Salvationist 8 June 2024

WORSHIP ON WATER STEPPING OUT WITH BOLDNESS

Strong, vivid, clear

WHAT does ‘boldness’ mean to you? It has several meanings. The dictionary describes boldness as a willingness to take risks and act innovatively with confidence and courage, but it also describes boldness as the quality of having of a strong, vivid or clear appearance.

As one of the territory’s values, boldness is offered in the context of being courageous and confident in the pursuit of fulfilling our five mission priorities, but I would suggest that it would be an equally admirable aim to seek to have a strong, vivid and clear appearance: to stand up and stand out so that others might see Jesus in and through us.

Continuing our values series, this week’s issue explores what it means to be bold in the outworking of our mission. We will read of innovative ways to fulfil that mission. We will revisit projects and initiatives previously featured and check in on lessons learnt. We will celebrate learning with graduates from degree programmes at William Booth College. We will gain insight into the boldness needed to speak up about our own mental health and to support others to do so.

May we each be challenged to be strong, vivid and clear in our faith.

MAJOR JULIAN WATCHORN

Editor

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Your vote matters

Ahead of the UK general election on 4 July, Captain John Clifton encourages people to register to vote

‘HAVE you registered to vote?’

I asked one of the dads at Blackpool Citadel’s Messy Church before the by-election in May. He laughed. ‘No way. Never voted, never will!’ I was taken aback. The by-election in our constituency – Blackpool South – ended with a low voter turnout.

It took many years and the hard work of many people to ensure universal suffrage, or voting rights, in the UK. Today, UK, Irish, and some Commonwealth citizens of any race, gender or religion can cast their vote in a general election, thanks to pioneers such as the Suffragettes, Suffragists

Reflect and respond

Download the voter registration campaign resources at salvationist. org.uk/public-affairs-unit or email public.affairs@salvationarmy.org.uk for more information.

Download the voter registration campaign resources at salvationist. org.uk/public-affairs-unit or email public.affairs@salvationarmy.org.uk for more information.

If you are interested in campaigning in your local area, why not become a Social Justice Champion? Find out more at salvationarmy.org.uk/ campaigning-and-policy/socialjustice-champions

If you are interested in campaigning in your local area, why not become a Social Justice Champion? Find out more at salvationarmy.org.uk/ campaigning-and-policy/socialjustice-champions

Follow a series of election reflections by Captain John Clifton at salvationist.org.uk/articles.

and Chartists. The Salvation Army has long been part of this proud tradition, supporting the Suffrage Movement’s call for votes for women and the early movement that pushed for a more representative House of Commons.

In My Own Story, Emmeline Pankhurst wrote of how the Suffragettes took inspiration from the Army’s boldness and passion: ‘We adopted Salvation Army methods and went out into the highways and the byways after converts... Just as the Booths and their followers took religion to the street crowds ... we took suffrage to the general public.’

When anyone casts a vote in a general election, they are voting for the individual or party they believe will best represent them and will, potentially, govern the country. As citizens of the UK, voting is an important part of civic duty – and, as Christians, it’s an expression of our faith.

We believe that everyone is created in God’s image and therefore deserving of respect and value. That is why everyone who has a vote should be able to use it: everyone is important and should have their voice heard.

When we vote we also put this belief into practice by seeking to improve our communities and country so that everyone is able to flourish. While we might have different ideas or views on exactly how things might be made better, as Christians we seek justice and equal access to opportunities for everyone. Voting is therefore an

expression of loving our neighbour (see Mark 12:31), as we put the needs of our communities ahead of ourselves.

Ahead of the general election, The Salvation Army is working with Citizens UK on a campaign to ensure everyone who can vote is able to do so. And it’s urgent. To vote on 4 July, people need to register by 18 June. They also need to know the requirements: for the first time in a UK general election, anyone voting at a polling station will need to show an accepted form of photo ID.

The Public Affairs Unit has created resources, including posters and leaflets, for corps and centres to encourage voter registration and raise awareness of voting requirements. These resources are available now.

While The Salvation Army is strictly non-partisan and does not endorse or support any individual candidate or party, we do encourage people to participate and get involved. Every aspect of life should be influenced by our faith – even, and perhaps especially, politics.

After discussing all this with the Messy Church dad, he said he would give it some thought. I hope you will too!

CAPTAIN JOHN CLIFTON Territorial Justice and Reconciliation Officer

‘My

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EXPLAINED

Boldness / /

BOLDNESS is one of the UKI Territory’s six values, which also include compassion, passion, respect, integrity and mutual accountability. These were identified and listed in 2009 to describe how biblical principles could shape our behaviour.

Statement of intent

We will courageously and confidently seek to fulfil our five mission priorities: share the good news, seek justice and reconciliation, nurture disciples of Jesus, serve others without discrimination, and care for creation.

Desired behaviour

Behaviour that we want to move towards includes: Demonstrate faith. Creative missional experimentation. Honesty about mistakes. Grace and courage for hard conversations. Act on injustice – including systemic – and co-create solutions. Voice in public debate. Celebrate learning, innovation and growth.

Undesirable behaviour

Behaviour that we want to move away from and challenge includes: Complacency. Unhealthy risk-aversion preventing innovation. Bullying, arrogance. Timidity.

Biblical background

Read the theological basis for boldness in Hebrews 11:1, Acts 4:31, Philippians

2:1–7, Matthew 12:18 and Joshua 1:7.

C C

faith’s growing bolder’

Jane Carvalho (Rayleigh) prays that everyone she meets will know how much God means to her

IFIRST attended the Army when my sister and I were invited to Sunday school. That was 60 years ago and my faith has grown over the years. I was young people’s sergeant-major for a few years from the age of 17. I then met my husband in Portugal and we have been married 42 years. We had four boys, sadly one died at just 10 days old. Our sons are now grown up and we have four beautiful grandchildren.

