Salvationist 9 March 2019

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www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist 9 March 2019

EXCELLENCE AND AUTHENTICITY at TYB and TYC

T CONTENTS

Quotes from the media

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News

4 to 7

Feature I Lent resources Lent focus

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by Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts

News feature Territorial Youth Band and Territorial Youth Choir

8 and 9

Interview 10 and 11 Surely that’s a blessing!

Jessica Green talks to Shanelle Manderson

Feature I Helping-hand appeal Community Shares 12 and 13

by Hayley Still

Lent reflection The words from the cross

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by Major John Waters

Light Bites Immersed in the book

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by Major Peter Mylechreest

Review Good News Bible: The Youth Edition

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reviewed by Mia Laird, Heidi Lloyd-Jones and Eleanor Musuele

Bible study Family in Christ Jesus

16 and 17

by Major Valerie Mylechreest

Through the week with Salvationist 16 and 17

by Major Melvyn Knott

New commitments

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Letters

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Announcements Adverts

THIS week Salvationist highlights the 2019 helping-hand appeal, in which corps and family ministries groups across the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland will raise money to support The Salvation Army’s international income-generation projects through the Community Shares scheme.

Hayley Still introduces the scheme in her article on pages 12 and 13 and uses a striking phrase while describing the struggles of people living in the urban slums of Nairobi, Kenya: ‘Together they are pursuing life as it could be.’ This positive attitude in a place where every day brings a struggle for survival is inspirational, and deserves our support.

Inspirational was also the word that came to mind when I read Shanelle Manderson’s interview with Jessica Green, which is on pages 10 and 11.

Jessica was shocked by the diagnosis she received when she was 22 years old and looking forward to a fulfilling and purposeful life in education.

Her doctor told her: ‘You have a brain tumour.’

As you read Jessica’s story, perhaps, like me, you will be struck by her assertion: ‘I’m always told I do too much because I just get on as if there’s nothing wrong with me.’ Is that not also ‘pursuing life as it could be’?

Whether it’s struggling to make a living in a part of the world where life is harsh and squalid, or it’s fighting to maintain a positive outlook when illness strikes, the Christian has the faith to believe that greater forces are at work in even the bleakest situations.

After all, life in all its fullness is the promise Christ made. And, as we progress on our Lenten journey to prepare again for the miracle of Easter, Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts continues her series entitled Lent Focus, reminding us that this is a time for repentance and reflection – and for rededicating ourselves to God. The Lent Focus is taken from Prayer Matters, January to April 2019, and includes the words of Jesus: ‘Human beings cannot live on bread alone, but need every word that God speaks’ (Matthew 4:4 Good News Translation).

We believe God speaks clearly to us through the Bible, but he also speaks through the lives of people endeavouring to make the most of their life opportunities. So, if you can, get involved with the helpinghand appeal in some way, even if it’s just making a monetary donation, and also look out for those who are struggling with a difficult situation that might not be obvious to you. Not all illnesses and health struggles are plain to see.

And remember, life really is more than mere survival.

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The Salvation Army and me featuring Daniel Simmons

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

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MORE THAN MERE SURVIVAL

Salvationist 9 March 2019

From the Managing Editor, Stephen Pearson

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QUOTES FROM THE MEDIA

MESSY CHURCHES PROVEN TO BE EFFECTIVE IN NEW REPORT

A new report from Church Army and the Archbishops’ Council shows how Messy Churches are effective in helping people grow as disciples. Begun in 2004 by founder Lucy Moore, Messy Church has since grown into a national phenomenon as a popular, practical model for local churches engaging in mission. There are currently more than 2,800 Messy Churches registered in England – including many Methodist ones – and nearly 1,200 more in up to 40 countries.

The report, Playfully Serious, is a summary of a two-year research project.

Director of research at Church Army Dr Tim Ling said: ‘The stereotype of Messy Church as “just a bit of family fun” doesn’t do justice to the real changes that have been happening regarding Messy Church and mission.’

The Methodist Recorder

SCRATCHCARD SALES TO UNDER-18s SHOULD BE BANNED, SAYS MINISTER People aged 16 or 17 could be banned from buying scratchcards under plans being discussed in Whitehall.

The sports minister, Mims Davies, told The House magazine she wanted to change the law so

under-18s could not gamble. That would include scratchcards, as well as national lottery draws, which are currently available to anyone over 16.

‘We need to be very clear that gambling starts at 18… It’s not to stop people from having fun, but it’s to protect those most vulnerable people. That’s where the government needs to step in,’ she told the magazine.

The Guardian

SCOTLAND MUST HAVE A NET ZERO CARBON EMISSIONS ECONOMY BY 2050 Scottish legislators have been urged to commit to delivering a net zero carbon emissions economy by 2050 at the ‘very latest’.

The challenge was issued by the Right Rev Susan Brown, Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, who said the nation must be at the forefront of the ethical and political fight to tackle climate change.

She said a ‘more ambitious’ target was needed because climate justice was one of the defining challenges of the age and the greatest impact of rising temperatures is felt by the poorest people in the world.

Mrs Brown described the situation facing the planet as an emergency but said it was also an opportunity for Scotland to take the lead, update the Climate Change Bill and ‘readdress injustice and fight poverty’.

She made the remarks in front of MSPs at a climate justice coffee morning at the Scottish Storytelling Centre in Edinburgh.

Church of Scotland News

BRITAIN’S MOST POVERTY-HIT AREAS HAVE NINE TIMES GREATER RATE OF HOMELESS DEATHS, FIGURES SHOW Britain’s most poverty-afflicted areas have nine times the rate of deaths among homeless people than its most affluent, according to new statistics that for the first time reveal the places in the country that are worst affected.

Data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show 574 homeless people were recorded to have died in urban areas in 2017, compared with just 26 in rural areas.

Manchester was worst hit, with 21 deaths recorded over the 12-month period, while Birmingham and Lambeth suffered

SALVATIONIST (tel) 020 7367 4890 (email) salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist EDITOR Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts – (tel) 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891 EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Shanelle Manderson – (tel) 020 7367 4894 Simon Hope – (tel) 020 7367 4892 Major Tony Button – (tel) 020 7367 4887 Major Margaret Bovey DTP DESIGNER Hannah Holden – (tel) 020 7367 4883 GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mark Knight – (tel) 020 7367 4895 Louise Phillips – (tel) 020 7367 4896 PROOFREADER Chris Horne

18 and 17, respectively. Campaigners said the figures highlighted that in order to reduce the number of homeless deaths, ‘root causes’ – such as access to housing, mental health support and drug and alcohol services – must be tackled…

It comes after the first ever government figures to track homeless deaths revealed a 24 per cent increase over the past five years, with nearly 600 homeless people dying last year in England and Wales.

The Independent

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THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Brian Peddle TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner Anthony Cotterill SECRETARY FOR COMMUNICATIONS Lieut-Colonel David Kelly

Salvationist 9 March 2019

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NEWS

Salvation Army helps workers made redundant SHOTTS WHEN more than 150 workers were made redundant, and left with no wages for the month of December, company chiefs said there was no money to pay them and they should claim statutory redundancy pay. However, as no reference number had been supplied, this was not possible.

Corps officer Lieutenant Amy-Jo Battersby (pictured) said: ‘It was just two days after Christmas. We had just supported more than 100 children through the Christmas present appeal and I was looking forward to enjoying some time off. When I drove past the factory there were scenes of chaos, with people being led away in tears.’

Corps members met with the lieutenant to discuss how they could help those affected. As the corps had some laptops and internet at the hall it was decided to invite people to attend and use these to apply for jobs and benefits. The invitation was sent out through social media and 70 people were waiting to enter on the first day when the doors opened. Suddenly they had found a place where they could go and receive help.

