Salvationist 9 feb 2013 by The Salvation Army UK and Ireland

SALVATIONIST

Essential reading for everyone linked to The Salvation Army // www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 9 February 2013 // No. 1384 // Price 60p // Also available digitally

Pages 12 and 13

CONTENTS 3.

FROM THE EDITOR

4. PAPERS This week’s quotes from the papers and picture caption competition

12. & 13.

5. – 8. NEWS Romford // Chester // Louth // Bellshill // Norwich Citadel // Colchester Citadel // Edinburgh City // Gloucester // London // Bolton Citadel // London Central // Sleaford // Dulwich // Penarth // IHQ // 9.

LETTERS

10. The Sacred Journey 10. Mind the gap!

REVIEW

11. Finance fit for the future

FEATURE

12. & 13. Blood on the flag

FEATURE

14. Lessons to be learnt 15. Glimpses of God

TRAIN LINES

VIEWPOINT

BIBLE STUDY

16. & 17. NEW COMMITMENTS 18. ANNOUNCEMENTS Army people, engagements, tributes and new year quiz results 19. – 23. 24.

ADVERTS THROUGH THE WEEK WITH SALVATIONIST

10.

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

Salvationist 9 February 2013

FROM THE EDITOR

CHECK OUT ‘WOULD anyone like to use the self-service tills?’ an assistant asked the lengthy Saturday morning queue at Marks & Spencer. The number of staffed tills had been reduced by two but, as intrepid shoppers, we were going to stand our ground – that is, until I gave way and stepped forward. The same assistant looked rather doubtfully at me and asked: ‘Have you ever used a selfservice till before?’ I assured her that I had, but sometimes I needed assistance. ‘That’s all right, I won’t be far away’ she responded. The other queue was still moving very slowly, but now at least they had the entertainment of watching my attempts at the self-service till. I just told myself keep calm and follow the prompts. It’s only a machine after all. Finding some of the barcodes was quite a challenge and I don’t think I would win the title of self-service till customer of the year, but I managed the transactions without assistance. The morning’s events served as a reminder of how a simple shopping trip has changed so much in just a few years. Not many of us now would go into a bank to cash a cheque, when we could withdraw cash at a ‘hole in the wall’, or pay using a card. When I read about Reliance Bank’s cheque issue reduction project (see page 11) and the fact that it will save money and resources and benefit Salvation Army mission elsewhere, I thought, surely this should happen! If we have to cope with initial change then so be it. Even a novice at a self-service till eventually manages without assistance. This week I will be scanning lemons at the self-service till ready for Pancake Day which is followed by the start

SALVATIONIST GENERAL INQUIRIES (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist (fax) 020 7367 4691 EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Laura Barker – (tel) 020 7367 4893 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Kersten Rieder – (tel) 020 7367 4894

of Lent on Ash Wednesday. During Lent we are once again publishing extracts from the York Courses (page 15). The material has been prepared by Canon David Winter and is suited to personal and small-group study. The opening study focuses on God who hears the cry of suffering humanity. Also this week (on pages 12 and 13) Editor of The War Cry Major Nigel Bovey is looking for your help as he researches the Skeleton Army, a force that set out to destroy The Salvation Army in its earliest days. History reflects the courage of those pioneer Salvationists and provides evidence that God had other plans, which are still being worked out today. MAJOR JANE KIMBERLEY

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DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter – (tel) 020 7367 4895 DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza – (tel) 020 7367 4896 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jonathan Carmichael – (tel) 020 7367 4883 ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino – (tel) 020 7367 4881

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. © Linda Bond, 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 Linda Bond TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Clive Adams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Martin Hill

Salvationist 9 February 2013

PAPERS

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS THINK-TANK PRAISES CHRISTIAN INVOLVEMENT Faith groups involved in the provision of services in four key areas of public life are praised in a new report from the left-leaning think-tank Demos entitled Faithful Providers. The report examines faith groups providing services voluntarily with the help of public money in employment and training services, services to young people, integration and cohesion and drug and alcohol rehabilitation. It finds little evidence to support common criticism that such faith groups use the service they offer to make converts and that they discriminate in who they are prepared to help. It argues that ‘faithful providers are often highly motivated and effective, and often serve as the permanent and persistent pillars of community action within local communities’… Although the report sees dangers in ‘aggressive proselytising’ it sees nothing wrong with service providers openly discussing their faith, particularly with those who ask and are interested in learning more about religious questions. The Church of England Newspaper

CAP REPORT DISPELS ‘MYTHS’ People in poverty are being stigmatised by ‘myths and distortions’ peddled by the media and politicians, a report published… by Church Action on Poverty (CAP) argues… It says that ‘people increasingly feel ashamed, and judged by others, if they are in poverty – particularly if they are receiving benefits’. One of the ‘myths’ singled out by the report is the ‘false dichotomy between “deserving poor” (“strivers”, children, pensioners) and “undeserving poor” (“shirkers”, drug addicts, “hoodies”)’. The report quotes figures from the Office for National Statistics which suggest that ‘70 per cent of unemployed people find work again within a year, and fewer than one in five remain unemployed for longer than 24 months’. Another perception the report seeks to dispel is ‘the supposed existence of families “where three generations have never worked”,’… Research conducted by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation last year ‘was unable to identify a single example where this was actually the case’, the report states. Church Times

WELCOME FOR RULING AGAINST PAYDAY LENDER

Conscientious beliefs about the definition of marriage should be a ‘protected characteristic’ under the Equality Act, an MP said... Edward Leigh, the Conservative member for Gainsborough, secured Commons support, through the tenminute-rule procedure, to bring in a Bill to give beliefs about marriage the same legal protection as age, disability and race.

The Association of Christian Financial Advisers (ACFA) has welcomed the decision by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) to uphold complaints against a payday loan company over its advertising claims. ACFA is calling for tougher legislation against loan sharks and a cap on interest rates. ACFA says many payday loan companies charge rates of interest that are excessive and immoral, and the ASA is right to insist that interest rates are prominently displayed… ACFA spokesman Arwyn Bailey asked: ‘Should a payday loan company be marketing their expensive solutions as the first port of call for those in debt, or who are finding it difficult to obtain credit? The ASA thinks not, and this is a welcome decision.’

