exceptional service, outstanding commitment and extraordinary innovation offered by a young person to give hope to those in need’.

In Sunday’s holiness meeting, an award of Exceptional Service was presented by General Brian Peddle and Commissioner Floyd to Major Lucy Pilgrim and her late husband, Major Warrick Pilgrim, in recognition of their significant post-retirement service.

On the final night, the international leaders attended a gala dinner honouring those who had given exemplary service during the Covid-19 pandemic. – AR

ENVIRONMENT

KETTERING Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves MP visited Kettering Citadel. Her father served in the band and she volunteered in the corps charity shop for work experience. She also visited the SATCoL recycling centre to see its new Fibersort technology in action. – AR

MUSIC

HASTINGS TEMPLE Many people paused in their Saturday afternoon stroll to listen to Romford Band giving an hourlong witness themed around Jesus the Light of the World. Salvationists mingled with the crowd having many good conversations. The band continued its weekend visit with an evening concert and the theme ran throughout the Sunday meetings and open-air ministry. – MS

ENVIRONMENT

OPENSHAW A fashion show in collaboration with the local SATCoL charity shop raised £250. The models included shop volunteers, officers, managers, church members and even the Morrisons community champion, encompassing a diversity of race, gender, age and ability. All the clothes came from the charity shop, which ran a 25 per cent discount on the night. The show promoted themes of recycling and caring for creation, and was filled with laughter from start to finish! – JB/JB

EVENT

SKEWEN Adrian Morgan and CSM Stephen Hopkins (both Llanelli) led the morning and afternoon meetings. Adrian took the theme Not Fit for Purpose and, referring to John 15:1–8 and 2 Kings 6, asked the congregation: Do you need spiritual oil to sharpen you? Is your spiritual battery flat? Stephen spoke about grace, using 2 Corinthians 13:5–14, and reminded everyone present that God’s grace is sufficient. It was a day rich with blessings. – SL

HAROLD HILL The recent Alpha course away day, held in the beautiful setting of Stapleford Tawney, was inspiring and significant for all who attended. – PG

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

Growth and pioneering work THE NETHERLANDS, CZECH REPUBLIC AND SLOVAKIA

THE visit of international leaders General Brian Peddle and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Rosalie Peddle to the territory was a time of blessing and encouragement, marked by the admission of two people to the Order of the Founder.

Focusing on the Czech Republic and Slovakia regions of the territory, the General and Commissioner Peddle were given an overview of the growth and pioneering work in these two countries. This included the General opening the first ‘wet’ hostel – a shelter for those experiencing homelessness and struggling with alcohol addiction – in Plzen.

The General and Commissioner Rosalie visited a number of Roma settlements, where they were moved by the difficult situations that can be found in central Europe.

BELFAST SYDENHAM The annual YP prizegiving began with a barbecue and outdoor activities on Saturday. On Sunday more than 30 prizes were awarded, which was followed by performances from the YP band and singing company. The primary also took part and the young people presented the parable of the good TikToker. – KW

EMERGENCY AID

UK Amid the recent heatwave, The Salvation Army was on hand to support the emergency services and rough sleepers as temperatures soared. They provided water, sun cream, suitable clothing and emotional support to rough sleepers, and refreshments and pastoral support to emergency workers attending major incidents. This included supporting firefighters at four incidents in London, a blaze at an office building in Leicestershire, a wildfire in southern Wales and a large fire at a farm near Ipswich. – AR

COST OF LIVING

LEEDS Rail commuters and members of the public showed their generosity by donating food to help people struggling with the cost of living crisis, as part of a national partnership between The Salvation Army and Network Rail. Volunteers from the rail service were at Leeds Station collecting items to distribute at Leeds Central. More donation stations are planned in the future. – AR

The Salvation Army in Slovakia has focused on working with Roma children by establishing three kindergartens. The international leaders were impressed by their excellent facilities and the heart, perseverance and expertise of the teaching staff.

further about the work commencing in the east of Slovakia among a Roma settlement of more than 7,000 people.

The visit culminated in the covenant service, Silver Star meeting and the commissioning of eight lieutenants of the Reflectors of Holiness session.

A special moment was when Envoys Henny and Koos Tinga were admitted to the Order of the Founder for ‘outstanding dedication and selfless service to the most marginalised and vulnerable’, including ‘pioneering work within the Red Light district of Amsterdam and the Czech Republic’.

