Salvationist - November 2016 by The Salvation Army

Messengers of the Gospel Welcomed in Winnipeg

Growing Food and a Future in Malawi

The Problem with Pot: A Salvationistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s View

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

November 2016

Warehouse Mission Band The men and meaning behind the music

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SOCIAL JUSTICE ISN'T A CLASS. ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A CALLING. EDUCATION FOR A BETTER WORLD

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CONTENTS

Salvationist November 2016 • Volume 11, Number 11

Departments

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5 Frontlines

Visit salvationist.ca to add your comments and read web-exclusive articles

16 Spiritual Life Diamond in the Rough by Major Toni Cartmell

@salvationistmagazine Follow us on Instagram for the latest and best Army photos. Tag your photos #salvationistsofig

19 Fresh Ideas Good Points by Kim Duquette

24 Cross Culture 25 People & Places 30 Salvation Stories The Long Way Home by Patricia Dupras

Columns 4 Editorial God Gave Rock ’n’ Roll to You by Geoff Moulton

15 Chief Priorities Fond Farewell by Colonel Mark Tillsley

22 #Trending Beyond Left and Right by Captain Mark Braye

23 Herstory The Peaceable Kingdom by Lieutenant Kristen Jackson-Dockeray

29 Troublesome Texts The Deity of Christ by General Bramwell H. Tillsley (Rtd)

Features 8 Messengers of the Gospel Welcomed New session of cadets begins officer training in Winnipeg. by Geoff Moulton

10 Olympic Hopefuls Canadian Salvationists share the gospel in Rio de Janeiro during Summer Games. by Kristin Ostensen

12 The Song Remains the Same

/salvationistmagazine Like us on Facebook for photos and updates. Interact with our community of 30,000 fans @Salvationist Follow us on Twitter for the Army’s breaking news. Use hashtag #SalvationArmy for your own updates and photos Cover photo: Timothy Cheng

Toronto’s Warehouse Mission Band isn’t just preaching to the choir. by Ken Ramstead

Read and share it!

17 Live It Out

Faith&Friends

Holding together word and deed: the strategic priority of integrated mission. by Lt-Colonel Debbie Graves

Thrift-Store Shopper

MAKES WAVES P.8

Helping a Mom

KELLI’S HEROES P.12

New Scorcese Movie

SILENCE P.22

I N S P I R AT I O N F O R L I V I N G

faithandfriends.ca

NOVEMBER 2016

18 Foundations for Farming The Salvation Army promotes conservation agriculture in Malawi. by Bayardo Gonzalez

20 Blunt Talk Canada’s marijuana laws are going to change. What does that mean for Salvationists? by James Read

From War to Peace

MICHAEL AND WENDY SZCZURKO’S STORY OF HEALING P.16 faithandfriends.ca I NOVEMBER 2016 • 1

Salvationist November 2016 3

EDITORIAL

God Gave Rock ’n’ Roll to You

hy should the devil have all the good tunes?” Many believe it was William Booth who uttered these words, though they have also been attributed to Anglican preacher George Whitefield and John Wesley. In any case, it was Booth and his Army that took many of the barroom songs of 19th-century England and put Christian lyrics to them. The goal was honest: to evoke an emotional identification with the music, but to change the message to focus on the good news of Christ. Of course, the question wrongly implies that Christians did not have “good” music before, or that only “popular” music is good. But it does help break down our assumptions about what is acceptable in the church. It demonstrates that the divide between sacred and secular is, in many cases, a human construction. Booth wanted to use all of the tools at his disposal to win people to the gospel. He believed that Christians could adopt any style of music and use it to glorify God. This is certainly true of the Warehouse Mission Band, a rock ’n’ roll trio that was formed in 2003 in the Cabbagetown area of Toronto (page 12). Guitarist Captain Ron Farr notes that their goal is the same as Booth’s: “For people who have lived on the margins all their lives, the music that we play speaks 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 November 2016 Salvationist

to them and tells their story about the inner pain in their lives, and how God has brought them to victory.” The music is raw and gritty, but it reflects the hardscrabble life of the streets.

Let’s use the gift of music to share the message of Christ. I was in a rock band myself for about five minutes. I can remember Friday nights as a teen, hanging out with friends in the basement of the old College for Officer Training in Toronto. We would hack around on guitars and keyboards, and occasionally something tuneful would emerge. We played our one and only concert at the Labrador City/ Wabush Corps, N.L., on a youth band trip. Sadly, we were never “discovered,” but it remains a fond memory of how music kept me connected to the life of the church. If you’re not convinced, just look at our Territorial Music School report (page 7) to see how this program, and the new Leadership Development Institute, are encouraging the musical and spiritual growth of Army youth. We are blessed by groups such as the

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.

Canadian Staff Band, and this month the Canadian Staff Songsters will be commissioned. Our music and gospel arts department at territorial headquarters, as well as divisional and local music directors, are a huge resource to the mission and ministry of the Army. The Christian rock band Petra once sang, “God gave rock ’n’ roll to you. Put it in the soul of everyone.” Whatever our musical tastes, let’s use the gift of music to share the message of Christ with a world that desperately needs his love. GEOFF MOULTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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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

Salvation Army Expands in Kelowna

he Salvation Army opened a new Community Life Centre in Kelowna, B.C., in August. Located on the community’s west side, the centre will make it easier for people to receive support. Before the centre opened, residents of West Kelowna had to travel half a day by bus to get help from The Salvation Army. This created a significant barrier and an added stress for many looking to access Army services. “Last year, the number of people coming to us for help doubled,” says Pam Grimm, communications co-ordinator. “We are serving more working families—people who can’t afford rent, food and clothes for their children—who have never had to do this before.” The new centre will also allow The Salvation Army to work closely with First Nations communities and support services in the area, creating a more collaborative approach to helping people in their time of need.

U.K. Commissioners Visit Quebec City

alvationists in Quebec City welcomed Commissioners Clive and Marianne Adams, territorial leaders, United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland, in August for a special worship service at Église communautaire de Québec, the local Salvation Army corps. Commissioners Adams were supported by Colonels Mark and Sharon Tillsley, chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries, and Lieutenant Yves Bolduc, corps officer, and Lieutenant Vivian Mag-aso, community and family services officer. The opening song, Come and Celebrate (Venez et Célébrez), set the tone for the evening. The corps has much to celebrate as the congregation has grown from six to 60 in the last year. Commissioner Clive Adams spoke about God’s kingdom come, with translation by Major David Carey, executive director, The Salvation Army Ministries—Quebec City. New soldiers Jean Mbaitoloum and his wife, Anne, sang Amazing Grace in both French and Chadian Arabic. After Louis-Phillippe Allard, corps sergeant-major, pronounced the benediction, the fellowship continued. “Everyone was fed in body, mind and spirit and God was glorified,” says Major Grant Effer, divisional commander, Quebec Division.

Comr Clive Adams addresses the congregation

Lt Darryl Burry, CO, Kelowna CC, welcomes visitors to the new Community Life Centre

St. Albert Marks 30 Years

he Salvation Army in St. Albert, Alta., celebrated three decades of service and ministry in August with a community pancake breakfast and a barbecue. This event also marked the end of a successful Soul Sportz program, a summer day camp for children. “It was a multi-purpose event, celebrating the blessings of sustained ministry and our work with children and youth, as well as a call to worship as we returned to regular fall programming,” says Major Terry Cook, corps officer. The corps, which started in the basement of one of the founding families,

meets spiritual and practical needs as a worshipping community with a variety

of community and family services for children and adults.

“We are pleased to be celebrating 30 years of Salvation Army ministry in St. Albert and the surrounding area,” says Mjr Terry Cook. The corps family in St. Albert held a barbecue to mark the occasion

Salvationist November 2016 5

FRONTLINES

Maritime and Bermuda Divisions Form Joint Mission Team

ix Salvationists from the Maritime Division travelled to Bermuda in August, where they joined a team of six Bermudian Salvationists for 12 days of service and ministry. “It was an experience that opened our eyes to the awesome work of The Salvation Army in this part of our territory,” says Captain Morgan Hillier. Captains Morgan and Lisa Hillier, divisional youth secretaries, Maritime Division, led the combined team with Majors Curtis and Cindy Butler, divisional youth secretary and divisional

children’s ministries secretary, Bermuda Division. The mission team led a “Cave Quest” vacation Bible school at Warwick’s Cedar Hill Corps, which drew more than 30 children. They also conducted devotions and Bible studies at the Army’s Harbour Light in Hamilton, the emergency shelter and seniors’ home. On Sundays, they led worship, gave testimonies and preached during services. Community outreach ministry included participating in feeding programs, cleaning, filling grocery bags at the food banks, and organizing

The combined mission team led a vacation Bible school

a youth bash at Horseshoe Bay Beach. “Our goal was to provide different opportunities for our young leaders to grow in their leadership skills, to stretch them and push them out of their comfort zones,” states Captain Lisa Hillier. Captain Morgan Hillier adds that the experience was an encouragement for all involved. “It reminded us once again of the value of investing time and energy into young leaders.”

