Salvationist 5 December 2020 by The Salvation Army UK and Ireland

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Service with a smile at Southwark Young People Service

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RETURNING TO WORK DURING A PANDEMIC

PAGES 10 AND 11

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

ARCHAEOLOGIST ‘HAS FOUND CHILDHOOD HOME OF JESUS’ There is a strong case that a well-preserved 1st-century house excavated at Nazareth was the childhood home of Jesus, a British archaeologist has claimed. Ken Dark, professor of archaeology and history at Reading University, said that a 19th-century identification of ruins at the Sisters of Nazareth Convent as the house of Joseph had been dismissed out of hand by archaeologists in the 1930s and rejected by scholars ever since. However, his findings, after 14 years of fieldwork and research on the site in northern Israel, confirm for the first time that the convent stands over a 1st-century dwelling that was believed from at least the 380s to have been where Jesus grew up with Mary and Joseph. The house, of which significant portions, including a rock-cut staircase, survive, probably included a number of living and storage rooms around a courtyard, and a roof terrace. In his book, The Sisters Of Nazareth Convent: A Roman-Period, Byzantine And Crusader Site In Central Nazareth, he says that study of the twostorey house revealed excellent craftsmanship and a structural understanding of rock that would be consistent with it having been built and owned by a tekton. This was the original Greek description of Joseph’s occupation.

ZOOM AT THE INN: SCHOOL NATIVITIES GO ONLINE About half of primary schools will not be putting on a Nativity play at Christmas this year because of the pandemic, while the rest are planning virtual performances of one kind or another, a Teacher Tapp survey of 1,483 schools suggested... ‘Almost no one is even holding out hope of having visitors,’ the survey reports. The Midlands reported the fewest: only 39 per cent were planning a Nativity play, compared with 52 per cent in the South East... Many schools are planning to create a DVD and send a copy to every family: something that has been welcomed by parents, and which addresses safeguarding concerns about recordings on the internet. Church Times

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Salvationist 5 December 2020

The Guardian

The Archbishop of Canterbury has urged people to return to church on Christmas Day, as social distancing rules are relaxed over the festive period. Places of worship can open in England in all areas from 2 December, but worshippers cannot interact with anyone outside their household or support bubble under Tier 2 and 3 restrictions. [The] Most Rev Welby said that people should not be put off physically attending worship on 25 December, describing churches as ‘one of the safest places going at the moment’. The archbishop told BBC’s Newsnight... ‘Go to church online. Go to church physically. ‘You’ll find that far fewer people will be there, because we’re keeping people two metres apart... ‘Remember at the heart of Christmas is the gift of Jesus Christ, by God, to give us hope and life and a future. And it’s that hope that’s at the centre of Christmas...’ Mr Welby also said people should see their relatives if they can ‘in a way that keeps them safe’ to ‘tackle the really dangerous epidemic of isolation’. Premier

EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – 020 7367 4901

One in five offences recorded by police during and immediately after the first national lockdown in England and Wales involved domestic abuse, figures have revealed. Police recorded more than a quarter of a million offences flagged as domestic abuse-related from April to June, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said. The 259,324 offences represent a rise of 7 per cent from the same period in 2019... The ONS said the number... had been increasing over recent years so it could not be determined whether the rise was due directly to the pandemic.

ARCHBISHOP URGES PEOPLE TO RETURN TO CHURCH ON CHRISTMAS DAY

The Times

Staff are working from home and may not be contactable by phone or able to deal with non-electronic correspondence

FIFTH OF CRIMES INVOLVED DOMESTIC ABUSE IN FIRST ENGLAND AND WALES LOCKDOWN

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Mal Davies

CONTACT SALVATIONIST 020 7367 4890 salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk Find Salvationist on Facebook SalvationistOnline Find Salvationist on Twitter @SalvationistUK

CONTENTS

WORDS OF THE YEAR A FEW weeks ago the Collins English Dictionary named ‘lockdown’ as its word of the year. A spokesperson said they chose it because it ‘encapsulates the experience of billions who have had to restrict their daily lives’. It was then the turn of the Oxford English Dictionary, but it couldn’t make up its mind. For the first time, it chose not to name a word of the year, describing 2020 as ‘a year which cannot be neatly accommodated in one single word’. Instead, it announced a number of ‘words of an unprecedented year’. Those words included ‘unprecedented’ itself, along with ‘coronavirus’, ‘lockdown’, ‘pandemic’, ‘bubbles’, ‘furlough’ and ‘unmute’. Most of those words have been used in Salvationist since March. See how many you can spot this week! On pages 10 and 11 Rosalyn Rudran writes about her experience of going back to work (at home) in the midst of the pandemic after having been away on maternity leave. She uses some of those words of the year as she looks back over the challenges and the joys of recent months. ‘God was the constant throughout,’ she says, and uses words to describe God that might well be words of the year for those who put their trust in him: ‘unmoving’, ‘unchanging’, ‘steadfast’ and ‘sure’. On pages 12 and 13 a few of the staff team at Southwark Young People Service focus on two words that have been put together this year: ‘social’ and ‘distancing’. They share their thoughts about ‘being social’ while social distancing. Rosanna Amour describes what that has meant practically at their shared community houses, Ivan Congreve looks at what it means for a person’s self-worth and Major Karen Cardy reflects on the spirituality of being social. The Territorial Commander highlights the words ‘hands’, ‘face’ and ‘space’ on page 4 and considers what finding space might mean for us during Advent. On page 9 Major Liesl Baldwin reflects on the impact of the carol ‘A Starry Night’, with its words of hope. Two notable words feature in this month’s ‘More rear-mirror views’ by General John Larsson (Retired). They were spoken by the Queen in the aftermath of the Aberfan disaster in 1966 and were words that ‘Salvationists ought to treasure’. Turn to page 14 to find out what they are. Two French words, ‘déjà vu’, are the theme of Trevor Caffull’s article on page 15, in which he reflects on the recent second lockdown in England and looks to the future. On page 20 Richard Smart talks about his experiences of sharing the printed word by distributing the Army’s papers. He mentions some of the positive encounters he’s had with people while selling War Cry and Kids Alive! on the streets, and encourages others to get out there and do the same. There is no doubt that words have power. They can build people up or tear them down, inspire them or discourage them, clarify or confuse and communicate truth or falsehood. May we be people whose words bring light and hope at the end of what has been a dark year for many. And may we find opportunities to share the good news of Jesus, of whom Peter rightly said, ‘You have the words of eternal life’ ( John 6:68).

Quotes from the media

Message from the Territorial Commander

News News feature Soup, soap and sanitiser

Interview Golden opportunity

Ben Gilbert talks to Violet Ruria

Advent reflection And their hearts believed again

by Major Liesl Baldwin

Reflection 10 and 11 The best of times, the worst of times by Rosalyn Rudran

Feature 12 and 13 Loving our neighbour from a distance by Rosanna Amour, Major Karen Cardy and Ivan Congreve

More rear-mirror views Two words to treasure

by General John Larsson (Retired)

Reflection Déjà vu all over again

by Trevor Caffull

Bible study 16 and 17 World turned upside down by Captain Mark Cotterill

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17 by Lieut-Colonel Ray Oakley

Letters

Lockdown diary Week 3

by Major Karen Sandford

Interview Sharing the good news

with Richard Smart

Heralds Christmas greeting

Preview Faith In The City Of London by Niki Gorick

Announcements

Prayer matters

Adverts

From the Editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

5 and 6

23 and 24

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

Salvationist 5 December 2020

A MESSAGE FROM THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

Finding space for God One of my favourite Joy Webb songs is ‘The Candle Of The Lord’. How great the darkness, how deep the need! How vast the problems of indifference, hate and greed. A world rejecting the truth once known And slipping down into a nightmare of its own. Is there a light that’s strong enough to go, And metamorphasise the darkness that we know?

