Faith & Friends October 2019 by The Salvation Army

Father of the Bride

BILL’S QUEST P.12

Helping the Army

CUBIC COMPASSION P.22

A Place of Safety

PET THERAPY P.10

Faith&Friends I N S P I R AT I O N F O R L I V I N G

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Sometimes an important message can be staring us in the face but we just don’t get it. Take a good look at the eye chart. Is there a message there for you? “We live by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). When the Apostle Paul wrote this in a letter to the

Christians of Corinth, Greece, he was proclaiming how our bedrock belief in God will carry us through. This is not a blind or an ignorant faith; instead, it is a courageous confidence that God can change and save lives. So check out that eye chart again. There’s more to life than meets the eye.

To find out about God’s message of faith, visit our website (www.faithandfriends.ca) or contact us at: The Salvation Army Editorial Department, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto ON M4H 1P4

October 2019

VOLUME 22 NUMBER 10

SOMEONE CARES 5 A Miner for Hearts

For more than three decades, Dennis Miner has volunteered with The Salvation Army. WORDS TO LIVE BY 8 Three Words

How a greeting card changed Phil Callaway’s life. COMMON GROUND

10 A Place of Safety

Pet therapy improves quality of life at Glenbrook Lodge for Senior Citizens in St. John’s, N.L. FEATURES

COVER STORY

Cover photo: Courtesy of Sony Pictures Releasing

Father of the Bride

Bill wanted to walk his daughter down the aisle. The Toronto Grace team gave him hope.

Mister Rogers’ Lifetime of Helping

When a cynical journalist receives an assignment to profile a beloved children’s TV star, his own life is turned inside out.

Cubing for a Cause

A Bradford, Ont., boy holds a unique event to help those in need. LITE STUFF 24 Eating Healthy With Erin

Sudoku, Quick Quiz, Word Search. BEYOND BORDERS 27 Beyond the Beaches

The Salvation Army is making an impact in the Bahamas. NIFTY THRIFTY 31 Marvelous Mittens

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FROM THE EDITOR

A True Neighbour

or longtime Faith & Friends contributor Jeanette Levellie, the chance to work on the new Mister Rogers movie starring Tom Hanks, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, was a dream assignment. “I started watching Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood when my husband, Kevin, and I were first married, a couple of years before we had any kids,” says Jeanette. “I loved Fred Rogers’ gentle demeanor and soft voice. I believe all of us have some leftover child inside and Mister Rogers appealed to those insecurities, helping me build confidence as a young wife and mother. “When our children came along,” she continues, “they fell in love with him, too. Then, later, my grandchildren. “Now, my husband and I watch reruns of the old shows! I always learn something from Fred— what to do with my anger, how to help a new friend feel comfortable, even how to find new ways to play! Mister Rogers reminds me of Jesus.” Jeanette’s article is on page 16. How about you? How did Fred Rogers make a difference in your life? We want to hear all about it! Write, text or email your reminiscences and we’ll publish them in a future issue. Elsewhere in this issue of Faith & Friends, you’ll find out what three words changed funnyman Phil Callaway’s life, you’ll see how The Salvation Army is changing lives in the Bahamas, and you’ll read how the devoted staff at the Toronto Grace Health Centre helped the father of a brideto-be fulfil her one wish for her wedding. Ken Ramstead

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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 monthly by: The Salvation Army 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto Ontario, M4H 1P4 International Headquarters 101 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4P 4EP, England William and Catherine Booth FOUNDERS

Brian Peddle, GENERAL Commissioner Floyd Tidd TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

Lt-Colonel John P. Murray SECRETARY FOR COMMUNICATIONS Geoff Moulton, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ken Ramstead, EDITOR

Brandon Laird SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Hannah Saley DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Pamela Richardson, COPY EDITOR, PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR

Ada Leung CIRCULATION CO-ORDINATOR

Kristin Ostensen STAFF WRITER, PROOFREADER

Giselle Randall STAFF WRITER 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@can.salvationarmy.org Subscription for one year: Canada $17 (includes GST/HST); U.S. $22; foreign $24 P. (416) 422-6119 circulation@can.salvationarmy.org All articles are copyright The Salvation Army Canada & Bermuda and cannot be reproduced without permission. Publications Mail Agreement No. 40064794 ISSN 1702-0131

