Salvationist 7 dec 2013 by The Salvation Army UK and Ireland

SALVATIONIST

Essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army // www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 7 December 2013 // No. 1427 // Price 60p // Also available digitally

Joy to the world

CONTENTS 3.

FROM THE EDITOR

4. PAPERS This week’s quotes from the papers and Picture caption competition results 5. – 8. & 9. NEWS The Philippines // USA Central // Halifax // Stockton // London // Warrington // Exeter Temple // Hadleigh Temple // Bedford Congress Hall // Oldbury // Swindon Citadel // Tunbridge Wells // Knottingley // Clowne // Boston // 6. & 7. NEWS FEATURE Celebrating Christmas 8.

NEW TESTAMENT BIBLE READING CHALLENGE

10. & 11. Environment

FEATURE

12. – 15. FEATURE Retired officers Christmas greetings 16. A beacon of light 17.

BIBLE STUDY

NEW COMMITMENTS

18. & 19.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

19.

LETTERS

20. – 23.

ADVERTS

24.

10.

THROUGH THE WEEK WITH SALVATIONIST

SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS Scripture quotations in Salvationist are from the New International Version (2011), unless otherwise stated 2

Salvationist 7 December 2013

FROM THE EDITOR

GREEN QUESTIONS GOING green is nothing new; for most of us it has either been a conscious choice or has been imposed through legislation. We have been encouraged to reduce waste by getting an energy check on our homes, by sorting domestic rubbish into various bags and bins for recycling, by looking at more energy-efficient ways to travel and, generally, to adopt a greener approach to life. But is it all as simple as it sounds? How do I know that my carefully sorted waste items are going to be recycled and reused in a responsible way? If I decide to change my car for a clean, green, eco model with less road tax to pay, what do I do with the old one that’s not ready for the breakers yard? If I sell it to someone else am I just passing on the problem? If I decide to buy only locally grown, seasonal fruit and vegetables how will this impact workers in poorer countries who may be relying on my custom to feed their families? If I decide to fit solar panels to the roof of my property, will I live long enough to recoup the installation costs? Should developing countries be expected to make the same investment as wealthier nations into going green? Despite the many questions, one thing is clear: we need to care for the environment rather than carelessly wreck it. We should be concerned about the sort of world our children and grandchildren will face in the future if we fail to take responsibility now. I’m glad that MASIC – the territory’s Moral and Social Issues Council – has spent time considering the subject of environment and has come up with a positional statement for information and guidance. Major Brenda Sterling explains about MASIC and the challenges faced in

SALVATIONIST GENERAL INQUIRIES (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Laura Barker – (tel) 020 7367 4893 Kersten Rieder – (tel) 020 7367 4894 Captain Andrew Stone – (tel) 020 7367 4892 DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter – (tel) 020 7367 4895 DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza – (tel) 020 7367 4896 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Archie Bagnall – (tel) 020 7367 4883 ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino – (tel) 020 7367 4881

drawing together the environment positional statement (see pages 10 and 11). We watch with concern the extreme weather conditions that occur around the world – some of which are directly attributed to global warming. Only recently at the UN conference on climate change in Warsaw, Secretary General Ban Ki-moon told delegates that the Philippines disaster caused by Typhoon Haiyan was much more than a wake-up call. He called on the 190 nations represented to take urgent action on climate change. If we believe the earth is the Lord’s, we have to show it by responsible actions. We may feel that our small part is insignificant compared to the size of the problem globally – but God the Creator of the Universe never despises the seemingly weak and insignificant. Eternal God, unchanging Through all the changing years, Whose hands all things created, Who holds the countless stars; Enthroned in heavenly glory, Yet not a God afar; Thou deignest to have dwelling Here where thy people are. (SASB 6)

MAJOR JANE KIMBERLEY

ADVERTISING (tel) 020 7367 4895 (email) advertising@salvationarmy.org.uk DISTRIBUTION Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH (tel) 01933 445451 (fax) 01933 445415 (email) keith.jennings@sp-s.co.uk DIGITAL SALVATIONIST Find Salvationist on Facebook www.facebook.com/salvationistonline

Subscribe to Salvationist via Apple’s App Store, or Google Play Store for Android devices

A registered newspaper published weekly by The Salvation Army (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) on behalf of the General of The Salvation Army and printed by Wyndeham Grange, Southwick. © André Cox, General of The Salvation Army, 2013. The Salvation Army Trust is a registered charity. The charity number in England and Wales is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN (tel) 020 7367 4500 (tel) 0845 634 0101

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL André Cox TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Clive Adams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Martin Hill

Salvationist 7 December 2013

PAPERS

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS ARCHBISHOP DEFENDS POLITICAL INVOLVEMENT

‘The common good of the community and justice are absolutely central to what it means to be a Christian,’ Archbishop Justin Welby claimed in a keynote address to the Church Urban Fund’s ‘Tackling Poverty Together’ conference. When the church spoke out on such issues as money and credit unions or the rising cost of energy it was told to stick to God but the Archbishop pointed out that ‘loving God and loving our neighbour go together like the warp and woof of a piece of fabric.’ In a speech that set out the basis on which the Archbishop seeks to intervene in political debates, he drew a distinction between party politics… and politics in general… He argued that when churches work to secure human flourishing this is politics in the general sense but not party politics. ‘We have responsibilities to speak, even when it might be easier to stay quiet, to point to injustice and to challenge others to join us in righting it,’ he announced. The Church of England Newspaper

‘TALK ABOUT JESUS, NOT THE WEATHER’

The General synod has challenged every local church ‘prayerfully [to] try at least one new way… of seeking to make new disciples of Jesus Christ’ in 2014. The challenge came in a debate

on intentional evangelism moved by the Archbishop of York, Dr Sentamu… The Archbishop recognised that not every Christian was an evangelist, but insisted that ‘every Christian is a witness… Witnesses are empowered by the Holy Spirit simply to share what they have experienced… All people in Britain experience weather, and they talk about it readily and repeatedly. If only disciples of Jesus Christ in England did the same about him; and he is infinitely greater than British weather.’ Church Times

CHILDREN ‘CRUSHED BY PROBLEMS’ Tens of thousands of children across the UK are struggling to cope with daily life because of severe problems their parents are facing, according to Action for Children. Its new survey shows children are trying to cope with problems out of their control, such as parents losing their jobs, illness, family breakdown and domestic abuse. ‘The Red Book 2013: Children under pressure’ claims that nearly two thirds… of respondents are seeing children who need more support with the issues their family is facing. More than half… of the frontline staff questioned at the Methodist-founded childcare charity are seeing more children and young people who need emotional support...................................... Methodist Recorder