S we move through December we continue to follow the guidelines from our respective governments in order to combat the coronavirus. In England, we’re constantly being told it’s all about ‘hands, face and space’, and there might be a hidden message there for us. We need to raise our hands in worship to God. We need to have our hands and our hearts washed and cleansed. We need our hands to be open in service for our communities. We also need to seek the blessing of God upon our lives. God told Moses to tell Aaron and his sons to bless the people of Israel with these words: ‘The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face towards you and give you peace’ (Numbers 6:24–26). And in turn, we need our faces to reflect the glory of God in our hearts and lives, as was the case for Moses when he came back from the presence of God having received the ten commandments. Hands, face and space. During Advent we need to seek space. It’s a time to prepare our hearts and minds for the celebration of Christ’s coming. For many people, Advent and Christmas have merged together; from the beginning of December we’re full into Christmas activity. We don’t have the space to stop, reflect and prepare. So when we arrive at Christmas Day most of us are exhausted. It’s a shame, because from 25 December there should be 12 days of celebration. We traditionally have four Advent candles representing hope, peace, joy and love, and together they symbolise the coming of Jesus, Light of the World. 4

Salvationist 5 December 2020

Being in the dark can be unnerving. I remember the first time I went to the famous Chislehurst caves in south London. We were 30 metres or so underground when our guide turned his light off and we were in pitch darkness. It’s a labyrinth, and we couldn’t possibly have got back out without light. What a relief it was when the light came back on! I also remember a series of power cuts due to industrial action in the 1970s. One night I was at YP band practice at Croydon Citadel where the band leader had rigged up a light linked to a car battery. Afterwards I walked home with a family who lived near me. It was fine until they went into their house and I was on my own. There were no street lights on, and I ran down the middle of the road for fear of what might be lurking in the alleys or gardens on the way. Generally speaking, we don’t like the dark. Thank God that there is light for us. Isaiah 9 says, ‘The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned... For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace’ (vv2 and 6). It’s a marvellous truth that Jesus brings light to us. Whether we are in what seem to be hopeless circumstances, or we feel as if we are running down a road with fear in our hearts, he is our light and our hope. We need to allow his light to dawn within us, making and taking space to receive, not only for our own sakes but also the sakes of others – for as Jesus people, we’re called to be the light of the world.

I am the candle of the Lord, And truth and love more powerful than sword! O fan the flame, its single gleam diffuse, And let my spirit be the light that you can use. I am the candle of the Lord! Light me! How bright the light is: from soul to soul A myriad tiny flames expanding to a whole. How strange the truth is when joined as one, And what a miracle this shining could become; It could transform the darkness that we know, And clearly light the way mankind must go. Hands, face, but also space. May you find space this Advent, and ‘may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit’ (Romans 15:13).

ANTHONY COTTERILL COMMISSIONER TERRITORIAL COMMANDER This message is based on a video that can be viewed at facebook.com/ SalvationistOnline or youtube.com/ salvationarmyvideo

NEWS

REMEMBRANCE

Army finds new ways to remember the fallen UKI DESPITE coronavirus restrictions stopping many of the usual Remembrance Sunday services, Salvationists across the country found opportunities to pause and remember servicemen and women who gave their lives in war. Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill was at the Cenotaph in London to represent The Salvation Army alongside leaders from other churches and faiths. Some corps and Salvationists held socially distanced events in their communities. In Malvern, corps officer Lieutenant Sarah Griffiths and Territorial Envoy

Matthew Griffiths held a service on their street. Many corps remembered the fallen during their online services. Sheffield Citadel featured a recorded sounding of the Last Post and Reveille by principal cornet Adrian Wileman. Even though larger services were curtailed or reduced in size, some band members still sounded the Last Post and Reveille at cenotaphs across the country. Corps also found creative ways of remembering those whose lives were lost. Hadleigh Temple constructed an illuminated poppy waterfall featuring more than 1,000 poppies knitted by their Knit and Natter group. They also attached large poppies to lamp posts around the estate. Many Salvation Army charity shops marked the day with window displays. – AR

Daniel and Micah Cook, the sons of the Ballymoney corps officers, lay a wreath at the town cenotaph

CHATHAM Band Sergeant Greg Davis and local landscaping specialist Michael Fry unveiled a plaque commemorating the life of Flight Lieutenant Ian Muirhead DFC, who crash-landed near the town during the Battle of Britain. They hope passers-by will take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by many during the war. The plaque, which is mounted on an original War Department landmark stone, now stands next to the public footpath running from Grove Wood, Hempstead, to Star Lane. – GD

Majors Frank and Mavis Pascoe represent Hinckley at the war memorial on Armistice Day

Aylesbury corps treasurer Michael Power sounds the Last Post on Remembrance Sunday, as requested by his road’s WhatsApp group organiser Salvationist 5 December 2020

NEWS

ARMY NEWS

Salvation Army issues statement on disabilities IHQ A NEW international positional statement acknowledges that ‘many people around the world experience discrimination due to disabilities’ and sets out the Army’s approach to inclusion and diversity. The statement points out that, globally, about one billion people live with a disability and ‘face oppression in terms of injustice, economic deprivation, abuse, stigmatisation and discrimination’. Based on the biblical understanding that all people are made in the image of God and are of equal intrinsic value, the statement says the Army aims to be ‘a church that makes the embodied gospel accessible for all’. The statement outlines six practical responses to promote inclusion and diversity: the Army ‘seeks to better contribute’ to ‘international advocacy regarding the human rights of people with disabilities’; ‘embraces, promotes and models an understanding of persons with disabilities as people created in the image of God’; ‘fosters reciprocal ministry rather than the temporarily able-bodied ministering to people with disabilities’; ‘seeks the… active involvement of people with disability when developing and framing general Salvation Army policies’; acknowledges the need for ‘raising awareness’, ‘engaging in specific training’, ‘employing universal building design’ and ‘embracing recognised “best practice” communication’; and seeks to ‘respect the autonomy and self-determination of all people’. – AR O The positional statement can be downloaded from salvationarmy. org/isjc/ips BURTON-ON-TRENT Eddie Toon sounded the Last Post and Reveille outside his home on Remembrance Sunday. Neighbours and friends gathered in support. – KA 6

Salvationist 5 December 2020

ARMY NEWS

Safe house welcomes royal visitor UK HER Royal Highness Princess Eugenie of York and Julia de Boinville, co-founders of the Anti-Slavery Collective, visited a Salvation Army safe house ahead of Anti-Slavery Day. They met with survivors of modern slavery and staff members who shared their experiences. Residents also presented the princess and Julia with plant pots made by them using the Japanese art of kintsugi – repairing broken pottery by mending cracks with gold or silver lacquer. This is one of many therapeutic activities that have helped residents during recent challenging months. – AR

REMEMBRANCE Raymond Jackson, 83, from Dunstable sounds the Last Post and Reveille to his neighbours on Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day

CORPS

SWINDON CITADEL Prior to the lockdown in England an ensemble of six band members visited corps members who are unable to access online worship. This was the first such activity for a considerable time and those visited appreciated hearing their requests and other familiar melodies. The group prayed that their neighbours would also be blessed. – KS

REMEMBRANCE Eston corps officer Lieutenant Kathryn Stowers leads an Armistice Day service at the town cenotaph

LYMINGTON Divisional Envoy Doug Barlow sounded bugle calls on Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day at the outreach unit’s wayside pulpit. Neighbours and walkers listened and a couple of cars stopped. – RB

Retired Songster Leader Robert Foster sounds the Last Post and Reveille at Leighton Buzzard war memorial while Retired Corps Sergeant-Major John Quick lays a wreath from the corps

NEWS FEATURE

Soup, soap and sanitiser INDIA WESTERN EVANGELINE Booth Hospital (EBH) in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, is one of five large Salvation Army hospitals in India. The facility received its first Covid-19 case on 14 March and has adapted its procedures to meet the needs of more than 3,200 patients who have presented with coronavirus symptoms since. Admissions peaked in September, with 163 individuals testing positive for Covid-19. Arriving patients approach the hospital grounds through a sanitising spray tent, installed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) – part of India’s ministry of defence. Individuals wait in a reorganised admissions area outside the hospital, maintaining social distancing until they are seen by a medical professional. Police officers support the staff members in managing the flow of arrivals. The admissions team evaluates the urgency of each case, taking the patient’s temperature, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and other clinical details. Patients are admitted based on medical need or, where appropriate, transferred to nearby healthcare facilities, with EBH providing the necessary paperwork. Many of the patients are already considered vulnerable. In order to ensure biosecurity, patients are not able to receive food or other items from friends or family members. Therefore, The Salvation Army provides a welcome kit comprising mineral water, a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, sanitiser, a face mask and an energy drink. Hot tea and nutritious food – such as soup, boiled eggs and cookies – are offered to each inpatient three times a day. Patients also have access to purified water and an electric kettle. Doctors make a clinical assessment according to World Health Organisation

guidelines, prescribe necessary medicines and provide oxygen by bedsides where required. As well as addressing patients’ physical conditions, efforts are made to care for their mental health. Team members provide opportunities for conversation to mitigate the emotional effects of isolation and social distancing. The team of medical professionals works closely with the hospital’s housekeeping and hygiene teams to coordinate effectively and give wrap-around care throughout the day and night. Staff members are also cared for, with free vitamin supplements provided to boost their immune systems. The premises are treated with disinfectant twice a day and biological waste is safely removed from the site every day by council workers. The biosecurity measures implemented mean that no EBH staff member has so far contracted Covid-19. As well as the relationship forged with the DRDO, the hospital is fostering good relationships with the mayor, police, municipal government, water and electricity authorities and roads service. The hospital has received help installing a more robust underground electricity supply, street lighting, security cameras and an improved road within the compound. Crucially, the renovation of an old, closed children’s ward

has increased capacity for treating patients recovering from Covid-19. Already highly regarded in the area, locals have praised the hospital’s response to the pandemic. In a community that practises many different faiths, the Salvation Army team members have been described as ‘angels of God’. Extensive coverage and testimony from recovering patients have also featured in regional newspapers and TV news programmes. In addition to the hospital’s high-quality care and excellent recovery rate, EBH has been hailed as a ‘platform of social connection’. Many former patients are fundraising for the clinic among their own business and community contacts. In turn, this ensures that the diligent service and care can continue free of charge to all who need them, without discrimination. – AR

