Salvationist - September 2016

What Will it Take to Stop Gun Violence?

Grace Under Fire: Escape From Fort McMurray

Women’s Ministries Launches “Others” Program

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

September 2016

Salvationist.ca

Higher Education Students Give Booth University College Top Marks

EDUCATION FOR A BETTER WORLD

THE SALVATION ARMY'S ONLY UNIVERSITY COLLEGE Located in Winnipeg, Manitoba (Canada), Booth University College offers seven degree programs: Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Social Work, and five Bachelor of Arts programs (Behavioural Sciences, English and Film Studies, General Studies, Psychology, and Religion).

October 20-23, 2016

BOOTH BOUND 2016 In October, we set aside a special weekend for young Salvationists to visit our campus and experience what life as a Booth UC student is all about. From attending classes and participating in a service learning project (part of a Service Learning program unique to Booth UC) to exploring Winnipeg, enjoying the great food and shopping, and experiencing the culture – Booth Bound 2016 is an experience you don’t want to miss!

Future Leader Scholarships /Travel Grants If eligible, you will receive an all-expenses-paid Booth Bound weekend in Winnipeg!

To learn more or to apply for Booth Bound 2016, visit:

BoothBound.com

CONTENTS

Salvationist September 2016 • Volume 11, Number 9

12

Departments 5 Frontlines

Island Life: Meet Three Bermudian Salvationists

How The Salvation Army Cultivates Rural Ministry

Red Card: Corruption at the Rio Games

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

August 2016

Salvationist.ca

Ke e p Connected Salvationist August 2016

SHARING THE LIGHT

Territory’s newest lieutenants commissioned

Ke e p Connected

faithandfriends.ca

Inspiration for Living

RULER As the world watches her at the Olympics, boxer Mandy Bujold knows who is in her corner

How Music Changed One Young Life

Faith & Friends August 2016

+

Renee’s Road to Faith Lost in Victoria

Could Kim’s brother be found?

This Month:

• Isaiah Henderson grew in faith from camper to counsellor at Scotian Glen Camp

• Volunteering at The Salvation Army gave Diane Pennock a chance to help others

• Award-winning Spotlight reveals the truth in dark corners

Messengers of Light

• And more ...

Thank God for the Red Cross

by Lt-Colonel Jim Champ

FAITH &

frıends

RING



This Month:

15 Perspectives

August 2016

Twenty-four officers commissioned and ordained during a weekend of praise and worship

• Ben-Hur remake sets a falsely charged man on a collision course with the might of the Roman Empire

The Sound of Music A trip by The Salvation Army’s Canadian Staff Band changed one young life forever

• And more ...

Ring Ruler As the world watches her at the Olympics, boxer Mandy Bujold knows who is in her corner

Through the Fire

Common Ground

After losing their home, a Salvationist family finds hope amid the ashes

Do Christians and Muslims worship the same God? Major Ray Harris examines the question

Just for Kids August 2016

This Month:

Hi kids!

Match the pictures to their shadows.

This Monday, August 15, is Discovery Day in the Yukon Territory. This holiday commemorates the discovery of gold there.

George Washington Carmack was the first person to find gold in Bonanza Creek, Yukon, in 1896.

ISSUE

33

Gold is very valuable. But Jesus said that “heavenly” riches are even more valuable. What do you think He meant?

Find out in this issue of Just for Kids.

Fun Yukon Facts!

16 Spiritual Life

25 People & Places

Columns 4 Editorial Education for a Better World

by Geoff Moulton

21 #Trending Under the Gun

by Captain Mark Braye

22 Herstory Dressed to Kill

by Lieutenant Kristen Jackson-Dockeray

23

• “Yukon” comes from the Athapaskan word “yu-kunah,” which means “great river.” It refers to the Yukon River, which is 3,600 kilometres long

• The capital of the territory is Whitehorse • About 37,000 people live in the Yukon with 28,000 of them living in Whitehorse • The territory is home to 14 different First Nations peoples • Yukon’s Carcross Desert is the world’s smallest desert at 642 acres • The Yukon flag is divided into three colours: green represents the territory’s forests, white represents snow and blue represents lakes and rivers

• Visit the Yukon Territory • Have supper with Jesus and His disciples • Plus stories, puzzles, colouring, jokes and more!

Keep Connected

24 Cross Culture

Fight for What’s Right

by Brenda Wootten

• Discovery Day has been an official holiday in the territory since 1911 • Yukon is one of three territories in Canada • The highest mountain in Canada, Mount Logan, is located in the Yukon

A Place at the Table

by Carla and Jonathan Evans

30 Salvation Stories

• After gold was discovered there in 1896, 100,000 prospectors moved to the Yukon. The territory’s “gold rush” only lasted three years

• Find out why Jesus is the light of the world • Meet Ruth and Boaz

Your friend, Kristin

Did you know The Salvation Army is at work in China? Learn more at salvationist.ca this month.

Features 8 Higher Education The Salvation Army’s only university college is poised for the future.

by Kristin Ostensen

12 Grace Under Fire As Fort McMurray burned, Lieutenant Tinisha Reid struggled to get her cancer-stricken father to safety.

by Giselle Randall

17 Beyond Shelter Seeking housing—and justice—for those most at risk.

by Mary Ellen Eberlin

18 Retired. Now What?

Ministry may change, but the call continues.

by Major Geoffrey Groves

19 Adopted by the Army How growing up in a Salvation Army boys’ home set me on the path to officership.

by Colonel Nihal Hettiarachchi

Want to highlight Army ministry at your worship meetings? Take advantage of our “Keep Connected” promotional materials that include PowerPoint slides for on-screen announcements and bulletin inserts that summarize all the great articles in Salvationist, Faith & Friends, Foi & Vie (French version of Faith & Friends) and Just for Kids.

Download the materials at salvationist.ca/editorial/ promotional-material or write to ada_leung@can. salvationarmy.org.

Cover photo: Steve Boyd

Read and share it!

Hospital Ordeal

DAUGHTER'S VIGIL P.5

Teacher Takes on

DRAGONS’ DEN P.8

After the Crashes

9/11 MEMORIES P.14

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

faithandfriends.ca

SEPTEMBER 2016

20 Connecting the Dots A candidate reflects on her call to officership.

by Emily Newbury

23 Setting Up Shop In the market for products that bring hope? Women’s ministries department launches Others program in Canada and Bermuda.

by Major Shirley King

Jerry Howarth

TORONTO BLUE JAYS ANNOUNCER BROADCASTS HIS FAITH P.16faithandfriends.ca I SEPTEMBER 2016 • 1

Salvationist September 2016 3

EDITORIAL

Education for a Better World

W

hen I asked my six-yearold what he enjoyed most about Grade 2, he told me: “Lunch is my best subject, and then recess.” My wife joked that he takes after his dad. Most parents hope their children will go on to pursue a higher education that prepares them well for their chosen career. But there is a lot of pressure these days. We could all use a little more recess.

Being a student can be nerve-wracking. Choosing your courses, finding your way around campus, struggling to make new friends, worrying about grades, and the list goes on. Thankfully, Booth University College is a place where students feel at home. In addition to pursuing academic excellence, the school offers small class sizes, warm fellowship and solid biblical grounding.

Booth is the only degree-granting institution in the Salvation Army world. That’s quite an accomplishment for what started as a small Bible college in Winnipeg in 1982. Their slogan, “Education for a Better World,” speaks to their commitment to make learning practical in ways that further God’s kingdom and the mission of The Salvation Army. I’ve taught writing courses at Booth, and I’ve found the students keen and motivated to make a difference.

You can read more about Booth’s Vision 2020 and its expanding programs, 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 September 2016 Salvationist

including the School for Continuing Studies, in the article on page 8. Together with the College for Officer Training, Booth has positioned itself as the premier institution of learning for the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

Booth University College is a place where students feel at home.

of Faith & Friends. If you’re a Toronto Blue Jays fan, you’ll appreciate the cover story on Jerry Howarth, as well as the many other testimonies of faith. We’ve made some major adjustments to the magazine to make it more readable and contemporary. Take a second look, and when you’re done, pull it out and pass it along to a friend who needs to hear the good news of the gospel.

GEOFF MOULTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Elsewhere in this issue of Salvationist, you’ll learn about the “Others” program, launched by the women’s ministries department, which enables you to purchase attractive products crafted by overseas workers who are paid fairly for their efforts (page 23). You can read how Lieutenant Tinisha Reid got her cancer-stricken father out of Fort McMurray, Alta., just in time, and the touching Silver Star ceremony that capped her time at training college (page 12).

And find out how a destitute boy from Sri Lanka rose to the position of territorial commander (page 19).

Lastly, in the centre of this issue you’ll find a freshly redesigned copy

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.

Subscriptions

Annual: Canada $30 (includes GST/ HST); U.S. $36; foreign $41. Available from: The Salvation Army, 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto ON M4H 1P4.

Phone: 416-422-6119; fax: 416-422-6120; e-mail: circulation@can.salvationarmy.org.

Advertising

Inquire by e-mail for rates at salvationist@can.salvationarmy.org.

News, Events and Submissions Editorial lead time is seven weeks prior to an issue’s publication date. No responsibility is assumed to publish, preserve or return unsolicited material. Write to salvationist@can.salvationarmy.org or Salvationist, 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto ON M4H 1P4.

Mission

The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world. Salvationist informs readers about the mission and ministry of The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda. salvationist.ca facebook.com/salvationistmagazine twitter.com/salvationist youtube.com/salvationistmagazine instagram.com/salvationistmagazine

FRONTLINES

World Leaders Attend Anniversary Celebrations in Papua New Guinea

G

eneral André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox, World President of Women’s Ministries, brought encouragement to Salvationists in Papua New Guinea, leading 60th anniversary celebrations in June.

Following officers councils, a welcome rally marked the beginning of the PNG Northern Congress. Representatives of tribes from the North Western Division sang and danced in colourful traditional costumes. People gathered from all over the Highlands and North Coastal areas, with some travelling for as long as nine hours over difficult terrain to worship and to hear God’s message.

The congress included events for men, women and youth. Hundreds of people moved forward to pray at each event in response to the Bible messages.

A highlight of the week was a march of witness that demonstrated the strength of The Salvation Army in the north of

General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox meet Papua New Guineans

Papua New Guinea, as more than 1,000 Salvationists proudly marched through

the town, stopping traffic and drawing crowds.

General Bramwell Tillsley Releases New Book

Photo: Timothy Cheng

G

eneral Bramwell H. Tillsley (Rtd) launched his latest book, a compendium of his writings entitled It Is Written: The Collected Works of Bramwell H. Tillsley, in June. General Tillsley was on hand to sign copies at the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s commissioning and ordination weekend in June in London, Ont., and at a special chapel service at territorial headquarters the following week.

“Few Salvationists have proclaimed, taught and penned The Salvation Army’s Wesleyan theological underpinnings, and in particular those concerning the biblical teaching of holiness, more than … General Bramwell H. Tillsley,” writes Commissioner William W. Francis, former territorial commander of Canada and Bermuda, in the foreword.

It Is Written brings together three of the General’s books, Manpower for the Master (1978), Life in the Spirit (1986) and This Mind in You (1990), along with two War Cry series, Troublesome Texts (1964/65) and The Beatitudes (1997).