Representatives from recruiting agencies, the Scottish government through its Pace (partnership action for continuing employment) programme and the Department for Work and Pensions joined benefits and employment rights advisers, MSPs, MPs and councillors to help. Network Rail and the Cornerstone food bank provided food and refreshments.

‘It was an incredible community response and we just provided a central point of contact. After two days, 115 people had attended,’ said Lieutenant Amy-Jo. ‘The agencies worked hard and effectively in helping. People left with jobs, advice on how to claim universal credit and one young man, who wasn’t entitled to any benefits, had an offer of an apprenticeship.’

Many people were angry and felt that, up until this time, their concerns hadn’t been listened to, so for them to speak with politicians, councillors and community council members was helpful.

They finally felt listened to, there was a lot more hope and people were smiling again as they joined with ex-colleagues.

Amy-Jo said: ‘It would have taken these people weeks to get round all the agencies but we were able to help them achieve that in one place and within a

SOUTH SHIELDS: A large number of visitors attended the 20th annual model railway exhibition. The event raised £2,600 over two days for the corps. Pictured are two of the organisers, Bandmaster John Mitchell and Gordon Miles. – A. B. 4

Salvationist 9 March 2019

few hours. It shows that Shotts has a strong sense of community.

We were already known for our community work, but this has

raised our profile even further.’

Amy-Jo praised the work of the corps members who made themselves available to help. – M. D.

Corps officer Major John Ager transfers Sidney Lamming to the band and songsters reserves after 59 years of service in both sections, initially at Newcastle Byker, and then for many years at Wallsend; also pictured are acting Bandmaster Kevin Murphy and acting Songster Leader Avril Cockburn

Divisional Envoy Ruth Barlow leads the Lymington United service in the parish church; Ringwood Band assisted the Lymington musicians in accompanying the singing and provided music after the service

No long faces at YP weekend

from the previous day. He reminded the congregation of the importance of knowing God’s plan for each person, and encouraged worship with no long faces. Jonathan is pictured with members of the congregation, who were encouraged to pull some funny faces. – M. S.

A FULL day of creative arts activities started the young people’s weekend, with workshops in brass, vocal and samba interspersed with worship time, fun activities and united

singing led by the guest for the weekend Deputy Songster Leader Jonathan Searle (Boscombe). An evening concert featured the young people, some new to the Army invited by their friends.

Jonathan led Sunday worship featuring the YP sections, and including the samba group

Ian Johnston receives a long-service award and certificate recognising 40 years of unbroken service as songster leader at Carlisle; presenting the certificate is corps officer Captain Stephen Scoulding

DROITWICH SPA: When Enabled (formerly Safe) was launched, Major Jenny Forman (DHQ) led a day of fellowship. Music Man workshops were held throughout the day, and a craft session in the afternoon. The event was well attended and Enabled member Yolanda Coulter said: ‘It was really well received and enjoyed by all.’ Four Enabled meetings are scheduled for each year and the next one will be a barbecue. – C. S.

BELLSHILL

BOSTON: Food preparation company Cucina Sano chose the corps to be its charity of the year. This has proved beneficial as the company has supplied food for people experiencing homelessness and for other people who are vulnerable. Jane Forsythe, the human relations business partner, organised a team from the company to help with the Christmas toy appeal and staff raised £2,560 through making cakes and other sales. Corps officer Major Gerald Nicoll is pictured with Karen Johnson, head of the employee group. – G. N. Vera Jones receives acknowledgement for all the work carried out and cakes made for Isle of Wight Corps

Please do not send your copy to any individual’s email address as this could delay publication. Copy should be sent to salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

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NEWS

Bathgate Brass Band at 133rd corps anniversary PARKHEAD BATHGATE Brass Band and guest euphonium soloist Steven Mead started the anniversary weekend with a concert on Saturday evening. Steven contributed ‘The Better World’ in a programme that included a trombone trio from members of

Bathgate Brass Band and a euphonium duet by Misa and Steven Mead. The songsters contributed ‘I’ve Been Changed’ and, after a time of devotion, Bathgate Brass Band played ‘The Light Of The World’.

Commissioner Keith Banks led the Sunday meeting, testimony was shared and Steven, accompanied by Parkhead Band, played ‘Gabriel’s Oboe’.

A bandsman knelt in rededication. – A. D.

STAPLE HILL: The hall was packed when people from the community shared in An Evening With Charlie Green. Charlie sang a variety of numbers, including ‘Jesus Loves Me’ and ‘What A Friend’, and spoke of his Christian faith, how he developed his career in music, starting with his early experiences on Britain’s Got Talent, and his hopes and aspirations for the future. – V. W.

BARROW-IN-FURNESS: Volunteers from the corps were treated to a thank-you meal by the Furness Motor Group in recognition of their work in the community. Twenty-one volunteers and staff were hosted by the Duke of Edinburgh Hotel and were thanked by corps officer Captain Martin Davison for their servant ministry to the community. The volunteers play a vital role in welcoming and serving customers and clients in the community hub, which opens seven days a week. – M. D.

The Salvation Army responds to record rainfall AUSTRALIA THE Salvation Army is responding after severe rain caused major flooding in northern Queensland. In the coastal city of Townsville, the monsoon downpour amounted to more than one metre of rainfall, more than 20 times the average for the time of year.

Once the rainfall stopped, The Salvation Army’s Outback Flying Service chaplains assessed damage across a vast rural area and spoke to farmers who had suffered flooding inundation, stock losses and in some cases were unable even to leave their homes.

Meanwhile, in Townsville, Salvation Army Emergency Service volunteers distributed fresh bread, fruit and vegetables to people hard hit by the floods and who were busy clearing out destroyed goods.

Five specially opened hubs have been assisting hundreds of residents with immediate financial support through cash and gift cards. Teams are also providing a listening ear, emotional support and encouragement to people. – S. W./L. M. 6

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NORWICH CITADEL: A Valentine’s Day evening meal was held for 40 couples, starting with a three-course meal. Corps officers Majors Andrea and Mark Sawyer led a time of teaching with the theme Marriage Rocks. At the end of the special evening each couple received a marriage blessing, and a marriage enrichment course was launched. – M. S.

FEATURE Lent resources

LENT FOCUS

by Secretary for Spiritual Life Development Lieut-Colonel Jayne Roberts

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URING the weeks of Lent you

are invited to pray with Scripture, to meditate on God’s word and seek to apply the daily text personally.

MAIDSTONE: Romanian pianist Leona Crasi was the guest soloist at the salvation praise meeting, thrilling the congregation with her playing of a variety of pieces by Bartók, Beethoven, Chopin and Scarlatti. The congregational songs and contributions from the band and songsters all emphasised God’s constant love that fills us with joy. Corps officer Captain Jon Rouffet reminded the congregation to ‘Be still, and know that I am God’ (Psalm 46:10) and spoke of the need to remain open to the transforming and renewing power of God. – G. P.

Salvation Army assists communities as they recover from Cyclone Desmond MOZAMBIQUE CYCLONE Desmond hit parts of central Mozambique in January causing severe damage and leading to 120,000 people being displaced from their homes. The Salvation Army’s emergency response is concentrated on one of the most affected areas, Ndunda in Beira, where homes were destroyed and some completely swept away by the flood.

Evacuation centres have been opened in Beira city but, with other organisations, the Army has identified more than 350 families in particular need.

In the first instance, emergency food parcels, including maize meal, rice, oil, beans, salt and sugar as well as other essential items, have been distributed. This ensures that two nutritious meals a day will be possible for the 1,775 people supplied.

Mosquito nets, buckets and water-purifying chemicals have been provided through the multi-agency response. Recipients have been identified in consultation with community leaders. Care is also being taken to provide people with information about disaster preparedness and mitigation. – B. V.

REPENTANCE Sunday 10 March ‘Return to the Lord, and let this prayer be your offering to him: “Forgive all our sins and accept our prayer, and we will praise you as we have promised” (Hosea 14:2 Good News Translation).