PICTURE CAPTION COMPETITION RESULTS Last month we asked Salvationist readers to provide captions to accompany this picture of Lance Corporal Richard Brown (Chalk Farm) of the Irish Guards Band getting a little help from his nephews Daniel, Charly and Jack promoting the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Here are some of our favourites…

‘We wanted to join in Movember – but all we got were bearskins!’ Matthew Busby, Bolton

‘Buzz Buzz, Buzz Buzz, Busby; play a little beat for me.’ Major Alistair Dawson, Norwich

‘Drumming-up a little support.’ Gordon Archer, Belfast

‘This bearskin is really making me grizzly!’ Charles Farley, Harpenden

Salvationist 7 December 2013

NEWS Devastation worse than reported THE PHILIPPINES TERRITORIAL leaders Colonels Wayne and Robyn Maxwell were in Tacloban to support Salvation Army officers and other personnel who have been working tirelessly in the ongoing relief operations. Accompanied by International Secretary for the South Pacific and East Asia Zone Commissioner Gillian Downer, the colonels also brought a message of hope and God’s love to survivors of Typhoon Haiyan. Stories of hope punctuated the scenes of destruction and loss, with Colonel Wayne Maxwell admitting that the devastation caused by the storm and tidal surge was ‘worse than reported by the media’. Latest estimates revealed that four million homes were uninhabitable. But last week, Salvation Army workers met Jostan and his family, whose home was completely destroyed in the terrifying storm. Remarkably, the whole family survived, including Jostan’s two-week-old sister, who was born just before the typhoon made landfall. ‘There have been many, many deaths in our area,’ Jostan’s uncle told emergency worker Damaris Frick. ‘Fortunately, our family survived, but we have lost everything,’ he continued, his eyes betraying the horrors of what they had witnessed in the past fortnight. ‘We are now going to stay with other family members in Manila.’ Jostan and family faced a long wait. Although military evacuations resumed from Tacloban airport, the queues were still long. The Salvation Army continues to provide a supply of clean water and snacks to between 600 and 1,000 people every day. Elsewhere in Tacloban, Salvationists distributed emergency supplies to hundreds of families. Aid is also being distributed in Cebu and Manila,

where evacuees were arriving regularly. The Salvation Army worked with the local government of Pasay in Manila, where a large tent city was set up to shelter evacuees who have no friends or family in the capital city. Extended ministry among the tent-dwellers is expected to happen for several months. Experienced emergency services workers Major Drew Ruthven (Australia Southern) and Matthew Beatty (USA Central) were dispatched to Manila to provide reinforcement and expertise in The Salvation Army’s relief operations. – A. R.

Gems shine at weekend HALIFAX THE Saturday festival of the Gems For Songsters weekend featured more than 80 songsters, including many from nearby corps, who sang pieces from the Gems For Songsters series. A brass ensemble from Bradford Citadel

Success for salvationarmy.org at New Media Awards LONDON THE Salvation Army ’s international website www. salvationarmy.org was recognised for excellence in three categories at this year’s Christian New Media Awards. The site

Salvation Army continues to meet needs of tornado survivors USA CENTRAL AFTER tornados tore through a large part of the American Midwest last month, The Salvation Army responded immediately, offering food, hydration, shelter and spiritual and emotional care through its network of corps community centres. In central Illinois and the metropolitan Chicago area the Army deployed mobile kitchens (canteens) and spiritual care

officers to assist in the recovery. In southern Illinois, The Salvation Army dispatched a canteen to Washington County, where there were three confirmed fatalities. The canteen was redeployed to Brookport, where reports indicated significant tornado damage, with 100 homes affected – 50 of which were destroyed. In Indiana, Kokomo Corps Community Centre sheltered 30 displaced persons and its canteen served the people of the city. Damage in the area was so severe that the city prohibited vehicle traffic. In Lafayette, another canteen was deployed at the request of officials. – J. C.

STOCKTON: Croydon YP Band and Singing Company delighted the congregation with

a quality programme. Items were interspersed with solos, including performances by Kristen Nielsen (violin), Tom Nielsen (cornet) and Alice Gilbert (piano). Ellie Ingram and Kristen played a violin duet. The corps was encouraged by the youngsters’ deportment and personal testimonies. – B. C.

won the award for Accessibility, having been runner-up in the hotly contested People’s Choice category, and the Worldwide Prayer Meeting was shortlisted as a finalist in the Most Creative Use Of Social Media category. Measures taken to ensure that the website is accessible to all include the method of navigation around the site, provision of keyboard alternatives to usually mouse-driven processes, colour

palette selection and text descriptions of picture and video content – particularly in the provision of live text summaries during webcasts. The Christian New Media Awards, staged by Premier Media, received more than 900 entries across categories encompassing best practice in websites, blogs, use of social media and mobile app development. – A. R.

took part, as did a trombone trio from the host corps. Former songsters joined present members to take part in Sunday meetings. Lieut-Colonel Douglas Rayner and Mrs Sheila Rayner led the weekend. – L. H.

Salvationist 7 December 2013

NEWS FEATURE Members of the audience enthusiastically join in carol singing

Festive celebration is filled with challenge and fun LONDON EAGER expectation and seasonal goodwill filled the festively decorated grandeur of the Royal Albert Hall as rousing applause greeted Regent Hall Band, which, with the help of skilled timbrelists from Regent Hall and Staines, launched Celebrating Christmas With The Salvation Army with a performance of ‘Christmas Joy’. In sharing words of welcome, Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Marion Drew prepared the audience for an evening of challenge and fun as she introduced the theme, Joy To The World, as the heart of the Christmas message and acknowledged the presence of Chief of the Staff Commissioner William Roberts and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Nancy Roberts, and territorial leaders Commissioners Clive and Marianne Adams. The colonel prayed that the audience would ‘encounter 6

Salvationist 7 December 2013

The International Staff Songsters proclaim the Christmas message

joy’ and ‘inspire the world’ they live in. Throughout the evening the audience enjoyed various moments of congregational carol singing, accompanied by the band, the International Staff Songsters and organist Michael Clack (Chalk Farm). The beautiful staging and lighting in the Albert Hall underlined the story-telling of the Christmas

message through a breadth of musicianship. The ISS delighted the audience with two contrasting items – chiming ‘Dance And Sing’ and smooth ‘All Bells In Paradise’ – displaying their skill and precision while capturing the Christmas spirit. Regent Hall Band’s ‘On Christmas Night’ intrigued the audience with its mix of reflective and exciting moments. Chef and TV personality