“General Tillsley’s writings cover a broad range of topics,” notes Geoff Moulton, editor-in-chief and literary secretary, “including the work of the Holy Spirit, profiles of Jesus’ disciples, the Beatitudes and difficult scriptural passages. With its deep Bible knowledge and lively anecdotes, this is a book that students of the Word will return to again and again.”

The book also includes a brief original biography that traces General Tillsley’s journey from his early years in Kitchener, Ont., to becoming the 14th international leader of The Salvation Army.

General Bramwell Tillsley launched It Is Written during commissioning weekend in June. From left, General Tillsley’s son, Colonel Mark Tillsley, chief secretary; General Bramwell Tillsley; Mjr Michael LeBlanc, supplies and purchasing secretary; and Geoff Moulton

It Is Written: The Collected Works of Bramwell H. Tillsley is available in paperback at store.salvationarmy.ca, 416422-6100, orderdesk@can.salvationarmy.org. For the e-book, visit amazon.ca.

Salvationist September 2016 5

FRONTLINES

W

World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Leads Camps in N.L.

omen from across the Newfoundland and Labrador Division gathered for two weekend camps led by Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, World Secretary for Women’s Ministries, returning to her home territory and division.

Close to 400 women attended the two camps, held at Twin Ponds Camp and Camp Starrigan in May and June. Worship leadership for the weekends was provided by Commissioner Peddle’s daughters and son-in-law, Stephanie Forystek and Captains Krista and Tim Andrews, divisional youth secretar-

ies, Newfoundland and Labrador Division.

In the opening session on Friday evening, Captain Krista Andrews interviewed and introduced Forystek and Commissioner Peddle, giving opportunity for all three to share their personal testimonies. Commissioner Peddle then introduced the theme for the weekend, “Luggage of Life,” encouraging the women to let go of the unnecessary baggage that can hinder their walk with Christ. Her first message focused on the story of the woman caught in adultery (see John 8:1-11).

On Saturday, Commissioner Peddle spoke from Luke 13:1017, the story of the bent-over woman, drawing a connection between her and women who may be bent over with the challenges of life. She spoke words of encouragement, emphasizing God’s love for them and that when we reach out to him, Jesus can do great things.

Commissioner Peddle also introduced the women’s ministries’ territorial project for 2016, supporting ministries in Liberia. She shared insights into the lives of the people of Liberia and gave thanks to God for the funds raised, which totaled more than $19,000.

In the final session on Sunday morning, Commissioner Peddle spoke about grief and grace through the story of Hagar and encouraged the women to know Christ in a personal way.

Many women came to the mercy seat and some accepted Christ for the first time. An offering was taken on Sunday morning that raised $2,600 for overseas small missions projects.

Mjr Marilyn Shirran, DSWM, N.L. Div; Cpt Krista Andrews; Stephanie Forystek; Commissioner Rosalie Peddle; and Lt-Col Jean Hefford, then DDWM, N.L. Div, provided leadership at two recent women’s camps

E

Survey Measures Spiritual Health

arlier this year, the Canada and Bermuda Territory invited officers and leaders across the territory to participate in an online survey to gauge their spiritual health. The survey was designed by the spiritual life development and pastoral care departments and conducted by Andrew Grenville, a 30-year research veteran and member of the national advisory board. Offered in both English and French, the 18-question survey was sent by e-mail to 800 officers and leaders, of whom 527 responded.

Questions covered such topics as the practice of spiritual disciplines, mentorship, Sabbath rest and spiritual struggles.

As the results were analyzed, two themes differentiated people: overall spiritual health and perceptions of how supported or alone they were. Graphing the results identified four groups: healthy and supported (28 percent); healthy but stretched (23 percent); spiritually thirsty but supported (30 percent); and spiritually thirsty and lonely (18 percent).

6 September 2016 Salvationist

Words that describe your spiritual life 54%

Genuine Enjoyable Rewarding Satisfied Interesting Emotional Dissatisfied Rational Vibrant Lethargic Disappointment Boring Miserable

46% 43% 38% 36% 23% 18% 15% 14% 14% 9% 5% 1% 0%

10%

20%

The results of the survey were discussed at the territorial leaders’ conference in May and a number of concrete actions were suggested to strengthen the

30%

40%

50%

60%

spiritual health of officers and leaders.

The full survey results and list of actions recommended at the conference can be found at saspirituallife.ca.

FRONTLINES

he Salvation Army is supporting Seeds of Life, a community growing project in Alberton, Ont., to raise funds for the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, a partnership of 15 churches and church agencies working together to end hunger. The Army has been a member of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank since 1996.

The Seeds of Life project is led by Scott Brooks, who has donated 74 acres of farmland, growing corn, wheat and soybeans on a three-year rotation. Once the crop is harvested and sold, the proceeds go toward sponsors’ accounts at the Canadian Foodgrains Bank.

“We are sponsoring 20 acres,” says Major Gillian Brown, former director of the world missions department. “The funds, which are matched 4:1 by the Canadian International Development

Agency, will allow us to support Army Canadian Foodgrains Bank. For more projects overseas.” information, call the world missions To date, the Army has worked department at 416-425-2111. closely w it h Na za rene Compassionate Ministries, providing f unding and technical support for a food security project in Bangladesh.

“But we anticipate developing our own project over the coming year, to support Salvation Army ministry in one of the countries where we have been laying the ground work,” says Major Brown.

Individuals and churches can support the Seeds of Life Mjr Gillian Brown; Mjr Brenda Murray, director of world missions; project and designate The and Scott Brooks attend a launch event for the project in Salvation Army’s account at Alberton, Ont.

Territory Announces Formation B.C. Division Puts Mission in of Canadian Staff Songsters Motion anada and Bermuda will soon in the Canada and Bermuda Territory,” have a songster brigade at the Colonel Tillsley said.

C

Photo: Kristin Ostensen

territorial level. Colonel Mark Tillsley, chief secretary, announced the formation of the Canadian Staff Songsters (CSS) at the welcome celebration of commissioning weekend in June.

“The Canadian Staff Songsters will endeavour, by its example, to set the standard for all aspects of Salvation Army vocal ministry, including worship, evangelism and integrated mission,

Under the musical leadership of Major Leonard Ballantine, the CSS will facilitate worship, lead music workshops in divisions, support territorial events and raise awareness of the mission of The Salvation Army through musical outreach.

Lt-Colonel Wendy Waters, assistant territorial secretary for women’s ministries, will be the group’s executive officer. Supported by the music and gospel arts department, Lt-Colonel Waters will provide spiritual, organizational and administrative leadership to the CSS. It is anticipated that their premier performance will be in the Christmas season of 2016.

Mjr Leonard Ballantine (right) will lead the new Canadian Staff Songsters, with support from Craig Lewis and the music and gospel arts department

Salvationists who are interested in auditioning should contact Craig Lewis, territorial secretary for music and gospel arts, at craig_lewis@can. salvationarmy.org.

M

ore than 300 delegates gathered at The Salvation Army’s Cascade Community Church in Abbotsford, B.C., for the fourth British Columbia divisional social services conference. The theme of the conference was Mission in Motion.

“As Salvationists our mission is not a sedentary one but one of action, advocacy and compassion, and one of offering hope to those who are experiencing the most challenging circumstances of life,” said Lt-Colonel Larry Martin, then divisional commander, addressing the delegates.

With the growing complexities and ever-increasing demands upon the Army’s services, the conference’s purpose was to encourage staff, volunteers and officers, and equip them in their respective roles. Some of the presentations at the three-day conference included a panel discussion on physician-assisted death and workshops on topics such as “Trauma Informed Support for Human Trafficking and Sex Trade Survivors,” “Housing First for Whosoever” and “Combatting Compassion Fatigue and Vicarious Trauma.”

Salvationist September 2016 7

Photo: Giselle Randall

T

Army Plants Seeds of Life

Higher Education The Salvation Army’s only university college is poised for the future.

8 September 2016 Salvationist

acclaimed, and the campus is close to her hometown of Elie, Man. But it was the personal connection that brought her to Booth’s doors.

“I had a friend, a few years ahead of me, who was going to Booth and she said that it was a positive experience for her,” says Conway. “The class sizes were small, it was a Christian environment, and the teachers cared about you.”

Not wanting the same experience as her two older siblings—“They went to huge universities where the classes had 300 people”—Conway applied to Booth, where she found not just an education, but a community.

From Bible College to University Booth University College began in 1982 as Catherine Booth Bible College, gradu-

ating to William and Catherine Booth College in 1997 and its current status in 2010. It is the only degree-granting institution in the Salvation Army world.

Today, Booth offers seven bachelor’s degree programs and two certificate programs on its Winnipeg campus, with further programs and courses offered through the School for Continuing Studies (SCS). As Booth has increased its offerings, enrolment on campus and in the SCS has also increased steadily for the past nine years.

“A lot has been accomplished over the last 10 years,” says Dr. Marjory Kerr, Booth’s president. “Booth has weathered many challenges and we’re now in a position of strength as we develop our reputation as a Christian university college of choice.”

Photo: Steve Boyd

B

eth Conway came to Booth Un iversit y C ol lege i n Winnipeg two years ago.

She had taken a year off after high school, working part time at a grocery store while thinking about what she wanted to do with her life.

The answer came when she met a social worker.

“I had some experiences in my life and with friends that showed me there was a need for good social workers,” she says.

“And for a long time, I had been trying to picture myself in different jobs, and always thought, That’s not something I can do. But when I encountered this social worker and job shadowed her, it clicked. I finally thought, I can see myself doing this.”

Booth’s social work program is widely

BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN

Rooted in Faith The bachelor of social work is the largest program at the university college’s Winnipeg campus.

“Booth’s social work program is one of only two programs delivered in faithbased institutions in Canada, and it’s rooted in the Salvation Army heritage of hope, social justice and mercy,” says Bonnie Bryant, who has been program director since 2000.

“In the early days of the program, the community didn’t believe that you could deliver social work within a Christian institution—the students would be biased, they would be evangelizing, they wouldn’t be able to meet clients where they are. So even setting up practicums was a challenge,” she notes. “But when I look at where we are today, there isn’t a field of practice that our students are restricted from.”

Booth students complete practicums in various places, from hospitals to Indigenous agencies, and have further opportunities to hone their skills through the program’s unique “socialwork lab.” The lab allows students to role-play different scenarios and watch the videos afterward. “It’s a great way for them to look at how their skills are developing,” says Bryant.

That practical experience, combined with classroom learning, pays off—Booth’s social work students have a 96-percent employment rate upon graduation.

Unique Opportunities As Booth continues to increase its offerings, one of its newest programs is the bachelor of arts in psychology, which launched in 2015 under the direction of Dr. James Cresswell.

“We designed a program that emphasizes applied psychology,” says Cresswell.

“Our students have the opportunity to do a lot of community-based, communityengaged research.”

For example, last fall, students in Cresswell’s personality psychology course completed a research project for a

settlement agency that assists newcomers. The agency’s director noted that some of the clients bounced back and thrived after immigrating, while others did not.

“The director asked my students to find out, How do we predict who’s going to do well and who’s not?” says Cresswell.

“Because, with limited resources, you want to put your money where the people need it most.”

The students spent four months

nothing about. And I loved English, so, even in the courses that weren’t business, I gained knowledge that I’ll use the rest of my life.”

