MAP QUEST
It should be simple, right? You plug an address into the app on your phone and let the GPS guide you to your desired destination.
But then you hit construction or an unexpected road closure. You find yourself wondering if you should stay the course or ignore the app and try to figure out another route on your own.
After all, what good is GPS if it doesn’t help you find the place you’re looking for?
Maybe these days what you’re looking for isn’t a place, but something you can’t quite put your finger on. A sense of meaning and purpose in life. A connection to something or Someone greater than yourself. In a word—God.
The Bible tells us that if you’re looking for God, “you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul” (Deuteronomy 4:29). He is near us any time we pray to Him (see Deuteronomy 4:7).
You don’t need an app or GPS. Just an open heart and the desire to know Him.
To learn how you can know God and His purpose for your life, visit our website at faithandfriends.ca or contact us at: The Salvation Army Editorial Department, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto ON M4H 1P4.
Photo: Rostislav Sedlacek/ stock.Adobe.com
12 Class Acts
FAITH BUILDERS
5 Drawing on Faith
We may not have a magic crayon, but we can create the life that God wants us to lead.
FAMILY TIME
8 Thank You, God
Can spiritual wisdom come from a child’s Sunday morning question?
GOD IN MY LIFE
10 “Jesus Is My Jam!”
Corey Bladen may have been the teacher, but that day he was “schooled.”
Local Ontario secondary school students win $5,000 for Salvation Army food bank.
16 The Fantastic Four
A quartet of felines are changing lives at the Edmonton Centre of Hope.
22 Hunter’s Food Drive
Eight-year-old’s initiative benefits The Salvation Army.
COMMON GROUND
25 If I Became a Christian … … could I still be me?
LITE STUFF
28 Eating Healthy With Erin Sudoku, Quick Quiz.
NIFTY THRIFTY
30 Ring in the Fall!
Create home décor using upcycled or found-in-the-wild materials.
Purr-fection
When I first heard about the good work that Dr. Bob is doing at The Salvation Army ’s Edmonton Centre of Hope, I knew that his story needed to be appreciated by a wider audience. And not just Dr. Bob’s story. Wilson, Freddie and Leroy are also part of the team working wonders. This quartet of cats—for that is what these four-legged therapy animals are—change lives on a daily basis at the facility.
The stories are numerous. Residents who have withdrawn into themselves venture out of their rooms to see how Freddie and the rest of the cats are doing. And clients who have never been able to open up to their caregivers now have conversations about the well-being of Wilson, Dr. Bob and Leroy.
“Seeing God’s hand in the cats that ended up with us is pretty beautiful,” states Vanessa Sim, assistant executive director at the Centre of Hope. “And as the Creator of the animals, God knew who needed to be where. They are providing vital therapy to our participants and we’re seeing that in action every day.”
Read all about these furry healers on page 16 of this magazine.
Elsewhere in this month’s Faith & Friends, you’ll see our take on the new Harold and the Purple Crayon movie, read how a teacher ’ s views were upended by the quiet actions of one student, and discover how an eight-year-old boy took it upon himself to do something for others in his community. Ken Ramstead
Mission Statement
To show Christ at work in the lives of real people, and to provide spiritual resources for those who are new to the Christian faith.
Faith & Friends is published bimonthly by:
The Salvation Army 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto Ontario, M4H 1P4
International Headquarters 101 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4P 4EP, England
Lyndon Buckingham, GENERAL
Commissioner Lee Graves
TERRITORIAL COMMANDER
Lt-Colonel John P. Murray
SECRETARY FOR COMMUNICATIONS
Geoff Moulton, DIRECTOR OF INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND LITERARY SECRETARY
Pamela Richardson
ASSISTANT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Ken Ramstead, EDITOR
Kristin Ostensen
MANAGING EDITOR OF SALVATIONIST AND SALVATIONIST.CA
Lisa Suroso
GRAPHIC DESIGN SPECIALIST
Emily Pedlar
JUNIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Rivonny Luchas
DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST
Giselle Randall
SENIOR EDITOR OF SALVATIONIST
Abbigail Oliver
EDITOR OF JUST FOR KIDS AND STAFF WRITER
Logan Graves CIRCULATION CO-ORDINATOR
Scripture
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture references are taken from New International Version
Contact Us P. (416) 467-3188, F. (416) 422-6217
Websites faithandfriends.ca, salvationist.ca, salvationarmy.ca
Email faithandfriends@salvationarmy.ca
Subscription for one year: Canada $17 (includes GST/HST); U.S. $22; foreign $24 P. (416) 422-6153
circulation@ salvationarmy.ca
All articles are copyright The Salvation Army Canada & Bermuda and cannot be reproduced without permission. Publications Mail Agreement No. 40064794
ISSN 1702-0131
Harold and the Purple Crayon, in theatres now, is a liveaction/animated fantasy film based on the 1955 children’s book of the same name, written by Crockett Johnson.