Faith&Friends

SOMEONE CARES

A Miner for Hearts For more than three decades, Dennis Miner has volunteered with The Salvation Army’s street ministry in Parry Sound, Ont. by Sarah Bissonette

Welcome Friend Friday nights find Salvation Army volunteer Dennis Miner on the streets of Parry Sound, Ont., lending an ear and handing out food and drinks

ennis Miner has a tattoo on his arm that includes the word “love.” Even while trying to be a rebel teen, as he describes it, his kindness shone through. Decades have passed since

Dennis’ rebel days, but he’s still full of love for others. Needed Contact For 43 years, Dennis has dedicated his time to The Salvation Army’s Rainbow Country Church in Parry

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SOMEONE CARES

Sound, Ont., with 31 years of watching over the community’s youth and disadvantaged through the church’s street ministry. While he has four children, 13 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, the number of kids who call him “poppa” after years as a foster parent and volunteering isn’t one he can tally. Friday nights, you’ll find him with The Salvation Army’s street ministry team, giving aid in the form of food and company to those in need. Parked at Market Square Park, the Salvationists hand out coffee, hot chocolate and snacks, along with a hot dish varying weekly from hotdogs to spaghetti and casseroles. The

“Home” Dennis Miner is the corps sergeantmajor at Rainbow Country Church, the first point of contact for chuch members after the pastors

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average night has 75 people stopping by, ranging in age from four to 94. “What impresses me most is the kids,” says Dennis. “A lot of them are hungry. But the first thing they want is a hug, then they might decide to get something to eat. They want that contact. “I can remember a girl one night years ago. She came down there crying. When I asked what was the matter, she said, ‘I had an argument with my parents. They don’t love me but I know you guys do,’ she said, ‘so this is why I came down.’ ” Gathering Point It started with Dennis on the streets, talking to kids hanging about, and

“ A police officer said we’re as good as two squad cars; we see so many kids downtown and we can keep an eye on them better.” DENNIS MINER

Reprinted from Gravenhurst Banner, November 29, 2018

morphed into something more formal with the church van, later upgraded to a motorhome, as a gathering point. “A police officer said we’re as good as two squad cars; we see so many kids downtown and we can keep an eye on them better,” says Dennis. It may seem strange to those who haven’t known him for long that Dennis hasn’t always been a member of The Salvation Army. He came to it later in life when he visited Rainbow Country Church one Easter. “I came here and, well, this is home,” he says. More Than a Cleaner The son of Parry Sound Police Sergeant Stan Miner—who’d set up a boxing ring in 1949 to keep local boys occupied—Dennis graduated from Parry Sound High School before going on to work at the Georgian Bay Creamery and marrying his wife, Maureen, at 20. From there he moved on to a posting with the CN Railway farther north before returning and eventually taking a janitorial position at Whitestone and McDougall elementary schools.

But Dennis was much more than the school cleaner. He also tutored kids on computers and taught them carpentry. “I hurried up and cleaned for seven hours and spent about four or five hours with the kids,” he says, laughing at the memory. Role Model Along with the street ministry, Dennis also volunteers through The Salvation Army’s emergency disaster services to provide food, spiritual care and immediate housing during dire circumstances, such as a major fire. He is also the corps sergeant-major at Rainbow Country Church, the first point of contact for church members after the pastors. In 2017, he was awarded the Order of Parry Sound but he also values other items of positive feedback, including this piece of praise that a man posted recently on social media: “You were a role model for the type of man I wanted to be,” he said. “I will be eternally grateful.” Sarah Bissonette is a reporter with the Parry Sound North Star.

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WORDS TO LIVE BY

Photo: vchalup/stock.Adobe.com

Faith&Friends

Three Words I was terrified of public speaking, until a greeting card changed my life. by Phil Callaway

s it possible to make someone smile with three words? I think so. How about “Hot apple pie”? “Come for supper”? “Let’s go eat”? It sounds as if I have a bit of a thing for food. Maybe I do. Is it possible to tell a three-word joke? Let me try. The only threeword jokes I know are bad puns, so bear with me. Bakers knead dough. Gloves are handy. Drillers are boring. Teachers have class. Fleas bug me.

