Robert Redhead’s Musical Legacy
The Way of the Cross: Holy Land Reflections
"What I Learned by Sleeping on the Streets"
THE VOICE OF THE ARMY
March 2016
Salvationist.ca
Breaking the Power of Sin
Christ frees us from the chains of death and darkness
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CONTENTS
Salvationist March 2016 • Volume 11, Number 3
10
DEPARTMENTS
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5 Frontlines
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23 Spiritual Life Our Father … by Major Rita Pittman
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25 Cross Culture 27 People & Places 30 Salvation Stories Relentless by Olivia Campbell
COLUMNS 4 Editorial Stepping Into the Past by Geoff Moulton
13 Chief Priorities On Lofty Places by Colonel Mark Tillsley
22 #Trending A Climate for Change by Captain Mark Braye
24 Ties That Bind The Long Winter by Major Kathie Chiu
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FEATURES 8 Breaking the Power of Sin Christ frees us from the chains of death and darkness by General André Cox
10 The Way of the Cross Holy Land pilgrims rejoice in Christ’s victory by Major Isobel Wagner, Major Dave Grice, Major Glenda Davis, Major Denise Walker, Major Marlene George
14 On a High Note For decades, composer Colonel Robert Redhead has given Salvationists music to encourage and inspire by Kristin Ostensen
/salvationistmagazine Like us on Facebook for photos and updates. Interact with our community of 26,000 fans @Salvationist Follow us on Twitter for the Army’s breaking news. Use hashtag #SalvationArmy for your own updates and photos Cover photo: © ginosphotos/ iStock.com
Read and share it! March 2016
17 Out in the Cold What I learned by sleeping on the streets by Lieutenant Darren Woods
FAITH &
faithandfriends.ca
frıends Inspiration for Living
18 Net Result Saving lives is simple by Joel Johnson
19 Saying Yes to God Why responding to grace is a strategic priority by Lt-Colonel Ann Braund
20 Carry Me Learning to see myself as the one in need by Dion Oxford
The Young Messiah Movie Portrays Jesus As You've Never Seen Him to Mind Your How Own Business
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An Easter Blood Transfusion Homeless No More
Salvationist March 2016 3
EDITORIAL
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Stepping Into the Past
efore I began working in the editorial department, when I was young and fancy-free, I strapped on a backpack and travelled through the “near East,” visiting Israel, Turkey, Greece, Jordan and Egypt. It was a journey of discovery as I traced the roots of my Christian faith. Anyone who has been to the Holy Land knows how transformative it can be. For me, the highlights included: • Praying at the “wailing wall” in the Old City of Jersualem, where the remains of the second Jewish temple still stand. • Walking among the ancient trees in the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus cried out to God before his Crucifixion. • Strolling the stone streets of Ephesus, where the Apostle Paul preached. • Riding a camel around the pyramids of Egypt, where the Israelites endured slavery until Moses proclaimed, “Let my people go!” One of the most unique experiences was a trip into Gaza where I visited the church of St. Porphyrius, which dates back to 425 AD. The priest allowed me to hold a 1,500-year-old Bible in my hands. It was a tangible connection to the past that made my faith come alive. In this issue of Salvationist, we feature reflections from Salvation Army Salvationist
is a monthly publication of The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory André Cox General Commissioner Susan McMillan Territorial Commander Lt-Colonel Jim Champ Secretary for Communications Geoff Moulton Editor-in-Chief Giselle Randall Features Editor (416-467-3185) Pamela Richardson News Editor, Production Co-ordinator, Copy Editor (416-422-6112) Kristin Ostensen Associate Editor and Staff Writer 4 March 2016 Salvationist
officers who recently visited the Holy past,” remember that God is not confined Land on a study trip to experience the to history. As an “Easter people,” we can world of the Bible first-hand. Journey experience the power of the Resurrection with them as they “walk where Jesus in our lives today. walked” on the Via Dolorosa—the road of sorrows that led to Calvary—and have GEOFF MOULTON your faith renewed this Easter. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Elsewhere in this issue, you’ll read about Dion Oxford’s battle with multiple sclerosis and the powerful role that community plays in healing his spirit. You’ll also gain a new appreciation for gifted musician Colonel Robert Redhead, who for decades has been writing music to inspire Salvationist audiences. The Resurrection is the cornerstone of our faith. The pages of our magazine are filled with testimonies of people who have experienced a real encounter with the living Christ. As General André Cox notes in his Easter message, “It is not about philosophy or religion; it is about a personal relationship with God, made possible through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.” Even as you read these stories and “step into the Catching a camel ride in Egypt in 1998
Timothy Cheng Senior Graphic Designer Brandon Laird Design and Media Specialist Ada Leung Circulation Co-ordinator Ken Ramstead Contributor Agreement No. 40064794, ISSN 1718-5769. Member, The Canadian Church Press. All Scripture references from the Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV) © 2011. All articles are copyright The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory and can be reprinted only with written permission.
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Mission
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FRONTLINES
Kettle Campaign Raises Over $22 Million
Photo: Sarah-Kate Photography
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he Salvation Army surpassed its $21-million goal for the 2015 Christmas kettle campaign, raising more than $22.3 million—a new record for the territory. “We are truly grateful for the continued support of our donors, volunteers and community partners, which allows us to help struggling Canadians during the Christmas season and throughout the year,” says Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander. Hosted at more than 2,000 locations across Canada, the annual Christmas kettle campaign is the Army’s largest fundraising drive of the year. The funds raised support programs in 400 communities across the country, enabling the Army to help vulnerable people with basic necessities such as food, clothing, shelter and other provisions. The Salvation A r my ’s s uc c e s s Diana Bang rings the bells at the 2015 kettle during the camcampaign kickoff in Vancouver paign also comes from the significant assistance of corporate supporters, which included WalMart, Loblaw Companies Limited, Costco, BC Liquor Stores, LCBO (in Ontario), Canadian Tire, Cadillac Fairview, Metro, Safeway, Save-on-foods, Sobeys and more. “The Christmas kettle campaign would not be effective without them,” says Commissioner McMillan.
New Name for Maple Ridge Army
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he Salvation Army in Maple Ridge, B.C., will no longer be known as The Caring Place. As of January 1, 2016, the ministry unit has changed its name to The Salvation Army Ridge Meadows Ministries. The announcement was made at the centre’s annual Dignity Breakfast in December. “We decided to change our name because we are much more than just The Caring Place facility,” explains Darrell Pilgrim, executive director, referring to the unit’s 25-bed emergency shelter. “We offer a broad range of services in both Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows.” In addition to the shelter, Ridge Meadows operates a lunch program, which serves 15 local schools, corrections ministry, street ministry, chaplaincy and more. Though the ministry is based in Maple Ridge, Pilgrim notes that about 20 percent of its clients come from nearby Pitt Meadows. The change also reflects the ministry unit’s desire to “strongly identify with the name of The Salvation Army,” adds Pilgrim. “We were being identified as The Caring Place, but we are the Army. We hope that it strengthens our name in the communities we serve.”
The ministry unit’s new name was announced at The Caring Place’s annual Dignity Breakfast, held in December and featuring BC Lions quarterback Travis Lulay (back centre)
New Year’s Dinner Draws Hundreds in Saskatoon
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he Salvation Army in Saskatoon celebrated the arrival of the new year with a special dinner, serving more than 700 people in need. This is the fourth year that the Army has put on this community dinner, which featured striploin beef, vegetables, potatoes and banana cake with caramel sauce. The Army started organizing the event because while there are a number of community dinners around Christmastime, the need is just as great in January and throughout the year. Saskatoon Mayor Don Atchison was at the meal serving guests, along with many other volunteers.
Heather Hedstrom, community and donor relations advisor, eats dinner with two guests
Salvationist March 2016 5
FRONTLINES
Red Deer Army Honoured for Food Program
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he Salvation Army’s Red Deer Church and Community and Family Services, Alta., was honoured with a Friends of Education Award this past November by the Alberta Teacher’s Association and the local school district, in recognition of its school weekend backpack feeding program. The program supplies school-age children with a backpack of food for easy-to-prepare meals for the weekend, under consultation of a nutritionist. On Fridays, the Army’s family resource team hands out the backpacks, which the students return on Monday to be filled again for the next weekend. Beginning with 21 children at one school in 2014, the program has grown to include 176 children from 15 schools with still more requests to add students to the program. The feedback from teachers, parents and students has been positive. Students are excited to receive their backpacks every Friday, teachers have seen an improvement in their students and parents are grateful for the assistance. “This program is about partnering with the schools and providing kids the opportunities to succeed,” says Deanna Scott, family services co-ordinator. “It allows children to focus on school and gives struggling families one less thing to worry about.”
Mjrs Daniel and Sarah Lim; Taylor Poor, family services worker; Mjrs Larry and Marilyn Bridger, COs; and Deanna Scott show off the contents of the backpacks
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Territory-Funded Clinic Opens in Haiti
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n the sixth anniversary of the massive earthquake that devastated the people of Haiti, The Salvation Army opened a new, expanded medical clinic in January. The Delmas 2 clinic and social services office replaces the Army’s former health facility, which was damaged beyond repair. “The new clinic has been funded by the Canada and Bermuda Territory, in partnership with The Salvation Army World Services Office in the United States,” says Manjita Biswas, program director for overseas projects. “It will serve a greater number of patients and integrate with other Salvation Army supports within the community.” The Haitian contractor committed to hiring and training unskilled workers from the community to participate in the construction of the facility. Those workers walked away with a livelihood for their families and ownership in the buildings and the community. In addition to the clinic, the territory has funded a fiveyear, US$3.6-million integrated family support program. The project provides assistance to vulnerable families and children in permanent housing and offers vocational training to help re-establish livelihoods and agriculture.
Salvation Army staff officially open the Delmas 2 medical clinic and social services office
Ottawa Army Teams Up with Senators
new partnership has been forged between The Salvation Army in Ottawa and the Ottawa Senators NHL hockey team. Under the tag line “Armies United Against Poverty,” the purpose of the partnership “is to reach new and larger audiences in order to raise awareness and funds for our programs and services that support those in need in the community,” explains Sean Maddox, 6 March 2016 Salvationist
area director for public relations and development, Ontario Central-East Division. The Salvation Army was highlighted at a Senators game in February. The Army had a booth on the concourse, where a band played music to entertain the crowd before the game. The Army’s canteen truck and victim services ambulance were also on site, offering free hot chocolate and coffee outside.