Cpt Lisa Hillier makes a new friend at Cedar Hill Corps

Medicine Hat Resource Centre Moves to New Space

esidents of Medicine Hat, Alta., will have better access to Salvation Army programs and services with the opening of a larger Community Resource Centre. The Army celebrated the centre’s move into a new and expanded space with an opening event in August. The new location will allow more room for programs and extended operating hours. “People can drop by for a cup of coffee, access our family services and stay for a hot supper if they need one,” says Ian Scott, director of the resource centre. “There’s lots of community interest in what new programs we might be able to offer in the new space and we’re excited to see what evolves.” The August event was originally planned to raise awareness amongst other Medicine Hat agencies and city officials but became an unofficial grand opening as word spread quickly through the community. More than 300 people stopped by to check out the new centre. The Salvation Army’s community response unit was on hand to serve hot dogs and hamburgers, and the day included live music, an appearance by Sally Ann and visits from several members of public office. 6 November 2016 Salvationist

More than 300 people visited the Army’s new centre in Medicine Hat at its grand opening

The solo cornets of the Craig Lewis Band in rehearsal

A Legacy of Music Territorial Music School encourages musical and spiritual development. BY MAJOR WANDA VINCENT

oung Salvationists sharpened their musical skills and deepened their faith this summer at the annual Territorial Music School (TMS), held at Jackson’s Point Camp in Ontario. Participants included 93 students and 42 faculty, hailing from all nine of Canada and Bermuda’s divisions, as well as England, France, Spain, Mexico, Argentina and Malawi. Guests for the week-long camp were Andrew Blyth of Peterborough Citadel, United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland, who led the brass band group, and Chris Stoker, spiritual formation director, U.S.A. Eastern Territory, who taught the Bible program. The TMS offered three streams— brass band, vocal and worship team—as well as a range of electives including creative prayer, Salvationism for today, and arranging and composing music. The Leadership Development Institute (LDI), a parallel program running alongside the TMS, also made its debut this year. Led by John Lam Emily Gaus, Mitchell Caissie and Alison Brown lead worship at the final festival

and Cathie Koehnen, the LDI aimed to encourage and equip musical leaders. Participants in the LDI learned how to choose appropriate music for local corps settings, be proactive with recruitment and resolve conflicts while building community. “The greatest lesson for spiritual leaders is putting Christ first in their lives and living that out for

the people you lead,” says David Mills, bandmaster at Caribou Hill Temple, Burnaby, B.C. During the Bible program, Stoker drew on the story of Abraham to speak about obedience to God. “I was inspired by the challenge to not settle for anything less than God in my life,” says Hayley Hillier, from the Maritime Division. “My faith is always renewed by the spiritual encouragement I receive from my friends,” says Cassie Barrett, a returning TMS student from the Ontario Great Lakes Division. On the final day of camp, family and friends gathered to hear remarkable performances as the students shared their improved musical skills during the concluding program at Toronto’s Scarborough Citadel. Worship teams engaged the congregation with energy as everyone sang My Redeemer Lives. The women’s chorus reminded listeners that God’s eye is on the sparrow, and the band led by Craig Lewis, territorial secretary for music and gospel arts, played Luminaries as a challenge to let our light shine for Christ. The program also featured video clips that reflected the camp’s multicultural participation and the impact of the LDI. In his devotional comments, Stoker invited the campers to follow God’s plan and let that plan expand as they leave camp and live out their faith. The program’s finale surprised and stirred all present as Blyth led the A Band in A Legacy of Music with a visual tribute to musical and spiritual leaders who have mentored so many through the years.

Photos: Dave Wilson

FRONTLINES

From left, Commissioner Susan McMillan takes the salute from two Messengers of the Gospel, Cdts Gina and David Haggett, and their daughter, Cdt Lisa Cole, who is a member of the Joyful Intercessors Session

Messengers of the Gospel

Welcomed

New session of cadets begins officer training in Winnipeg.

8 November 2016 Salvationist

the enthusiastic applause of Salvationist supporters. Over the next two years, the officers-in-training—including one cadet from the Germany, Poland and Lithuania Territory and one new auxiliary-captain—will join the Joyful Intercessors Session (2015-2017) at the CFOT for courses in theology, Salvation Army ecclesiology and practical ministry. Supported by Winnipeg’s Heritage Park Temple Band, Colonel Mark Tillsley, chief secretary, opened the service with

an energetic worship song, Sing to God, and Colonel Sharon Tillsley, territorial secretary for women’s ministries, prayed a prayer of blessing over the cadets. Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander, greeted the cadets, saying, “We never expect where God will take us. But when we put our hand in his, it is the beginning of an incredible adventure.” The CFOT worship team engaged the congregation with a rousing set of

Photos: Carson Samson

ould you do service for Jesus your king?” challenged Major David Allen, principal of the College for Officer Training (CFOT), to those who had gathered for the welcome service of the Messengers of the Gospel Session (2016-2018). “The lives of the cadets on this platform are being offered in service today.” Sixteen new cadets marched into Elim Chapel in Winnipeg on September 18 to

BY GEOFF MOULTON

choruses, including We Have a Gospel that Matches the Hour. In the midst of the singing, cadets joined in a dramatic reading entitled “This is the Gospel,” brandishing Bibles and promising to take God’s message of peace, hope and joy to the world. In presenting the cadets to the crowd, Major Allen remarked on their sense of optimism and exhorted them, “You are entering the CFOT as Christian disciples to align your heart, mind and will with God’s.” In response, the cadet chorus delivered their upbeat sessional song, composed by Major Leonard Ballantine, with the lyrics “Don’t be ashamed of the gospel, God’s Word is true.’” Commissioner McMillan then dedicated the Messengers of the Gospel and their sessional flag, noting its symbolism of God’s purity, Jesus’ blood and the fire of the Holy Spirit. “When we march under the flag, we march under the gospel,” she observed. A time of offering also included prayer cards with photos of the cadets, distributed by Major Brenda Allen, director of spiritual formation, to encourage those present to lift up the cadets regularly in prayer. I n her de vot ion a l me s s a ge , Commissioner McMillan reflected on how the message of Malachi 3 was both good news and bad news to its original recipients. Bad news because Judah had given God second best and fallen short of their covenant with him; good news because, as John the Baptist would later confirm, a Messiah was coming. “The good news of the gospel,” Commissioner

“The good news of the gospel is that there is always hope for those who seek his face.” —Commissioner Susan McMillan McMillan said, “is that there is always hope for those who seek his face.” After a time of prayer and reflection, Major Shawn Critch, divisional commander, Prairie Division, pronounced the benediction and the congregation was sent back into the mission field to the strains of On We March with the Blood and the Fire. Earlier in the day, the cadets and their families gathered for a private morning worship service, led by Commissioner McMillan, where they shared testimonies, prayed together and dedicated themselves to training. The welcome meeting was followed by a three-day Territorial Leaders’ Summit that united territorial and divisional leaders for sessions on leadership and strategic direction. Below: Cadets and staff from the CFOT with the territorial leaders from the Canada and Bermuda Tty

Cdt Kaitlyn Young holds the sessional flag for the Messengers of the Gospel as it is dedicated by Commissioner Susan McMillan

Mjr Brenda Allen encourages the congregation to accept prayer cards with photos of the cadets as a reminder to pray for them regularly

Mission team members from Canada and Denmark, and ministry team members from Niterói Corps, connect with local children

his August, thousands of athletes descended on Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as the South American city hosted the Summer Olympic Games. But while the world was watching the events occurring in stadiums around the city, at The Salvation Army, a different kind of Olympics was taking place. Using sports as a medium for ministry, Salvationists from 10 countries, including Canada, went to Rio, teaming up with 29 locals for three weeks of community outreach. “The focus of the Rio program was to impact the local neighbourhood with the gospel and make disciples for Christ using the tools of sport and play,” explains Lt-Colonel David Bowles, sports ministry co-ordinator for Europe. “Our goals were to connect with people living around the corps, build relationships and keep those relationships growing after the mission teams left Rio de Janeiro.” A Canadian team comprised of Maria Raudales and Jorge Vargas of Montreal Citadel, and Lieutenants Juan Chirinos and Indira Albert, corps officers, Église communautaire de l’Outaouais in Gatineau, Que., participated in the 10 November 2016 Salvationist

Olympic Canadian Salvationists share the gospel in Rio de Janeiro during Summer Games. BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN first block of ministry, serving in Rio from August 3 to 13. Joanne Poupard of Whitby Community Church, Ont., joined the Rio team from August 13 to 23. The first team was stationed at the Niterói and São Gonçalo corps, where they led Olympic-themed crafts and sports activities for local children and shared the gospel message. As schools were closed for the duration of the Games, the children were free to participate in the Army’s programs. At the Niterói Corps, which has an existing sports ministry for kids, the program was held in a nearby favela (slum).

“Every day, we had around 50 kids,” says Lieutenant Albert. One child she met was amazed that they would come all the way to Brazil to lead this program. “He asked me if I was going to watch any of the Games, and I said, ‘No, I’m just here to make the Olympics for you.’ He was so happy, he looked into my eyes and said, ‘It’s a pleasure to meet you. I can’t thank you enough for being here.’ ” After this, Lieutenant Albert shared the gospel with him and he accepted Christ. Lieutenant Chirinos had a similar experience witnessing to four boys in Niterói. While talking with them about

why they loved soccer, “I told them that it was God who created sport so we can enjoy life, and that God wants to bring happiness into our life.” When he asked them if they wanted that happiness from God in their own lives, they said yes and Lieutenant Chirinos prayed with them. “I asked them if they wanted to have Christ in their heart, and they received him as their Saviour that day.” At the São Gonçalo Corps, where the Army’s ministry to children is less established, team members paraded through the streets with drums, musical instruments and flags to invite kids to the corps’ mini Olympics. “Seeing the corps full of kids the next day and playing with them was a personal blessing,” says Lieutenant Chirinos. “Bringing the Olympics to these kids was such an important thing,” he continues, “because they could see that the Olympics were happening, but it was just for exclusive people, not for them. With this ministry, we brought the Olympics to their neighbourhood.” In addition to the ministry to children, team members took part in the Niterói Corps’ Open Door Project, a pro-

Brazilian children at the Méier Education Centre show mission team members how to play their national game

gram for women on the street. “Every Friday night, the women can go in and have something warm to eat, and take part in a workshop,” explains Lieutenant Albert. “The project empowers these women by teaching them a new skill, like sewing. It’s giving them hope that there is something else they can do—they don’t have to work the streets.” The team also went out at night to give out blankets and warm clothes to people in need. “We met one woman who was screaming because she was so cold,” recalls Lieutenant Albert. The

woman had only a thin blanket, so the team gave her a new one, but when she wouldn’t stop shivering, they decided to call an ambulance. “It took a while for the ambulance to arrive, so we stayed and prayed with her.” Though the Rio team wrapped up its ministry as the Games came to a close, Lieutenant Albert is confident that the team’s presence will have a long-term impact. “Through this sports ministry, kids gave their hearts to Christ,” she says. “That’s an eternal legacy.”