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Tailors suit me. I apologize. Perhaps the only thing tougher to find than a three-word joke is a three-word joke that’s funny. Some three-word combinations are lethal: “Told you so.” I’m glad my wife hasn’t said this since 1984. But she has said, “You are wrong.” She was right. “You are cheap.” Guilty as charged. I prefer hearing, “Come kiss me.” “I forgive you.” “I brought sandwiches.” There’s that food thing again.

I love hearing, “Fifty-percent discount.” “Three-day weekend.” “I ordered pizza.” I love it when my wife says, “You’re the best.” “I forgive you.” “I like you a lot.” Wait, that was five words. Eye-Popping Phrase About 25 years ago, three words changed me. When I started writing, public speaking and flying were my top fears. But publicists would send me to visit TV studios and tell audiences about my books. I travelled alone, scared out of my mind, strapped in a metal tube, headed places I hadn’t been to meet people I hadn’t met. One memorable day on an American Airlines flight, I pulled out a greeting card I’d stuffed in my briefcase the night before. My mother had given it to me. It contained no money, but its contents were priceless. There was a Bible verse about God going with us wherever we go. Below it, Mom had written these words: “Dear Son, Dad and I are praying for you. God has allowed you to be such a blessing. We’re so thankful you get to

do this. Love, Mom.” Three words popped out at me: “You get to.” I honestly don’t think I’d be doing what I’m doing today were it not for those three words, which began to permeate my thinking and reconfigure my attitude. God has allowed me to do this. Thousands would love to. I don’t have to. I get to. Life can be filled with “I have to’s” or “I get to’s.” I wonder what our days would look like if we embraced the latter attitude each morning. If we woke up and said, “Thank You, God. I don’t have to go work, I get to. I don’t have to parent these crazy teens, I get to. I don’t have to take out the garbage, I get to. “ The central message of the Bible can be summed up in three words: God so loved. “God so loved the world,” says John 3:16, “that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” We are loved. All is well. Why so serious? God is bigger. Love conquers all. Thank You, Lord.

(left) Phil Callaway’s Laugh Again radio program airs 700 times a week in Canada. Visit him at laughagain.org.

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Faith&Friends

COMMON GROUND

A Place of Safety Pet therapy improves quality of life at The Salvation Army’s Glenbrook Lodge for Senior Citizens in St. John’s, N.L. by Linda Leigh

Comforting Paws “Holding, rocking and caring for a pet provides comfort and attachment that reduces anxiety and stress,” says Nicole Butt

ost pet owners know that being in the presence of an animal is soothing and can bring much joy. But for people with dementia, the interaction with a pet means so much more. Stress Reducer “At The Salvation Army’s Glenbrook Lodge for Senior Citizens, a longterm care facility in St. John’s, N.L., pet therapy is improving the quality of life for people who experience behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia,” says Nicole

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Butt, behaviour management specialist. Whether it’s a big, mellow dog or a robotic cat, the pets who visit Glenbrook Lodge are therapeutic for individuals living with dementia. “Dementia is the shrinking of the brain and loss of connections,” Nicole explains. “This disconnect can cause anxiety, depression, social isolation, and physical and verbal aggression. These symptoms typically impact 90 percent of people with dementia.” Animal-assisted therapy is pro-

“ We want to help individuals who struggle with dementia in a therapeutic way.” NICOLE BUTT vided by trained, certified pets and their handlers and research shows that cuddling, stroking or playing with a pet significantly improves the mental, social, emotional and physical symptoms associated with dementia. “I’ve witnessed people wandering the halls looking for parents who have passed; a resistance to nursing staff who provide personal care; and residents who hit people when they come close,” says Nicole. “Holding, rocking and caring for a pet provides comfort and attachment that reduces anxiety and stress.”