Be encouraged today that your prayer is an offering to God and a process that leads to praise in a covenant relationship with him.

Monday 11 March ‘Return to the Lord, and let this prayer be your offering to him: “Forgive all our sins and accept our prayer, and we will praise you as we have promised” (Hosea 14:2 GNT).

Take time today to remember promises that you have made to God and praise him for the people who have influenced your spiritual journey thus far.

Tuesday 12 March ‘Help us, God our Saviour, for the glory of your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for your name’s sake’ (Psalm 79:9).

As these days, on the theme of repentance, conclude, embrace God’s forgiveness and love. How might your life reflect the glory of his name at this season of new beginnings?

TEMPTATION Wednesday 13 March ‘Then the Spirit led Jesus into the desert to be tempted by the Devil’ (Matthew 4:1 GNT).

For the next week the focus is on Jesus at the beginning of his ministry when he was led into the desert for 40 days. It is incredible to think that the purpose of this desert experience

was to face temptation! Ask God to show you what you can learn about yourself as you consider this theme.

Thursday 14 March ‘After spending 40 days and nights without food, Jesus was hungry.

Then the Devil came to him and said, “If you are God’s Son, order these stones to turn into bread” (Matthew 4:2 and 3 GNT).

In the wilderness Jesus fasted, intentionally going without food in order to give himself to prayer, seeking his Father’s will. Pray about what kind of fasting you could implement during this Lent season.

Friday 15 March ‘After spending 40 days and nights without food, Jesus was hungry.

Then the Devil came to him and said, “If you are God’s Son, order these stones to turn into bread” (Matthew 4:2 and 3 GNT).

This event in the life of Jesus might well have inspired Lucy BoothHellberg when she wrote: ‘When you feel weakest, dangers surround,/ Subtle temptations, troubles abound’ (SASB 691). Jesus endured the subtle temptations to assert his identity and satisfy his hunger. Explore in prayer the temptations you may face and ask God to equip you to triumph over them, as Jesus did.

Saturday 16 March Jesus answered, ‘The Scripture says, “Human beings cannot live on bread alone, but need every word that God speaks” (Matthew 4:4 GNT).

Spend time today asking God to help you identify what you need to satisfy your spiritual hunger. Also let us pray for others this day that are facing physical and spiritual hunger.

O The Lent Focus is taken from Prayer Matters, January to April 2019

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NEWS FEATURE

TYB continues to touch lives BOURNEMOUTH

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HE 2019 Territorial Youth Band met at the Carrington House Hotel during February half-term, writes Eloise Hooper (Regent Hall).

Under the leadership of Director of Music and Creative Arts Stephen Cobb (THQ), TYB is open to brass-playing 12 to 18-year-olds.

The week was filled with rehearsals, Bible study and plenty of fun. An aim of the week is to develop future music leaders in The Salvation Army, and I personally have seen many of my TYB friends step into leadership positions as a result.

Auditions are always nerve-racking, but are a great opportunity to play in front of world-class musicians, such as LSO trumpeter Philip Cobb. Our first rehearsal followed the auditions, when we discovered that, unusually, we were focusing exclusively on the music of Peter Graham.

concert, including Peter Graham’s ‘Shine As The Light’.

Thursday was when we got to know Peter better, being rehearsed by him and hearing him talk about his life. This was fascinating in many ways, and it was incredible to hear some of the clever ideas behind his music. The round-up of the week on Thursday evening was styled as a 60th birthday

Delegates enjoy amazing week at Territorial Youth Choir BOURNEMOUTH

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On Tuesday we began our Bible study for the week and we met with TYC for a social evening. The focus of the Bible study this year was on being an authentic Christian, as seen in the story of Peter. One particular challenge in Peter’s story was the reminder that we need to get out of the boat!

On Wednesday evening we enjoyed the visit of the International Staff Band.

A highlight for me was the cornet duet ‘To Set The People Free’. TYB also had the opportunity to join the ISB in playing a few numbers at the end of their 8

Salvationist 9 March 2019

party for Peter and this was a hilarious way to see his lighter side.

As this was my last TYB I knew what to expect but I have to say that this was by far the best week I’ve attended, both musically and in terms of fellowship.

I am grateful for my amazing seven years at TYB and hope it continues to touch the lives of many young people in the years to come.

ITH the arrival of TYC once again friends were reunited and new friendships began to form, writes Caitlin Potts (Leicester South). We had an audition to determine which part we would be singing and where we would sit and then a short welcome before the rehearsals began.

Rehearsals were to prepare for the final concert and learn new musical techniques to improve our individual abilities. We also gained new friendships during this time as we were seated next to people who we didn’t necessarily know beforehand.

Another key part of the week was the teaching, led by DYS Nick Hampton (North London). The theme for the week was Be Authentic, and we looked at our own authenticity and the authenticity of our relationship with God. We talked about ‘de-masking’ ourselves and being authentic to everyone, showing our Christian values all the time. On Wednesday morning we had a visit

from Gail Millar, who led our teaching for the day. She had some inspirational stories, showing the authentic, trusting relationship she has with God. During the week we sang ‘Guardian Of My Soul’. This really stuck out to me as a song reflecting the theme of authenticity, with the words, ‘You know my name and where I’m going’, which by the end of the song become ‘I’ll know my name and where I’m going’. We used this during worship on Thursday morning and it became a real testimony from the week for many of us.

We did various activities, one of which was a visit from Tom Hier who has performed in various stage shows. He led a masterclass in which he worked with four of the students and focused on the way they conveyed the meaning behind what they were singing. Then, in his workshop, we learnt a small part of the dance from one of the shows in which he had performed. Other

Authenticity is expressed in musical excellence and genuine passion LIGHTHOUSE THEATRE, POOLE

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HE atmosphere created by TYB’s playing of ‘Olympic Fanfare And Theme’ at the opening of this year’s Youth Makes Music was electric, reports Louise Wood (Scarborough).

TYB and TYC inspired their audience with musical excellence and a genuine passion for all that had encompassed this special week, whose theme of Authenticity came through in everything that was sung, played and spoken.

These young people gave their best for the highest in what, without doubt, is a

highlight of the Salvation Army calendar.

TYC opened their contribution with the stunning ‘Symphony Of Praise’, superbly arranged by Andrew Blyth.

The mood changed, as can easily happen within Salvation Army concerts, to leave us moved and blessed with TYB’s poignant presentation of ‘St Teresa’ and TYC’s beautifully moving delivery of ‘Guardian Of My Soul’.

TYC, under the leadership of Ira Thomas and Karl Westwood, excelled this year with their diverse choice of

activities included a night with our friends at TYB, a games night and a silent disco.

Every bit of energy we had left by Friday night went into the concert. It was a really rewarding feeling, singing in front of such a supportive audience.

TYC was amazing! A massive thank you to Ira Thomas and all the staff for showing us their love of music and the authenticity they have in their own relationships with God.

songs, including a solo, ‘Who Can Satisfy My Soul?’, from TYC member Katy Woodhouse, whose beautiful voice is mature beyond her years, and a new arrangement of the well-known song, ‘Shout To The Lord’, which had a Swahili influence. A highlight of the choir’s contribution was the a cappella arrangement of ‘It Is Well With My Soul’.

TYB, under the leadership of Stephen Cobb, were privileged to have Peter Graham share with them from Wednesday evening, and the band delighted the audience with his pieces, ‘Call Of The Cossacks’, ‘Gaelforce’ and the first public performance of his arrangement, ‘This Is My Story’, written in the style of Wilfred Heaton’s ‘Victory For Me’.