Church Times

The Church of England Newspaper

LAW SOUGHT TO PROTECT CONSCIENCES

PICTURE CAPTION COMPETITION Musicians from Exeter Temple Band make themselves comfortable by the pig pennage during an engagement at a cattle market. Send your suggested captions for this picture by email to salvationist@ salvationarmy.org.uk with the subject line ‘Picture caption competition’, or by post to Salvationist, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN. A selection of the best captions will be printed in Salvationist next month.

Salvationist 9 February 2013

NEWS The General leads Commitment Sunday meetings ROMFORD GENERAL Linda Bond visited the corps on Commitment Sunday and her ministry encouraged Salvationists to make a commitment to go deeper in their relationship with God. Divisional Commander Major Norman Ord welcomed the General before the young people from the Friends of Jesus Sunday school gave their own special welcome to the international leader of The Salvation Army. General Bond spoke of her recent visit to India where thousands of Salvationists had gathered for meetings, before saying how she was pleased to be in a corps hall where she could see everyone. The Deputy Mayor and Mayoress of Havering (Councillor Eric Munday and Peggy Munday) were present and the General presented an Indian shawl to the deputy mayoress, before asking all gathered to pray for the Army in the six Indian territories. The General enrolled Chuck and Ade Echedom as soldiers (pictured). Originally from Nigeria, they moved to Romford a year ago with their young son Emmanuel and found their spiritual home at the Army. During the ceremony the couple knelt at the mercy seat to sign their covenants before the congregation enthusiastically welcomed the two ‘newest soldiers in The Salvation Army’. Chuck gave his testimony, which he began and ended by singing of his love for his lord and saviour. Following the General’s powerful message about obedience to God as ‘a personal response and a heartfelt choice’ many people went forward to kneel and sign their commitment card. Major Margaret Ord (DHQ) led the congregation in the stirring song ‘Soldiers Of Our God, Arise!’

before the songsters brought a benediction. On Sunday afternoon Salvationists from neighbouring corps, Barking and Harold Hill, and members of a local Methodist church joined the congregation. Graham Knock (Harold Hill) and Cadet Rodney Bean each testified to their experience of God’s transforming

power and his guidance in their lives. Worship throughout the day was led by corps officer Major David Evans and enriched by the home music sections and the Alove choir – a contemporary worship band from Barking. The General’s powerful preaching brought inspiration and challenge. She gave special encour-

agement to the young people present to ‘show up, stand up and sign up’ as active Salvationists in response to the Lord Jesus Christ. A final highlight of this memorable day at Romford was that General Bond stood at the door and greeted everyone personally at the conclusion of the meetings. – J. R.

Reopening ceremony attracts many CHESTER DIVISIONAL leaders Majors Mike and Lynn Highton conducted the corps hall rededication ceremony supported by the band, songsters and timbrelists. The building had undergone several months of refurbishment, leaving members without a place to worship until a nearby church allowed for worship to take place. The celebration was well attended by representatives from the business and voluntary sectors and members of the community. Bandsman Gordon Watkinson and junior soldier Daniel Carlisle are pictured cutting the ribbon with the DC. Salvationist 9 February 2013

NEWS

At Bellshill Bandmaster Ian Dickie retires after 20 years’ service Albert Sumpter from Louth celebrates his 100th birthday; he

and hands the baton over to Yvonne Ferguson; Ian is flanked by

received a book of greetings which included a message from

Major Helen Bryden and former corps officers Majors Alec and

the Queen and the territorial and divisional leaders

Andrea Still (Chatham)

NORWICH CITADEL: Members of the Sunday school, primary, YP band and singing company all contributed prayers, Bible readings, corps notices and music to the YP prizegiving meeting. Bethany Frost (cornet) and Tom Grimshaw (euphonium) played solos. – B. C. WINTON: At café church Bandmaster Richard Phillips (Kettering Citadel) presented an evening of piano music entitled Inspirations. Multimedia presentations enhanced the event, which was well attended by corps folk and members of other corps and the surrounding community. – G. T.

Alexander gives his birthday money to Edinburgh City Children from Colchester Citadel proudly display their prizes

Corps; it was used to provide

from the YP anniversary meeting

a meal for 30 homeless people

Gloucester Band makes its last visit to HMP Gloucester, which is to close; the corps has been involved in this ministry for more than 80 years 6

Salvationist 9 February 2013

NEWS The Army supports campaign to end global hunger

NORWICH CITADEL: Divisional Commander Major David Jackson led Commitment Sunday meetings. A number of corps members knelt at the mercy seat to renew their commitments. – B. C.

LONDON HUNDREDS of people gathered at Somerset House in central London to support the Enough Food For Everyone IF campaign, which urges leaders of the G8 nations to take action to end global hunger. A huge projection on the walls of Somerset House highlighted key components of global hunger: taxation, investment, land and transparency. The Salvation Army is one of more than 100 agencies working together to support the campaign to end global hunger. Many celebrities were also present to support the event, including actor Bill Nighy who signed the giant inflatable IF sign to officially begin the campaign. The event highlighted that the world produces enough food for everyone, but not everyone has enough food to eat. The IF campaign aims to make 2013 the beginning of the end for the global hunger crisis. Together, the goal is to ensure that leaders of G8 nations: O stop poor farmers being forced off their land, and begin growing crops to feed people, not fuel cars O encourage government and big companies to be honest and open about some of the things that stop people getting enough food O give enough aid to stop children dying from hunger and helping the poorest families get enough food O stop big companies dodging taxes in poor countries. – A. R. BOLTON CITADEL: As part of his walkathon raising funds to help with homelessness and anti-human trafficking projects, Andy Peddle walked from the corps hall to Bolton Wanderers’ Reebok stadium, where he was given a warm welcome by staff. – G. F.