HEAVEN’S LOVE THRIFT SHOP by Kevin Frank

A Loving Facility “We want to help individuals

who struggle with dementia in a therapeutic way,” continues Nicole. “With this in mind, we are moving away from using pharmacological approaches and, instead, using animals to provide a sense of purpose and emotional support that alleviates depression without medication.” The mission of Glenbrook Lodge is to provide a high standard of client-centred care for all residents and support for their families. “When I walk through the doors of Glenbrook Lodge, there is a vibe I can’t describe,” says Nicole. “There is nothing institutional about this facility. It portrays a sense of belonging, safety and love.”

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FEATURE

Photo: Neustockimages; Stock.com via Getty Images

Faith&Friends

Father of the Bride

I WASN’T SURE I’D BE ABLE TO WALK MY DAUGHTER DOWN THE AISLE, BUT THE TEAM AT THE TORONTO GRACE GAVE ME HOPE. by Bill

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Bill was 37 when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, a neurodegenerative disease (see box on page 15). Now 71, he’d had it for almost half his life. As the disease progressed, so did the challenges he faced, but his spirit remained unshakeable. Bill was admitted to The Salvation Army Toronto Grace Health Centre (TGHC) and its complex continuing care unit in January 2013, when his condition was such that he could no longer stay with his wife, Esther, at their nursing home. It was with the support of his daughter, Emily, who has been instrumental in keeping the family together, that he was able to share his story about the quality of care he received there: Overall Support My goal when I arrived at the TGHC was specific—I wanted to return to the nursing home so I could be with my wife. TGHC ’s nursing and inter-professional health team respected my decision, working with me on my general physical rehabilitation so I wouldn’t develop muscle atrophy, and I could maintain my independence. I was slowly weaned off my tracheostomy tube, spending a few short hours every day without it. The

tube would be capped, cutting off air circulation and prompting me to breathe on my own. The nurses would monitor my breathing for shortness of breath, a good cough and no phlegm problems.

“ My preparations were supposed to be secret but I think Emily knew what was going on.” BILL

The nurses and health team were outstanding. They were just as determined as I was for me to improve my health so that I could return to my wife. In my rehabilitation program, Laura, my physiotherapist, helped me retain my mobility. I was already able to transfer from my wheelchair to a bed or walker. She worked with me on moving my limbs, helping to maintain and improve my flexibility, balance and strength. faithandfriends.ca I OCTOBER 2019

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FEATURE

Dori, my occupational therapist, re-customized my wheelchair. A new back accommodated my kyphosis (hunched back) and rigid posture, and the back cushion was designed with an opening that helped me avoid a pressure wound on my back. I also took part in recreational therapy programs such as tai chi and seated yoga. Besides helping me maintain my physical abilities, recreational therapy is a good place to meet other patients and socialize. I’ve also enjoyed many conversations with the nurses and health team. I’ve developed some wonderful friendships at the TGHC. I do see my wife, Esther, when our daughter, Emily, is able to organize a rendezvous at her apartment, the nursing home or here at the TGHC. I know the logistics of our visits take a certain amount of preparation 14 • OCTOBER 2019 I faithandfriends.ca

and planning, and I am thankful to everyone at the TGHC for their support because I really look forward to these visits. Here Comes the Bride My daughter, Emily, was married in July 2014 in Gatineau, Que., the same place where Esther and I were married 46 years ago. Emily’s special request was that I walk her down the aisle. My goal was to fulfil my daughter’s wish and I had eight months to prepare. There were many questions. What type of flooring would I be walking on? What type of shoes would I be wearing? On which side of the bride was I going to be? Together, Dori, my occupational therapist, and Laura, my physiotherapist, helped me with my pacing because, like most Parkinsonians, I shuffle quickly when I walk due

Wedding Wish Bill was determined to walk his daughter, Emily, down the aisle

to my rigidity. I used a cane and worked on maintaining balance, strength and mobility. Due to patient relocation while TGHC ’s renovations were taking place, in March 2014, Michelle, my new occupational therapist, and Barbara, my new physiotherapist, began working with me and continued to provide the same quality of care in helping me achieve my goal of walking Emily down the aisle. I practised with both therapists supporting me on one side as I balanced myself with a cane. Everyone did an outstanding job.