For fans buying tickets to the game, The Salvation Army was given a promo code. Proceeds from the tickets sold with that code will be directed toward the Red Shield Appeal, providing revenue to all ministry units in the city and surrounding areas. Maddox says this will become an annual event, “raising awareness of the work of The Salvation Army all year long.”
FRONTLINES
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Booth University College Announces Appointment of Next President
his is an exciting day for Booth University College,” said Colonel Glen Shepherd, chair of the Booth University College Board of Trustees, as he introduced Dr. Marjory Kerr as the fifth president of the institution. The appointment, which is effective July 1, 2016, is the result of a thorough international search. She will succeed Dr. Donald Burke who has served as president since 2006 and who has been with the institution since it opened in 1982. Kerr holds a Ph.D. in industrial/ organizational psychology from the University of Waterloo and is a registered psychologist in Ontario. Since August 2013, she has served as vice-president academic and dean at Booth University College. During this time, Kerr has provided leadership for the academic programs of the institution. She facilitated
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the development of the current strategic plan, “Vision 2020: The Road to Booth University,” and is leading the development and implementation of the strategic enrolment plan. Kerr’s prior experience as a consulting psychologist focused on the identification and development of organizational talent in public, private and not-for-profit/NGO settings. She has led numerous global projects and is an experienced facilitator and speaker at workshops and conferences. A lifelong member of The Salvation Army, Kerr has been involved in leadership in congregational and organizational contexts for many years. From 2001-2007, she was a member of the Board of Trustees of Booth University College, serving as chair of the board from 2004 to 2007. She continues to
serve on territorial committees and task forces and is a member of The Salvation Army Ethics Centre Board.
Dr. Marjory Kerr will be the first woman president of Booth University College
Calgary Corps Produces Original Play
he story of Christ’s birth, with its shepherds, Wise Men and angels, is a familiar tale, well known to Christians everywhere. But what happened in the little town of Bethlehem after that grand event? That’s the question behind Bethlehem, Ten Years Later, a new play written by Kevin and Darleen Holroyd, Salvationists from Calgary’s Glenmore Temple. “It’s been 10 years since Jesus was born and the shepherds have been reminiscing about that night,” explains Kevin Holroyd, who also co-directed the play.
“They decide to go back to Bethlehem to see how everyone else is celebrating the anniversary.” The play, which was performed at the corps in December, had a cast of more than 20, most of whom were children and teens, plus stage managers, set and prop designers, costume makers and many other supporters throughout the rehearsals and the run of the play. “Many hands and many volunteer hours went into making this a success,” says Alicia McLeod, director of children’s and youth ministries at the corps.
The stable: Birthplace of Christ or tourist attraction?
The three shepherds reminisce about the birth of Jesus
Photos: Darleen Holroyd
Allydia Blackburn, Garett Blackburn and Theo Wells play the Three Wise Men
Salvationist March 2016 7
Breaking the Power of Sin
Christ frees us from the chains of death and darkness BY GENERAL ANDRÉ COX
8 March 2016 Salvationist
God’s Redemptive Plan For many people, religion is nothing more than an intellectual philosophy—something that we do only on special occasions or in a specific context which, sadly, has no bearing on the way that we live and act in our lives. Sadly, too easily we can miss the point, for the whole message of Easter tells about lifechanging power. It is not about philosophy or religion; it is about a personal relationship with God, made possible through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross! Paul, in writing to the Colossians, says: “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory” (3:1-3). Our relationship with Christ, and his life within us, enables us to look at things from a different perspective. Christ has become the centre of focus for our lives. It is far more than going through the motions, observing rituals and spiritual disciplines. Things of this world are viewed with a different perspective, and this profoundly changes the way that we think and act. Here, Paul deals with the very practical matter of how men and women who have been reconciled with God should live. It is as our spiritual eyes are opened that
we gain ever more understanding of God’s eternal purposes and through faith we truly begin to experience triumph over darkness and despair. Through the eyes of faith we have a greater understanding of God’s redemptive plan for the world as we find it in the gospel message: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son” (John 3:16-18). Encounter the Risen Christ Sadly, in this world we do experience times of sorrow, loss of faith and despair. That, however, should not be the Christian norm! Sometimes we, like Mary, can look in the wrong place: “Why do you look for the living among the dead?” (Luke 24:5). Do we, at times, seek the Lord in places where he is not? We have all known what it is like to be burdened, weighed down with worry and care, not always realizing that Jesus is actually with us! We are, or should be, people with a resurrection gospel to proclaim. We are, ourselves, resurrection people; people who have experienced life-giving transformation in a personal encounter with the risen Christ. People experiencing the power and presence of the risen Christ in our lives! We are on the winning team. Do you believe it? We are destined to be people of victory, not despair. Christ’s death on the cross and his Resurrection on that first Easter morning broke, once and for all, the power and domination of sin. Christ’s Resurrection broke the chains of death and darkness. That remains true today, no matter what we may see and experience in this world. We are called to experience for ourselves the power and victory of the Resurrection in our everyday lives. Let us lift up our heads and live as people who daily experience the victory that was won for us at Calvary! General André Cox is the international leader of The Salvation Army.
Photo: © ginosphotos/iStock.com
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round the world on Easter morning, many Christians will gather for a sunrise service in which the proclamation will be made: “He is risen!” What a glorious celebration Easter Sunday represents for each one of us! God, in raising Christ, has broken the power of sin and set us free. God, in raising Christ, has established a sure eternal future for each one of us. The chorus to Robin and Bill Wolaver’s song Make His Praise Glorious says: “Shout with joy to God all the earth, sing glory to his name. Tell aloud his marvellous worth, his righteousness proclaim. Glory and honour and blessing and power be unto the Lord! Come and let us make his praise glorious.” As we celebrate the reality and the glory of the risen Christ, our hearts are filled with praise and worship as we gain new insight and understanding of God’s eternal purposes and his plan of salvation for the world.
Salvationist March 2016 9
The Way of the Cross Holy Land pilgrims rejoice in Christ’s victory
Last fall, a group of Salvation Army officers from the Canada and Bermuda Territory travelled to the Holy Land, becoming pilgrims as they entered the story of Jesus’ life, death and Resurrection. Here are their reflections on his journey to the cross.
Betrayed: The Garden of Gethsemane BY MAJOR ISOBEL WAGNER
Condemned: The Prison of Christ BY MAJOR DAVE GRICE
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n the day we walked the Via Dolorosa, we stopped at a location believed to be where Jesus was held prisoner before Pilate sentenced him to crucifixion. As a young Christian, I struggled with the injustice of the story. Jesus had not done anything wrong, yet was accused. Pilate had an opportunity to stand up for Jesus, but chose instead to absolve himself of any responsibility, saying, “I am innocent of this man’s blood” (Matthew 27:24). Jesus could have challenged the charges he faced, yet remained silent. “He was oppressed and afflicted … he was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so he did not open his mouth” (Isaiah 53:7). Only later in life did I come to understand why Jesus 10 March 2016 Salvationist
Mjrs Lynn and Brian Armstrong share a moment of prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane
be cut off from God’s presence and to bear the full force of his anger. This was a horrendous prospect. Jesus knew he needed divine strength to sustain him in all that lay ahead. The pressure exerted on Jesus culminated in his blood being poured out for us on the cross. Like olives pressed for oil, his blood brings light to all who place their faith in him. Paul writes, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins” (Ephesians 1:7). And so, “God … made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6). When we feel the pressure of life weighing heavily upon us, and we are tempted to give up, we can look to Jesus’ example of prayer and know with certainty that “our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:17).
relinquished his power and authority: “Though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant … he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:6-8 ESV). Jesus faced his accusers with humility so that I could receive forgiveness for my sins. In the darkness of that prison, where grooves in the rock held the chains that bound his hands and feet, my frustration and anger at injustice was replaced by thankfulness for what Jesus did for me.
Photo: Mjr Marlene George
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grove of olive trees greeted us as we entered a private garden near the traditional site of Gethsemane. Our guide told us that Gethsemane means oil press. She explained that when pressure is applied to olives, they release their oil, which, in turn, produces light. I found this simple explanation profoundly moving as I reflected on Jesus’ last visit to the garden where he often prayed with his disciples (see Luke 22:39-40). Jesus was under immense pressure on the night of his betrayal. He knew his hour of suffering had come (see Mark 14:41). He spent his last moments of freedom in fervent prayer: “Being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground” (Luke 22:44). Three times he prayed that, if it were possible, God would remove “this cup” from him. However, above all, he prayed that God’s will would be accomplished (see Matthew 26:39, 42, 44). Jesus knew that he had to drink from the cup of God’s wrath to pay the penalty for our sin. Jesus, who had lived his life in unbroken, intimate fellowship with his Father, was to
Mjr Mark Wagner demonstrates where the chains were affixed to the wall
Salvation Army officers from the Canada and Bermuda Territory in Jerusalem. Back, from left, Mjr Brian Armstrong, Mjr Lynn Armstrong, Mjr Carolyn Doonan, Mjr Martin Ketteringham, Mjr David McNeilly, Mjr John Kirschman, Mjr Craig Rowe, Mjr Lloyd George, Mjr Roxzena Hayden, Mjr Dave Grice, Mjr Mark Wagner, Colonel Mark Tillsley, Mjr Neil Evenden and Mjr Lorne Jewer. Front, from left, Mjr Mona Moore, Mjr Pauline Gruer-Caulfield, Mjr April McNeilly, Mjr Patsy Rowe, Mjr Glenda Davis, Mjr Marlene George, Mjr Denise Walker, Mjr Lynn Grice, Mjr Isobel Wagner, Colonel Sharon Tillsley, Mjr Merrilee Evenden, Mjr Gail Winsor and Mjr Edith Jewer. Kneeling: Hana Kessler (tour guide) and Hader (bus driver)
BY MAJOR GLENDA DAVIS
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t was an unforgettable experience to be where Jesus ministered on earth, to walk where he walked. For me, the most sacred and solemn of all the sites we visited was the Via Dolorosa, which means the way of suffering. Everything else pointed to this moment. Whether or not it was the actual road that Jesus took from Pilate’s judgment hall through Jerusalem to Calvary, it became a spiritual journey that led me to the cross. At the beginning of our pilgrimage, our tour guide urged us to use all of our senses to make the most of our experience in the Holy Land. I found myself doing exactly that as we walked along the Via Dolorosa. I felt the heat of the day and the deepening of my breath as we ascended the narrow, winding road in Old Jerusalem. I carried a knapsack and had to tread carefully on the uneven paved stones. I thought about Jesus, walking uphill, carrying the agonizing load of a heavy wooden cross on his wounded body, and wondered what it was like for him. We shared the crowded street with vendors and other pilgrims. The people we encountered were pleasant, other than an occasional aggressive shopkeeper trying to earn a living. Soldiers with machine guns patrolled the route. By this time, we were used to their presence and they posed no threat to us. In contrast, I thought of the hostile crowd that Jesus would have faced and the oppressive Roman soldiers who led him to his death.
