Salvationist 5 March 2022

For everyone linked to The Salvation Army

70p / 5 March 2022

SALVATIONIST SUPPORTING GENDER JUSTICE HELPING-HAND APPEAL 2022

EXPLORING FLORENCE BOOTH’S DIARY PAGES 10 AND 11

QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

SPEAKING PUBLICLY ABOUT SCIENCE? ‘I’D CLENCH MY BUTTOCKS’ SAYS BISHOP Clergy are interested in science but lack confidence discussing it in public, a new report suggests.

The research, conducted by Equipping Christian Leadership in an Age of Science (ECLAS), surveyed 1,100 clerics, mostly from the Church of England, and interviewed 32 senior church leaders and educators.

Most church leaders surveyed (91 per cent) said that they were having conversations about science, including climate change, evolution and the origins of the universe; 85 per cent had researched, read or watched a TV programme on science in the past year. But the report found a ‘disconnect’ between personal enthusiasm for science and confidence in discussing it in the public domain…

Asked by the researchers, ‘Would you take part in a local radio interview on science and Christianity?’ one anonymous Church of England bishop replied: ‘I’d run a mile!’ Another bishop responded: ‘I’d clench my buttocks!’

Professor Wilkinson, who has a doctorate in theoretical astrophysics, writes: ‘We should not neglect the power of senior church leaders modelling an engagement with science that is not characterised by fear.’

Church Times

SALVATIONIST

CAFOD CALLS FOR WALK AGAINST HUNGER IN LENT

ARCHBISHOPS JOIN CHURCH LEADERS IN CONDEMNING RUSSIAN ATTACK ON UKRAINE

Following the success of Walk4Water last year, Cafod [Catholic Agency for Overseas Development] is urging people to sign up for the Walk Against Hunger challenge this Lent…

Cafod director Christine Allen told The Tablet: ‘The reason we are asking people to walk 200k over Lent is to reflect 200 million children that are facing malnutrition all over the world’…

‘Walk Against Hunger will also be a launchpad for further advocacy work Cafod is planning this year on food systems, asking questions around why people are hungry and what is wrong with existing food systems and connecting with other organisations across Europe.’

The Archbishops of Canterbury and York have joined other church leaders in condemning the Russian attack on Ukraine…

In a joint statement, the Most Rev Justin Welby and the Most Rev Stephen Cottrell said: ‘The horrific and unprovoked attack on Ukraine is an act of great evil… We pray for an urgent ceasefire and a withdrawal of Russian forces. We call for a public decision to choose the way of peace and an international conference to secure long term agreements for stability and lasting peace’…

The Church of Scotland is also joining with the World Communion of Reformed Churches, the Lutheran World Federation, the Conference of European Churches and World Council of Churches to work together to collectively support the churches and people of Ukraine in seeking a peaceful solution.

The Tablet

Premier

POLICE NEED BETTER VETTING FOR ATTITUDES TOWARDS WOMEN AND ETHNIC MINORITIES, ARGUES BISHOP JONES Candidates for the police force should be vetted for their attitudes towards women and ethnic minorities, Bishop James Jones has said. Bishop Jones … told the Church Times: ‘A candidate’s values ought to be examined, as well as their skills.’ Examples were ‘respect for women’ and minorities, as opposed to ‘latent homophobia [and] latent racism’…

The National Police Chaplain, Canon David Wilbraham, has said that police forces are working hard to address issues of ‘diversity, equality and inclusion’…

In both national police bodies and individual police forces, police chaplains often sit on boards and groups aimed at addressing issues linked to ‘race, alongside other aspects of diversity, equality and inclusion’, such as recruitment, Canon Wilbraham said.

There are 470 police chaplains in Britain, and all 43 police forces in England and Wales have a lead chaplain and a team of volunteer police chaplains.

Church Times

salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist Issue No 1848

CONTACT US 020 7367 4890 (main) / 020 7367 4901 (editor) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Simon Hope, Melita Day-Lewis, George Tanton, Major Margaret Bovey ART DIRECTOR Hannah Holden GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight, Louise Phillips PROOFREADER Chris Horne Published weekly by The Salvation Army and printed on paper from sustainable sources by CKN Print, Northampton. © The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory.

ISSN 2516-5909.

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Salvationist 5 March 2022

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@SalvationistUK

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

FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Mal Davies TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN 0845 634 0101

PRAYING FOR PEACE IN October 2012 The Salvation Army held a European congress in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. The weekend’s events followed on from a conference for delegates from central and eastern Europe. They looked back at lessons learnt in the previous two decades in which the Army had returned to, or had first opened in, their countries, discussed current challenges and opportunities and thought about how the work could develop in the future. The conference delegates were joined by more than 1,000 Salvationists from across Europe – east, west, north and south – in the congress titled Forward!, led by General Linda Bond.

There were many inspiring and moving moments in the congress, but two stood out for me. One was when Commissioner Robert Street, the international secretary for Europe, held up a piece of the Berlin Wall given to him by a German Salvation Army officer. It was a physical reminder that barriers had come down between east and west and that we were living in an era of reconciliation, co-operation and stability. The second moment that has stayed with me was when Salvationists representing all parts of Europe stepped on to the platform and linked hands as the congregation sang, ‘They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,/ And sit down in the Kingdom of God.’ The conference and congress were joyful and hopeful occasions, as those present gave thanks for God’s faithfulness in the past and committed themselves to move forward as one Army, with one mission and one message.

Now, almost 10 years later, the situation looks much bleaker in eastern Europe, and possibly the world. Russia and Ukraine are at war – a tragedy for all concerned, especially for civilians caught up in the hostilities, many of whom have been forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighbouring countries. As I write, peace talks have begun, but with no certainty about what the outcome might be. It is not clear how the situation will have developed by the time you read this.

On the day war broke out, General Brian Peddle called on Salvationists across the world to pray. He said, ‘Our service to the Kingdom of God transcends national identity and crosses international borders without prejudice or discrimination. We have officers serving communities in Russia and Ukraine today, and I ask you to pray for them and for those in mourning as this crisis unfolds. We pray for a diplomatic resolution to this conflict and for peace to return swiftly to avoid further loss of life.’ The General acknowledged the strain placed on Salvationists in each country and thanked them for their service. He said, ‘We are dismayed by the loss of life and stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Christ as they continue to serve their communities.’

Salvationists across the world have been praying, and we will need to keep doing so – for the political leaders of Ukraine, Russia and the international community, for those who are suffering, including thousands of refugees, and for The Salvation Army in that part of the world as it responds to the needs of the people.

Lead us forward into freedom, From despair your world release, That, redeemed from war and hatred, All may come and go in peace.

Show us how through care and goodness Fear will die and hope increase.

(SASB 1000)

CONTENTS Quotes from the media

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News

4 and 5

Prayer matters

5

Self-Denial 2022 Bangladesh

6

Victor Mondal talks to Captain Jo Moir

Army snippets

7

by General John Larsson (Retired)

Viewpoint Who do you serve?

8

by Lieut-Colonel Gilbert Ellis

Letters

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Feature 10 and 11 A year in the life of Florence Booth

by Chloe Wilson

Feature 12 and 13 Supporting gender justice

by Hayley Still

Stories of transformation 14 Carolyn Bramhall: Finding freedom in Jesus

by Major Rosemary Dawson

Previews 15 Extreme Crafts for Messy Churches

by Barry Brand and Pete Maidment

The Prodigal Prophet

by Timothy Keller

Review Unveiled

15

reviewed by Major Andrea Still

Bible study Apest: Prophets

16 and 17

by Major Matt Butler

Through the week with 16 and 17 Salvationist

by Major Melvyn Knott

Poetry corner

18

Reflection Finding freedom in service

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by Major John Waters

Reflection God answers prayer

by Brian Colley

New commitments

20

Adverts

21

Announcements

22 and 23

The Salvation Army and me

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featuring Sheena McKenna

From the editor Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts

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

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NEWS

Editor's note: Events reported were held in accordance with the Army’s Covid-19 safety guidance at the time.

EMERGENCY AID

INTERNATIONAL

Salvation Army responds to war in Ukraine EASTERN EUROPE THE Salvation Army has been supporting people in Ukraine affected by the outbreak of war and assisting refugees who have crossed the borders into neighbouring countries.

Corps in Ukraine, which is a division of the Eastern Europe Territory, have been providing food and hygiene items for internally displaced persons. Those arriving in Dnipro received tea, sandwiches and hot meals. In Kropyvnytskyi the Army bought and distributed food aid for 60 refugee families. On Sunday, a number of corps in the country continued their worship meetings, with the officer at Pesochin, a suburb of Kharkiv, leading worship in a bomb shelter.

Over the border in Moldova, the Army set up a 24-hour hotline for Ukrainian refugees seeking assistance, and children at a corps kids club packed relief parcels. Army personnel in Siret, Romania, were on hand to help refugees who had crossed the border.

General Brian Peddle offered some particular points around which to focus prayer, saying: ‘Please pray for peace in this troubled time; pray for the safety of those who are fleeing and for those who are already displaced; pray that there will be adequate hospitality from neighbour countries; pray for faith and courage for every Christian and especially for our officers and soldiers; pray for the de-escalation of the battle so that the threat to life is no longer a reality; and pray that leaders will find a way to dialogue and find a peaceful decision.’ – AR

PRESENTATION

DISS Corps officer Major Nick Cotterill, Band Librarian Phil Hook and Bandmaster Iain Sturgeon presented a set of band tune books to Gertrude Sande before she returned to Zimbabwe for a few weeks. The books will be put to good use by her home corps band. – EH

EVENT

BRIDGWATER The corps launched a new Bible journaling group called Art by Heart. Corps officer Lieutenant Heather Culshaw led the first session. The group of 17 had the opportunity to try different methods of creating something based on a verse of Scripture. Resources and materials were laid out to inspire their creativity and help them draw closer to God through the process. The group enjoyed the opportunity to take some time out and be in God’s presence while sharing together in Christian fellowship. Several packs were also given to those unable to attend. – HC

OUTREACH

SOUTHSEA Corps members, visiting family and friends were delighted to share in celebrating the continuing faithful service of John Burton, who has served as corps sergeant-major for 50 years.