Reprinted from www.torontograce.org

What is Parkinson’s? Parkinson’s causes progressive motor disability, which begins with a tremor and loss of normal arm movement. Articulation of speech becomes worse as co-ordinating the tongue, jaw and lips grows more difficult. Over time, the body’s trunk becomes rigid and walking degenerates, resulting in small, shuffling steps. Gradually, the ability to initiate and control one’s limbs is lost, and those afflicted are locked inside rigid, trembling and unresponsive bodies. Despite the deterioration, few with the disease suffer cognitive impairment, and so are fully aware of their deteriorating physical functions.

As the father of the bride, I wanted to give a speech. Three or four times a week, I met with Ashley, a speech-language assistant, and Lisa, a speech-language pathologist, to work on it. My penmanship is limited, which makes writing difficult. Sometimes, I was able to communicate what I wanted to say; other times, we used an alphabet communication board. It was hard work, but because of Ashley and Lisa’s commitment, we succeeded in writing a father-of-the-bride speech. My preparations were supposed to be secret but I think Emily knew what was going on. The wedding was a success. I walked Emily down the aisle and, at the reception, my brother-in-law read my speech. It was liberating to be with my family, and I was thrilled to have made the journey so I could be with Esther to celebrate this wonderful occasion and create another memory in a place that made us both happy. I think that was Emily’s goal. This wouldn’t have happened without the TGHC ’s nurses and health team, and their outstanding dedication and hard work; the care they provide is special. Bill passed away earlier this year. faithandfriends.ca I OCTOBER 2019

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Faith&Friends

COVER STORY

Mister Rogers’ Lifetime of Helping WHEN A CYNICAL JOURNALIST RECEIVES AN ASSIGNMENT TO PROFILE A BELOVED CHILDREN’S TV STAR, HIS OWN LIFE IS TURNED INSIDE OUT. by Jeanette Levellie 16 • OCTOBER 2019 I faithandfriends.ca

Quiet Icon Tom Hanks stars as Fred Rogers in A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. Fred created all the characters, both puppet and human, and played most of the major puppet roles in his Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

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COVER STORY

hborhood regulars The Real Deal: Mister Rogers’ Neig with Fred pose lin Aber Lady and Mr. Mcfeely

WHEN ESQUIRE JOURNALIST Lloyd Vogel receives an assignment to profile Fred Rogers, the iconic creator of the PBS children’s program Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, he balks. How can someone who tells children, “I like you just the way you are,” be real? So begins TriStar Pictures’ A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, in theatres next month. Tom Hanks stars as the beloved Mister Rogers while Matthew Rhys (The Americans) portrays the Esquire journalist. A Real Hero When Lloyd shares his thoughts with his wife, Andrea (Susan Kelechi Watson, This Is Us), she begs him not to ruin her childhood by writing 18 • OCTOBER 2019 I faithandfriends.ca

a disparaging exposé. During the interview, Lloyd asks Fred Rogers if he considers himself a hero. The minister-turned-TVstar replies, “We are trying to give the world ways to deal with their feelings.” With doubts about his own foray into fatherhood and upsetting memories from his past, Lloyd is painfully familiar with ugly feelings. “Sometimes we have to ask for help—and that’s OK,” Fred tells him. Over the next few weeks, Fred’s understanding and prayers help pull Lloyd out of despair. The once-jaded journalist is now a recipient of Fred’s genuine concern for individuals. He goes on to write a tribute about a true hero— his hero.

Photos: Courtesy of Sony Pictures Releasing

Pitch Perfect “We had a lot of conversations about the character and Tom Hanks understands the essence of Mister Rogers,” says director Marielle Heller. “The response to the casting was overwhelmingly positive”

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COVER STORY

Can You Say “Friend”? Fred meets journalist Lloyd Vogel (Matthew Rhys)

Helping Out Directed by Marielle Heller (Can You Ever Forgive Me?) and written by Micah Fitzerman-Blue and Noah Harpster, the film is not a biopic of Mister Rogers: Fast Facts 1. Fred Rogers began playing piano at age five. 2. He was red/green colourblind. Ironically, his two most popular sweaters were red and green. 3. He composed most of the songs used on the TV show. 4. Rogers’ mother knitted all of the cardigans he wore on the program. A red one now hangs on display in the Smithsonian Institute. 5. He hosted 895 episodes of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood over 31 seasons, from 1968 to 2001.

