Salvationist June 2017

Army Builds Bridges After Rwandan Genocide

Getting to Zero: Cutting Out Plastic Waste

Conviction and Conversion: Moncton Inmates Redeemed

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

June 2017

Salvationist.ca

Taking Christ to the Streets Joyful Intercessors prepare for their first appointments

CONTENTS

Salvationist June 2017 • Volume 12, Number 6

Departments

20

Halo Project: Measuring Our Community Impact

Battling HIV-AIDS in Papua New Guinea

Daughter Finds Freedom From “Cutting”

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

May 2017

• Why are our tithes and offerings so important? Lt-Colonel Fred Waters has the answer.

• Ryan Seguin didn’t always want to be on the outside looking in.

Faith & Friends May 2017

This Month: Fearfully and Wonderfully Made Majors Owen and Sandra Budden share how their marriage endured the ups and downs of bipolar disorder.

• When it comes to fair trade, we can make a difference with every thoughtful purchase we make, says Lieutenant Kaitlin Adlam.

• In King Arthur: Legend of the Sword, a streetwise gang leader confronts the person he is meant to be.

• And more ...

Kicking the Habit Addiction almost cost Michael Winter his life. Now he helps others in their own battles.

When it comes to raising hooligans and orangutans, Phil Callaway knows two mothers who have it in the bag.

Faith Doing Good Halo Project measures Salvation Army impact on communities.

In Harm’s Way

Just for Kids May 2017

Major Shirley King and her daughter healed their self-inflicted scars, together.

This Month: Find 7 Differences

Help the bee get to the flower

Hi kids!

This Sunday is Mother’s Day. It’s important for us to show our moms how much we love and appreciate them.

They often make our meals, wash our clothes, drive us to school and look after us when we’re sick. Most of all, they love us.

What will you do this week to say thank you to your mom? Check out the list of suggestions in this issue of Just for Kids.

This month on Salvationist.ca, find out how an Australian Salvation Army officer embraced the self-denial appeal (Partners in Mission) in a unique way.

• Learn about the “Helper” Jesus promised His disciples.

• Wish your mom a happy Mother’s Day.

Your friend, Kristin

Visit Salvationist.ca

• Meet Bartimaeus, the blind man who wouldn’t be quiet.

1. Give her a hug (kisses will do, too).

2. Set the table (without being asked).

Put a flower at Mom’s spot.

3. Make a card or poster to show you are glad she’s your mom.

4. Do the dishes or take out the garbage (or both).

5. Tell her you love her.

6. Let her choose her favourite movie or TV program to watch. Don’t interrupt while she watches it.

ISSUE

19

7. Make her a cup of tea or hot chocolate and serve it in her favourite mug.

8. Share some jokes and laugh with her.

9. Put away your toys and clothes (before she asks).

• Find out why Jesus had dinner with unpopular people.

• Plus stories, puzzles, colouring, jokes and more!

10. Give her a break by offering to make her bed. Do a good job.

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

26 People & Places 30 Salvation Stories A Matter of Trust

by Lieutenant Bethany Dueck

Columns

17

Ke e p Connected

Moms Know Best

25 Cross Culture

Jonah’s Connection to Jesus

by General Bramwell H. Tillsley (Rtd)

A Woman Fights Back

BEATING CANCER P.28

faithandfriends.ca

• And more ...

Getting to Zero

by Lieutenant Laura Van Schaick

29 Troublesome Texts

Who’s the Boss?

MOMS KNOW BEST P.22

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

MAY 2017

the Habit ADDICTION ALMOST COST MICHAEL WINTER HIS LIFE. NOW HE HELPS OTHERS IN THEIR OWN BATTLES P.16

• Lieutenant Brad Webster didn’t believe in God. So why was he angry with him?

17 Fresh Ideas

A League of Their Own

by Commissioner Susan McMillan

FAIR TRADE P.8

Kicking

How our marriage endured the ups and downs of a mood disorder

94 and Counting

by Ken Ramstead

9 Onward

Making a Difference

Faith&Friends

This Month:

8 Calling the Courageous

Disciples in the Digital Age

by Geoff Moulton

Ke e p Connected Salvationist May 2017

5 Frontlines

4 Editorial

Salvationist.ca

In Sickness and in Health

Features New lieutenants equipped and mobilized to share the gospel.

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

14 House of Hope

Cover photo: Carson Samson

10 In the Joy of the Lord

A life sentence isn’t the end of the story for three offenders at The Salvation Army’s Greenfield House.

by Kristin Ostensen

Read and share it!