Along the way, we stopped in churches and other locations that marked significant moments in Jesus’ final hours: his condemnation, the crown of thorns, Simon of Cyrene taking the cross. Each place was a reminder of his great sacrifice. In a dark dungeon, a place representing his imprisonment, we sang, “Were you there when they crucified my Lord?” Afterward, there were tears and silence. I found myself taking ownership for his Crucifixion and the part my sin played in all of it. A deep sadness came over me; my heart was grieved. At the same time, I experienced his love in a new and powerful way as I reflected on the words of a song by Sandi Patty: “He chose to walk that road out of his love for you and me; down the Via Dolorosa, all the way to Calvary.”
Photo: Mjr Marlene George
Scourged: Via Dolorosa
Walking in the footsteps of Christ on the Via Dolorosa
Salvationist March 2016 11
journey had been an emotional one for me; I was overwhelmed by the presence of God at several stations. This station was different. There is a feeling that can’t be BY MAJOR DENISE WALKER explained when you suddenly find yourself in the valley of the shadow of death. As we climbed the stairs to the place n Jerusalem, two places are considered possible locations where the cross was erected and where Jesus died—it hit me. of Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified. My experience at The room was hot, dark and crowded; the air was thick with each was like night and day. smoky incense. It was disorienting and unsettling. This was The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, built on the rock of indeed a place of death. Golgotha, was our last stop as we walked the Via Dolorosa. The It was easy to hear the words of Jesus: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” I felt like one of the women watching helplessly from the sidelines, in anguish but, at the same time, numb. It was difficult to be there, to patiently make my way through the final stations, but it was an important part of the journey. The other location was part of the Garden Tomb, just past the Damascus Gate. We visited late in the day and the garden was beautiful and peaceful, a quiet sanctuary nestled in the midst of a bustling city. We were taken to the edge of the garden and from there we could see a rocky cliff, that, when viewed from just the right angle, and with just the right amount of imagination, looked like a skull. Maybe it was the wire fence, or the stone wall at the top of the hill, or the row of minibuses in the parking lot below, but I couldn’t see it. I couldn’t place the horrific events of Jesus’ death there. But it was still a special stop, a place of quiet reflection as I remembered the sacrifice Jesus made to give me The location of Golgotha is debated, but this skull-like rock face is one possible location new life and new hope.
Crucified: Golgotha
Risen: The Garden Tomb BY MAJOR MARLENE GEORGE
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n most cases, you wouldn’t be excited to enter a special place or open a special gift and discover it empty. But at the Garden Tomb, although the garden itself was beautiful and full of life, the real gift was to enter the tomb and rejoice in its emptiness—a vivid reminder of Jesus’ victory over death and our redemption through his atoning work. When I entered the tomb, designed to replicate the borrowed tomb of Joseph of Arimathea, I was thankful it wasn’t dark and dismal. Instead, there was natural light shining through an opening. To me, this represented something of the brightness the women saw when the angel greeted them on that first Easter morning, so many centuries before. It was easy to imagine the angel declaring, “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said” (Matthew 28:6). The tomb was no longer a dark and dismal place of death; it had been transformed into a place of life by the resurrected body of Christ. As I stood there, I gave thanks to God for this gift of life and the power of the Resurrection. Leaving the empty tomb, I could not help but rejoice, raising my voice and pointing heavenward to victoriously declare, “He is risen indeed!” 12 March 2016 Salvationist
Photo: Mjr Lloyd George
Photo: Mjr Denise Walker
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Mjr Marlene George rejoices at the empty tomb
CHIEF PRIORITIES
On Lofty Places Walking in the footsteps of Jesus in the Holy Land BY COLONEL MARK TILLSLEY
Photo: © rrodrickbeiler/stock.Adobe.com
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he opportunity to visit the Holy Land with fellow Salvation Army officers last fall was a highlight of my officership. In the past, I had been skeptical when people spoke of the significant spiritual reawakening they experienced on this pilgrimage. Now, I am one of those enthusiasts, with much to share—but I won’t try to share it all here. I’m not sure what I was expecting to happen during this trip, but I do know that the Lord drew close on many occasions and faithfully ministered to me through the Holy Spirit. It will take time to process all we saw, heard, smelled and tasted. Unlike a typical vacation, where the idea is to escape, our tour of the Holy Land called us to enter the biblical narrative. There were moments of exultation, such as when we rejoiced over Christ’s Resurrection at the empty tomb. There were also moments of profound sorrow, even shame, as we entered the prison where the Lord was held prior to his execution on the cross of Calvary. In that dark dungeon, we sang, “Were you there when they crucified my Lord?” and contemplated the paradox contained in the song. On the one hand, none of us were physically there two thousand years ago. On the other hand, we must acknowledge that our sinful nature would have led to exactly the same rejection of the Lord in his time of greatest need. As we sang together, our hearts broke for Jesus, but we also wept for our lost condition, before Christ, in his mercy, forgave us and reconciled us to God. There were moments when the present realities of our hurting world came into sharp focus. As we stood in the Golan Heights, we could see Syria on one side and Jordan on the other. It was a beautiful, quiet day, and yet our guide told us that Russian bombers were deploying a mission in Syria only 20 kilometres away. We were also aware of the misery and mass exodus of refugees taking place so close to where we stood.
In Israel, one is conscious of the real and present danger when people and nations live in a state of animosity and fear toward one another. In Jerusalem, the heavily armed police and military presence provides a sense of safety, but also a sense of profound sadness, as people are screened, checked and, at times, turned away from entering parts of the city because of their ethnic, religious and political identity. Even in the body of Christ, we find ourselves conflicted about how peace can be achieved. All of the pat, easy answers are challenged when you are in the Holy Land. How we will achieve peace remains elusive, but we cry out to God the words from Harry Emerson Fosdick’s song, God of Grace and God of Glory: “Cure thy children’s warring madness, bend our pride to thy control.” As a Christian and a Salvationist, a follower of Jesus, I
am called not only to desire peace, but to be a peacemaker through the infilling presence of Christ. Fosdick’s song goes on to say that we are to “Set our feet on lofty places, gird our lives that they may be armoured with all Christlike graces in the fight to set men free.” Many times during this trip, I had the sense that my feet were on lofty places, because I was walking where Jesus walked. In coming home to Canada, my resolve has been strengthened to walk like Jesus walked. In the words of the prophet Isaiah, “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns!” (Isaiah 52:7 NLT). Colonel Mark Tillsley is the chief secretary for the Canada and Bermuda Territory. Salvationist March 2016 13
On a High Note For decades, composer Colonel Robert Redhead has given Salvationists music to encourage and inspire
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BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN
t was 1952. A 12-year-old Salvationist named Robert Redhead had become very ill, and was confined to his home in Manchester, England, for a month while he recovered. Without school or corps life to keep him occupied, he turned to music to fill his days. A member of the young people’s band, Robert asked his father to bring home some of the band scores from the church.
Robert Redhead composes music at the international music editorial department in 1975
“I’d try to transpose them to the piano because I had time on my hands,” he remembers. “I didn’t know it at the time, but in taking a whole band score, which has 17 parts to it, and putting it into two hands on a piano, I was learning how to write band music.” Learning by Doing With more than 200 compositions to his name, Colonel Robert Redhead is one of The Salvation Army’s most prolific and influential composers. Known for works such as Corpus Christi and Isaiah 40, Robert has served as bandmaster of both the Canadian Staff Band and International Staff Band, leading Salvationists around the world in worship. Born into a Salvation Army family, Robert joined the young people’s band at seven, learning the flugelhorn. Seeing he had an aptitude for music, the band’s leader, Derek Salt, began mentoring him and teaching him to play piano. It was Salt who suggested that Robert try 14 March 2016 Salvationist
Robert (right) with the band led by Deryck Diffey at National Music Camp in 1976
transposing band music for the piano. “I don’t know how I did it—I just did it,” Robert admits, laughing. “I was never really taught. That was how I learned.” Robert transposed many popular Salvation Army band tunes for two pianists, and began playing duets with Salt at corps throughout the Manchester area. As he grew up, he began composing his own brass music and transcribing scores by listening to popular records, such as the New York Staff Band’s Banners and Bonnets. Whatever he lacked in formal training, Robert made up for in passion and dedication. “Because I was studying music on my own, I learned a lot of things the wrong way around,” he says, “but in doing that I created my own composition style.” Choices In his late teens, Robert moved to Southport, England, where he would make two decisions that would shape the rest of his life. Robert first felt a call to officership when he was 14, but after finishing school, he went into banking. “I was doing very well and the bank was pushing me to do further studies, so I could become a bank manager,” he says. “I had to make a choice.” Knowing officership was the right one, he quit his job and went to work at an office before going to training college. Soon after making that decision, 19-year-old Robert made another, meeting his future wife, Gwenyth, at his corps. “In those days in The Salvation Army, everybody wore a uniform, and she came to the Sunday afternoon meeting in a bright red coat,” he smiles. “I thought, Oh, she’s different!” “That was my little bit of rebellion,” says Colonel Gwenyth Redhead, who admits she was also wearing lipstick that day. “I remember one afternoon, this tall, gangly teenage lad stood up and gave his testimony, and I thought to myself, He’s for real. Robert stood out as an authentic Christian among many who, in that day and age, were not.” Though Robert’s parents were initially skeptical of the non-uniformwearing Gwenyth, the two fell in love and were married in 1965, after they’d both finished training college. A Renewed Calling The Redheads’ first appointments took them into corps ministry, before Robert
Marching with the Canadian Staff Band in the Rockies in 1978
was appointed back to the training college, where he directed the music program and wrote music for the Army’s centenary and the yearly commissioning weekends. But his time at the college came to a tragic close when his mother died and his father became gravely ill with cancer soon after. “We went to visit him at the hospital, and I felt the Holy Spirit tell me that his dad should come and live with us,” shares Gwenyth. “When I told Robert, he was relieved, but when we got back to the training college where we were living, we realized, how could we bring a sick man here? And so with great reluctance, Robert went to the training principal and requested a change of appointment.” Coming to the music department at International Headquarters (IHQ) in 1971 should have been a dream appointment for Robert, but when his father died early that year, he almost left officership entirely. “I was ill for about three months, and nobody put together why—not even the doctor,” shares Robert. “Basically, it was this enormous grief.” Though he emerged from his depression, Robert’s sense of calling was shaken. “When I began to get better, I felt I should try something else, so I told the Army that we would pull out of being officers,” he says. The Army asked Robert and Gwenyth to reconsider, and offered them as much time as they needed to think it through. Meanwhile, Robert had applied for a position at an Anglican cathedral and was one of the final three candidates.