Protecting the Gift
The book tells the story of a young boy named Harold who can make anything come to life inside the book where he lives, just by drawing it with his magic purple crayon. In the film, Harold (Zachary Levi)
Drawing on Faith
We may not have a magic crayon like Harold, but we can create the life that God wants us to lead. by Diane Stark
is now a grown man, and he has drawn a door in his book that leads to the real world. Harold and his two friends, Moose (Lil Rel Howery) and Porcupine (Tanya Reynolds), go through the door.
Magically, Moose and Porcupine are transformed into human beings. At first, the trio have a blast, testing out Harold’s crayon in the real world. But soon, reality sets in and Harold realizes that real life isn’t all about fun and games. He gets a job in a department store where he
Photo: Columbia Pictures
drives his co-worker, Terry (Zooey Deschanel), crazy with his constant but creative hijinks.
He meets the mysterious Gary (Jemaine Clement) who tells him that his crayon is made of the rarest, most special ingredient in the world: pure imagination. He warns him that his crayon is valuable and in the wrong hands, it could destroy the world.
Will Harold and his friends be able to protect his gift—and the world?
Drawing a New Reality
Harold’s magic crayon gave him the ability to create the exact world he wanted. He could draw any item he wanted or use his crayon to improve any situation.
If we had a magic crayon, we
might be tempted to draw a big pile of cash for ourselves. Maybe a newer car, a bigger house or a better job. Maybe we’d use our crayon to change our circumstances and undo a poor decision from our past.
But we don’t have a magic crayon. We can’t simply draw ourselves into a better life. For us, real change is hard, and it takes time.
Right Time, Right Place
But God is the creator of the universe and the author of life. He spoke this world into existence. He said, “Let there be light,” and there was. He filled the land, the sea and the sky with animals, and He said that His creation was good. Then He made Adam and Eve and declared them to be very good.
It‘s a Bird ... Adventurous Harold can make anything come to life simply by drawing it
Photo: Columbia Pictures
We don’t need a magic crayon to draw a better life for ourselves. God designed us with a specific plan for our lives.
DIANE STARK
When God created each of us, He placed us in a specific situation of His choosing. Each of us was born in the exact year we were born because God chose it. We were born in the specific location we were born because God selected that. We were born to the parents we have because God decided that. We were created with specific physical characteristics that God chose for us. God made these decisions for us before we were born, and we had no control over any of it.
While we might wish we could change some of those things, God had His reasons for placing us in the time and place He did. And since then, we’ve made lots of decisions— both good and bad—that have led us to where we are now. And we probably all wish we could change a few of those things, too.
Following the Plan
But instead of wishing for that magic crayon to rewrite certain aspects of our story, we can look for ways that God can use us exactly where we are right now.
This might mean welcoming people into our home for a meal, even if we wish we had a magic crayon to add some square footage or draw a larger kitchen. It might mean being generous with our money, even if we’d love to take our magic crayon and draw a few more zeros on our bank balance. It might mean offering encouragement to someone who’s struggling, even when we wish we could draw ourselves into a different situation.
We don’t need a magic crayon to draw a better life for ourselves. God designed us with a specific plan for our lives. He placed us in the exact circumstances He did so that we would impact specific people through our jobs, our families, our churches and our communities. We each have a role to play in God’s kingdom, and we can do that right now, exactly where we are, through intentional kindness and boldly sharing God’s love with those around us.
We don’t need a magic purple crayon to create the life God wants us to lead. We can just draw on our faith.
Thank You, God
Can spiritual wisdom come from a child’s Sunday morning question?
by Geno Lawrenzi Jr.
My daughter, Rossana, her children, Josie and Harrison, and I attend church every week.
One Sunday morning, seven-yearold Josie and six-year-old Harrison were intently focusing on the family laptop while I was cooking bacon and eggs.
“Grandpa,” Josie said without taking her eyes off the screen, “how do you talk to God?”
Wow! What a question to ask a grandfather while he is preparing breakfast.
One Question, Many Answers
I placed my grandchildren’s plates on the table and tried to answer her question.
“There are several different ways to talk to God,” I said. “Pray to Him and tell Him what you want. But always add, ‘If it be Thy will.’ ”
Then a thought occurred to me.
“What do you think is more important—talking to God and asking Him for something, or listening to what He wants to say to you?”