Salvationist 5 December 2020

INTERVIEW

Vi o

International Projects Office Team Leader Ben Gilbert continues a series exploring the UKI Territory’s international development work by discussing income generation with Programme Adviser Violet Ruria

let Ruria

Golden opportunity

Tanzania

MAGINE a life with no access to a formal bank account, card payments or mobile banking. For many people living in extreme poverty, this is the norm, making them more vulnerable to loan sharks and the violence associated with them. Violet Ruria explains how the Army’s international development programmes in other territories help marginalised communities and families who have little or no access to formal financial services, by providing a way to earn a living and support themselves with a sense of dignity, while saving money for the future.

loans groups. These groups are made up of 15 to 25 self-selected members who agree to come together to learn financial literacy and gain skills in saving and tools to run small businesses. This helps them realise their dream of earning an income for their households.

WHAT ROLE DOES INCOME GENERATION PLAY IN INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT? Income generation is key for international development. Statistics show that we live in a world where, sadly, 2.5 billion people lack access to formal financial services. Most of them are women and young people in developing countries. Income generation is critical because it enables communities and empowers individuals to gain livelihood skills, which are extremely useful in ensuring that their families can earn an income. If this opportunity was not there, they would not gain these skills. Through the Army’s income generation projects we give families the opportunity to support themselves as well as help communities form small savings and

HOW DO THE GROUPS WORK? The groups meet frequently and members elect their leaders and agree to pool their resources. Once their resources and capital base start growing they are able to provide small loans to each other. It’s a self-managed bank, as we would say. They formulate a constitution outlining what they need to do as members: their obligations and how much to charge in terms of interest rates, which often have low margins. They also agree on how each member will benefit. The groups are empowered to gain leadership skills and acquire the self-esteem and self-belief that are critical in overcoming poverty. Often the groups provide a safety net that members can fall back on when they face life shocks. For instance, if they

Salvationist 5 December 2020

WHERE IS THE ARMY’S INCOME GENERATION WORK TAKING PLACE? We are working with farmer groups in Malawi and with families in the informal settlements of Nairobi in Kenya. We are also starting to work with some groups in Angola, Tanzania and Bangladesh.

have a huge medical bill they can turn to the group and get some money to address that need, or when a member is bereaved and they need some support, the group is there to provide it. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR THE ARMY TO INVEST IN INCOME GENERATION PROGRAMMES? It is vital because it empowers people and helps them work their way out of poverty. Irrespective of where they live, every human being has dreams. Income generation programmes give them the skills, abilities, capacity and encouragement they need to pursue them. It also gives dignity to a family. They know that they don’t have to depend on external support to feed their families. The programme journeys with families, encouraging them to realise and believe that they are able to solve their problems, earn a decent income and protect their community. This increases the resilience of individuals to withstand whatever shocks life throws at them. Next week… Anne Gregora talks about antitrafficking O Episodes of the Develop podcast are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Soundcloud and Google Podcasts O Find more information and resources at salvationarmy.org.uk/ international-development

ADVENT REFLECTION

Four people have chosen a carol to reflect on during Advent. Major Liesl Baldwin continues the series with ‘A Starry Night’

WONDER when it is that you begin to feel Christmassy. Is it when your tree goes up? When the music begins to play in the shops? When you sing your first carol? I remember hearing people say, as they left a particular corps carol service, ‘Now my Christmas starts!’ Although they only ventured into our hall on that once-a-year occasion, it signified a marker on their journey towards Christmas. Somehow, during the weeks of December, our church became a compass for their preparations. People living largely on the fringes of organised worship now happily attend a Christingle or Nativity carol service in this way. Alleluia! My fondest memory of Christmas meetings – and the thing that often marks the start of my Christmas – is the singing of ‘A Starry Night’ (SASB 112). Far beyond its popularity in the 1960s this carol continues to impact the gatherings that sing it. Picture our carol service. Parents attending to watch their children play their part, waiting in anticipation to catch their performance on iPhones. Youth leaders rushing around, ensuring that Mary is still wearing her headgear and that the shepherds’ tea towels have stayed in place. A certain amount of chaos exists alongside hopeful anticipation. The excitement filling the air, far exceeding any fear you may have regarding Christingle candles. You are thankful that the miracle has happened again – people have come. As you ponder this gathering you can’t help but notice the beautiful blend of people: those who look at ease and those who appear less familiar; those who sit alone and those who take up rows; those who know the carols and those who mumble or silently observe. They are all together just for today. And then the words explode: ‘And all the angels sang for him,/ The bells of Heaven rang for him’. The roof lifts at the sound of the voices. The carol has done it again!

AND THEIR HEARTS BELIEVED AGAIN

It was on a starry night When the hills were bright Earth lay sleeping, sleeping calm and still. Then in a cattle shed, in a manger bed A boy was born, King of all the world. And all the angels sang for him, The bells of Heaven rang for him, For a boy was born, King of all the world. Soon the shepherds came that way Where the baby lay And were kneeling, kneeling by his side. And their hearts believed again for the peace of men, For a boy was born, King of all the world. From this disparate, beautiful blend comes a song of joy that you can’t help but join in with. Out come the maracas and the shakers, along with clapping, dancing and smiling. You sing at the top of your voice. Regardless of why you came, right now in this moment, the overwhelming noise carries you into a world of joy. As I relive this explosion in my memory, I realise afresh the power of this mystery we call Christmas. Earth lay sleeping, perhaps like those who came to the carol service expecting to find an unremarkable, uneventful event. Like the

shepherds, they too are carried away by the explosion of joy – he was born and he is King of all the world. The remarkable is happening again, but it’s not the shepherds who come: it’s the gathered congregation. As their singing bursts out, hope is born. They sing of kneeling by a baby’s side; we can worship again. They sing of transformation; we can believe again. I wonder how far the words capture their hearts. To worship again? To believe in peace again? The carol is soon over, but in those seconds something deep, something of God is taking place. It’s holy ground. Deep theology carried in a catchy tune. The Earth may lie sleeping again this Christmas, but the joy can still come, the hope can still be born. Whether at home, online or in your street, this song can explode through the slumber. So sing it once more, and let God, ‘the inspiration and fountain of hope, fill you to overflowing with uncontainable joy and perfect peace as you trust in him’ (Romans 15:13 The Passion Translation). As you sing for him, may you radiate hope this Christmas.

MAJOR BALDWIN IS CORPS OFFICER, BELFAST TEMPLE Salvationist 5 December 2020

REFLECTION CTI O REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI EC TION ON

The best of times the worst Head of HR Systems Rosalyn Rudran (THQ) reflects on her experiences during lockdown

Y experience of the first waves of the coronavirus pandemic and life in lockdown coincided with my maternity leave. In early January, two weeks after having my second child, I recall discussing a new virus and its impact with my father and some medic friends. At the time it sounded like the faint rumblings of unrest, but we felt largely removed from the whole thing – it was happening in faraway lands – and blissfully sheltered from it all. My husband and I had moved two weeks before the birth and I was looking forward to six months of maternity leave enjoying our new house – visiting coffee shops or friends and, in the early summer months, going to local parent-and-baby events and attending BuggyFit exercise classes. However, by March we were hurtling towards the stark reality of lockdown and the unprecedented, unprepared-for task of homeschooling, as well as facing the prospect of being cooped up and isolated from family and friends. My mother – who lives two hours away from us – had a health condition that, due to her weakened state, put her in the vulnerable category. Unsure about how soon we would be able to see her again, we made a cautious trip to visit her. Suddenly there were huge queues and empty shelves in supermarkets, and elusive slots for home deliveries. The likelihood of not being able to worship in church was disheartening too, as that was such an integral part of our lives. By April we were ensconced in the lockdown, my husband was working from home and our evenings were spent queueing outside shops. I felt despondent about not being able to get 10