Along with the diversity of courses, Loner appreciated the variety of teaching methods used at Booth.

“The head of the business department, Angela Davis, catered to so many different learning styles,” says Loner. “It wasn’t just, ‘Here’s a lecture, here’s your homework.’ Almost every class we did something different. We’d learn about something and then apply it.”

Ref lecting on her experience at Booth, Conway says, “I’ve realized that I need to interact with the ideas and ask questions to solidify all the connections that my mind is making. In a small class, it is a lot easier to have a conversation with the professor.”

Tailoring the educational experience

For Dr. James Cresswell, Booth’s psychology program is where academics meet application. “Our students have the opportunity to do a lot of community-based, community-engaged research”

doing a literature review on the topic of resilience, and developed a model for resilience and how it relates to adaptation. Then they made a presentation to the agency and developed an assessment tool for the agency to use.

“Not many people get those kinds of opportunities while they’re undergraduates,” Cresswell says.

Applied Learning While each student chooses a major, core curriculum and elective requirements ensure students receive a well-rounded education.

For Alicia Loner, who graduated with a bachelor of business administration last April, the non-business courses were very valuable. “Especially world religions,” she says. “I learned about different cultures and religions, which I had always wanted to study but knew

“Booth has so much life to it,” says Beth Conway, a third-year student. “I thoroughly appreciate and enjoy my school”

to individual students is one of Booth’s strengths, Bryant believes. “We know our students, and when you know your students, you can work with them and help to stretch them, to maximize their potential,” she says.

“I think the best thing about the professors is that you can go up and talk to them, inside and outside class,” says Conway. “They care about who you are and where you’re going.”

A Christian Perspective As a Salvation Army institution, all of the instruction at Booth is infused with the Christian faith.

Salvationist September 2016 9

Photos: Steve Boyd

In 2014, Booth launched a strategic plan, Vision 2020: The Road to Booth University, to guide the institution’s development in the years ahead. One of the plan’s six priorities is growing Booth’s university profile. “This means ensuring a vibrant culture of learning, leveraging our existing academic programs and developing new ones,” says Kerr.

“One way in which we try to embody the faith, as expressed through the Army, is our focus on service and engagement in the community for the betterment of social good,” says Cresswell, pointing to Booth’s slogan: “Education for a better world.”

All of Booth ’s instructors are Christians, which means that faith is part of the ongoing discussion.

“The professors will mention things like their church experience, or their personal experience with God, and it adds a richness to the discussion, because there’s a difference between exploring an idea that you don’t believe in, and exploring something that is real to you,”

says Conway.

Unlike some Christian institutions, Booth has open enrolment, so not all students share that faith. In the social work program, approximately 40 percent of students come from other backgrounds and worldviews.

“It enriches the program because it gives students the opportunity to look at diversity,” says Bryant. “When they finish the program, they’re going to be working with people with diverse worldviews, so to have those discussions in the classroom is invaluable.”

Bryant often sees the impact of Booth’s Christian teaching at the end of the program, when her students put

together a portfolio, reflecting their experiences there. “Even if they weren’t Christians when they came into the college, they’ll talk about the influence of the environment and the religion courses on them. Sometimes we have students who have had a faith background early in their life and reconnect with it while they’re in the program.”

Finding God Loner’s faith was on the rocks when she arrived at Booth in 2013. “I wasn’t sure how I wanted God in my life, and I wasn’t even sure if I believed in God,” she says.

“Going to Booth was a scary decision because it would force me to face that.”

School for Continuing Studies Expands Booth’s Reach

Photo: Timothy Cheng

Booth’s School for Continuing Studies (SCS) launched in April 2014, fulfilling one of Vision 2020’s strategic priorities.

Dean Lt-Colonel Susan van Duinen shares how the SCS is making an impact in—and beyond— our territory.

Why was opening the SCS a priority for Booth?

Booth’s focus is education for a better world, and what better way to reach the world than through online education. Booth always had an element of distance education, but we wanted to enhance that.

Photo: Major John Murray

What kinds of courses does the SCS offer?

There is a strong Salvation Army focus, which is good—the Canada and Bermuda Territory is blessed to have a denominational educational institution. Booth provides the academic religion training for our cadets, and after commissioning they work with the SCS to complete their degree.

What we want to do in this next phase of our development

The School for Continuing Studies is bringing Booth University College to Salvationists such as these cadets in Havana, Cuba

10 September 2016 Salvationist

is to open up some of these courses and certificates—for example, our certificate in not-for-profit management. Many of our courses focus on leadership.

What’s next for the SCS? We want to develop a fully online degree—it’s not a matter of if, but what. What is our niche as a Salvation Army educational institution? We’re at the beginning of the research stage; we want to offer something that will meet a need.

We’re also looking beyond our territory. We’re currently developing a program of studies for the United States, a certificate in Kroc leadership, for staff at all the Kroc centres. This year, the associate dean and other instructors have taught in Cuba, Costa Rica and Argentina. Those courses—theological courses for cadets and officers—have always been well received and well attended.

Doing Business Differently I come from a business background, but I wasn’t long into the Army when I realized that we do business quite differently. My area commander approached me and asked if I would be interested in the certificate for notfor-profit management at the SCS, and when I looked at what courses were offered, it was perfect for my role at the Booth Centre.

One of the instructors, Lt-Colonel Neil Watt, had this phrase: “understanding administration as ministry.” That threw me for a loop. I signed on as an officer for front-line ministry. But as I took the courses, that started to resonate with me and at the end, I had a complete understanding that these courses were exactly what I needed to do. I handle the finances at the Booth Centre and the not-for-profit certificate has given me a better understanding of what needs to be done here.

—Captain Tony Brushett, Assistant Executive Director, Ottawa Booth Centre

Loner grew up in The Salvation Army and started attending Living Hope Community Church when she moved to Winnipeg. “It was a welcoming church, really multicultural, and there were tons of kids,” says Loner, who was involved with Sunday school and kids’ club.

Though she entered Booth with doubts, she reached a turning point in her faith during her second year, when the university college hosted a Time to Be Holy conference. “It was a whole weekend of taking time away from real life and worshipping God, and learning how we can be holy the rest of our lives,” she says.

As with Loner, Conway was raised in a Christian family but came to Booth with mixed feelings about her faith.

“When I finished high school, I was in a bad place,” she says. “There was a lot going on, and I didn’t stay connected to God.” During the summer after her first year, Conway decided to give her faith another shot. “Going into my second year, the difference was night and day,” she says. “Suddenly I could see all of the spiritual aspects to my school that I had been oblivious to my first year.

The atmosphere was almost charged with joy.”

For Conway, that feeling comes from the community itself: “It’s in the little conversations, it’s how they treat you— their faith shows.”

Community Building Loner, who lived on campus throughout her studies and was a resident assistant for two years, says the campus atmosphere reminded her of a Salvation Army camp. “We’d go to classes during the day, and then we’d hang out in the common room, watch movies, go out to restaurants,” she says. “Even though we were in school, it felt like home.”

Booth has twice-weekly “community gatherings” that can take various forms, from chapel services to discussion groups. “It’s about bringing the community together, and that includes students, staff and faculty,” says Kerr.

“It’s not a traditional university experience,” Loner says. “The focus isn’t on just school, it’s on the community, your friends, your faith. It’s a school that impacts the rest of your life, not just your education.”

For Conway, the past two years have been even better than she expected. “I

“Our work as an institution of higher education is an expression of the Army’s mission,” says Dr. Marjory Kerr

was expecting school,” she says. “I was expecting hard work. And when I think of school, I think of cold, hard walls, an empty space. But Booth has so much life to it. And yes, it is hard work. But at the end of the day, even if I’m stressed out of my mind, I can still say that I thoroughly appreciate and enjoy my school, and love spending time there.”

Public welcome service for the 2016-2018 session of cadets

SEPTEMBER 18, 2016, 4PM CST Elim Chapel, 546 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba Live stream available online at Salvationist.ca

CFOT

The Salvation Army College for Officer Training Canada and Bermuda Territory

www.cfot.ca

Salvationist September 2016 11

Lt Tinisha Reid holds a picture of her father, Quentin Thomas, who was diagnosed with cancer soon after she was accepted to training college. He passed away after being evacuated from Fort McMurray, Alta.

Grace Under Fire

As Fort McMurray burned, Lieutenant Tinisha Reid struggled to get her cancer-stricken father to safety.

W

BY GISELLE RANDALL

e’re going to Fort McMurray. Today.” ThenCadet Tinisha Reid was surprised to hear those words from her husband, Stefan, one morning last May. Although her father lived in Fort McMurray, Alta., she had been to see him recently.

He was battling cancer and the end was drawing near, but as far as she knew, he was doing OK. So why the urgency? But Stefan was adamant. “There’s something telling me we have to be there.”

By 6 p.m. that evening, they were on a plane. As they flew into the city, Tinisha looked out the window. “We could see the fire outside Fort McMurray—a little red glow,” she says. “It was small. It didn’t look threatening.” But things were about to get much worse.

A New Home Tinisha’s parents, Quentin and Verna Thomas, moved to Fort McMurray in 2006, after restructuring affected Quentin’s job 12 September 2016 Salvationist

in La Scie, N.L. He decided to try the oilsands, like thousands of other Newfoundlanders, and “fell in love with the city and everyone there,” says Tinisha. “It felt like a new family, like home.”

In university at the time, Tinisha was struggling to find her place. Although she felt called to officership, something was holding her back. “So when they moved,” she recalls, “I decided to go with them and take some time away from school, to try to figure out who I was and what God wanted me to do with my life.”

Sitting around a firepit with friends one evening, she realized it was time to surrender. “From that moment, I gave everything to God,” she says. “Right from the start, Dad was supportive and encouraging. He was always one of my biggest cheerleaders.”

As Tinisha began working toward officership, she met and married Stefan, and they continued the journey together.

“I’ll be There” But soon after they were accepted to training college, they received devastating news—Quentin had been diagnosed with stage four colon cancer, two weeks before his 45th birthday.

“You hear so many horrible stories about cancer,” says Tinisha.

“But he never once complained or was upset with God, even though he had so much more to live for—he was still young, he had a brand-new granddaughter, his son just got engaged.

“He always said, ‘Don’t ask, “Why me?” Say, “Try me.” ’ He knew God was in control. His faith was so strong.”

After the diagnosis, Tinisha and Stefan wanted to put off training college. “Dad was always there for me, so I didn’t want to leave him when he needed me, or take his only grandchild away,” she says. “But when we talked about it, he got upset. He said, ‘Don’t you dare stay home for me. You have to do what God calls you to do. Don’t worry about me, I’ll be OK. All is well.’ ” Quentin went through almost 70 rounds of chemo.

Throughout his treatment, he continued to work, go to church and travel. “Even though he was extremely ill, he was never willing to pity himself,” says Tinisha. “He never stopped life for one minute. He was our Superman.”

As Tinisha, Stefan and their daughter, Rachel, moved to Winnipeg to join the Messengers of Light Session, he told them, “I’ll be at commissioning. I’m fighting for commissioning. I’ll be there.”

get to share such an important moment with him.

“Knowing his faith, and his absolute trust in God, that God was doing all things well, just made it so much easier.”