Josie didn’t hesitate. “Listening
“God answers prayer in different ways. But He always responds when you pray from the heart.” GENO LAWRENZI JR.
to what God has to say.” Harrison’s head bobbed up and down in agreement.
“OK,” I continued. “That’s right. There are different ways to talk to God. Let’s say you need a job so you can earn some money to buy your mother a Christmas present. You pray to God for it. A couple of days later, somebody comes to you and says he needs some help in his store.
“Maybe you don’t realize it, but that is God’s way of answering your prayer.”
Josie’s eyes were ecstatic. “You mean, God answers my prayer through other people?”
“Sometimes. God answers prayer in different ways. But He always responds when you pray from the heart.”
They quickly finished their breakfast and then headed for the door.
“Where are you kids going?” I asked. “You don’t want to be late for Sunday school.”
“Don’t worry, Grandpa,” said Josie, with Harrison following her. “We’re going to talk to God.”
And they did.
Playing With God
The children went into the backyard while the autumn leaves were blowing around them. When they returned five minutes later, Harrison’s eyes were shining.
“Grandpa,” he told me excitedly, “God listened to us. Josie and I talked to Him and He changed the colours of the sky. It was so neat!
“And Josie asked Him to send a squirrel to us. He didn’t send a squirrel exactly, but one of our cats came running up. And then the sun moved.”
Josie said importantly, “I asked Him for a miracle. To show He was really listening. And He was, Grandpa. He really does listen.”
That was too much for this former sinner who is now a believer. I told them that was wonderful. They donned their coats and we headed off to church.
As we walked down the sidewalk, burnt golden leaves swirled around us.
The leaves were dancing in merry circles. Harrison smiled and grabbed a handful of leaves.
“God is playing with you,” I said. Harrison looked upward and said, “Thank You, God.”
Pride of Place Kylee proudly shows off her artwork
“Jesus Is My Jam!” I may be the teacher, but that day I was “schooled.”
by Corey Bladen
Iam a supply teacher and a member of The Salvation Army. Whenever I enter a school building, I am determined to make someone’s day better. That person could be a fiveyear-old, a teen or a retired teacher. For me, teaching is a ministry. Now, I can’t go around openly talking about my Christianity, but people do know who I am and what my faith represents. I pray my actions and attitude reflect me as a Christian and a Salvationist.
I love what I do—teaching was my dream and is my passion—but not every day goes well, and I do go home frustrated on occasion. However, those days fade away. But afternoons such as a recent Thursday more than make up for them.
Visual Testimony
I was teaching middle-school art. The students had been instructed to work on free-hand sketches of a topic of their choice, but the drawing
Photo: Courtesy of Corey Bladen
that one girl handed in completely floored me.
Kylee had been at a table with five other students, working away at their assignments. While her friends drew flowers, sports cars or sunsets, Kylee had quietly been busy doing something totally different, a work of art and witness.
Above a drawing of a smiling piece of toast, she had proudly emblazoned at the top of the page: “Jesus Is My Jam!”
powerful as any I have given at my Salvation Army church.
In Through the Out Door
When the class was over, I remember sitting at my desk and looking at her work, completely at a loss for words. The only thing I could think of was, “Huh!”
Here I was, a teacher being taught by a 14-year-old.
“God puts us in a place for a purpose.”
COREY
BLADEN
This girl was in a group of her peers. She could have hidden her faith and chosen to draw something—anything—else. Instead, Kylee drew from her heart, and as she passed her drawing along to her friends to hand in to the front of the class, she quietly gave a testimony as
Up to that point, I’d always looked to see how I could bring God into my teaching. That was not the case on that day. This was a reminder that God doesn’t just work through the adults in the room.
My lesson from this is not to assume I know how God is going to work through me, or that His only instrument in the classroom is me. It really isn’t about me.
God puts us in a place sometimes for a purpose that has nothing to do with us. Sometimes, all one is required to do is to be there.
Now, when I enter a situation, I open the door and let God go in first. Because sometimes, a 14-year-old will come in.
(left)
Corey Bladen attends Islandview Citadel, a Salvation Army church in Musgravetown, N.L., and has been a member of the Army since 1982. He and his wife, Trina, are the parents of three boys.
Winners Kyra Ducharme and Abigail Howard show off their prize cheque
A La Cart Marilyn vanDeursen gives a special guided tour of the Salvation Army food bank to Abigail and Kyra
LOCAL ONTARIO SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS WIN $5,000 FOR SALVATION ARMY FOOD BANK.
by Nathan Reid-Welford
When Abigail Howard started work on a class research project into The Salvation Army, little did she realize the effect it would have on her.