I have always attended Rayleigh, except for three years when we lived in Portugal with my husband and his family. I transferred to Praia das Maçãs, which was an outreach of Colares Corps. The Army there was quite new, so it was different from worship in England.

My husband and I have had three restaurants. We sold up in 2007 and decided catering was enough for us, however God had other plans and I became a catering manager for a Christian leisure centre. I was able to witness to and help many young people with God’s love.

pray. He not only survived but is now a very active young man. The doctors and his family were amazed.

My favourite Army song is ‘O Boundless Salvation!’ (SASB 509). The sixth verse is my testimony: ‘The tide is now flowing, I’m touching the wave,/ I hear the loud call of the mighty to save;/ My faith’s growing bolder, delivered I’ll be;/ I plunge ’neath the waters, they roll over me.’

My favourite Bible passage is John 14:1–3: ‘Let not your heart be troubled … I go to prepare a place for you’ (New King James Version).

I pray that my family, friends and everyone I meet will always know how much God means to me and that they will experience the same, so they will be with me in Heaven.

Have you got a testimony to share? We’d love to hear your faith journey! Get in touch at salvationist@ ness to and h God’s love. t the now believe me at the re ministries and was mission secretary ven me this

Get at salvationarmy.org.uk.

I was made redundant during the Covid-19 pandemic and now believe God has other plans for me at the corps. I was the community care ministries secretary for many years and recently was commissioned as corps mission secretary. I’m delighted God has given me this responsibility.

BOLDNESS COMPASSION

Keep an eye out for widgets like this in upcoming issues to discover the many ways these values tie into our everyday. Learn about all the values in the Living Out Our Salvation Army Values booklet at salvationist.org.uk/ our-values

d al n discover This article demonstrates The Salvation Army’s key value of compassion. For more, visit salvationist.org.uk/values or scan the QR code.

For more, visit salvationist. org.uk/ our-values or scan the QR code. This article demonstrates The Salvation Army’s key value of boldness.

I remember being told by my primary school teacher that Jesus was my friend and he would never leave me. Sixty years on, Jesus is still my friend and God has never let me down. When I was in Portugal, I helped the corps officer start a Sunday school.

bigtldb er told my school teacher that was my friend and uld is my friend and God ever me down en I was in ed the corps officer school.

t outreach

One of them had any treatments, d that the doctors orps y in Portugal to

After our morning service, I would collect the children and walk back to the outreach building of Praia das Maçãs. One of them had leukaemia. After many treatments, his family was informed that the doctors could do no more. The corps officer asked all members of the Army in Portugal to

Separation from the world

Continuing a series of messages that William Booth sent to corps to be read in Sunday meetings

19 JULY 1908

THERE is a great deal in the Bible that describes the love of the world as being directly opposed to the love of God. James says: ‘Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God’ (4:4 King James Version).

John says: ‘Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him’ (1 John 2:15 KJV).

Paul counts it so dangerous that he calls upon the followers of Christ to come out and be separate from it.

These are very strong words and, seeing that we have so much to do with the world, it is most important we should know what they mean. Let me try and explain.

The world spoken of here is not the natural world around us. The hills and the valleys, the seas and the rivers, and the plains were pronounced by their Maker ‘good’ and they are so still. It is the spirit of the people in the world which is referred to, and from this you are to separate yourselves.

What, then, does separation from the world mean? It does not mean coming out from it bodily, after the fashion of monks and nuns, nor going away from it to live in desert solitudes like hermits. Many have done that, but they have generally carried the spirit of the world with them. To this kind of separation you are not called. You are to be in the

world, and yet not of the world, because you are needed in the world. You are the salt of the earth. You are called to fight, and suffer, and, perhaps, die for its salvation.

Nor does it mean refusing to take part in the business of the world, so far as you can do so lawfully. You cannot earn your bread and support your families without doing this, and there is nothing wrong in working for their benefit. God does so all the time.

But this separation must mean separation from all its evil practices. It also must mean separation from its ruling spirit: the spirit of selfishness. The spirit of God is the spirit of self-denial, the spirit of love. The one is opposed to the other as a consequence.

We must separate ourselves from the world’s pride, its ambitions and even from its honours, except they can be made helpful to the Kingdom of Christ. We must have nothing to do with its vain show.

We must keep ourselves from worldly pleasures and shun the worship of the golden idol. The Salvationist believes that the love of money is the root of all evil. How then can he join hands with men who are carried away with the passion for its gain!

You must see that separation from these things is an absolute necessity. The difference between the nature of the Salvationist and that of the worldling

compels it. ‘Can two walk together, except they be agreed?’ (Amos 3:3 KJV).

The worldling is all for himself – what profits or pleases me – while the true Salvationist is all for what will honour his God, and save the souls of men.

Nay, not only has the Salvationist no interest in the objects of the world, but its riches and pleasures have lost their power to charm him.

Soul-preservation compels separation. The Salvationist sings: ‘Begone, vain world! Thou hast no charms for me!... A nobler prize attracts mine eyes,/ Where trees immortal grow,/ A fruitful land, where milk and honey flow.’

Where are you, my comrades, on this important question? You complain sometimes that God seems to stay away from your heart. You say you are troubled with doubts about the safety of your souls and that you are filled with fears lest he should leave you to struggle with the dark waters of death alone. Perhaps the reason you have no revelation of God in your souls is that you have not yet shut out the world.

When you renounce all friendly relations with his foe, God will come to you and sanctify you. He will fill you with love, and power, and joy, and make you a conqueror over sin and Hell. Why not make the sacrifice now? What do you say?

A joyful fellowship

Major Ali Stone reminds us that what we believe is seen in how we live together

ACTS 2:42–47

THE year is 1966 and there’s a hit song in the charts that will go on to feature in a 2001 film starring a green ogre and a singing donkey. It begins: ‘I thought love was only true in fairy tales/ Meant for someone else, but not for me./ Love was out to get me/ That’s the way it seemed./ Disappointment haunted all my dreams.’