Peter spoke about the ‘real thrill’ of working with the young people of this territory and explained the story behind his piece, ‘The Dawning’, which he wrote 35 years ago. He said it was a symphony for brass, containing three movements that were effectively condensed into one ten-minute movement with the tunes ‘My Lord, What A Morning’, ‘Morning Has Broken’ and with the main focus coming from Joy Webb’s ‘There Will Be God’. He wanted to capture the events and moods of her words: ‘Ten thousand years may pass away,/ And bring the dawning of a cosmic day;/ Age after age, time after time hold its sway;/ Man walks alone/ Amidst uncertainty,/ Only one thing can still make him strong/ In the pain, in the doubt, in the loneliness,/ In the struggle of right against wrong:/ Somewhere amidst the confusion there will be hope, there will be love, there will be God.’ TYB’s final contribution was the technically challenging piece ‘Shine As The Light’. The band again excelled in its performance of this piece, which would seriously challenge many bands of far greater experience.

The concert ended on a high with TYB and TYC joining forces with the soul-inspiring song ‘How Great Thou Art’.

Was it authentic? Most definitely!

For the young people to be part of something so inspiring under the leadership of such passionate leaders, for them to be given the opportunity to challenge themselves and to be challenged, I say thank you to all who make this life-changing week possible.

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INTERVIEW

SURELY THAT’S A BLESSING! Jessica Green tells Shanelle Manderson why she’s learnt to live for today

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NE afternoon in October 2012, Jessica Green’s life changed for ever after some news from her doctor. ‘You have a brain tumour,’ he told her as she sat in the hospital room with her mum and her future husband, Matthew. They were in utter shock.

A few days before the diagnosis, Jess lived the life of an average 22-year-old.

An aspiring teacher, she’d just graduated from Swansea University with a degree in German. One evening three weeks into her PGCE secondary programme in German with Spanish at Exeter University, she decided to go out to eat at a restaurant with some friends.

‘The next day I felt ill and was vomiting,’ says Jess. ‘I assumed it was the food from the day before, so I spent the day in bed. I had a head pain not a headache and I’ve never felt anything like it since.

‘I was living with Carol, a lady from Exeter Temple Corps, and, noticing I wasn’t myself, she took me to an out-of-hours doctor, who said I had a migraine and sent me home.

‘I still wasn’t quite right the next day, but I’d just ordered some new glasses and needed to post my mum a birthday card, so I went into town – only I couldn’t find the post office. I somehow managed to make my way home and I was sitting on my bed when Carol asked me: “Have you been shopping, Jess?” It was kind of a running joke she always used to say when I went out, and I said: “Oh yes, Carol, I’ve been shopping in Cardiff.” Well, I wasn’t in Cardiff, I was in Exeter.’

Carol and Jess’s now sister-in-law, Becky, took her back to see the doctor, adamant that she needed to go to hospital. He noticed a difference in her behaviour within the 24-hour period and, after a CT scan and an MRI scan, the cause of her confusion and head pain was brought to light.

Everything that followed was a daze for Jess.

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I’m always told I do too much because I just get on as if there’s nothing wrong with me, but I am assured that my life is in God’s hands and that Jesus paid it all for me On 30 October 2012, after seeing a neurologist in Cardiff Hospital, Jess had an operation to remove as much of the tumour as possible.

She was told she had a left frontal lobe low-grade glioma. Low-grade gliomas are brain tumours that come from two different types of brain cells known as astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. They are classified as grade two tumours, making them the slowest growing glioma in adults. They do not spread outside the brain, but instead grow into the normal brain tissue, creating symptoms as the tumour grows.

Six weeks after the operation she had a seizure and was diagnosed with post-traumatic epilepsy and, later, epilepsy.

‘I didn’t have the time to take it in because everything just happened so quickly,’ explains Jess. ‘One minute I was training to be a teacher, the next I was diagnosed with a brain tumour. My life just seemed to change overnight.

’

There were big things coming one after another and it was like I didn’t have time to get my head around anything. I had a huge fear, which I know seems minor: I thought I’d lose my German.’

A lifelong Salvationist, Jess drew on her faith and the support of her relatives and corps family.

‘I was overwhelmed, but I continually trusted and prayed to God,’ she says.

‘My friends and family were shocked but everyone was amazing. I got so many bouquets of flowers and cards, many of which had the Scripture reading Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous”. That really stands out to me – that’s my verse. I also received a glass plaque with the words “step by step”. It meant so much to us as a family.’

Although Jess attended Pentre Corps as a toddler, she grew up at Penarth Corps, attending with her mum, dad and brother, and was enrolled as a junior soldier aged seven. Despite soldiering at Swansea while at university, Berlin

Mitte and Berlin Sud-West while living in Germany for a year, and Exeter Temple, it is her enrolment as a senior soldier that continues to remain a prominent memory in her life, as it was the last time her family got together before her grandad was promoted to Glory – he had cancer.

‘Grampy Derek was one of my biggest Christian influences,’ Jess enthuses. ‘He was my absolute inspiration. He had such a strong faith, no matter what situation he was facing, and never seemed to shy away from what was happening to him, and I kept that with me.’

Every three to six months after the surgery Jess had check-ups. However, a further five epileptic seizures meant she was repeatedly admitted to hospital in the high-dependency intensive care unit. Medication helped Jess to manage

the seizures, but in November 2016 she was told the tumour had grown and she needed another operation.

‘Matthew and I felt like we’d hit a brick wall,’ Jess recalls.

After initially declining surgery, she had another operation in June 2017, started a six-week bout of radiotherapy in September of the same year and is presently receiving chemotherapy.

‘It’s horrible,’ says Jess. ‘I have to have it intravenously for an hour at the hospital, take seven tablets at home every day for the next eight days, and two tablets a day for two days – ten days of chemo in total. For the next four weeks I recover, as the chemotherapy affects my white blood cells and my immune system and I’m very weak.

‘So, while the surgery removed as much of the tumour as possible, chemotherapy is a long-term prevention of regrowth, looking at the next 20 years.’

As a result of her surgery and epilepsy she couldn’t drive for a year, she has to plan her days meticulously, she sometimes gets sentences muddled up and has become an avid note taker as she sometimes forgets things. Although the tumour has affected Jess in these ways, she continues to enjoy life.

She is part of a knitting group and regularly visits various charity centres that offer free, practical, emotional and social support to people with cancer and their families, including Maggie’s, Epilepsy Action Cymru (Wales) and Clic Sargent.

After she taught German for two years, Jess felt God calling her to work with families and loves her present role as a regional specialist for family ministries. Last October she ran a Wear Grey for a Day event at the service centre where she’s based to raise awareness of brain tumours; she shared her testimony and raised £50 for Maggie’s.

‘People were bowled over,’ she says.

‘They couldn’t believe what I’d been through and continue to go through, but I’ve accepted this is a part of my life. I don’t want people to feel sorry for me, because, actually, why treat me any differently?’

Jess continues to take one day at a time. Calling Swansea home for the past ten years, she is a member of Swansea Band and Songsters and the youth group, and helps with Messy Church and Friday night SA Fun in SA1.

‘I feel so welcomed and blessed to be a part of this friendly, welcoming and honest family of God,’ says Jess.

She’s learnt to live for today, appreciate what she has and use her experience to help others.

‘I’m always told I do too much because I just get on as if there’s nothing wrong with me, but I am assured that my life is in God’s hands and that Jesus paid it all for me,’ she says. ‘The husband of Laura Story – an American singer-songwriter – has a similar story to mine. She wrote a book, When God Doesn’t Fix It, and a song called ‘Blessings’ at the time he was diagnosed. The chorus says… ’Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops, What if your healing comes through tears, What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know you’re near, What if trials of this life are your mercies in disguise.

‘I think God healed me through the power of the surgeon and prayer. Yes, the tumour did regrow, but I’m having treatment for it and therefore God is continuing to heal me through everything I am going through and surely that is a blessing!’