LONDON CENTRAL: Fiftyfour people from the division gathered at Nunhead for the first Explore event for adults and Explorers for youth – programmes focused on discipleship and leadership. The event is aimed at equipping and empowering God’s people to be his Church in this generation and included discussion, Bible study, reflection, prayer, fellowship and food. – I. W. SLEAFORD: Corps officer Lieutenant Margaret Gargett led the United Service for the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity at Northgate Methodist church. The band provided accompaniment and the Rev Martin Amery (Chairman of Churches Together in Sleaford and District) gave the message and commissioned five new industrial chaplains. – N. M.

Army’s wartime relief recognised DULWICH THE Dulwich Society is placing numerous plaques across the town to commemorate residents who were killed during air raids in the Second World War. The Salvation Army is remembered in the neighbourhood for its significant contribution to the wartime relief efforts. Major David Dalziel (THQ) attended the commemoration service and is pictured with a survivor of the raids. – D. D. PENARTH: Lieutenant Emily Jordan (Ammanford) led YP annual meetings and reminded the congregation that God is able to move mountains and so they should live courageous lives for him. – C. P. Salvationist 9 February 2013

NEWS

International Headquarters bids fond farewell to Commissioners Barry and Sue Swanson IHQ THE farewell meeting for Chief of the Staff Commissioner Barry Swanson and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Sue Swanson was infused with a sense of God-inspired affection, warmth, fun and integrity that perfectly mirrored the approach of the Swansons to their service at IHQ. General Linda Bond told the congregation that the departing leaders had been ‘exceptional’ in carrying out their roles. The ground floor at IHQ was packed with headquarters employees and officers, delegates from the International College for Officers and Penge Songsters, of which Commissioner Sue Swanson has been a member while in London. Also present were former colleagues and Salvation Army leaders, including General Shaw Clifton (Retired), General John Larsson (Retired) and Commissioner Freda Larsson. The General introduced the Swansons, telling those gathered: ‘We are here because God has saved them, God has called them, God has used them and God will continue to use them.’ (They took up their new 8

Salvationist 9 February 2013

appointments, as territorial leaders of USA Eastern on 1 February.) Commissioner Lalhlimpuii gave a tribute to Commissioner Sue Swanson, describing her as a cheerful, happy and lively woman who loves prayer and making others happy. Later in the meeting, Commissioner William Cochrane spoke about her address to the 2010 World Youth Convention in Sweden. He said he had never seen God move among young people so strongly as happened after the commissioner’s honest contribution. Commissioner Swanson began her response with a humorous song about life at IHQ. She referred to the Army as a beautiful community and told how she had been ‘blessed to have been given a bigger and bigger and bigger family’ while fulfilling her role at IHQ, referring personally to many members of the IHQ family – from the international commissioners right through to Mark Guess, who faithfully collects the recycling every day. The commissioner then joined with Penge Songsters for the song ‘Christ In Me’. Commissioner Cochrane paid tribute to the stark, clear and concise approach of the Chief of the Staff. He likened the Chief to the thoughtful and idealistic title figure from Graham Greene’s The Quiet American, explaining that the ‘quietness of the character was his strength – and that describes the Chief so well’. The commissioner said that

Commissioners Barry and Sue Swanson say goodbye as they fondly remember their time at IHQ

the Chief possessed the gifts of thoughtfulness and intellectual rigour, but that he has also shown great compassion for the people who have been affected by his decisions. Above all, he concluded, the Chief has sought to ensure that ‘the mind of Christ should be known and the will of God should be done’. The General said that the Swansons have a great sense of their calling, that they have a character shaped by the Lord Jesus and that they have displayed competence in their work. She referred to the Chief as her colleague, brother and champion. Responding, the Chief of the Staff said it had been a ‘tremendous privilege to serve with two Generals’. He gave words of challenge as he explained what it means to be a follower of Jesus, committing oneself fully to Christ. He used an illustration of one of the walks he and Commissioner Sue Swanson had enjoyed in the British countryside to show the importance of following the right path and also showing others the right way too – the way to follow the Lord. Commissioner Robert Street closed the meeting in prayer, asking the Lord to open doors for a new adventure for Commissioners Barry and Sue Swanson. – K. S.

LETTERS THE ARMY IS ‘CALLED OUT’ IT would appear that Paul Jarrett of Bedford (Salvationist 26 January) is under quite a lot of misapprehensions regarding the Church and The Salvation Army. ‘Church’ in the Bible is ekklesia which is derived from the Greek words kaleo (to call), prefixed with the word ek (out), which simply means ‘the called out ones’ – people who have been called out of the world, accepted Christ as their saviour and desire to see the Kingdom of God established. The Church is not a building but the living Body of Christ in the world today – a fellowship of believers who, being indwelt by the Spirit of God, become channels for God to work through to bring people back into a right relationship with him and one another. The greatest commands are that we should love God with all our heart, mind and energy and love one another. That’s the Church. That’s The Salvation Army. Just because the world chooses to reject the Church does not mean The Salvation Army should refrain from being church in its purest form – a loving, caring, compassionate community of believers following the example of Jesus and living out the message of his love. By the power of the indwelling Christ, the Army must continue the loving, caring, compassionate work that he began. As I understand it, Paul Jarrett is completely wrong in his suggestion that in William Booth’s day the people we were called to serve didn’t want church; the truth was that the middle-class church of that day didn’t want the kind of people the Army attracted. I believe The Salvation Army is the Church as God intended it to be. If there is indeed apathy for and neglect of ‘church’, as the writer suggests, it is because the understanding of church has been spoilt by the actions of those who call themselves churchgoers. Salvationists should correct the world’s misunderstanding of what the Church is, by living the life that Christ has called them to live. Church is simply a people who have been ‘called out’ of the world and brought into Kingdom life. Church is a caring fellowship of believers, and that’s what The Salvation Army is to me.