“It showed me how God is faithful through all the volunteers and all the work that gets done that sometimes goes unseen,” she says.
Together with classmate and friend Kyra Ducharme, the high school students not only underwent a learning experience, but their efforts and good work won $5,000 for the Salvation Army food bank in Orillia, Ont.
The Project
As the final assignment for their Grade 10 civics and careers class at Orillia Secondary School, Abigail and Kyra were tasked with researching a charity that shared their values, then presenting their findings to their class. With more than 200 students taking part, they were one of four teams selected to speak in front of a panel of judges made up of faculty and former finalists, after which they were awarded first place.
Youth and Philanthropy Initiative Canada partnered with Orillia Secondary School to provide the
funding, something they have done with the institution for seven years.
Though the first stage of the project was to search for and find a charity to research, the girls explained that they were set on The Salvation Army from the beginning. This was due to personal experience and the positive things they had heard about the organization.
Choosing The Salvation Army
Daughter of Captains Josh and Tina Howard, the pastors at Orillia Citadel, Abigail has always been around The Salvation Army. Having been involved with music and day camp programs, as well as having volunteered for family services, she’s begun giving her time to community interactions such as street ministry since moving to Orillia two years ago.
“That’s kind of a new thing for me,” she says. “I’ve been involved in The Salvation Army my whole life, but I haven’t always been superconnected to the different clients and people I’ve volunteered with.”
Abigail’s close connection and involvement with the church and its various initiatives has allowed her to see its work first-hand.
“I don’t think people realize all the different services The Salvation Army offers,” she explains. “Kyra and I wanted to showcase that.”
Kyra, though not a member of The Salvationist Army herself, encountered the Army through Abigail.
“We’ve been friends since the start of Grade 9. I hear about all the stuff she does with her church.”
This combined with her own passion for volunteering—primarily through children’s volleyball lessons and summer camps—made it easy to go ahead with Abigail’s suggestion that they choose The Salvation Army for their project.
“When we started researching more, I realized how much they do,” Kyra says. “We listened to some stories of people who have been impacted by The Salvation Army, and this really locked in our choice.”
Citadel of Hope Kyra and Abigail (top) with Captains Tina and Josh Howard and Marilyn vanDeursen
An Eye-Opening Experience
Over the course of the project, Abigail and Kyra delved into the social issues The Salvation Army helps with, what these programs are and how many people are impacted, as well as visited local programs to talk to people such as Marilyn vanDeursen, who works at the family services office in Orillia.
“She walked us through the facility and what they specifically do in a day there, and she gave us statistics of how many people they’ve helped over the last year,” recalls Kyra.
Through this in-depth process, they were shown needs in the community that are not always seen or widely addressed. Even Abigail, who has ample experience helping with Salvation Army programs, was unaware of the full scope.
“You don’t always realize how many people need these services
Photo: Greg Pestell
“I don’t think people realize all the different services The Salvation Army offers.”
ABIGAIL HOWARD
and how many people benefit from them or how essential they are for our community,” she says. “Having stats and more information opened my eyes.”
For Kyra, the experience created an even more favourable view of the church and charity organization. Though an empathetic person who “does not like seeing homelessness or the stereotypes that go with it,” Kyra admits that she is not someone who “likes just giving money and would rather buy homeless people a meal or talk to them,” things she believes can help steer them on a better path.
“This experience showed how The Salvation Army doesn’t just do the regular stuff,” Kyra continues. “They do more than other food banks or people handing out money or blankets. It made me want to be a part of that.”
Beyond the Classroom
Now that the project is complete, the impact from the students’ work is just beginning. With the $5,000 donation from Youth and Philanthropy Initiative Canada, The Salvation Army’s Orillia food bank plans to purchase fresh produce and other food items.
“A lot of people ask for things like milk, meat or vegetables,” Abigail explains. These commodities are things the food bank receives infrequently, are taken quickly, or that people often cannot afford at store locations.
The Salvation Army’s Orillia food bank experienced a 20.5 percent increase in assistance provided in 2023 compared to the previous year.
“Over the last several years, more and more people have faced hardship and needed our assistance,” shares Captain Josh. “We are grateful to be able to provide help and hope, and meet real and everyday needs for neighbours in our community. Through these funds, we’ll be able to offer fresh items that our guests are requesting.”
Abigail and Kyra intend to go shopping with food bank workers, to continue helping combat the suffering of people in Orillia.
“There’s a lot of need that goes unseen or flies under the radar,” Abigail says, reflecting on what she learned. “Seeing all the work The Salvation Army does to address that need—it’s been really inspiring and encouraging.”
The Fantastic Four
A QUARTET OF FELINES ARE CHANGING LIVES AT THE SALVATION ARMY’S EDMONTON CENTRE OF HOPE.