A certificate of recognition and letters of congratulation from Territorial Commander Commissioner Anthony Cotterill and Divisional Commander Major Gregory Morgan were presented to John by corps officer Major Alan Young. Messages of appreciation were also written by members of the fellowship and included in a celebration album. Also pictured is Major Carol Young. – CY 4

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WELLING The corps celebrated the return of the coffee morning, which is an important part of its community programme. People who attend are given the opportunity to pray with volunteers or ask for prayers. The first week back was particularly exciting as volunteers had opportunities to share their faith and God’s word and they were overjoyed to welcome one of the coffee morning guests to Sunday worship. – KS

PRESENTATION LENT: WEEK 1 – BEING INTENTIONAL

by Lyndall Bywater (Prayer Network)

SATURDAY 5 MARCH – OBEDIENCE ‘Obey God’s message! Don’t fool yourselves by just listening to it’ ( James 1:22 Contemporary English Version). Listening takes practice, but so does obeying. Why not use this Lent season to strengthen your ‘obedience muscles’? Listen out for the nudges the Holy Spirit gives you and act on them, even if they seem small and insignificant.

SHERBURN HILL Family and friends gathered to celebrate with Bandmaster Thornton Raine, who retired after 58 years of service. The North East Divisional Fellowship Band led the evening of praise and thanksgiving. Thornton expressed his faith and relationship with God by proclaiming the gospel through music. Corps officer Major Eric Pearce presented him with a certificate and Corps Sergeant-Major Colin Usher shared words of appreciation and presented a gift on behalf of the band members. Letters of congratulation from Director of Music and Creative Arts Stephen Cobb and Music Editorial Manager Andrew Blyth were read out. – EP

SUNDAY 6 MARCH – LISTENING TOGETHER A prayer to pray together: Heavenly Father, help us to learn to hear your voice together. Forgive us when we fail to listen well to one another or when we leave the listening to the leaders. Jesus, we long to talk with you as your disciples did, in easy and honest, tender and close ways. Forgive us when we get caught up in activity and busyness. Holy Spirit, we welcome you in our worship. Forgive us when we drown you out or shut you down. God, help us to become a listening people.

LENT: WEEK 2 – MAKING SPACE

by Lyndall Bywater (Prayer Network)

MONDAY 7 MARCH – EMBRACE THE CHAOS Perhaps you feel your life is more chaotic than well-planned or productive. The Holy Spirit delights to hover over chaos and create new life out of it. At the end of a chaotic day, ask the Spirit to show you where new life is springing up.

TUESDAY 8 MARCH – SACRED SPACE We pack our diaries so tightly that we often leave no room for God to interject. Could you get into the habit of carving out ‘sacred space’ before the important things in life – times with loved ones, vital work meetings, difficult conversations, etc? Instead of rushing in, give yourself half an hour to stop and soak in God’s presence before it starts.

WEDNESDAY 9 MARCH – WALKING THE LONG WAY ROUND Our busyness can stop us listening to God, but so can our routines. We do the same things in the same way, leaving no room for God to surprise us or steer our minds on to different tracks. Wherever you’re going today, instead of taking your usual route, walk or drive the long way round and see what God shows you.

OUTREACH THIRSK A mothers’ push-along group, which was set up during the Covid-19 pandemic to help tackle loneliness and isolation, is thriving and creating lifelong friendships. Set up by pioneer leader Major Paula Haylett, the group is part of a Salvation Army Fresh Expression in the community. ‘The group meets weekly, usually walking a couple of kilometres,’ said Major Paula. ‘My aim was to connect mums who were isolated, particularly due to the Covid-19 pandemic. I know I achieved my aim, because the group of mums who first started to come formed friendships and would often organise meet-ups outside the group.’ Pictured are group members Sophie and Libby. – HW

THURSDAY 10 MARCH – BIBLE BUGGING Perhaps you read a Bible passage in the morning, but do you let it bug you throughout the day? Choose a verse from your reading and call it to mind at least once every half-hour throughout the day (set a reminder on your phone or watch, if that helps). Each time you remember it, stop to ask yourself what it is saying about the situation you find yourself in at that moment.

FRIDAY 11 MARCH – LET BEAUTY INTERRUPT Making space in our diaries is important, but making space in our minds and hearts is even more important, and that’s where art can help us. Beautiful things stop us in our tracks and open our souls to receive from God. Spend time today looking at or listening to something you find beautiful. Don’t rush and don’t have an agenda. Just absorb the beauty and let God give to you.

O A PDF of the Prayer Matters booklet is also available to download from salvationarmy.org.uk/resources Salvationist Salvationist 295January March 2022

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In the last of five articles, Captain Jo Moir talks to Victor Mondal to find out how people are coping with the impact of climate change

Captain Jo Moir picture: Andrew King Photography

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N these weeks leading up to Self-Denial Sunday on 6 March, we’re hearing from people around the world about how The Salvation Army is caring for creation and responding to climate change.

The Self-Denial Appeal is about enabling The Salvation Army’s mission around the world and I’ve been inspired by the people I’ve spoken to over the past month. There’s also a challenge here for all of us: how are we enabling the mission of the Army and how are we caring for God’s creation? While each of us reflect prayerfully on what we can give, remember this is an international appeal: our sisters and brothers the world over are doing the same thing.

This week Victor Mondal highlights the Army’s work in Bangladesh. He is in charge of community development projects and his work includes responding to emergencies and preparing for disasters.

Bangladesh is frequently cited as one of the countries that are most vulnerable to the impact of climate change, as most of its land mass is close to sea level. It’s already one of the world’s most densely populated countries and poverty is widespread. Climate scientists predict higher global temperatures, a rise in sea levels and more rainfall during 6

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the monsoon season, all of which will make things more difficult for people in Bangladesh.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE WITHIN THE SALVATION ARMY? My main responsibility is community development projects in the field, as well as mission support projects in the Bangladesh Command.

The Salvation Army is for the people – we have to do something to help them WHAT ARE YOU SEEING IN TERMS OF CHANGES IN WEATHER PATTERNS AND THE EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE? We are facing a lot of problems here – we’re the victims of climate change.

We get cyclones, storms, flash floods and rain. Last year our project area, and where I live in Jessore, were badly affected by Cyclone Amphan – these areas are very vulnerable and our corps building was damaged. After Amphan hit we took on a project to help rebuild the hall. We also got some support for distributing food in the community.

HOW ARE YOU PIONEERING NEW, INNOVATIVE WAYS OF DOING THINGS? The climate is changing, so we have to think of alternative ways people can survive in these areas. So, while we are working in the community, we offer

an awareness programme. We sit together with people and ask them about alternative ways to grow vegetables, earn money and fish. One idea was to raise the environment of the pond and grow vegetables on top of that area. That way they can harvest more vegetables from the area and also get fish from the pond.

HOW HAS THE PANDEMIC AFFECTED MINISTRY IN BANGLADESH? When it hit, everybody was afraid and had no answer about how to take action regarding the Covid-19 pandemic. But The Salvation Army is for the people. In our project area there are lots of people who are starving. So, what to do? We have to do something to help them. We took the initiative of starting some relief programmes, distributing food packages to people in the community.

ARE THINGS IMPROVING NOW? Most of the people have had their second dose of a Covid-19 vaccine but the problem is that the third wave is coming. Already in our neighbouring country, India, there are a lot of cases.

We have some cases already in Bangladesh. So, we are aware of the challenges of that.

O This article is based on a video that can be viewed at youtube.com/ salvationarmyvideo

CAPTAIN MOIR IS TERRITORIAL COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

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... shared by General John Larsson (Retired)

THE NEARLY-GENERAL RECEIVES A NEW GIFT AT the 1986 High Council, only two candidates remained for the final ballot: Commissioners Eva Burrows and Harry Read. When the result was announced, Commissioner Eva Burrows had been elected General by the narrowest margin in Army history. Had just two votes gone the other way, the Army would have had a General Harry Read.

On the flight back to Sydney, Australia, where he was the territorial commander, Harry Read opened the Scriptures for his devotions and, as he did so, became aware that something very significant was happening to him. To his surprise, it was as though an almost compensatory and wonderful prayer life had been bestowed on him.

‘There was not the faintest of faint thoughts,’ he writes, ‘that the prayer poems would be seen by eyes other than my own. But the Lord, I dare think, had other ideas.’

In his retirement, his daughter Margaret set up a Facebook page for him. At first he felt out of his element and wanted to close the page down. But he persevered.

And so began a weekly miracle of creativity whereby an ever-expanding spiritual family was enriched online through his prayer poems and their subsequent publication in book form.

The song ‘I’ll Not Turn Back’ has it so right: ‘If doors should close then other doors will open…’

AU UNIQUE ARMY FLAG DU DURING the Second World Se W War, British Salvationist S sservicemen who were w prisoners of p war at Changi, Singapore, worshipped in the camp’s roughly built Church of England building. After some time, they were permitted to build their own citadel for meetings.

Salvationist Stanley Leeder noticed that a fellow prisoner was using a disused battalion flag as a night cover, which

had the colours necessary for a Salvation Army flag. lag. E Early arlly ar ly in April 1942 he traded half of his blanket for it.

With his jack-knife he took the original flag to pieces.

Then, with a darning needle, some cotton and an old woollen sock – and using the knife to cut out the star and letters – he created the Army flag pictured. It was first used on 12 April 1942 and became a centrepiece at the citadel.

When the war was drawing to a close, the flag was smuggled out of the camp in a valise with a false bottom.

The flag reached England and became much travelled. It was used by many corps in Britain and Australia as a tribute to the faithfulness and courage of the Salvationist prisoners.