“I could tell from the way they were talking that I was going to get it,” he recalls, “and it suddenly dawned on me: I was going to be an Anglican; The Salvation Army would be right off the book. At that moment, I realized that I should be an officer. So I went back to IHQ and said, ‘If you’ll have me back, I’m ready to go to work.’ And that was it.” Robert returned to IHQ with a new sense of purpose. “Before, I’d always wanted to be a preacher. And there I was, stuck in an office, writing music, which is very nice, but what did it have to do with God?” he says. “I came back with a focus, knowing what I should be doing in that department: not just writing music, but making it meaningful.” Coming to Canada After five profitable years at IHQ, the Redheads’ next appointment was a pleasant surprise. “When the Chief of the Staff said we were going west, I thought west of London—not Canada!” Robert laughs. From 1976 to 1985, Robert served as director of the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s music department and bandmaster of the Canadian Staff Band (CSB). During that time, he and Gwenyth wrote two full-length musicals together— Chains of Gold and Ruth—as well as several shorter pieces. But one of the most meaningful aspects of their ministry was the territory’s National Music Camp. “I met Robert Redhead for the first time at National in 1976,” shares Steve Brown, a Salvationist at Toronto’s Salvationist March 2016 15
Scarborough Citadel and member of the CSB. “As a young bandsman I had played his music before and was excited that he was coming to Canada. I remember him taking the time to talk to me on a personal level and how special that made me feel.” “It was the Redheads who gave me my first opportunity to write the Bible study material for National,” says Major Kevin Metcalf, corps officer, London Citadel, Ont., and former director of National Music Camp. “Looking back at this, it is a wonder to me that these very gifted people were willing to take such a risk. But that was their gift—to see the potential in the young people and to encourage us to make strides toward reaching our potential in Christ.” The Redheads continued their pastoral ministry in their next appointment at Southmount Citadel in Vancouver. “We loved being pastors of a congregation,” says Robert. “That’s why we originally became officers.” That appointment became the inspiration behind Corpus Christi (“the body of Christ”), a major work composed soon after Robert was sent back to England to be bandmaster of the International Staff Band (ISB) in 1990. Breaking Barriers The Redheads were sad to leave their corps, but saw that their new appointment was the right one. “The ISB needed a change,” says Robert. “When we came back, the big thing in the Army, in banding, was the question of women in bands. It wasn’t a problem in Canada, but in Britain, a good band wouldn’t have a woman.” It was important to Robert that the person he chose to join the band would be an excellent musician, so that no one could claim she was a “token woman.” The first woman in the ISB was Vanda Spence. “She was a very good trombonist,” says Robert, noting that she was also a featured soloist. Robert also broke down barriers between Salvation Army music and secular music, writing a test piece for a brass band competition in the United Kingdom. When Robert wrote Isaiah 40 in 1995, officers were not allowed to compose for non-Salvation Army groups. “I wanted to write something that was religious, so that if people did read about it, it would say something to them,” he says. “The Scripture, Isaiah 40, is very powerful and understandable.” 16 March 2016 Salvationist
Robert is a guest conductor at the first combined black and white school of music in South Africa in 1991
“It was a marvellous outreach opportunity to the secular brass band world, with a very fine piece of Scripture, as well as a half-decent piece of music,” adds Gwenyth with a smile. When the piece premiered at Royal Albert Hall in London in 1996, both Robert and Gwenyth were in attendance. “When I walked on stage at the end, in my uniform, that made a point,” Robert recalls with emotion. “It was a very moving experience. And it brought the Army band world and the non-Army band world much closer together. Before, if a Salvationist joined a brass band outside the Army, they were immediately condemned. Now, hopefully, when a Salvationist plays in a non-Army band, they play as a Salvationist—salt and light.”
Faithful Composer Robert and Gwenyth wrapped up their time as active officers with appointments in Canada, New Zealand and at IHQ, but decided to settle in Orillia, Ont., after they retired in 2005. Along with leading the Orillia Corps band and various specialling engagements, Robert continues to compose and has recently completed a piece called God is There, which will be played by the five North American staff bands at a mass gathering in May. “When people hear or play my music, I hope they feel that God is greater for them than he was before, that the music helps them see deeper, feel deeper,” he says, “that at the end, they would feel, ‘Yes, that was worthy.’ ”
Robert and Gwenyth in India in 2003, as the General’s representatives for the development of worship and evangelism through music and other creative arts, their final appointment
Out in the Cold What I learned by sleeping on the streets BY LIEUTENANT DARREN WOODS
Lt Darren Woods dressed in street clothing to spend a night homeless in Fredericton
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n the winter of 1888, General William Booth was disturbed when he saw homeless people sleeping rough under a bridge in London, England. He demanded to know if his son, Bramwell, the Army’s Chief of the Staff, was aware of the situation. When Bramwell admitted that he was, General Booth barked, “Do something, Bramwell! Do something!” My wife and I were appointed to Fredericton Community Church last summer. We operate a busy community and family services office and partner with a number of other agencies, particularly those focused on homelessness. Reports estimate that there are 50 to 60 “street” homeless persons in Fredericton—37 have shelter beds, while the rest sleep rough. Seeing the homeless on the streets, and engaging in conversation with our community partners, I heard within my own soul the call of the founder to “do something.” I decided that I needed to experience first-hand what it is like to be homeless on the streets of Fredericton.
So, one Friday last fall, I left the warmth and comfort of my home and wandered the city streets for the night. I realize that my experience was somewhat inauthentic—I knew that I could return to my “real life” at any time. But this exercise gave me the opportunity to talk to and learn from people who live that experience every day. Out on the street with nowhere to go, I couldn’t escape the thought that I was crazy to be doing this, but I was not afraid in the slightest. I believed God had sent me out on a mission and that he would protect me. I headed for the tent city along the riverbank, only to find it gone—the authorities had dismantled it and dispersed the residents. Then I went to the men’s shelter but found the door locked (a normal security practice for them). I knew that they were struggling with over-occupancy, so I didn’t bother to ring the doorbell. I met a 37-year-old man, who became my friend, near the men’s shelter. He was sitting on the curb, strumming a broken
guitar. We talked about various issues that affect the homeless, including eating food from garbage cans—a conversation I revisited as I sat down to my own elaborate Thanksgiving dinner a few weeks later. He gave me tips on where to find warm places to sleep. Eventually, he invited me to his “home”—a covered concrete stairwell. This was where he stored all of his earthly belongings (a sleeping bag and pillow), and where he took shelter when it was cold or wet. I appreciated his hospitality; he had nothing, but he shared his nothing with me. As we talked, I learned that he expected to spend the rest of his life living on those stairs. He had no expectation of change, knowing that it was his own unbreakable drug addiction that kept him there. My heart went out to him. This was a smart, funny young person, simply enduring life, living without hope. No human being should have to live that way. I will always be grateful to have met this man, from whom I learned so much—not only about homelessness, but also about myself and my faith. I learned how demeaning it is to be homeless, how invisible the homeless feel. Most of the people who saw me refused to make eye contact, pretending that I was not there. Others screwed up their faces in disgust while crossing the street to avoid me. A few others gave sympathetic smiles as they cautiously passed by. The experience was humiliating and degrading. I also learned that I have been guilty of apathy when it comes to homelessness. It’s not enough to pray for the homeless and hope that they’ll be OK out in the cold—that’s not loving my neighbour. Christ calls us to be his ambassadors, offering real, practical help that will change people’s lives. That’s what holiness is all about: bringing health and wholeness to a broken world. God’s salvation is not just a spiritual experience; it’s also physical, emotional and social. As Christians, we can be agents of salvation for the people around us. In the parable of the sheep and the goats, Jesus tells us, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (see Matthew 25:31-46). We have an obligation to help the poor and marginalized in our society. No one should be left to hopelessly live out their days on the street. How can we do something to change that? Salvationist March 2016 17
Net Result Saving lives is simple BY JOEL JOHNSON
Kenneth Pinifolo is a farmer in Funwe, Malawi. Without access to health care, his son died from malaria
Mosquito nets are one of the first lines of defence in preventing malaria
Third in a four-part series in support of the Partners in Mission campaign.