“I appreciate Dr. Bob. He has helped me a lot with my anxiety.”
Cody
“I love Dr. Bob! He has brought joy to my life.”
Edward
s : Courtesy of Edmonton Centre of Hope
THE TESTIMONIALS WOULD BE HEARTWARMING praise for any one person but Dr. Bob is no ordinary doctor. Whiskered, furry and four-legged, Dr. Bob is one of a quartet of cats who have been “hired” as live-in pet therapy animals by The Salvation Army’s Edmonton Centre of Hope.
Important Findings
Research has shown how much support and calm animals can bring to individuals. Numerous studies indicate that interacting with animals decreases levels of cortisol, a stress-related hormone, and lowers blood pressure. Owning a pet can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support and boost mood.
“We’d wanted to acquire a therapy cat at our recovery house for a number of years,” says Vanessa Sim, assistant executive director at the Centre of Hope. “We thought that our 24-bed Keystone program, which provides sober living for men, would be a great place to start.”
Photo
Enter Dr. Bob, a Devon rex who joined The Salvation Army early last year, named after one of the co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Bob Smith.
Staff and clients soon started referring to the fact that “the doctor was in.”
“He’s a pretty great cat,” says Vanessa. “Dr. Bob has the biggest personality; he’s the most confident, personable cat you’ll ever meet.
“Actually, within a couple of months, we found out that Dr. Bob is deaf, so he comes with some challenges, but he’s also taken really good care of by the individuals that live there, and they all love him.”
“The Doctor Is In” Edward with Dr. Bob
The black-and-white tuxedo cat was acquired by the Grace Village supportive housing centre through the Edmonton Humane Society for the grand total of $10.
The bargain-basement price was due to the fact that Freddie was their longest standing resident, and he was having difficulty getting adopted.
“There wasn’t a family large enough to keep Freddie stimulated,” says Vanessa. “So Freddie found a family of 72 individuals plus staff, and is just doing awesome now.”
Finding a Family Glenn cradles Freddie
DR. BOB
FREDDIE
WILSON
“Once Cornerstone, our women’s recovery counterpart, found out that the Keystone had a cat, they wanted a cat, too,” says Vanessa.
The breeder who supplied Dr. Bob offered Wilson, named after the other co-founder of AA, Bill Wilson.
It turns out that Wilson is a sibling of Dr. Bob.
“He’s been a delightful addition,” says Vanessa.
Grace Manor also wanted their own cat, but finding the right type of cat for the senior pop ulation was important.
As it happens, one of the staff members owns a short-haired Persian who had a litter of kittens, and so grumpy-faced Leroy joined the crew.
“The breed is very docile, not high energy,” says Vanessa. “They’re really lazy cats, so he’s perfect.”
“Leroy is already a big cat for a kitten and he literally just lumbers into the circle at rec time, sits in a chair and watches everyone. And he gets pushed around in a stroller. He is the king of Grace Manor.”
“Everyone looks forward to his arrival,” says Alix Norum, recreation therapy manager for Grace Manor. “The seniors all consider Leroy their cat, which is very special.”
“Leroy’s our family,” they say.
Photo s : Courtesy of Edmonton Centre of Hope
One Grumpy Feline Rosella plays with Leroy
LEROY
“Where’s Freddie?”
“It almost feels as if each cat was meant to be here,” comments Vanessa. “They really do seem to be perfect fits for each site and the needs of the individuals served at those sites, because they do vary from recovery to supported housing to seniors. Seeing God’s hand in the cats that ended up with us is pretty beautiful. And as the Creator of the animals, God knew who needed to be where.”
More than just pets, the cats have profoundly impacted each and every life at the Centre of Hope.
“Many of our residents isolate in their rooms,” says Rachel Wells, resident-care manager for Grace Village. “But since we got Freddie, I’m seeing them out a lot more to check on him. I always hear,
(bottom right) Purr-fect Rachel Wells, Vanessa Sim and Alix Norum with their “staff”
‘Where’s Freddie? How’s Fred?’ It’s become part of their daily routine. They’re coming out of their room more—to see Fred!”
And many of the residents have started to open up to the staff.
“One client who never opens up or talks has now started having conversations with me about his childhood, and how he had pets when he was a kid,” says Rachel. “So we’re getting to know them better because Freddie is part of their lives.”
Once, the staff brought Dr. Bob to supported housing for a visit. Megan, one of the participants, sat petting the cat for 15 minutes, tears streaming down her face.
“Megan, are you able to talk about what’s going on?” she was asked.
“I can’t,” she replied, “but it just feels nice to be with this cat.”