Whether Neil Diamond’s song performed by the Monkees or the film Shrek comes to mind, the lyrics of ‘I’m a Believer’ might be familiar to many. But are we sure of what we believe?

I once did some work with some street pastors. Everyone in the group had to be able to articulate, in just 60 seconds, what they believed and why. Then, while out late at night on the streets of the city, they could bring that into their conversations with the people they encountered.

What did the followers of Jesus in the early Church believe? The opening verse of our study passage shows us they believed that learning was a key activity: ‘They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching.’

The Salvation Army has 11 doctrines, which all begin with the words ‘we believe’. You can find them on page 426 of The Song Book of The Salvation Army or online at salvationist.org.uk/ourbeliefs. Do they reflect what you believe?

PAUSE AND REFLECT

When was the last time you learnt something new about your faith?

What was it and how have you used it in your life?

The new believers were like sponges, wanting to learn all they could about Jesus. But what exactly did the apostles teach? Peter, in his preaching at Pentecost, taught about what Jesus did, what it meant and how Jesus was the revelation of God come down to Earth as a man. So, the apostles taught unadulterated Jesus, not only who he was but also what it meant to live in relationship with him within the fellowship of the believers’ community.

The first verse of our study passage tells us that the believers believed in community or, specifically, ‘fellowship’. The Greek word koinonia not only means fellowship, but also partnership, the share that someone has in anything, a gift jointly contributed, a collection or a contribution. This is not simply sharing time together – it is a shared commitment to an important task.

Koinonia is sacrificial fellowship where everyone looks out for each other rather than being blinded by their own needs. We can find real joy for ourselves when we look to the needs of others rather than our own, as we realise that we are united by the same God, the same Lord and Saviour and the same Holy Spirit.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

When was the last time you sacrificially gave of yourself in fellowship with others?

Do you find sharing with others to be something that energises or exhausts you?

Do you freely share your experiences so others can benefit? How do you feel if you do this?

Verses 42 and 46 speak about ‘breaking bread’. Many scholars believe this relates to the Lord’s Supper. Clearly, sharing food together – whether in large or small groups – was something the first believers felt was important.

In recent years, the idea of small groups has become popular in churches and might perhaps be seen as a new expression of worship. Yet, here we read that the first believers met in small groups as well as in corporate gatherings and shared in faith-based teaching over food.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

When was the last time you shared in food and faith with others?

These first Christians believed in prayer, which led to everyone being ‘filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles’ (v43).

Prayer is a great leveller. It doesn’t matter what our ethnicity, age, sexuality or culture is; God wants to hear from us. God welcomes all his children and shows us what we need to know when it comes to equity and diversity. God loves us all.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

How do you feel about loving those who are different, or who have different beliefs to you?

How could you make steps to embrace people you find it hard to love?

Verse 45 tells us the believers ‘sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need’. Yet the very next verse tells us ‘they broke bread in their homes’. Therefore, if some still had their homes, not all the believers necessarily

sold everything they had. However, all of them would have been taught that they should be good stewards of all God had given them and to give to those in need.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Read the story of the rich young ruler in Mark 10:17–27.

How would you feel if God called you to give away your possessions?

How might you feel about selling your most treasured possession?

Ultimately, I think these verses tell us that the first followers of Jesus believed in a joyful Church.

They felt joy in all they did. They exhibited excitement and an openness to learning something new, never thinking they knew it all but always eager to learn from others. They experienced joy in having a loving fellowship with God and with each other. This was exemplified by their active prayer life, joy in worship and time spent sharing food and possessions.

Do our Army fellowships reflect these things? If not, why not?

Perhaps if our corps were more like the fellowships of the first believers, the Lord would add to our numbers daily those who were being saved.

As of January 2024, Prayer Matters is following a new prayer rhythm, to pray for renewal in this territory’s worship and mission. Each day has a theme, based on the five mission priorities. To read the unedited Prayer Matters booklet visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship

SATURDAY 8 JUNE: CARE FOR CREATION – BREATH OF GOD

Lord, we thank you for the beauty and wonder that can be seen in all of creation. As you breathed life into this world and into our beings, we ask you to breathe life into us once again. We pray for you to give us the strength to respond to creation in a way that reflects your loving care and concern for all things.

by UKI Boiler Room team

SUNDAY 9 JUNE: SABBATH PRAYER – ABSENT FATHERS

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the love and example of good fathers. We recognise the societal consequences when fathers are absent physically or emotionally, and we ask you to break through into their lives, teaching them how to be truly present for their families. We pray too for their children, that you will help them sense your presence. May we, as imperfect fathers, point children to you, their perfect Father and the real hero.

by Captain Tim Swansbury (Rotherham)

MONDAY 10 JUNE: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – WALES DIVISION

Living God, we pray for the work of The Salvation Army in Wales. We ask you to raise up leaders and provide resources for existing work to flourish and new work to develop.

by Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts (Divisional Commander)

TUESDAY 11 JUNE: SERVING AND CARING – TOGETHER 2024 (13–14 JULY)

Dyma Gariad means ‘Here Is Love’. Pray that all who attend this year’s commissioning and territorial gathering in Newport will capture a sense of God’s love as we celebrate his faithfulness through a century and a half of mission and ministry in Wales.

by Captain Kathryn Stowers (Divisional Ecumenical Officer)

WEDNESDAY 12 JUNE: GROWING IN FAITH – BRENGLE INSTITUTE 2024 (11–19 JUNE)

We pray for the 30 officers attending Brengle Institute 2024 – a week of learning and retreat at Sunbury Court. May they quickly become a community, experiencing deep renewal in spirit and finding much-needed rest and refreshment. Lord, be with and inspire the team who will teach and lead this event.

by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts (Secretary for Spiritual Life Development)

THURSDAY 13 JUNE: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – INDIA EASTERN TERRITORY

Pray for the India Eastern Territory, its territorial leaders and its regional and local leaders. Pray for all those caring for the needs of the poorest in society, for miraculous provision of everything they need to help people find a way out of poverty.

by Lyndall

Bywater (UKI Boiler Room team)

FRIDAY 14 JUNE: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – REFUGEE WEEK (17–23 JUNE)

Lord, as we prepare for Refugee Week with its theme of Our Home, grant us the generosity of spirit that all sanctuary seekers may have this experience of home at The Salvation Army.

by Ben Still (Refugee Response Manager)

MAJOR ALI STONE Chaplain Villa Adastra Care Home

PRAYER REQUESTS

Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for?

Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line and it will be upheld in prayer.

Equipped with knowledge, un

WILLIAM BOOTH COLLEGE

AN afternoon of celebration and recognition of the graduates of the Christian Theology and Practice and the Pastoral Care with Psychology degrees was held in the Assembly Hall, report Higher Education Degree Course Leaders Major Carolyn Clampton and Major Paul Hilditch

The focus of the Christian Theology and Practice degree is to bring the resources of academic theology into conversation with Christian discipleship and practice, while the Pastoral Care with Psychology degree is designed to develop students’ academic knowledge, understanding, skills and experience of pastoral care within their varied contexts.

Both programmes are specifically designed for officers wanting to build upon, and enhance, their initial training. They are taught by qualified, practitioner officer tutors who have a personal investment in the vitality of Christian faith and practice in critical times.

The unit head for higher education, Major Stephen Oliver, welcomed many special guests to the event, including Territorial Leader Commissioner Jenine Main, who is the chair of William Booth College Governing Council, Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest and representatives from William

Booth College’s higher education partners – New City College and York St John University – as well as the many friends, family members, and divisional headquarters representatives who gathered to support and congratulate the new graduates.

The 22 graduates have studied for their degrees alongside full-time ministry appointments, and it is testimony to their commitment, discipline and dedication that they all successfully completed their studies. Before congratulating each graduate individually, Commissioner Jenine commended their academic achievements while reminding us all that, when wisely applied within the context of the Holy Spirit’s fruit of love and gentleness, learning has the potential to become an equipping force for God’s mission.

Major Tom Stirling, who, with others, has been instrumental in developing both degrees since 2004, shared something of the vision there had been for William Booth College to provide opportunities for officers to engage in bespoke, specially designed bachelor programmes. He spoke about the importance of an open mind and being able and willing to ask the right questions. He underlined the need of

being able to communicate theological truths in practical, relevant and understandable ways.

Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Captain Luke Johnson (Minster) recounted how studying for the Christian Theology and Practice degree had increased his confidence in communicating to a wide and varied audience, and Captain Yvonne West (Wetherby) spoke of how the learning from the Pastoral Care with Psychology degree had impacted her understanding of herself and others, and equipped her to minister through times of challenge and change.

They both paid tribute to families, colleagues and the staff teams for the wide and varied support they had received during their learning experiences.

Lieut-Colonel Judith Payne, principal of William Booth College, concluded the afternoon by thanking everyone present and expressing gratitude for the preparations made for the day’s celebrations.

The Music and Creative Arts team accompanied the ceremony, their music reflecting the dignity and joy of the day.

The final congregational song summed up the centrality of Christ in all we do: ‘Into our lives your power breaks through,/ Living Lord’ (SASB 147).

Pictures: Paul Harmer

derstanding and confidence

MAJOR REBECCA HUNN Chaplain, Homelessness Services

BA (Hons) Pastoral Care with Psychology

It is impossible to separate the impact study has had upon both my life and my ministry. I had always realised that there were reasons for behaviour, but understanding more about this has transformed my pastoral care and ministry.

Since completing the degree programme, I have reflected on situations I have faced, considering why I behaved as I did. This process has been life-changing. In understanding my own behaviour more, I am learning to let go of anger and hurt, which in turn is positively impacting present circumstances and relationships. I am also realising I have a voice and do not always need to adhere to expectations of others.

My prayer is that I can use this fresh understanding to come alongside others, and enable them to see that, because of God’s love and compassion, they too can experience this transformation and know that they can have autonomy, a voice and a way forward.

CAPTAIN LISA CUNNINGHAM

Portadown

BA (Hons) Pastoral Care with Psychology

We, as human beings, can be complex and complicated people who lead different and complex lives! As a Salvation Army officer one of my responsibilities is to provide pastoral care for a wide range of people, with a wide range of personal circumstances and experiences, who are part of the corps and community to which I’m appointed.

For me this is also a personal passion, as I desire to see people flourish in their own circumstances, recognising all that God has made them and how he can use them.

This programme has been so helpful in expanding my understanding of human behaviour and experience, and applying this knowledge in practical ways that I pray will enhance the pastoral care I am able to provide. It has given me new language to understand others and strategies in pastoral care.

LIEUTENANT IAN BARKER

Notting Hill with Kilburn

BA (Hons) Christian Theology and Practice

During my learning I’ve been exposed to many academic voices that weave together practical theology and spirituality in such a way that allows me to explore Christian theology to a new depth, particularly considering how Church relates with the secular amid the crises of our contemporary age. Not only has this been transformative in the sense of corps ministry, but also for me as a disciple.

For instance, I have always deeply sensed that God’s power can be experienced most in one’s vulnerability and helplessness. A personal highlight of the course was being able to study and reflect on critical texts that speak into this – allowing me to further unpack that in light of the modern self.

I am currently studying for an MA in Biblical Studies. I am grateful that this degree has given me a good grounding for this!

LIEUTENANT JAMIE SLATER Bicester BA (Hons) Christian Theology and Practice

Nelson Mandela said: ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.’ I did not study this degree to change the world. I just wanted to better understand what I believe to be true and to be able to share this with others in a practical way.