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unwe is a group of villages at the end of a long, dusty road in the Upper Shire river district of southern Malawi. It’s a region that struggles to make ends meet, with no electricity, a dwindling water supply and inadequate access to health care. I visited Funwe as part of a team from The Salvation Army’s world missions department. I grew up in the Army and have long known about its international work. As a photographer, I have spent the last 15 years travelling the world and documenting life from behind the lens. While in Malawi, I met Kenneth Pinifolo and learned a little about his life. We chatted under the shade of a tree to escape the hot midday sun. Like many in the area, Kenneth is a subsistence 18 March 2016 Salvationist
farmer. As he told me about his wife and eight children—all sets of twins— his eyes lit up and he smiled with pride. But as the conversation shifted to his youngest son, Bonifis, his voice changed. Last March, Bonifis became ill with malaria. For two weeks, Kenneth and his wife, Victoria, struggled to keep his fever down, but the weakness and lethargy grew worse. Kenneth borrowed a friend’s bicycle to take Bonifis to the nearest clinic, an hour away. When they arrived, he was told there was no medicine available. The next clinic was another 10 kilometres away. With Bonifis in his arms, he peddled as fast as he could—but he couldn’t peddle fast enough. Bonifis died along the way. He was 10 months old. Malaria is an infectious disease caused by a parasite transmitted by mosquitoes. Those infected suffer from fever, fatigue, headaches, nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, it can cause death. Malaria is widespread throughout the
world’s equatorial regions. When properly treated, people with malaria usually recover completely. But lack of access to blood tests and antimalarial medication is a factor in mortality rates, especially in children. In 2013, the World Health Organization estimated there were 198 million cases of malaria worldwide, resulting in more than 500,000 deaths. Prevention, education and awareness are critical in the fight against not only malaria, but many other mosquito-borne diseases. One way to prevent infection is by sleeping under a mosquito net. Kenneth has only one mosquito net for his family. Although it isn’t large enough for all of them, he can’t afford another one. He’s afraid of becoming ill and being unable to provide for his children. His story is one example of the many challenges people face in Malawi. The Salvation Army works to help children, families and villages like Funwe address their basic needs, through the assistance of donors and partners. Mosquito nets are one of the first lines of defence in preventing serious illness that has such a detrimental effect. Research suggests that malaria contributes to poverty and hinders economic development. Please consider purchasing a mosquito net through the Gifts of Hope program (visit salvationarmy.ca/gifts ofhope). It’s a simple, effective way to prevent the spread of malaria and give hope today, and for the future. Joel Johnson is a Toronto-based photographer who grew up in The Salvation Army.
Saying Yes to God Why responding to grace is a strategic priority
Photo: © ipopba/iStock.com
BY LT-COLONEL ANN BRAUND
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n the January issue of Salvationist, Commissioner Susan McMillan introduced our new territorial strategic priorities under the slogan mobilize: upward, outward, onward, and highlighted the champions of each priority. I have been appointed to lead the way for spiritual health. I hope you are encouraged to hear that your spiritual well-being is a territorial priority. Spiritual health is captured in the upward movement of mobilize. We are spiritual beings, living in a spiritual realm and daily influenced by spiritual forces (see Ephesians 1:3, 20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12). We can look up and choose to welcome the transforming power of God’s grace, freely available to everyone (see Ephesians 2:8; Titus 2:11), or we can choose to look away from this gift. The direction of our gaze has an impact on our spiritual well-being. Spiritual health is a measure of our response to God’s grace, a measure of wholeness. We are spiritually healthy when God is at work in every area of our lives—relationships, families, hobbies, work, finances. When we respond to grace, a movement toward God’s will and purposes is launched. Saying yes to God moves people toward the experience of salvation, holiness and intimacy with God. Intimacy with God is not only a
corporate core value; it is a target for our lives and the heart’s desire of those who call themselves Salvationists. As the champion of spiritual health, I will use my influence to promote responsiveness to God’s ever-present grace. There are many doors into fellowship with The Salvation Army, but we believe that there is only one door into fellowship and intimacy with God, and that door is Jesus. Spiritual health is a responsive yes to Jesus. John Newton, a former slave trader, pondered the depth of God’s grace in his life when he wrote the song Amazing Grace: “ ’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, and grace my fears relieved, how precious did that grace appear the hour I first believed!” I first became aware of the grace of God, his goodness and love for me, at the age of 16, when I was invited to The Salvation Army. I remember awakening to God’s presence and movement in my life. I sensed God drawing me to himself through the love and welcome of God’s people, through their testimonies, songs and messages. I remember the hour I first believed—the morning of May 7, 1977, at youth councils held in Peterborough, Ont. My officer knelt with me and prayed the words of John 3:16, “For God so loved Ann that he gave his one and only Son
that Ann can believe and have everlasting life.” I remember life, vitality, coming to me. Many times since then, I have knelt to receive the gracious work and activity of God. In a conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus, the Spirit of God is compared to the wind (see John 3:8). The movement of God is noticeable. I see evidence of the grace of God in Olivia Campbell’s life. You can read about her spiritual journey on page 30. And I see God at work in Major Ray Braddock’s life. You can read his story on salvationist.ca. Strategies to promote spiritual health and well-being must acknowledge movement—God’s continuous movement toward humanity and our responsive movement. The measurable outcomes for the territorial spiritual health priority include: • c ontinued development of the spiritual life website • the formation of a territorial spiritual life development network, made up of people from territorial and divisional headquarters, corps and social services • appointing or hiring a spiritual leader for every ministry unit—officers and chaplains to help facilitate the meeting of God’s grace and human decision • the appointment of a divisional secretary for spiritual life development in every division • gathering, creating and distributing resources to support spiritual health. A healthy spiritual life not only moves people onward in their experience of God, it moves people outward in ministry to others. Author Frederick Buechner wrote, “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” The heart lifted upward toward God results in an outward calling toward people and an onward calling to a lifelong journey of transformation, being formed in the image of Christ. Lt-Colonel Ann Braund is the territorial secretary for spiritual life development.
You can read more about the seven strategic priorities at salvationist.ca/ strategic-priorities. Salvationist March 2016 19
Carry Me
Learning to see myself as the one in need BY DION OXFORD
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n Mark 2, there’s a story of a disabled man whose friends carry him to the house where Jesus is staying, believing Jesus can heal him. But when they get there, the house is so crowded they can’t even get in the door. Determined to reach Jesus, they cut a hole in the roof and lower the man into Jesus’ presence. It’s a common devotional practice to read stories like this and imagine your20 March 2016 Salvationist
self as one of the characters. I’ve always pictured myself as one of the friends, as someone who carries others. For most of my life, I have worked at Salvation Army drop-ins and shelters. I feel called by God to work alongside people who live on or close to the street, and have become well acquainted with the need to carry people. I haven’t done everything right, but I hope I have guided people toward Jesus’ healing power.
Dion Oxford has had multiple sclerosis for 18 years. He relies on mobility devices, such as this arm-propelled bicycle, to get around. Here, his daughter, Cate, catches a ride at Camp Koinonia
But these days, when I read this story, something is different. I don’t picture myself as one of the friends. I’m the one being carried. Learning to Receive I’ve had multiple sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune disease that attacks the central nervous system, for 18 years. About 10
years ago, we started going to a camp as a family in the summer. We fell in love with Camp Koinonia, built on a hill overlooking a lake. At first, I could easily navigate the camp, because MS wasn’t front and centre for me. But over the past five years, it has become more and more difficult to walk. I depend on a walker or mobility scooter to get around. Spending time at the camp has become my yardstick for how much sicker I’ve become. For weeks before our visit last summer, I worried that the hill to the lake, my favourite spot at the camp, would finally be too much for me. As soon as we got there, I tried walking down the stairs to the lake. Halfway down, I realized it was a mistake. I wasn’t sure how I’d get the rest of the way down, or back up to my cabin. I was stuck. Thankfully, I was with a good friend. He took me on his back down the hill and to the end of the dock, where I splashed into the water. I love being in water. Swimming is one of the only forms of cardio remaining to me—I can wiggle my legs, even walk if the water is past my waist. I can float, and, for a short time, forget my physical limitations. Once in the water, I started wondering how I’d get back up the hill. After an hour of swimming, it was time to figure it out. The young guys who work at the camp came to help, prepared to carry me—but how? Then someone noticed the lifeguard’s spinal board. They strapped me on and carried me up the hill. And that’s how I got down to the water and back every day for the rest of the week. At 2:30 p.m., the guys came to our cabin and carried me down to the water. At 4 p.m., they picked me up and carried me back up the hill. I have to admit, the first time I wondered if I’d be dropped. They were young, and one or two of them were kind of scrawny. I could see fear in one guy’s eyes, that he wasn’t sure if his strength would hold out all the way up. But it did. We found a rhythm and the rides got less dramatic as the week went on. They never dropped me. Each time, I thanked them profusely, but they shrugged it off. They carried me gently, with a joyful attitude, never grumbling that this wasn’t in their job description. In fact, they seemed to think it was a privilege to be able to do this for me. Their willing spirit and generosity moved me almost to tears. Although it was humbling to need to be carried, it was also a beautiful gift—to
realize that I am like the disabled man, in need of help, in need of grace. Carrying Each Other On Wednesdays, the camp staff has a day off. Before they leave, they put out hot dogs and hamburgers for us to cook over the campfire. After dinner, we roast marshmallows and sing campfire songs. It’s a lot of fun. But the firepit is down the big hill, and the staff guys weren’t around, so I decided to skip the meal. My friends were having none of that. For the past few years, we’ve been
Although it was humbling to need to be carried, it was also a beautiful gift part of a church small group that meets for dinner every Wednesday evening in each other’s homes. It’s our way of trying to live in community. We’ve shared our joys and pains, our resources and our lives. We are family. Six couples from our group were at camp with us. I know it grieves them to
see me struggle. I know they would do anything they could to help me. They grabbed the spinal board, picked me up and carried me down to the festivities. I felt safe, held by trusted friends who know and love me. They carried me physically. I have carried them in other ways. That’s what friends do. That’s how family works. Jesus Heals a Man In Mark 2, when the disabled man is lowered through the roof, Jesus forgives and heals him. The man takes up his mat and walks away. How I long for that— to be physically healed. I dream about going for walks with my wife without mobility aids. I believe with all my heart that God could make me walk again. I also believe that he has healed me in a deeper way through this horrible disease. MS has been a gift. Yes, it’s a gift I’d happily give back. Yes, it’s humbling, frustrating and painful for me and those around me. Yes, I get depressed, angry and sad. But it has also forced me to slow down and listen to God in the silence. It has taught me profound lessons about love, patience, grace and forgiveness. It has shown me that I am the man who needs to be carried into the presence of Jesus. And for that, I am thankful. Dion Oxford is the director of mission integration for Toronto Housing and Homeless Supports.