For six years it was on display at Sunbury Court and also featured in a commissioning pageant at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

A HAPPY FATHER JANE Short lodged with the Booths in the early days of The Christian Mission, when their eight children were still young. We are indebted to her for a description of life in the Booth household. ‘William Booth loved singing,’ she wrote.

‘He seldom ran upstairs without singing.’

‘He made it a rule,’ she continued, ‘to give his children a part of his evenings at home, and the children would come charging into the room for a romp with their father. “Fox and geese” was a favourite – with William Booth always in the role of fox. But the most uproarious game of all started with their father prone on the floor and all the children pulling and pushing to get him to sit up. Excitement reached its

height when on the verge of success, the “giant” would sway from side to side and fall back suddenly with most of the children on top of him.

‘One evening, his six-year-old daughter, Emma, amused herself by putting his long hair into curl papers. She worked away until his whole head was covered with twists of paper – such a sight you never saw in your life.

‘When she had finished her work a visitor was announced. Up sprang William Booth and was all but in the hall when the children flung themselves upon his coat-tails and dragged him back screaming with laughter. You can fancy that, when he looked in a glass, he laughed too.’

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VIEW POINT

Who do you serve?

Lieut-Colonel Gilbert Ellis reminds us that we cannot have more than one master

D

O you think you are the master of your destiny? Think again!

In Matthew 6:24, Jesus is quoted as saying: ‘No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.’

When I first came across this verse in my youth, my immediate reaction was: why must I serve anyone? I did not want to serve either God or money – I wanted to be my own master.

While you might also be tempted to deny that you are anyone’s servant, the fact remains that Jesus said you cannot be your own master. The best that you can do is decide who or what will be the governing influence in your life. Who will be your master?

When Harry S Truman was president of the United States, he placed a notice on his desk in the Oval Office: ‘The buck stops here.’ Truman meant that, as the president, he couldn’t dodge responsibilities. One of the problems of being our own master is that we cannot ignore life’s responsibilities and challenges. But choosing Jesus as master means we do not have the same reasons to worry. That’s why Jesus went on to say: ‘Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and 8

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the body more than clothes?’ (Matthew 6:25). Why? Because your heavenly Father knows that you need them. This is the confidence that comes from committing our lives to God and trusting him.

The choice, in one sense, is not difficult to make. It is either/or: whether we serve God – living in his Kingdom – or whether we choose this world, in which money reigns supreme. This is the decision we all face. Will we choose the one who created us? Or will we go for the money, which, if we choose to serve it, will eventually lead to our downfall?

When Moses presented the Ten Commandments to the people of Israel, he implied that they were not to be their own masters (see Exodus 20). God himself would lead them and provide for them in the wilderness.

Later, as the people entered the Promised Land, Joshua challenged them to make a momentous decision regarding their future: ‘But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord’ (Joshua 24:15). No other alternative was given. Joshua’s challenge was to demand a choice between serving the

gods of their ancestors or serving the living God as their Lord.

When Jesus said that we couldn’t serve two masters, he was stating that we must not put our trust in this world.

We must not surrender ourselves to things that can be bought for money, but commit ourselves to serve Jesus and his Kingdom – to those things that money can’t buy and that will never lose their worth or be destroyed. ‘Heaven and Earth will pass away,’ Jesus said, ‘but my words will never pass away’ (Matthew 24:35). He is eternal, the Alpha and Omega, and his Kingdom knows no end.

Nobody enters the Kingdom without making a definite and conscious choice – and it is not possible for your choice to be decided by someone else. When Joshua came with his challenge, it was not good enough for the people to depend on the previous generation that made its choice under Moses. ‘Choose for yourselves,’ said Joshua. We cannot just enter the Kingdom in our sleep, by fate, on the strength of family tradition or even just by accident. It’s our choice that determines the outcome.

LIEUT-COLONEL ELLIS LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN NORWAY

LETTERS

A PERFECT WORLD I WAS most encouraged to read John Laverick’s response (Salvationist 22 January) to my ‘The reason for the season’ Bible study (Salvationist 4 December). In his letter, John challenged me over my assertion that God ‘created a perfect world’.

He correctly points out that the Genesis Creation narratives describe God’s handiwork as ‘good’ (the Hebrew for which is towb) rather than ‘perfect’ (tamim).

He then stated that ‘God’s plan was never to create a “perfect” world to rival Heaven’. I happily agree with the rivalling Heaven part of this statement. I struggle, though, with the logic of God purposely setting out to create an imperfect world.

In the everyday sense of ‘perfect’ meaning ‘complete’, few creative mortals – artists, carpenters, writers – purposely set out to create something that is halfbaked or second-best. In the light of the likes of ‘He is the Rock, his works are perfect [tamim]’ (Deuteronomy 32:4), I can see no logic in God wanting to do that.

In the theological sense of ‘perfect’ being related to moral rectitude and sinlessness, the logical – and unacceptable – conclusion of a less-than-perfect creation is that God is the author of sin.

Nigel Bovey Major Exmouth

PUNISHMENT FOR THE WICKED THE letter from Major Cliff Kent (Salvationist 22 January) raises some interesting questions, as many today do seem to be troubled by The Salvation Army’s doctrine of endless punishment for the wicked. Rob Bell in his book Love Wins describes that view this way: ‘God offers us everlasting life by grace, freely, through no merit on our part. Unless you do not respond in the right way.

Then God will torture you for ever. In Hell.’ That’s why he, along with many others, takes a universalist view that everyone will go to Heaven and that God will reconcile people to himself through Christ. Many people believe in terminal punishment, otherwise known as annihilationism, where the unsaved just disappear from the cosmos. This view appears to be held by some eminent Christians. And then there is the Roman Catholic doctrine of purgatory, a place or state of suffering inhabited by the souls of sinners who are expiating their sins before entry into Heaven.

This is an enormous subject and these are only simple definitions, but it would be interesting to know what people think.

Ken Bartlett Major Street

AN INSPIRING LEGACY GENERAL John Larsson (Retired) was correct to say in his ‘Army snippets’ (Salvationist 5 February) that Arnolis Weerasooriya continues to inspire. It was inspiring to lead a congress in 2006 with a couple of thousand Salvationists under the tamarind tree in Gujarat where, a century or more before, villagers had asked why the sleeping Frederick Tucker had blistered feet. Weerasooriya’s explanation led to the first significant conversions. Tucker said later: ‘I never preached a better sermon than with my feet!’

It was equally inspiring, a few weeks later, to explore the Christian cemetery in Mumbai, looking for the grave of Tucker’s first wife, Louise Mary, and to find by accident Weerasooriya’s gravestone, still well preserved. Together with dates, there were two inscriptions: his motto, ‘Quick march’, and his final words, thought to be from him thinking that he was dictating a letter to Tucker: ‘Yours for the salvation of India.’

Paul du Plessis Commissioner Orpington

BONNET WANTED? THE comment about a bonnet on this page (Salvationist 22 January) reminded me that we still have one, unused and in middling condition, in a box. If anyone wishes to rehome it for amateur drama or any other reason, the first to email wlpaxton17@gmail. com will receive it. It can be posted for free, but if the new owner is able to put extra in the offering on a Sunday, that would be a useful quid pro quo.

Wesley Paxton Lockerbie

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.

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FEATURE I A leader’s diary

A year in the life of Florence Booth To mark International Women’s Day (8 8 March) Chloe Wilson explores the diary of an influential Army leader

F

ROM the origins of The Christian Mission to uniform, musical instruments and overseas ministry, the museum at the International Heritage Centre provides a wide-ranging perspective on The Salvation Army’s history and heritage. But ever since my first step inside, the Social Work section has been my favourite. Relics from the Hadleigh Farm Colony, the Darkest England initiative and the Strawberry Field children’s home tell stories of the Army’s charitable campaigns from the early 1880s. And within the Rescue Work cabinet resides a manuscript diary written by Florence Booth, pioneering leader of The Salvation Army’s Women’s ffrom ro om m1 884– 88 884– 4 1 19 912 2.

Social Work fr 1884–1912. ov vid d-1 19 pa and dem micc I h ad ad During the C Covid-19 pandemic had itty to e xxp plo plo ore r tthe he e ccontents onte on nte tent ten nts the opportunity explore nm ore or e de eta ailil.. of this diary in more detail. n tthe he e ffirst iirrst st p ag ge,, Turning open page, I joined Florence enc ce in n tthe he ssuburbs ub bur u bss n 1 JJanuary anua an uary ua ry 1 885 88 5 to o of London on 1885 own n word wo w ord rds, s a bo b outt learn, in her ow words, about her lillife. he ife e. this chapter o off her new w ye yyear’s a ’s ar s In the style o off a ne o en or e ce c p le edg gess h er ffirst irsst ir st resolution, Florence pledges her ds so the e ye ea arr a s penned words off th year as m[. [ ] A ye year ar o ffaith iti h & ho h ope ‘Vegetarianism[.] off fa hope edia ed ia ate ely ssignposting ignp ig npos np ostitit ng os gh err & love’, immediately her sself-improvement, elflff--iimpro mpro mp r ve veme m nt me nt,, he h dedication to se herr heart-warming optimism and her ng opti op ptit mi mism ma nd dh e er ate at eo ou utltloo oo ook ok up u pon on tthe he w orld or l . compassionate outlook upon world. bod die i d th hese esse valu va alu uess a nd, nd Florence embodied these values and, evel evel ev e op ops, ops, s, w e wi witn tnes tn ess he es ess h er as the diary d develops, we witness her eshi es hip, hi p, w p, ak a kin i g ea earl rlyy to rl o active discipleship, waking early carve out individual with Lord’ ivi v du d al ‘‘time ttiime m w itith th tthe he Lo orrd d’ and drawing st strength herr fa faith stre re eng ngth th ffrom th ro om he h fait itith h fo forr

pub blilicc leadership, whether att public one on e meetings or in one-to-one encounters. atit on a nd d Florence’s determination and gh h in in her he er account ac cco coun unt un unt capability shine through tin ing g primarily prim pr im mar a ililyy off of daily duties, consisting managing social work finances, fin nan ance ces, ce s, s, ppor pp ort to women’s or wom omen en’s en ’s s providing practical support stic st ic service ser ervi v ce vi ce shelters, finding domestic g rlss an rl a d positions for ‘rescued’ gi girls and peri pe rien ri e ce en cess – al a documenting their experiences allllll the while caring for two o children child hiild ldre r n under re unde un de er the age of three.