Evacuation Back in Winnipeg, Tinisha kept checking in with her mom, ready to drop everything at a moment’s notice if her dad took a turn for the worse. They waited and prayed, until the Monday morning at the beginning of May when Stefan said, “We need to go today.”

The day before, fire crews had discovered a wildfire southwest of Fort McMurray. By Monday evening, as they were flying in, it had grown from two to 1,250 hectares, and firefighters warned that it was going to get worse.

On Tuesday morning, Tinisha, Stefan and Rachel surprised her parents at home. Quentin was happy to see them, but too weak to get up. Knowing they were there, he seemed to relax.

“Knowing his faith, and his absolute trust in God, made it so much easier.”

—Lieutenant Tinisha Reid Silver Star But in March, just a few months before commissioning, doctors told Quentin that his liver was failing. There was nothing more they could do. Realizing he didn’t have much time, Tinisha flew home to Fort McMurray. Before she left, she met with Major David Allen, principal at the College for Officer Training (CFOT).

“I told him, ‘I don’t want to give my father his Silver Star after he’s gone,’ ” says Tinisha. “I want him to know he’s getting it, I want him to know why, and I want him to be able to wear it at least once while he’s alive.” The Silver Star is a pin that new lieutenants present to a parent or mentor at commissioning as a way to recognize and honour them, an expression of gratitude for their love and support.

On April 10, with the blessing of the territorial president of women’s ministries, the Fellowship of the Silver Star secretary and the CFOT, Tinisha gave her father his Silver Star during a service at their corps. The worship team sang one of Quentin’s favourite songs, He’s Been Faithful to Me, as Major Stephen Hibbs talked about how his witness of faith had been an inspiration not just to Tinisha, but to the whole congregation.

“As I was pinning him, it was a moment of thanksgiving that I’ve had such a strong, amazing dad, who through so much could still say, ‘All is well’ and that God was in control,” says Tinisha. “But there was also so much sadness, to know that he wasn’t going to make it to commissioning, that I wouldn’t

Lt Tinisha Reid shares some time at the hospital with her father, Quentin Thomas

By this point, the fire was threatening the city, but it was still on the south side of the river. Tinisha thought they were OK; Quentin and Verna lived in Timberlea, on the north side.

But at noon, the fire crossed the river.

“Abasand and Beacon Hill were on fire, and Thickwood was starting to burn,” she says. “Things started to get serious.”

When they called for an ambulance, the paramedics told them the wind was shifting again, moving the fire back south, toward the hospital, which was about to be evacuated. They said it was safest to stay put, but showed them how to move Quentin using a blanket as a stretcher.

That afternoon, the temperature soared and the fire grew.

Neighbourhood after neighbourhood received mandatory evacuation notices.

Salvationist September 2016 13

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Photo: Timothy Cheng

“We were sitting by the radio, waiting, when all of a sudden, we heard, ‘Everybody in Fort McMurray, get out,’ ” says Tinisha.

They quickly packed some clothes, pictures and videos. Friends helped carry Quentin down two flights of stairs and tried to make him as comfortable as possible in their truck.

From Confederation Way, they merged onto Highway 63, the only major road through Fort McMurray. Just a few minutes before they left, police in gas masks were directing people north, to an oilsands work camp. We can’t bring Dad north, there’s nowhere to take care of him, Tinisha recalls thinking. But for some reason, they let them go south.

“The drive through 63 was like something from a Hollywood movie,” says Tinisha. Houses on fire, flames shooting, neighbourhoods smoking and obliterated.

The highway was jammed with vehicles as almost 90,000 people fled the city. For Lts Stefan and Tinisha Reid were commissioned in June. Tinisha presented her father with a Silver Star at their home corps in April most, it took hours.

“From the time we left their door, to the time we were in the safety zone, it was about half an hour,” says Alberta and Northern Territories Division, met them at the Tinisha. “It was only God, that’s all we can say. It was God’s airport in Edmonton with a replacement as they travelled to way of letting us know that he was with us and we were going Newfoundland and Labrador for the funeral. to get out, and Dad wouldn’t have to be too long in the truck.”

“He had an amazing home going,” says Tinisha. “Even Late that evening, they arrived in Lac la Biche, Alta., and though he was gone at such a young age, he loved life, and he took Quentin to the hospital. lived it to the fullest. So we had an uplifting and encouraging worship service that reflected Dad’s life.”

All is Well Quentin had been a volunteer assistant fire chief in La Two nights later, Quentin passed away with his family and Scie. At the end of the service, firefighters provided an honour friends around him. His last words were, “I love you. I want guard and the casket was taken to the cemetery in a fire truck. to go to heaven. I want to see Jesus.”

“Stefan did the committal, and then we sang Dad’s favourite Earlier that day, they learned their house was destroyed chorus,” says Tinisha. “We ended by releasing red and blue in the fire; the Silver Star Tinisha had given her father was balloons—Superman colours—into the air. lost. Major Ron Cartmell, divisional commander for the “As we released them, we shouted, ‘All is well!’ ”

PERSPECTIVES

Thank God for the Red Cross Rather than competing, let’s complement like-minded charities.

Photo: Ottawa Sun, a division of Postmedia Network Inc.

BY LT-COLONEL JIM CHAMP

The Salvation Army and the Canadian Red Cross joined forces in 1998 to aid families of the victims of SwissAir flight 111, which crashed off the coast of Nova Scotia

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ho can forget the sight of thousands of Albertans fleeing for their lives down Highway 63? Walls of flame threatened from every side. Canadians were anxiously glued to televisions and computer screens, praying for their safety.

“Where is The Salvation Army in the midst of all this chaos?” asked one caller to my office. “Why are other charities, such as the Red Cross, all over the news and there’s hardly a mention of the Army?” It’s a fair and direct question, but the answer is complex.

The Fort McMurray fires represent the largest natural disaster in Canadian history. An entire city was evacuated.

Many of the 88,000 residents had only 30 minutes to race home, gather the family, grab one or two personal treasures and hit the road. Miraculously, no one perished in the fire, apart from the tragic road accident that claimed the lives of two young people.

After the government declared a state of emergency, the Red Cross was given oversight of the support services for displaced residents—a mammoth undertaking. It meant registering and tracking tens of thousands of people who desperately needed shelter, food and clothing.

So what about the caller’s question?

Was the Army pushed into the background by the government and various media outlets? Were we not mobilized?

Were we somehow ineffective in telling our story? Here is my response: 1. I thank God for dedicated Red Cross workers who provide a muchneeded service. We are not in competition with them or any other charitable organization that seeks to help others.

2. When disaster strikes, the focus should always be on the victims. We are there to serve in whatever way is most beneficial to the collective

effort, not to serve our own interests.

3. The Salvation Army is a multifaceted service organization. While we value our emergency disaster services (EDS), expanding our presence means diverting resources from other essential ministries.

Those who followed the news on our websites and social media channels will know that The Salvation Army was quick to spring into action. On April 30, we provided support to the Fort McMurray Fire Department and set up an Incident Command Centre in Edmonton. We partnered with charities such as Urban Rescue and served as many as 4,000 meals a day to first responders.

The hours were long and arduous.

Changing weather conditions put those on the front lines at risk. Sleeping accommodations were primitive. Our teams of volunteers stood tall in these difficult circumstances.

At the beginning of the crisis, the mayor of Fort McMurray invited the Army to provide emotional and spiritual support to citizens. The mayor understood that The Salvation Army has been a presence in the community for almost 40 years. And when the smoke clears and life returns to normal, the Sally Ann will continue to serve those in need.

On June 1, as residents trickled back in to assess what was left of their possessions, the Army was present at all eight welcome centres to greet them. As Major Ron Cartmell, divisional commander for the Alberta and Northern Territories Division, noted, “The focus was on being the hands and feet of Jesus.”

Lessons are learned every time disaster strikes. Whether it’s 9/11, the SwissAir disaster, the Red River floods or ice storms, the Army will be there. In the meantime, hats off to the Red Cross and thousands of others who reached out with helping hands to their neighbours in distress.

EDS by the Numbers •• Trained personnel/volunteers across Canada: 3,321 •• Canteens and support vehicles: 47 •• Average yearly responses (fires, first responder support, etc.): 250 •• Emergency services training courses: 17 Lt-Colonel Jim Champ is the secretary for communications for the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

Salvationist September 2016 15

SPIRITUAL LIFE

A Place at the Table Practising the Christian tradition of hospitality.

I

n our culture, hospitality is a forgotten way of life. Even in our churches, a weak cup of coffee after the morning service is often our only expression of this ancient practice. But hospitality is at the heart of our faith, rooted in God’s welcome toward us, in sending his Son to make us no longer enemies, but friends (see Romans 5:10-11). In Reaching Out, Henri Nouwen writes that this is, in fact, our Christian vocation—to convert hostility into hospitality, strangers into guests.

Showing hospitality isn’t about impressing people with our cooking and decorating skills; you don’t need to be Martha Stewart. It’s about opening our lives to others, creating a space where strangers may enter and discover the welcoming spirit of Christ.

Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury, beautifully describes our calling to “become a place where God happens for somebody else.”

This calling requires humility.

When we find ourselves with someone unknown or unexpected, different or even difficult, we are being invited to be hospitable.

It also requires time. We can provide a meal or a carefully prepared room, but the deeper need is for a sense of belonging, safety and love, expressed through the gift of presence. We can offer this gift in many ways: listening intently as someone shares, instead of thinking about what you want to say; taking off your headphones so you’re available for conversation during your commute home; inviting a neighbour’s children to join yours to play so she can have some quiet time; or sharing part of your vegetable garden with strangers.

Consider how God’s work of grace in your life can be an open and spacious meeting place for others. Here are some ideas for further reflection, study and action.

1. Prayerfully meditate on Romans 5:6-11 from The Message. Keep a journal as you pray and ask God to 16 September 2016 Salvationist

Showing hospitality isn’t about impressing people with our cooking and decorating skills.

help you become more like him in the way he welcomes and loves.

2. Read Genesis 18:1-15, 1 Kings 17:824 and Luke 24:13-35. Discuss how these stories show hospitality bringing life to both guest and host.

3. A sk yourself: How can I be a better listener? How can I offer the gifts of presence, safety and love? What obstacles keep me from offering unrushed time to others?

4. R eflect on these questions: Am I a place where God happens for others? How do I live with my own needs and failures in a way that points others to God, and creates a safe place for them to share their own needs and failures?

5. Ask a trusted and loving friend to give you honest feedback about the ways they see you living out Christian hospitality. Take the risk to also ask them to point out any “blind spots” in your life that may prevent you from being a welcoming and gracious presence to others.

6. Don’t compare yourself to others;

instead, ask God to show you the gift he has given you to share: “Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace” (1 Peter 4:9-10 ESV).

When you consider the possibilities for offering a sense of home, rest and refreshment to others, what excites you?

7. B rainstorm creative ways you can offer hospitality to strangers as a family or small group.

God is extravagant in his welcoming and giving. When Jesus sent out his disciples, he reminded them, “Freely you have received; freely give” (Matthew 10:8). In a world obsessed with status and competition, no-strings-attached hospitality is a subversive and healing practice. We can, by the Spirit, reflect the nature of our initiating, gracious, extravagant God. Carla and Jonathan Evans are the corps leaders at Boundless Vancouver.