JESSICA IS REGIONAL SPECIALIST FOR FAMILY MINISTRIES, NEWPORT SERVICE CENTRE Salvationist 9 March 2019

11

FEATURE Helping-hand appeal

COMMUNITY SHARES Hayley Still introduces the 2019 helping-hand appeal, which will support The Salvation Army’s international income generation projects

‘H

OW good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!’ (Psalm 133:1). In the urban slums of Nairobi, Kenya, every day is a struggle for survival. It is harsh. It is squalid. It is unfair. It is neglected. But it is not hopeless. Not content with life as it is, people are coming together and taking their future into their own hands.

Together they are pursuing life as it could be – as it was intended to be.

As part of a community self-help group, members regularly contribute small amounts of money to build up a communal fund. They can then each take loans from this shared pot to start or expand their business, or pay for unexpected costs.

The Salvation Army is already working and walking alongside these communities. Money raised through Community Shares, the 2019 helpinghand appeal, will help provide training, facilities and support to equip and enable these self-help groups to thrive.

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Salvationist 9 March 2019

Jephreys with Whitcliff and two of their children Cecelia management, accounting, marketing, healthcare and anti-human trafficking helps to improve opportunities, grow confidence, generate income and strengthen resilience within the whole community. It is the epitome of empowerment, equality and accountability.

With their four children, Jephreys and her husband, Whitcliff, live in Dandora slum on the outskirts of Nairobi. They own a wood shop from which they sell firewood, timber, branches and sawdust.

Jephreys and Whitcliff are members of the Mwamko Self-help Group, which meets at Dandora Phase 2 Corps.

Jephreys says: ‘Because of the struggles of life we decided we had to do something for our future. But it was difficult for us because we had nothing.

We had to pay rent, we had to get food and we had to educate our children. It was tough.

‘We started with a small loan; we repaid it and we took another one. Then we started seeing big changes. Our business is expanding.

‘I thank God because we have gone somewhere. We pay rent without difficulty. We can get food for our children. If we didn’t join this group, I think things would have been even tougher for us. I’m so happy. I’m happy about my work.’

Across the city lies another of Nairobi’s sprawling slums. Kibera is one of the largest slums in the world, and the challenges people face there are extensive. It is overcrowded and dangerous. There is regular violence and theft.

The Salvation Army compound in Kibera is based in the heart of the slum. In the middle of the chaos the Kibera Mamas group provides safety and solace to the women who take part. They can talk and laugh with friends, leave their challenges outside or choose to discuss them in a safe environment.

Unlike other self-help groups that follow a savings and loans model, the Kibera Mamas learn to make bead animals which are sold and the profit shared among the members.

‘

Money raised through Community Shares, the 2019 helping-hand appeal, will help provide training, facilities and support to equip and enable these self-help groups to thrive

’

Cecelia lives in Kibera where she shares a one-room dwelling with her family. She heard about Kibera Mamas from the group leader Nfrieda and was interested in attending so she could learn a new skill.

‘The group is nice because it helps us,’ says Cecelia, ‘and I can talk with the other mamas. It makes us grow our minds, instead of just sitting and doing nothing.’

In the slum, everything has a price: water, toilets, showers, even a place to throw rubbish. Yet, as Cecelia explains: ‘Most people in the slum are jobless.’

Before joining the group Cecelia would get occasional work washing dishes for her neighbours. This would bring in a small amount of money, which she could use to pay for food for her children. But the unpredictable nature of this meant she would not know, from one day to the next, if she would be able to earn enough money to provide for her family. Some nights they would have to go to bed hungry. ‘Life before was difficult,’ Cecelia says. ‘I would look for something to do like cleaning clothes, and I would get just 100 shillings [approximately 76p] to feed my children,

but I would not know about tomorrow.’ Now Cecelia and her children do not go hungry.

As part of the Kibera Mamas group she has learnt to make bead animals and can share in the profits with the other group members. ‘I no longer say that I am jobless because I am doing beadwork,’ she says.

Through The Salvation Army’s income-generation project, 30 self-help groups like Kibera Mamas have already been established and 30 more are planned. Group members receive training to help them start or grow their businesses and have a safe place to save money with their fellow members.

Alongside the opportunity to overcome material poverty is the chance to build relationships and create community. The Kibera Mamas laugh and talk together, comforting one another in their sorrows and celebrating their successes.

In these seemingly desperate surroundings, community has flourished and potential is being fulfilled. In the community, life can be about more than mere survival. When a community shares, it can thrive.

During 2019, corps and family ministries groups across our territory will raise money for income-generation projects through the Community Shares helping-hand appeal. You can stand alongside communities as they work to overcome poverty together. £75 could provide the resources to teach someone to read O £150 could provide business training to a self-help group O £620 could support a savings group to lift themselves out of poverty O

Order a free Community Shares fundraising pack by calling 020 7367 4956 or download all the resources from salvationarmy.org.uk/communityshares

HAYLEY IS UK ENGAGEMENT CO-ORDINATOR IN THE INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS OFFICE, THQ Salvationist 9 March 2019

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LENT REFLECTION REF EFLE LECT LE CTIO CT ION IO N LENT

The words from the cross Major John Waters introduces a series for Lent and reflects on ‘the word of forgiveness’

T

HE words of Jesus during the Crucifixion have been the source of much spiritual reflection, particularly through the period of Lent and the Passion, and it is hoped that these background studies will provide similar opportunities in our preparation for Holy Week and the Easter celebrations.

The seven discrete sayings are not found in all the Gospels but form a composite list. Each of the four evangelists omits some and duplicates others, and together they provide the total recorded sayings from the cross.

The references are as follows: Luke 23:34 Luke 23:43 O John 19:26 and 27 O Mark 15:34 (also Matthew 27:46) O John 19:28 O John 19:30 O Luke 23:46 O O

Matthew 27:50 and Mark 15:37 also mention that, just before he died, Jesus cried out ‘in a loud voice’, but whether the words correspond to those in John 19:30 or Luke 23:46 is impossible to determine with any certainty. Nor, as a consequence of compiling the sayings from all four Gospels, can we be sure of the order in which the sayings were made, and therefore in these articles we simply follow this traditional sequence.

THE WORD OF FORGIVENESS ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing’ (Luke 23:34).

This saying, which is found only in Luke’s account, is omitted by important early Greek documents,

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perhaps because of the disputed interpretation of ‘they’. Who are ‘they’?

It is plausible that Jesus was referring to the soldiers who did their duty and carried out the execution. More widely, it was assumed that Jesus meant those who had, by their prejudice and hostility, brought about the Crucifixion, namely the Jewish leaders.

Luke himself seems to assume this, and in Acts 3:17–19, makes it explicit: ‘Now, fellow Israelites, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders.

But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Messiah would suffer. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.’

It seems a second-century scribe found the idea of forgiving the Jews so difficult that he omitted the saying from his manuscript. The destruction of Jerusalem in AD70 and AD135 might well have seemed to him the result of God’s displeasure and therefore confirmation that they were not forgiven.

While there may have been difficulties for that early copyist, which made him think the prayer improbable, in fact it is even more improbable that Jesus did not say it. The thought that ignorance is a ground for forgiveness is common but as John Creed commented: ‘That the thought should be transposed into a prayer uttered by the sufferer on behalf of his persecutors is in peculiar harmony with the spirit of Christ.’

This sublime prayer is echoed in the prayer of Stephen on the occasion of his stoning – ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them’ (Acts 7:60) – but to be fair to that sceptical scribe, Christians have continued to find the forgiveness of some offenders something of a problem.

Although the idea of forgiveness appears to be a significant aspect of the gospel, it is surprising that in

the sayings of Jesus there are fewer direct references than we may expect.

According to a study by Vincent Taylor, when we omit texts that are duplicates of those already recorded in another Gospel, we are left with just five main sayings on forgiveness. In addition to the saying from the cross we have sayings on forgiveness and blasphemy (Mark 3:28 and 29), forgiving others so that God may forgive us (Mark 11:25 and, in some manuscripts, 26, and Matthew 6:14 and 15), repeated forgiveness (Matthew 18:21 and 22) and a prayer for forgiveness (Matthew 6:12 and Luke 11:4).