However, this diary reve reveals re eve veal a s itits al ts role ro ole le as a secure space where ere er e Florence Fllorren Flor e ce e expresses her innermost ostt emotions, os emot em otio io ons ns,, including fears of failure re and and at at times titime mes mes me

feeling fe eel e iin ng ‘d ‘downhearted’ dow wnh hea eartte ed d’ an and nd ‘d ‘depressed’. depre epress ep re ess ssed ed d’’..

Despite D De esp e sspit sp pitiite pit e an an o outward utwa ut ward w wa rd demonstration rd dem emon onst onst sstra rattiion o ra off competence, co om mp pet e en ncce e, in e, n tthis hiis pr his p private ivvat ate ch ate cchannel hanne nell of o tthought th o gh ou ht sh sshe he ex e exhibits hb hi biits a ttendency endenc ende en de ency ncy to nc towards owa w rd ds self-consciousness self se lfl -ccon o sc sciio ous usne n ss a ne and nd a lack lac ackk o of confidence, conf co nfid nf id den ence ce, pa p particularly rrtticcul u ar arlyy tto o en e enth enthuse nth hu use an a and d others ‘Oh! How were lead le ad do th herrs – ‘O Oh! h H ow I wish ow wissh I we w ere a talker could inspire people.’ ta alk lker er tthat ha at co oul u d insp in nsp spir pir i e pe peop o le op le..

In n contrast con ontr ttrra ra astt wi as w with th tthis his em hi emotional mot otio iona io na a candour, att tittimes by ca cand and ndou our, ou r, a r, mes I wa me mes wass st sstruck ru uckk b extraordinary e ex xtr trao tr aord ao rd din inar a y la laps lapses p ess iin ps n in information nfo ormat rm mat at that led le d to to a ssprinkling prinkl pr in nkl klin ing in g of ssurprises u pr ur p is ises es s throughout th hro oug u h ho out tthe he d diary. iary ia ry.. T ry Th The he he mo most prominent prom pr om miin nen entt be b being ing in g th tthe he fifirs first rstt in rs indication n her pregnancy her day of of h err p e r gn re gnan an ncy on on he er d delivery, April 1885: de d elliivve eryy, 21 21 A prrili 1 p 8 5: 88 5: ‘‘Obliged to to ssend en e nd fo forr Mr Mrss Cr Crick ric ickk a after tea – Ba Baby aby b born orn or n at a 1 1.15.’ .15 .1 5..’.’

5 Such Su ch h iinconsistencies ncon nc on o nsi sist sten st e ci en ci em emphasise mph phas assisse th the e ac acutely cut ue personal pe ersson nal al a and nd d ssubjective ub bje ectiv ctiv ct ve esse es essence senc se nc ce off d diaries iari ia r ess iintended ri nten nt en ende nde ded d fo for the author’s eyes rather an au a uth thor or’s or ’s e ye es ra rath th her tthan han ha n as as a n in-depth

FLORENCE BOOTH: A TIMELINE 12 SEPTEMBER 1861

1881

12 OCTOBER 1882

DECEMBER 1890

11 OCTOBER 1910

Florence Eleanor Soper is born

Florence pioneers Army work in France with Kate Booth

Florence marries Bramwell Booth

Florence announces the foundation of the Women’s League in the War Cry

Florence lays the foundation stones of the Women’s Social Work Headquarters in London

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Salvationist 5 March 2022

an and nd instructive inst in stru uct c ive ivve historical h record ord or d fo for or late la ate terr rre ead a e errs. s W e ccontexts o te on extts later readers.

While in some th hiss w oulld ou db e se sseen e as a fallibility billitityy of o the the h this would be diar di iar ary ass a h issto isto torr den entititify fyyin ng diary historical source, id identifying th the he in nfo form rm mat atio io on tthat Florence ch hos o e to t information chose incl incl in clud ud de or e xcclu l d contributes s tto o ou ur include exclude our understanding and unde un de ders ers r ta t nd ndin in ng off her character err a nd d provides pr p rov ovid ides id es s a rrealistic ea aliist s portrayal o off h he her er llilived ive ved ex expe xpe peri rien ence en e. experience.

IlIllness lln nesss and a d death an de ea shadow the he e diary dia ary y tthroughout, th rro oug gho out u , st tri rikkiin a close chord riki hord ho r iin rd n the the th striking lillight ligh igh ghtt of of o ur ttwo ur wo yyears e em e mic ic.. As A our of pandemic. w we ell as as the th he death dea de atth of Florence’s so ow wn well own m mo tth he err – jjust u taw us Flor orre en nce ce mother week before Fl Florence g ga ve b irrth th tto o he er second daughter, ghte gh t r, te r, M aryy ar gave birth her Mary – we we e xp per erie erie en nc cce e through the di d iar arry th the e experience diary em mot otio io on na al burd bu urd rden e of the deteriorating en riior o atting in ng emotional burden he ea allth h of of her he er m mo ot C athe at h ri he r ne health mother-in-law, Catherine Bo oot o h. h. From Fro om dy yse eiz izur u ess tto ur o Booth. dysentery and seizures ‘‘an ‘a n attack atttack atta ta ackk of of her he er heart’, h errn fo or concern for Ca C ath ther erin in ne’ e s we elllb s th he di d iar ary, y, Catherine’s wellbeing peppers the diary, iilillustrating llu usttra ati t ng gap ervv er llllne n ss ne ss pervading fear off iillness and fatality an nd the the ffa th atali ata ta alil tyy tthat h frequently attended it in Victorian Britain.

This theme strikes in the first few pages of the diary as Florence agonises over the poor health of her daughter, Catherine, and her husband, Bramwell, who are ‘very poorly’ for most of the winter, suffering periodically from colds, coughs and fevers. Catherine, who was their firstborn, would live on to the impressive age of 104, which seems an unlikely achievement given Florence’s descriptions of her health during infancy.

In contrast, long days of preaching, late nights and frequent travel seem to have taken their toll on Bramwell, fostering fatigue and illness – and concern from

Rebecca Jarrett Florence. On 11 February she writes: ‘B still very poorly. Took his breakfast in bed – first time since we have been married.’

Throughout the diary, Florence’s affection and admiration for Bramwell are evident. She repeatedly refers to him as ‘my precious love’ and ‘my darling one’ and declares in November: ‘I love him more and more.’

Another developing relationship that features prominently in the diary is Florence’s friendship with Rebecca Jarrett. Florence introduces us to Rebecca in January when, after a period of illness, Rebecca undergoes a crisis of faith, teetering on the precipice

her er former fo orm or rmer life as a brothel mistress. off her F or Fl o en ence cce e’ss restoration of Rebecca’s faith Florence’s w th wi t an an intense in nte t with evening of prayer and re eflf ec e tit on o proves p reflection pivotal as Rebecca g ess on go on to o play a central role in the goes infamous Tribute of Modern infa in f mo fa mous u ‘Maiden us ‘M Babylon’ exposé of London’s child Baby Baby Ba b lo lon’ n e n’ x s xse x trraf affififick cckk sex-trafficking scene for which she, B am Br mwell well and we a WT Stead were put on Bramwell trial tria tr ia al att the the e Old O Bailey.

Through Thro Th ro ou ug gh Florence’s diary we receive a blow-by-blow account of the court blow bl ow-b ow -b byy-b b proceedings p occee pr e di ding ng g from the perspective of one on ne whose wh w hosse life would be changed immeasurably should her husband be imme im meas assur ura a convicted. co onvviccte ted d. Bramwell was destined to d. become The be eco come me T h Salvation Army’s second General Ge G ene era rall and, an n as well as supporting a wife wife f and and two tw young children, was already figure within the alre al read re adyy a prominent ad p Movement.

Move Mo Move eme ment n . To Florence’s relief nt Bramwell Brram mwe welllll was w acquitted, but Rebecca went on to serve a six-month sentence, throughout which she was visited by Florence, cementing a friendship that would last until Rebecca’s death in 1928.

Through Florence’s diary we witness the responsibilities, rewards and trials of faith, leadership, marriage, motherhood and womanhood in late Victorian Britain.

Her diary offers us a unique perspective on the origins and workings of The Salvation Army’s Women’s Social and Rescue Work as well as poignant insights into the personality and life of one of the Army’s most influential women.

O Keep

20 AUGUST 1912

1913

MARCH 1919

10 JUNE 1957

Florence becomes Mrs General Bramwell Booth

Florence travels throughout Europe, lecturing on behalf of The Salvation Army

Florence is appointed British Commissioner

Florence Booth is promoted to Glory

up with the International Heritage Centre blog at salvationarmy. org.uk/international-heritage-centreblog CHLOE IS ARCHIVE ASSISTANT, INTERNATIONAL HERITAGE CENTRE Salvationist 5 March 2022

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FEATURE I 2022 Helping-Hand Appeal

Supporting gender justice Ahead of International Women’s Day (8 March), Hayley Still introduces this year’s Helping-Hand Appeal, which focuses on ensuring women around the world have equal access to rights, opportunities and freedom to flourish

H

UMANKIND was created in God’s image – men and women equal in the eyes of God. Yet women are disproportionately affected by poverty, the climate crisis and genderbased violence.

Domestic abuse is a universal issue, not bound by social status, wealth or gender. However, most victims are female, with almost one in three women around the world experiencing intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime.

In Tres Arroyos, Argentina, The Salvation Army supports women who have experienced or are currently experiencing domestic abuse. In this safe space women are welcomed, listened to and supported through their journey. The Salvation Army facilitates group therapy sessions with the support of a psychologist. Women are invited to share their experiences in a supportive

and non-judgemental setting and find personal solutions and ways of breaking the cycle of abuse they are in. Here, women have found solidarity and sanctuary.