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Fred Rogers. Instead, it shows how one man lived out the universal truth we all long to believe: gentleness is more powerful than hate and love can turn a life around. “It’s a story for our times, a story about kindness and family connection and trying to tap into our better self. God knows we need that right now,” Heller told Entertainment Weekly. “In the research for the movie, the writers found that more people than they could possibly count credited Mister Rogers with changing their lives. The movie is about one man who’s at a critical point in his life, and meeting Mister Rogers to write a piece about him— thinking it’s going to be a bit of a puff piece—ends up changing his entire life.” In a day when hate may seem to reign, young and old alike need helpers and heroes. Biblical characters

Fred Rogers lived out the universal truth we all long to believe: gentleness is more powerful than hate and love can turn a life around. such as Abraham, Moses and King David come to mind. More recently, Mahatma Ghandi, Martin Luther King Jr. and Mother Teresa certainly qualify. Yet God relies on ordinary people to make a positive difference in our own neighbourhoods. We can become someone’s helper or hero simply by showing the love of God in commonplace ways. A

kind word, a warm meal, even a smile can reach into a hurting heart and create a lifelong change. Giving a neighbour a ride to church, mentoring a troubled child, saying “I appreciate you” can make us heroes to those around us. “Look for the helpers” is one of Mister Rogers’ most iconic quotes. Can you be one of those helpers?

Quotable Quotes From Mister Rogers • I think the best thing we can do is to let people know that each one of them is precious.

• There are three ways to ultimate success: The first way is to be kind. The second way is to be kind. The third way is to be kind.

• If you could only sense how important you are to the lives of those you meet; how important you can be to the people you may never even dream of.

• I don’t think anyone can grow unless he’s loved exactly as he is now, appreciated for what he is rather than what he will be.

• Nobody else can live the life you live. We always have the chance to bring what’s unique about us to live in a redeeming way.

• Deep down, we know that what really matters in this life is more than winning for ourselves. It is helping others win, too.

• Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else. • People have said, “Don’t cry,” and all it has ever meant is, “I’m too uncomfortable when you show your feelings.” I’d rather have them say, “Go ahead and cry. I’m here to be with you.”

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FEATURE

Cubism at Work: Mason Day (second from left), here with his parents, Benjamin (right) and Kristin (left), and Nancy Harrison, the Army’s community relations representative at Northridge Community Church, hopes his initiative and creativity encourage others to help transform lives through The Salvation Army

Cubing for a Cause A BRADFORD, ONT., BOY HOLDS A UNIQUE EVENT TO HELP THOSE IN NEED. by Anneliesa McLean

welve-year-old Mason Day, a Bradford, Ont., resident, has an important insight for us all: we can use our passions as a way to give back to our communities. For Mason, that meant putting a new twist on a classic puzzle game. 22 • OCTOBER 2019 I faithandfriends.ca

Taking Notice Earlier this year, Mason visited The Salvation Army’s Northridge Community Church in Aurora, Ont., which provides a number of community-focused programs and services that meet the needs

Cubing for Causes was organized similar to a national cubing competition for kids, with time cards, judges, entry fees and a snack table. of those in the Ontario towns of East Gwillimbury, Bradford, King Township, Newmarket, Aurora and Stouffville. Mason independently researched and took special notice of the community services offered by the church. “I was impressed by the housing and food services they provide,” says Mason. “The thought of someone going without food is hard to imagine.” So this spring, Mason decided to use his hobby to fundraise on behalf of The Salvation Army. Mason is a passionate speed cuber and a national competitor. Speed cubing is a timed activity using the Rubik’s Cube. Speed cubers attempt to solve puzzle sizes, such as the 3×3 and 2×4. They use a series of moves to unscramble the cube into one face colour on each side of the cube. “I realized I could use my cubing

hobby as a tool for helping people,” explains Mason. Honourable Choice As a school project, Mason created and held a fundraiser called Cubing for Causes. The event was held last May at the Bradford West Gwillimbury Library. The event was organized similar to a national cubing competition for kids, with time cards, judges, entry fees and a snack table. All proceeds went to community and family services programs at Northridge Community Church. The event raised $426, which will directly support those in the community. “He is an incredible young man,” says Nancy Harrison, the Army’s community relations representative at Northridge Community Church. “For him to choose The Salvation Army as a charity is an honour.”