Brian Turner, who spoke fondly of his long connection with The Salvation Army, was welcomed to the stage as the first of two guest readers for the evening. His readings of the Christmas story from Luke’s Gospel were connected by treble soloist Chorister Fergus Brown singing ‘The Hope Of All Mankind’. His voice travelled above the sound of the accompanying organ, staff songsters and band, resulting in a majestic mesh of voices harmoniously filling the hall, which was met with rousing applause. Later, the band played ‘I Wonder As I Wander’ while a group from Regent Hall beautifully illustrated the band’s message through dance. In complete contrast, LieutColonel Drew welcomed Swiss Salvation Army pop group Takasa to the stage. The group sang their 2013 Eurovision entry ‘You And Me’, as well as a new item ‘Nothing Like Your Love’. In a special commemorative moment, comparison was drawn with the Joystrings, who, as the colonel explained, began their journey of representing Christianity in

places least expected precisely 50 years earlier; she acknowledged the presence of former members Lieut-Colonels Peter and Sylvia Dalziel. The staff songsters expressed the evening’s theme through ‘Let Heaven And Nature Sing’. Actress and enthusiastic supporter of The Salvation Army, Hannah Gordon sensitively presented the third and final Bible reading. The band showcased its versatility and choreographic ability through ‘Three King Swing’, featuring the trombone section and cornetist Paul Sharman. The ISS immediately followed this with the slow blues song ‘Good Enough For Him’. West End singer and actor Lee Mead, best known for his role as Joseph, moved members of the audience with his stunning performance of ‘Bring Him Home’. He shared his affection for the Army, engendered through his grandmother, and commented: ‘I am honoured to sing here tonight.’ Lee’s multifaceted voice was highlighted in his playful rendition of ‘Blue Christmas’ accompanied by the band. Territorial Commander Commissioner Clive Adams brought a message that was poignant and simple. In telling the story of an orphaned boy who had depicted himself in the manger with the Christ-child, the TC pointed out that the essence of the Christmas story is that Christ came into a world of loneliness and sin and

Regent Hall Band in full flow

that ‘Jesus invites us to be embraced by love and grace into a personal relationship with him’. The message was supported by the staff songsters’ ‘When Love Was Born’, depicted through

dance by triplets Ellison, Catrise and Trearna Hart. As the congregation sang ‘Silent Night’ during the final moments of the evening, the siblings were joined by children from Regent Hall

dressed as angels, shepherds and kings to complete the nativity scene. The audience fervently sang ‘O Come, All Ye Faithful’ to conclude an evening proclaiming Joy To The World. – K. R.

Angels gather to complete the

Lee Mead charms the

nativity scene

audience

Ellison, Catriset and Trearna dance tot The territorial leaders with Lieut-Colonel Marion Drew and some of the participants

‘When Love Was Born’t

Salvationist 7 December 2013

NEWS

WEEK 41 Monday 9 December Titus 1 – Paul writes to Titus with instructions to maintain sound doctrinal teaching O vv6–9: regardless of whether you consider yourself an ‘elder’ or not – could this passage describe you? O v11: in what way do you think Titus was expected to ‘silence’ the false teachers?

Scarecrows at Harvest WARRINGTON A DOZEN scarecrows, including one made at the James Lee House Lifehouse and another by the corps day care staff, featured in the produce display for the Harvest Festival weekend. One hundred and twenty people attended the annual barn

dance and the ecumenical Harvest praise meeting featured a number of contributions including the first cornet solo by six-year-old Harry Peacock, who has been a learner for just a few weeks. More than £1,000 was raised from the weekend events to support the work of two former members who now serve in the Pakistan Territory and Bangladesh Command. – A. C.

Tuesday 10 December Titus 2 – Further instructions on teaching O Is this chapter applicable to all Christians, or just for teachers like

Titus? O vv9 and 10: can we legitimately substitute the words master and slave with employer and employee? Wednesday 11 December Titus 3 – We are saved by faith, but should devote ourselves to doing good O Is it fair to say that holiness should be a by-product of salvation, or is it a pre-condition for salvation, or neither? O v10: does this sound harsh, or sensible? Thursday 12 December Philemon 1 – Paul pleads with Philemon to take back and forgive Onesimus O vv10 and 11: Paul is obviously using a play on words here – Onesimus means ‘useful’. Paul describes him as once useless and now useful to Philemon. What might this teach us about the rest of his letters? Can there be subtleties that are missing? Friday 13 December Hebrews 1 – The superiority and divinity of Jesus Christ O v3: Jesus is the ‘exact representation of his [God’s] being’ – what do you think this means? O This first chapter of Hebrews seems to emphasise the superiority of Jesus Christ to prophets and angels. Why do you think the author may have wanted to do this? O In what way is the style of these first paragraphs different from the letters we know Paul wrote?

Former Joystrings colleagues Thelma Beecham and Ruth Howesl join Lieut-Colonels Peter and Sylvia Dalziel on their book tour stopl at Hadleigh Templel 8

Salvationist 7 December 2013

Harvest Festival benefits Army in Kenya EXETER TEMPLE HARVEST celebrations began with Raise The Roof, a cabaret evening in support of projects in Kenya East Territory. The evening featured contemporary music group Response, who invited corps members to join them in a programme of different music styles and arrangements of old Army choruses. More than £700 was raised. On Sunday, Harvest artwork prepared by the rainbows and Little Treasures parent-and-toddler group greeted the congregation. Gifts of produce were shared between the food bank and the Sunday evening community lunch for those in need. – A. C.

NEWS Corps is reminded of God’s faithfulness TUNBRIDGE WELLS

At Oldbury, lifelong Salvationist and active corps member Edna West celebrates her 100th birthday; having witnessed much cultural and social change, Edna testifies to God’s faithfulness

Reunion weekend includes great adventure BEDFORD CONGRESS HALL FORMER officers, soldiers and friends joined with present members to celebrate the 125th corps anniversary weekend. At the Saturday festival a capacity congregation heard the band play ‘Bedford 125’, written especially for the occasion by Iain Rayner. Leader of the weekend, Commissioner Keith Banks, reminded those present they had a responsibility to serve others in the future. The evening concluded with Staff Songsters Margaret Launn, Hazel Launn and Keith Sandford, all soldiers at the corps, singing ‘The Lord Bless You And Keep You’. In the Sunday morning meeting Bandsman Sid Williams transferred to the band reserve after 63 years’ service. An open-air meeting and march of witness preceded the evening meeting when corps officer Major Cliff Allchin interviewed Commissioner Banks about his life and service including his time in Papua New

Guinea and Japan. The commissioner also gave an illustrated presentation entitled ‘The Great Adventure’ before the meeting concluded with the singing of the chorus of ‘How Great Thou Art’ in Papua New Guinea Pidgin English. – T. A.