Given the opportunity – under the teaching, support and encouragement of a learned group of tutors – I was fascinated and enthralled by the academic and practical study. Blessed with a congregation that wanted to journey alongside me, I was eager to share with them and we continue to reflect and learn together.

I particularly enjoyed my research for a paper that I wrote on The Salvation Army’s ecclesiology in print and practice. The Army has clearly changed the world, through love, yes, but also through education. Long may we continue to change the world in Jesus’ name.

Doing a new thing!

Salvationist discovers how corps are boldly exploring creative avenues of ministry

The Isle of Sheppey

Sheerness

Major Lynne Clifton

How it started…

Obedience to God’s call to start a fresh expression of the Army on the Isle of Sheppey was the catalyst to the Holy Spirit doing amazing things in the life of the community.

How it’s going…

Bathed in prayer, corps members have been overjoyed to see lives transformed and miracles happening as they have stepped out in bold faith. God is honing our vision as we prepare to step out in seeking to train and equip young unemployed adults with low aspirations and poor education to become changemakers in our community.

The Link

Haverhill

Major Wendy Goodman

How it started…

The Link was set up in an empty shop as an information and listening service by Territorial Envoys Alison and Russell Day, who came up with the tagline ‘creating community connections’.

How it’s going…

We help more than 100 people every week and direct them to organisations that can help. Increasingly, organisations refer clients to us. Some people who visited for help have now joined the team and are blossoming as volunteers. We don’t raise spiritual questions unless visitors raise them first. We had a Muslim couple who came in, so we phoned the town mosque and the imam came down. It’s so important to have good links. We’re now taking a bold step by employing a manager to oversee what looks like an exciting time ahead!

Surf Church St Ives

Captain Nathan Loxley

How it started…

It perhaps sounds cooler than it is! We go on the beach and read a Bible passage together, then have an hour to walk or go in the sea – and then have breakfast together and pray. We’ve been doing it nearly two years and it started with three of us meeting up faithfully because we felt God wanted us to.

How it’s going…

It’s taking off! We do it regardless of the weather and waves. We find being faithful in the same place has been great, as you get to know the same dog walkers, swimming groups and so on. We had about 45 people the other day. I think it’s partly because it’s fun – who wouldn’t want to be there?

Walking Church

Hadleigh Farm

Captain Wendy Watkins

How it started…

I organised a walking group through Lent to give space for people to connect with God in creation. I hadn’t planned more but people wanted to continue. Walking Church has all the elements of an Acts 2 church: we share breakfast, read Scripture, worship God, pray, ask questions and enjoy fellowship.

How it’s going…

A regular community meets every week –1 to 20 people of all ages who, only a few weeks ago, were not attending any place of worship. This is where they want to be on Sunday mornings and they want others to know. I believe God will send people who need to be here. It can feel uncomfortable not knowing who will turn up, but I guess that’s boldness and faith!

Crofting for Christ Shetland

Major Bev Womersley

How it started…

In July 2021, we sought God’s guidance in recommencing Salvation Army ministry. With no congregation and a hall in the process of being sold, it was a blank canvas. In November, discussions with a crofter resulted in a polytunnel. The first opened in April 2022 and enabled us to grow produce to support the community.

How it’s going…

Two years on, we opened a second for people to read, reflect and pray in, with refreshments and toilet facilities available. The nearby land has chickens, sheep and two goats called Alec and Magnie. The project is developing all the time. People regularly pop by, and a school brings small groups. We had no idea our ministry would look like this. God has provided for, surprised and equipped us beyond our imaginations.

Walking on water

Maidstone

Hazell Ball

How it started…

The Walk on Water paddleboarding group emerged during the Covid-19 pandemic, inspired by the importance of staying focused on Jesus and being brave enough to step out of the boat. We enjoy Sunday afternoons on the lake sharing playful times with opportunity for personal reflection, space and peace.

How it’s going…

Our 2023 season kicked off with an Easter egg hunt. People sat in swan boats with clues and, as paddleboarders worked them out, the lake resounded with cries of ‘he is risen’! Rain stopped play for the summer, but small numbers met for soggy sessions. This year has not been much better, but the rain causes us to pause and reflect on the opportunities this outreach provides. We believe in it, and we pray God will use it in 2024.

A pioneering setting Forest of Dean

Major Vivienne Prescott

How it started…

God called me to plant the Army here 18 years ago. Everything we do is pioneering. We don’t have a normal corps programme and everything we do is very much in response to what our community needs. We hold it all very lightly.

How it’s going…

Today we have our Growth and Learning Equine-Assisted Ministry, a refurbished pub and so much more. For example, we had some social workers come in from a refugee centre. They’re working with some kids and don’t know how to support them. So we go in, see what the need is and put a package together. We are still very responsive to our community – it’s how we’ve always done it here and, I pray, how we always will. We are planning a one-day pioneering course this summer ahead of a new pioneering placement initiative in the autumn, called Equip. For more details, email forestofdean@salvationarmy.org.uk

Corps in a charity shop Dorchester Major Anne Read

How it started…

When the second Army charity shop in the town was closed, the small worshipping community moved into the space. When I took responsibility for the corps 18 months ago, we let the location go and moved meetings back into the existing charity shop, where we have been for the past nine months.

How it’s going…

As well as Sunday worship on the mezzanine, our programme includes a midweek drop-in. We also add a significant dimension to the work of the charity shop. Our worship is vibrant. We are still a small congregation, but we are committed, enthusiastic, creative followers of Jesus who serve him in our community. I feel passionately that what we are doing here could be replicated in other places.

‘Talking is a victory’

Mally (Horden) talks to Stevie Hope about his club for men

MALCOLM Gooch, known locally as Mally, is the welcoming face and namesake of Mally’s Manclub at Horden Corps. Whether you want to catch up with mates, play a game of chess with a stranger, or simply sit and enjoy a book, the weekly group offers space for men to meet up, have fun and find camaraderie.