(left) The Real Top Cat Elaina holds Wilson
Photo s: Courtesy of Edmonton Centre of Hope
“We don’t usually see Megan like that,” comments Rachel. “That was a very beautiful, calm, sweet moment that she had with this cat. And now she comes every day looking for him.”
Therapy in Action
With four working cats—each one has their own profile in the Centre of Hope client database—demand for felines for the other programs is high.
“We want to acquire more cats,” says Vanessa, “but we don’t have any plans at this time to add more.”
Why not?
“There’s an expense associated with the cats,” Vanessa explains. “We estimate that it costs about $3,000 a year per cat, factoring food, veterinarian expenses and upkeep. So we hope that our story will inspire potential sponsors to step up and help.
“We want people to know that the cats are really for the benefit of our participants,” she continues. “That is why we have them, not because they’re cute and we like cats. We really were intentional about their acquisition. They are providing vital therapy to our participants—and we’re seeing that in action every day.”
“It feels like each cat was meant to be here.”
VANESSA SIM
Hunter’s Food Drive
EIGHT-YEAR-OLD’S INITIATIVE BENEFITS
THE SALVATION ARMY.
by Nathan Reid-Welford
In February, eight-year-old Hunter Mackay travelled around his hometown of Fort St. John, B.C., collecting non-perishable items for the Salvation Army food bank. With the help of his mother, Jolene Mackay, they donated 300 pounds worth of food, as well as toiletries and cash.
Banking for Help
The idea for Hunter’s food drive began when he and his mother were
going through his room to gather items for the local Salvation Army thrift store.
“I asked my mom what it was for,” Hunter says. “She explained that they provide food and clothes to people who really need help as well as places to stay and sleep. I was sad, but I was also happy that we could help.”
When Hunter asked if he could give the organization all their own food, Jolene smiled and said no but
Ready to Roll Hunter Mackay proudly displays his food-drive poster
“I want to do lots more and see if I can get some other kids to help, too.”
HUNTER MACKAY
suggested they organize a food drive. Hunter excitedly agreed.
Such willingness to give is not uncharacteristic of Hunter, Jolene says. Being diagnosed with ADHD which makes him “love to talk, move and have big emotions”—has been “overwhelming for a kid his age” and has caused him to be a bit of an outsider at times.
“This has made Hunter deeply empathetic for the suffering of others,” she explains. “He prays every night, and his prayers always include the safety and well-being of others. He donates to everything he can, sometimes asking for money, but often giving everything from his own piggy bank.”
All in the Family
Though Hunter’s desire to help others derives partially from his own experience, it has also been passed down by his family.
Before moving to Fort St. John, Jolene had a robust volunteer resumé as a soccer coach, Girl Guide leader and an organizer for Relay for Help, a cancer fundraiser. Since relocating, she has fostered rescue animals, been involved in organizing drives for the local women’s resource centre and the Baby’s Best Chance program. She has
also started My Special Time With Santa, an initiative that provides a safe and quiet space for children with different needs and abilities to meet Santa without the pressure of large crowds and time constraints.
When considering her own efforts, Jolene sums up her mindset.
“Over the last couple of decades, I’ve discovered that, when I’m feeling down, helping makes me feel better. It’s a lot harder to feel sorry for yourself when you realize what an impact you can make for others.”
Jolene is thankful for the help and support she has received in her life—especially through a traumatic pregnancy after becoming a mother at an early age.
“I’ve tried to make sure I give back, and I teach my kids to give back as much as possible.”
Leading the Way
After walking around collecting items all day, Hunter admits that he was tired. However, despite some nerves at the first house on their route, he described the event as “fun.”
He took the lead and did the talking, taking a poster he and Jolene designed to each house to explain why they were organizing a food drive.
“I showed everyone the poster, so they didn’t think I was just a really hungry kid,” Hunter smiles.
Along the way, he got to pet many dogs, and he helped sort the food onto shelves afterward.
The Mackays’ efforts were supported by the local newspaper and radio station, which caught wind of their initiative and promoted it. The local Salvation Army also offered to help in any way.
Hunter initially thought The Salvation Army was only about the kettles at Christmastime, which he thought were “neat,” but when Jolene told him how the organization helped people, he wanted to give them as much as he could.
“I didn’t know The Salvation Army was a church until now,” he explains, something that was “awesome” to discover.
Keeping the Drive Alive Hunter and his mother, Jolene, at the food bank with Jared Braun, executive director of The Salvation Army in Fort St. John, B.C.
Faith
The Mackays are a family of faith and attend a local church. Hunter proudly and unabashedly proclaims that he “loves God” and that God is very important to his family.