Salvationist 5 December 2020

basic provisions such as milk, bread and flour because of supply chain issues. Some products, such as yeast for making bread, had seemingly vanished off the face of Britain. We looked to see how we could help our neighbours, church friends and older folk who couldn’t easily get to shops or were shielding. In some ways, it felt like the end of the world we knew – not quite an apocalypse, but something like it. While exploring ways our church could help the community, I came across

activities I never had time to discover before, such as the Army’s baby bank in Camberwell and the many food banks and shelters in the area. Slowly, there were glimmers of hope and evidence of the nation’s resilience – the giving, the willingness to help neighbourhoods and the spirit to carry on and be grateful. Our young adults group at church formed an online Sunday worship session so we could sing and pray together and children could see one another. In the evenings, some family

of times members joined us on video calls to pray for those who were sick, people who’d lost loved ones, those alone or facing hardship, doctors, nurses, shop workers and those keeping supply chains and logistics running, as well as for wisdom for the nation’s leaders. The ramifications of lockdown started to be realised and the government announced job retention measures to support the economy and protect workers. Friends were put on furlough or started working remotely from home, while others faced job losses and uncertainty. The opening to Charles Dickens’ A Tale Of Two Cities captures it best: ‘It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.’ In the face of such tremendous turmoil, I considered that maybe this was the time out we needed – to stop, breathe, take stock, refocus, be thankful, care for our neighbours and value those who serve society. No longer travelling or commuting, we had more time together as a family. We got to see our neighbours and have doorstep conversations with them, as well as with those on the streets around us while out walking or on bike rides. I returned to work in June and it was like stepping into another dimension, one full of the language of the pandemic – furlough, deployment, HMRC returns and pay impacts and adjustments. My team was entrenched in supporting staff members, working nights and weekends to facilitate the furlough scheme. I had to dive in quickly to immerse myself in the technicalities and ascertain the issues and challenges we faced. I saw the deep commitment of the Human Resources Department and the amazing individuals who were stoically persisting, undeterred and determined to support people.

God was the constant throughout – unchanging, steadfast and sure

My husband had taken shared parental leave and I passed on the baton of looking after our children to him, in order to work full-time from home. Exchanging information and communicating were now mainly via Lifesize video calls, phone calls or emails. I missed the chats at the coffee machine, while waiting for a lift or when bumping into someone in the corridor, as well as hugging colleagues whom I hadn’t seen for months. I found that I needed to reach out to people to engage and re-establish communication channels. I had to ‘virtually’ meet new members of staff who had started when I was on maternity leave. I also needed to get up to speed swiftly with a number of projects and groups. There were positives – notably, the ‘commute’ to work was less than a minute and there was no queue for the coffee machine. There was another gearshift when the world’s attention turned to racial injustice and systemic inequality, triggered by the death of George Floyd. Major Jonny Smith (THQ) attended one of the HR town hall meetings and shared his passion and vision for change. One of the working groups I was involved in took on the role of facilitating an HR safe space to dialogue about institutional attitudes that had long beset societies the world over and were mirrored in microcosm in our own communities and workplaces. This has started a conversation that we hope will bring about changes in behaviours and attitudes and make us more aware and intentionally inclusive. Recently I had a technical issue with my laptop and I needed to visit Carshalton Corps to access a network connection. I met the inspiring corps

officer and saw the dedication of those running a corps and the challenges they face. I also saw the great impact of such corps and their value to communities in bringing people together and being a place of refuge. I am grateful for all that this year has made me realise. It has confronted the things I assumed were constants and revealed God’s hand steadily working in the background in various circumstances and through many people. On reflection, I can see that God was the constant throughout – unmoving, unchanging, steadfast and sure.

I cherish the opportunity to work with my amazing team and department, and I am inspired by everyone in The Salvation Army who is dedicated to serving across the territory and on the front line. I look forward to continuing to contribute to the Movement’s wider aims and supporting our people in the times ahead. O For more information about well-being forums, which are led by well-being champions and provide a safe space for sharing and reflection, email wellbeingforall@salvationarmy.org.uk

Salvationist 5 December 2020

FEATURE I Southwark Young People Service

Loving our neighbour… Staff members from Southwark Young People Service (SYPS) share their thoughts about being social in a time of social distancing

Salvationist 5 December 2020

ROSANNA AMOUR PROGRAMME CO-ORDINATOR A LARGE part of SYPS is our three dispersed properties. These are shared houses that are based in the community. They are for young people either moving out of the main residential centre, Springfield Lodge, to give living on their own a go, or those who require accommodation but have more independent living skills than those who need Springfield Lodge. We have been kept very busy with the management of these properties – sorting out repairs, collecting rent, setting up contracts and negotiating what is an emergency. This has included teaching the young people there that they need to report leaks, lack of hot water and other urgent matters. Recently, we had lots of rubbish out in the front gardens, which did

not please the neighbours. This was because our residents were not recycling properly and people were fly-tipping outside the properties. As a favour to our young people and to build the relationship with their neighbours, staff members ‘aproned up’ and cleared the rubbish from the gardens. We also put educational material around to teach our residents about recycling and have begun holding house meetings again. Due to the recent restrictions, we have decided to hold these meetings over the phone. We are constantly having to find ways to involve and support our young people while still working within the restrictions. With safe room checks and meetings, we hopefully won’t have to go down to the properties again with our litter picker to pick up mouldy Pot Noodles!

MAJOR KAREN CARDY CHAPLAIN ACCORDING to the biblical account of Creation, God first created a man, then a woman because he said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone’ (Genesis 2:18). There have been many jokes as to why this may be – my favourite being that the man ‘wouldn’t know what to wear’ without female advice! The point of the verse is, however, that human beings are social beings. We need each other and were created to live in community. It is not natural to be alone, which is why, within a prison system, solitary confinement is used as an extra level of punishment. Human contact is one of our basic requirements. When I first heard the term ‘social distancing’, it sounded cold, uncaring and unsociable. Yet it has now become a way of life for us in fighting the spread of coronavirus. We have

had to find ways to be social without having close physical contact, and indeed people have been creative in doing so. We have not lost the urge to socialise with friends and family but we have had to try harder. During the first lockdown the Thursday night clapping for NHS staff and frontline carers was the only time my family saw our neighbours, so we made a point of chatting to the people across the street. Sunday church and the Friday youth group became Zoom meetings and the family holiday we had planned was cancelled. This Christmas will be the first one ever for my family with no visiting grandparents. Yet we still have contact via technology. One of my older family members has even started using Facebook to keep in touch with people. She never would have considered it before. We do

...from a distance IVAN CONGREVE SERVICE MANAGER FOR many people, being social is about going out and meeting others. For many more it’s about meeting the group they call ‘friends’ and having a good time, whether it’s listening to music, talking or some other activity. Being social means enjoying other people’s company – being accepted as having a value and knowing that your input is appreciated. Some see society as being more and more closed to them, especially through this period of Covid-19. This can be due to difficult past experiences, which mean they end up more introverted than extroverted and find it difficult to build meaningful relationships. For them, being social and socialising is hard work. Opportunities to develop self-worth through developing an understanding of themselves alongside like-minded people do not come often in a socially distanced world. This can affect people’s confidence – and the one thing they need to aid their development is to be confident enough to socialise. This can sound bleak for our young people and, whether they are

introverts or extroverts, they all have their darker moments. The staff team at SYPS is acutely aware of how difficult it can be for the young people during the restrictions caused by the pandemic. I am proud of the team members as they work with the young people to build and develop the skills they need to weather this time and for their future development. Working in a close professional relationship at a social distance is not easy and takes a lot of hard work on both sides. As a team we use many techniques – but the most important thing is not those techniques but why we do what we do and the reason behind using them. Empathy and love are the underlying reasons we work in this environment. Social distancing is difficult for us all. Seeing a smile behind a mask can be difficult. If, though, you give the person good eye contact, you can see that smile in their eyes. Following social distancing rules does not mean we should be socially distant – or should I say distant to society. I believe we need to work harder to be social to the ‘whosoever’ at a distance.

what we have to do in order to maintain a social life, because it is so important to us. We also maintain a sense of concern for each other and a willingness to pull together when others need help. We see friends and neighbours doing shopping for each other, putting the bins out or going the extra mile to make sure that people we know are not left feeling lonely and isolated. All this tells me that despite the need for social distancing we are still being social, we are still keeping our community spirit alive. Part of our spirituality involves how we relate to others and where we see our place in the world. The methods of social engagement may have temporarily changed, but our social impulse has not. At our core we are still social beings and it is great to see this on display.