SWINDON CITADEL: Major Graham Mizon (Regent Hall) led a Saturday presentation entitled Walk Through The Old Testament. Salvationists and visitors from other churches appreciated his knowledgeable and enthusiastic approach. On Sunday, the major led the meeting, bringing encouragement and blessing. – K. S.

MAJOR Martin Hill (THQ) led 134th corps anniversary meetings. In the morning, he shared thoughts around the holiness of God and assured the congregation that God is faithful in turmoil if people are faithful to him. During the YP spot, nine volunteers received a fruit representing the fruit of the Spirit. The theme continued in the evening meeting with the band and songsters contributing items including ‘Bethany’ and ‘Jesus Is All I Need’. The day concluded with a spirit of warmth and reverence and a seeker at the mercy seat. – S. S. KNOTTINGLEY: Family Matters Messy Church attracted 44 children and parents for a morning of autumn-themed fun. Activities included games, songs, crafts and a meal of hot dogs and cookies. – M. T.

Fellowship bands unite for concert CLOWNE DIVISIONAL fellowship bands from East Midlands and Yorkshire presented a joint festival after a day of rehearsal and fellowship. Compèred by Major Ron Smith (DHQ), the evening featured united and individual items by the bands, including ‘Soli Deo Gloria’, ‘Wonderful Healer’ and ‘Nicaea’, flugelhorn and xylophone soloists and a double cornet trio. – B. C.

At Boston, 21 children perform the mini-musical ‘Giant Slayer’ to a capacity congregation of family, friends and Salvationists after spending half-term holiday rehearsing the script and songs Salvationist 7 December 2013

ENVIRONMENT FEATURE

SHOULD THE ARMY MAKE A DISTINCTIVE CONTRIBUTION TO THE MORAL AND ETHICAL DEBATE? asks Major Brenda Sterling GENERAL John Gowans wrote: ‘In a world of shifting values, there are standards that remain’ (SASB 324). What are these shifting values? What should The Salvation Army be speaking out about? And how should Salvationists be living their lives? The Moral and Social Issues Council (MASIC) of the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland exists to discuss and review such questions. It acts in an advisory capacity to territorial leadership and may initiate or respond to issues of the day. MASIC can also be an important resource for Salvationists and for the wider public who want to know The Salvation Army’s official viewpoint; it can be contacted by email (masic@salvationarmy.org.uk). Positional statements prepared by MASIC indicate the consensus and corporate view of the Army, providing us with clear guidelines and informed thinking. These statements, carefully considered, concisely set out gospel values and principles on which The Salvation Army takes its stand and by which Salvationists are encouraged to live. Many drafts are produced and much discussion takes place before a statement is agreed and approved – first by territorial leadership, then by the International Moral and Social Issues Council (IMASIC) and, ultimately, by the General. Producing a positional statement can be a long and painstaking process. Presently, MASIC in the United Kingdom is engaged in work on alcohol, older people, human trafficking, the family and the relationship of The Salvation Army to the State. Draft positional statements awaiting approval or revision include ethnic and cultural diversity, Sabbath-keeping, pornography, euthanasia and assisted suicide. Visit the website www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/masic where you will find the positional statements on gambling, human genetic engineering, human sexuality, marriage, poverty, work and, now, the most recent statement on the environment. Like all positional statements, the one on the environment is founded on moral and biblically based convictions. In its opening paragraph, it echoes the words of Salvation Army Article of Faith number two. This acknowledges God as Creator, Preserver and Governor of all things. It is important to note how much God values his creation. He is pleased with all he has made. Responsibility and accountability are crucial when we begin to think about our response to the rest of God’s creation. 10

Salvationist 7 December 2013

What a privilege to be made in God’s image and to be called to work alongside God as coworkers in caring for his creation! Careful examination of biblical texts shows that there is a duty to use wisely the earth’s resources, which he has entrusted to us for future generations. This is so far removed from exploiting and abusing the earth’s resources – yet, we are painfully aware humanity’s response to God’s creation has not always been in line with God’s purposes. The environment statement briefly highlights causes and consequences of this behaviour. Does this sound rather bleak and negative? We are reminded that God’s loving purpose for his entire creation never ends. The mission of Jesus is to bring healing, wholeness and justice to a broken world and to broken lives. In addition, Christians look forward with hope and expectation to the renewal of the earth as promised in Scripture. In its closing paragraphs, the environment positional statement turns our attention specifically to The Salvation Army and its motivation and role in implementing environmental policies and practices. So much for corporate responsibility. On an individual basis, what can we do? There are personal and practical challenges for everyone as we try to care for and protect our environment. We can begin by taking some small but significant steps. But perhaps, even before this, we may need to open our minds or change our thinking about our stewardship of the earth’s resources. I encourage you take the time to do several things – O Read the positional statement prayerfully and thoughtfully O Look at and think about the Bible references in the footnotes O Discuss with your family or friends any small changes you might make to simplify your lifestyle O Buy fairly traded goods when you can O Minimise waste, reduce consumption and recycle. How about an in-depth ‘green audit’ of your church or Lifehouse? Eco-congregation has some great ideas in the free resource section found at http://ew.ecocongregation.org/ resources/module1#list-item-6 Just imagine the difference we all could make!