One woman who has been part of the group is Elena*. She was born and raised in Tres Arroyos and had a difficult childhood. Elena became estranged from her father when she was six years old, after he and her mother separated.

When Elena was older, her mother started a relationship with a man who did not treat Elena or her mother well.

In later life Elena married and had two children, a boy and a girl. Although the marriage started well, over time her husband became verbally abusive. He began to be controlling and, having moved the family out to the countryside, he restricted where Elena could go. She 12

Salvationist 5 March 2022

was prevented from seeing her friends and family and was often only allowed to travel with him.

On one occasion Elena travelled to the city to run some errands and visit her daughter. Elena explains that her daughter had pleaded with her to get away from her father: ‘She said to me, “I shouldn’t say this, but I want you to leave him. I see that Dad is not treating you well. Please, don’t tell him I said that, but I know you can move forward without him.”’

Elena found it difficult to recognise the abuse in her own life: ‘At first, I didn’t realise he was treating me badly. People would notice the yelling and the abuse, but I would not acknowledge it. To me that was normal.’

Eventually, Elena listened to her daughter and made the decision to

HOW TO HELP During this year, corps and groups across the UK and Ireland will raise money for the Helping-Hand Appeal, and you can join them.

Order flyers and posters by calling 020 7367 4777 or download resources from salvationarmy.org. uk/helpinghand2022. £10 could provide functional education classes for women in Bangladesh, so they understand their rights and can protect themselves from exploitation. £25 could buy materials for Tres Arroyos’ Learning Through Play sessions for children who are exposed to violence at home.

In the group Elena found friendship and the encouragement to keep moving forward

leave. Elena’s husband had told her lies about her family and made her believe they did not love her and would not want to see her. Despite this, she reached out to her mother who welcomed her into her home. Elena had only her clothes with her when she left her husband and was able to stay with her mother until she could afford a place of her own.

Elena worked seven days a week to earn enough money to afford to rent her own place. She says: ‘I was working a lot. For months I didn’t take a day off.

I wanted to build my life.’

It was during this time that an acquaintance of Elena’s invited her to join the group at The Salvation Army.

‘I was feeling bad, alone,’ she explains. ‘So, I decided to go.’

As part of the group Elena was able to tell her story and recognised the

importance of sharing her experience with others.

‘Before the group, I was crying all the time and I kept wondering if I was the one who did things wrong,’ she says. ‘I wasn’t the kind of person that would go to someone and talk about what was happening. I tried to sort all that out on my own, so that made it worse.’

In the group Elena found friendship and the encouragement to keep moving forward. She now tries to support other women who are in a similar situation to her.

‘I tell my story to others and try to help,’ she explains, ‘and I invite others to the group.’

Alongside the group therapy sessions for women, the programme also runs Learning Through Play sessions for children who are exposed to violence at home. Through fun and engaging activities, boys and girls are encouraged to find non-violent responses to different situations and take part in breaking the cycle of abuse in their families.

Domestic abuse is just one form of

£60 could set up eight child marriage prevention committees in Bangladesh, helping to challenge this practice, which violates girls’ human rights.

You can donate via your corps or Family Ministries group or online at salvationarmy.org.uk/ helpinghand2022.

violence against women and girls.

Therefore, this project is only one element of The Salvation Army’s international gender justice work. The Army supports projects that aim to address domestic abuse or sexual exploitation through the prevention of violence, supporting victims out of that violence and/or responding to the recovery needs of survivors. We also work to ensure that gender equality and equity is mainstreamed throughout the projects for which we provide technical and financial support.

HAYLEY STILL IS UK ENGAGEMENT CO-ORDINATOR, INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS OFFICE, THQ *Name has been changed Salvationist 5 March 2022

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FEATURE I Stories of transformation

Carolyn Bramhall: Finding freedom in Jesus Major Rosemary Dawson continues a series in which she remembers some of the inspirational people she met while working on the War Cry

A

DARK and terrifying secret lay behind Carolyn Bramhall’s apparently normal childhood in rural England.

Between the ages of 3 and 13, she was subjected to systematic satanic ritual abuse by close family members.

These experiences severely affected her health, culminating in a condition called dissociative identity disorder (DID).

‘DID is a severe defence mechanism, when the mind siphons off feelings to different areas,’ Carolyn explained. ‘It’s the only way a child can survive such appalling experiences and allows them to develop with no memory of the incident. But the memories surface eventually, usually in adulthood.’

One thing remained constant throughout Carolyn’s long years of suffering: her faith in the presence of a loving God. ‘Ever since my Sunday school days, I knew Jesus was there. I never doubted his presence. I was 14 when I asked Jesus into my life, but didn’t understand how important that was going to be.’

Carolyn started self-harming in her teens. At Bible college, she developed depression, crying voices in her head and night terrors – ‘when you see and hear things that induce excruciating terror’.

But good things happened too. She met her husband, John, and together they worked for a church in the north of England where their two children were born.

Carolyn’s ordeal continued during work for a church in California. After a hospital stay – brought on by flashbacks she couldn’t handle – it was suggested that she try therapy. Other personalities began making their presence felt in her mind, each carrying some aspect of her painful childhood secret.

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Salvationist 5 March 2022

After two years John and the children returned to the UK, but Carolyn stayed on.

‘I was too frightened,’ she said. ‘The voices in my head told me that the only way I would return was in a coffin. My husband wasn’t aware of the full extent of my illness. He had the children to look after and I felt guilty for leaving him with it all.’

Carolyn was diagnosed with DID, previously known as multiple personality disorder. With medical help – and the prayerful and practical support of church friends – she slowly began to recover.

‘To call it “multiple personality disorder” is misleading,’ she explained.

‘I had one personality, which was fragmented and pulled apart. These became alternative personalities – “alters” – all with separate names and distinct characters, dealing with fear, anger and so on.

‘An alter is a love-starved part of a hurting person. It protects and keeps bad memories separate from them.

That’s why alters react so strongly when they are challenged or threatened by returning memories.’

Carolyn describes one counselling session when she heard the terrified screams of a small child. They gradually faded to a pathetic wail: ‘No more, no more.’ Then came the counsellor’s reassuring voice: ‘You are just remembering. You are safe now. No one’s going to hurt you anymore.’

Carolyn recognised those screams.

That child was her. Eventually she felt able to return to her family.

‘I prayed there would be someone to understand my problem; I couldn’t handle any more prayers to cast out demons. People from the Freedom in Christ Ministries suggested a healing programme called the Seven Steps.

What had I got to lose?

‘My life began to improve from that first day. As I chose to believe the truth of who I am in Christ, something inside me was released. I finally accepted that Jesus had already set me free by dying for me on the cross. I just had to believe in it and live by it.

‘As I became stronger in my own identity, my friends called each alter by name and asked them to choose to believe in Jesus. The reason for their existence – the protection of my fragmented personality – had gone, and therefore I could invite them to join me in one whole person. When they did, the pieces of the puzzle were put together again.

‘I have forgiven my abusers. I feel no hatred or anger towards them. I no longer have to find my identity in victimisation; I have found it in what God has done for me and who he has made me.’

O Carolyn’s

story is told in her book Am I A Good Girl Yet?, available from amazon.co.uk priced £7.99 (plus postage and packing)

MAJOR DAWSON LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN ST AUSTELL O Based

on an article published in the War Cry, 5 August 2006

PREVIEWS

REVIEW

Extreme Crafts for Messy Churches

by Barry Brand and Pete Maidment

I

N this revised and expanded edition, Barry Brand and Pete Maidment offer 80 activities for Messy Church sessions, carefully crafted to appeal to more adventurous participants. They feature sections on Big Stuff, Construction, Science, Arty Crafts and Edible Crafts, all accompanied by mess, danger and difficulty ratings.

‘Girls, boys, men and women are all capable of doing the same things and enjoying similar activities when it comes to Messy Church,’ say the authors. ‘This book, then, isn’t a list of crafts for men, and it’s not a list of men’s activities. Rather, it’s a selection of some of the more extreme activities that we’ve had a go at in our Messy Churches, which have given us real enjoyment. Above all, though, it’s a list of things for you to do, as adults and children together, to try something new and to learn about following Jesus in this crazy world we live in.

‘Our science experiments build on people’s natural desire to solve problems and understand things: they’re messy and fun, but they stretch the imagination too, expecting us to think outside the box to try to see how something is done or how it works.’

Crafts for Messy Churches is available from sps-shop.com priced £9.99 (plus postage and packing)

O Extreme

The Prodigal Prophet

by Timothy Keller

W

E already know the story. There is a cantankerous and stubborn prophet, a storm and a fish big enough to swallow a man whole. Then the prophet is spat out and is no longer as stubborn. But there is more to it than that. In The Prodigal Prophet, pastor and bestselling author Timothy Keller helps us to go beyond the Sunday school version of Jonah’s story and reveals its hidden depths.

The author makes the case that Jonah was one of the worst prophets in the Bible. Yet there are clear connections between Jonah, the prodigal son and Jesus. How could one of the most defiant and disobedient prophets in the Bible be compared to Jesus?

Jonah’s journey also doesn’t end when he is freed from the belly of the fish. There is an entire second half to his story, but it is left unresolved.

Why does the book of Jonah end on what is essentially a cliffhanger?

Timothy Keller provides an answer and shares the Christian message at the heart of it, exploring how we often run from what God wants for us, and explaining how we can come back.

Prodigal Prophet is available from amazon.co.uk priced £4.99 (plus postage and packing) and as a Kindle ebook for the same price

O The

An insightful book of hope Major Andrea Still (Portsmouth Citadel) reviews Unveiled: Women of the Old Testament and the Choices They Made

by Clare Hayns

I

N a culture where women were considered inferior, with few choices and little influence, we know that there were several throughout the Old Testament who bucked this trend.