Mally has come a long way in recent years. When he first linked up with the corps, he insisted that he’d never attend Sunday services. He was even less keen on picking up any sort of role that would involve having to talk to strangers. Now, he’s an adherent who attends every week, regularly volunteers and leads Mally’s Manclub.

‘I was raised Roman Catholic,’ he says. ‘I could read the Catechism backwards and even speak Latin, but I stepped away for years. When I came here, I felt I needed to give something back.’

Mally works to ensure everybody who steps through the hall doors is made to feel welcome.

‘I wanted to make a place where lads can just chill out, and the hardest step is coming through the door,’ Mally points out. ‘In the past, I’d have come to The Salvation Army, got to the door and walked away.’

Having faced challenges of his own,

Mally is keenly aware of the mental health struggles that many men face and why simple community groups like this are needed. Studies have often found that men are far less likely than women to seek help with their mental health. Charity Mental Health UK suggests that as few as 36 per cent of all NHS referrals for mental health therapy are for men, despite men being three times more likely than women to die by suicide.

A C C OUNTABILITY

hard conversations. And the beauty of a club like this is that it brings all sorts of people together.

BOLDNESS

This article demonstrates The Salvation Army’s key value of boldness.

LAUTUM

This article demonstrates The Salvation Army’s key value of compassion.

For more, visit salvationist. org.uk/ our-values or scan the QR code.

For more, visit salvationist.org.uk/values or scan the QR code.

‘I had one guy come,’ Mally explains, ‘who said he’d lost his wife two weeks previously. And I said, “Look, I can’t help you. But I know somebody who can.” There was a guy in the club that night who was my support worker from when I was going through a bad time. They had a talk for the rest of the evening.’

YTIRGETNI

While there is no direct mental health support offered through the group, Mally is keen to encourage openness and awareness with his motto: ‘Talking is a victory.’ In doing so, he hopes to break down the barriers created by harmful stereotypes about what it means to be a ‘real man’.

Mally knows he doesn’t have all the answers, but he exemplifies the territory’s value of boldness by being willing to graciously and courageously step into

COMPASSION P NOISSA

TCEPSER

‘The big thing is to get them to open up,’ he continues. ‘If I can get one guy through the door, and he goes out happy or in a better frame of mind, I’ve done my job!’

‘I’ve gone through mental health issues and I’m at the other side,’ he adds. ‘So don’t be afraid to talk – it does work!’

STEVIE HOPE Editorial Assistant Salvationist

Kirkwall Branching out to Burray

FROM CONCERT TO CAFÉ CHURCH

As the corps officers at Kirkwall, we’re thrilled that Burray Café Church has been recognised as an outpost of the Army in Orkney. How it came to be is exciting and shows God’s leading in a spectacular way.

In December 2018, John was asked to speak at Burray Primary School’s Christmas concert and was struck by how friendly and welcoming the island people were. On his way home John felt God clearly say: ‘Kirkwall Salvation Army needs to do something in Burray.’ He came home and shared that and we sat with it for a while. Burray is a small island of only 400 people, so it didn’t seem to be a natural ‘target’ for new Salvation Army activity. We prayed that if it really was something God wanted us to do, he might give us some kind of confirmation.

CONTINUED CONFIRMATION

That Sunday, adherent Alma Balfour was leading the prayer meeting and talked about the revival in Westray – another of the Orkney islands – in 1904. ‘And do you know where it all started?’ she asked. ‘Burray. Isn’t that amazing?’ John was stunned but we kept it to ourselves a bit longer.

A week or so later we were talking about Burray while getting ready to go to the home league. John asked: ‘How do you know if an idea comes from God, or if it’s just something you think would be a good thing to do?’ We headed to the hall and enjoyed the ministry of adherents Cyril and Eileen Unsworth. At one point, Cyril said: ‘Sometimes people wonder whether an idea they have comes from God or if

it’s something they think would be a good idea. To those people, I say just do it!’

This was the confirmation we were waiting for! We felt strongly that this needed to be a corps outreach, rather than something the two of us did. After all, God had clearly said ‘Kirkwall Salvation Army needs to do something in Burray’, not ‘you need to do something in Burray’. After visiting the island’s community hall, the first of three summer café churches was scheduled for June 2019.

HEAVENLY HELP FROM HAWAII

A couple of weeks before it took place, the leader of Life Church Orkney spoke to us. Someone in Hawaii had contacted him a few years back, saying he had been led to pray for somewhere called Burray. He had discovered where it was, found the number for the Life Church leader and got in touch. The two of them had been praying for Burray ever since. Yet more confirmation!

Thirty-two people came to the first café church. Christians in Burray and the neighbouring island of South Ronaldsay supported the venture and had been praying for Burray to have its own church for years. Even more people attended the café churches in July and August that year and a Christmas café church took place just before the Covid-19 pandemic struck.

HUNGRY FOR HIM

A café church in June 2022 showed there was still an appetite and the then territorial leaders, Commissioners Anthony and Gill Cotterill, came to speak at the August café church as part of

their North Scotland Summer Campaign. There was a very real sense that God was still in it. One-off events continued and, from March 2023, Burray Café Church has happened monthly.

We were delighted to have divisional leaders Major Gillian Jackson and Major Steve Dutfield join us recently for Burray Café Church to be officially recognised as an outpost with us installed as the leaders.

It’s a vibrant expression of the Army and it’s going from strength to strength, with new people coming along each month. We were thrilled to have almost 60 people attend as we enrolled the first two soldiers at the outpost. We look forward to what God will do in the days ahead.

Fast Facts

DIVISION: North Scotland

CORPS OFFICERS: Captains John and Rebecca Mitchinson FIND US ONLINE: facebook.com/ kirkwallsalvationarmy

An uplifting visit

KOREA

CHIEF of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Shelley Hill visited the territory for a series of profound and uplifting meetings.