The General and Commissioner Rosalie are pictured with Envoys Koos and Henny Tinga and Territorial Commander Commissioner Bente Gundersen. – AR

OUTREACH

CIRENCESTER An open-air Songs of Praise in the Abbey grounds within the centre of the town attracted many passers-by, a number of whom stayed to join in and select their favourite songs. – MG

MAIDSTONE

SANDRA Wilkins was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Captain Marion Rouffet. Sandra’s friend, Terry Haisman – also an adherent – thanked everybody on her behalf for making it a pleasure for her to come and worship each Sunday. Joining the church family made the day very special for Sandra. Holding the flag is John Boyd. – GP

CHELMSFORD

CAPTAIN Chris Baker (Torquay) enrolled her granddaughter, Eleanor, as a junior soldier. They are pictured with corps officer Major Tracey Mountford (seated), supported by Junior Soldiers Sergeant Tania Smith (left), Children’s Ministry Team Leader Sue Farrar and Band Librarian John Farrar holding the flag. – TM

SALE

RINGWOOD

CORPS officer Major Emanuele Carpagnano welcomed Brian Thomas, Catherine Thomas, Joyce Down, Donna Mintern, Patricia Scott and Brian Hammond as adherents. They have all attended meetings for some time but knew the Lord was leading them to this next stage in their faith journeys, which is a great encouragement and a blessing to the corps. Prayer Co-ordinator Major Pat Risdale (also pictured) prayed an individual prayer of blessing over them. – EC

EASTBOURNE CITADEL

HELEN Blake and Bethany Restell were enrolled as soldiers during the 133rd corps anniversary celebrations by corps officer Captain Mark Kent. Helen and Bethany were supported by family and friends. Also pictured is Major Rosemary Randall, who guided them through soldiership classes. – MK

HARRIET Anyon was enrolled as a soldier by corps officers Majors Ann and Donald Montgomery. Harriet spoke of her faith and the leading of the Holy Spirit in her life. It was lovely to have friends and family in the congregation who offered support and encouragement as she made her commitment in this way. Harriet is pictured with Majors Ann and Donald and Colour Sergeant Ian Whiteside. – AM

LONG EATON CAROLE Duckenfield was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Captain Jan Sebbage during a meeting themed around Belonging. Carole began attending in February after many years away from the Army and expressed her desire to formally ‘belong’ again. – JS

PAISLEY CITADEL

DERBY CENTRAL

ROBERT and Valerie Mann were welcomed as adherents by corps officers Majors Elaine and Mark Holder. They were encouraged and supported by Recruiting Sergeant Ruth Watson (also pictured). – EH

AUDREY McCrone and Gill McGourlay were enrolled as soldiers by corps officers Captain Megan Kervin and Lieutenant Elliot Kervin. Audrey first came to the Army in 2017 when she was encouraged to attend fellowship band rehearsals. She soon made the Army her place of worship and, after attending a Design for Life weekend, felt the Lord calling her to explore soldiership. Gill has been a member of the corps for nine years, many of those as an adherent, and is involved in the music sections. She wanted to explore soldiership and testified about the welcome she received at the corps and about what being a disciple means for her daily living. Audrey and Gill are both actively involved in the music sections. The meeting featured songs that were important to both Audrey and Gill in their childhoods and in their journey since joining the Army. – EK

DROITWICH SPA

RACHEL Woolfenden, Colin Beesley and Catherine Baskerville were welcomed as adherents by corps officer Major Sandra Collins. Rachel and Colin have been attending with their families for some time and wanted to commit to become adherents. Catherine came as a volunteer to the weekly Lunch Club and accepted an invitation to Sunday worship. The corps rejoices in new people attending and new commitments made. – SC

MILTON KEYNES CENTRAL

ALISON Thompson was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Carole Gadsden. Alison previously had connections with other corps and felt that soldiership was the next step in her journey. She chose 1 Corinthians 13 and the song ‘Be Still, for the Presence of the Lord’ (SASB 353) for the meeting. Chocolate cake helped continue the celebrations afterwards. – CG

WIMBORNE

LYDIA, Kudiwe, Robert, Ochineme, Matthew, Kelsey and Campbell were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Major Stephen Baker. Pictured left are Lydia and Kudiwe with Major Stephen. Pictured right are Robert, Ochineme, Matthew, Kelsey and Campbell. – JB