These examples show the importance and necessity of forgiveness: it removes the hindrances to that reconciliation which is the very purpose of God’s redemptive work. An unforgiving attitude prevents even the hope of reconciliation, either between us and others or between us and God. No wonder, then, that forgiveness assumes such a significant role in our spiritual life for, as Paul taught so persuasively, ‘God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation’ (2 Corinthians 5:19). A spirit of forgiveness is the beginning of that needful renewal of relationships, which is the very heart of the Easter story.

MAJOR WATERS LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN BIDDULPH MOOR

LIGHT BITES

IMMERSED IN THE BOOK In an excerpt from his book Light Bites Major Peter Mylechreest emphasises the value of reading the Bible

A

NERVOUS boy who escapes some bullies by taking shelter in a library is the main character in the beautiful children’s film The Pagemaster. The librarian encourages him to get immersed in the books.

Unexpectedly, as he starts reading various books, he gets drawn right into them. So he faces pirates, monsters and dragons, until at last he emerges brave and courageous, determined and knowledgeable. He has become part of each of the stories and has grown wiser with each adventure, better equipped for life outside the library.

The Bible should be read like that.

Where are we in the picture? What can

we see? What can we hear? What can we be? It’s not just head knowledge; it’s allowing the word of God to come alive for us. We enter it – and it enters us, the word of Christ dwelling in us richly. We become part of God’s story.

Because we value the importance of the written word of God, we see beyond the book to the God who has communicated to humankind through the Bible. We have no other reliable source.

The Bible contains a revelation by God of his own character and his will for us.

Paul, referring to the word and the Spirit, wrote: ‘When the Message we preached came to you, it wasn’t just words. Something happened in you. The Holy Spirit put steel in your convictions’ (1 Thessalonians 1:5 The Message).

This is the wonder of the Bible; it frequently awakes for the genuine seeker after truth an awareness of God speaking directly to our spirit. It enlightens us, encourages us, challenges us, protects us, guides us and inspires us. We neglect it to our loss, but read it to our eternal gain!

MAJOR MYLECHREEST IS THQ CHAPLAIN The book Light Bites: Spiritual Food In Small Portions is available from SP&S priced £4.99 (plus postage and packing)

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+ REVIEW

FOOD FOR SPIRITUAL GROWTH In Salvationist (9 February) John Coutts wrote about the new Good News Bible: The Youth Edition; we asked three members of Croydon Citadel’s youth group to say what they think of it Mia Laird The youth Bible has an appealing front cover with nice bright colours. I really like the layout when you open each page. The text is a good size, which is easy to read, and I like the space at the side so I can write comments. There are activities – drawing, daily tasks and challenges – which help with my spiritual growth. It is very easy to understand.

Heidi Lloyd-Jones I found the Bible good for a creative Christian, and it provided so many opportunities to explore small sections of the Bible in much greater depth.

Eleanor Musuele Bible study is an important part of our youth group. We meet for Foodtime – food for the body and food for the soul, being God’s word.

What I like most about the youth edition is the section called ‘Big Issues’.

This section deals with the many issues young people face and gives directions to where to find Scripture that’s relevant, which is so helpful.

Throughout the Bible there is space to draw or write your own comments as you study God’s word, as well as explanations to simplify difficult parts of the Bible. I found the introduction on each book of the Bible, giving an explanation and reasons to read it, very helpful. I think it’s probably more

appealing to those of a creative nature due to many drawings and activities.

If I saw this Bible on a shelf I would purchase it.

Good News Bible: The Youth Edition is available from biblesociety.org.uk priced £19.99 (plus postage and packing) O

Salvationist 9 March 2019

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BIBLE STUDY

FAMILY IN CHRIST JESUS Major Valerie Mylechreest reminds us of the importance of making others welcome STUDY PASSAGE: EPHESIANS 2:11–22

P

IERS Morgan is the ‘marmite’ of the media – a public personality who shares his strong views and opinions on the breakfast show, Good Morning Britain. The other morning he said that, along with many of us, when he visits the United States his paperwork describes him as an ‘alien’.

He was quick to state that because of his line of work, he is not just an alien, but also rather a ‘professional alien’. It made me smile – but it’s not OK.

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

by Major Melvyn Knott

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Salvationist 9 March 2019

To be called an alien is saying to a person you are not one of us – you are an outsider, a stranger, a foreigner.

Every day our news is filled with accounts of refugees and asylum seekers who are treated as if they were aliens and unwelcome. Sadly, I sense that in some corps, churches or centres we, unwittingly, might be doing the same thing.

QUESTIONS O The family of Christ Jesus – the Church – is called to offer hospitality.

How could you and your fellowship seek to do that?

O How can we make sure that those who come into our orbit are made to feel like they belong?

our feet and waiting to feel like we belong. Once we are established, we can quickly forget how that feels. We know how things work, what happens, who does what, and where we can fit in.

Paul describes the painful experience of those who have fought to become part of the church community. He notes twice in this letter that he is writing to Gentiles – to the ‘outsiders’ (2:11 and 3:1), and to those who, from an emotional space, are ‘without hope and without God in the world’ (v12).

Then Paul reminds us that Christ died for the ‘whosoever’ and our responsibility, as individuals and as the Church, is to be part of the solution.

QUESTIONS In what ways might we be more welcoming in our corps or centre?

O What might be our ‘welcome slogan’ and how might we message that in our behaviour?

O

Remember, family is an inclusive term It’s not easy being the ‘new person’.

Whether it’s school, college, a new job or church, it can be really difficult finding

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in Heaven and on Earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.

(Ephesians 3:14–17)

We need each other’s voice to sing,/ Each other’s strength to love,/ Each other’s views to help us bring/ Our hearts to God above./ Our lives like coals placed side by side/ To feed each other’s flame,/ Shall with the Spirit’s breath provide/ A blaze of faith to claim.

(SASB 346)

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

(Galatians 6:9 and10)

Remember the head of the family Reconciliation, reconciliation, reconciliation! That’s the message of these verses. Through his life and teaching, his love and preaching, and particularly through his dying, Jesus came to reconcile us to God and to each other.

QUESTIONS O In what ways can we reflect our love for God and each other, and not just talk about it?

O How might we better put our words into actions?

Remember, family brings responsibility Being part of a loving and embracing family is a good thing but it brings responsibility. At best, family needs to provide space to be loved, understood and accepted ‘just as we are’. Christ epitomises this love for us. He becomes our ‘peace’ – from the Hebrew word shalom. We experience inner peace, a deep well-being from a deep relationship with God – our heavenly Father/Parent.

This reality should impact our outward demeanour and behaviour. Learning to love at a deeper level, with open heart but honest boundaries, is often the key.

QUESTION O Someone once said: ‘Good fences make good neighbours.’ What boundaries should we put into place?

Remember ‘ohana In the Disney film Lilo & Stitch, an alien comes into the family and learns the Hawaiian word ‘ohana which means family, and then there’s the quote: ‘Family means no one gets left behind or forgotten.’

I spent five years in the THQ Family Ministries Unit, linking strongly to our midweek groups, building bridges, crossing boundaries and ‘making bigger tables’. These are all important if we are to ensure ‘no one gets left behind or forgotten’.

At the Christmas table all are welcome. We mash up food for the babies (and sometimes the great-

grandparents), we include special sauces and fineries for some and we add vegan options for those who prefer not to eat meat. The result – everyone feels welcome! These initial stages of welcome and journey are vital.

QUESTION O Don’t build walls, but bigger tables!

What does this look like in your community and what can you do to be part of the solution?