Hopefuls

Lt Juan Chirinos prays with a group of boys

Joanne Poupard gets to know some of the girls from the Méier neighbourhood

Salvationist November 2016 11

The Warehouse Mission Band, from left, Gregory Huber, Krys Val and Cpt Ron Farr

The Song Remains the Same Toronto’s Warehouse Mission Band isn’t just preaching to the choir.

12 November 2016 Salvationist

But what we have to keep in mind is that we need to continue along with that person in their spiritual life. We didn’t pull that person out of that shipwreck just to watch him or her drown. We’re going to help. We’re going along for the ride. That’s what The Salvation Army is all about and that’s what the Warehouse Mission Band is all about, too.”

“Can You Play?” The Warehouse Mission Band, a trio consisting of retired Captain Ron Farr, Gregory Huber and Krys Val, was formed in 2003 in the Cabbagetown area of Toronto. The band took its name from the Warehouse Mission, a Salvation Army ministry to Toronto’s marginalized and forgotten, where Captain Farr served as corps officer.

Photos: Timothy Cheng

e have a song on one of our CDs entitled I Didn’t Save You From the Shipwreck Just to Watch You Drown,” says Captain Ron Farr of the Warehouse Mission Band. “It’s really what we’re about. “As Christians,” he explains, “we often talk about rescuing someone from the sea of sin, addiction or vice.

BY KEN RAMSTEAD

When the band got together, Captain Farr was the chaplain of the Gateway, a Salvation Army men’s shelter in Toronto. “Music was an important part of that outreach,” he explains. “Part of the philosophy I used in chaplaincy there was if anyone wanted to come and play on a Sunday, they could do so, and play anything from Hank Williams to Twisted Sister. Some people were great musicians while others could barely play the radio, but that didn’t matter.” One night during the chapel service, Captain Farr asked, “Would anyone like to come up and play?” Krys Val, an English musician on tour with Skarecrow, a Maritime band, happened to be at the Gateway that evening and responded, “Well, could I play a song?” Captain Farr turned to Val and asked, “Can you play?” “Well, a little bit,” he replied. “Krys then proceeded with a brilliant rendition of Walk Hand in Hand with Me that blew everybody away,” Captain Farr smiles, “and we’ve been playing together ever since.” As for Gregory Huber, a Cabbagetown resident, he wandered into the

Warehouse Mission for a free breakfast one Saturday morning and never left. “I wasn’t in the best of shape at that time, physically, emotionally and spiritually,” Huber explains. “But everyone in Cabbagetown knows of The Salvation Army and the good work they do, so word of mouth led me to Ron’s free meals, and I stayed to listen to Ron’s free sermons. I was hooked. But he and Krys also had a vibrant music ministry, and I hoped that I could be part of that.” A guitarist since he was 14—“Music’s been the only constant in my life”— Huber participated in one of the weekly jazz sessions and soon became part of the band. “We just sort of clicked and everything fell together.” One Direction While the band has played at territorial headquarters, the Jackson’s Point Conference Centre and Salvation Army corps all around the Greater Toronto Area, the band’s focus is very much on the residents of Cabbagetown, an innercity neighbourhood. They’ve never left their roots.

“Everyone in Cabbagetown knows of The Salvation Army and the good work they do.” —Gregory Huber

“For people who have lived on the margins all their lives,” Captain Farr says, “the music that we play speaks to them and tells their story about the inner pain in their

lives, and how God has brought them to victory.” Val often uses sermons as starting points, and builds songs and music around them. For example, Christophobe, which talks about how so many people seem to desire social justice yet do not want judgment or justice in their lives, was based on a sermon Captain Farr had preached. “We’ve tried to build songs that express and reflect the transformation of the Cabbagetown community, but also speak to the fact that there are bigger global issues beyond our local community that they’re also concerned about, such as human trafficking,” says Captain Farr. “People who are struggling on the margins with local issues also understand there are global social justice issues that they need to be equally concerned about.” As well, the band uses portions of the Bible in their songs, such as the Psalms or the Book of Revelation, to extend the reach of the printed page. Besides the gospel, the band references Salvation Army history in their songs to inform and educate. “We have people who struggle with problems every day of their lives,” says Val, “who might not remember who the prime minister of Canada is, but if you ask them, they know all about the Blind Beggar Pub, when and where The Salvation Army was founded, and by who!” “There’s a constant purpose to our music,” adds Captain Farr. “We want to share our faith but we don’t want to necessarily share it with church folk. The music that we’re writing can be heard by anyone in the world, but we don’t want them to feel like they were listening to hymns or Hillsong. They can listen to our songs and enjoy them, yet still get the gospel message. That’s always been what we’ve tried to do, even in the songs that we sing on Sunday. They’ll be quite contemporary for the local community— toe-tapping kind of music that people will sing along to and remember—but will have a Christian message: not only that Jesus died for us, but also that he calls us to live holy lives and to make a difference in the world. And I think we’ve been successful in sharing that common vision. “We want to involve people, not only who are in the church already but those Salvationist November 2016 13

who are searching, and hopefully we’ll help show them the direction they need to go in to find Christ.” A Helping Hand One man who attended a Warehouse Mission Band concert was so taken with the music he heard that he purchased the group’s CDs, took them home and gave them to his son, who was struggling with addiction. After listening to the CDs, the son decided to go into rehab the following day. He entered The Salvation A rmy ’s Hope Acres program and is still in recovery. “We don’t preach to

“If you have a bunch of hooligans like us on the CD’s cover … perhaps it’ll give a person strength.” —Krys Val

the choir,” says Captain Farr. “People already in churches have a plethora of music they can listen to, incredible gospel groups out there such as Hillsong, not to mention Salvation Army brass bands—simply marvelous, inspiring music. “But there are people on the periphery who want to change their lives. Maybe they’re living in a house where people are shooting up. If you leave some kind of a gospel CD lying around, it’ll get junked pretty quickly.” “However, if you have a bunch of hooligans like us on the CD’s cover,” Val smiles, “the CD blends in to the surroundings and there’s more of a chance that they’ll give a listen. Perhaps it’ll give a person the strength to make the decision to get to a place he or she needs to be. “So we’re trying to reach those people who are on the edge and give them a helping hand so they can get over to the other side. For us, that part of our song has always remained the same. That’s where our music is and that’s what we will continue to do.”

“We want to involve people, not only who are in the church already but those who are searching.” The Warehouse Band Trilogy The three CDs chronicle the struggle, emergence and acceptance of The Salvation Army in Cabbagetown: Backstreet Showdown highlights The Salvation Army’s emergence from the back street to become part of the main street of the community. Exit Road speaks to the fact that we all need to be prepared for eternity. Laneway Echoes addresses the changing face of Cabbagetown, yet shows how the echoes of love and truth have created a ripple effect in the community that still lives on.

14 November 2016 Salvationist

—Captain Ron Farr

CHIEF PRIORITIES

Fond Farewell Looking back in gratitude and ahead with confidence. BY COLONEL MARK TILLSLEY

Colonels Mark and Sharon Tillsley

ow lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” This quote from the movie Annie describes my thoughts and feelings as I approach the end of my appointment in the Canada and Bermuda Territory, although I would use the word blessed rather than lucky. During these three-and-a-half years, my wife, Sharon, and I have felt God’s blessing on our lives and ministry, and saying goodbye is difficult. In Acts 20:13-38, the Apostle Paul says goodbye to the Ephesian elders after spending three years among them. Although many of the circumstances Paul faced were different than anything we have experienced or will ever experience, there are also some striking similarities. In the same way the Ephesians didn’t know Paul before he came to their region, you didn’t know us. We are so grateful that you quickly opened your hearts and lives to us. It was a gift we will never forget. Because you were vulnerable, you gave us the courage to be vulnerable and transparent in ministry. We trusted God’s leading through you and he has

been faithful. Those who worked with us closely know our limitations and flaws, so thank you for investing in our growth and development. We have had tremendous leaders and trusted colleagues who modelled great kindness and patience, both fruits of the Spirit. One of the great joys of this appointment was to travel across the territory. We have good reason to be hopeful and optimistic because of all that God is doing in our midst. A powerful awakening is taking place among our young people—young adult retreats, Time to Be Holy weekends, Territorial Music School and many other youth gatherings have encouraged us that God is doing something amazing in this generation. Let’s do everything we can to encourage our youth. There are also great stories to be told of God at work in our corps and social services centres. We have celebrated corps anniversaries where God’s people have been faithfully reaching out to their communities for 135 years, and we have been to corps made up almost entirely of new Canadians, who are also new to the Army—and sometimes to

Christian faith. We have enjoyed corps meetings that concluded with a glorious postlude from the band, and ones that concluded with a taekwondo demonstration. We have visited centres where men and women have been set free from addiction and are now finding new life in Jesus Christ. We have witnessed God bringing healing to our land, reconciling and restoring our relationships with one another. The honour and privilege of participating in the Indigenous leaders’ roundtables reminded me that we are called to be peacemakers, not just peace lovers. The Salvation Army in this territory has an opportunity to seek forgiveness, listen respectfully and then work alongside our First Nations brothers and sisters. We will treasure memories of many events where God moved powerfully as we called out to him. Someone recently said, “I think you have reconnected with your roots, coming back to Canada after all these years.” The truth is that Sharon and I have a deep love for this territory. We love the beauty and variety of the various cultures and places, but most importantly, we love the people—whom we now call our brothers and sisters. What we have experienced in Canada and Bermuda bodes well for the next part of our journey. God has been faithful and generous and we believe he will continue to be. Compelled by the Spirit, and believing that God still moves and leads through the appointment process, we now head to the Caribbean and the 16 countries that make up this incredible territory. While we don’t know what awaits us there, God has assured us that a wonderful group of Spirit-filled Salvationists will enfold us into their fellowship of love and friendship. It will be hard to say goodbye to family and friends here, but it will be wonderful to say hello to the new family and friends that God has planned for our future. My closing prayer for you is this: “Now I’m turning you over to God, our marvelous God whose gracious Word can make you into what he wants you to be and give you everything you could possibly need in this community of holy friends” (Acts 20:32 The Message). Colonel Mark Tillsley is the chief secretary for the Canada and Bermuda Territory. He and his wife, Colonel Sharon Tillsley, will take up a new appointment as territorial leaders of the Caribbean Territory in January 2017. Salvationist November 2016 15