Yes, let the Army be what God raised it to be – a place where the unchurched can find a home, within a fellowship of people who accept them just as they are but who will encourage and nurture them to be all that they can become in Christ Jesus. That’s Church! That’s The Salvation Army. Billy Cowgill, Divisional Envoy, Bradford

THE ARMY IS A CHURCH PART of me responded positively to Paul Jarrett’s letter emphasising our militant tradition, but I feel that he makes a generalisation and offers an assumption, both of which may be questioned. He deplores the increasing use of the term ‘church’ to describe Salvationist congregations, arguing that churches are unwanted by the population in general so we should continue to emphasise that we are an army. But churches are not all the same, either in ways of worship or in health and growth. Many are declining but some are growing. The media regularly refer to a decline in church-going, but my daily paper told me last year that Anglican churches in central London had seen increased attendances. Having described the widespread apathy to religion, Paul Jarrett makes the assumption that the key to evangelism is to return to the method William Booth discovered in 1878. But Booth and the early Salvationists lived in a society that glorified the armed services, which served in brief conflicts fought far from our shores and with comparatively little loss of life. That attitude changed during the First World War when the horror of modern warfare was brought home to people. This was revived during the Second World War and some of us who commenced our officer service at that time found that many were put off by military symbols and terms: ‘Salvation Army? Not for me, mate. I had enough army in the last war to last me a lifetime.’ Now it may be that public attitudes have changed again and that talking up an army would sound attractive to people, but I see no evidence for this. As the

years passed I found myself having continually to explain to people that the Army was a church. Without that, remarkable misunderstandings could occur. The sad thing about Paul Jarrett’s protest is that he seems to think we can be a church or an army – and not both. Why place them in opposition to each other? Where I have the privilege to worship there is unembarrassed reference in meetings to ‘our church’ and at the same time regular revival of old Army war songs. We can have both. David Guy, Colonel, West Wickham

THE ARMY IS DIFFERENT I ENJOYED reading Paul Jarrett’s letter headed, ‘We are an Army’. I don’t want to be in a Salvation Army that models itself on a church. I want to be in a Salvation Army that looks at what other churches are doing and does something different. That way we fill an unoccupied space and meet unmet needs. William Booth did exactly that. Booth rejected the organisation and structure of our parent church (Methodist) because it did not suit the emergent Salvation Army and it wouldn’t suit it now. Our beliefs relating to the Holy Spirit and holiness had taken shape in our practice and doctrines by 1881, before the charismatic movement began to draw attention to the neglect of teaching regarding the Holy Spirit from about 1907. Unlike some churches we do not have a problem over the place of women in the life and ministry of the Army. We have General Linda Bond, who is universally admired and respected. We have women in many positions of authority thanks to the genius of William and Catherine Booth. The essential nature of The Salvation Army is both spiritual and radical. Its goals remain the same, but the means can vary: ‘I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some’ (1 Corinthians 9:22). Cliff Howes, Harlow Salvationist 9 February 2013

REVIEW and TRAIN LINES

AN ILLUSTRATED PILGRIMAGE Lieut-Colonel Jenty Fairbank reviews The Sacred Journey by Lieut-Colonel Lucille Turfrey SELDOM have I experienced such genuine delight in a daily devotional resource as The Sacred Journey has given me. For a start, it’s a joy to handle – A5 landscape, rather than portraitshaped, its glossy cover echoing the dramatic ochre terrain loved by all devotees of Oz, with the attractive layout continuing through all 136 pages of this quality production. And that’s just the design!

During Lent 2011, Lieut-Colonel Lucille Turfrey travelled with two friends into central Australia. Well known for her artistry with pen and paintbrush in the cause of the gospel (The Sacred Journey is her ninth book) on this occasion she showed herself to be no less skilled with the camera. The outcome is a superbly illustrated eight-week pilgrimage based on the glorious song of joy found in Isaiah 35. Anyone familiar with this ‘wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them’ chapter (all quotations from King James Version) will quickly realise that to reach ‘the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads’ takes a mere ten verses. This means that each week focuses upon no more than two verses, and those verses are treated to a range of creative approaches. Each day is allocated two facing landscape-shaped pages, the right-hand one being taken up entirely by one of Lucille’s striking colour photographs. The opposite page presents her comments on that day’s theme, as suggested both by the photograph and by a matching word or phrase from that week’s portion from Isaiah 35. A sidebar offers a Prayer Path, as well as Stepping Stones (pondering points for that day) and a Pilgrims’ Pool, providing corresponding Bible readings with related discussion starters for small group studies or ongoing personal reflection. Hardly a collection of commonplace devotional platitudes to be gulped down with the morning muesli, The Sacred Journey could nevertheless transform two entire months of your daily commute by public transport – and still leave enough for weekends. The Australia Southern Territory is to be commended on such an excellent production, recognising as it does the need to make more widely known Lieut-Colonel Turfrey’s undoubted gifts in the cause of Christ’s Kingdom. O

MIND THE GAP! Major Val Mylechreest helps us keep on track FAMILIAR phrases from London Underground can now be seen on billboards, advertisements and even on T-shirts. I’m talking about those helpful warnings such as ‘Stand clear of the doors’ and ‘Mind the gap’. Nowadays, ‘Stand clear of the doors’ is a polite way of saying: ‘If there’s not enough room in the carriage then don’t 10

Salvationist 9 February 2013

The Sacred Journey is available from www.salvationarmy.org.au/supplies priced A$18

bother squeezing yourself in because the doors really won’t shut and everyone else in the carriage will get really hot and bothered.’ The interesting thing about ‘Mind the gap’ is that it has different meanings. In some stations it simply means: ‘Remember there is a slight step from the train onto the platform.’ That makes sense and is really helpful. Elsewhere, it is a gross understatement. There are some stations in London (Elephant and Castle in particular) where ‘Mind the Gap’ means there is a chasm – a giant leap between the train and the platform. I know of one person (no, not me!) who went on to the next station because they couldn’t ‘do the leap’! In life, there are gaps we have to be aware of. They can be overwhelming chasms of fear, doubt, darkness or despair, and we are encouraged to step out in

faith to cross them. We should also help other people as they step out in faith. Whether new Christians or long-term ‘weary rush-hour travellers’, we are called to help and encourage each other. We are pilgrims on the journey. There is a sad account in the Old Testament about the need for someone to stand in the gap. God says: ‘I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so that I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one’ (Ezekiel 22:30). How sad that the rebuilding was dependent on someone – anyone – minding the gap, and no one could be found. MAJOR MYLECHREEST IS ADULT AND FAMILY MINISTRIES OFFICER, THQ