Support worker Tim Gibbs

Salvationist 5 November 2020

MORE REAR-M MIR RRO OR

TWO WORDS TO TREASURE General John Larsson (Retired) shares fascinating glimpses of the early Army

ARLY in the morning on 18 April 1906 one of the greatest earthquakes ever recorded struck the heart of San Francisco. More than 28,000 houses were wrecked, streetcar tracks hung suspended in the air and water mains were destroyed. Soon a wall of fire blasted its way across the city, whose entire water supply had been cut off. It was a disaster of epic proportions. As first responders swung into action, so did Salvationists from San Francisco and the neighbouring city of Oakland. There was no master plan. Everything was spontaneous. But as the dead were unearthed the Salvationists were there to assist the bereaved. And as dazed victims stumbled into the streets, the Salvationists set up a relief camp in Beulah Park where within days they had fed 30,000 people, provided beds for 9,000 and clothed 6,000 nearly naked victims. The Army’s response to the San Francisco earthquake was its first venture into large-scale emergency service. And it was on such a massive scale that the Army became associated with disaster relief – a reputation it retains to this day. The late Lord Tonypandy, formerly Speaker George Thomas, once shared with me an unforgettable confirmation of this fact. He was going to grace an Army event in Cardiff and, as we sat in the anteroom conversing, he made a tantalising remark. ‘You know,’ he said, ‘I once heard the Queen say two words that you Salvationists ought to treasure.’ Two words to treasure spoken by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II? I was all ears! 14

Salvationist 5 December 2020

He told me that the two words were spoken in Aberfan some days after 21 October 1966, when that Welsh community was devastated by a mining disaster. A total of 144 people, of whom 116 were children, died when an 800-foot-high slag heap collapsed and engulfed the Pantglas Junior School. ‘The Salvation Army rendered magnificent service among the bereaved families,’ recounted Lord Tonypandy. ‘The marvel was that they were there so quickly and in such great numbers.’ Now it was my turn to add to the story. I explained that when news of the disaster broke, all the Salvation Army corps officers stationed in south Wales – about 40 in number – were together in a coach, returning from officers councils at Swanwick. They heard the news on the bus radio. After a brief consultation, the divisional commander directed the bus driver to head straight for Aberfan. As a result, within a few hours of the disaster, 40 Salvation Army officers dressed in their best uniforms were at the scene ready to help. They immediately got to work to meet the immensity of human need confronting them. The ministry of some of these officers in preparing the bodies for identification, and then accompanying the parents in the heartbreaking task of identifying their children, is still spoken of with awe. ‘A few days after the disaster,’ continued Lord Tonypandy, ‘Her Majesty the Queen visited Aberfan to express her condolences to the grieving community and to thank all who had helped. I was secretary of state for Wales at the time and was therefore present at the briefing she was given on arrival.’

He went on: ‘The details of the grim disaster were described to her, and the briefer then paid tribute to the emergency services and all who had aided in practical ways. The official mentioned the military, the police, the firemen, the ambulance service and others. As each group was referred to the Queen nodded in approval and gratitude. But when The Salvation Army was mentioned the response was more than a nod. It was at that point that she quietly spoke the two words that I think you Salvationists ought to treasure. At the mention of The Salvation Army she simply said: “Of course.”’ ‘If I were you,’ he concluded, ‘I would treasure those words, for in just two words the Queen summed up the reputation that the Army has built up for always being there when needed. Just two words – but they encapsulate the expectation that people have of The Salvation Army. Treasure them because they add up to one of the most eloquent tributes ever paid to the Army!’ I thanked Lord Tonypandy and assured him that we would. There was no time to tell him how it all began with the earthquake in San Francisco, and how Salvationists since then have again and again been right there when disaster strikes. But thank God, that is how it is.

Serving hot meals to refugees in San Francisco

FLECTI ECTION TION REFLECTION REFL RE FLEC

Déjà vu all over again Trevor Caffull looks back at the impact of the second lockdown in England

OGI Berra was a New York Yankees baseball legend who arguably became more famous for his regular and hilarious ‘Yogi-isms’ than his baseball achievements, although those were well known too. He was described by journalist Scott Stump as ‘the king of creatively mangling the English language into quotable quips that strangely made sense, made people laugh, or both’. One of Berra’s most famous sayings was, ‘It’s déjà vu all over again.’ That phrase came to mind a few weeks ago as managers, staff members and volunteers at SATCoL shops closed up for another four weeks of lockdown in England. I’ve heard numerous accounts of real emotion during that moment. Lisa Haywood, manager of our shop in Goole, summed up the feelings of many when she said: ‘As I locked my shop tonight, I walked away feeling very sad at the thought of not returning for another month and not seeing my volunteers. For some, volunteering is their lifeline and we become like an extended family to them. The thought that we cannot be there for them makes me really sad, but for now I will make sure I can be there on the end of the phone.’ Many people in SATCoL and corps charity shops will have shared this feeling. It is testimony to the fact that for our managers there is so much more to the role than simply running a successful charity shop. The care for staff and volunteers, the recognition of the important part the shop and people play in their lives, the loving care of customers for whom regular, sometimes daily, contact is so important. When we close our shops for lockdown, it’s not just the tills that stop, it’s the whole mission that goes on pause. I’d never been more aware of this, and my heart went out to all our staff and customers who felt that sense of temporary loss. We’ve embraced the William Booth quote of ‘others’ in recent years, and it’s never been more poignant than now.

In one way or another, SATCoL life has gone on in this unprecedented and most challenging of years. During the lockdown many have continued to work and life has been exceptionally busy. Some might even have been envious of those with a few weeks off. Many will have been off, and a good number of them may have been envious of those still working. Some were and still are on flexible furlough, working part-time, and all will be concerned about the impact on our business, on jobs and on our future. We can’t predict the future, but let me tell you a few things about the recent past that may surprise you. In September our Clothing Collection Division had an all-time record month in terms of the volumes of donations collected, and October was only a short way behind. We are encouraged by this. On Monday 2 November shop sales were the highest ever recorded on any Monday in SATCoL’s history. The day after, shop sales were the highest ever recorded on any Tuesday in SATCoL’s history. And the day after that, the Wednesday record was also broken. Even Scottish shops, which were not preparing for another lockdown, were busy during this extraordinary response to the lockdown announcement. And when sales are that good, it just means

more hard work! Yet again I am staggered by the resilience of the SATCoL business and its amazing people. We continued to be aware of others as parts of our business were still serving the public and other parts were rested. Staff members were encouraged to keep in touch with each other, particularly vulnerable volunteers. It might have been déjà vu all over again, but we got through it together. That feeling of déjà vu was not just experienced by SATCoL staff members, of course. Many others will have felt it, with work and family life disrupted once again. And more may yet feel it as people across the UK face different tiers of restrictions in the coming days, even with special arrangements in place over Christmas so that families and friends can meet. The testimony of many during the first lockdown was that God was with them, supporting them in their isolation and uncertainty. He is faithful, so we can be sure that whatever the future holds, he will be there for us all over again.

TREVOR IS SATCOL MANAGING DIRECTOR AND A SOLDIER AT KETTERING CITADEL Salvationist 5 December 2020

BIBLE STUDY

World turned upside down Captain Mark Cotterill considers Joseph’s courage to trust God’s plan

MATTHEW 1:18–24

VERYTHING had been going so well. The wedding plans were in full swing, the marital home was under construction and there was excitement and anticipation of a future together with his bride to be: a young girl called Mary. Then the unthinkable happens! Mary tells her betrothed she is pregnant and he is obviously not the father. Completely humiliated, his life thrown up in turmoil and his heart left shattered, this is how we meet Joseph of Nazareth. What will he do? Where will he go from here? In his account of the Nativity, Luke clearly places Mary as the heroine of the story. Matthew, on the other hand, concentrates almost entirely on Joseph – an exceptional human being chosen to play a central role in the greatest

Through the week with Salvationist – a devotional thought for each day by Lieut-Colonel Ray Oakley

Salvationist 5 December 2020

drama in history and entrusted to raise and become Jesus’ earthly father. Joseph is traditionally described as a carpenter, although the Greek word used to describe him, tekton, indicates he was more likely a general builder. Most likely he was the kind of person who could turn his hand to just about anything in the construction business. It is not a stretch of the imagination to picture him putting his heart and soul into preparing the house for Mary. This was anything but a casual relationship. The engagement process could take several months and involved various betrothal ceremonies before the couple were formally recognised as man and wife – but even at this point they would have referred to one another as such. The news of the baby was devastating. How would Joseph handle such betrayal? Matthew tells us that Joseph was

‘faithful to the Law’ (v19). Having a deep and meaningful understanding of the Law, even in his pain and disarray, he would have known instantly what was expected of him: ‘She shall be brought to the door of her father’s house and there the men of her town shall stone her to death. She has done an outrageous thing in Israel by being promiscuous while still in her father’s house. You must purge the evil from among you’ (Deuteronomy 22:21). Mary was now in real danger. Confronted with this stark reality Joseph eventually came to a decision: he was not going to marry her, nor was he willing to expose her. Out of a heart of compassion and regardless of his own reputation, he decided to quietly divorce her. Make no mistake about it, even if Joseph went through with this plan he knew that Mary might well be shunned by her family and have little chance of remarriage; her prospects as a single mother looked grim.

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: his mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 1:18)

Angels from the realms of Glory,/ Wing your flight o’er all the Earth:/ Ye, who sang creation’s story,/ Now proclaim Messiah’s birth. (SASB 100)

Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law… he had in mind to divorce her quietly… But… an angel… appeared to him in a dream and said… ‘Do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’ (Matthew 1:19–21)

Prayer Lord God, we find it amazing that you, the creator of the whole universe, should wish to dwell among humankind. Thank you for sending your son, Jesus, to save us from our sins. Thank you for also sending your Holy Spirit to live within us.