SPIRITUAL LIFE

Diamond in the Rough The spiritual discipline of confession lets God’s light shine through.

love the dance of light as it is refracted into a rainbow of colour through a diamond. Uncut diamonds don’t have the same effect; diamonds must be cut to sparkle. This is how I think of confession—like a wellcut diamond, allowing light to shine through, creating life and beauty. Perhaps that image surprises you, especially if you have thought of confession as being solely about sin. But it’s more than that. The Greek word “confess” simply means “to agree with God.” We are to agree with God in everything: who he is, his worth, his love for us. The New Testament Greek Lexicon opens up the multi-faceted dimensions of confession: •• to agree, admit or declare one’s self guilty of what one is accused of. •• to profess, worship, praise and celebrate with love, awe, adoration and gratitude for another. •• to declare openly, speak out freely that Jesus is Lord. We are commanded to practise confession in Scripture: “When anyone becomes aware that they are guilty in any of these matters, they must confess in what way they have sinned” (Leviticus 5:5); “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy” (Proverbs 28:13); “I will declare your name to my people; in the assembly I will praise you” (Psalm 22:22). This movement of honesty and personal and corporate godliness was essential to the growth of Christianity. 16 November 2016 Salvationist

The first-century church stood in front of the whole assembly of worshippers to confess their sins. In the mid-400s, Pope Leo I decided that the reputation of those confessing needed to be guarded, and instituted a way it could be done in privacy with a spiritual leader. In The Salvation Army, we have used the mercy seat as a place of confession. The act of moving forward at the invitation of the leader and the Holy Spirit is an act of confession. Some have said they are hesitant to go forward because others may think they have sinned. But the altar isn’t just for sinners wanting to repent—it is a place of testimony. In the same way we declare our allegiance to the King of Kings when we raise our hands in worship, dance or testify to what he has done, the mercy seat bears witness to our hearts being moved by God and our desire to follow Jesus. Confession in its fullest expression brings health and healing to us as individuals. Through confession: •• we become reoriented to who we are and who God is. •• we gain self-knowledge. •• our conscience sees clearly. •• we walk in humility. •• our bad habits are corrected. •• our will is strengthened to resist our love of self and submit to the will of God. •• we become more like Jesus and desire him more. •• we become more loving in giving of ourselves.

•• we become more responsive to the prompting and movement of the Holy Spirit. Practise confession and let the cut of your life reflect the light and glory of the King of Kings. Major Toni Cartmell is the divisional secretary for spiritual life development and the divisional director of women’s ministries for the Alberta and Northern Territories Division.

Practise Confession If we are to fully embrace the transforming power of God in our lives, we need to understand and practise confession as a spiritual discipline. Here are some suggestions for how to begin: • Ask someone to be your confessor. They should be able to keep confidence, listen with grace and have the wisdom and authority to assure you of God’s forgiveness. • Ask God what to confess and he will guide you. Perhaps you struggle with perfectionism, fear, anger, impatience, apathy or worry. • Accept God’s word through your confidant just as you would your pastor. • Confess something this week. • Share your freedom and healing with others.

Photo: © 123dartist/stock.Adobe.com

BY MAJOR TONI CARTMELL

Live It Out

Holding together word and deed: the strategic priority of integrated mission. BY LT-COLONEL DEBBIE GRAVES

When she unveiled her international vision for The Salvation Army, General Linda Bond (Rtd) challenged us to move “forward together, into the world of the hurting, broken, lonely, dispossessed and lost, reaching them by all means, with the transforming message of Jesus bringing freedom, hope and life.” We often think of mission as going to another country, but have you ever considered planning a mission trip in your own community? We don’t have to go very far to find people who are lonely, in crisis or struggling to make ends meet. Let’s get to know and understand them, and help build their capacity to become the people that God created them to be. Let’s focus on their strengths and abilities, and the contribution they can make in the church and community. And let’s be open to learning from them, and receiving their gifts. The search is on for individuals, congregations and social services units that want to become more involved in mission. We celebrate that there are already many places in our territory that are living out integrated mission. We give thanks to God as we hear stories of people’s lives being transformed. Our hope is that more individuals, and

eventually whole communities, will feel the impact of the Holy Spirit through our love and commitment to mission. While integrated mission is focused on people and community, integrated ministry encourages all ministries, both corps and social services, to work together. As a territory, we believe that the deeper the community, the more opportunities there are to help initiate change and offer hope. In the words of Colonel Brindley Boon, journalist, songwriter and composer, we are challenged to re-evaluate and rededicate ourselves: “For thy mission make me holy, for thy glory make me thine, sanctify each moment fully, fill my life with love divine.” Lt-Colonel Debbie Graves is the integrated mission secretary for the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

You can read more about the seven strategic priorities at salvationist.ca/ strategic-priorities. Salvationist November 2016 17

Photo: © franckreporter/iStock.com

ntegrated mission is not a program, it’s a way of life, built on the foundations of care, community, change and hope. The goal of integrated mission, one of the seven territorial strategic priorities, is mission without borders—for every expression of The Salvation Army to live out an all-embracing, redemptive gospel as we share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and become a transforming influence in the communities of our world. We will accomplish this by: •• motivating and equipping all ministry units to embrace integrated mission as a way of life; •• embracing a holistic approach to ministry for the whole person; •• encouraging every ministry unit to engage in evangelistic initiatives and opportunities; •• exploring new ways to train people in community capacity development, in order to minister to the deepest needs of society. Relationships and community are essential for integrated mission. Caring relationships give a community the ability to initiate change and bring hope. “Faith and works … fit together hand in glove,” the Bible notes (James 2:18 The Message). In On the Anvil, author Max Lucado writes, “Our Master knew the value of a relationship. It was through relationships that he changed the world. His movement thrived not on personality or power, but on championing the value of a person. He built bridges and crossed them. Touching the leper … uniting the estranged … exalting the prostitute. And what was that he said about loving your neighbour as yourself?” The territory continues to invest in training and equipping people for mission. Each division has an integrated mission representative available as a resource for both divisional and local ministry units that want to become more intentional about living out mission in their communities.

Foundations for Farming The Salvation Army promotes conservation agriculture in Malawi. BY BAYARDO GONZALEZ

18 November 2016 Salvationist

Photos: Ibrahim Thawani

n Malawi, a landlocked nation in southeast Africa, food security is a serious concern. The subtropical climate often leads to drought and soil erosion in a country highly dependent on agriculture. Hunger is a daily reality, especially in the remote, isolated communities of Funwe and Matapang’ombe. But with the help of donors and funding generated by the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s Gifts of Hope program, the Army in Malawi has been able to reach these areas. In September 2015, the United Nations set 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to eradicate poverty and hunger by 2030. The second goal is to “achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.” In response, The Salvation Army in Malawi consulted community members and leaders to assess problem areas and discovered that farming techniques, along with the high cost of farming resources, were the main barriers to food security. As a result, the local Salvation Army partnered with Foundations for Farming (FFF)—a Christian organization that teaches conservation agriculture—to train 100 local farmers from Funwe and Matapang’ombe. Conservation agriculture is a method of farming that prevents soil erosion by minimizing tillage. Covering the soil reduces evaporation, keeping water where it’s needed. FFF also promotes crop rotation and the use of manure compost rather than nonorganic fertilizers. But training farmers in best agricultural practices is only one aspect of a multi-pronged approach to food security and nutrition. With this in mind, the Army provided farming families with the resources necessary to put FFF methods into action. Farmers were equipped with fertilizer, maize seeds and an assortment of farming chemicals. In addition to providing resources, The Salvation Army regularly monitors and evaluates project activities. While Funwe and Matapang’ombe

A farmer shows the results of conservation agriculture, a method of farming that reduces tillage, preventing soil erosion and minimizing water loss

Cpt Felix Phiri distributes fertilizer in Malawi

are predominantly Muslim communities, villagers were fully aware of The Salvation Army’s Christian faith and were welcoming and supportive of local efforts to improve farming techniques. On one of the monitoring visits to Funwe, representatives from The Salvation Army spoke to the village headman, Kalowa, who was happy with the results of the initiative. “Before I was trained in Foundations for Farming by The Salvation Army, I

used to harvest three bags of 50 kilograms each from my plot,” he said. “Now I have harvested 17 bags. I am very thankful to The Salvation Army for the work it is doing. It has benefited not only Christians but Muslims, and the general community as well.” Kalowa recently asked to be a FFF ambassador for The Salvation Army in Malawi. Training farmers in best agricultural practices benefits the whole community on many levels while promoting sustainability. The practical knowledge gained by the farmers will allow them to feed their children, many of whom are severely undernourished. Additionally, once the farmers realize how much they are able to produce, they will pass along their knowledge to other farmers. The expectation is that with proper resources and sound agricultural methods, villagers will be able to sustain themselves and their families for years to come. To contribute to life-changing programs such as the one in Malawi, please visit salvationarmy.ca/giftsofhope. Bayardo Gonzalez is the resource media co-ordinator in the world missions department.