FEATURE

FINANCE FIT FOR THE FUTURE Kersten Rieder finds out more about Chirp, a new initiative by Reliance Bank to keep Army finance in check and fit for mission ‘WE write too many cheques. Each one is written out, put in an envelope and posted – with the risk of delay, loss or fraud. The recipient then has to take it or send it to the bank and wait for it to be cleared before funds are available. There is a better way,’ says Reliance Bank Managing Director Trevor Smith. The bank has launched the Cheque Issue Reduction Project (Chirp) to help reduce the number of cheques written each year by Salvation Army account holders in the territory, which at present is in excess of 200,000. The project aims to eradicate the use of cheques wherever possible at Salvation Army centres in the UK on a phased basis throughout 2013. Chirp is the single most effective initiative to be taken forward by the bank and is intended to cut down on administration, reduce the risk of cheque fraud and avoid unnecessary waste of money and staff resources. Chirp is not just another project, but one that purposefully aims to reduce the burden of administration and eliminate duplication and unnecessary bureaucracy so as to ensure that administration structures are effective and efficient.

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RELIANCE BANK AIMS TO SUPPORT FIT FOR MISSION... THE NEED TO TAKE A LONG, HARD LOOK AT ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURES SO THAT THE CORE MISSION OF WINNING SOULS IS DELIVERED

In backing the project, the territorial leadership team recognised that Chirp could assist the territory in making an immediate saving of up to £300,000 a year. This considerable saving would be achieved through good stewardship by simply reducing unnecessary bank charges and postage costs. BENEFITS OF CHIRP TO CUSTOMERS

Using internet banking instead of writing cheques will mean O Lower postage costs O Reduced risk of fraud – the National Fraud Authority (NFA) reports that an estimated £1.3 billion a year is lost through fraud against the charity sector O Less time spent writing and banking cheques O Reduced paper usage and environmental impact O Easier bank reconciliations Additional benefits stem from the inward cheque clearing, as Chirp aims to reduce the levels of cheques issued by its Salvation Army customers to the same proportion as those issued by its non-Salvation Army customers. This will achieve significant savings that can then be paid to The Salvation Army through Reliance Bank’s annual Gift Aid contribution to the territory. DITCHING CHEQUES IN FAVOUR OF UP-TO-DATE CARD SERVICES

For some years Reliance Bank has offered a corporate Visa debit card. Subject to appropriate authorisation, it may be possible for some centres to use this facility with suitable limits relating to card transactions and ATM withdrawals. The way the system works is that monthly statements are issued for each cardholder to the relevant administrative department. Appropriate limits for withdrawals can be agreed on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. Through Cardsave Community Services, Reliance Bank is now able to offer the facility to accept payment by debit and credit card. This means that Salvation Army centres throughout the UK can obtain payment terminals for use in charity shops and at centres for such things as public donations, personal giving and payments for Army events. As from the beginning of 2013, Banking Services Manager Andrew Hunt, supported by Project Co-ordinator Jan Johnson, will be contacting THQ departments, divisional directors for business administration, corps and centres to introduce revised payment procedures. The planned phasing will mean that centres issuing larger volumes of cheques will be the first priority. O

For more information about Chirp and Reliance Bank services call 020 7398 5400 or email info@reliancebankltd.com

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Reliance Bank aims to support Fit for Mission – a direction for the territory launched by former Territorial Commander, Commissioner André Cox – which highlights the need to take a long, hard look at administrative structures so that the core mission of winning souls is delivered. This process is set to continue with newly appointed Territorial Commander, Commissioner Clive Adams.

KERSTEN IS EDITORIAL ASSISTANT, SALVATIONIST Salvationist 9 February 2013

FEATURE

Blood on the flag

Claire Anderson speaks with Major Nigel Bovey about his fascination with the Skeleton Army

LTHOUGH there is talk that some UK Christians are facing persecution today, it seems to me it is nowhere near the scale of persecution, violence and threat faced week in, week out by Salvationists in the 1880s,’ War Cry Editor Major Nigel Bovey muses. This reflection comes as Major Bovey begins digging into the Army archives and chasing down corps histories to create a fuller picture of the history of the Skeleton Army and the persecution faced by The Salvation Army at its hands in the 19th century. He shares: ‘Growing up at Exeter Temple, I remember there was a picture of Salvationists who were imprisoned in Exeter after civil disturbances with the Skeleton Army. The first corps flag is stained with blood – whether that blood is from a Skeleton, a policeman or a Salvationist we don’t know, but it certainly illustrates that the corps was born in the crucible of the Skeleton battles.’ Major Bovey’s fascination with the Skeletons was piqued when – researching his latest book, The Mercy Seat Revisited d – he stumbled across a front cover of a Skeleton Army

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magazine. ‘Here was a movement purposely set up to destroy The Salvation Army, and even went so far as to have a pseudo War Cry to rally their troops!’ he explains. ‘As the Editor of The War Cry, I wanted to know what these people were about.’ Major Bovey’s initial research has already unearthed snippets of exciting stories of Salvationists standing strong against the Skeletons. He says: ‘These ordinary people would never describe themselves as heroes but they were just that because they persevered

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HERE WAS A MOVEMENT PURPOSELY SET UP TO DESTROY THE SALVATION ARMY, AND EVEN WENT SO FAR AS TO HAVE A PSEUDO WAR CRY TO RALLY THEIR TROOPS!

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THE FIRST CORPS FLAG IS STAINED WITH BLOOD – WHETHER THAT BLOOD IS FROM A SKELETON, A POLICEMAN OR A SALVATIONIST WE DON’T KNOW, BUT IT CERTAINLY ILLUSTRATES THAT THE CORPS WAS BORN IN THE CRUCIBLE OF THE SKELETON BATTLES

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even though they knew that when they left their houses for the hall in uniform, they were likely to be verbally abused or beaten up.’