Just then, quietly in the dark of the night, Joseph had an encounter that changed everything. God reached out and invited him into a much bigger story. One that called him to do something that pitched him well past the Law or any kind of mercy he could imagine. An angel said: ‘Do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife’ (v20). Do not be afraid to do something outrageous? This was a crossroads moment for Joseph: his life, ethics and religion were being thrown up in the air and he was being asked to forsake understanding for a leap of faith. QUESTIONS O What was interesting or grabbed your attention in this story? O What do you think it might have cost Joseph to go ahead and marry Mary? O What fear on Joseph’s part do you think the angel addressed?

Can you imagine that first conversation with Mary the day after? Imagine the sense of majesty and mystery as Joseph with great excitement told Mary, ‘I know where this baby is from and I know who he is. He is Jesus, the Saviour of the world, Immanuel, God with us!’ The journey ahead for this couple remained daunting but they did it together, aware that they were in incredible, safe hands. Joseph only appears in the Gospels on a few other occasions. His absence at the cross makes it fairly certain that he had died; Jesus most likely would not have asked John to take care of Mary if Joseph were still alive. Remarkably, Joseph is actually the first person who hears the name of Jesus and responds to it. His story, in some way, becomes a blueprint for the gospel, calling people out from where they are, calling people to a change of heart.

QUESTIONS O Has God spoken to you in a dream or vision? How does he speak to you? O How does Joseph’s story encourage you to co-operate with God even when he wants you to do something very difficult? God draws us forward even if we do not fully understand. This Advent, may you encounter and hear his voice, which banishes all fear and calls us to take a leap of action.

CAPTAIN COTTERILL IS CORPS OFFICER, HELSINGBORG, SWEDEN AND LATVIA TERRITORY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

God sent his Son, they called him Jesus;/ He came to love, heal and forgive;/ He lived and died to buy my pardon,/ An empty grave is there to prove my Saviour lives. (SASB 219)

When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus. (Matthew 1:24 and 25)

Christ, by highest Heaven adored,/ Christ, the everlasting Lord,/ Late in time behold him come,/ Offspring of a virgin’s womb./ Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;/ Hail the incarnate Deity!/ Pleased as man with man to dwell,/ Jesus, our Immanuel. (SASB 108)

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in Heaven and on Earth and under the Earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:9–11)

Salvationist 5 December 2020

LETTERS

COMPOSER WANTED

VICTORY OVER ANXIETY

IT could be a generational thing but many of us were pleased to note that the theme for the recent online congress, Light, Life And Love, came directly from one of Albert Orsborn’s classic poems. The pleasure was heightened even more by the inclusion of the words in a new composition during the Saturday session. When one mentions the name ‘Albert Orsborn’ to a new generation they often respond with, ‘Who is Albert Orsborn?’ Then, when they become aware of who he was and what he wrote, they complain that the music linked to the poetry is too sombre – but then he did take on some rather sombre subjects, more theological reflection than Christian pop! Is there a composer out there who will compose modern music to more of Orsborn’s poetry? The genre of music hardly matters, so long as we keep singing at least some of his songs and, more importantly, retain his poetry for future generations.

AT the beginning of November, the prime minister announced that England would enter a second national lockdown to tackle the spread of Covid-19 – a daunting prospect for many who may have been furloughed again. I spent four months this year on furlough before going back to work. I have really enjoyed serving our community in Barrow-inFurness, alongside our two new corps officers. The news that the corps charity shop would be closing during the lockdown was sad, but not unexpected. As I wait to hear the conditions of my second furlough, I have a sense of peace and calm, as I experienced the grace of my Heavenly Father through the first furlough, and I know that he will continue to take care of my finances once again. He is able to do immeasurably more than I ask or imagine, according to his power at work within me. I would like to encourage anyone else who may be facing such challenges, along with raised anxiety levels, to focus on God, who promises to never leave us or forsake us. It is good to know the most frequent promise in the Bible is: ‘I will be with you.’ We recently had a funeral for one of

Ray Kirby Lieut-Colonel Selby

our dearly loved soldiers at Barrow. Lieutenant Kathryn Whitmore reminded us of a favourite verse of Scripture: Psalm 121. In verse 5 it says: ‘The Lord watches over you – the Lord is your shade at your right hand.’ Lieutenant Kathryn reminded us that God is as close to us as our shadows. Have you ever tried to escape your shadow? Quite impossible! Another verse that I recall when anxiety tries to overwhelm me is Psalm 94:17-19: ‘Unless the Lord had given me help, I would soon have dwelt in the silence of death. When I said, “My foot is slipping”, your unfailing love, Lord, supported me. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.’ I particularly love the part of the Message translation of this, which says: ‘When I was upset and beside myself, you calmed me down and cheered me up.’ God is closer than you think! May you feel his closeness in these uncertain times, and experience his comfort and peace. Nicola Walmsley Barrow-in-Furness

THE JESUS PRAYER I WRITE in response to the article ‘The Jesus prayer’ (Salvationist 17 October). There are some concerns over this practice, which has spread through evangelical churches, including ours and also those in other territories. There are strong arguments on both sides of the debate and this is not a criticism of the author of this article. The underlying process is the ‘breath prayer’ model. This is a mind-emptying process. In fact, one of the modern proponents of this ancient practice, Richard Foster, has written in Celebration Of Discipline: ‘Christian meditation is an attempt to empty the mind in order to fill it.’ The question is: ‘With what?’ Herein lie concerns. The gift of discernment is sadly not

common. A letter such as this is not the place for me to give a balancing viewpoint. For many, including myself, I believe the ‘breath prayer’ model to be one that can leave our minds wide open to a variety of inputs, including a demonic one. It can turn our thinking inward when God’s revelation is from above. This is a matter about which we need to follow the Bereans’ example and search Scripture carefully, leading to a scriptural response to this matter. As this is a practice that extends to other territories, it may be best considered by IHQ. Roger Baker Welling

LETTERS Readers’ letters are a popular and well-read section of Salvationist. 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 300 words.

Salvationist 5 December 2020

LOCKDOWN DIARY I The Sequel

Week 3 Major Karen Sandford (Harlow) continues her day-by-day account of life in lockdown

DAY 15 Thursday 19 November

DAY 17 Saturday 21 November

This morning we had a pastoral Zoom with our divisional leaders. It was good to spend time with them, not least because they could see how much better Chris is looking. Another good thing was the feeling of connection – people setting time aside for us, to listen, share and laugh. And of course, the joy of being prayed with and for. In our role, we are usually the pray-ers. We know people pray for us, but it is great when people pray with us. We then popped out to buy some candles. Part of our Advent journey this year includes Carols by Candlelight at home. We’re hoping to discover how far it is to Bethlehem. At the moment it’s all in my head, but I’m hoping to get it on paper soon.

I spent about 15 minutes on the phone with a lady from our corps this morning. I phone her every week to share the Wonder-full Worship for the week with her, as she’s partially sighted and unable to read it herself. I love spending that time with her. It’s one of those things in ministry that looks like me helping her, but I get such a lot from it. Daisy enjoyed her walk in the woods afterwards. I video-called Nanny, so she could appreciate the autumn scene too. Daisy showed off, and a good time was had by all. Something of her excitement at familiar things was quite infectious. She may feature in our Advent reflections.

DAY 16 Friday 20 November It’s 3 pm on Friday afternoon and I could quite happily go to bed until further notice. The reason for this is unclear. I got some work done last night and this morning, which pleased me greatly. I spent a couple of hours with my mum. We ate lovely food and had mother-daughter chats. So why do I feel like this? I was chatting to our chefs at the hall this morning, and I think we’re missing the things we would use to distract us when we feel this way: the cinema, a coffee shop, a hug, a meet-up. I’m going to write three things I’m grateful for. It helps shift my perspective. 1. Flat white coffees at service stations. 2. A hug from my mum. 3. Christmas lights that spark joy for me.

DAY 18 Sunday 22 November Today is Stir-up Sunday, and anyone who has any remote connection to me will know how excited it makes me. It’s a day for pre-Advent preparation. We ask God to stir us – preferably gently – before we begin our journey through Advent. Chris and I enjoyed sharing a few thoughts as we worshipped this morning and broadcast on Facebook Live. I love sharing my faith in a way that feels real, and I love that it reaches people who would ordinarily not think about coming to church. As I went out for a swim a little later, I prayed and sang and asked God to protect me from becoming discouraged. I continue to look up and not sideways.