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE ENGAGEMENTS

Appointed

Effective 13 July

MAJOR MICHAEL BARKER , additional appointment, Divisional Ecumenical Officer, Yorkshire and Humber Division

MAJOR NICOLA BARKER , additional appointment, Divisional Ecumenical Officer, Yorkshire and Humber Division

MAJOR CHRISTOPHER

SANDS, rescinding of appointment, Corps Officer: Burgess Hill

TERRITORIAL ENVOY ANDY

TONKS, additional appointment, Divisional Safeguarding Officer (one day a week), North West and Isle of Man Division

Effective 20 July

MAJOR KAY

CULLINGWORTH, additional appointment, Divisional Personnel Officer (two days a week), Yorkshire and Humber Division

CAPTAIN MICHAEL HUTCHINGS, additional appointment, Territorial Whole-Life Discipleship Officer

Effective 3 August

MAJOR JOANNE WALTERS, additional appointment, Divisional Candidates Officer, Wales Division

Effective 1 September

MAJOR JANE-MARIE AND CAPTAIN TIM COOK , change of designation, Ballymoney and Causeway Coast

CAPTAIN ADRIAN ALLEN, additional appointment, Intercultural Mission Officer (one day a month)

CAPTAIN KAY BLUES, additional appointment, Intercultural Mission Officer (one day a month)

LIEUT-COLONEL EDGAR CHAGAS, additional appointment, Intercultural Mission Officer (one day a month)

LIEUT-COLONEL SARA CHAGAS, additional appointment, Intercultural Mission Officer (one day a month)

CAPTAIN WAN GI LEE, additional appointment, Intercultural Mission Officer (one day a month)

MAJOR MARJORY

PARROTT, additional appointment, Intercultural Mission Officer (one day a month)

MAJOR MARK WAGHORN, additional appointment, Intercultural Mission Officer (one day a month)

CAPTAIN LIZETTE WILLIAMS, additional appointment, Intercultural Mission Officer (one day a month)

CAPTAIN PAUL WILLIAMS, additional appointment, Intercultural Mission Officer (one day a month)

LIEUTENANT NAZIA YOUSAF, additional appointment, Intercultural Mission Officer (one day a month)

CAPTAIN ANDREW HAMMOND, Programme Officer, International College for Officers

Promoted to Glory

BRIAN OSBORNE, Norwich Citadel, on 27 May

RTD BM BRAMWELL GIBBS, Peterborough Citadel, on 6 July

JOHN FORWOOD, Morriston, on 16 July

MAJOR MARY HARTLEY, from Waterfield House care home, Hadleigh, on 20 July

SONGSTER BERYL

HISCOCK , Morriston, on 21 July

RTD BM GODFREY

PACKHAM, Nelson

RTD S/SGT KATHLEEN

SHERIDAN, Chester-le-Street

RAYMOND GRASSHAM, Stockport Citadel

Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill and Commissioner Gill Cotterill

Mon 7 Aug IHQ (Welcome to General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham)

Sat 19 Aug Inauguration of the Central and Southern Scotland Division and installation of divisional commander

Sun 20 Aug Kirkcaldy

Chief Secretary Colonel Paul Main and Colonel Jenine Main

Mon 7 Aug Welcome to General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

Sat 19 Aug Inauguration of the Central and Southern Scotland Division and installation of the divisional commander

Sun 20 Aug Govan

NOTICES

Summer ministry opportunities

Bereaved

CAPTAIN NICOLA HAMMOND, Business Services Officer, International College for Officers

Effective 14 September

LIEUTENANT REBEKAH

FROST, Associate Officer, Stafford

Local officers appointed

OASIS GROUP LEADER SUE DEVEREUX , Dunstable

OASIS GROUP TREASURER PAT GREGORY, Dunstable Wedding anniversaries

Diamond (60 years)

ANN AND ANTHONY SPARKES, Droitwich Spa, on 17 August

Golden (50 years)

MURIEL AND STUART

GARMAN, Sheringham, on 11 August

Dedicated to God

SEVE GORDON and Lorenzo Charles, sons of Colin and Hannah Hill, at Guisborough by Major Fiona Mugford