Photo: © hookmedia/stock.Adobe.com

BY CARLA AND JONATHAN EVANS

Beyond Shelter Seeking housing—and justice— for those most at risk.

Photo: © bodnarchuk/iStock.com

BY MARY ELLEN EBERLIN

S

ocial justice is one of the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s seven strategic priorities. In a previous issue, Jessica McKeachie, public affairs director for the territory, provided an overview of the Army’s goal to promote the dignity of all people, especially the marginalized and vulnerable. One of the ways we are seeking to do this is through our response to homelessness.

In 2015, The Salvation Army’s national advisory board and the territorial management board endorsed seven operating principles (to read the principles, visit SalvationArmy.ca/shelters) to align our 54 emergency shelters with best practices in the field. Recognizing that these principles reflect a social justice approach, the social services department is championing this initiative under the mobilize banner.

The principles are the result of wideranging consultations with staff, clients, researchers and community leaders that answered the question, “What are the best practices for ending homelessness, and how can Salvation Army shelters measure effectiveness in achieving this outcome?”

For those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, The Salvation Army does so much already: we provide food and beds, but also safety and a measure of friendship and belonging. The seven operating principles ask us to do even more.

They call us to help end homelessness for those who are the most vulnerable and marginalized—those experiencing ongoing and recurring bouts of homelessness. They call us to take care of the whole person—body, mind and soul; to attend to a person’s traumatic experiences, their weaknesses as well as strengths, and their physical, emotional and mental health. They call us to meet people where they are, to accept them at their point of need and let them in.

They call us to walk alongside people who need help.

They call us to prevent people from slipping in and out of our shelters, and instead to do the hard work of finding positive, sustainable housing for people who have trouble finding it (and keeping it) for themselves. They call us to keep track of not just how many meals we serve or beds we supply or dollars we spend, but how many people we have

helped to move beyond the shelter to a better life, and to check and make sure they’re still there the day or month or year after that. The operating principles call us to excellence.

Engagement with Salvation Army shelters has included site visits in various regions, webinars with shelter leaders and staff, presentations to divisional advisory boards, meetings with divisional executive boards, one-on-one support by phone and in person, as well as the development of a series of accreditation standards specifically designed for emergency shelters.

Reactions have understandably been mixed. Some shelter managers are enthusiastic about the solid foundation and direction offered by these evidence-based principles. Others question whether the principles are required or can be enforced. They wonder if people will “buy in” when they don’t have to. Some have been quick to identify potential costs associated with specific principles and are concerned that they don’t have the necessary funds—funds that are perpetually stretched as the tide of homelessness swells.

We are engaged in a challenging change process and the journey must include open dialogue and learning from one another, recognition of regional differences and varying funder expectations, as well as access to tools, training and shared stories of success. But we are committed to this course.

We cannot do this alone; not us in the social services department, not any individual division, not any one shelter in the territory and not The Salvation Army in isolation from other partners. The seven operating principles for emergency shelters also ask us to work together as an Army, as compassionate and caring people, committed to social justice to promote the dignity of all.

Mary Ellen Eberlin is the social services secretary for the Canada and Bermuda Territory. Article prepared with assistance from Allison McDonald and Dr. Amy Fisher, consultants in the social services department.

You can read more about the seven strategic priorities at salvationist.ca/ strategic-priorities.

Salvationist September 2016 17

Retired.

Now What?

Ministry may change, but the call continues.

Photo: © SIphotography/iStock.com

BY MAJOR GEOFFREY GROVES

H

ow are you enjoying retirement?” My wife, Linda, and I must have been asked that question hundreds of times in the months since we retired. At first we’d chuckle and give the expected answer, but as time went on, I started to answer in a more serious tone, “I don’t know, because I’m not sure what retirement means for me as a Salvation Army officer.”

I still don’t have a simple answer to that question. As the months slide by I do find myself making more sense out of this new phase in my life and looking forward, with a growing sense of excitement, to where God is leading me.

In my early days of retirement, I continually asked myself, is retirement something we’ve earned? Do we deserve it because we’ve worked hard since leaving training college? Is retirement about us doing what we want to do, when we want to do it, without a thought for anyone else?

I will admit, I do enjoy living in my 18 September 2016 Salvationist

own home, with furniture that doesn’t reflect someone else’s taste, and sleeping soundly on a Saturday night. My heart doesn’t race every time the phone rings anymore, and I’m no longer staring in bafflement at the latest accounting system iteration. I’m enjoying having a less punishing schedule, and knowing I could buy that Mustang convertible I’ve always dreamed about (if my wife would let me!).

But as I reflected on this new phase, I quickly discovered that a life based around leisure, travel and possessions, a life with no responsibilities, is a life that is going to become tedious, meaningless and empty, very quickly.

To help make sense of my new situation, I did what I did when I first felt God’s call on my life to become an officer, and what I’ve done every time we were faced with major new responsibilities: I turned to verses 4 and 5 from Psalm 25: “Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Saviour, and my

hope is in you all day long.”

These verses became my daily cry to God, and, through them, I began to sense him leading me. I realized that I was troubled because I had allowed my ministry in the Army to become my identity, to define who I was. I arrogantly felt that I wouldn’t be retired for very long; the Army would soon call because they couldn’t function without me. Guess what? They didn’t, and they can! I couldn’t understand why I had fallen into this trap, because during our active years, Linda and I had always looked forward eagerly when we changed appointments, never backward regretfully.

My personal mission statement, almost from the moment I accepted Christ, was based around our territorial mission statement: to share the gospel, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the community.

God showed me that this hadn’t changed.

All I needed was some patience and he would indeed show me his ways.

As the months went by, I became more involved in the life of the corps we attend. During an unexpected visit to our local emergency room, I had a long chat with a hospital volunteer, and as a result I now work there as a volunteer porter. I am excited to continue the ministry to which God called me in 1996.

Recent ly, Rochel le a nd Joh n McAlister were special guests at our corps, in support of Partners in Mission.

During her message, Rochelle, reflecting on their years in Zimbabwe, asked herself: “Did I love? Did I love like Jesus?

Do I still love like Jesus?” I realized these were questions I often asked myself during my years of active officership, and I am asking them still, even though I now have that little “R” after my name in the dispo.

God is reminding me that my mission hasn’t changed. The ministry may be different, but the call is ongoing.

“How are you enjoying retirement?”

“It’s different and I love every minute!”

Major Geoffrey Groves retired in 2015 after serving in several corps and one social service appointment. He and his wife, Major Linda Groves, attend Barrie Corps in Ontario.

Adopted by the Army How growing up in a Salvation Army boys’ home set me on the path to officership.

I

BY COLONEL NIHAL HETTIARACHCHI

f it were not for The Serving Children in Need Salvation Army, I have no I accepted Jesus as my personal doubt that my life would Saviour when I was 10 years have ended in disaster. old. Today, it gives me great joy I was only a toddler when to share my testimony as a Sri my father left, and my mother Lankan who was adopted by found it difficult to look after The Salvation Army—through me, my sister and my brother. the Army, I developed a strong Having no other option, she faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. took me to the Salvation Army As a young man, I applied Haven, which is a home for desfor Salvation Army officership titute children in the Sri Lanka and entered training college in Territory. At the home, I was 1983 as part of the Guardians of cared for by many Salvation Truth Session. When I entered Army officers and, because of the college, Major Halsey was this, I consider The Salvation the training principal.

Army to be my parents. At The Over the past 30 years, I Salvation Army, I was given have served in various capacilove, care, security, good health ties: in corps, finance, candiand an education. dates and youth, and social I stayed at the Haven until services. I have been divisional I was five, when I transferred commander, training princito the Rajagiriya Boys’ Home pal, social services secretary, to begin my schooling. When I program secretary, chief secwas eight, I decided I wanted to retary and now territorial become a Salvation Army officommander. Out of all these cer. With that in mind, I used positions, it was a blessing to to draw the “S” from the Army Col Nihal Hettiarachchi speaks to a beneficiary of the Safe Water and serve needy children throughuniform on a piece of paper and Livelihood Development project in Sri Lanka. The project, which is out Sri Lanka as the social seroften imitated the officers who funded by the Canada and Bermuda Tty, provided this fisherman with vices secretary, because I grew came to the home on Sundays new fishing nets to help him improve his livelihood up in a Salvation Army home to conduct services. In the boys’ and have experienced the lonehomes, the officers were our role models—their love and their liness of not having a father or caring spirit touched my heart. a home of my own, and being During our school vacations, some of the children went back separated from my siblings. to their own homes. I had no place to go, but I was fortunate God has been good to me to meet a Canadian officer, Major Avril Halsey, who was servover the years and my heart’s ing in Sri Lanka as a missionary. She was kind enough to take desire is to serve him faithfully, two girls from the girls’ home and me and another boy from wherever I am, whatever the the boys’ home to her house for vacations. Years later, one of task, until the Lord whispers to those girls would become my wife. Colonel Rohini and I have me, “Come home.” I am deterbeen married for more than 20 years and have been blessed mined to show love and care to with two daughters and one son. the most needy people, to pray Major Halsey still calls me putha, a Sinhala word that means for the sick and the suffering, “son.” I call her suduamma, which means “white mother.” and to lift up the children Even though she is retired and living in Vancouver, she still Nihal as a child at Rajagiriya Boys’ to the Lord, asking for his Home cares for me and is in touch with me and my family. She came blessings. to my wedding in 1994, all the way from Canada. I also had the privilege to visit her in Canada in 2005. I thank God for Colonel Nihal Hettiarachchi is the territorial commander of the India South this Canadian officer who has had a great impact on my life Western Territory. For more information about The Salvation Army’s child sponthrough the love of Jesus Christ. sorship program, visit saworldmissions.ca.

Salvationist September 2016 19

Emily and Kyron Newbury are candidates for officership

Connecting the Dots

A candidate reflects on her call to officership.

BY EMILY NEWBURY

A

s I was growing up, I always believed that God wanted me to be a music teacher.

I spent years taking piano and vocal lessons, attended a performing arts high school, sang in one of Toronto’s top choirs and joined every music group at my corps—all because of this deep desire. I applied to universities for music education and began preparing my audition repertoire.

But throughout the process, something didn’t feel right. I couldn’t put my finger on it so I pressed through, attributing it to nerves. I wrestled with this feeling for months, and eventually decided to withdraw my applications, including to the school I had always dreamed about attending. I didn’t understand why this was happening or why I couldn’t give a logical explanation. I was angry with God. After a season of feeling discouraged, I knew I had to do something. I couldn’t sit around any longer hoping for God to 20 September 2016 Salvationist

just hand me the answer, so I enrolled in a business program at the college in my hometown. I enjoyed my studies and began to realize how relevant they were to everyday life. Things felt back on track, but something still wasn’t lining up.

Whenever I was at my corps, an unsettled feeling would wash over me and I couldn’t shake it. One evening after songster practice, I sat in a pew, searching for God’s promises in Scripture, hoping to ease the burdened feeling.

My eyes were drawn to these words: “For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’ How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in?

And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who

Emily Newbury is an administrative assistant in the office of the chief secretary for the Canada and Bermuda Territory, and a candidate for officership.

An officership information weekend will be held at the College for Officer Training in Winnipeg on October 14– 16. Contact your corps officer for more information.