More than 200 Salvationists attended the Sunday holiness meeting at Yeongdeungpo Corps. Commissioner Shelley shared insights from her spiritual journey, highlighting God’s constant guidance and grace. Commissioner Edward’s Bible message, based on Psalm 25:4–10, emphasised the crucial role of Jesus Christ as the ultimate guide.

The following two-day territorial women’s rally took place at the Baekhwasan Retreat Centre, where more than 830 Salvationists participated. Commissioner Shelley spoke about international women’s ministries, urging her listeners to trust in God’s work. This was the first occurrence of the rally in nine years and each moment was filled with grace, challenge and profound inspiration.

The first of two days allocated to the united officers’ councils covered five of the territory’s seven divisions and took place at Cheonan Corps with more than 270 participants, while councils for the other two divisions were held the next day at Gwacheon Corps with more than 200 participants.

A time of fervent prayer was held for The Salvation Army throughout the territory.

Commissioner Hill emphasised the importance of dwelling in God’s presence for safety, teaching, help, fellowship, rest and refreshment. – AR

EVENT

COMMUNITY

ST ALBANS The mayor, Councillor Anthony Rowlands, and Divisional Commander Major Howard Russell opened the new corps community café. Called Sally’s, the café is open

Centre 33 to serve hot meals each evening. The mayor expressed his delight over the corps desiring ‘to create an environment that is welcoming for everyone’. It was conceived by corps officer Captain Wan Gi Lee, who wanted to provide a place for people to socialise after the Covid-19 lockdowns. The café is manned by dedicated volunteers led by manager Sandra Orchard. – BH

MUSIC

BEDFORD CONGRESS HALL The ukulele group, led by

received by residents, and the centre matron requested the group return. – JM

EVENT

CIRENCESTER A Rogation Sunday walk was held to ask for God’s blessing on the town. After a Bible reading and prayer

readings. Afterwards everyone returned to the hall to take

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

MORLEY Band Basics – a developing ministry in the division – has been introducing young people to music-making and Jesus. Children gather weekly to learn to play instruments and listen to a Kids Alive!-inspired thought for the day. The group recently performed at St George’s Day celebrations in the high street. – JB

TEDDINGTON Corps folk welcomed Army officers from all around the world as the 257th session of the International College for Officers led worship. The meeting focus was

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

HADLEIGH TEMPLE AND LEIGH-ON-SEA

Salvationist wants to hear from you!

Corps press representatives can email reports to salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk. Good quality pictures may be included.

OUTREACH

MIDDLESBROUGH CITADEL Members

PAIGNTON

PAIGNTON COMMUNITY

Songster Maureen Pearce (Market Rasen) promotes the Army alongside William Booth at the Wragby scarecrow festival

HEATHER Goldsbrough was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Lieutenant Stephanie Bellshaw on Easter Day. Heather first came to the Army as a teenager

back when the church they had been leading closed. Heather testified to God’s leading through the years and thanked members of the corps for their constant support. Heather is pictured (centre) with corps officers Lieutenants Martyn

were welcomed as adherents by corps our café by her adherent friend and has been working with us for two years

Rachel Lightly (Bedlington) led the together for lunch and cake afterwards.

IMOGEN Masters was enrolled

felt called to soldiership. She testified powerfully to the change that God has made in her life. Holding the flag is

BRENDA Head was enrolled as a soldier

Brenda initially came to the corps

decided that she was being led to commit and family gathered to witness Brenda’s enrolment as she testified to her faith

GILLINGHAM

FAKENHAM

WOKINGHAM

EDDIE

SHILDON

FELTHAM

AS the John Peel Theatre celebrated its 60th anniversary, Captains Mel and Steve Scoulding (Carlisle) were delighted to unveil a plaque recognising early-day Salvationist WJ Carrick. Carrick, who left his profession as a solicitor to become a lieutenant, was the driving force behind the establishment of the building, which housed the Army in Wigton for more than 50 years. During recent building renovations, a memorial stone to him was uncovered and the stone and plaque now have pride of place in the south wall of a building that still serves its community. Captains Mel and Steve are pictured with theatre co-chair Kate Jensen. – MS

AMID Easter Day praise, corps officer Major Sue Tansley presented junior soldier Joshua with a prize for attendance and a bronze certificate for positive behaviour at school. – KH

IS LOCAL OFFICERSHIP?

CORPS Treasurer Iain Murray and Corps Press Representative Bill Ions received retirement certificates from corps officer Major Liz Hancock after serving for 11 and 10 years respectively. – BI

From music to finance, speak to your corps leader about the available local leadership roles your gifts might be suited to. For more details, visit salvationist. org.uk/localofficership or scan the QR code.

CORPS officer Major Tracey Mountford presented Geoff Jordan with a certificate recognising 70 years of service as a bandsman. – TM

WIGTON

NEWCASTLE CITY TEMPLE

SHAW

CHELMSFORD

ARMY PEOPLE

Appointed

Effective 11 April

MAJOR CHRISTINE McCUTCHEON, additional appointment, Divisional Ecumenical Officer, Central, Southern and Channel Islands

Effective 22 April

LIEUT-COLONEL CAROL BAILEY, Associate Officer, Greenock (21 hours a week)

Effective 9 May

CAPTAIN TRACY COLLIS, additional appointment, Divisional Ecumenical Officer, North West and Isle of Man

CAPTAIN MEL SCOULDING , additional appointment, Divisional Ecumenical Officer, North West and Isle of Man

CAPTAIN STEVE SCOULDING , additional appointment, Divisional Ecumenical Officer, North West and Isle of Man

CAPTAIN ANGELIQUE VAN DER WOUDE , additional appointment, Divisional Prayer Co-ordinator, North West and Isle of Man