Retired officers’ birthdays

MAJOR HILDA BALL , 100 on 20 August

JOSIE OSBORNE, Norwich Citadel, of her husband

Brian Osborne, Sue Benson, Norwich Citadel, Trudi

Gilbert and Stephen Osborne of their father

PATRICIA GIBBS, Peterborough Citadel, of her husband Rtd BM Bramwell Gibbs, Major Raelton Gibbs, IHQ, and Major Lynden Gibbs, THQ, of their father

BANDSMAN/SONGSTER

WAYNE FORWOOD and Bandswoman/Songster

Cheryl Webster, both Morriston, of their father

John Forwood

CHRISTINE HARTLEY, Stevenage, of her mother

Major Mary Hartley

RTD CS ADRIAN HISCOCK , Morriston, and Nigel Hiscock of their mother Songster

Beryl Hiscock

MAJOR ELSIE GRASSHAM of her brother Raymond

Grassham

Official Gazette

Promotions

To major – effective 25 July

CAPTAIN SUE WHITLA , Limavady

COMMISSIONER

ANTHONY COTTERILL Territorial Commander

SOUNDS

Sunday Worship

This weekend’s Sunday Worship will feature a Bible message from Online Content Editor Bethany Gibson about equity and equality. Can’t join us at 11am on Salvationist Radio? Catch up with the weekly podcast of Sunday Worship highlights, including music and prayer. Each week’s broadcast is also repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.

Listen at salvationist.org.uk/radio

This Is My Story

Salvationist Radio’s new podcast shares testimonies to encourage and inspire. In the latest episode, Lieutenant Jackie Littlewood (Worksop) shares how God’s power has equipped her for ministry as a Salvation Army officer.

Listen at salvationist.org.uk/ podcasts

Many local mission expressions take a much-needed break over the summer, but it can also be an opportunity to explore new areas of ministry. Visit salvationist.org.uk for a mix of alternative summer-themed ideas and resources to support worship and midweek activities. Salvationist

AS they transferred to the songster reserve, Daisy Latimer and Patricia Bainbridge were thanked and given a time of rest, having contributed 125 years’ service between them. Well done, good and faithful ladies! The corps fellowship is grateful to them for their commitment to the songsters and believes that God is smiling down on them both. Daisy and Pat are pictured with Songster Leader Gloria Keers. – VO

THE corps fellowship recognised and thanked Alistair Campbell for his nine years’ service as YP band leader. Alistair handed over the baton to YP Band Leader Dean Davoll. Pictured are Alistair, Dean and corps officer Major Donald Montgomery. – AM

SOUTH WOODHAM FERRERS

SOUTHWARK

DIVISIONAL Envoy Olive Anstead received a distinguished service award from town mayor Councillor Donna Eley in recognition of establishing The Salvation Army in the town in 1989 with her husband, George. The home league continues to meet weekly and Olive maintains relationships with all who attend. Olive is committed to ministry to the community, leading services, visiting the sick and older people and conducting funeral services. – BM

AN informal gathering for spiritual leaders and mission and ministry partners within the division was held to mark farewell to Divisional Commander Major Val Mylechreest after six years of leadership, as well as the closure of the South London Division. Major Val was presented with plants, flowers and gifts, which included a pictorial book of recent years, and words of thanks and encouragement were spoken to mark a legacy of leadership that was ‘full of joy, honest and accountable’. The divisional team were acknowledged for their investment in the life of the division and recognition of the onward moves of the full-time officer team from their divisional roles. The event concluded with the singing of ‘How Great Is Our God’ (SASB 64) and cutting of a cake. –

BELFAST SYDENHAM

A FULL hall and online audience were treated to a musical evening giving thanks to God for the faithful service of many songsters and band members. Long-service awards were presented to Major Jacqui Wright for more than 50 years’ service and to Pat Baxter, Jackie Brown, Ronnie Crooks, John Sharpe and Sadie Sharpe for more than 60 years’ service. Iris Crooks and Hammie Boyd were recognised for more than 70 years’ service and Miriam Currie for more than 75 years’ continuous service. They are pictured with corps officers Majors Graham and Keira Wood, Songster Leader Chelsea Stubbington and Bandmaster Philip Pentland. The evening concluded with the band and songsters uniting for ‘Depth of Mercy!’ (SASB 457) to the tune of ‘Dee St’, which was the address of the hall until 1995. The corps gives God all the glory for these faithful servants and their witness and testimony. – PP