MAJOR STERLING IS A MEMBER OF MASIC

THE Salvation Army’s concern for the environment arises from moral and biblical convictions. We acknowledge God as Creator, Preserver and Governor of the Universe. All creation belongs to him (1) and he is pleased with all he has made (2). He is Father, Son and Holy Spirit, relational in his triune nature. His purpose is that every part of creation, including human beings, should exist in harmonious relationship with him as Creator and with every other part of creation. In fulfilling this purpose, creation rightly brings praise and glory to God (3) and his handiwork inspires wonder and humility (4). As human beings uniquely made in the image of God, we are called to be co-workers with him in his creative and sustaining activity (5). In caring for his creation we recognise that ultimately we are responsible and accountable to God. We should use wisely the earth’s resources he has entrusted to us for future generations. God’s command to ‘work’ the earth and ‘take care of it’ implies service and watchful care on our part (6). The biblical command to humanity to ‘subdue’ and ‘rule over’ every living thing should not be misinterpreted as justifying abuse of the earth’s resources (7). Individually and collectively, humanity’s response to God’s creative purpose is mixed – sometimes productive and caring but sometimes unrestrained, ignorant and sinful. Affluence provides opportunities for positive choices that sustain and protect the environment. Negative

choices of wastefulness, unrestrained consumerism or financial systems that put profit before the needs of people can all contribute to environmental damage. This is evident in the pollution and degrading of the environment and the exploitation of people and resources. Consequences can fall disproportionately and unjustly on poorer nations whose poverty may be both the cause and a result of environmental damage. God’s loving purpose for his entire creation never ends. It is the mission of Jesus to bring healing, wholeness and reconciliation to broken lives and a broken world (8). The Bible looks forward to the renewal of the earth through the liberating energy of the Holy Spirit at work in people and in creation (9). The Salvation Army is compelled by love for God and for humanity and is concerned about the implications of environmental damage on future generations as well as the present. It speaks out for social justice and for poor and oppressed people; also, for responsible management of the earth’s resources which sustains the environment while protecting and improving the quality of human life. As an organisation it has in place a policy of good environmental practice (10). Individually, everyone, is encouraged to take small but far-reaching steps which any individual can take to help care for, protect and repair the environment; this begins with changed priorities and a simpler lifestyle. Practical actions may include reducing consumption, use of environmentally friendly products, waste reduction and recycling, energy conservation, ethical purchasing and ethical investment. In these and other environmentally sustainable ways, we can show our love for God and for his creation.

Footnotes 1. ‘The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it on the seas and established it on the waters’ (Psalm 24:1 and 2). 2. ‘God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning – the sixth day’ (Genesis 1:31). 3. ‘The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them’ (Psalm 19:1–3). 4. ‘When I consider your

man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it’ (Genesis 2:15). 7. ‘God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground” (Genesis 1:28). 8. ‘For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross’ (Colossians 1:19 and 20).

ENVIRONMENT POSITIONAL STATEMENT

heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?’ (Psalm 8:3 and 4). 5. ‘Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them’ (Genesis 1:26 and 27). 6. ‘The Lord God took the

9. ‘The creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God’ (Romans 8:19–21). 10. The Salvation Army United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland Environmental Policy (29 June 2010). Approved by the Chief of the Staff in the absence of the General: July 2013

Salvationist 7 December 2013

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS Major George Hook sends Christmas blessings WR DOO KLV RIÀFHU DQG Salvation Army friends. God bless you all.

To friends and comrades far and near. Every good wish for Christmas and New Year. Major and Mrs Bernard and Hilda Ball

Lieut-Colonel Hugh Nimmo and carer Miss Marlene Allan send Christmas greetings and good wishes to all their friends.

May the celebration of Jesus’ birth enrich the hearts and homes of our esteemed friends everywhere. Affectionately, Jane and Hubert Boardman

A very happy and blessed Christmas to all our friends in Christ Jesus. From Lieut-Colonels Fred and Eva Hoyle

Mrs Colonel Rita Baird sends Christmas greetings to all friends and colleagues.

0D\ WKH VSLULW RI &KULVWPDV ÀOO WKH lives of all my family and friends. Seasonal greetings. Major Billy Richmond

Dodie and Lawrence Brevitt wish friends all the blessings this season holds. We will be in South Africa this Christmas.

May the celebration of WKH ELUWK RI -HVXV ÀOO your heart with love and joy. Warm greetings. Commissioner Keith Banks 12

Salvationist 7 December 2013

Major Mrs Phyllis Spicer wishes her friends a happy and peaceful Christmas and every blessing for the New Year.

Major Ray Hobbins and Eileen pray that the joy of the Saviour’s love may be known in your hearts. Pobbendith.

To my friends everywhere: May the light of Christ illuminate your lives this Christmas and in the coming year. Mrs Major Rene Davey

Majors Joan and Stephen Gowler wish all their friends a very blessed and peaceful Christmas and New Year.

Greetings from Arthur and Mrs Brown WR RIĂ&#x20AC;FHUV RI WKH 6RXO :LQQHUV 6HVVLRQ 'XH WR LOO KHDOWK ZH cannot manage cards now.

Major H John White sends Christmas greetings to all his friends. A stroke in March prevents the sending of cards.

Aux-Captain Ken Beard sends greetings and every good wish for Christmas and the New Year.

Major Elsie and Mr Dave Pyman from Bath Citadel wish you a peaceful Christmas and a God-enriched New Year.

Christmas greetings to all my friends and many blessings for the New Year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with love from Major Yvonne Brickwood

Major William Laird sends Christmas greetings to all his friends and colleagues and prays Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blessing upon you during 2014.

Doug and Eileen Shankster wish all our friends peace and joy at Christmas and Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blessing in the new year.

O come, all ye faithful, joyful DQG WULXPSKDQW :LVKLQJ \RX peace and joy at Christmas. Christian love. Bunty. Major Helen Richardson

Jean Gauntlett wishes her friends Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blessings of peace and joy this Christmas and in the New Year.

Major Ernest Cook wishes all his friends a peaceful and blessed Christmas.

Major and Mrs Cyril Chadwick send greetings to all their friends during the Christmas season and wish them all a Happy New Year.

Major Joan Corner sends warm Christmas and New Year greetings to all her friends. God bless you each one. Immanuel.

As we sit in the sun on holiday in Australia we send warm Christmas greetings to all our friends. Majors Tom and Jean Crozier

:LVKLQJ SHDFH MR\ DQG Christmas blessings to her many friends, and Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s richest blessing in the New Year. Major Ann Andrews

Christmas greetings to friends in England and overseas. Jesus, the name high over all, In Hell or earth or sky. Mrs Colonel Jean Kiff Salvationist 7 December 2013

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS continued Majors Jim and Alma Brown send seasonal greetings to all their friends and colleagues and may the blessing of Christmas be with you.

Blessed by God’s immeasurable grace, I pray that his love and peace will surround you now and in 2014. Commissioner Hilda Cox

2IÀFHU IULHQGV DQG Salvationists, greetings and prayers that God’s blessing and presence will be with you and your loved ones. Major Helen Turner

‘He came right down to me.’ May the truth of these words continue to bless you all this Christmastide. Majors Douglas and Brenda Sparkes

Major and Mrs Ted and Dorothy Shields send love and warmest Christian greetings to all our friends during this holy season.