(left) Mason Day can be found on his Cubert Cuber YouTube channel sharing his knowledge of cubing. faithandfriends.ca I OCTOBER 2019

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LITE STUFF

Eating Healthy With Erin KALE AND POTATO SOUP TIME 20 min MAKES 2 servings SERVE WITH fresh bread

1 medium yellow potato, 1. Combine potato, carrot, garlic, peeled and chopped salt and vegetable stock in saucepan over medium-high 1 medium carrot, peeled and heat. Bring to boil and reduce chopped to simmer until potatoes can 1 clove garlic be pierced with a fork. 2 ml (½ tsp) salt 2. Chop kale and add to pot. 500 ml (2 cups) vegetable broth Continue to cook for 10 500 ml (2 cups) kale minutes . 5 ml (1 tsp) lemon juice 3. Add lemon juice and Parmesan 30 ml (2 tbsp) Parmesan cheese cheese. salt and pepper to taste

HERB ZUCCHINI FRITTERS TIME 30 min MAKES 4 servings SERVE WITH sour cream

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1. Place zucchini in small bowl. Sprinkle coarse salt to remove moisture. 2. In another bowl, mix eggs, salt, sugar, olive oil, milk, flour and parsley. 3. Drain moisture from zucchini and add carrot. 4. Add zucchini and carrot to batter mix. Add baking powder and stir well. 5. Heat skillet over medium heat with coconut oil. Reduce to medium-low and add a large spoonful of batter. When edges look like they are browning, flip to cook other side, about 3-4 minutes each side.

Recipe photos: Erin Stanley

500 ml (2 cups) zucchini, shredded 15 ml (1 tbsp) coarse salt 2 eggs 1 ml (¼ tsp) salt 10 ml (2 tsp) sugar 30 ml (2 tbsp) olive oil 500 ml (2 cups) milk 500 ml (2 cups) flour 125 ml (½ cup) fresh parsley 5 ml (1 tsp) dried dill 60 ml (¼ cup) carrots, shredded 125 ml (½ cup) breadcrumbs 2 ml (½ tsp) baking powder 30 ml (2 tbsp) coconut oil

Volunteer Gives Back

MEETING NEEDS P.8

Helping Schoolkids

FOOD FOR THOUGHT P.10

Go Ahead

SMILE! P.26

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Sudoku Puzzle

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3 × 3 box contains the digits 1 through 9.

9 2

1 5

QUICK QUIZ

8 3

3 9

6 2

7 4

6 7

6 5

OH MY WORD!

by John Sanko

Answers on next page.

9 1. What is the world’s longest river, at 6,650 kilometres? 2. What year was the CN Tower completed? 3. What cooking term is used for tying whole poultry with string?

“Time to renew your boating subscription.”

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Quick Quiz Answers: 1. the Nile; 2. 1976; 3. truss. 4

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Photos: Joel Johnson

Faith&Friends

The mops are sold to stores, hotels and cruise ships. Each worker at the factory makes above minimum wage and earns a commission for each mop sold

Beyond the Beaches The Salvation Army is making an impact in the Bahamas. by Kathy Nguyen

hen Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray, The Salvation Army’s director of world missions, asked me if I wanted to travel to Haiti to work on the next Partners in Mission resource trip, I jumped at the opportunity. I would assist the videographer and photographer, and compile stories to bring back home. As office co-ordinator, I know that the projects we do are import-

ant, worthwhile and impactful. After all, I receive the progress reports, I see the photos and I read the testimonials from the project beneficiaries. However, I also know that there is a huge difference between reading what’s on paper and seeing the work first-hand and on-site. Unfortunately, not long after, national protests began to erupt throughout Haiti—violence, riots,