The original Exeter corps flag of 1881

The Skeleton riot at Worthing

However, these stories are the bare bones of the Skeleton Army’s history. Now Nigel wants to add flesh to the bones. Soon the Army will celebrate its 150th anniversary with an international congress; there has never been a better time to reflect on the impact the Skeleton Army could have had if its members had been successful. The living history of the Skeletons is also vanishing fast. Major Bovey hopes that corps, Salvationists and friends across the territory can help furnish him with corps histories or direct him to references in local archives to the skirmishes between the two armies. Now aware the Skeletons had their own publication – believed to be founded and printed in Devon – he also asks anyone with access to Skeleton Army literature to make contact. Each jigsaw puzzle piece of the Skeletons’ history along with their contact with the Army will enhance the final history and inform the next generation of Salvationists. Major Bovey concludes: ‘In 2015 The Salvation Army will celebrate its 150th anniversary. Had Salvationists

given in to the violence, persecution and fear instilled by the Skeletons, the Movement would not have lasted 150 days. ‘I believe that looking at the price Salvationists paid in starting The Salvation Army, not only in this territory but throughout the world, will be very instructive to all Salvationists.’ O

Major Bovey can be contacted by email (nigel.bovey @salvationarmy.org.uk) or write to him c/o The War Cry, The Salvation Army, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN.

CLAIRE IS CORPS COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, THQ Salvationist 9 February 2013

VIEWPOINT

LESSONS TO BE LEARNT Adrian Lyons offers a personal reflection on parallels and contrasts between a day job and corps involvement THERE are a lot of really good schools in this country; it is worth remembering that, according to Ofsted, a large majority of schools are good or outstanding. The problem is that around 30 per cent are just not good enough. They require improvement because every pupil is entitled to a good education. In a few cases, the education provided by the school is inadequate. We know that schools can improve markedly. The quality of schools in London, for example, has been transformed in the past few years so that, overall, London schools have moved from being regarded as some of the worst in the country to some of the best. We also know how schools improve and we know the characteristics shared by successful schools. ‘Determined and resolute leadership from the head teacher is crucial to improving schools that require improvement. Those head teachers with a successful track record of leading schools from being judged “satisfactory” to becoming good or better,

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LONDON SCHOOLS HAVE MOVED FROM BEING REGARDED AS SOME OF THE WORST IN THE COUNTRY TO SOME OF THE BEST

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share some common leadership characteristics. They are absolutely clear that improving teaching and learning is at the heart of what needs to be done, they communicate their high expectations of staff and pupils effectively and they lead by example, modelling the behaviour they want from their staff.’ (Getting To Good, Ofsted 2012). Perhaps this could translate to: Determined and resolute leadership is crucial to improving corps that require improvement. Those leaders with a successful track record of leading corps from being judged ‘satisfactory’ to becoming good or better, share some common leadership characteristics. They are absolutely clear that improving the core activity of ‘saving souls, growing saints and serving suffering humanity’ is at the heart of what needs to be done, they communicate their high expectations of corps members effectively and they lead by example, modelling the behaviour they want from their members. 14

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The Ofsted report about how schools become good continues: ‘These heads refuse to be distracted from their core purpose of school improvement and take decisive steps to ensure that their vision is not compromised by weak teaching or poor leadership within the school. No excuse for mediocrity is acceptable.’ Given what we know about William Booth’s management style, it is clear that he expected his officers to deliver growth. In successful schools we find that the staff have high expectations of their pupils and the pupils themselves have high aspirations for what they can achieve.

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GIVEN WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT WILLIAM BOOTH’S MANAGEMENT STYLE, IT IS CLEAR THAT HE EXPECTED HIS OFFICERS TO DELIVER GROWTH

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One often-cited example, but by no means an isolated case, is Mossbourne Academy in Hackney. Its last inspection report explains how pupils, from one of the most socially and economically disadvantaged areas of the country and with low attainment on entry, leave the school with among the highest results in the country. The academy’s former principal, Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector Sir Michael Wilshaw, is just as proud of the fact that despite the summer 2011 riots taking place around the school, its pupils were not involved. By contrast to the challenge and high expectations found in successful schools, the old phrase ‘anything for Jesus’ seems too often to be misinterpreted as ‘anything will do’ for Jesus. There are many areas of corps life where this may apply but music is the most obviously visible and, indeed, audible example. Some bands really do exemplify the motto of ‘the best for the highest’. However, how many bands really work hard to produce music that will attract through its brilliance or grab the congregation so that they are compelled by the message? Too often there are calls to play music that is within the comfort zone of players who have done little more than master the basics of producing notes. Too often in The Salvation Army, the right to participation in a section has been elevated above any consideration of the overall impact on the listener. The mission we are called to as Salvationists is far too important for a celebration of the mediocre. Let us raise our aspirations, increase our expectations, take things much more seriously and, as with successful schools, have confidence that we can do better.

ADRIAN IS BANDMASTER AT COLCHESTER CITADEL

BIBLE STUDY

Glimpses of God Canon David Winter begins this York Course series for Lent with The God Who Hears Our Cry

N 2010 a terrible earthquake hit Haiti. More than 200,000 people were killed and millions made homeless. As the extent of the disaster became known, questions were asked. The scientists asked how had it happened and how could their research help avoid or minimise future disasters? The relief agencies asked what could they do to meet the needs of a traumatised people, feed the hungry, restore water supplies and care for the injured? Millions of ordinary people simply asked why, in a world that Christians see as created by a loving God, do such appalling disasters happen to innocent people? WHERE IS GOD WHEN WE NEED HIM? Was God unable to help when the earthquake struck Haiti? Did he not care? Or did a cruel and vengeful God actually cause the earthquake in order to ‘teach us a lesson’? Strangely, the people of Haiti themselves didn’t see things in any of these ways. Thousands thronged the streets for open-air masses. Faith seemed to flourish in that place of suffering, suggesting that the answer to our question is: ‘Right there, among the collapsing buildings.’ SUFFERING ISN’T PUNISHMENT Jesus directly contradicted the idea that God actually causes human suffering to teach us a lesson. Eighteen people were killed in Jerusalem when a tower collapsed. ‘Were those who suffered worse people than others?’ he asked (see Luke 13:4), and answered himself with an emphatic ‘No’. Similarly, when asked if sin – his or his parents’ – had caused a man to be blind from birth, the answer was again categorical: ‘Neither’ (John 9:3). Suffering is not sent by God. It isn’t punishment, nor necessarily the result of sin.