Live like family Let’s put this into practice. Christ is our cornerstone and the bedrock of our faith family; we are joined to him and to one another. Part of this dwelling culture is to do with shared symbols of meaning and specific nuances…

O In songs sung and what they celebrate O In things people find funny O In the events we choose to commemorate O In the heroes celebrated O In the nature and type of relationships O In the way resources are dealt with O In the way that authority, privacy and intimacy are experienced QUESTION Where are you, individually and corporately, getting this right?

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Well done you!

MAJOR MYLECHREEST IS DIVISIONAL COMMANDER, SOUTH LONDON

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Jesus taught us how to be a family,/ Jesus taught us how to be a family,/ Loving one another with the love that he gives,/ Jesus taught us how to be a family.

(SASB 875)

In bringing many sons and daughters to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through what he suffered. Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters.

(Hebrews 2:10 and 11)

We’re all seeking the same Saviour,/ We’re all seeking the selfsame Lord./ We’re all claiming the same cleansing,/ We’re all finding our peace restored.

(SASB 482)

May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. (Romans 15:5–7)

Prayer Father, you know our hearts and every detail about us. Draw us closer to you as a family that we would seek you beyond all else. Through all we say and do, may others see something of you.

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NEW COMMITMENTS

BUCKHAVEN: Having worshipped at the corps for more than two years, Rachael Wemyss was welcomed as an adherent member by corps leader Territorial Envoy Andrew Howe.

Rachael’s family supported her in this next step on her journey of faith, and the dance group shared her testimony through their dance to the song ‘Oceans’. Pictured with Rachael are (front) her mother, Diana, and her sisters, Luccie and Megan, and (back) her father, Darren, and Andrew. – A. H.

SUNDERLAND MILLFIELD: Eric Stobart was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Major Peter Clark. Eric had been searching for a spiritual home and quickly became a part of the corps congregation and the men’s fellowship. Eric is pictured with Recruiting Sergeant Major Eddie Arnold. – R. B.

CWMBRAN: Lilian Orringe felt a strong call to the Army and was enrolled as a soldier by corps officer Major Paula Ashman. Lilian is an enthusiastic person of prayer. They are pictured with CSM Graham Andrews, who has supported Lilian, and flagbearer Malcolm Ridout. – S. A. 18

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DARTFORD: Corps officer Captain Sue Dean and Territorial Envoy Ed Dean welcomed Ian Amos as an adherent member. Ian volunteers at the homeless shelter and, having thought seriously for some time, decided to make the Army his church. – E. D.

BOURNE: Susan Naden was welcomed as an adherent member by corps officer Captain Wendy Brown. Susan recently moved to the area, and is involved with the corps community work. She is pictured with Captain Wendy and Adherents Secretary Joan Thompson. – C. G.

BRISTON: Having attended worship and other corps activities for some time, Peter and Sue Purdy felt they would like to make the corps their spiritual home and were welcomed as adherent members by corps officer Lieutenant Gemma Allen. Sue thanked the congregation for the warm welcome and support they had received. – G. A.

LETTERS

OUR HISTORY IS WRITTEN IN his Bible study entitled Be On Your Guard! (Salvationist 16 February) Major Steve Dutfield asks if Paul’s warning to the church in Ephesus could be levelled at The Salvation Army: ‘Savage wolves will come in among you and will not spare the flock. Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them’ (Acts 20:29 and 30). Paul precedes his warning with the words: ‘For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God.’ Our history is written for us in the first book of Genesis. ‘So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them’ (v27).

We are to note the repetition that reinforces the first statement and not miss the command that follows to rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every living

creature that moves on the ground.

The will of God was and is that mankind might be restored to the relationship that Adam and Eve enjoyed with their Maker before the Fall by sending his Son to die for the sins of all who believe in him. Evolutionists brush out the Fall from their theology, denying that sin and death came into the world because of our first disobedience. They replace the truth of God’s word with the fiction of billions of years of evolution.

Are not these the ones who distort the truth and shrink from proclaiming the whole will of God? Jesus himself spoke of the days of Noah, settling once and for all the trustworthiness of the Book of Genesis.

Paul writes to Timothy: ‘Guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away… from the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and in so doing have departed from the faith. Grace be with you all.’

Edith Powney, Wimborne

MISSING LINK I AM really unhappy that the Link DVD is no more. We are told that the DVDs are not a requirement for most people these days and are being used less and less.

Well, I still use it and would very much like to continue to do so. I can’t be the only one!

I wonder how many clubs use the Link DVD in their meetings. I feel the gap of contact is getting larger and larger between my beloved Army and me.

Richard Boryer, Havant

THANK YOU FOR HOSPITAL MINISTRY I WISH to convey my thanks to Morriston Band and Songsters, who once a month share their talents in the foyer of the local hospital; this is a great witness and gives patients and visitors great blessing.

I want to thank them especially for going the extra mile.

My wife, Eileen, has been in the hospital

for some weeks, many miles from home, undergoing various procedures.

A small party of musicians arrived at the ward, went into her single room to play and sing her favourite songs, and then shared a prayer with her.

This gave her great encouragement at a difficult time. Eileen is still in hospital.

I would also like to thank the retired officers of Swansea Corps for their visits and kindness to us – spiritual and practical.

Ray Hobbins, Major, Aberystwyth

GENETICS OR SPIRITUAL FACTORS? IN Professor John Lennox’s book Can Science Explain Everything? he quotes the atheist physicist Sean Carroll: ‘The meaning we find in life is not transcendent.’ One might refute Carroll’s statement as follows: Dr Francis Collins is a Christian physician.

He claims that transcendent feelings were part of his personal pilgrimage from atheism to faith. Transcendent feelings are known to be generated in an area of the brain actually associated with logical function. It is not unreasonable that God might provide his highest form of creation (humankind) with a means to communicate with him.

Professors Alice Roberts and Aoife McLysaght recently co-hosted The Royal Institute Christmas Science Lectures for Young People and in doing so, arguably, made a few holes in their atheistic beliefs.

The subject was human genetics.

The passion and professionalism of the two academics for science communication was tangible. The high point was when the young audience compassionately talked through some of the dilemmas generated by modern science. Would they want to know in their late twenties that their genetic fingerprint indicated that they were at high risk of developing dementia before they were sixty?

It is unquestionable that humans and chimpanzees have similar genetic profiles. Both are capable of showing high levels of altruism. However, chimpanzees do not engage in debates on ethics. Neither do they have elaborate systems for caring for the most vulnerable in their society.

Humans undoubtedly have a greater intellectual capacity than apes. This is unquestionably controlled by a unique gene, but are the differences solely down to the mechanism of genetics?

In philosophical terms this would be regarded as reductionism. If reductionism is a rather sterile and ‘lacking in meaning’ philosophy, might we have to concede that there may be spiritual factors at work here?

Kevin Chubb, Barry Salvationist 9 March 2019

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

ARMY PEOPLE

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APPOINTED Effective 28 February O Territorial Envoy Matthew Brake, Brixham Effective 1 March O Major Allister Versfeld, Mission Development Officer, Strawberry Field Effective 18 March O Major Steven Turner, Prestonpans

TRIBUTES

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES Golden O Ken and Janet Hancock, Edmonton (15 March) O Asst Sgt-Major Barry and Mary Burton, Southsea (22 March) DEDICATED TO GOD O Marcus David, son of Jonathan and Natalie Pipe, at Maidstone by Major Lynne Clifton RETIRED OFFICERS Birthday congratulations O Mrs Major Janina Neale (95 on 23 March) BEREAVED O Captain Joyce Stott of her husband Captain Bill Stott, Martin Stott and Nigel Stott of their father PROMOTED TO GLORY O Major Ida Cawthorne from Dewdown House, Weston-super-Mare, on 19 February O Mary Foster, Newcastle City Temple

Major Angela Tucker from Chester on 24 February O Sheila Farrant, Isle of Wight O Captain Bill Stott from Nottingham on 26 February

MRS LIEUTCOLONEL MARGARET LOXLEY MARGARET was born in Aberdeen in 1922 to officer parents, moving to Govan for a short period and then to Japan in 1926, which had a great influence on her life. Returning to the UK, the Lonsdale family worshipped at Leytonstone and Wealdstone, where Margaret became a senior soldier, Akela for the corps cub pack and a worker in the Sunday school.