Len and Faith Perry send Christmas greetings to all their friends and pray God’s blessing for the New Year.

Majors Margaret and Maurice Porter send Christmas greetings to all their friends and colleagues and pray God’s blessing upon you during 2014.

Wishing a Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year to friends and colleagues. God bless you. Major Doreen Ingram and Brigadier Doreen York

We remember you, our friends this Christmas. May God’s peace and joy be yours. Ken and Beryl Morey

‘Teach us to resemble thee In thy sweet humility,’ says Brigadier Freda Eveleigh in sending Christmas greetings to her many friends. 14

Salvationist 7 December 2013

Majors Doreen and John Cottell send their sincere Christmas greetings to their many friends. May God richly bless you all.

Dot Havercroft sends greetings to friends and colleagues – may God’s blessings be yours this Christmas and in the year ahead.

Every blessing this Christmas and in the New Year. Brigadier Eva Richardson, QRZ UHVLGLQJ DW )HUU\ÀHOG House, Edinburgh.

Brigadier Mary Scott, (Kirkcaldy), wishes all her friends a very happy Christmas and God’s richest blessing throughout 2014.

With best wishes WR HYHU\RQH IRU D KRO\ DQG EOHVVHG Christmas, and a KDSS\ 1HZ <HDUÂˇ Major Daphne Methven

To comrades and friends from Major Olive Stevens â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;God gave his greatest gift to us on that Ă&#x20AC;UVW &KULVWPDV GD\ 0D\ WKH ZRQGHU RI LW DOZD\V JXLGH DQG OLJKW \RXU ZD\ Âˇ

Greetings to all treasured IULHQGV HYHU\ZKHUH 0D\ -HVXVÂˇ ORYH SHDFH DQG MR\ Ă RRG \RXU hearts anew this Christmas. Eileen Spriggs

Major Christine Marriott SUD\V *RGÂˇV EOHVVLQJ RQ FROOHDJXHV comrades and friends at this special WLPH RI \HDU DQG IRU IXWXUH GD\V

Mrs Lieut-Colonel Eileen Thomas sends warmest Christmas greetings to all her friends and comrades at this special time.

Mrs Lieut-Colonel May Richardson ZLVKHV KHU PDQ\ IULHQGV D +DSS\ &KULVWPDV DQG SHDFHIXO 1HZ <HDU

Major Dorothy Caddy sends Christmas greetings and WKDQNV IRU SUD\HUIXO VXSSRUW WKURXJKRXW WKH SDVW \HDU 3UDLVH *RG IRU DQVZHUHG SUD\HUV

Major Audrey Whitehead ZLVKHV KHU PDQ\ IULHQGV JUHHWLQJV IRU WKH &KULVWPDV VHDVRQ DQG D *RG EOHVVHG +DSS\ 1HZ <HDU

Betty and Alan Bennett ZLVK DOO MR\ LQ -HVXV WR RXU dear friends. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;God has made KLV KRPH ZLWK XV Âˇ

Majors Bram and Loraine Holland, Littleport Corps, wish all our friends a blessed Christmas and D 3URVSHURXV 1HZ <HDU LQ

0D\ WKH *RG RI DOO KRSH Ă&#x20AC;OO \RX ZLWK KLV MR\ DQG peace this Christmas and throughout 2014. Major Josephine Davies

Majors Mildred and Percival Renouf send greetings to all our friends, old and new. *RG EOHVV \RX DW WKLV VHDVRQ

Sending warm Christmas greetings DQG D SUD\HU WKDW the peace of his ORYH EH \RXUV this Christmas. Major Ruth Curtis

Major William Harding would like to wish all IULHQGV D +DSS\ &KULVWPDV DQG *RGÂˇV ULFKHVW EOHVVLQJV IRU WKH 1HZ <HDU

Major and Mrs Ernest Ablett wish their friends and colleagues from WKURXJK WKH \HDUV D YHU\ *RG EOHVVHG &KULVWPDV DQG D +DSS\ 1HZ <HDU Salvationist 7 December 2013

BIBLE STUDY

A beacon of light

Major Philippa Smale presents the second in an Advent series by UK officers serving overseas

ELCOME to Cologne and to the Christmas markets – all seven of them! Each offers an incredible variety of food, arts, crafts and entertainment in this beautiful city, which dates back to the first century AD when it was a Roman colony. What seems like millions of people visit the markets every year. The streets are always packed, and at every third step you hear another language being spoken. Do they know it’s Advent? If they listen to the German radio stations, they do. The four Sundays before Christmas are known as ‘Erster, Zweiter, Dritter and Vierter Advent’ – ‘1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Advent’ – and this is how they are referred to on the radio, the TV and in the newspapers. It is obviously a very special time in the Cologne calendar – and it is a marked recognition of Christianity in a secular society. Standing in the evening in the Christmas market near Cologne Cathedral, looking up at that amazing Gothic edifice with its lights blazing and bells ringing, it’s hard to believe that many people don’t seem to be aware that Advent is a time of preparation for the coming of Christ to this world as a baby. The prophet Isaiah wrote some 700 years before Jesus’ birth: ‘For to us a child is born, to us a son is given’ (9:6). Isaiah declared: ‘The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned’ (9:2). 16

Salvationist 7 December 2013

How many of the people standing in front of Cologne Cathedral will have experienced the dawning of that light for themselves? Isaiah found himself having to prophesy a time of ‘distress and darkness and fearful gloom’ when the people would be ‘thrust into utter darkness’ (8:22). Because King Ahaz did not trust the Lord to protect his land he laid himself and his people open to attack from the Assyrians, the very people he had paid to protect Judah from invasion from the coalition forces

‘‘

IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE THAT MANY PEOPLE DON’T SEEM TO BE AWARE THAT ADVENT IS A TIME OF PREPARATION FOR THE COMING OF CHRIST TO THIS WORLD AS A BABY

’’

of Israel and Aram. That was a problem his son, Hezekiah, inherited. Invasion and exile were continuing threats for God’s people. However, after all the doom and gloom, Isaiah gave this wonderful prophecy: ‘In the past he humbled the

land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honour Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan – The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned’ (9:1 and 2). The darkness would be dispelled by an incredibly bright light! Assyria had already overrun the land of Zebulun and Naphtali – in the area of Galilee, north and west of the River Jordan – and carried the people off into exile. They imported Gentiles to the area – which resulted in Isaiah calling it ‘Galilee of the nations’. But this land was to see a great honour. According to Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus left Nazareth and ‘went and lived in Capernaum, which was by the lake in the area of Zebulun and Naphtali – to fulfil what was said through the prophet Isaiah’ (4:13 and 14). Jesus said of himself: ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life’ (John 8:12). The darkness can be powerful and destructive, but as John also says in his Gospel: ‘The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it’ (1:5). Cologne Cathedral stands as a beacon of light in the city. Throughout the year it is visited by thousands of people every day. It is a sign that the light is still shining, and can never be extinguished by the darkness. However, the most powerful witness to the light is when it shines in the lives of Jesus’ followers. DISCUSSION POINTS O What places would you describe as beacons of light in a dark world? O Do you know any people who could be described like that? What makes them special?