Though not directly connected to The Salvation Army, Jolene has seen its “incredible presence in town,” something that drew her to send the proceeds from Hunter’s food drive to its food pantry.
“I know The Salvation Army has made a huge impact here and I’m glad we could contribute to that in even a small way.”
The Drive for Another Drive
Excited by the success of the food drive and eager to continue, Hunter hoped to repeat the process the following weekend.
Jolene, however, advised him to plan for a larger event in the fall to help families after buying school supplies.
“I feel really proud, but I’m also sad that people need help and don’t always get what they need,” Hunter says, reflecting on the food drive. “I want to do lots more and see if I can get some other kids to help, too.”
To lend your support to the mission and ministry of The Salvation Army, visit salvationarmy.ca/donations.
If I Became a Christian …
… could I still be me?
by Janice Keats
The Bible teaches that when we turn from our old ways and into the new life, we become transformed into God’s image. We’ve turned from our own ways of decision-making to living a new life for God following His way. “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person.
The old life is gone; a new life has begun” (2 Corinthians 5:17 New Living Translation).
But what happens after that?
We are still the same person, but our thoughts have been completely renewed. We experience peace, grace, new life, a sense of forgiveness toward people, and so much more.
Happy at Last A new life began for Janice Keats when she became a person of faith
Photo: Courtesy of Janice Keats
Will any of my family and friends understand the new me? JANICE KEATS
Missing Piece
I recall what my life was like prior to my decision to become a Christian. I was making my way around the world in which I lived just fine. I loved the nightlife and lived for the weekends to hang out at the bars with my friends. There were many times that I even had strong desires to own my very own nightclub! It didn’t come to fruition, but it was still a dream. As I reflect, it’s hard to believe I even entertained the thought of building on my former dream.
That was me! That was my life that I enjoyed.
That was then.
Now that I look back, I realize how lonely I was at times. It’s true what people say when they have an encounter with God: “There was that missing piece in my life.”
“I’m Still Me”
I remember walking into a nightclub one evening to see my daughters, Sharlene and Jolene, who are singers, perform live on stage in front of a packed audience.
Walking in through the doors of this nightclub was eerie, to say the least. I walked past a roaring crowd of intoxicated people clanging beer glasses to find a place near the stage.
While I enjoyed the performance, I knew it was no longer a place for me to frequent. The new me wasn’t comfortable in that setting. Sometimes I chuckle as I reflect because I never thought this new lifestyle would ever occur.
My friends certainly missed the old me and, as a result, I spent time with them less frequently.
The result of this change, though, was involvement in church
Photo: Courtesy of Janice Keats
Proud Mom Janice with her daughters, Sharlene (left) and Jolene
activities and new opportunities. I’ve developed leadership skills, and I’ve started a new career. I’m still me with a different outlook on life.
My sister once said to me, “Jan, you’re still a party animal, but just in a different party.”
It’s true. I continue to be the upbeat jovial person that I am, but life takes on a new meaning when you learn and grow in the knowledge of God. I belong to Him, and God is near to me to provide peace and joy always.
“Come
as You Are”
The Bible says to be transformed by the renewing of your mind (see Romans 12:1). We know we can’t go back to infancy and start over again. But we can begin a new life in Christ at any time when the decision is made. This newly changed life with God will lead us in all truth and righteous living.
What does it mean to be changed? Spiritually speaking, it is allowing God to have all there is of me. It is building a relationship, getting to know Him through reading His Word and discovering the message of love and eternal life.
When these changes occur, our old lifestyle is no longer the same. Why would it be? The transformation has taken place.
But what does that mean, really? Can I remain as I am? Will my mind be totally renewed? Or do I become transformed at the point of my surrender to God? Will any of my family and friends understand the new me?
“My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So, I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me” (Galatians 2:20 New Living Translation).
As a new Christian, I will lack no good thing. God says to come as you are. “Come to Me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
He dwells within us. Therefore, we have companionship, guidance and eternal life as a new focus. We meet, we engage together in prayer, and He is always within reach. He speaks to us through His Word and through prayer. He is our trusted friend, and He promises so much as we live for Him.
(left)
Janice Keats is the emergency disaster services trainer for The Salvation Army’s Atlantic Division. Residing in Conception Bay South, N.L., she has authored three books and is actively engaged in sharing her faith story.