Some women in the Hebrew Scriptures are well known, while others are barely mentioned.

In this interesting book, the author has carefully researched the context of the Old Testament passages she chooses and reflects upon the women’s lives and choices.

We have much to learn from them. Some are mothers, prophets, leaders or virtuous in their influence. But they are not all heroines or positive role models: others actively work against the people of God. Even they, however, still have much to teach us about how God deals with sin, restores and forgives.

Unveiled is written with frankness and humour. As well as focusing on the characteristics these women are known for, the author draws out other aspects of their lives. It helps us to recognise that God doesn’t see the human divisions that society imposes on people, but enables us to rise above them and become the people he wants us to be.

It is an insightful book of hope as we tackle injustices today.

Written as reflections with beautiful artwork, this book will be helpful for a daily devotional, with application for today’s living and a prayer. is available from sps-shop.com priced £10.99 (plus postage and packing)

O Unveiled

Salvationist 5 March 2022

15

Picture: Watercolour by Louise Phillips

BIBLE STUDY

Apest: Prophets Major Matt Butler highlights those who bring correction and challenge to God’s people EPHESIANS 4:1–16

M

Y memory is worse than that of a goldfish. I don’t even need to walk upstairs to forget where I am going or what I am supposed to be getting. Sometimes, I head out forgetting things I will need that day. I am grateful to my wife and others who call me back or remind me not to forget what I need.

QUESTION O What things do you forget when leaving the house?

On realising that we have forgotten something, we have two choices: to carry on regardless or to go back and fetch what we need.

In our study passage, Paul reminds us of the gifts of Christ to the Church – apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds and teachers (see v11

Through the week with Salvationist – a devotional thought for each day

by Major Melvyn Knott

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Salvationist 5 March 2022

English Standard Version). This study focuses on prophets.

In The Pulse of Christ, Nathan Brewer writes: ‘Prophetic individuals are uniquely gifted by Jesus to creatively connect to and express the Father’s heart, inspiring faithfulness to God and justice in the world.’

Prophets call us back into relationship with God and focus our response to the world with the heart of God. They are vital to any church community but, like Jesus, are not always welcome.

In the synagogue at Nazareth, Jesus outlined his mission and then warned: ‘Truly I tell you … no prophet is accepted in his home town’ (Luke 4:24). This truth was confirmed when his congregation tried to push him over a cliff (see Luke 4:28 and 29).

Why this tension? Alan Hirsch comments: ‘Prophets … are particularly attuned to God and his

truth for today. They bring correction and challenge the dominant assumptions we inherit from the culture. They insist that the community obey what God has commanded. They question the status quo.’

The prophets in the Old Testament call God’s people back to him. Micah reminds us to ‘act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God’ (Micah 6:8). Amos brings together themes that recur throughout the words of the prophets, including condemnation of immorality, warning of coming judgement, an appeal to turn back to God in order to obtain mercy and a reminder that God is holy and loving. Malachi deals with apathy.

He emphasises that God wants the best we have to offer, not the least we can get away with. He writes: ‘“Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty’ (Malachi 3:7).

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

‘The people to whom I am sending you are obstinate and stubborn. Say to them, “This is what the Sovereign Lord says.” And whether they listen or fail to listen – for they are a rebellious people – they will know that a prophet has been among them. And you, son of man, do not be afraid of them or their words… You must speak my words to them.’

(Ezekiel 2:4–7)

He came to give us life in all its fullness,/ He came to make the blind to see,/ He came to banish death and doubt and darkness,/ He came to set his people free./ He liberating love imparted,/ He taught men once again to smile;/ He came to bind the broken hearted,/ And God and man to reconcile.

(SASB 139)

In the eighth month of the second year of Darius, the word of the Lord came to the prophet Zechariah son of Berekiah, the son of Iddo: ‘The Lord was very angry with your ancestors.

Therefore tell the people: this is what the Lord Almighty says: “Return to me,” declares the Lord Almighty, “and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty.’

(Zechariah 1:1–3)

QUESTIONS O How do you seek intimacy with God? O To what extent do you find yourself drawn to areas of justice?

O Have you felt left out or misunderstood as a prophet?

O What is God calling you back to?

Some corps will contain individuals who are more naturally wired to function as prophets – it is the lens through which they see the world.

However, maturity sees all five functions being present and expressed across the entire body of the Church.

Our corps and wider denominational culture must ensure that we have all five functions present and active – including the prophetic.

The Salvation Army is a holiness movement that is not only rooted in intimacy with God but also seeks justice for people. They go hand-inhand.

To be focused on our relationship with God while being disengaged from the world leaves us irrelevant and ineffective. To be focused on doing good without the strong foundation of intimacy with God leaves us looking indistinguishable from any other justice movement.

Prophets ensure that we do not forget the covenantal love of God and the need for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. They put us in a place where we can powerfully engage with issues of justice from a biblical foundation.

As we explore new ideas for mission, we need the energy and creativity of those first apostles and a let’s-do-this attitude. Unhindered by logic, we need to step out without fear of the future or captivity to failures of the past.

May we allow the prophetic voice to offer discernment and encouragement, ensuring that our good ideas are God’s ideas. May we allow the prophetic voice

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

I heard him speak peace to the angry waves,/ Of that turbulent, raging sea;/ And lo! at his word are the waters stilled,/ This stranger of Galilee;/ A peaceful, a quiet and holy calm,/ Now and ever abides with me;/ He holdeth my life in his mighty hands,/ This stranger of Galilee.

(SASB 144)

‘And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.’

(Matthew 5:40–42)

to call us into deeper intimacy with God, which will empower us to be greater champions of justice.

QUESTIONS O Where do you see prophetic culture within The Salvation Army?

O How do you maintain a God-centred life?

O Can you identify any prophets in your corps or among Salvation Army leaders?

As we continue to love God and love others, may we ensure that the voice of the prophets calls us back to the heart of the Father and keeps us all on track.

MAJOR MATT BUTLER IS CORPS OFFICER, BOGNOR REGIS, AND APEST LEAD ENABLER, SOUTH EAST DIVISION

FRIDAY My heart is fixed, eternal God,/ Fixed on thee;/ And my unchanging choice is made,/ Christ for me./ He is my Prophet, Priest and King,/ Who did for me salvation bring,/ And while I’ve breath I mean to sing:/ Christ for me.

Prayer (SASB 507)

Dear God, thank you that you reveal your truths through the prophets of the past and today. May they be attuned to your word and may we be receptive and respond to the thoughts they present to us.

SATURDAY ‘He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead. All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.’

(Acts 10:42–44)

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Poetry corner Peace to the World The dedication song for the Messengers of Peace session of Salvation Army officer cadets There are people who need loving in the world, There is loneliness and heartache in the world; There is conflict, there is friction, There’s abuse and there’s addiction, There’s mistrust and deep affliction in the world.

There are stressed and anxious people in the world, There is poverty and hardship in the world; There is sadness and dejection, There is hatred and rejection, There is doubt and introspection in the world.

There are fires of fierce aggression in the world, There’s injustice and oppression in the world; There is fear and apprehension, There is strain and there is tension, There is suffering and suppression in the world.

We Look for You Can be sung to the tune ‘Finlandia’

A Prayer for Lent and Springtime Lord of green and growing spring – Whose gentle power Waylays us in an unexpected flower – Today we bring Garlands of mingled hope and fear; But you are here, Though fears prevail and hopes are few: God of springtime, make us new.

Christ of sad and solemn Lent, We watch you go Towards a cruel trial whose end we know; And so present New wreaths of joy to crown your pain: For you will reign.

Such is our faith – so strangely true: God of springtime, make us new.

Almighty Victor, Easter King – Who played and won, And proved that love sustains the stars and sun – We dare to bring Our fragile lives for grace to fill With glad goodwill; And speak, in simplest love, with you.

God of springtime, make us new.

JOHN COUTTS

What can I do or say to show a better way?

In this moment I can only pray: Lord Jesus fill my life with your peace, My knowledge of yourself increase, Then I will be equal to the work you have assigned, And I will be ready for the task you have designed.

Only as your peace fills my heart Can I hope your peace to impart, So Jesus take me, Lord Jesus, make me A messenger of peace to the world.

COMMISSIONER KEITH BANKS

O Lord, our God, We look for you in springtime; We see the buds grow through the frosty ground, We find the newborn lambs in bright green meadows And know your work on Earth is all around.

The world’s reborn in beauty and in splendour, Your majesty and mighty power abound.

O Lord, our God, We look for you in summer; The brightest sun shines down on all our days, The time when all around is bright and cheerful, The Earth majestic from your wondrous ways.

We know that you are watching down upon us, So thank you, Lord, we give you all the praise.

O Lord, our God, We look for you in autumn; The golden leaves resplendent on the trees, The fruits of harvest gather all around us And fields of corn give food with all its seeds.

May we be grateful and be ever thankful That you supply and care for all our needs.

O Lord, our God, We look for you in winter; The colder days with mountains capped with snow, The time we celebrate the newborn Christ child, Who came to Earth, so many years ago.

Though time has passed, we always will remember You sent your Son, your peace and love to show.

O Lord, we know That you are always with us, As seasons pass your faithfulness stays true.

Though years move on our love will never falter, So may our voices always sing for you; Lifting our hearts we’ll ever stand united To praise you, Lord, in everything we do.

MARK AYLING

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Salvationist 5 March 2022

RE R EFL FLEC ECT TIION ON REFLECTION

REFL RE FLEC FL ECTI TION TI REFLECTION EC ON

Major John Waters continues a series of reflections on classic prayers

God answers prayer

Finding freedom in service

Brian Colley (Clowne) continues a series of reflections on verses from Psalms

A

UGUSTINE, the bishop of Hippo, was born in what is now Algeria to a father who remained unbaptised until just before death and a mother who was most devout. Although Augustine was brought up as a Christian, he was captivated by the accepted customs of his time, taking a concubine and having a child when he was just 18 years old. The child, curiously, was named Adeodatus – ‘given by God’.