In 1947 Margaret entered the International Training College as a member of the King’s Messengers Session, staying on as assistant sergeantmajor in the following Peacemakers Session. She was then appointed to Avalon, a school run by the Army.

Margaret married Captain Robert Loxley in 1950 and their three sons were born during the time they lived in Beckenham.

In 1962 they began a five-year appointment in the East Africa Territory and, upon their return to the UK, settled in East Barnet where Margaret lived until shortly before her promotion to Glory.

The nature of Bob and Margaret’s

ENGAGEMENTS GENERAL BRIAN PEDDLE AND COMMISSIONER ROSALIE PEDDLE: O Pakistan (commissioning), Wed 20 Mar – Sun 24* O Sunbury Court (International Theological Council), Mon 25* O William Booth College (International Child Protection Conference), Tu 26* O Zimbabwe and Botswana Territory (Commissioner Vinece Chigariro’s retirement), Sat 30 – Tu 2 Apr* THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER LYNDON BUCKINGHAM) AND COMMISSIONER BRONWYN BUCKINGHAM: O New Zealand (women’s conference), Sun 24 Mar – Sun 31** THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANTHONY COTTERILL) AND COMMISSIONER GILLIAN COTTERILL: O Ireland (divisional congress), Sat Sun 10 Mar O Sunbury Court (five-year review of officership), Mon 11 O William Booth College (Design for Life), Sat 16 O William Booth College (Exploring Leadership Day), Sun 17 O Sunbury Court (leaders orientation), Wed 20 – Sat 30 THE CHIEF SECRETARY (COLONEL LEE GRAVES) AND COLONEL DEBORAH GRAVES: O William Booth College (spiritual day with cadets), Wed 20 Mar O Devon and Cornwall (divisional leaders retreat), Mon 25 – Wed 27 *The General only **World Secretary for Women’s Ministries only

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Salvationist 9 March 2019

appointments to IHQ and social services enabled them to be active in corps life, first at Bromley, then Nairobi City and finally at Barnet. Margaret’s official roles included YPSM, singing company leader and home league secretary, but she was actively involved in corps life as well as the community into her early nineties.

Margaret lived her life for others. She was quiet and unassuming, focusing on how best she could support and minister to others. She was an excellent example of compassion, self-sacrifice, forgiveness, understanding and love. Her choice was to live simply, rarely spending on things that were not essential, thus enabling her to be generous to those in need. She delighted in the knowledge that her children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren love the Lord and are all active in his service. – I. L.

MAJOR DAVID HIRD DAVID’S early Christian experience was formed in the Methodist Church, but after the family began to attend the Army in his youth, he found his spiritual home and his calling, to which he would devote his life.

An early career in the insurance industry accompanied a growing call to Salvation Army officership. David was commissioned as a member of the Evangelists Session and served in appointments within the Salvation Army Assurance Society Ltd. After marrying Christine Phillips he served as a corps officer at Wollaston, Cottenham, Rushden and Edinburgh Gorgie before retiring from active service in 1998.

David was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather whose influence touched many lives. A gentle man with a humble spirit, he had a deep desire to care and serve. He carried a grounded wisdom and was a friend and confidant to many, as well as a gifted administrator, who delighted in giving great attention to detail in many aspects of his life.

David was active in retirement at Llanelli, serving as assistant corps treasurer, band sergeant, bandsman and songster. He spent some time serving the South and Mid Wales Division as a finance assistant and committed time to the pastoral care and administration of

the retired officers group, as well as investing 20 years learning the Welsh language and completing a master’s degree in World Religions.

David had a quiet but confident faith, which was as much evident in the face of death as it was in life, aptly expressed in his final words: ‘Amen!

Amen! Amen!’ – A. C.

CATHERINE SMITH, WALLSEND KATIE was promoted to Glory aged 99. She was invited by a neighbour to the home league and became a soldier. She joined the songsters, assisted with the youth club, served as home league secretary and, in addition to the weekly meeting, organised additional gatherings at various locations.

There are many who fondly remember Katie’s warm hospitality and enduring friendship; there was always a warm welcome to all who visited her home.

Along with her late husband, Ron, she gave valuable service to corps.

For the past five years she was in residential care, where she was known for her cheery singing and happy smile.

Her three sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren treasure her memory.

Servant of God, well done! – R. S.

EILEEN ALSTON, SALE EILEEN first visited a morning meeting at Openshaw Citadel, where her father worshipped. She began attending regularly and was enrolled as a soldier,

joining the corps cadets and songsters. It was there she met, and later married, David.

The corps relocated to a new building in Grosvenor Street in Manchester, where she became cradle-roll sergeant, a position she held for many years.

The corps moved once again to Sale, where she continued to work in the primary, and each year Eileen purchased books for those members who were not regular attendees.

When her health deteriorated and she could no longer continue her role, Eileen continued to pray for them. Many of the children, with great affection, called her Auntie Eileen.

A loving wife, mother and grandmother, Eileen was faithful to the end. – D. A. Soldiers’ and adherent members’ tributes submitted for publication should be no longer than 150 words.

Good quality pictures will be included with tributes.

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‘ Employees, friends, members, officers, volunteers – we have them all in The Salvation Army!

We’ve asked various people to tell us about themselves. This week…

For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future

(Jeremiah 29:11)

Which historical figure would you like to meet?

Leonardo da Vinci, to experience his creative imagination and process.

DANIEL SIMMONS Dereham How did you first come into contact with the Army?

I have been involved in the Army for as long as I can remember, as both my parents are soldiers.

Why do you attend the Army?

I attend because of the friendly atmosphere, the fellowship and the brass music. I have been exploring my faith and relationship with God recently, after spending several years just ‘going with the flow’.

What is your day job?

I am a software engineer, so spend my day building programs and websites.

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

The most interesting thing is getting to work with new and emerging technologies almost as soon as they are available. The most frustrating is trying to gain an understanding of what a client really needs the system to be able to do, rather than what they think they want the system to do.

What is your favourite kind of holiday?

One where I can spend lots of time reading, or exploring mountains, forests and old castles.

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

I would want to be in a sci-fi film, playing the tech genius character.

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

Archery.

What do you do in your spare time?

Too much really! I ride horses regularly and collect and paint miniatures of various types. I also game, both electronically and physically, with friends throughout the week.

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

Cloaks – a bit old but so useful and suitable for everyone.

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

I think the first tape I owned was by Boyzone, and the first CD was by Busted.

What is your favourite Bible verse?

Jeremiah 29:11 and 12, and John 21:15–18 remind me of the promises God has made to me if I trust in him.

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

Peter, so I could find out what it was like for him being so trusted and loved by Jesus and being forgiven for each of his denials.

What is your favourite hymn or worship song?

‘King Of Kings, Majesty’ (SASB 376), for the words and for the music that accompanies them.

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

Violence.

’

Did you have a nickname growing up?

At university I was given the nickname Simmo, just my surname cut down a bit.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I’m fairly good at painting miniatures of various types, otherwise public speaking maybe, but I don’t like to admit that one too much.

Which book would you want on a desert island?

The Lord Of The Rings.

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

‘The Imperial March’ by John Williams.

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

Listen to those closest to you; they want what’s best for you.

What do you consider to be the most valuable thing you possess?

My watch, given to me by my grandparents for my 18th birthday shortly before they emigrated to Australia.

Something interesting you might want to know about me is…

I can play three instruments: Eb bass, violin and voice.