FRESH IDEAS

Good Points New food bank system in Midland, Ont., promotes dignity for clients. BY KIM DUQUETTE

A client makes her selections at the Midland Salvation Army food bank

he Salvation Army food bank in Midland, Ont., serves an average of 195 families each month, and we are always looking for ways to improve the experience of those who walk through our doors. Radically overhauling our system was an intimidating prospect, but our experience over the past year and a half has proved it was well worth it. In June 2014, our staff attended an Ontario Association of Food Banks conference where we learned about the point value food distribution system. Under this system, clients are given a certain number of points based on family size. Instead of receiving a pre-packed box, the clients become “shoppers” who can spend their points on various items in the food bank. I approached our corps officer about bringing this system to our food bank.

I explained how giving our clients an opportunity to make their own food choices was empowering, and how this system fit with The Salvation Army’s core value of dignity. We were soon developing a pilot project. We spent many hours on the details of how this system could work in our food bank. We took apart our existing food boxes to determine how many points each contained. Then we added more points to account for milk, eggs and extras that we offered but weren’t necessarily included in the pre-packed boxes. We put a lot of thought into determining how many points each size of family would receive at each visit. We devised a colour-coded system, assigning a different colour for each point value. We decided to put coloured stripes on our shelves and coloured stickers on each product to easily display

point values. We designed a new floor plan to accommodate shoppers. We even created a checkout area where we could monitor the points used and help our clients bag their selections. We set out to do a two-month pilot, starting April 1, 2015. We felt that as our food bank was on a once-a-month visit guideline, our clients would need two chances to have this “shopping” experience to fully appreciate the system. We devised a questionnaire that our clients could fill out after their second visit to get their feedback. The first day was nerve-racking. When people made their food selections, many were confused. Anticipating this, we had extra volunteers assigned as “personal shoppers” to walk people through the process. Several clients commented that they liked selecting their own items, while one felt it was too much work. We expected mixed reviews. The second day was different. Word had already spread in our small town about the change and some clients were excited to “shop.” We still had to help people navigate the system but things were smoother and faster. By the second week we had it down pat. Overall, things went better than we could have asked for. By May, every client we talked to at their second visit loved the point system, and some even said it was fun. Imagine that! Given the reaction of the clients, we made a unanimous decision: we were never going back to the old system. Along with improving our clients’ experience, we now have much better control over our inventory. If an item isn’t moving off the shelves, we have a “special” and mark it down in point value. We offer meal packs, complete with recipes—a great way to use lessselected items. Items that used to sit for months, such as toiletries and hygiene products, fly off our shelves. Condiments and baking supplies that were not asked for or offered before are now in demand. We have become a better resource for our clients. Allowing them to select only the items they need at each visit means they can look for sales at regular stores and use the food bank to fill in the gaps on their shopping list. By empowering them to be more active in their decisions, we have given our clients dignity. Kim Duquette is the program services worker at Midland Community Church, Ont. Salvationist November 2016 19

Blunt Talk Canada’s marijuana laws are going to change. What does that mean for Salvationists?

The Case for Legalization Three points seem to be at the heart of the case for liberalizing the law: 1) continuing to treat the use of marijuana as a criminal offence costs too much; 2) even-handedness means we shouldn’t outlaw marijuana when we don’t outlaw alcohol; and, 3) for adults, freedom from government interference 20 November 2016 Salvationist

is a fundamental democratic value. These claims are worth looking at. I was caught by surprise when I learned that the former head of the Toronto Police Service, Bill Blair, now a Liberal MP, was the cabinet minister

We need to ask ourselves: “Is this the way I want to treat my body?”

ignoring the present law and enforcing it at great cost in terms of time, personnel, and court and jail resources. Without doubt, the cost of enforcement has been huge. A Senate report in 2002 pegged it at $300-$500 million a year. On top of the enforcement costs is the government revenue that could be generated if marijuana was taxed like alcohol or tobacco. According to the chartered accountants’ association, the average Canadian family already pays close to $2,000 a year in taxes on those things. Legalizing marijuana and taxing it could help the governments’ bottom lines.

named to lead the political process of changing the law. I thought a police chief would be against it. But a little research revealed that what has really troubled the police is the tension they feel between

The Value of Freedom Quite apart from the financial considerations, something does seem irrational about our laws on marijuana use and our laws on alcohol, doesn’t it? People can drink themselves silly and break no laws, but if they possess a “joint” they

Photo: © stokkete/stock.Adobe.com

he Liberal Party of Canada ran for office in 2015 with the promise to legalize the use of marijuana. Since they won a majority in that election, it is going to happen—no matter what I think. Why waste ink writing about it? Well, for one thing, it would be good to know the reasons (besides getting votes) that lie behind the Liberal promise. More importantly, just because something is legal doesn’t mean I should do it. Without a law to tell me not to do something, I’ll have to decide for myself.

BY JAMES READ

have broken the law before taking the first puff. Of course, one could agree that drinking alcohol, smoking tobacco and using marijuana should not be treated differently, and then argue they should all be criminalized. That would treat them equally. But even as a principled teetotaler who hasn’t tried any of these substances, I would not argue for prohibition. Prohibition requires a massive governmental restraint on personal liberty. Not all Christians would agree with me, but I firmly believe that liberty is a Christian value. In my understanding, God created people out of abundant divine grace and wants them to love him in return, but does not compel their love. God wants it freely given. “Freely you have received; freely give” (Matthew 10:8). Salvation Army teaching is that choice is a good thing; it is the bad exercise of free human choice that has given sin entry to history. The Salvation Army teaches that sin entangles people and compromises their ability to choose. Sin enslaves; God liberates. For me, this has political and social implications. It is not as if there is no case for the government to interfere with what people want to do, but the case has to be made. The burden is on showing that constraint is justified. Health Benefits? Those who argue that marijuana is a good thing point to its supposed health benefits or its pleasures. Medical marijuana is said to bring relief to pain and nausea, and has worked to stimulate the appetite of some patients who have lost their desire to eat. These are not unimportant benefits. And someday marijuana may be used in mainstream medicine as opiates are now. But just how beneficial marijuana is in relation to alternatives, and which chemicals in marijuana are therapeutic and which aren’t—and in what doses—is presently poorly understood. This is why doctors in Canada have guidelines for giving a patient permission to access marijuana, but they can’t prescribe it. (Ironically, we don’t have answers to these questions in part because the law has made it hard for researchers to access the substance they need to study.) Those who use marijuana recreationally tout its ability to enhance the taste of food, and the way it relaxes them and eases social interaction. Some seek its

perception-altering capacities. Against these benefits—especially with respect to the “recreational” use of marijuana—one has only to read the facts on a site such as the Canadian Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH): “Using a lot of marijuana for a long time may make it harder to pay attention, remember things and learn. Large doses of marijuana can lead to ‘toxic psychosis.’ This can cause people to hallucinate (see or hear things that aren’t really there), become paranoid (feel like people are out to get them) and believe things that aren’t true.” It may not be addicting in the same way that alcohol and tobacco are, but CAMH doesn’t hesitate to say marijuana is addictive. The “stoner” personality is not a fiction. Even casually used, marijuana dulls critical thinking. It can trigger schizophrenia and anxiety. It can

Just because something is legal doesn’t mean I should do it. Without a law to tell me not to … I’ll have to decide for myself. cause problems in pregnancy. Smoked, it can cause cancer. And in the current unregulated environment, marijuana purchased on the street may contain other dangerous elements besides THC. An investigative report in the Globe and Mail on what’s available in so-called dispensaries (visit tgam.ca/marijuana) is sobering. THC stands for “delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol” and it is the main ingredient that produces the marijuana high. Growers have consequently tried to cultivate strains that contain higher percentages of THC. Marijuana also contains CBD, or “cannabidiol” which, interestingly enough, appears to work to moderate the psychotropic effects of THC. Plants with high THC and low CBD therefore put their users’ minds

at greater risk; plants with higher CBD may prove more desirable for medical purposes. Time will tell. We need to ask ourselves: “Is this the way I want to treat my body? Is this the way to thank the God who gives me life and rich possibilities? If it is true that my body is in some way the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit, is this the way I show God hospitality?” We need to ask these sorts of questions before we do lots of things, like eating “ordinary” food, but marijuana shouldn’t be excluded. Impact on Others On top of these questions, however, Christians need to ask about the impact of our decisions on others. Homelessness has increased in Denver since Colorado legalized marijuana and Salvation Army services fear they are at the breaking point. And when I put on my grandparent hat, things get really scary. Marijuana use alters brain development in children and youth. It creates attention and memory problems and impairs judgment—with long-term consequences for young people. “Although increasing legalization of marijuana has contributed to the growing belief that marijuana is harmless, research documents the risks of its use by youth are grave,” said the American College of Pediatricians in an April 2016 statement. “Marijuana is addicting, has adverse effects upon the adolescent brain, is a risk for both cardio-respiratory disease and testicular cancer, and is associated with both psychiatric illness and negative social outcomes.” If I love my grandchildren—and I do; if I care about the children and grandchildren in my corps—which I also do; if my love for my neighbour extends beyond my immediate neighbourhood— which it should do more—then I want to make it difficult for them to get their hands on weed. Canada’s marijuana laws are going to change. The change won’t be as massive as the one that means Canadian doctors can now terminate the lives of their patients, but it is going to be big. And, as a Christian who cherishes democratic freedom, knowing the facts means I should advocate for regulation that makes it difficult for children and adults to choose to harm themselves. Dr. James Read is the executive director of The Salvation Army Ethics Centre in Winnipeg. Salvationist November 2016 21

#TRENDING

Beyond Left and Right The Salvation Army’s stance on politics.