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The students receive individualized teaching, ensuring that they get the attention needed to learn and grow effectively

evacuations and government travel advisories all pointed to the inevitable conclusion that the trip had to be cancelled. Making an Impact Lt-Colonel Brenda wanted the trip’s focus to remain on the Caribbean and so she decided to highlight the work of two Canadian Salvation Army pastors serving overseas— Majors Clarence and Karen Ingram, divisional leaders of The Salvation Army Bahamas/Turks and Caicos Division. I couldn’t hide my look of surprise when I was told where we would be heading. When I think of the Bahamas, my mind goes to white sand, crystal blue water and palm trees. When I think “international development,” the Bahamas certainly doesn’t come to mind. We are so used to hearing stories

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of poverty and hardship in places like Haiti—but we never give a thought to the fact that poverty and hardship can also exist in well-known vacation spots. So I was intrigued to learn more about the impact The Salvation Army is making on this island. Real Lives, Real Stories I always knew that The Salvation Army does remarkable work. But to see that with my own eyes in real-time is something I won’t soon forget. Beyond the beaches and palm trees, there are people with real lives and real stories. • I listened to a woman’s personal testimonial about how she sought refuge at the Salvation Army women and children’s emergency shelter. This facility helped her to escape an abusive relationship and regain her independence.

1. Desmond Brown, production cutter at the mop factory. He has been working at the factory since 1994. 2. Camile Mcpherson sought refuge at the Salvation Army women and children’s emergency shelter, which gave her the support needed to end an abusive relationship. She now works as a housekeeper and is able to provide for her family. 3. Students at The Salvation Army School for the Blind and Visually Impaired Children are able to learn academics as well as important life skills. 4. From left, Lt-Colonels John and Brenda Murray with Majors Karen and Clarence Ingram, Canadian pastors currently serving as divisional leaders of the Bahamas/Turks and Caicos Division.

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I always knew that The Salvation Army does remarkable work. But to see the impact with my own eyes in real-time is something I won’t soon forget. KATHY NGUYEN • I was taken on a tour of a Salvation Army mop factory, where I witnessed six visually impaired men hard at work in the production of mops. I learned that they make an astonishing 300 mops a day. Sidney Albury, the manager of the factory, told us that the factory gives the blind and visually impaired purpose and productivity. • I visited a Salvation Army School for the Blind. There, I met blind and visually impaired students who were learning math, reading, working on their computer skills, and even learning to cook and iron. This is the only school that caters to the blind and visually impaired in all of the Bahamas. Meeting Needs Although the Bahamas is seen as a vacation destination for most,

for a small population of about 400,000, the Bahamas is home. We constantly see the commercials and advertisements marketing the island’s gorgeous weather and beaches. It’s easy to forget that among all this beauty, there is also hardship. This trip was just another reminder that poverty has many faces. Whether it’s in our backyards, in Haiti or in a beautiful travel destination such as the Bahamas, there is need everywhere we go. If I’ve learned anything from this trip, it’s that The Salvation Army works hard to include people, empower them and address their needs. I am honoured and privileged to be working with an organization that seeks to enrich the lives of others, both here in Canada and around the world.

(left) “As an international development graduate and aspiring world traveller, receiving the opportunity to travel to the Bahamas and see The Salvation Army in action was nothing short of a dream come true for me,” says Kathy Nguyen.

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Faith&Friends

NIFTY THRIFTY

Marvelous Mittens Get ready for winter now. Cold weather may be coming, but you can keep your hands warm all winter by upcycling a wool sweater into a pair of mittens. Make them for yourself or give them to a friend. Supplies Needed: 100-percent wool sweater, paper and pencil, chalk, scissors, pins, needle and thread or sewing machine. Buy a wool sweater (or two) from your local Salvation Army thrift store. Wash it in hot water, then dry it on the hottest setting. Step 1 Trace your hand on a piece of paper to create a pattern for the mittens. Do not trace your hand precisely—add about 6 mm (1/4 in.) to allow for sewing. Step 2 Cut out your pattern, then use chalk to trace it four times on your wool sweater. Be sure to flip the pattern over for the front and back, then left and right. Step 3 Pin the front and back pieces of wool together with the outer sides touching. Step 4 Stitch up the sides using a sewing machine or hand-stitch them together. Trim the edges if necessary. Step 5 Turn the mittens inside out and you’re good to go! Once the mittens are done, you can jazz them up with buttons or old beads.

(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.

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