Staff and friends carry Dion Oxford down a steep hill to the lake at Camp Koinonia
Salvationist March 2016 21
#TRENDING
A Climate for Change Global warming is a theological issue
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ast November, political leaders and scientists from around the world gathered in Paris to attend the United Nations Conference on Climate Change. The conference produced the historic Paris Agreement, the world’s first universal pact to fight global warming. The agreement calls for a commitment to keep the rise in global temperatures well below 2 C. Scientists consider this the tipping point for catastrophic climate change. It also obligates industrialized countries to give $100 billion by 2020 to help developing nations address climate change. Poorer countries are invited to contribute on a voluntary basis. The agreement requires countries to submit climate action plans for how they will reduce carbon emissions every five years. The goal is for the world to become carbon-neutral sometime between 2050 and 2100. Climate change is a divisive social and political issue. I am not a politician or a scientist. I do, however, appreciate politicians who make climate change an issue for conversation and action, and I do believe the 97 percent of climate change scientists who say global warming is a real, human-made, potentially disastrous problem for our world. But I’m not appealing to the politics or the science of this issue, as important as they may be. Instead, I’m appealing to the theological and ethical implications. I believe my Christian faith, my love for God and my love for others, is relevant to this topic and conversation. First, let’s look at the theological implications of climate change. We Christians acknowledge and believe in a God whom we describe as “Creator.” In The Salvation Army, “We believe that there is only one God, who is infinitely perfect, the Creator, Preserver, and 22 March 2016 Salvationist
Governor of all things, and who is the only proper object of religious worship.” If we believe in and affirm a Creator, we should believe in and affirm creation. God is an artist, and creation is his handiwork, his canvas. It isn’t possible to praise an artist and trample on his paintings. But this is what climate change does. In the Canada and Bermuda Territory, we have a position statement entitled “Responsibility for the Earth.” It reads, in part: “The Salvation Army believes that God created the earth and all living things. We believe that God delights in each part of creation and fills it with intrinsic value, regardless of its utility. As such, caring for creation is an act of worship to God, while neglecting or abusing it is an act of disobedience.” Climate change is a theological issue. It’s also an ethical issue. Although the Northern Hemisphere and developed nations of the world do the most polluting and contribute the most to climate change, it is the Southern Hemisphere and developing nations of the world that are the most negatively affected. Climate change contributes to crop failure, increased flooding, severe and prolonged droughts, coastal erosion, erratic rainfall patterns and rising sea levels. These problems have negative implications for food and nutrition security, energy security, health, education and livelihoods, mostly in developing nations. Our neighbours in these parts of the world are being harmed by climate change. Climate change is a social justice issue. Kat ha r i ne Hayhoe, a worldrenowned atmospheric scientist and director of the climate science centre at Texas Tech University, has spoken about the harm climate change causes developing countries (see our inter-
view at bit.ly/1zkqtsl). As an evangelical Christian, Hayhoe argues that “our Christian values are integral to how we treat this issue. Far from holding us back, or making us doubt, or saying there’s nothing we can do, our values demand we be on the forefront of this issue. That’s what we as Christians are called to do.” My Christian faith, my love for God and my love for others, demands I care about climate change and climate justice. Does yours? Captain Mark Braye is the corps officer at Sarnia Community Church, Ont.
10 Ways to Fight Climate Change 1. Use energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs. 2. W alk, bike, take public transit or carpool whenever possible. 3. R educe your thermostat by 2 C in winter and use fans in summer. 4. Conserve water by fixing leaks and installing low-flow shower heads and toilets. 5. Wash clothing in cold water and hang to dry. 6. When replacing appliances, look for high-efficiency units. 7. S witch to power that comes from renewable resources. 8. Purchase items with minimal packaging and recycle everything you can. 9. R educe the amount of waste sent to landfill sites by repurposing clothing and household goods. 10. When gardening, select plants that are suited to your climate and require minimal watering. Source: climatechange.gc.ca
Image: © Coldimages/iStock.com
BY CAPTAIN MARK BRAYE
SPIRITUAL LIFE
Our Father … How the Lord’s Prayer can deepen your prayer life BY MAJOR RITA PITTMAN
Photo: © ingridhs/Depositphotos.com
H
ow is your prayer life? If we are honest, most of us would admit there are days when we have trouble finding time to pray. Work, church, school, family, relationships—we are always doing. Finding time to be with God can seem like an impossible task. But communication is vital to keep any relationship healthy and growing—can you imagine a friendship where you never talk to the person? Our relationship with our heavenly Father deserves to be nurtured above all others. Some time ago, I read Praying the Lord’s Prayer for Spiritual Breakthrough by Dr. Elmer Towns. He asked a question that captivated me: “What would you say if you were ushered into the throne room of God, with only one minute to request everything you needed, but didn’t know how to put it into words?” The answer: the prayer Jesus taught his disciples to pray (see Matthew 6:9-13). If you are having difficulty finding a time and place to pray, the Lord’s Prayer can be a springboard to a deeper and more disciplined daily prayer life. It gives us a model for how to pray any time and anywhere. It begins with worship, then asks for forgiveness, guidance and protection, then claims victory in an all-powerful God. Towns examines each line of the prayer, revealing lessons that will enable Christians to experience a more dynamic prayer life: Our Father in heaven. We recognize God for who he is, acknowledging that he is an awesome God with the power to create and sustain the world. But most importantly, he is your heavenly Father who loves and cares for you: “I have loved you with an everlasting love” (Jeremiah 31:3). Hallowed be your name. The word hallowed means holy. When we are drawn into the presence of a holy and majestic God, the result is to praise and worship him for who he is. We cry out, as Isaiah did: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty” (Isaiah 6:3).
Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. This is a reminder that we are to seek God’s purpose and plan for our lives, not our own: “ ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord” (Jeremiah 29:11). This is a time of trusting and yielding to God, asking him to take control of our lives and to reign supremely. Give us today our daily bread. We ask God to provide the things we need to get through the day: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). And as we ask, remember to give thanks for his provision. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. Examine your life and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any wrong attitudes and actions, then seek God’s forgiveness. Experience the wonderful feeling of being cleansed. “Search me, God, and know my heart” (Psalm 139:23). Pray for those who have sinned against you—forgive them even as God has forgiven you. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:32). Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. This is a
plea for help in achieving victory over sin. Don’t let sin overwhelm you; instead, claim victory in your life through the power of God. Ask God to guide you. “The Lord is my shepherd … he leads me … ” (Psalm 23:1-2). For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory, forever and ever. We recognize that God is sovereign and exalt him for who he is and the things he has done and will continue to do. “To the only God our Saviour be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forever more!” (Jude 1:25). Although the Lord’s Prayer is often prayed publicly, for me, it has become a very personal prayer, one that has helped me pray any time and anywhere. If you are seeking a deeper, more disciplined prayer life, I encourage you to pray the prayer that Jesus taught us. Major Rita Pittman is the divisional secretary for spiritual life development, divisional community care ministries secretary and divisional director of women’s ministries in Bermuda.
For Further Reading: Too Busy Not to Pray: Slowing Down to be with God, by Bill Hybels Salvationist March 2016 23
TIES THAT BIND
Photo: © Alesikka/iStock.com
The Long Winter Planting seeds in the dark BY MAJOR KATHIE CHIU
M
arch. The time of year when you want winter to be over. Here on the “wet coast,” people are sick and tired of the rain and gloomy grey skies. We start wanting a change, something new, or a chance to get away. Parents look for things for their kids to do during the March Break. Pastors look for ways to engage with the kids in their community, because not everyone can afford to go on vacation. What causes this kind of restlessness? In some parts of the country, winter is long and hard. It reminds me of a journey. You’re excited when the first snow falls. But then it gets tiring. You’re sick of shovelling snow, leaving early to warm up the car, tripping over wet boots and melted snow in the entrance way. At this point, you’re ready for it to be over. Spring is the light at the end of the tunnel, but it’s taking far too long to arrive. So much of our life is like winter. It’s mostly hard, repetitive work. We work and wait, hoping it pays off. If you’re fortunate to be part of the one percent who earn enough for little rewards here and there, the journey seems easier. But if 24 March 2016 Salvationist
you’re like the vast majority of Canadians, about 90 percent of the population, you’re earning an average of $38,700 a year, and there’s just no room in that budget for a trip down south. How do you keep going when winter seems to go on forever? When the hard work is endless and the rewards are few? I’ve met some families whose lives are like this. Some are surprisingly happy and content; others are disappointed with their lot in life. The problem is our values. How we spend our time and energy shows us what we value. If most of our effort goes into our careers and making money, and then the promotion doesn’t happen or the raise doesn’t come, we’re going to feel like failures. If we can’t afford the nicest car or the biggest house, we’re going to be disappointed with our lives. My husband and I have five kids and we each earn something close to the average salary. It’s not easy for our kids when their friends have cooler clothes or better gadgets. They see and they want. It happens. So we talk about values—What’s the most important thing in life? God and our relationship with
him. Family and spending time with each other. Generosity, helping others and being an influence for good in our community. Work that reflects our values and feeds the soul, something we feel proud to tell others about. We’ve tried to live in a way that exemplifies these values. Has it rubbed off on our kids? So far so good, but it’s hard work. It’s like winter. We slog through the developmental years, trying hard to teach our kids to share, to not be selfcentred, to have empathy, to consider others before themselves, to be gracious and thankful, to love God. Sometimes we wonder if we’re ever going to see the light at the end of the tunnel, the spring of parenting! The rewards do come. You won’t see it all at once, but even when you think your children are sliding in the wrong direction, you’ll hear them say something out of the blue, and realize the seeds are there, growing slowly. You’ll thank God that he helped you trudge on through that long winter. Spring is coming. Major Kathie Chiu is the corps officer at Richmond Community Church, B.C.