18 The Measure of a Man

Faith&Friends

This Father’s Day, three generations of Salvation Army officers pay tribute to the lasting legacy of Corps Sergeant-Major Bert Vincent.

by Lt-Colonel Wanda Vincent

The End of Lightning?

CARS 3 P.22

A Culinary Dream

MENU FOR LIVING P.12

Unexpected Encounter

HER TWO DADS P.5

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

faithandfriends.ca

JUNE 2017

20 Bridge Builders The Salvation Army is bringing people together in Rwanda.

by Giselle Randall

22 The Red Zone After the genocide in Rwanda, Salvation Army pioneers brought hope in dangerous times.

by Major Hilary Jackson

Finding His Voice RECORDING ARTIST ANTHONY EVANS’ MESSAGE RESONATES BEYOND THE HIT TV SHOW P.16

Salvationist June 2017 3

EDITORIAL

Disciples in the Digital Age

A

s I type these words, thousands of Salvationists across the territory are huddled around their computers anxiously awaiting the news. That’s right … it’s the day of the annual change, when the Army reveals its new appointments for officers. This is the busiest time for traffic on the salvationist.ca website. Last year, the moves page was viewed 37,112 times in one week—the amount we normally get in an entire month. Talk about breaking the Internet. We have to order extra bandwidth to make sure our server doesn’t crash!

Part of the excitement revolves around the Joyful Intercessors, the latest session of cadets, and their first appointments as officers. In this issue of Salvationist, you can read testimonies of how God has called them to sacrificial service (page 10). Next month they will be commissioned at the Mobilize— Newfoundland and Labrador Congress with General André Cox. Let’s remember to pray for them as they take up their duties across the territory. Since an intercessor is someone who intervenes with God on behalf of another, I’m sure that they will be praying for you, too.

Speaking of online excitement, we are pleased to unveil the new salvationist.ca this month. This revamped website gives you all of the great news and

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 and Literary Secretary Giselle Randall Features Editor (416-467-3185) Pamela Richardson News Editor, Copy Editor and Production Co-ordinator (416-422-6112) Kristin Ostensen Associate Editor and Staff Writer 4 June 2017 Salvationist

features you’ve come to love in the magazines, but it also connects you with a wealth of resources from other territorial headquarters departments, including corps ministries, finance, social services, women’s ministries, children and youth, and world missions.

I like to think of it as a “one-stop shop” for all things Army.

The Salvation Army contracted Radiant (thinkradiant.com) for this task.

Radiant is a Christian company based out of London, Ont., that is committed to advancing the gospel. “Our vision is to see this world changed for the glory of God,” says CEO Ray Majoran. “We make it our goal to help churches and ministries reflect the radiance of Christ.”

The name of the company is inspired by Psalm 34:5: “Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed” (ESV).

Not on ly i s t he website faith-based, it’s also functional.

Salvationist.ca is mobile friendly, so you can use it on your phone or tablet. It is also designed to be interactive, a place where you can watch videos, add your comments and, if you are an officer or employee, access the new MyArmy portal.

In case you missed them, the officer appointments can still be

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.

accessed from salvationist.ca’s home page. But make sure you check out everything else the website has to offer.

Like us on Facebook and Instagram and follow us on Twitter. There are many ways to stay connected. Let us know what you think, and how we can make it better. As the digital space evolves, we remain committed to keeping you informed and inspired.

GEOFF MOULTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Subscriptions

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

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

Advertising

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

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

Mission

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

FRONTLINES

Edmonton Program Promotes Literacy

A

new partnership between The Salvation Army and the Edmonton Public Library (EPL) is helping children improve their reading skills.

On Tuesday afternoons, the library’s epl2go Literacy Van visits the After-school Zone program at the Army’s Canon Ridge centre. The van brings books and DVDs for the children to check out, as well as a PlayStation for gaming.

When the program launched earlier this year, it was immediately popular, attracting children and their parents.

Kara, a librarian with the epl2go Literacy Van, explains that the free program is designed to bring the library to areas that need it the most, promoting early literacy, digital literacy and technology. The program usually serves areas that are at least five kilometres from the nearest library branch, but the Canon Ridge program is an exception as the area is seen as high needs.

“Having EPL partner with our After-school Zone program has provided the young people of Canon Ridge the opportunity to explore educational resources that they would not normally have access to,” says Dayna Curtis, community ministries coordinator. “It’s wonderful to see children signing up for library cards so they can sign out books each week to take home.”