lato, the ancient Greek philosopher, is credited with saying: “Those who are too smart to engage in politics are punished by being governed by those who are dumber.” This is a harsh statement, but it describes the frustration many people feel about politics and political figures. In many parts of the world, the political landscape seems to have turned into bad reality television. Watching or reading the news leaves many of us wondering if there is prophetic truth to Plato’s words. Sometimes, The Salvation Army uses the word “apolitical” or the phrase “politically neutral” to describe its stance on politics, but these terms aren’t entirely accurate. The Canadian Oxford Dictionary defines “apolitical” as “not interested or involved in politics.” By this definition, we are not apolitical—we are both interested and involved in politics. In the Christian view, God is the source of political authority (see Romans 13:1-8). Governments are charged with exercising this authority—providing just conditions and acting to protect the poor and marginalized—as servants of God. Of course, the political process is human and flawed. So the Army is keenly interested in political decisions that affect the vulnerable as we seek to live out the gospel. As James described: “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world” (James 1:27). Early in our history, the Army was involved in a campaign to raise the age of consent in London, England, helping to protect girls from abuse and exploitation. Recently, our territory submitted a brief to the federal government outlining our opposition to new legislation around assisted dying. We regularly host MPs, respond to government consultations and provide feedback on the federal budget highlighting areas of concern for our clients. 22 November 2016 Salvationist

So we are not apolitical. A better way to describe ourselves is “non-pa r tisa n.” The Salvation Army does not endorse or promote one political leader or party over another, so we are free to speak to everyone with credibility. Our role is to represent those in society who are often overlooked—to ask questions and express values that are more than selfinterest. The Christian tradition is full of examples of people who were political but non-partisan: William Wilberforce, William and Catherine Booth, Dorothy Day, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Mother Teresa and Desmond Tutu. They engaged with the political context of their times, working for justice and the common good. If they had been “apolitical,” the lives of many people would have been dramatically different. We don’t know much about the political beliefs of Jesus’ followers, but they probably didn’t agree on everything. Matthew was a tax collector for the Romans; the second Simon may have been a Zealot, a group that opposed Roman rule and wanted to overthrow it by force. Perhaps they had heated debates about politics. Jesus cautioned his disciples to respect and submit to the ruling authorities, but also called them to a new way of living. As The Salvation Army, we must speak into the world of politics on behalf of those on the margins, to amplify their voices. But we do so from outside the political system, as people whose loyalty belongs not to a political leader or party, but to God. Derek Webb, a Christian musician, puts it this way: “My first allegiance is not to a flag, a country or a man. My first allegiance is not to democracy or blood. It’s to a King and a kingdom.” Captain Mark Braye is the corps officer at Sarnia Community Church, Ont.

Photo: © chaiyapruek/stock.Adobe.com

BY CAPTAIN MARK BRAYE

HERSTORY

The Peaceable Kingdom When my son was bullied at school, it wasn’t easy to “love my enemy.” BY LIEUTENANT KRISTEN JACKSON-DOCKERAY

As Christians, we are called to expose evil, without mirroring it. “There is no way to peace along the way of safety,” said Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Battles are not won with weapons, but with God. They are won when the way leads to the cross, where Jesus triumphed over evil, where he spoke words of love and forgiveness in the face of hate and violence. This is a king who turns things upside down. Who interrupts our patterns of behaviour. Who turns capital punishment into life. Who shows us the way of suffering love. This peace doesn’t mean we sit idly by while men, women and children are hurt; when one child chokes another on the school playground. No, you call the principal. You demand better attention in the schoolyard. It doesn’t mean we

sit and wait for the coming kingdom. As Christians, we are called to expose evil, without mirroring it. So Jackson and I spent that night— and many nights after—praying and listening for God. We pray for that young boy by name. As we pray, our hearts grow softer. Peace and forgiveness interrupt our hurt and anger. We learn more about him, this boy whose name is said with disdain by teachers and parents at the school. He has no friends. He is uncontrollable. A nuisance. Later, we learn that he has been removed from his home, where he was abused. My heart breaks. Now I pray not just for the little boy, but for his parents. Because, again, my first reaction was not prayer, but something slightly more vindictive. I follow this calling of Jesus humbly, daring to hope that in small gestures of love and forgiveness, the shalom of Jesus Christ might interrupt our lives, our way of thinking and our world. Lieutenant Kristen Jackson-Dockeray is the divisional youth secretary in the British Columbia Division. Salvationist November 2016 23

Photo: © MachineHeadz/iStock.com

’m a pacifist—I don’t think war is justifiable. But in spite of my convictions, sometimes it seems like violence is the only answer. When my son came home from school and told me that another student had tried to choke him, my first instinct was not peaceful. I wanted to teach Jackson how to kick and punch his way out of the situation—to harm this child so we would never have to deal with him again. Instead, I spent the evening crying, praying and telling my son that Jesus loves this kid, even if we don’t. I’ve come to believe that the reason Jesus talks so plainly about loving our enemies and turning the other cheek is because it doesn’t come naturally to us. It isn’t our knee-jerk reaction. It’s only through prayer, tears and work that we foster this kind of love. In Scripture, we learn that history is moving toward a time when God reigns, a time of shalom (peace), when all the relationships broken by the fall are restored. In this peaceable kingdom, lions and lambs will be playmates. Swords and spears will be turned into plows and pruning hooks. Peace is not just the absence of violence; it is the flourishing of people and creation. This vision of peace, promised in the Old Testament, arrives in the New Testament with the birth of a baby, born to peasants. Jesus inaugurated the kingdom of God. In Galatians 3, Paul tells us that in Christ, everything that divides us is no more. Race, socio-economic status, gender, age—none of it matters. None of it is important in God’s kingdom. Jesus is our shalom. But although the kingdom of God is already here, it’s also not yet here. The evil that surrounds us is obvious, from bullies in schoolyards to conflict and war. The Bible is never romantic about the vision of shalom. In this kingdom, peace is hard work. It is a gift and a task. Each one of us is responsible to make peace—to sow seeds of love, forgiveness, grace and mercy. Peace is risky; it must be dared.

CROSS CULTURE

IN REVIEW DIRECTED BY MEL GIBSON Based on true events, Hacksaw Ridge is the story of a military medic who saved dozens of lives despite being a conscientious objector. The film, now in theatres, follows Desmond Doss (Andrew Garfield) who, in Okinawa, Japan, during the bloodiest battle of the Second World War, saved 75 men without firing a gun. Though he enlisted voluntarily, Doss refused to kill an enemy soldier or carry a gun into combat because of his religious beliefs as a Seventh-day Adventist. He was the first conscientious objector ever to earn the Congressional Medal of Honor. When Hacksaw Ridge premiered at the Venice Film Festival in September, it received a 10-minute standing ovation.

The White Helmets DIRECTED BY ORLANDO VON EINSIEDEL The Syrian Civil Defence, also known as the White Helmets because of their signature headgear, is a group of 3,000 civilian volunteers who risk their lives to rescue victims of the ongoing war. To date, the group, which was nominated for the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize, has saved more than 60,000 people. Their motto is “to save a life is to save all of humanity.” A new 40-minute Netflix documentary, set in Aleppo, Syria, and Turkey in early 2016, profiles three of their volunteers. Moving and inspiring, The White Helmets is both a snapshot of the harrowing realities of life for ordinary Syrians who remain in the country, and a humbling portrait of the power of the human spirit.

Teen Creates Anti-Bullying App

A f ter she faced severe bullying at school, 16-year-old Natalie Hampton came up with an idea for an app that she hoped would help others make friends and avoid bullies. Called Sit With Us, the app makes it easy for ch i ld ren to co- A new phone app aims to ensure that no ordinate lunches person has to eat lunch alone at school with their friends. App users can also sign up as ambassadors for their schools and post open lunch events on campus where everyone is welcome. Users can then search for open lunches, find a group to sit with and make new friends. “At my old school, I tried many times to reach out to someone, but I was rejected many times,” Hampton told NPR. “This way, it’s very private. It’s through the phone. No one else has to know. And you know that you’re not going to be rejected once you get to the table.”

Religion Worth $1.2 Trillion in United States

A new study looking at the impact of religion on American society has found that religious congregations, institutions and businesses contribute nearly $1.2 trillion to the economy. “In an age where there’s a growing belief that religion is not a positive for American society, adding up the numbers is a tangible reminder of the impact of religion,” says study co-author Dr. Brian Grim. Some examples of programs included in the study are alcohol and drug abuse recovery, support for military veterans and support or skills training for unemployed adults.

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IN THE NEWS

PEOPLE & PLACES

Accepted for Training Messengers of the Gospel Session (2016-2018) College for Officer Training, Winnipeg Richard Apperson Hazelton—Upper Skeena Circuit with Gitsegukla and Sik-e-dakh (Glen Vowell), British Columbia Division Shortly after I became a soldier, I began to sense God’s call to officership. I had conversations with our area commander about what this commitment would mean, and prayed and reflected on this decision. My wife and I felt this was the Lord’s leading. Sarah Apperson Hazelton—Upper Skeena Circuit with Gitsegukla and Sik-e-dakh (Glen Vowell), British Columbia Division I believe that the CFOT will provide not only spiritual and practical knowledge, but it will be a place to grow in intimacy with Christ. I believe officership means being committed, prepared and positioned to effectively serve him. Barry Austin Brampton, Ontario Central-East Division As I prepared for officership training, I worked at the Warehouse Mission in downtown Toronto. My time there helped me to grow in my faith and confirmed my call as I ministered to people from all walks of life. I saw the needs of others and the significance of upholding the Officer’s Covenant. David Haggett North York Temple, Ontario Central-East Division I accepted Christ at a junior youth councils and from that point on I felt the Holy Spirit leading me toward officership. Shortly after I married my wife, Gina, we joined the candidates’ fellowship, but we decided that officership was not for us at that time. Over the next 30 years of marriage, I felt the Lord leading me to officership, and then the Holy Spirit spoke to Gina in a wonderful way. We want to obey his call and serve him wherever he leads. Gina Haggett North York Temple, Ontario Central-East Division Officership means being obedient to the specific purpose the Lord has for my life. My husband, David, and I are entering the CFOT in these later years of our lives, but we are walking through the doors that God opens. It’s his will and his way, not ours.

Accepted for Training as an Auxiliary-Captain Parker Shieh Southmount Citadel, Vancouver, British Columbia Division In 2012, I unexpectedly stopped at Southmount Citadel where I was introduced to the mission of the Army. An invitation to participate in community service ministries resulted in a Bible study program for Mandarin-speaking immigrants, and after much prayer and encouragement, I affirmed the calling of God to begin my journey to officership. In my role now as an auxiliary-captain, my passion to carry out God’s mission has taken on new significance.