CROSS CULTURE
Reasonable Doubt Do true crime documentaries like Making a Murderer encourage vigilante justice? BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN
I
t’s a case that proves the old saying that truth is stranger than fiction. In 1985, a Wisconsin man named Steven Avery was convicted of rape and attempted murder, and served 18 years before finally being exonerated by DNA evidence. An attorney general inquiry revealed many instances of misconduct throughout the investigation, leading Avery to file a lawsuit to the tune of $36 million. But all refused to be well. In a twist of fate, only two years after he regained his freedom, Avery was back in the courts, accused of murdering Teresa Halbach, a local photographer. His subsequent trial and conviction, along with the ensuing appeals, is the subject of Making a Murderer, a new 10-part Netflix documentary series. The series took the world by storm early this year, generating countless headlines and sparking a furious debate over Avery’s guilt and the way in which the police and prosecution handled the case. By mid-January, more than 450,000 people had signed a Change.org petition to have Avery set free. The true crime genre has experienced a great resurgence recently, thanks in large part to the Serial podcast. Over the course of 12 episodes released in fall 2014, the first season of Serial investigated the 1999 murder of 18-year-old Hae Min Lee from Baltimore, calling into question the conviction of Lee’s ex-boyfriend, Adnan Syed. The podcast, now in its second season (which focuses on a different story), has millions of downloads and won a Peabody Award in 2015. Because of Serial, Syed’s post-conviction relief proceedings were reopened in February 2016. If you’ve watched or listened to either series, it’s not hard to understand their appeal. The in-depth documentary format gives us the feeling of investigating with the filmmakers—as they seek the truth, so do we. And because the case is real, we know the stakes are high—a
What is entertainment for the masses is a never-ending nightmare for those personally affected by the crimes person’s life hangs in the balance—and any new discovery or new piece of evidence could change everything. As with any good television drama, it’s thrilling. The documentary also gives us the opportunity to be judge and jury, hearing the case for the first time. Most of the time, the process of justice is hidden from us, taking place behind closed doors in lawyers’ offices and courtrooms. A true crime documentary lifts the veil, exposing the process to our observation—and our scrutiny. That scrutiny is why these docu-
mentaries matter. Sometimes the justice system gets it wrong, and by drawing attention to cases where mistakes have (or may have) been made, documentaries can help right that wrong. This alone should be enough to create interest in these documentaries among Christians. The fact that incarceration rates tend to be higher among vulnerable populations only underscores the need for justice seekers. Documentaries can give a voice to people who would otherwise not have one. But true crime documentaries have their pitfalls as well, not least of which is dredging up the past for victims’ families. What is entertainment for the masses is a never-ending nightmare for those personally affected by the crimes. Since Making a Murderer was released, both Netflix and the filmmakers, Laura Ricciardi and Moira Demos, have been accused of exploiting the case—and retraumatizing the family—for profit. Ricciardi and Demos have also been accused of being selective with the evidence they included in their docu-series, leaving out facts that supported Avery’s guilt. This is a legitimate concern—the court of public opinion, unlike the court of law, has no obligation to hear both sides of a case. Viewers rely on filmmakers to present a fair and balanced portrait of the events. Critics, including Halbach’s family, have called Making a Murderer one-sided. (The same could not be said of Serial, which has listeners oscillating between guilt and innocence to the very end.) Without proper ethics to guide investigations, true crime documentaries run the risk of encouraging vigilante justice—with the Internet being the ideal breeding ground for mob-like tendencies. Whatever flaws the series may have, the conversation sparked by Making a Murderer is an important one. In a January interview with Late Show host Stephen Colbert, Ricciardi and Demos shared that they see the series as a “howdunit” rather than a “whodunit”—their chief concern was documenting the justice process. More than just questioning Avery’s guilt, they hope the series will shed light on failings in that process and cause viewers to check their own biases toward people who have been accused of crimes. “Innocent until proven guilty” is a pillar of our justice system that cannot be compromised, whether a case garners national attention or not. Salvationist March 2016 25
CROSS CULTURE
IN REVIEW The Old Testament is coming to the small screen this month with the new TV series Of Kings and Prophets. According to Deadline, Of Kings and Prophets will be “an epic biblical saga of faith, ambition and betrayal as told through the eyes of a battle-weary king, a powerful and resentful prophet and a resourceful young shepherd on a collision course with destiny.” Executive producer Chris Brancato has said that the show will be “faithful” to the story of Saul and David, while filling in “the psychological complexity and motivations of these characters.” How well it lives up to that goal is up to viewers to decide.
Strong and Weak
Embracing a life of love, risk and true flourishing BY ANDY CROUCH As executive editor of Christianity Today, and author of books such as Playing God and Culture Making, Andy Crouch is one of the best-known and influential writers in the Christian world today. In his new book, Strong and Weak, Crouch looks at leadership, arguing that the best leaders are those who are both strong and weak. Such leaders are people who use their authority for the benefit of others, while also being willing to face and embrace suffering. For Crouch, the prime example of this kind of leadership is Jesus, who wielded tremendous power yet also exposed himself to hunger, ridicule, torture and death. Rather than being opposites, Crouch writes, strength and weakness are meant to be combined in every human life and community. Only when they come together do we find the flourishing for which we were made.
The Little Prince
Originally published in 1943, The Little Prince continues to captivate readers young and old, selling two million copies each year even today. This month, an animated adaptation hits theatres, voiced by a star-studded cast that includes Jeff Bridges, Rachel McAdams and Paul Rudd. The book tells the story of a pilot (Bridges) who crashes in the Sahara Desert and meets a young prince, who lives on an asteroid called B-612. The prince comes to earth as he is travelling the universe, meeting adults on different planets and hearing their stories. Though The Little Prince is written in the style of a children’s book, it has philosophical themes, commenting on life and human nature. One of the story’s key themes is expressed by the fox to the prince: “One sees clearly only with the heart. What is essential is invisible to the eyes.”
IN THE NEWS
Report Reveals 62 People Own the Same as Half the World
Oscar Nominations Lack Diversity, Spark Outcry
The richest one percent have now accumulated more wealth than the rest of the world combined, according to a new Oxfam report on income inequality. In An Economy for the 1%, Oxfam also reports that in 2015, just 62 individuals had the same wealth as 3.6 billion people—the bottom half of the world. This figure is down from 388 individuals in 2010. The report also shows that women are disproportionately affected by inequality—of the current top 62, 53 are men and just nine are women. The report notes further that although the number of people living in extreme p over t y h a l ve d between 1990 and 2010, the average annual income of the poorest 10 percent has risen by less than $3 a year in the past 25 years. That equates to an increase in individuals’ daily income of less than a single A new Oxfam report shows that income inequality has increased significantly since 2010 cent a year.
Controversy broke out in January when this year’s Oscar nominees were announced and, for the second year in a row, all 20 best actor and actress nominees were white. Critics voiced their concerns about the lack of diversity in the Academy’s nominations on social media, using the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite. Many pointed out that the lack of diversity is a reflection of the demographics of the Academy itself: according to a 2014 survey, 94 percent of the voting members of the Academy are white and 76 percent are male. But the problem goes beyond Academy voters: a 2015 report by UCLA found that 94 percent of studio heads were white and 100 percent were male. Some prominent celebrities, including Spike Lee and Will Smith, vowed to boycott this year’s awards ceremony in the wake of the controversy. Academy president Cheryl Boone Isaacs responded in a statement, saying, “I am both heartbroken and frustrated about the lack of inclusion … and it’s time for big changes.” She said the Academy would take “dramatic steps” to change the makeup of its membership. 26 March 2016 Salvationist
Photo: © Henk Badenhorst/iStock.com
Of Kings and Prophets
PEOPLE & PLACES
EDMONTON—These are exciting days at Edmonton Temple as five senior soldiers are enrolled, two adherents are welcomed and a senior soldier renews his covenant. From left, Herb Presley, who taught the adult class; Bob Crush, Velma Crush, adherents; Don Hall, who renewed his Soldier’s Covenant; Carol Hall, Teddi Muranetz, Ian Hall, senior soldiers; Doug Fenton, colour sergeant; Caleb Young, senior soldier; Sandie Presley, pastoral care co-ordinator; Sarah Hale, senior soldier; Mjr Donna Bladen, CO; Karen Coley, Bruce Coley, who taught the youth class; and Mjr Donald Bladen, CO.
TORONTO—Fiveyear-old Samuel Namasivayam, who attends Hope CC in Ajax, Ont., receives a second-place award in a Scripture memorization and recitation competition. The annual event is organized by congregational leaders and members representing Christian churches primarily attended by Sri Lankan and South Asian nationalities. Samuel competed in the six-year-olds’ category and presented Psalm 23 and Psalm 24. On hand for the ceremony, which took place at Canada Christian College in Toronto, were Samuel’s corps officer, Cpt Jason Sabourin, and his proud parents, Ni and Yvonne Namasivayam.
Etobicoke Temple Dedicates Refurbished War Memorial
ABBOTSFORD, B.C.—Adherents and junior soldiers are enrolled and welcomed at Cascade CC. Front, from left, Corrie Franson, children’s co-ordinator; Gracie Organ; Madi Franson; Samuel Watt; James Watt; Preston Nelson; Charlie Franson; Pam Rose; Jan Watson; and Cpt Jodi Dunstan, CO. Back, from left, Cpt Mark Dunstan, CO; Shayne Stanton; Heather McCuish; Don Humeny; Ann Humeny; Mjr Fred Jackson, holding the flag; Valerie Pilgrim; John Pilgrim; Ines Dicks; and Mike Dicks. SIMCOE, ONT.—Simcoe CC celebrates as a senior soldier and a junior soldier are enrolled, and eight junior soldiers renew their pledges. Front, from left, Cpt Stephen Holland, CO; Santina Pope, new senior soldier; Jenna Ryerse, new junior soldier; and Kyle VanEvery. Middle, from left, Evan Ouwendyk, Hailey VanEvery, Grace VanEvery and Noah Ouwendyk. Back, from left, William Ryerse, David Cooper, Ashleigh Ryerse and Cpt Karen Holland, CO. WINNIPEG—During a recent visit to Booth University College, the Hon. James Allum, Manitoba’s minister of education and advanced learning, toured the facilities and spent time with staff and students. From left, Dr. Donald Burke, BUC president; Samantha Licandra; Michelle Pinera; and James Allum.
TORONTO—To mark the end of the First World War, many corps across Canada dedicated memorials to their fallen soldiers and those who returned home. In 1920, Toronto’s Dovercourt Citadel erected a new pulpit to honour the corps’ 57 people who had served, including three who had made the ultimate sacrifice. A similar memorial was added following the Second World War and both were displayed at Etobicoke Temple from 1969 until they were retired to The Salvation Army Archives in 2014. In November, a new memorial was dedicated at Etobicoke Temple by Mjr Kester Trim, CO, that incorporates the refurbished pulpit, the names from the original two memorials and the names of those who served in the military and attended the corps in the intervening years. JoAnne Gilroy, daughter of the late Jeanne and Adrian Van Raalte of Etobicoke Temple, was present for the occasion. Adrian Van Raalte served with the Dutch Resistance throughout the Second World War.