Eating Healthy With Erin
BACON CHEDDAR CAULIFLOWER SMASH
TIME 30 min MAKES 3-4 servings SERVE WITH chicken
750 ml (3 cups) cauliflower florets
125 ml (½ cup) cooked bacon, diced
30 ml (2 tbsp) olive oil
5 ml (1 tsp) garlic powder
2.5 ml (½ tsp) paprika
1 ml (¼ tsp) salt black pepper to taste
250 ml (1 cup) shredded cheddar cheese
15 ml (1 tbsp) fresh chives
1. Preheat oven to 200 C (400 F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large pot of salted water, boil and cook cauliflower until fork-tender, about 5 minutes. The cauliflower should be slightly undercooked.
3. Cook bacon in pan until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
4. Remove florets and toss in bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper.
5. Arrange florets on the lined baking sheet and, using a fork or a glass, press down to “smash” the cauliflower. Top with cheese and bacon.
6. Cook for 15 minutes, and then plate and garnish with chives.
DRIED FRUIT AND HONEY GRANOLA BARS
TIME 20 min MAKES 16 bars SERVE WITH coffee or tea
625 ml (2½ cups) rolled oats
60 ml (¼ cup) unsalted butter
80 ml (1/3 cup) pure honey
2.5 ml (½ tsp) vanilla extract
15 ml (1 tbsp) chia seeds
60 ml (¼ cup) shredded coconut
60 ml (¼ cup) dried fruit of choice
1. Preheat oven to 180 C (350 F). Line a 22-cm (9-in.) pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Add rolled oats to baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes. Stir, bake for another 3 minutes and then transfer to a large mixing bowl.
3. In another pan, combine butter, honey and vanilla extract over medium heat until it bubbles, about 3 minutes.
4. Pour mixture over oats. Add chia seeds, shredded coconut and dried fruit. Mix well. Allow to cool for 5 minutes.
5. Transfer mixture to prepared pan and press firmly with a spatula for 2 minutes so that the bars will stay together.
6. Cover and chill in refrigerator for 2 hours, then remove the block of granola from the parchment paper and cut into 16 bars.
QUICK QUIZ
1. What is toxicology the study of?
2. What holiday was first celebrated in 1621 in Plymouth, Massachusetts?
3. What number does the Roman numeral LXVII represent?
• inspiring true stories of hope and salvation • practical resources that will rejuvenate your spirit • uplifting articles that you can share with friends
by Kevin Frank
Ring in the Fall!
Create home décor using upcycled or found-in-the-wild materials.
Supplies Needed:
Thrifted paper, wallpaper or fabric; Mod Podge and a brush or a glue gun and glue sticks; dried or plastic leaves or flowers; ribbon, cord or rope; scissors; chalk; ruler; paper for pattern.
2
Bunting is an easy and fun way to add colour and festivity to your day-to-day scenery, inside or outside your home.
Step 1 Visit your local Salvation Army thrift store to source your materials. I found a lovely textured wallpaper that I thought would hang well since it’s heavier than regular paper.
For the items you want to feature on your base, you can either use dried leaves, or thrift some reusable leaves or flowers.
Step 2 First, I created a pattern for my base. I thought I would cut one piece of wallpaper that I could fold over the cord I chose for hanging my autumn garland. The pattern I made was 15 centimetres (six inches) in width, 20 centimetres (eight inches) in height. Then I cut out the base of my pieces to create a flag shape. This was five centimetres (two inches) in depth from the bottom.
I drew out the pattern on the back of my wallpaper, then cut out four shapes. You can use more or less, depending on how long you want your bunting.
Step 3 Once my bases were cut, I folded them in half and placed my feature pieces on top. I measured where to place them so all my flags were the same size.
I found lovely, gold-accented paper flowers with wire stems that matched perfectly with the wallpaper. All I needed to do was cut a very tiny hole and slide the wire stems through, then use duct tape over the wire to hold the flowers in place.
Step 4 To hang my flags, I measured 75 centimetres (30 inches) from the end of the rope and then brushed Mod Podge on the inside of each flag where I had folded the paper. I placed the rope on top of the glue, folded the wallpaper over the Mod Podge and rope, then used clips to hold the wallpaper together while the glue dried.
Optional: I added more pizzazz to the flags and used some scrap lavender/gold rickrack trim above the flowers.
Step 5 Next I added my other flags. I measured 15 centimetres (six inches) between each flag and followed Step 4 for each flag. After my last flag was glued to the rope, I measured another 75 centimetres (30 inches) of rope, then cut the rope.
Allow to dry. Once dry you can now hang up your autumn bunting.
(left) Denise Corcoran (aka Thrifty By Design) is an author, upcycler, community builder and workshop facilitator based in North Vancouver. She shares her enthusiasm for crafting and upcycling by facilitating “Crafternoons” throughout Vancouver. She is also a creative expert for The Salvation Army’s thrift stores. Find a thrift store near you at thriftstore.ca.