PETERBOROUGH, ONT.—Canaan Davison and Annie Robertson are enrolled as senior soldiers at Peterborough Temple. From left, Mjr Herbert Sharp, CO; Canaan Davison; RS Doug Leach; Bob Quackenbush, colour sergeant; Annie Robertson; and Mjr Kathleen Sharp, CO.

PETERBOROUGH, ONT.—During a recent visit of Mjr Keith Pike, TYS, to Peterborough Temple, three young people and two of their leaders are recognized for their achievements through Scouts Canada. From left, Scouter Heather Robertson, Certificate of Commendation; Venturer Scout Bramwell Robertson, Chief Scout’s Award; Venturer Scout Evelyn Robertson, General’s Award; Mjr Keith Pike; Venturer Scout Frances Emery, Chief Scout’s Award; and Scouter Neil Emery, Certificate of Commendation.

YARMOUTH, N.S.—Yarmouth CC celebrates as six young people take a stand for Christ and are enrolled as junior soldiers. Proudly displaying their Junior Soldier Promises are, from left, Hunter Surette, Tyler Amiro, Felicity GaudetSnow, Brandon Gaudet, Keira Amiro and Bailey Gaudet-Snow. Supporting them are, from left, Cpt Mike Mailman, CO; CSM Hayward Baggs; Hugh Nickerson, holding the flag; Cdt Jesse Byers, then responsible for youth and young adults ministries at Yarmouth CC; and Cpt Melissa Mailman, CO. WINNIPEG—Kealan Ludlow and Hayden Nelson are the newest junior soldiers at Heritage Park Temple. Welcoming them are JSS Debbie Clarke and Paul Nelson, holding the flag.

Salvationist November 2016 25

PEOPLE & PLACES

WINNIPEG—Heritage Park Temple welcomes four senior soldiers and three adherents to their corps family. From left, Mjr Owen Budden, CO; Samantha Webster, Paul Morgan and Laurelle Armstrong, senior soldiers; Mikaela Sagness, adherent; David Guest, senior soldier; Tina Smillie and Jim Dunphy, adherents.

GRAND BANK, N.L.—From left, Lauren Grandy and Jared Clements are enrolled as junior soldiers at Grand Bank Corps. Supporting them are Mjrs Phyllis Blundell-Colbourne and Reid Colbourne, COs.

EDMONTON—Senior soldiers and adherents are enrolled at Edmonton Temple. From left, Herb Presley, facilitator; Tammy Young, senior soldier; Steve Young, adherent; Donna Kaulback, adherent; Barbara Heintzman, senior soldier; Sandie Presley, director of pastoral care; and Mjr Clarence Bradbury, then CO.

GAZETTE TERRITORIAL Birth: Cpts Jon/Tracy Savage, son, Markus Andrew, Aug 2, 2015 Appointments: Mjr Violet Barrow, secretary for spiritual life development, Ont. GL Div*; Lt-Col Jamie Braund, executive officer, Canadian Staff Band, THQ*; Cpt Glenn/Mjr Jean Bridger, Birchy Bay and Comfort Cove/Newstead Circuit, N.L. Div; Mjr Linda Budgell, secretary for spiritual life development, Maritime Div*; Mjr Darlene Burt, personnel officer, THQ; Mjr Dale Lewis, program facilitator, Victoria Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre, B.C. Div; Cpt Hannu Lindholm, associate corps officer—community and family services, Wiarton CC, Ont. GL Div; Cpt Geraldine Lindholm, associate corps officer—children and youth ministry (Indigenous focus), Wiarton CC, Ont. GL Div; Mjrs Daniel/Lori Pinksen, Richmond Hill CC, Ont. CE Div; Lts Randy/Cathy Shears, Lower Trinity Corps, N.L. Div; Lt-Col Wendy Waters, executive officer, Canadian Staff Songsters, THQ*; Cpts Darren/Danette Woods, Saint John Hope CC, N.B., Maritime Div (*additional responsibility) Promoted to glory: Mrs. Comr Alison Walter, from Toronto, Aug 15; Mjr Linda Barrett, from St. John’s, N.L., Aug 16; Mrs. Mjr Joan Haggett, from Halifax, Aug 17; Mjr Glen McEwan, from Regina, Aug 23; Mrs. Mjr Ellen Tackaberry, from Toronto, Aug 25; Mrs. Mjr Hazel Hickson, from Victoria, Aug 27; Mjr Betty Goobie, from Toronto, Aug 31; Mrs. Mjr Margaret Kennedy, from Kingsville, Ont., Sep 2 CALENDAR Commissioner Susan McMillan: Oct 25-Nov 8 Holy Land tour; Nov 13-14 CFOT; Nov 18 Hope in the City Breakfast, Toronto; Nov 19 Fall Festival, Barrie, Ont.; Nov 20 Santa Claus Parade, Toronto; Nov 20-22 Territorial Executive Conference, JPCC; Nov 25-29 General’s Consultative Council, Basking Ridge, New Jersey Colonels Mark and Sharon Tillsley: Nov 20-23 Territorial Executive Conference, JPCC; Nov 24-29 General’s Consultative Council, Basking Ridge, New Jersey Canadian Staff Band: Nov 19 Fall Festival, Barrie, Ont.; Nov 20 Santa Claus Parade, Toronto

26 November 2016 Salvationist

DILDO, N.L.—Two local officers are commissioned at Trinity Bay South Corps. From left, CSM Glen Reid; Mjrs Garry and Sandra Ward, COs; Doreen Hann, corps treasurer; Violet Pilgrim, corps secretary; Cpt Jennifer Reid, divisional adult ministries secretary and divisional secretary for spiritual life development, N.L. Div; and Cpt Bradley Reid, DSBA, N.L. Div.

CAMPBELL RIVER, B.C.—Adam James Meads is dedicated back to the Lord by his parents, Nicholas and Sarah Meads, at Ocean Crest CC. With them are, from left, Lts Violet and Keith Hopkins, COs, and Hazen Taylor, holding the flag.

BONAVISTA, N.L.—Celebrating the 130th anniversary of Bonavista Corps are, from left, Mjrs Edward and Rose Canning, then COs; Ollie Way; Santianna Green; and Mjrs Valerie and Brian Wheeler, COs, St. John’s Citadel, N.L., and guest leaders.

PEOPLE & PLACES

HALIFAX—Junior soldiers at Halifax Citadel CC recommit to their Junior Soldier Promises during a renewal service.

P E N T I C TO N , B .C . — Members of the CCM group at Penticton CC hosted a strawberry social at the corps for residents of various retirement and nursing homes where they minister throughout the year. Guests were welcomed by CCM member Fran Ronson, who was dressed in a ceremonial robe that she had crafted in honour of National Aboriginal Day. Enjoying the festivities are, from left, Jean Kinder, volunteer Lorna Dawkins and Fran Ronson. The annual event features refreshments, entertainment and music.

TORONTO—Salvationists and volunteers from Toronto Harbour Light Ministries distribute more than 1,000 bottles of water and snacks to participants in the annual Warrior’s Day Parade at the Canadian National Exhibition.

HALIFAX—From left, Samuel Bodapati and Hayley Hillier are enrolled as senior soldiers at Halifax Citadel CC.

Salvationist November 2016 27

PEOPLE & PLACES

TRIBUTES TORONTO—Mrs. Commissioner Alison R. Walter was born in Melbourne, Australia, and immigrated to Canada with her officer parents in 1951. Married to Stanley in 1953, they were commissioned in 1955 in the Soul Winners Session. Following a corps appointment at Oakville, Ont., they served six years at Army schools in Zimbabwe and Kenya. Returning to Canada in 1965, they held divisional and training college appointments in Toronto before becoming divisional leaders in Alberta. In 1978, they were appointed to East Africa, where Alison was the territorial secretary for women’s organizations. A return to territorial headquarters in Toronto preceded their appointment as territorial leaders in South Africa from 1986 to 1990. Their final appointments were at International Headquarters, where Alison ministered as the zonal secretary for women’s organizations for Africa. Retiring in 1992, they returned to Canada and maintained a teaching and preaching ministry until Stan’s promotion to glory in 2004. In recent years, despite limited mobility, Alison maintained a ministry of prayer and encouragement. She is remembered by sons Stan (Maryon) and Keith (Cheryl); daughter, Major Beverley Smith (Ken); eight grandchildren; sister-in-law, Audrey Harewood; brother-in-law, Vince Walter (Cherie); a loving extended family and friends from North Toronto Community Church. LONDON, ONT.—Born in 1947, Stanley James Burditt was a fourth-generation Salvationist and the first child of Stanley and Marjory Burditt. He became the big brother to Gary, Rob, Don and Nancy, and special sister, Sue. The family attended Barton St. (Hamilton 3) Corps in Ontario, until Stan was 13, when his parents entered the College for Officer Training. He lived throughout Ontario with his officer parents, and upon his marriage, moved to Woodstock, Ont., where sons Jeffrey and Matthew were born. Stan spent several years at Winnipeg Citadel before moving to London Citadel in 1992, where he met and married his treasured wife, Aura. Stan was a musician, avid golfer and sports enthusiast, and had a passionate interest in the fight against human trafficking, which led him and Aura to join London Anti-Human Trafficking (LAHT). Stan formed the group Men Against Sexual Trafficking (MAST), toured northern Ontario to share information, and in 2012, walked from London to Queens Park in Toronto to raise awareness. Stan wore many hats—son, brother, husband, father, stepfather, step-grandfather, uncle, cousin, nephew, friend and champion of the underdog. Promoted to glory following a brief illness, he is missed and remembered with love and respect. WINNIPEG—Commissioner Charlotte Elizabeth Nelson was born in Chatham, Ont., in 1930. Commissioned in 1953, Elizabeth undertook nurse’s training at the Toronto Grace Hospital. She married Captain John Nelson in 1956, and in 1957, they were transferred to the Caribbean and Central America Territory, where they served for 22 years. Returning to Canada in 1979, they served at territorial headquarters and as divisional leaders in Manitoba and North West Ontario. In 1986, they became territorial leaders of the Pakistan Territory, where Elizabeth gave oversight to women’s ministries, including an adult literacy program and mother/child nutritional program. Appointed as zonal leaders for South Asia in 1991, Elizabeth took an interest in women’s development programs and established the Women’s Advisory Council for India. In retirement, Elizabeth enjoyed spending time with family, volunteering at the Winnipeg Grace Hospital, painting, travelling and attending Southlands Community Church. Elizabeth’s strong faith and gentle spirit impacted many lives. Elizabeth is survived by her husband of 60 years, John; son, Chris (Janice), and grandchildren Matt, Tyler and Dylan; son, Paul (Debby), and grandchildren Kassandra, Micaela and Hayden; daughter, Captain Elizabeth; sisters Margaret Bender and Ethel (Gordon) Mundy; brother-in-law, Ernest Bent; sister-in-law, Louise Nelson; many cousins, nieces and nephews. 28 November 2016 Salvationist