In the same year, 372, his thoughts turned towards Christianity and his eventful conversion is a powerful illustration of the fact that the Holy Spirit is not tied to any one means of bringing people to Christ.

Augustine was inspired first of all by one of the philosophical dialogues of Cicero and secondly by hearing the sermons of Ambrose in the cathedral at Milan – he was attracted by the eloquence of the preacher and only later by the substance of the discourse. But converted Augustine was, and not many years later, in 395, he was consecrated bishop. Here is one of his most familiar prayers: Almighty God, In whom we live, and move and have our being, Thou hast made us for thyself, So that our hearts are restless until they find their rest in thee; Grant us purity of heart and strength of purpose, That no selfish passion may hinder us from knowing thy will, No weakness from doing it; But that in thy light we may see light, And in thy service find perfect freedom; Through Jesus Christ our Lord.

That last statement recognises one of the paradoxes of the Christian faith – and the apparent tension between being constrained by duty and service and yet remaining free. It is a paradox that also exists even in secular societies that would call themselves free, and is illustrated in the present UK concerns about free speech. There is a responsibility, which curtails the freedom to express our convictions, not to unnecessarily incite violence or to offend others.

In spiritual matters we choose to accept or reject the call of Jesus but, having accepted him as Saviour and Lord, it would be perverse, even absurd, not to bind ourselves to his teaching and will. Yet this is not a grudging servitude – it is a commitment that ends the restlessness of the human spirit and finds its peace and fulfilment in its natural home, the very presence of God. Amen – so be it.

MAJOR WATERS LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN BIDDULPH MOOR

The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer (Psalm 6:9)

W

HEN seeking the answers to our problems in God’s word, the psalms can be a good place to start. They are helpful because the writers seem to have gone through the same emotions that we experience, from depression to elation.

Human nature and spiritual moods have seemingly not changed down through the ages.

In Psalm 6, the psalmist is depressed and cries out to God in sorrow: ‘I am worn out from my groaning. All night long I flood my bed with weeping and drench my couch with tears’ (v6). He pleads with God to save him and, before the prayer is ended, there is a realisation that God has heard his desperate plea and it will be answered. This is typical of many who are driven by distressing circumstances to pray, often as a last resort when all other efforts and avenues have failed.

Often there is then surprise when the prayer is answered. Yet from previous experience they know God has responded.

‘I believe God answers prayer;/ He’s answered mine before’ (SASB 761).

God hears and answers prayers in the same way he did with the psalmist.

Knowing this, why is prayer often seen to be the last chance of solving any problem when it should be the first? Why the surprised reaction when God answers our prayers? Jesus promised us everything asked in his name would be heard and answered (see John 14:14). When we pray, we should start by respectfully addressing our heavenly Father and end with ‘in the name of Jesus’.

Prayer is recognised by the psalmist as the answer to his problems and it is usually the answer to ours. If we only trust in God, our sorrow can be changed to elation.

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NEW COMMITMENTS Editor’s note In-person meetings were held in accordance with Army safety guidance at the time.

PENZANCE Corps officer Major Vincent Wall enrolled Jess Robinson as a soldier. Jess linked up with the corps lunch club with her good friend, Marian.

When the corps programme was suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Jess and Marian kept in touch with the corps through the lunch club volunteers and monthly newsletter. Sadly, Marian was promoted to Glory during the pandemic but, when the corps reopened for worship, Jess started to attend the weekly holiness meeting and felt called to make her covenant with God as a soldier. Also pictured are acting CSM Beryl Pollard and RS John Gosling. – VW

STAVELEY Beverley Revell and Peter Yates were enrolled as soldiers by Divisional Commander Major Brian Slinn and Suzanne Elkins was welcomed as an adherent by TE Pam Ripper. Beverley and Peter have been members of The Salvation Army since birth, having been on the cradle roll then becoming junior soldiers, corps cadets, songsters and band members. Suzanne has been attending the corps for more than a year, during which time she has been warmly welcomed. She now feels that she would like to make the corps her spiritual home. – VO

HARPENDEN Lisa Charman was welcomed into the fellowship as an adherent. Lisa testified that she had attended services on and off with her husband, Jeremy, a soldier at the corps, and in recent months began to attend regularly.

On Covenant Sunday, Lisa felt God calling her to a deeper commitment to become an adherent. She is pictured with corps officer Major Annette Guest. – AG 20

Salvationist 5 March 2022

BALLYMONEY Jennifer Archibald first linked up with The Salvation Army at the beginning of 2020 by attending a midweek drop-in. She wanted to become a volunteer and, after the Covid-19 lockdowns, started attending gathered worship and getting involved in the life of the corps. She was welcomed as an adherent by corps officer Captain Tim Cook. – J-MC

NOTTING HILL The corps celebrated as corps officer Lieutenant Ian Barker welcomed Sylvia Nazareth and Vicky Smith as adherents. It was a blessing as everyone recognised their passion for discipleship and their willingness to grow in their faith as members of the fellowship. Corps Sergeant-Major Mandy Sigey is pictured holding the flag. – IB

ADVERTS TADLEY

PROPERTY TRUSTEE

Mulfords Hill RG26 3LJ

VOLUNTARY ROLE The Salvation Army is both a church and a charity. All charities are led by trustees, who are responsible for governance matters, such as financial management. The territorial commander, chief secretary and other senior officers are all trustees; they are joined by some independent persons who are chosen for their expertise and commitment to The Salvation Army. You may be aware that The Salvation Army has a very significant property portfolio, including commercial buildings, residential properties, church buildings, charity shops, Lifehouses and older people’s care homes. It also owns saha – the Salvation Army Housing Association – as a subsidiary.

Therefore, one of the areas the leadership of The Salvation Army seeks independent expertise is in relation to property matters.

A vacancy for an independent trustee with property expertise has recently arisen. This role is not responsible for day-to-day management of the property function, rather it is needed to ensure that SATCo (Salvation Army Trustee Company) has sufficient expertise to provide effective support and challenge to the executive property team. This is a very exciting time to take up such a role, with a number of significant transactions being undertaken, and the opportunity to help The Salvation Army increase its mission and maximise its assets.

Calling all former bandsmen, bandswomen, songsters and soldiers of Tadley Saturday 9, Sunday 10 July

125th CORPS ANNIVERSARY Led by Majors Claire and Jamie Hill We are forming a reunion band and songsters to take part.

Rehearsals on Saturday afternoon 9 July. If you would like to be part of this then please email stewart.madden@ salvationarmy.org.uk or call 0118 9815013

Strictly speaking the trustees are directors of a corporate trustee, SATCo. The board meets about six times a year, usually on a Friday, and comprises five non-executive directors and ten senior Salvation Army officers.

Non-executive directors are expected to be appointed for one term of five years. The role is unpaid but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

The successful candidate will be a Christian with senior-level property experience (ideally committee/board level) and the following demonstrable skills are required: O Knowledge of the property industry sufficient to be able to advise the board on a wide range of property matters O Skills to challenge in a constructive and insightful manner O Independent and balanced judgement O Knowledge of risk management and statutory compliance obligations O Understanding of risks, such as safeguarding, long-term revenue generation and fraud The Salvation Army is keen to promote a culture of inclusion. We welcome applications from people of different backgrounds and experiences.

To apply for this voluntary role, please email your CV by 19 March to elisabeth.elsey@salvationarmy.org.uk.

BOARD VACANCY SAHA

The Salvation Army is blessed with many resources and, in the United Kingdom, we have a housing association – saha (Salvation Army Housing Association). As saha is part of the family, The Salvation Army nominates representatives to saha’s board.

We are currently looking for people who would be willing and able to be The Salvation Army’s nominees. The skills needed are varied, and we know we are unlikely to find them all in one person. They include understanding about housing associations and/or property, delivering and monitoring work with a range of service users, working in a regulated environment, and organisational development, people and/or HR. There are 10 meetings per year.

If you are interested, and think that you may have these or other relevant skills, or would like to discuss this opportunity, please contact Elliot Thomas for an informal conversation or send your CV, together with a covering letter outlining why you would be interested in a role, to company.secretary@ salvationarmy.org.uk. Ideally, we would hear from you soon, and by 18 March.

BLACKBURN Saturday 19 March Blackburn Band

140th ANNIVERSARY REUNION CONCERT 2pm Open rehearsal 4.30pm Refreshments 6pm Music festival Free admission but please let us know so we have music and/or refreshments ready for you ericmillest@aol.com 07876 747398 RECRUITING NOW FOR

ADVERTS

PIONEER COMMUNITY LEADER BURNFOOT, HAWICK

An exciting opportunity has arisen in the Scottish Borders to pioneer a new and vibrant expression of The Salvation Army in Burnfoot, Hawick.

If you have...

O a longing to see people of all ages coming into a relationship with Christ O a passion to see those people grow into his fully devoted followers O a hunger to see those within the local community achieve their God-given potential O a desire to address issues of social injustice ... then this could be the position for you.

Building on excellent relationships in the area the successful applicant will be tasked with developing a culturally relevant worshipping and serving community.

SALARY £24,504 per annum WORKING HOURS 35 hours per week (including weekends) CONTRACT Permanent position DETAILS 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part-time); a contributory pension scheme; season ticket loan; an employee assistance programme CLOSING DATE 27 March INTERVIEW DATE To be confirmed

This role has an occupational requirement that the successful applicant must be a committed and practising Christian.

For further details and to apply please visit: salvationarmy.org.uk/jobs Appointment subject to satisfactory references, proof of right to work in the UK and DBS/PVG disclosure. CVs will not be accepted. Promoting equality in the workplace.