DAY 19 Monday 23 November Monday is our day off. Having proper time off is crucial at the moment. It would be easy to let the days flow into one another. So today we went for a long walk to one of our favourite places. What I love is that we can

walk a different path every time. There’s always something new to see, to hear, to appreciate. It’s also the place where I walk by the river and recite Psalm 23 to myself.

DAY 20 Tuesday 24 November It’s hard not to be overwhelmed as a leader at the moment. I had my usual panic when Boris made his announcement last night about tougher local restrictions until spring. I seem to have settled down a bit, though, while we wait to discover what the new guidelines actually mean for churches. Life at the moment seems to be a case of putting my head down and getting on with the things that are possible, all the while trying not to think too far ahead. Thankfully I believe in a God who makes all things beautiful in his time.

DAY 21 Wednesday 25 November These weeks are usually full to the brim with plans and preparations, ways to help struggling families, Christmas plays, carol services, carolling, shopping, family stuff and a whole host of things. This year is different. I am steadily busy and my brain is in overdrive about the fact that I’m not really sure what to do next. I seem to be on constant high alert, as if something is just around the corner that I haven’t considered. It’s as if I’m getting stressed about the fact I know I should be stressed but am not as stressed as I think I should be. Today, in conversation with a co-worker, I reminded myself that 2020 is a year like no other. I can prepare or plan as usual, but most of the time I will need to see what arises and react as it happens. O To read Karen’s daily posts in full, go to karensandford.blogspot.com

Salvationist 5 December 2020

INTERVIEW alive

CHRISTMAS 2020

Sharing the good news

‘I

Salvationist 5 December 2020

The Young Soldier

– Issue No 7235

Urban conservatio n project makes a

salvationarmy.org.uk/kids

grow of it

21 November 2020 20p/25c

Salvationist talks to Wimbledon herald Richard Smart WAS looking after heralds as part of my job in THQ’s Publishing Department,’ recalls Wimbledon herald Richard Smart. ‘So naturally, I wanted to see what it was like for myself. The War Cry editor said: “Give it a whirl.” I’ve never looked back.’ Since Richard began volunteering several years ago, he says that he’s enjoyed lots of things about the role, including ‘the unearned gratitude that you receive’. He elaborates: ‘The Salvation Army has got such a good reputation for the work it’s done over the years. And it’s touched so many people’s lives. When people buy a War Cry or Kids Alive! they’re often doing it to express their thanks for some service they, their relatives or their friends have received from the Army in the past. ‘There have been incredible stories over the years. One woman came up to thank me for the assistance she’d received from The Salvation Army’s TLC drop-in centre at Mitcham, which helps women that have been abused. Another person told me that when her husband was experiencing homelessness, the Army helped him get back on his feet. Sometimes you even get people running down the street after you so you can say a prayer for them.’ The papers are a great launchpad for conversations. Research carried out by the Publishing Department found that if people buy a War Cry, they will read it. ‘The War Cry is the gift that follows their donation and opens up doors to have a chat with them about Jesus, which you wouldn’t otherwise be able to do,’ explains Richard. ‘It’s a good way of sharing Christianity with others in a non-demanding situation.

Kids Alive! – formerly

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Richard and Jennifer Smart ‘The message they get inside the covers is, if you like, Christian-lite. The War Cry is something that’s easy to pick up and read, and it’s challenging to a sensible extent. It can make them actually start a new process of thinking, especially at Christmas.’ Kids Alive! is also a hit with members of the public, says Richard: ‘Children often stop when they see that we’ve got Kids Alive! so their parents stop as well. You end up giving out one copy for each of their children. People who wouldn’t normally interact with you stop for the comic.’ Richard says he’s keen to return to selling Kids Alive! and War Cry when the lockdown is lifted in England.* ‘Provided we’re given the all clear, we’ll go back out – I can’t wait. My wife, Jennifer, and I go out every Saturday and we have our regulars who know us. They chat to her even more than to me – she’s a better listener!’ He outlines the special precautions he’s taking to respect government guidelines and keep himself and the people he interacts with safe: ‘I’ve got a wheeler that I take out with me, so I’ll be able to put the newspapers on top of that. I’ve also got a visor mask, which will help me as well. So I’m using a bit of common sense and hopefully it’ll go well.’ This all benefits the corps coffers, he adds: ‘Christmas is the best time of the year for donations. I would say at least 40 or 50 per cent of our donations come in at Christmas. People come out

in their droves, and so it’s a great thing for collections with our special Christmas issues.’ Such donations can make all the difference. ‘We’re a small corps – there are only about 20 of us,’ he says. ‘So that extra £2,000 that we make through paper sales is actually very important. It takes the budget over the top. There’s a small incentive for the heralds – a voucher they can spend at SP&S – so everybody has a share in it.’ What advice would he give people who are looking to become heralds? ‘Just go and do it,’ he encourages. ‘Ask your corps officer to order a sensible number of papers and go out at a regular time when the same people are out shopping, and then they will stop regularly for you.’ Richard emphasises that this year the work of heralds is more important than ever: ‘What we’ve seen over lockdown is a huge engagement with the Church. There are a lot of people who are on the edge of Christianity that need a bit of encouragement. If heralds are coming back, what better time to do it than at Christmas?’ *At the time of writing, the lockdown in England was set to end on 2 December, but other restrictions were to be introduced. Please adhere to your national government’s restrictions. If these prevent you from selling papers on the high street, why not deliver copies to a Salvation Army food bank or your neighbours?

PREVIEW

Faith In The City Of London by Niki Gorick

To all our wonderful heralds,

Merry Christmas! We are so grateful for everything you have done in what has been an exceptionally challenging year. May God bless you with his peace, joy and provision this Christmas.

ONDON’S ‘Square Mile’ is known around the world as a centre for finance and for the moving and making of money. What it’s not known for is faith expressions, perhaps with the exception of the familiar sight of St Paul’s Cathedral. In her new book, Faith In The City Of London, fine art photographer Niki Gorick sets out to show that the well-known ceremonial events in St Paul’s are just the tip of a large faith-based iceberg. Over a number of months she gained unique access to capture the day-to-day workings of ancient and modern buildings, where she discovered a vibrant, diverse spiritual life representing many faiths. Alongside weddings, communion services, Muslim prayer rooms, livery company carol services, Afghan music, Knights Templar investitures, Bible studies and knife-wielding vicars, Niki captured special moments and events at The Salvation Army’s International Headquarters (IHQ). These included the welcome to General Brian Peddle and an exhibition launch attended by the General and the Greek Orthodox archbishop. It shows the everyday outliving of faith that takes place at IHQ, through department devotions held in the International Chapel and regular outreach events that involve the distribution of coffee outside the building, providing the opportunity to talk and pray with passers-by.

O Faith In The City Of London is available from unicornpublishing.org priced £25 and from other online retailers

Best wishes, The Publishing Department

Salvationist 5 December 2020

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

APPOINTED Effective 12 November O Captain Leanne Wallis, additional appointment, area safeguarding adviser, West Midlands O Captain Jo Moir, additional appointment, territorial communications officer O Major Andrew Gaudion, Eaton Bray O Captain Emma Heal, additional appointment, divisional ecumenical officer, West Scotland O Captain Les Heal, additional appointment, divisional ecumenical officer, West Scotland Effective 19 November O Captain Hilary Borthwick, additional appointment, Millom Effective 26 November O Lieutenant Amy-Jo Battersby, additional appointment, area safeguarding adviser, East Scotland Effective 4 March 2021 O Captain Simon Rowney, Andover O Captain Victoria Rowney, Andover

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Blue Sapphire (65th) O Evelyn and Kenneth Talbot, Ipswich Citadel (17 December) Golden O Bandsman George and Songster Julie Ellitson, Rushden (28 November) RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Lieut-Colonel Barbara Tucker (80 on 13 December) O Aux-Captain Cyril Eighteen (85 on 14 December) O Lieut-Colonel Valerie Hart (80 on 18 December) O Major Albert Brown (85 on 18 December) PROMOTED TO GLORY O Jackie Hewitt, Belfast Citadel O BM Raymond Richards, Gorseinon, from Singleton Hospital on 7 October O BS Melvin Soulsby, Consett, on 12 November O Christian Cook, Watford, on 18 November O Thomas Dawson, Chester-le-Street, on 21 November O HLS Iris Griffiths, Sunderland Millfield, from St Benedictâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hospice on 22 November 22

Salvationist 5 December 2020

Major Alan Richards from his home in Morecambe on 22 November Kenneth Simmonds, Eastbourne Citadel

BEREAVED O Major Connie McCallum, Eagle Lodge, and Andrew McCallum of their mother Margaret McCallum O Marie Dawson, Chester-le-Street, of her husband Thomas Dawson O Major Carole Richards of her husband Major Alan Richards O Merle Richards, Gorseinon, of her husband BM Raymond Richards O Rose Soulsby, Consett, of her husband BS Mel Soulsby, Martin Soulsby, Consett, and Lynne Weller, Royal Oak, Michigan, of their father

HAVE YOUR SAY FAITH GROUPS IN ENGLAND The government wants to hear from as many people as possible about how it should engage with faith groups in England. Individual Salvationists are invited to take part in the online survey â&#x20AC;&#x201C; especially, but not only, those who work or volunteer with government agencies and authorities, for example teachers, civil servants, prison chaplains, police and health and social care workers. The Salvation Army will also respond as a faith-based organisation, but Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Dean Pallant is encouraging as many people as possible to take part so that the Armyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s voice is heard. The deadline to submit responses is 11.45pm on 11 December. O Take part in the survey by visiting tinyurl.com/faithgroupsinengland

Please note that soldiersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and adherent membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk.