Of course, some suffering is the consequence of sin – war, oppression, torture, murder, cruelty, exploitation – but much is simply the result of being human and living on an unpredictable planet. The unfortunate 18 happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. The tower fell because sometimes towers fall down.

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GOD WOULD SUPPLY STRENGTH, VISION AND GUIDANCE, BUT PEOPLE WOULD BE HIS AGENTS OF BLESSING

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But that does not mean that God is indifferent to human suffering. The story of the burning bush (Exodus 3:1–4 and 17) makes this point very powerfully. The Israelites had suffered for many years as slaves in Egypt and doubtless often prayed about their plight to the God of their ancestors. Although a Jew, Moses grew up in the Egyptian royal household (Exodus 2:1–10). But after killing an Egyptian taskmaster who was beating a Hebrew slave, Moses fled to the Midian desert. Eventually – while shepherding his father-in-law’s sheep near Mount Sinai – he saw a bush burning but not being consumed. Intrigued, he drew near and was then engaged in a dialogue with God himself. Yes, God had heard the prayers of the Hebrew slaves. He knew about their suffering and was about to act to rescue them – and Moses was to be his agent (Exodus 3:10). This wasn’t quite how Moses had seen

it! Suddenly the rescue operation involved him. God promised he would be with him, but Moses’ role was crucial. God would accept no excuses – and there were plenty. The last, and most pathetic was: ‘Please send someone else!’ (Exodus 4:13). Eventually – after many adventures, setbacks and some miraculous interventions by God – Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt on their long journey to Canaan. GOD’S HUMAN AGENTS OF BLESSING This story offers answers to such questions as: Does God hear our prayers? Is he actually able to do anything about them? And what part does he expect us to play in answering them? Most don’t expect God to suspend the laws of nature, but we do expect a loving God to care about the victims of floods and earthquakes. In the burning bush story, there is no doubt about God’s concern (Exodus 3:7). What Moses discovered was God’s habitual way of meeting needs. The problem was human. Let humans – called, supported and enabled by God – provide the answer. God would supply strength, vision and guidance, but people would be his agents of blessing. Good wishes and even prayers are not enough if we – God’s people – decline to be part of the practical answer to human suffering.

CANON WINTER IS AN AUTHOR AND A FORMER HEAD OF RELIGIOUS BROADCASTING AT THE BBC Salvationist 9 February 2013

NEW COMMITMENTS

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1. LYNDA ZACHAREK Soldier SHREWSBURY LYNDA had lost contact with the Army for a number of years, but returned two years ago when invited to a reunion celebration. She immediately felt it was where God wanted her to be. Lynda was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Joy Norman and testified that God can and will use her again. – J. N. 2. BRIAN SAMPSON Soldier SUDBURY BRIAN admitted his decision to become a soldier was influenced by two women: his wife Jill, as she has prayed for him to make a commitment for 43 years, and General Linda Bond at the ‘I’ll Fight!’ Congress. Brian was enrolled by Chief Secretary Colonel David Hinton. – J. C.

3. NAN HENDERSON Soldier BRECHIN AFTER spending some time in her native South Korea, Nan returned to Brechin and felt God was leading her to something new. She accepted an invitation to the corps and after a short while became an adherent member. It soon became clear that the Lord desired a further commitment into soldiership and Nan was enrolled by corps officer Major Yvonne Findlay. – B. F. 4. MATTHEW FOXALL Soldier WORCESTER MANY people came to support Matthew as corps officer Captain Carole Donaldson enrolled him as a soldier. Matthew’s brother-in-law, Jonathan, led worship and the congregation was encouraged to think about the covenants they signed and reminded that it is faith in God that upholds them. At the end of the meeting, corps folk were invited to surround Matthew physically and in prayer as they listened to ‘I’m In His Hands’. – A. W.

5. & 6. IRENE PARKINSON, BILL WILSON Adherent members PRESTON HAVING enrolled on a computer course offered by the corps, Irene began to attend meetings. She then invited Bill to go along. Both are now active members of the corps and in various aspects of community service and decided to make a firm commitment. Corps officer Captain Alex Cadogan welcomed Irene and Bill into the fellowship as adherent members. – A. F. 7. & 8. ANITA ADEGA, NATASHA CHELGAT, CARLY WILSON Junior soldiers DUNSTABLE CARLY and twins Anita and Natasha were enrolled as junior soldiers by corps officer Major Carol Evans. Anita testified that she wants people to know Jesus loves her and she loves him. Natasha knows that Jesus died for her and that is why she loves him and Carly said she wants to be a junior soldier because people will know that she loves Jesus. – J. B. 9. JESS GARRY Adherent member PETERSFIELD CORPS members recall how Jess used to wave from her home across the road from the hall each Sunday morning. After attending the Churches Together holiday club, Jess joined the Sunday school and became a junior soldier; she has regularly attended since and testified that God was always with her, guiding her. She was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Captain Linda Read. – R. F.

10. CASPER DAVID Junior soldier GLOUCESTER CASPER, whose parents Sheeba and Wesley were members of the Army in India before moving to the UK, has been attending the corps since birth. He expressed his wish to become a junior soldier and was enrolled by corps officer Major Adrian Allman. – S. M. 11. ALEX LEASK Adherent member HOVE ALEX was first introduced to the Army through a vocal group she was part of that regularly sang at the over-60 club. Years later, one of the corps members, Ally, invited her to Sunday worship. Alex felt so at home at the corps that she decided the Army was for her. During a visit from the corps officers, she decided to commit to adherent membership. Alex chose the song ‘O God, Our Help In Ages Past’ as she was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officers Captains Doug and Michelle Hayter. The corps officers and Ally are pictured with Alex. – M. H. 12. REBECCA HAY Soldier GOVAN FAMILY and friends supported Rebecca during her enrolment on Commitment Sunday. She testified to God’s leading in her life and her desire to follow his direction. She was enrolled by corps officers Majors Rita and Robert Pearce. – M. W.