Photo: Timothy Cheng

bring good news!’ ” (Romans 10:12-15).

At that moment, the peace and presence of the living God came upon me in a way I had never experienced before.

The dots began to connect in my head and I realized God’s calling on my life to become an officer. Right there in the sanctuary pew, I surrendered my will to his plans for my life.

I am always amazed how God weaves the details of our lives together. Days later, I began working in the Ontario Camping Ministries office at Jackson’s Point Camp. The divisional youth secretaries became my supervisors, and I soon learned they looked after candidates for officership in my division.

With their guidance and encouragement, I approached my corps officer and expressed my desire to become a candidate.

Since accepting his call, God’s plan has been abundantly clear. I met another candidate, Kyron, whom I now call my husband. Our divisional youth secretaries have given us opportunities to visit ministries around our division and even take part in worship services. We have had the privilege of sharing our story, and all that God has done and continues to do in our lives, from Newfoundland and Labrador to Saskatchewan.

Today, I am putting my business education to work for The Salvation Army at territorial headquarters, and I can see how valuable these skills will be as an officer someday. Even when I was blind to God’s call, he was already preparing my heart and mind for the task ahead.

As I reflect on this unfolding journey, I can see God’s hand in my life and how he has already started to equip me for full-time ministry. I can see how he made a way when there seemed to be no way. I can see how he placed people in my life to mentor and shape me. On the days I feel overwhelmed and inadequate for the task ahead, I’m reminded that I can find refreshment and comfort in the living, breathing Word of God—exactly where my surrender began.

Under the Gun Another day, another mass shooting. What will it take to change?

BY CAPTAIN MARK BRAYE

C

olumbine. Virginia Tech. Sandy Hook. Orlando. Each name, each place, brings back horrific images of terror and violence, of people killed in mass shootings. The statistics of mass shootings in the United States— defined as a single incident in which four or more people are shot or killed—are staggering. In 2015, there were 332 mass shootings and 13,441 gun deaths. From 2005 to 2015, 71 people died in terrorist attacks on U.S. soil. In the same time period, 301,797 people were killed by guns.

To be fair, the United States does not have a monopoly on gun violence. There have been mass shootings in other countries, including Canada. But what the U.S. does have is a gun culture. The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution reads: “A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.”

At the time it was written, local militia protected people—their homes, farms and livelihoods.

Today, the well-meaning intention of a document from the 1700s is used to justify the right to own guns—a right fiercely defended by lobby groups such as the National Rifle Association (NRA)— even though weapons and society have changed.

I know the pushback: “Guns don’t kill people. People kill people.” Or, “It’s a sin problem, not a gun problem.” Is it a sin problem when a toddler finds a gun and accidentally kills herself or someone else?

It has already happened more than 20 times this year. And almost 350 children

under 11 have been shot or killed.

Another argument is: “The only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun.” The chief of police in Dallas discredited this idea after the shooting in their city this past July, noting that in spite of the fact that several people near the area were exercising their right to “open carry,” five police officers were still shot and killed.

In 2015, there were 332 mass shootings in the United States.

Others say that gun control won’t work. Australia’s example proves otherwise. In 1996, a gunman killed 35 people and wounded 23 others at a resort in Tasmania. Twelve days after the incident, then-Prime Minister John Howard introduced new gun laws, including a buy-back program, gun registration,

prohibiting private sales and requiring buyers to present a “genuine reason” for needing a weapon. Since then, there have been no mass shootings.

As a Canadian, the political divisiveness and hostility surrounding this issue in the U.S. are mystifying; stronger gun regulations seem like common sense.

Many Americans are just as frustrated.

A recent documentary by Abigail Disney examines gun culture in the U.S. and raises compelling questions.

The Armor of Light focuses on Reverend Rob Schenck, a conservative evangelical who leads a ministry to politicians in Washington, D.C. A shooting in his neighbourhood causes him to advocate against gun violence, even though he loses donations and is worried about being branded a liberal.

The documentary captures the moment he meets Lucy McBath, whose unarmed 17-year-old son was shot and killed at a gas station in Florida in a dispute with a man over loud music. During their conversation, McBath says, “We’re deceived into believing that we are so powerful because we have [guns] that will protect [us]. Instead of looking to God, righteously, as the protector, we have replaced God with guns.”

At another point in the film, Schenck says, “In respecting the Second Amendment, we must be careful we don’t violate the second commandment.” Have guns become an idol? Can a Christian be pro-life and pro-gun?

After every mass shooting, people offer “thoughts and prayers” for the victims and their families. While we should pray, it’s not enough. As the Apostle James wrote, “Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?” (James 2:20 NLT). We need stronger and better laws.

Tertullian, an early Christian author, wrote, “In disarming Peter, Christ disarmed all Christians.” Are we followers of “the Way” or “the gun”?

Captain Mark Braye is the corps officer at Sarnia Community Church, Ont. Salvationist September 2016 21

Photo: © STILLFX/iStock.com

#TRENDING

HERSTORY

Dressed to Kill Do you know the true cost of your clothing?

BY LIEUTENANT KRISTEN JACKSON-DOCKERAY

22 September 2016 Salvationist

Photo: © pressmaster/stock.Adobe.com

E

ver since God fashioned garments of animal skins for Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (see Genesis 3:21), clothing has not only protected us, it has profoundly influenced our lives. Clothing can express our identity and sense of self, mark us as part of a group or display our social status. Clothing ourselves each day is a deeply political act.

Yet despite the important role that clothing plays in our lives, we rarely think about where our clothes come from or the people who make them. The fact of the matter is that the global manufacturing system is broken. In the cutthroat world of retail, consumer demand for low prices paired with the increasing price of raw materials means companies who are eager to cut costs are left with one choice: cheap labour.

Every year, 80 billion garments are produced worldwide to feed the hunger for fast and cheap fashion, but we have become increasingly disconnected from the people who clothe us—people who make barely enough to feed their families, work in unsafe conditions, or worse, have even lost their lives. In 2013, more than 1,000 garment factory workers in Bangladesh died when their building collapsed.

When we buy a piece of clothing, we often fail to recognize the true cost—that it comes at the expense of those who are most vulnerable.

This is a far cry from God clothing Adam and Eve. Imagine God in the garden, incredibly sad and disappointed in his children for disobeying him, and yet he lovingly stitches together clothing for them, demonstrating his abiding role as caretaker.

When we consider that it was God who first clothed us, it’s not acceptable that we exploit the labour of others. No one should ever have to sacrifice themselves so we can wear the latest trend.

Cheaply made clothing not only breaks the backs of the workers who supply our wants, it breaks the heart of God. So what do we do?

We need to rediscover the true

value of things and people. We need to recognize the ethical implications of our choices. We need to start asking important questions, such as, “How can I claim to want to live like Christ when I continue to buy into labour practices that exploit and dehumanize the poor?”

We who claim to be followers of Jesus need to share God’s love in the clothing we choose.

It’s not easy to make the commitment to ethical shopping. Yet as ones who are clothed with Christ (see Galatians 3:27), we have a responsibility to protect the poor, the widowed and the orphaned by demanding transparency in manufacturing, and by redirecting our spending to companies and organizations that treat people with dignity.

Where to begin? There are several options: •• Shop second-hand. Yes, this benefits The Salvation Army, but it also reduces the demand for new goods while offering an economical alternative to fair trade.

•• Buy products from companies with transparent supply chains.

Companies such as online clothing retailer Everlane provide detailed information on their manufacturing process so consumers can make an informed decision before purchasing. Avoid companies that make no mention of their factories or

are known to have unsatisfactory auditing practices. Check out the 2016 Australian Fashion Report for more information: baptistworldaid. org.au/assets/Be-Fair-Section/ FashionReport.pdf.

•• Buy fair trade. The World Fair Trade Organization provides an international standard and guarantee system for its members, which commit to fair trade principles and practices throughout their supply chains. The fair trade market is growing rapidly and it is becoming easier and easier to find items produced in a way that contributes to sustainable development. Some of my favourites are: krochetkids. org, iamjustone.ca, etsy.com/shop/ StitchedTogetherUG, thegivingkeys. com, elegantees.com, thelittle market.com.

Perhaps fast fashion seems difficult to overcome. You can’t change everything right away. But small changes can make a difference. Human lives are at stake. As we clothe ourselves each day, we can take part in a political act that cares about the vulnerable, the hurting, the exploited. We can fashion a response that says people matter.

Lieutenant Kristen Jackson-Dockeray is the divisional youth secretary in the British Columbia Division.

Setting Up Shop In the market for products that bring hope? Women’s ministries department launches Others program in Canada and Bermuda.

BY MAJOR SHIRLEY KING

Others—Trade for Hope is a Salvation Army social enterprise that creates employment opportunities for people connected to Army community development projects and corps.

All products are handmade or include elements of craftsmanship

time an Others product is purchased, producers are paid a fair wage. It means children go to school, women learn to read and families have enough to eat. Others is a partnership that changes lives.

And we can be part of it in Canada and Bermuda. The women’s ministries department is launching the Others

program as a way to raise awareness of global social justice issues and support the work of the international Salvation Army. We encourage each division in the territory to promote Others with a women’s ministries event. Participants will be able to shop at this event, knowing they are making a difference with every purchase. Program kits are available—including a PowerPoint presentation, samples of the products and ideas for activities and ways to connect with women in producing countries.

Others is a ministry of hope and transformation. To learn more or to order a program kit to host an event, contact others@can.salvationarmy.org.

Major Shirley King is the co-ordinator of women’s ministries resources and the administrator of the Others program for the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

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Photos: Jan Stoerksen

G

eneral William Booth once sent a telegram to officers around the world to remind them of their calling. The telegram contained only one word—OTHERS. That single word captures the heart of The Salvation Army.

It’s also the name of the Army’s social enterprise, Others—Trade for Hope.

Others creates employment opportunities for people connected to Army community development projects and corps.

All products are handmade or include elements of craftsmanship, such as embroidery from Pakistan, handwoven scarves from Bangladesh, bead work from Kenya and linen from Moldova.

But they are more than just products.

Behind each item is a unique story of dignity, independence and hope. Every

CROSS CULTURE

IN REVIEW

ON THE WEB

Assimilate or Go Home

Faith in Canada 150: Thread of 1,000 Stories

Notes from a failed missionary on rediscovering faith

faithincanada150.ca

BY D.L. MAYFIELD From childhood, D.L. Mayfield wanted to be a missionary, so she was thrilled when the opportunity arose to work with a group of Somali Bantu refugees in her hometown of Portland, Oregon. But as time went by, her enthusiasm began to wane, her faith was challenged and the real work of learning to love and serve her neighbours became harder, deeper and more complex. “The more I failed to communicate the love of God to my refugee friends, the more I experienced it for myself,” Mayfield writes. “The more overwhelmed I felt as I became involved in the myriads of problems facing my friends who experience poverty in America, the less pressure I felt to attain success or wealth or prestige. And the more my world started to expand at the edges of my periphery, the more it became clear that life was more beautiful and more terrible than I had been told.”

Assimilate or Go Home is a collection of essays, divided into four “movements” that mimic refugees’ acclimatization process: Anticipation, Reality, Depression and Stabilization.

In this book, Mayfield invites readers to reconsider their concepts of justice and love, and gain a new understanding of the kingdom of God.