TRIBUTES HAZEL SHREEVE, LURGAN HAZEL was born in 1945 and was a lifelong member of The Salvation Army, soldiering mainly at Lurgan. She met her husband, Alan, during a visit from Ilford YP Band and they were subsequently married in 1965. Five years later they transferred, spending many years at Bangor before transferring again to Ilford. They returned to Lurgan so Hazel could nurse her father, who was seriously injured at the height of the Troubles while serving with the Royal Ulster Constabulary. During her time at Lurgan, Hazel served as a songster and primary sergeant, which she loved. She was always happy being with children. Hazel suffered in latter years with renal failure and was hospitalised many times, but she never lost the opportunity to witness for the Lord. She was called home on 24 March and is survived by Alan. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; AS GRACE LOSH, SUNDERLAND MONKWEARMOUTH GRACE was a thirdgeneration Salvationist who spent her 87 years in worship and service at Sunderland Monkwearmouth. She began as a junior soldier, singing company member and corps cadet. Her adult service included company guard and singing company pianist, as well as using her fine contralto voice in the songsters. Grace held various local officer positions, including home league fellowship secretary and songster sergeant. She also organised the parentand-toddler programme and home league prayer circle for more than 20 years. She was married to John for 65 years and was immensely proud of her musical family, Alan (ISB) and Joan (ISS) and grandchildren, news of whom she was always ready to share. Grace by name and gracious in nature, her service and love of family and the Army came from her deep love for God. A favourite song of hers concludes, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;First to know thee, then to serve thee, then to see thee as thou art.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Graceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prayer has been answered. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; TH

Prayer

ADVERTS PERSONAL RUSSELL BLANCHARD AND ADELE THATCHER wish to inform readers that their father, Robert Lewis Blanchard (Peterborough Temple, Canada and Bermuda Territory), was promoted to Glory from Lakefield Extendicare, Peterborough, on 15 November aged 79. Robert soldiered at Greenock Citadel, Mansfield, Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls and Thornton Heath before returning to his native Canada more than 20 years ago. RAY AND JOAN KIRBY express their appreciation for all cards, phone calls, emails, flowers etc received in connection with their diamond wedding celebration.

ADVENT ALPHABET FOCUS by Major Gethin Thomas

SATURDAY 5 DECEMBER – ENRICHED ‘For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich’ (2 Corinthians 8:9). Like the Bible personalities we are considering in this Advent Alphabet, have we discovered the true Christmas jackpot that is freely offered to us all? Pray that this Advent you may be spiritually enriched. SUNDAY 6 DECEMBER – FAVOURED Gabriel’s first words to Mary were: ‘Greetings, you who are highly favoured! The Lord is with you’ (Luke 1:28). Mary is favoured before she says ‘yes’ and before she carries the Messiah. Mary had not earned the favour of God, it was offered freely before it could be earned. God, thank you for choosing us for your work, for favouring us because of who we are. We are yours! Amen.

www.bandstandtales.co.uk

A SACKFUL OF PLAYS AND POEMS FOR CHRISTMAS by John Coutts

First published in 1986, with a number of enlarged and revised editions over the r^Zkl% Chag <hnmml l [hhd bl Z `b_m maZm d^^il hg `bobg`' In his preface, General John Gowans pkbm^l3 Ma^k^ bl anfZgbmr Zg] Z l^^fbg` simplicity about his verses… We find ourselves sharing insights with the writer Zg] ghm cnlm k^Z]bg` Z[hnm ma^f' Ma^ [hhd bl ikb\^] ikb\^] £7.50 !bg\e ihlmZ`^ Zg] iZ\dbg`" Zg] can be ordered by visiting johncoutts.info or sending a cheque mh Chag <hnmml% *,1 EZ]rlg^nd KhZ]% Lmbkebg` ?D2 .GK

PRAYER by Lyndall Bywater In the first instalment of the Big Questions for Small Groups series, Prayer draws on biblical wisdom and opens up questions for virtual smallgroup discussions and individual k^_e^\mbhg' :nmahk Erg]Zee ;rpZm^k lZrl3 Ma^k^ l something hardwired in humans that causes us to call out to God, particularly pa^g p^ k^ bg ]b__b\nemr' R^m ikZr^k bl lh much more than the occasional cry for aêi B ahi^ p^ ee laZk^ pbma rhn lhf^ h_ ma^ phg]^k h_ ikZr^k% Zg] B ahi^ bm ee [^\hf^ e^ll h_ Z \ahk^ Zg] fhk^ h_ Z chr' Prayer bl in[ebla^] [r Labê] ;hhdl' Hk]^k rhnk ikbgm \hir ghp _khf LI L _hk £4 on 01933 445 445 !himbhg *% himbhg *" hk go to sps-shop.com/books' : £3 Dbg]e^ ^]bmbhg pbee [^ kê^Zl^] lahkmer'

MONDAY 7 DECEMBER – GODSEND As a child, if I did something good for my mother which she was not expecting, she would say: ‘You are a godsend!’ She found what I did helpful and she was thankful. Through life I have become aware of the real Godsend. He is spoken of in 1 John 4:9: ‘He [God] sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.’ Lord, as people who have received life from the true Godsend, help us to do those unexpected things that others may find helpful. Help us to be a Godsend to others. Amen. TUESDAY 8 DECEMBER – HAPPY A smile is a good sign of happiness. As a young officer I was told by a more senior officer that a smile a day keeps the doctor away. His advice was to smile in the morning and get it over with! When God placed Jesus in the manger at Bethlehem, some say we saw the smile of God – a smile people had hoped and waited centuries for. Next Sunday in the Advent calendar is called Gaudete ( Joyful) Sunday. As you pray, smile and know the loving happiness our Saviour brings. WEDNESDAY 9 DECEMBER – INCLUDED Many know what it feels like to be left out, unwanted, unwelcome, unloved. But in the birth of Jesus we hear God saying to Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the wise men and also to every single one of us: ‘You are included.’ We don’t have to win, earn or deserve our place – it’s already there! This Advent, God invites us all to see that we are included. Thank you, Lord, because we are all included in your all-inclusive love. Amen. THURSDAY 10 DECEMBER – JOYFUL Following what must have been a dangerous, difficult and deadly journey, and a disappointing meeting with Herod, the star that the Magi followed disappeared. Possibly any joy they felt when they started out had disappeared a long time before that. When the star reappeared, so did their joy (see Matthew 2:9–11). The star continued to lead them to Jesus, and when they saw him with his family they bowed down, worshipped him and gave gifts. The joy these men experienced gave them strength to continue their journey and overflowed into worshipping Jesus, in a genuine and costly way. The same can be said of the joy known by all involved in this story. Can it be said of us this Advent time? FRIDAY 11 DECEMBER – KIND ‘But when the kindness and love of God our Saviour appeared, he saved us…’ (Titus 3:4 and 5). This year a celebrity made her dying wish to those who knew her: ‘Be kind.’ We have seen such kindness in the face of Covid-19, financial hardship, floods and other fears this year has brought. Titus reminds us of God’s kindness when he entered our world. Lord, help us to make a difference to someone this Advent by imitating you through being kind. Amen.

O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources

Salvationist215 November December 2020 2020 Salvationist

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and raise funds for your corps this Christmas

It’s not too early to be thinking about Christmas!!! The Community and Events Weam have created a suite of ideas to help corps fundraise this Christmas under the theme of ‘Be a STAR’, which came out of one of RXU corps focus groups. :H have designed posters and banners that you can personalise and use for your Facebook and RWKHU social media pages to help you promote what you are doing this year and raise EXTRA funds. Here are some examples of the concepts: Please get in touch with us at FKDOOHQJH#VDOYDWLRQDUP\ RUJ XN for more information, to let us know how we can support you or to share your ideas for corps fundraising at Christmas.

Here’s ho-ho-hoping for a great festive fundraising season, albeit a slightly different one this year!

Christmas Appeal 2020

The Salvation Army is a Christian Fhurch DQG registered Fharity No.214779 and in Scotland SC009359; Social Trust Registered Charity No. 215174 and in Scotland SC037691; The Salvation Army Trustee Company, registered number 00259322 (England and Wales).