CAPTAIN COR VAN DER WOUDE, additional appointment, Divisional Prayer Co-ordinator, North West and Isle of Man

MAJOR ALLISTER VERSFELD, additional appointment, Divisional Ecumenical Officer, North West and Isle of Man

Effective 20 May

MAJOR IAN COOK , Scunthorpe (Worship and Pastoral Care) (15 hours a week)

MAJOR LYNNE SHAW, Editorial Assistant – Publishing, Communications Service

Effective 23 May

CAPTAIN DANIEL HOLLAND, Service Manager, Homelessness Services Westminster Outreach, Mission Service

MAJOR DAVID TIDBALL , additional appointment, Hayle (1 day a week)

MAJOR SUSAN TIDBALL , additional appointment, Hayle (1 day a week)

MAJOR IAIN STEWART, additional appointment, Divisional Safeguarding Lead, North Scotland

CAPTAIN ALEX WOOD, additional appointment, Divisional Safeguarding Officer, North West and Isle of Man

Wedding anniversaries

Blue Sapphire (65 years)

COMMISSIONERS MARIAN AND NORMAN HOWE on 20 June

Diamond (60 years)

MARIE AND ROY DARRAH, Belfast Citadel, on 16 June

Golden (50 years)

BANDSMAN BRAM AND SONGSTER HAZEL WARREN, Brighton Congress Hall, on 8 June

SONGSTER DENISE AND BANDSMAN/SONGSTER WES CARTER , Ipswich Citadel, on 22 June

Promoted to Glory

KEITH CHADWICK , Paignton, on 16 May

Bereaved

PHILIP CHADWICK , Paignton, and Stuart Chadwick of their father Keith Chadwick

ENGAGEMENTS

General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham Wed 12 Jun – Mon 17 Jun USA Western Territory

Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Shelley Hill Thu 6 Jun – Mon 10 Jun USA Eastern Territory (Commissioning)

Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main Mon 10 Jun – Tue 11 Jun Birmingham (SATCoL Conference)* Tue 11 Jun Sunbury Court (Brengle)** Tue 18 Jun Northampton (Enabled Summer Extravaganza)

Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest Sat 8 Jun – Sun 9 Jun Northampton

*Commissioner Paul Main only

**Commissioner Jenine Main only

NOTICES

Help for engaging local politicians

If you’re keen to engage with local politicians or have been approached by one, please contact the Public Affairs Unit at public.affairs@ salvationarmy.org.uk, who can support you with raising awareness of the issues that matter in your area. Guidance and support on the political landscape, elections, building relationships and campaigning are available at salvationist.org.uk/pau. Also stay tuned for a general election-inspired issue of Salvationist planned for 29 June.

Volunteers’ Week

Every day the territory’s dedicated, mobilised force of church members and volunteers helps deliver the Army’s mission to love God and love others. Volunteers’ Week (3–9 June) is a great opportunity to say thank you for all they do and encourage others to get involved. Find resources to thank and recruit volunteers at salvationist.org.uk/volunteering

Refugee Week

Find Our Home-themed resources to mark Refugee Week (17–23 June) including a teaching outline and topics for prayer at salvationist.org.uk/resources

SOUNDS

Sunday Worship

Major Jo Moir (THQ) leads Sunday Worship this weekend. Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights, including music, prayer and a Bible message. Each week’s broadcast is also repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio

Evening Jazz with Richard Mingay

Major Richard Mingay (William Booth College) shares the good news through his love of jazz and gospel music. The episode is broadcast at 7pm on Sunday 9 June and repeated in full at 9pm on Friday 14 June.

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio

DUDLEY TOWN HALL, ST JAMES’S ROAD DY1 1HP

Saturday 15 June, 7pm (doors open 6.15pm)

AN EVENING WITH THE STARS

The world-famous Cory Band with international vocal soloist Charlie Green

Tickets: £21, available from Richard Campbell on 07387 308718

REGENT HALL, 275 OXFORD STREET, LONDON W1C 2DJ

Sunday 23 June, 2pm STORIES BEHIND OUR FAVOURITE HYMNS

with Pam Rhodes (from Songs of Praise) supported by Regent Hall Band and Songsters. Free entry! Come along and sing!

IPSWICH CITADEL, 558 WOODBRIDGE ROAD, IPSWICH IP4 4PH A CONCERT

REGENT HALL BAND

Bandmaster Paul Sharman

Saturday 29 June, 7pm Entry £5 on door – under-16s free

TO LET

ALTEA, SPAIN Modern two-bedroom, two-bathroom heated apartment. Pool, tennis, garden, garage. Shops, restaurants, beach close, hill-walking. Warm winter area. Airport transfers available. Tel 02920 759314 or email dee.jones@virgin.net.

TOPSHAM, DEVON Two-bedroom cottage overlooking Exe Estuary and hills. Local shops, inns, teashops, walks. Coast, moors, Exeter nearby. Tel 02920 759314 or email dee.jones@virgin.net.

MAIDENHEAD CORPS, EAST ROAD, MAIDENHEAD SL6 1PJ BIRMINGHAM CITADEL YOUNG MUSICIANS

Saturday 22 June, 7pm

Sunday 23 June, 10.30am and 2pm

Admission free. Retiring collections to cover expenses

CHARMING HOLIDAY COTTAGE BY THE SEA, LOOE, CORNWALL

Seafront parking, stairlift avail if req’d, sleeps 2 to 8, pets welcome, open all year. For a free colour brochure by post/email call 0800 334 5609 anytime or email us at cornishdreamslooe@gmail.com

ADVERTISING RATES

PRICES EXCLUDE VAT

Classified listing Up to 25 words£9£20

Classified listing Up to 50 words£18£40

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

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

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

Quarter page 89mm x 127mm£170£440

Half page 127mm x 181mm£340£850

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

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

They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to proclaim God’s to message with began message filled with the Holy Spirit