IN THE NEWS

Photo: Courtesy of Autumn Productions

Virtual Reality Brings Jesus (Back) to Life

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to experience the Sermon on the Mount first-hand? Thanks to a new virtual reality film, that may soon be possible. Jesus VR—The Story of Christ is a 90-minute virtual reality re-enactment of the New Testament, covering Jesus’ birth, death and Resurrection, as well as key events in between. The film was shot in 360-degree 4K video in Italy, and is executive produced by Enzo Sisti, who also worked on The Passion of the Christ.

“The viewers truly feel they are there with Jesus and his disciples,” says director David Hansen. “This is the most powerful story of all time and virtual reality is the perfect way to tell it.”

The film will be available on all major mobile and premium VR platforms including Google Cardboard, Samsung Gear, Oculus Rift, PlayStation VR and the HTC Vive, and is expected to be released in time for Christmas.

Tim Fellingham stars as Jesus in a new film coming this December

24 September 2016 Salvationist

Faith in Canada 150 is a project of Cardus, a Canadian think tank that focuses on Christian social thought and the common good. Ahead of Canada’s 150th anniversary next year, Cardus launched the project to celebrate faith in the country’s past, present and future. Part of this project is the Thread of 1,000 Stories initiative, which allows ordinary Canadians to share their faith. As the website notes, “It’s not to make a polemical or dogmatic or evangelizing argument. It’s to show the very existence of stories of faith in Canada proves faith is an essential part of the whole Canadian story.” Visit faithincanada150.ca/ initiatives/1000stories to read stories that have already been shared and find out how to add your own.

Canadians are invited to add their faith stories to the thread

The Babylon Bee babylonbee.com

You may have seen the headlines pop up on social media: “God Hoping Facebook Post Reaches Sufficient Number of Likes So He Can Heal Sick Child.” “Local Christian’s E-mail Signature the Entire Book of Isaiah.” “Church Unveils New Full-Body Massage Pews.”

Of course, these aren’t real headlines (though perhaps some of us wish that last one was). They come from The Babylon Bee, a satirical news site akin to The Onion. It’s run by Adam Ford who, prior to the Bee’s launch, was best known for his “curiously Christian” webcomic at Adam4d.com.

Some Christians might feel slightly uncomfortable with the idea of poking fun at the faith. But Ford believes satire can help Christians examine themselves. “Satire acts like an overhead projector, taking something that people usually ignore and projecting it up on the wall for everyone to see,” Ford told Christianity Today. “It forces us to look at things we wouldn’t normally look at and makes us ask if we’re OK with them. And sometimes it just makes us laugh. That’s all healthy stuff.”

PEOPLE & PLACES

GUELPH, ONT.—Guelph Citadel rejoices as 11 senior soldiers are enrolled. Front, from left, CSM Donna Harris, Bruce Merritt, Nathaniel Merritt, Ryan Seguin, Emma Pinson, Debra Caine, Judy Arnott and Mjr Claudette Pilgrim, CO. Back,

from left, Mjr Chris Pilgrim, CO; Nicolas Pitcher; Jennifer McGirr; Dallas Evans; Carter Jones; and Timothy Pilgrim.

GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR, N.L.—Standing under the flag held by Jason Young, colour sergeant, eight senior soldiers join the ranks at Park Street Citadel. From left, CSM Lorraine White; Mjr Larry Goudie, CO; Paul Tilley; Verdon Young; Shenaya Tulk; Margaret Roberts; Colleen Regular; Jim Mercer; Alvin Regular; Thomas Barry; and Mjr Judy Goudie, CO.

WINNIPEG—Living Hope CC enrols five senior soldiers and recognizes three adherents. Front, from left, then Cdts Alexander and Rhonda MacDonald, training leaders; Joshua MacDonald, Beverly Partaker, senior soldiers; Maureen Capuska, adherent; Fred Blackburn, colour sergeant; Sandra Capuska, Mary Giesbrecht (front), Denise Lee, senior soldiers; Jedediah and Robyn Cox, adherents, with William Cox; and Cpts Shelly and James Rands, COs.

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Bram Thorne and his grandmother, Mrs. Mjr Georgie Thorne, present $2,500 to Mjrs Brian and Valerie Wheeler, COs, in support of St. John’s Citadel’s fundraising efforts for Partners in Mission. Each year, Mrs. Mjr Thorne and her daughter engage in a friendly competition to see who can raise the most money from the sale of their knitted goods. They then add the amounts together to help finance the Army’s worldwide ministries.

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—John Pike is commissioned as the assistant corps sergeant-major at St. John’s Citadel.

With him are Mjrs Brian and Valerie Wheeler, COs, and Jonathan Pike, John’s son, holding the flag.

Salvationist September 2016 25

PEOPLE & PLACES

CHARLOTTETOWN, N.L.—Charlotte Gloria Fallon is dedicated back to the Lord by her parents, Fallon and Craig Stringer. With them is Mjr Lillian Pelley, CO, who performed the ceremony, and Charlotte’s grandparents and her big brother, Jackson.

ACTON, ONT.—On a special community care ministries Sunday at Acton CC, Eileen and Ernie Coles are recognized as they conclude 45 years of service through community care ministries. At the same time, Eileen retired from the position of community care ministries secretary following 20 years of faithful service. From left, Lilly Shewring; Gloria Vermeulen; Avis Jerritt-Benoit; Mjr Rick Pollard, CO; Gary Coles, son of Ernie and Eileen Coles, holding the flag; Ernie Coles; Eileen Coles; Mjr Drucella Pollard, CO; Noreen Wilson; and Pat Politi.

WHITBY, ONT.—Whitby CC presents Aubrey Reid and Bill Warford with pins and certificates to honour them as band reservists. From left, Mjr Warrick Pilgrim, then CO; Aubrey Reid; BM Norm Kitney; and Bill Warford.

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—As the first corps in Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John’s Temple’s 130th anniversary celebrations also commemorate the beginning of The Salvation Army’s work in the province. Marking the occasion are, front, from left, Ana Ramirez-Cruz; Stephanie Purdy; Lucy Woodland, oldest senior soldier; Maggie Lee; and Michael Hancock. Back, from left, Mjr Rene Loveless, CO; Lt-Col Jean Hefford, then DDWM, N.L. Div; Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander and leader of the anniversary festivities; Lt-Col Douglas Hefford, then DC, N.L. Div; and Mjr Wanda Loveless, CO.

RICHMOND, B.C.—Richmond Corps rejoices as six senior soldiers are enrolled.

From left, Mjrs Ed and Kathie Chiu, COs; Jane Duo; Hillary Zhao; Crystal Zhang; Lt-Cols Velma and Larry Martin, then DC and DDWM, B.C. Div; John Fisher, holding the flag; Rose Lim; Fabi Guan; Beth Ovenden; and Timothy and Greensa Chan, Chinese ministries leaders.

DILDO, N.L.– Mjrs Garry and Sandra Ward, COs, and Trinity Bay South Corps welcome Cora Smith as the young people’s sergeant-major.

26 September 2016 Salvationist

WINNIPEG—Adherents Jadesola and Felix Olowolafe present their baby, Babajide Vincent, during a traditional Nigerian naming ceremony at Southlands CC. This ceremony is an important aspect of many African cultures, symbolizing the family’s hopes and dreams for their new child. Chosen names often reflect family members, circumstances and biblical figures. Cpts Peter and Lee-Ann van Duinen, COs, participate in the occasion.

PEOPLE & PLACES

OSHAWA, ONT.—These are exciting days at Oshawa Temple as six senior soldiers are enrolled. From left, Col Lynette Rowe, CO; Julianna Gerard; Abigail Mouland; Samantha Lyons; Charlie Ball, holding the flag; Jordan Lyons; Emma Church; Stephen Leigh; Col Lindsay Rowe, CO; and RS Kevin Thompson.

WINDSOR, ONT.—The corps family at South Windsor warmly welcomes four adherents to their fellowship. From left, Mjr Scott Rideout, then CO; Bruce Dalrymple, colour sergeant; Sam Siddall; Edwin Ferguson; Brian and Lynn Ritchie; and Mjr Michelle Rideout, then CO.

MUSGRAVETOWN, N.L.—Celebrating the 120th anniversary of Islandview Citadel are, from left, Mjrs Ed and Luanne Barrow, then COs; Gordon Humby, oldest senior soldier; Leah Wells, youngest junior soldier; and Mjrs Ross and Doreen Grandy, guest leaders and former COs.

DILDO, N.L.—Joshua Newhook is the newest junior soldier at Trinity Bay South Corps. With him are, from left, CSM Glen Reid, YPSM Cora Smith and Mjrs Sandra and Garry Ward, COs.

GAMBO, N.L.—Two young people take a stand for Christ as they are enrolled at Gambo Corps. From left, Cassidy Dyke and Genessa Peckford.

WINDSOR, ONT.—South Windsor Corps celebrates as, from left, Joseph Moon, Jacob Furia and Ayden Gross-Haggert are enrolled as junior soldiers. Back, from left, Mjrs Scott and Michelle Rideout, then COs; Donna Burak, youth director; and Jody Roy, junior soldier teacher.

WINDSOR, ONT.—Two young people are enrolled as senior soldiers at South Windsor Corps. From left, Mjr Michelle Rideout, then CO; Jonathan Dalrymple; Corbyn Sutton; and Mjr Scott Rideout; then CO.

WINNIPEG—Fred Blackburn is commissioned as the colour sergeant at Living Hope CC. With him are, from left, Mjr Margaret McLeod, then AC, Prairie Div; and Cpts Shelly and James Rands, COs. Salvationist September 2016 27

PEOPLE & PLACES

TRIBUTES GRAND BANK, N.L.—Mildred Loveless was born in Grand Bank in 1931 and promoted to glory one month after her 85th birthday. She accepted Christ at the age of 15, and eventually became a teacher. Feeling led to serve the Lord as an officer, Mildred entered the training college and was commissioned in the Shepherds Session, and served as an officer-teacher until she met and married Willis Loveless.

After living in Lethbridge, N.L., they moved to Grand Bank where she taught in the Salvation Army school. Mildred influenced the lives of youth as she taught piano and was active in the corps. She served as cradle roll sergeant, home league secretary, community care ministries worker and in 2015, was recognized for 50 years of service as a songster. Mildred is lovingly remembered by her husband of 58 years, Willis; children Wayne, Ruth (Bert) Keeping, Terri Ann (Jeff) Smith; grandson, Bradley Smith; sister, Major Lily Rideout (Harold); nieces and nephews; other family and many friends.

HARE BAY, N.L.—Alfreda Fifield was born in 1928 as the eldest of nine children. In 1947, she married Randolph Fifield of Wesleyville, N.L., and was blessed with two children, Wayne and Palima. In 1966, they moved to Corner Brook, N.L., and returned to Hare Bay in 1969. She loved to laugh and share a cup of tea with those who came for a visit. Alfreda was a faithful member of the home league for more than 70 years; she was enrolled as a senior soldier of Hare Bay Corps in 1944. She loved going to church and attended faithfully until health prevented her from doing so. Alfreda was predeceased by her husband, Randolph; son, Wayne; parents Alpheaus and Keziah Collins; two sisters and four brothers. She will be remembered by her daughter, Palima (Junior) Collins; daughter-in-law, Geraldine Fifield; grandchildren Rowena (Raymond), Rochelle (Peter), Ryan (Winola) and Renee; great-grandchildren Amanda, Adrienne, Heather, Courtney, Brooklynn and Paisley; great-great-grandson, Bentley; brothers Pearce (Sarah) and Richard (Florie); sisters-in-law Charlotte, Florrie and Audrey.