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13. ELVIRE MAVUSI MATU, MARTINA CHIMUSORO, CONSTANCE TARIMA Soldiers BARKING HAVING previously been junior soldiers, Elvire and Martina decided to make a further commitment, along with Constance who had been an adherent member. The women are pictured with corps officer Major Nigel Schultz, who enrolled them as soldiers. – N. S. Salvationist 9 February 2013

ANNOUNCEMENTS ARMY PEOPLE WEDDING ANNIVERSARY Golden: O Majors James and Helen Bryden (23 February) DEDICATED TO GOD O Isabel Elizabeth, daughter of Neil and Anne Gallagher, at North Shields by Major Yvonne Dare BEREAVED Rhodes, Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls, of his wife Carol, Major Sarah Murray, Norwich Mile Cross, Louise Pallister and Rachael Rhodes, both Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls, of their mother O Terry Wilkins, Winton, of his wife CCMS Pauline Wilkins O CPR Chris Parr, Penarth, of her mother Evelyn Duckstein O HLS Val Sheppard, Stapleford, of her mother Gladys Mills O Irene Dawson, Edinburgh Gorgie, of her father Brigadier Robert Sloan O Gail Roebuck of her husband BM Stephen Roebuck, Hannah Wainwright, Sarah Nicholson and Bethany Roebuck, all Castleford, of O Jeffrey

their father, Margaret Roebuck of her son, Carol Lane of her brother, both Rotherham O S/Sgt Anne Mason, Abertillery, of her husband Rtd SL Howard Mason RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations: O Mrs Major Irene Bartlett (90 on 17 February) O Major Brenda Sparkes (80 on 19 February) PROMOTED TO GLORY Mrs Agnes Thompson from Kilmarnock on 26 January O Brigadier Robert Sloan from Edinburgh on 29 January O Roy Parker, Sunderland Monkwearmouth O Major

TRIBUTES MRS ROSE ANDREWS, TAVISTOCK ROSE was born in 1917 in Ashington, Northumberland, to staunch Salvationist parents. She met Jim at the grocery shop where she worked. They

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL LINDA BOND: O Nepal (South Asia Zonal Conference), Tu 5 Feb - Mon 11 O UK, Regent Hall (welcome and installation of territorial leaders), Sat 16 O ICO, Sun 17 O Korea, Tu 19 - Wed 27 O UK, Bedford, Sat Sun 3 Mar O Sweden, Fri 8 - Mon 11 THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER ANDRÉ COX) AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: O Finland and Estonia (installation of territorial leaders), Fri 8 Feb - Sun 10 O ICO, Tu 19 O Kenya West (installation of territorial leaders), Th 28 - Mon 4 Mar O Denmark (installation of territorial leaders), Sat Sun 10 THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER CLIVE ADAMS) AND COMMISSIONER MARIANNE ADAMS: O Regent Hall (welcome and installation), Sat 16 Feb THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL DAVID HINTON) AND COLONEL SYLVIA HINTON: O Reading Central, Sun 10 Feb O Regent Hall (welcome and installation of territorial leaders), Sat 16 O London Central (installation of Divisional Commander), Sun 17 O Pentre, Sat Sun 24 O William Booth College (spiritual day), Th 28 O William Booth College (Exploring Leadership Day), Sun 3 Mar O Social Services Conference, Mon 4 COMMISSIONERS TORBEN AND DEISE ELIASEN: O Latin America North and South America West, Fri 22 Feb - Th 7 Mar COMMISSIONERS LALKIAMLOVA AND LALHLIMPUII: O Nepal (South Asia Zonal Conference), Mon 4 Feb - Mon 11 COMMISSIONERS ROBERT AND JANET STREET: O Greenland (official opening), Th 7 Feb - Tu 12 O Spain (amalgamation of Spain and Portugal Commands), Sat Sun 17 O UK, Hemel Hempstead (retirement), Sat 23 INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS: O Risca, Sat Sun 10 Feb O Regent Hall (welcome and installation of territorial leaders), Sat 16

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married after the war when he returned from a Japanese PoW camp. The family moved to Peterborough in 1963 and then to Luton, where Rose became an enthusiastic member at Luton Citadel. She played the piano for the home league when required and was a songster. She also loved going to the Butlin’s Army Week. Her involvement grew after her husband’s death in 1975 with playing piano for the ladies’ fellowship and leading a singing group. Moving to Tavistock to be near her daughter and granddaughter, Rose attended as often as possible until her health deteriorated. – S. M.

BANDSMAN SETH MARPER, STOCKTON SETH was born in Mosborough in 1922 to Salvationist parents. In 1959 he and his wife Betty moved to the Rhondda Valley, South Wales, where Seth worked at the Army’s House o’ the Trees Boys’ Home. During that time he trained and qualified as a chiropodist. In 1961 he was appointed to Spa Road Men’s Hostel in London and later spent time in Haverhill and Hartlepool. He moved to Nottingham in retirement. In 1999 the family moved to Stockton-on-Tees, where Seth was a bandsman. He leaves his wife, their five children – Andrew, Paul, Sandra, Stewart and Karl – seven grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren. – N. S.

NEW YEAR QUIZ WINNERS A BIG thank you to all entrants who took up the challenge of the New Year Quiz compiled by Major Philippa Smale (Germany and Lithuania). Salvationist congratulates Ruth Pentney, Bellshill, who was overall winner with the tiebreaker: ‘Salvationist is essential reading for me because it informs, it teaches and it gives food for thought.’ The five runners-up were Jeannette Parkes, Morecambe; Margaret Anderson, Barry; Niall Marshallsay, Bournemouth; Arthur Thompson, Worthing; Bram Taylor, Jarrow Courtesy of SP&S, each of the above wins two CDs: Fire In The Blood by the International Staff Band and In The Name Of The Lord by the International Staff Songsters.