SEAL COVE, FORTUNE BAY, N.L.—William John Langdon was born in Seal Cove, F.B., in 1925. A soldier at Seal Cove Corps for more than 60 years, he was involved in local leadership, leading Sunday services and teaching Sunday school. William enjoyed attending men’s fellowship and men’s camp, and read the Army’s publications regularly. William’s faith in God and daily Bible reading brought great comfort to him. He loved to sing, and in recent months, wrote down the titles of “old” hymns and choruses as they came to mind. William spent his last 15 months in Ottawa with his daughter, where he attended Ottawa Citadel and enjoyed watching evening services from Conception Bay South Corps, N.L., by live stream. Family and friends were important to William and he spent his final days surrounded by them in Newfoundland. Predeceased by Florrie, his dear wife of 71 years, William is survived by sons Oliver (Margaret) and William Jr. (Queen); daughter, Major Renée (Daniel); grandchildren Sylvia (Andrew), Verena (George), Shawn (Debbie), Sheldon (Krissie), Stephen, Jeremy (Joanna); great-grandchildren David, Claire, Jane, Rachel, Deidre, Dawson, Oliver, Ellie and Emery; extended family and friends. CLARENVILLE, N.L.—Frank Wilbur Adams was born in Sunnyside, N.L., in 1929, and grew up attending the United Church. While working in Montreal, he became a soldier of Montreal Citadel. Returning to Clarenville, Wilbur was an active soldier at Clarenville Corps where he was a member of the men’s fellowship and served as the assistant corps sergeant-major for eight years. Wilbur was promoted to glory following a short illness and will be recalled for his love of the Lord, his corps family and many friends. Wilbur is lovingly remembered by his wife, Elrita; brother, Arthur; sisters-in-law Eileen Adams and Greta Sturge; and many nieces.

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TROUBLESOME TEXTS

The Deity of Christ BY GENERAL BRAMWELL H. TILLSLEY (RTD) “ ‘Why do you call me good?’ Jesus answered. ‘No one is good—except God alone.’ ”—Luke 18:19

HALIFAX—Halifax Citadel CC enrols Chris Pilkington as a senior soldier. From left, Cpt Wayne Knight, then CO; Mjr Bernard Borden, holding the flag; Barbara Hubley; Chris Pilkington; CT Addie Burke; and Cpt Elizabeth Knight, then CO.

SPRINGHILL, N.S.—Springhill CC unveils the first sign ever erected outside its corps building. Celebrating the moment are Lts Stephen and Rosalyn Toynton, COs, and members of the corps family.

GRAND BANK, N.L.—During a recent CCM Sunday, retirement certificates and service awards are presented to CCM members at Grand Bank Corps. Front, from left, Gloria Wells (retiring after 15 years), Eric Peach (retiring after 15 years), Evelyn Dicks (retiring after 16 years) and Cecil Dicks (retiring after 16 years). Middle, from left, Beatrice Butler (10-year service award), acting CCMS Winnie Wells (20-year service award), Gertie Bungay (20-year service award), Joanne House (10-year service award) and Myrna Handrigan (20-year service award). Back, from left, Susie Rose (20-year service award); Mjrs Brian and Betty Thomas, COs, Green’s Harbour, N.L., and guest leaders; Jack Cumben (10-year service award); Calvin Foote (10-year service award), colour sergeant; and Mjrs Phyllis Blundell-Colbourne and Reid Colbourne, COs.

hese words form the reply of Jesus to the rich young ruler when this fine young man asked: “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” (see Luke 18:1825). In an age when the divinity of Christ is being challenged, we need to look more closely at our text, for on the surface it would appear that Jesus himself disclaims his deity. Taken by itself, it would seem logical to state that here Jesus said, “I am not God.” However, that which seems logical is not always correct and the remainder of the narrative would indicate that that is true of this statement. Our text is relative to the circumstances, and to the individual to whom it was spoken. In reply to the young man’s question, Jesus cited a number of commandments. “All of these I have kept since I was a boy,” was the ruler’s response. This was highly commendable, of course. However, if time is taken to examine these commandments, you would find they are all social precepts and deal with our relationship with other people. This means that even an atheist could conceivably say this much. Up to this point, the commandments dealing with our relationship to God were not mentioned. When Jesus added, “You still lack one thing,” it is implied there was something marring the young man’s relationship with God. He had set up a substitute “God.” The command to sell everything that he had was a command to smash his idol. Having said this, Jesus did not add, as we might expect, “Serve God,” but rather, “Follow me.” The Master was unwilling to allow words such as “good” to be used of him unless people properly recognized the person to whom they were addressed. If you want true life, you must submit yourself to God. According to this narrative, this is accomplished when we yield to the Lordship of Christ, for “I and the Father are one” (John 10:30). Like so many people, this young man went through life with the idea that goodness is achieved rather than received. The Master had but one challenge: “Follow me.” The word for “follow” (akolouthein) has at least five different, though related, meanings. It is used of a soldier following his captain; the slave accompanying his master; obedience to the laws of a state; the acceptance of advice from a counsellor; the following of a teacher’s line of argument. Thus to follow Christ means yielding everything of body, mind and spirit. In this manner, we can experience that for which the young man was seeking—eternal life. Our text, then, interpreted by its context, reveals the deity of Christ. He did not say, “I am not good,” but rather, “I am God.” Excerpt from It Is Written by General Bramwell H. Tillsley, available at store.salvationarmy.ca, 416-422-6100, orderdesk@can.salvationarmy.org. For the e-book, visit amazon.ca. Salvationist November 2016 29

SALVATION STORIES

The Long Way Home I didn’t want anything to do with God, until I reconnected with an old friend. BY PATRICIA FRANCES DUPRAS

s a child growing up in Kirkland Lake, Ont., reading Bible stories before bed was a nightly ritual. My mother, Frances, had a deep faith in God. When I was six, she passed away from cancer, and although I didn’t understand it at the time, I blamed God for her death. My father worked in a gold mine to support our family of six kids. Life was a struggle, but me and my siblings loved and supported each other. My father’s spirit never recovered from losing his wife, and he became ill from working conditions in the mine. At 11, I was sent to live with siblings, first in Thompson, Man., then Montreal and then back to Kirkland Lake. The loss of my mother and the instability of my childhood turned me against God—I didn’t want anything to do with him. The only time I acknowledged God was to yell at him in tears when one of my brothers died. So when I reconnected with an old friend, 40 years after we had known each other as teens, and found out he was now a Christian, I didn’t know what to think. John was a part-time pastor and also ministered to the lost outside church walls. I had never known a pastor and had no intention of having a relationship with God. We met for coffee a few times and he did talk to me about God. We had good conversations about Scripture and I was surprised to find I wanted to know more. He patiently answered my questions and pointed me to resources to help me understand the Bible. One Saturday afternoon, I was visiting friends in Toronto and arranged to meet John. As we looked for a café, we saw a vulnerable woman leaning against the side of a building, clearly inebriated. It was a busy street, but no one stopped to help. I watched as John gently touched her on the arm and looked into her face. For a moment, the woman was lucid and tears welled in her eyes. She seemed to recognize the comforter, the Holy Spirit, within John. This encounter brought 30 November 2016 Salvationist

Patricia Dupras: “The Salvation Army is the most welcoming and alive church I know”

In the silence, God spoke to me. “I am here with you, Patricia. I have always been here with you.” me tremendous confusion, but it was a turning point in my life. On a sunny summer day in 2013, I was sitting by a quiet lake in southern Ontario, reflecting on my life and my mistakes, feeling very low. As I looked out at the lake, it was sparkling in the sun. Then, in the silence, God spoke to me. “I am here with you, Patricia. I have always been here with you.” That sparkling light and warmth flooded my heart and soul. Tears of joy—tears of a lifetime—flowed down my face, dropping into the water. When I told John about this experience, he prayed over me. I invited Jesus

into my heart and asked him to forgive my sins. After this, I continued studying the Bible but didn’t go to church—it wasn’t my thing. Slowly, my perspective changed, until one Sunday I decided to give it a try. At the last moment, I drove past the church I was planning to attend and went to Kingston Citadel, Ont., where I sat in the last row. I knew The Salvation Army from years of volunteer work—I have helped with Christmas hampers, kettles and a winter warm room. The songs, biblical message and Christian love I found that day drew me in and I never left. I felt like I had arrived at my spiritual home. The Salvation Army is the most welcoming and alive church I know—it has become a refuge in a world of chaos and confusion. My life has been transformed since accepting Jesus. I can do things I was too scared to do before. I feel such peace and love as I pray. I retired from public service recently and I now have the opportunity to do ministry each day. I try to serve God by sharing the good news of his love and studying his Word daily. I’m far from perfect—I’m a work in progress—but I am loved by God.

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