Salvationist 5 March 2022

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE LOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED O RS Cheryl Dixon, Great Yarmouth

O

Lieut-Colonel Mary (Molly) Cook (90 on 18 March)

PROMOTED TO GLORY David Anderson, Salisbury O Kath Fong, Bourne O Ronald Vellem, Belfast Citadel O B/Reservist Ray Todd, Norwich Citadel, on 11 February O Major Brenda Hunt from Cheaney Court care home, Desborough, on 15 February O Kevin Roberts, Southampton Sholing, on 16 February O Gloria Beeston, Basingstoke, on 16 February O Major Neville Andrews from his home in Morriston on 17 February O

MARRIAGES Daniel John Flanagan to Esther Leanne Parsons at Coventry City

by Majors Andrew and Valerie Spivey

O

WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Diamond O Jim and Margaret Addie, Hamilton, (17 March) DEDICATED TO GOD Reuben Allan Grainger, son of Ben Grainger and Louise Milligan, at Kendal by Captain Hilary Borthwick O Cariad Rose Ruck, daughter of Songster CT Annalise and Asst to Dep Safeguarding Lead Calvin Ruck, at Bristol Citadel by Major Christa Beeldman O Aubrey Iris Taylor, daughter of Joe and Songster Ruth Taylor, at Birmingham Citadel by Captain Clare Allman O

RETIRED OFFICERS’ BIRTHDAYS Mrs Major Margaret Wardley (80 on 15 March) O Lieut-Colonel Jean Pearce-Haydon (85 on 16 March) O

BEREAVED O Joy Anderson, Salisbury, of her husband David Anderson O S/Reservist Elizabeth Todd, Norwich Citadel, of her husband B/Reservist Ray Todd, Songster Lindsey Johnson, Norwich Citadel, and BM Garry Todd, Waverley Temple, Australia, of their father O Songster Linda Roberts, Southampton Sholing, of her husband Kevin Roberts, Leah Dorey, Croydon Citadel, of her father O HLS Margaret McNall, Evesham, of her son Stephen

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE O Mozambique, Tue 1 Mar – Mon 7 O Latin America North Territory, Wed 9 – Tue 15 O Sunbury Court (International Appointments Board), Fri 18 – Sun 20 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM O Sunbury Court (leaders orientation), Sun 6 Mar O Sunbury Court (International Appointments Board), Fri 18 – Sun 20 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL O Bexleyheath (opening of new building), Sat 5 Mar – Sun 6 O Confirmation in Officership conference, Thu 10 O Divisional leaders training, Sun 13 – Wed 15* O Churches Together in England Forum, Mon 14 – Wed 16** O Divisional leaders consultation, Thu 16 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL PAUL MAIN) AND COLONEL JENINE MAIN O Peterhead, Sat 5 Mar – Sun 6 O West Scotland divisional retreat, Mon 7 – Wed 9 O Divisional leaders training, Sun 13 – Wed 15 O Divisional leaders consultation, Thu 16 O Henry Wood Hall (An Audience with the ISB), Sat 19 * Commissioner Gillian Cotterill only ** Commissioner Anthony Cotterill only

22

Salvationist 5 March 2022

Michael Beeston, Basingstoke, of his wife Gloria Beeston, June Bligdon, Basingstoke, of her sister O Major Yvonne Andrews, Morriston, of her husband Major Neville Andrews, Lieutenant Clare Kinsey, Bristol South, Kirsty Brearley, Wisbech, Pieter Andrews, Morriston, and Rebecca Andrews of their father O

OFFICIAL GAZETTE RETIREMENTS FROM ACTIVE SERVICE Effective 1 February O Major Anne Myers out of Cardiff Roath in 1978 and last appointment Rugby ANTHONY COTTERILL Commissioner Territorial Commander

TRIBUTES RAY FUNNELL, IPSWICH CITADEL IN his youth, Ray was given the choice between Borstal or regular church attendance, so he went to The Salvation Army in Uckfield, where he met his future wife, Enid. They lived in Sussex and Kent during the early years of their married life but moved to Raydon in Suffolk in 1970.

There, Ray used his musical talents to good effect. He became YP band leader and eventually deputy bandmaster.

When Raydon Corps closed the family moved to Ipswich Citadel. Ray was a member of the corps and divisional bands until poor health meant that he had to retire. Banding was only one part of his service. As part of the Cameo club team, he was responsible for organising games of carpet bowls.

Ray helped so many people in so many ways that he is greatly missed and will long be remembered for his life of Christian influence and service. – DC KATHLEEN HALL, TUNSTALL KATH was born in Newcastle upon Tyne and became a Salvationist and songster at Whitley Bay Corps. She married Brian in 1959 and moved to Ashington and sang in the songsters prior to moving to Glasgow in 1961, where they soldiered at Springburn Corps and she again sang in the songsters.

A move south of the border to Stoke in 1968 led them to Tunstall Corps with children David, Carol and Gordon. They soon became active in corps life. Kath served as a loyal and reliable songster, as well as contributing vocal solos in Sunday worship.

For many years she also helped with the parent-and-toddler group at the corps, providing refreshments with a cheery smile. In recent years illness and frailty took their toll and she moved into a care home. She is very much missed in the corps. – ML CHRISTOPHER WILSON, EXETER TEMPLE BORN in 1963, Chris was the youngest of five children. Brought up at Exeter Temple he progressed through the YP and senior bands, holding the position of YP band leader for a time.

Personal circumstances led to him leaving the Army for a while but, being a brass band enthusiast, he continued to play in contesting bands.

Chris later returned to the Army and Exeter Temple Band. Many members of other bands joined with the corps band to play at his funeral.

He had a strong faith and witnessed to those with whom he worked in Her Majesty’s Prison Service. Many personnel attended the thanksgiving service. It was requested that the cortège pass the prison where 70 prison workers lined the road to pay their respects.

Chris’s promotion to Glory was sudden and unexpected. He is very much missed by his family and Exeter Temple Band.

– MP/JW EDGAR MITCHELL, IPSWICH CITADEL EDGAR lived the early years of his life in India with his officer parents. After returning to England, he went on to teach and became head of Kingsbury High School.

Through the students’ fellowship, Edgar met Audrey. They settled in Harrow, had three daughters, and took on many roles at Harrow Corps. Audrey was promoted

to Glory after a long illness, during which Edgar took early retirement to care for her. He then served as an envoy at Harrow where he had a lasting impact on many lives.

Edgar met Major Joyce Brown through visiting family in Canada and they married in 1993. They moved to Canada, where they settled into life at Burlington Corps. Joyce was promoted to Glory in 2006.

Edgar then moved back to England and Ipswich, near some of his family.

Through his twilight years he was active at the corps, where his faith remained strong. – DC

MGS works professionally providing O

COUNSELLING O THERAPY O MEDIATION

MGS works with relationships and other life experiences

MGS is confidential, experienced and free Contact Major Jorgen Booth and the MGS team Tel 07711 148538 or email mgscounselling@yahoo.com (Based in Reading – MGS works throughout the UK)

ADVERTISING RATES ALL PRICES EXCLUDE VAT LISTINGS: Single line advert – £5 CLASSIFIEDS: Corps events NUMBER OF WEEKS

UP TO 15 WORDS

16 – 25 WORDS

1

£6.40

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Extra words over 35 – 26p per word CLASSIFIEDS: Non-corps events NUMBER OF WEEKS

UP TO 15 WORDS

16 – 25 WORDS

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Extra words over 35 – 30p per word BOXED ADVERTISEMENTS: Single column – 32.5 mm (w) Double column – 69.5 mm (w) SIZE

SINGLE COLUMN 1 ISSUE

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PAGE ADVERTISEMENTS: Quarter page – 127mm (h) X 88 mm (w) Half page – 127 mm (h) X 181 mm (w) Full page – 258 mm (h) X 181 mm (w) SIZE

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ADVERTS CANNOT BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE. ALL ADVERTS CARRIED IN SALVATIONIST ARE SUBJECT TO HOUSE STYLE AND ARE CARRIED AT THE DISCRETION OF THE EDITOR. For further information email advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk

Salvationist 5 March 2022

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‘‘

Crowns and thrones may perish, Kingdoms rise and wane, But the Church of Jesus Constant will remain

All kinds of people attend, join, volunteer with or work for The Salvation Army.

We’ve asked some to tell us about themselves.

This week…

SHEENA McKENNA Lockerbie – charity shop volunteer

(SASB 971)

’’

Apart from English, what languages do you know?

French.

If you could rid the world of one thing, what would it be?

Guns.

How did you first come into contact with the Army?

I went to a Salvation Army café and was made very welcome.

If you could bring back any fashion trend, what would it be?

Babydoll pyjamas.

Did you have a nickname growing up?

Snowball.

What made you want to volunteer for the Army?

I wanted to see if I could help and to meet people.

What was the first record, tape or CD that you ever owned?

I Fall to Pieces, a duet with Patsy Cline and Jim Reeves.

What is the most interesting thing about your role – and the most frustrating?

Meeting people is the most interesting thing. There is nothing frustrating about it!

What is your favourite Bible verse?

Isaiah 41:10: ‘So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.’

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

Seeing my grandkids.

If you could be in a film, which would it be and what character would you play?

The film would be All About Eve, and I would play Bette Davis’s character, Margo Channing.

If you could meet any historical figure, who would you choose?

Winston Churchill. He was a great man.

If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be?

Chocolate.

What is your favourite food?

Fish and chips.

What do you do in your spare time?

Sleep.

If you could invent a gadget, what would it be?

An eggshell peeler.

Apart from the Bible, which book would you want on a desert island?

Lady Chatterley’s Loverr by DH Lawrence.

Which Bible figure would you like to meet and what would you ask them?

I would like to meet Jesus and ask: ‘Why can’t we have peace?’

If you had a theme song that played whenever you walked into a room, what would it be?

‘Blue Eyed Girl’.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘Onward, Christian Soldiers’ (SASB 971).

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

Keep your mouth shut.

Is there something about life or the world that you’ve never understood?

Why we have wars.

What is the most valuable thing you possess?

Memories.

Picture: Andy Wang / Unsplash

What sport would you compete in if you were in the Olympics?

The high jump.

If you had to be handcuffed to one person for a day, who would it be?

Piers Morgan.