MAJOR SMALE IS PROJECTS OFFICER, GERMANY AND LITHUANIA TERRITORY WITH POLAND REGION

NEW COMMITMENTS

2. 1.

6. 1. HELEN KAYANI Adherent member SHEFFIELD CITADEL HELEN was welcomed as an adherent member. She got in touch with the Army through Expressions and because of her Anglican roots, wanted her daughter to grow up knowing God. Helen testified that the welcome she received led her to this commitment. – G. B. 2. SOPHIE JOHNSON, TYFFANI PARROTT, BETHANY MITCHELL Soldiers BRISTOL EASTON IN her testimony, Sophie affirmed she felt God was leading her to become a soldier. Tyffani went to the Army through the brownies before introducing her grandparents to the corps; they played a part in her decision to commit her life to God. Bethany recognised the strong influence her family has had on her life and the example they have provided. The three young people were enrolled by corps officer Major John McCombe. – H. B. 3. DANIELLE DODD Adherent member GRIMSBY IN her testimony, Danielle spoke about how her life was going in the wrong direction. At her lowest point she cried out to God and was aware of a change. After attending a corps event, Danielle took her children to the parent-and-toddler group. She then went to Sunday worship and realised that God was calling her to be a follower of Christ. – G. N.

4. & 5. BENJAMIN CHAUNDY, SKYE JONES Junior soldiers ESTON CORPS officer Captain Gary Chaundy enrolled his son Benjamin and Skye as junior soldiers. Benjamin said his favourite part of the Bible was the story of David and Goliath as it reminded him that small people are important. Giving her testimony, Skye included her favourite song ‘You Are Shaped For Serving God’. – G. C. 6. SOPHIE BLACK Soldier AIRDRIE THE congregation warmly received Sophie into the fellowship as a soldier. During the enrolment ceremony, Chris Shanks played a euphonium solo ‘Silent Prayer’ and Olwyn Mathie and Bobby Weir sang ‘I’m In His Hands’ – a song that has spoken to Sophie over the years. – T. M. 7. TERRY THOMAS Soldier CONSETT TERRY, who had been an officer in the USA many years ago, turned his back on God and did not go to a place of worship. Having returned to the UK, Terry felt compelled to attend the corps carol service. God spoke to him and he accepted an invitation to attend the next Sunday. The welcome he received encouraged Terry to once again hand his life over to God. – H. K. Salvationist 7 December 2013

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND LETTERS ARMY PEOPLE TRANSFERRED Effective 1 January 2014 for a period of six months: O Lieut-Colonels William and Gillian Heeley from UKT to Eastern Europe, to be Divisional Commander and Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries, Ukraine LOCAL OFFICER APPOINTED Envoy John Mahy, Guernsey (L’Islet, St Peter Port and St Sampson’s)

O Divisional

MARRIAGES Masterton to Catherine Little at St Helier by Lieutenants Melanie and Stephen Scoulding O Geoffrey Allen to Jennifer Flaherty at Winton by Major Paul Johnson O Jonathan

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Diamond: O Rtd CSM/Bandsman Alfred and Lily Sage, Hastings Temple (19 December) Golden: O Brian and Betty Stevenson, Bedworth DEDICATED TO GOD son of Sean Wells and Jade Felton, at Bedworth by Divisional Envoy John Vale O Ava Grace, daughter of Graham and Natasha Spratt; William Andrew, son of Lee and Angela Horton, both at Dunstable by Major Carol Evans O Naomi Amira Osahenmase Esosa, daughter of Faith Ebengho, at Woodhouse by Captain Steve Noble O Noah and Olivia, children of Andrew and Laura Hall, at Letchworth by Major Maria Sampson O Eden Elsie Charlotte, daughter of Gareth and Joanne Wylie; Ben John, son of Charlie and Kar-Lea Brown, both at Lurgan by Captain David Williamson O Richard,

BEREAVED O Hilda Flemming, Boscombe, of her daughter Hilary O Sue Yorke and Elaine Marshall, both Plymouth Congress Hall, of their mother Margaret Yorke O CYS Jacqui Clayden, Letchworth, of her brother 18

Salvationist 7 December 2013

RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: O Mrs Captain Dorothy Adams (80 on 11 December) PROMOTED TO GLORY Yelland, Merthyr Tydfil

O Gertrude O Major

Audrey Wilson from Chelmsford on 25 November

O Erik

Silfverberg OF from Denmark on 21 November Born in 1934 in Copenhagen, Denmark, at the age of 11 Erik Silfverberg became a junior musician at Gartnergade Corps where his parents were local officers. He grew up together with Anne-Lise, whom he married in 1960. Together they developed a unique partnership: Anne-Lise wrote the lyrics for around 200 songs and Erik composed the melodies. Furthermore, Erik has published around 150 compositions or arrangements for brass bands. His music is known and played around the world. Erik was promoted to Glory surrounded by musicians from Valby Corps, where he played first trombone having previously served as bandmaster. When just 16 years old Erik became YP band leader and more than 30 years later took over the baton for the senior band, which he conducted for more than 20 years. In addition to his faithful work in the corps, Erik Silfverberg was National Music Secretary for Denmark Territory several times, a role he performed free of charge in addition to his job as a civil engineer and director of studies at the Graphic Arts Institute in Copenhagen. Erik and Anne-Lise had an enormous musical and spiritual

influence on the lives of children and young people throughout the territory at annual music camps. For more than 25 years they spent part of their holidays at the music camps for which they wrote new songs and music. They also wrote and composed the musical Hej Katrine! (Hi Catherine!), performed by young people from all over Denmark for the territorial centenary in 1987. Erik used his gifts with great humility. He was friendly and well-liked for his involvement and ministry, which comprised much more than his musical compositions. Many people have benefited from his caring nature and corps officers have appreciated his support. As a local officer he always set a good example. In 2004 he received the Army’s award for exceptional service at The Salvation Army’s congress. He was admitted to the Order of the Founder, together with Anne-Lise, on 10 March 2013 for ‘lifelong, faithful and unselfish service’.