Salvationist March 2016 27
PEOPLE & PLACES
FLIN FLON, MAN.—Five adherents are welcomed in Flin Flon. From left, Mjr Debbie Allen, CO; Grace Braaten; Nellie Brown; Phyllis Kozak; Delbert Brown; and Bill McLean. ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Seven senior soldiers join the ranks at St. John’s West Corps and proudly display their Soldier’s Covenants. From left, Mjr Terry Feltham, CO; Sharon Sansom; Jeremy Freake; Jaxon Mayo; Georgina Martin; Lorraine Foley; Celestine Clarke, colour sergeant; Jordan Mayo; Marina Parsons; and Mjr Roxann Feltham, CO.
FLIN FLON, MAN.—Seven adherents join the corps family in Flin Flon. From left, Mjr Debbie Allen, CO; Angie Gryba; Peggy McLean; Evelyn Meyers; Ed Andrusiak; Sherry and Richard Trudeau; George Chigol; and Mjr Margaret McLeod, AC, Prairie Div.
ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Front, from left, Grace Martin, Ryder Boutcher-Greening and Addison Mayo are the newest junior soldiers at St. John’s West Corps. Standing with them, from left, are Mjr Roxann Feltham, CO; Hillary Coombs, Ready to Serve instructor; Samantha Feltham, junior soldier preparation instructor; Mjr Terry Feltham, CO; and Laura Rowsell, youth director.
ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Gerald Miller retires following 10 years of faithful service as the corps sergeant-major at St. John’s West Corps. With him are Mjrs Terry and Roxann Feltham, COs.
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GITSEGUKLA, B.C.—A senior soldier is enrolled and three senior soldiers renew their Soldier’s Covenants at Gitsegukla Corps, which together with Hazelton Corps, B.C., and Sik-e-dakh Corps in Glen Vowell, B.C., comprise the Upper Skeena Circuit. Front, from left, Cpts Robert and Johannah Sessford, COs; and Cpt Joe Mulwain. Back, from left, Morris Williams, new senior soldier; Samuel Aksidan; Ted Russell; and Clyde Williams.
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28 March 2016 Salvationist
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PEOPLE & PLACES
GAZETTE
HAMILTON, ONT.—New members are welcomed at Meadowlands Corps. From left, Mjr Bev Smith, CO; RS Sharon Avery; Michael Visca, adherent; Timothy Gibbons, Michael’s uncle, holding the flag; Derek Kerr, senior soldier; and Mjr Ken Smith, CO.
Officer Retirement Following more than 45 years of service, Major Robert (Bob) Speakman retired December 31, 2015. Bob was born and raised in Buffalo, New York, as the youngest of four brothers, all of whom became Salvation Army officers. He married Doreen at Fort Erie Corps, Ont., and in 1968, they were appointed to Thorold, Ont., as envoys. In 1971, they were commissioned in the Victorious Session and served for 28 years as corps officers in New Brunswick, Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia. After ministering as staff chaplains at Scarborough Grace Hospital in Toronto for seven years, they were transferred to Toronto’s Meighen Health Centre where he was the director of chaplaincy for nine years and she served as a chaplain for four years before she retired in 2008. Bob was also a chaplain at the Old City Hall and Metro North courts in Toronto. A graduate of the Ontario Bible College and Tyndale Seminary, he is a member of the Canadian Association of Spiritual Care with a distinction of “specialist” in pastoral care. Bob and Doreen have four children, Karen Carew, Carolynn Mickeler, Cathy Gregory and Paul Speakman, and eight grandchildren.
INTERNATIONAL Appointments: Lt-Col Arja Laukkanen, CS, Finland and Estonia Tty (pro tem); May 1—Lt-Cols Nihal/Rohini Hettiarachchi, TC/TPWM, India South Western Tty, with rank of col; Lt-Cols Suresh/Martha Pawar, CS/TSWM, Sri Lanka Tty TERRITORIAL Birth: Cpt Jennifer/Shane Hillier, daughter, Kate Laura, Jan 9 Marriage: Lt-Col Beverley Woodland to Mjr Brian Slous, Dec 31 Appointments: Mjr Lorraine Abrahamse, chaplain, St. John’s Glenbrook Lodge for Senior Citizens, St. John’s, N.L. Div; Mjrs Bond/Marina Jennings, associate COs, Fort McMurray, Alta., Alta. & N.T. Div; Mjr Vida Ryan, chaplain (pro tem), Riverview—Lakeview Manor, Moncton, N.B., Maritime Div (additional responsibility); Jun 14—Lt-Col Jennifer Groves, assistant DC, Ont. GL Div Long service: 25 years—Mjrs Willis/Priscilla Drover Retirement: Mjr Robert Speakman Promoted to glory: Lt-Col Bruce Halsey, from Surrey, B.C., Dec 13
CALENDAR Commissioner Susan McMillan: Mar 3-15 Partners in Mission trip, Colombo, Sri Lanka; Mar 19-21 CFOT, Winnipeg; Mar 25-28 Easter weekend, Winnipeg, Regina, Prairie Div; Mar 29-30 Evangelical Fellowship of Canada Denominational Leaders’ Retreat, JPCC Colonels Mark and Sharon Tillsley: Mar 4-6 divisional winter youth retreat, Camp le Saisonnier, Quebec Div; Mar 13-15 divisional review, Prairie Div
120th Corps Anniversary Islandview Citadel Musgravetown, N.L.
April 8-10, 2016 Special Guests: Majors Ross and Doreen Grandy Former Corps Officers For weekend details or to send greetings, please e-mail luanne_barrow@can.salvationarmy.org
TRIBUTES PEACE RIVER, ALTA.—Corps Sergeant-Major Rod Crumb was born in New Brunswick in 1920 and promoted to glory at the age of 95. He joined the Canadian military in 1939 and was sent to England to train as a craftsman. Rod took part in the Battle of Dieppe in France during the Second World War and was taken prisoner of war. He spent three years in a prison camp before he escaped and returned to England just before the war ended. In 1953, Rod met his Saviour and became involved at the Salvation Army corps in Saint John, N.B. In the mid-1960s, he spent three years with The Salvation Army in Panama doing carpentry work. After moving to Alberta in 1970, he set up his own carpentry business and became involved at the Peace River Corps. As the corps sergeant-major, Rod was involved in a variety of ministries and is remembered for his work with a local food bank and conducting funerals. Predeceased by his daughter, Jean, Rod is remembered by his wife, Irene; daughter, Pat; four grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
ORILLIA, ONT.—Angeline Ophelia “Babe” Norton was born in Novar, Ont., in 1916 and lived in Northern Ontario as a young girl. In 1935, she married Leonard Norton, who was promoted to glory in 1994. They became Salvationists in the late 1940s when they were drawn to the Army after hearing the band play at an outdoor meeting on a Saturday evening in Huntsville, Ont. The Norton family moved to Orillia in 1951 and became active soldiers at the corps, a commitment from which Babe never wavered for the rest of her life. Babe worked for years as a hairdresser, and owned and operated her own business. A strong supporter of her corps officers, she always went the extra mile for them whenever possible. Babe held many positions as a lay leader over the years but her heart was with the youth. She loved Salvation Army music, especially a brass band. Babe’s emphasis in life was to win souls for Christ, and she made sure that her home was always open for the purpose. Babe is survived by her children Bill (Fae), Peggy (Gino), John (Gail) and Eddie (Colleen); eight grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. Salvationist March 2016 29
SALVATION STORIES
Relentless Tracing the movement of God’s love in my life
Photo: Cameron Barry
BY OLIVIA CAMPBELL
“Although I don’t know what God has planned for my future, I know it is to stand beside the broken and to love relentlessly, as he loves me,” says Olivia Campbell
W
hen I was eight, I heard about God from friends at school. Like any young child, I began to ask a lot of questions. My parents allowed me to explore them, and began dropping me off at a local church to attend Sunday school, where my questions were answered. I still didn’t know what it meant to be a Christian, but I was certain there was a God and that I wanted to follow him. In Grade 7, I became acquainted with The Salvation Army in my community, Niagara Orchard Community Church (NOCC), Ont. They quickly became my Christian family, supporting and encouraging me. The same year, I attended youth councils, where I had my first encounter with God. Although I still had many questions, I felt such peace. High school was difficult and I started to slip away from my new faith. I watched my stepgrandmother slowly die of cancer and couldn’t understand 30 March 2016 Salvationist
Everything in my journey—my fears, my plans, the things I love, even the things that hurt me—can be used for his glory why God would take her, leaving me broken-hearted. This changed how I viewed God. Although I never stopped believing in him, I stopped seeking him. I turned my eyes away. I let the world’s love replace God’s love. To fill the void, I assumed many roles—cheerleader, captain of the rugby
team, music geek, student leader, partier. I held down two part-time jobs while maintaining my position on the honour roll. Trying to be everything to everyone, seeking approval, only left me anxious and depressed, questioning my worth and identity. Although I didn’t realize it at the time, God was still working in my life and directing my path. I was accepted to Queen’s University in Kingston, Ont., my first-choice school, and awarded many scholarships. I made a fresh start. My life began to change and I liked the person I was becoming. God was also working in Niagara Falls. The new officers at NOCC, Lieutenants Jason Dockeray and Kristen Jackson-Dockeray, pursued me—even though they’d never met me. Kristen became a mentor, and helped me work through my struggles and questions. God used her to begin the process of restoring my broken heart. She believed in me and encouraged me to seek God. So did my NOCC church family, directing me to who I was missing all along: Jesus. For the past two years, I have been a delegate to Time to be Holy, the Ontario Great Lakes Division’s youth institute, which encourages youth to grow in holiness and step out of our comfort zones. The first year, stepping out of my comfort zone meant recognizing that I needed to give my life to God. This year, it meant tracing the movement of God in my life, and examining how everything in my journey—my fears, my plans, the things I love, even the things that hurt me—can be used for his glory. We were challenged to create our own commissioning. For me, this looks like mentoring teenage girls and being part of God’s work to restore people’s faith. My relationship with God changes each day. I know I need his love and grace. When I feel unlovable or broken, I find comfort in the fact that he will always lift me up and use me. He has given me a family in Christ who love me on my worst days, and who remind me of his faithful love when I can’t seem to remember. At university, I am pursuing religious and indigenous studies. I seek to be a light and source of love on my campus and in my community, always pointing to Jesus. Although I don’t know what God has planned for my future, I know it is to stand beside the broken and to love relentlessly, as he loves me.
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