GAZETTE Births: Lts Cory/Kelly Fifield, daughter, Olivia Faith, Jun 23; Lts Joshua/ Joyce Downer, daughter Trinity Ann, born Jul 3 Promoted to captain: Lts Joshua/Joyce Downer, Lt Kyla McKenzie, Lt Darren Woods, Lt Jaclyn Wynne Long service: 25 years—Mjrs Maurice/Marilyn Blackler, Mjrs Terry/Roxann Feltham, Mjr June Newbury, Mjrs Scott/Michelle Rideout; 35 years—Mjr Lorraine Abrahamse, Mjr Janice Bishop, Mjr Renée Clarke, Mjrs Stephen/ Elaine Hibbs, Mjr Barbara Pearce, Mjr Velma Preston; 40 years—Mjr Derrick Barrow, Mjr William King, Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, Mjr Roy Randell, Mjr Lorraine Shea; 45 years—Lt-Cols Douglas/Jean Hefford, Col Lynette Rowe Retirements: Mjrs Bertrand/Betty Lessard, Lt-Cols Douglas/Jean Hefford, Mjr Katherine Dickens Promoted to glory: Mjr Ralph Fudge, from St. John’s, N.L., Jun 24; Comr Elizabeth Nelson, from Winnipeg, Jun 26

CALENDAR Commissioner Susan McMillan: Sep 8 installation of Mjrs Everett/Vi Barrow as divisional leaders, Meadowlands, Hamilton, Ont. GL Div; Sep 11-14 Association of Certified Fraud Examiners Conference Canada, Montreal; Sep 15-18 cadets’ welcome weekend, CFOT; Sep 19-21 leaders’ summit, Winnipeg; Sep 23 installation of Dr. Marjory Kerr as president, Booth UC; Sep 24-26 130th anniversary, Carbonear, N.L.; Sep 28-30 NAB, Montreal; Sep 30–Oct 2 Ontario women’s retreat, JPCC Colonels Mark and Sharon Tillsley: Sep 17-18 cadets’ welcome weekend, CFOT; Sep 19-21 leaders’ summit, Winnipeg; Sep 24-25 opening of new building, Northridge CC, Newmarket, Ont.; Sep 29-30 NAB, Montreal

28 September 2016 Salvationist

KENTVILLE, N.S.—Melvin Gideon Pilgrim accepted Christ as a young boy in St. Anthony Bight, N.L. Together with his wife, Gertrude, he was a long-time soldier of St. Anthony Corps, where he enjoyed the vibrant worship that was part of the Army’s church services, as well as the leadership opportunities the Army provided. Melvin served in several local officer positions, retiring as the corps sergeant-major.

He possessed a strong faith in the Lord. He was never bashful in sharing his faith and no one doubted his strong relationship with the Lord. Melvin and Gertrude transferred to Kentville Community Church in 2008 to be closer to family where he was active until his health prevented him from attending.

Following a stroke in 2014, Melvin often stated he wanted to go home to be with the Lord; the Lord has granted his desire, and he is now delighting in the Lord’s presence. Melvin has left to mourn his wife of 58 years, Gertie; children Bernice Fox (Richard), Major Velma Preston (Captain Bill), Major Dale (Major Glenys), Kevin (Pamela) and Glen; brother, Major Warrick Pilgrim (Major Lucy); sisters Nina Tucker (Levi), Winnie Brenton (Wayne) and Edna (Harold) Kinsella; 15 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

ROBERT’S ARM, N.L.—Bramwell George Rice was born to Sydney and Emma Rice in 1929 in Pilley’s Island, N.L., as one of six children. Entering the workforce in his early teens as a cook’s helper on a fishing schooner to Labrador, Bram’s work ethic would be his trademark. For most of his life, Bram worked as a cook in logging camps, on construction sites and at sea, which he loved most of all as an opportunity to meet people and extend hospitality. He will be remembered for his love of singing, sharing stories from his travel experiences, his influence and care for all, and commitment to his family, church, community and the Lord. Serving as the corps sergeant-major at Robert’s Arm Corps for almost 15 years, Bram was an encourager, especially to young people, and a man of integrity who loved people and the Scriptures. Predeceased by his daughter, Karen, and son, Wayne, Bram is remembered by his wife of 67 years, Margaret; daughters Lt-Colonel Myra Pritchett (Wayne) and Lt-Colonel Sandra Rice; daughter-in-law, Gail Rice; sister, Marie Maye; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; a large circle of family and friends. Well done, good and faithful servant!

EDMONTON—Major Marrion Reimer Smith was born in Big Valley, Alta., in 1922, the eldest son of Oscar and Elizabeth Smith. Reimer was commissioned in 1943 in the Valiant Session and ministered in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, where he met Lillian and married in 1946. After four corps appointments in Ontario, he became chaplain at the Fort Saskatchewan Correctional Centre in 1964. Promoted to senior provincial chaplain for Alberta, he was named chaplain of the year for North America.

A member of the Order of Canada since 1987, he also received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal. Reimer was a beloved soldier of Edmonton Temple where he was a songster and played guitar. He was a member of the Lions Club.

Reimer was predeceased by his parents; wife, Lillian; brothers Lester, Leslie and Orvil; brothers-in-law Robbie and George; sisters-in-law Doreen, Dorine and Mary; and niece, Rhonda. He is survived by his wife, Joy; sons Brian and Barry (Val); daughter, Sharon (Mel); three grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; stepchildren Errick, Derrick, Teri, Sarah and Julie; brothers Melvin (Winona), Leonard (Louise), Lee (Bernice) and Dennis (Olga); sisters Viola, Lona (Harvey), Loretta and Bonnie (Brent); many nieces and nephews.

Guidelines for Tributes

Tributes should be received within two months of the promotion to glory and include: community where the person resided; conversion to Christ; corps involvement; Christian ministry; survivors. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. High-resolution digital photos (300 ppi preferred) or clear, original photos are acceptable (original photos will be returned).

E-mail: salvationist@can.salvationarmy.org.

Celebrating 130 Years October 15-16, 2016

Touch the Past— Embrace the Future With Majors Lloyd and Marlene George Saturday, October 15 5 p.m. Anniversary Banquet 7 p.m. “Touching the Past” Celebration Sunday, October 16 10:30 a.m. “Embracing the Future” Worship Service 4 Mary St. East, Huntsville ON P1H 1W4 Phone: (705) 789-3398 Visit us on Facebook: The Salvation Army Huntsville E-mail: huntsvillesa@cogeco.net

Newfoundland and Labrador

Come to one of our

Editorial Workshops

(Includes tips on writing, photography and web design)

Friday, October 28

The Salvation Army, Corner Brook Citadel 36 Clarence St. Time: 6–9 p.m.

Saturday, October 29

The Salvation Army, St. John's Citadel 25 Adams Ave. Time: 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Photo: © Massonstock/iStock.com

THE SALVATION ARMY Huntsville Corps

Calling all aspiring writers in

Presenters: Lt-Colonel Jim Champ

Territorial Secretary for Communications

Geoff Moulton Editor-in-Chief and Literary Secretary

Cost: $10

Includes supper (Corner Brook) or lunch (St. John's)

RSVP to the Editorial Dept. at 416-422-6119 or salvationist@can.salvationarmy.org

sPEak ut give hope!

Annual Day of prayer for

vIctIms of human-traffIckIng Sunday 25 September 2016

To purchase your copy, visit store.salvationarmy.ca, e-mail orderdesk@can.salvationarmy.org or phone 416-422-6110 today!

For the e-book, visit amazon.ca.

Salvationist September 2016 29

SALVATION STORIES

Fight for What’s Right Photo: Timothy Cheng

How God restored me so I could advocate for others.

BY BRENDA WOOTTEN

M

y journey of change began on November 16, 1993, the day I was offered a position at the Maxwell Meighen Centre, a Salvation Army hostel in downtown Toronto.

After going through a divorce, a health crisis and depression, I was bitter, hurt and angry. My heart was hard toward God. But as I started attending daily devotions at Maxwell Meighen, I experienced his love and forgiveness through the music and teaching. God used those 30 minutes a day to restore my faith.

He also placed so many wonderful people in my life who loved me unconditionally. Major Maude Hetherington took me under her wing and helped me deal with some of the areas that were hindering my spiritual growth. We laughed, cried and prayed together.

Working with homeless people helped me learn to put my life in perspective, to be thankful. When I looked back at the difficult times in my life, I began to see all the ways God had cared for me.

As my walk with Jesus became stronger, I realized this was no longer a job, but a ministry. After 10 years at Maxwell Meighen, I became the assistant director at the Gateway shelter. The coaching and mentoring I received there equipped me to be an advocate for the most vulnerable and forgotten in our society. God taught me to understand and not judge the journey of others.

Later I worked as the director at 30 September 2016 Salvationist

“The mission of The Salvation Army is embedded in my heart and soul,” says Brenda Wootten

Coming face to face with poverty, corruption and violence, my walk with Jesus took on a whole new meaning.

Florence Booth House, where the women I was called to serve were a transforming influence on me. When I heard the life story of the people God placed in my life—the hardships, sacrifices, how the people who were supposed to love and protect them as children let them down—God gave me the passion and drive to stand up and fight for what is right. We did workshops, spoke at women’s groups and became involved with committees fighting for justice.

While I was at Florence Booth House, I went on a mission trip to Tijuana, Mexico, as part of a group from territorial headquarters. We went to visit a Salvation Army project supported by the women’s ministries department, a daycare in an area where many families worked in factories. Childcare was hard

to come by. Children were disappearing.

We worked with the corps officers and learned about human trafficking.

One day, two little boys dressed in school uniforms came around what I thought was a heap of tires and a few bricks—only to discover it was their home. This was a moment in time when God melted my heart and taught me, through my tears, to love through him and for him. Coming face to face with poverty, corruption and violence, my walk with Jesus took on a whole new meaning. It was no longer about how people saw me, but how they saw Jesus through me.

One October afternoon, I realized there was not much more I had to offer Florence Booth House. I knew this part of my journey was coming to a close and that God was preparing me for the next chapter. Within four months, God appointed me to a new role in human resources.

Today, as the director of employee relations for Toronto Housing and Homeless Supports, I have the amazing opportunity to care for the caregivers, our employees. Every position I have held over the last 23 years was a building block for this ministry.

The mission of The Salvation Army is embedded in my heart and soul.

Brenda Wootten is the director of employee relations for The Salvation Army’s Toronto Housing and Homeless Supports.

NOT JUST HIGHER EDUCATION. A HIGHER CALLING. EDUCATION FOR A BETTER WORLD

boothuc.ca

n a c y a d s d l ’ i h c a Fuelling last a

! e m i t e f i L

Helping children achieve greatness

Visit saworldmissions.ca to find out how you can provide basic needs to the most vulnerable children of our world.

For address changes or subscription information contact (416) 422-6119 or circulation@can.salvationarmy.org. Allow 4-6 weeks for changes. PM 40064794 7/14/2016

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