ON THE AIR O BBC

Radio Scotland 92–95 FM (and online at bbc.co.uk/scotland): John and Heather Coutts have recorded Advent services for New Every Morning (6.30 am) on the theme of Light A Candle For Christmas. The programmes will be broadcast each Sunday during Advent. O BBC local transmitting of Celebrating Christmas With The Salvation Army: BBC Jersey 6 pm, 24 December; BBC Cambridge 1 pm, 25 December; BBC Radio Cumbria 1 pm, 25 December; BBC Coventry and Warwickshire 5 pm, 25 December; BBC Tees 6 pm, 25 December and BBC Lancashire 7 am, 26 December.

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL ANDRÉ COX AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: O Italy and Greece, Sat 7 Dec - Mon 9 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER WILLIAM ROBERTS) AND COMMISSIONER NANCY ROBERTS: O Liberia (25th anniversary celebrations), Th 5 Dec - Tu 10 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER CLIVE ADAMS) AND COMMISSIONER MARIANNE ADAMS: O Ireland, Fri 6 - Mon 9 Dec O William Booth College (spiritual day), Th 12 O South and Mid Wales, Sat Sun 15 O Visits to Central London social services centres, Wed 18 O THQ (carol service), Th 19 O Hadleigh Employment Training Centre (carol service), Mon 23 O East Scotland, Sat Sun 5 Jan 2014 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: O Reading Area Retired Officers Fellowship, Th 12 Dec O St Helier, Sat Sun 15 COMMISSIONER GILLIAN DOWNER: O Taiwan, Th 28 Nov - Sun 8 Dec COMMISSIONERS TORBEN AND DEISE ELIASEN: O USA Eastern, Sat 7 Dec - Fri 13 COMMISSIONERS LALZAMLOVA AND NEMKHANCHING: Middle East Region, Th 5 Dec - Sun 8

TRIBUTES SONGSTER RESERVIST MRS MARGARET YORKE, PLYMOUTH CONGRESS HALL MARGARET was born in Plymouth in 1935 and attended the Army from a very young age. She married Derek in 1959 and had two daughters, Sue and Elaine. Margaret was a songster reservist, and – until poor health and failing eyesight prevented further service – sang with the home league singers. She remained strong in her faith until the very end, and is very much missed by family and friends. – S. Y.

CATHERINE PATERSON, EDINBURGH CITY CATHIE was a weekly fixture outside a wellknown department store on Princes Street for many years as she sold The War Cry – always willing to share a smile, her faith, a kind word, a prayer or even directions!

JOYSTRINGS BOOK IS A MUST-READ I HAVE just finished reading The Joystrings and was thrilled and overwhelmed by the content. It is a most exciting and remarkable account of what took place all those years ago, and has to be a major segment of Salvation Army history of that period. While stationed at Kingston-onThames with the Salvation Army Assurance Society, I played in the corps band with Wycliffe Noble and, because of that connection, I thought I knew everything about the Joystrings. In fact, the book tells me I knew very little of what the Joystrings were doing or where they went. More importantly, I don’t recall hearing about the many hundreds of people who came to faith as a result of their tremendous endeavours. Lieut-Colonel Sylvia Dalziel has

Her first contact with the Army came through her alcoholic brother, who found a faith in Jesus and turned his life around at The Pleasance hostel. Cathie wanted to know that same life-changing faith, so began attending meetings and became a soldier. She had to give up selling her papers after a fall about three years ago, but many people still ask after her. Cathie is sorely missed by those who knew her, especially former customers. – C. K.

MRS JOAN DAVIES, POOLE JOAN was born in a workhouse in Bristol in 1920 and went into service aged 14 as a between maid. During the Second World War she worked at a munitions factory near Poole, cycling there with great difficulty during the blackouts. In recent years Joan was able to trace her family with the help of the Army’s Family Tracing Service. She was a strong, dependable, loving, generous lady who was happiest when her family were around her. Joan gave sacrificially of her time and talents to Branksome for many years as YPSM, home league secretary and over-60 portrayed, in a very scholarly way, the five years’ existence of this group of people who were mightily used by God. The book is so wonderfully documented and yet so easy to read – and the photographs are superb. Every Salvationist should read it! Ramsay Caffull Lieut-Colonel, Bournemouth

HELP US TO SET CAPTIVES FREE AS I write, people around the country are responding in shock to the news of three women held captive for 30 years in South London. For many it is unbelievable and unthinkable that such a situation could occur in modern Britain. As a volunteer driver and escort for The Salvation Army’s Anti-Trafficking Response, I count it a privilege to work with Major Anne Read and her team.

club leader, and also ran the luncheon club in retirement. She leaves 4 children, 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. – G. G.

BANDSMAN ROBERT BELL, PAISLEY ROBERT was brought up through the ranks at Govan and also soldiered at Parkhead and, latterly, Paisley. His sudden promotion to Glory has been a shock to family and friends. Robert was a loyal Salvationist and firstclass bandsman, whose soprano cornet playing was renowned among Army and non-Army bands. However, he never compromised his Salvationist commitments by playing in any other band and gave nothing but ‘his best for the highest’. Despite his acknowledged talent, he remained a modest and unassuming man who encouraged everyone without preaching and – with his unique sense of humour – showed everyone what he stood for. – S. B. Please note that soldiers’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 120 words. Good quality pictures will be included with tributes. Every day they are helping to set captives free, as the Army has been doing since its earliest days. Fellow Salvationists and friends of the Army, I implore you: sign up! Speak to your corps officer or contact headquarters. The faithful few who are routinely being asked to transport victims to safety at night, over the weekend or on Bank Holidays are severely stretched and I fear are putting their own personal health and wellbeing at risk. We all agree that this is work we must do. Let us not exploit our own, in order to get it done. Kathleen Versfeld, Captain, Peterborough O Readers sending letters by email should include their name, full rank if applicable and full postal address O Write to Salvationist (Letters), 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN or email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

Salvationist 7 December 2013