Children in need access books through a partnership between the Edmonton Public Library and a Salvation Army after-school program

General André Cox distributes sandals as part of relief efforts after the waste dump disaster in Colombo, Sri Lanka, in April

International Leaders Serve Sri Lanka Disaster Victims

G

eneral André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox, World President of Women’s Ministries, met with survivors of a deadly rubbish dump landslide in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and brought encouragement to relief workers, including police, military and medical personnel. The 90-metre high dump collapsed on Good Friday, destroying 145 homes and killing at least 32 people.

With a team of Salvation Army officers, the General and Commissioner Cox visited the disaster site and a local school that has become a temporary shelter for approximately 200 people who have been left homeless. The couple moved among hundreds of people, bringing their personal greeting and interest to as many as possible. The General also assisted with the distribution of more than 700 pairs of sandals to people who had lost everything.

In an on-site media interview, General Cox assured survivors of The Salvation Army’s ongoing support and encouraged government and relief agencies to work together toward solving the problems created by the dump’s collapse.

Cooler Brings Healthy Choices to French Creek

T

he Salvation Army’s food bank in French Creek, B.C., is giving clients better, healthier options thanks to a new commercial cooler and a partnership with Thrifty Foods. Instead of composting fresh produce and perishable items such as bread, the grocery store now sends these items to the Army.

Trina Jiggins, food bank co-ordinator, originally got the idea for the food reclamation program after hearing about a similar program elsewhere on Vancouver Island. However, when the food bank investigated obtaining a commercial cooler, they

were given a quote of $25,000.

“The unique part of our program is that we built our own 20-by-12-foot cooler using a high-powered air conditioning unit and a coolbot device to regulate the temperature,” says Jiggins. “The one that we constructed, following the Health Board specifications, cost us under $5,000 and it is energy efficient.”

In the first eight months of the cooler’s operation, The Salvation Army was able to repurpose nearly $175,000 of usable produce and dairy.

Salvationist June 2017 5

FRONTLINES

I

Kingston’s Purple Posse Combats Domestic Violence

n partnership with local agencies, Rideau Heights Corps in Kingston, Ont., launched a new initiative to support women in crisis and continue to spread awareness of violence against women.

The Purple Posse is a group of women who came together in 2016, with the support of The Salvation Army and their neighbours, friends and families, to help protect women in the community.

Deb Wood, a teacher at the Army’s literacy program, started the Purple Posse after she noticed many women were absent from class for a time and then struggled upon their return. Some of the women opened up to Wood about their abusive situations.

After speaking with Lieutenant Tina Howard, corps officer, they found an appropriate curriculum from Western University in order to start the Purple Posse program.

“The program offers ways you can help other women without being too personal and examples of how to start a good conversation,” says Wood.

The Purple Posse held an event in March that included information on how to assist those suspected of being abused.

Guest speakers included representatives from a number of local agencies, shelters and Kingston police.

“Educating the community about this issue is important,” says Lieutenant Howard. “People will share what they have learned here.”

An important part of the program is the Purple Posse “safety card.”

“The Western University program came with pamphlets

Deb Wood and Sarah Wilson show off the Purple Posse safety cards

to hand out, but Sarah Wilson, a member of the Purple Posse, pointed out that women couldn’t keep those pamphlets lying around at home,” explains Wood. “They need something they can hide in a sock or pocket to use when needed.”

Wilson, who is also a survivor of domestic violence, decided to put the contact information of local agencies and police on a small business card. The safety cards are available at Rideau Heights Corps, many supportive agencies and local businesses in Kingston.

“I hope women know The Salvation Army cares for them and that it’s a safe place to go,” says Lieutenant Howard.

Emergency Disaster Services Mobilize in Halifax

O

ne hundred years following The Salvation Army’s first disaster response in Canada, the Halifax explosion, 130 personnel from across the Canada and Bermuda Territory convened in Halifax to attend Mobilize 2017, an emergency disaster services (EDS) conference, in April.

Mobilize 2017 opened with a preconference leadership forum attended by 38 key personnel representing all nine divisions. The forum covered topics such

as marketing and communications, volunteer management, fundraising and government relations as they relate to EDS. Trained professional instructors from across the territory provided training from the National Disaster Training Program, some of which was offered for the first time in Canada. In addition, Mobilize 2017 delegates were inspired by keynote speakers Major Stephen Hibbs, corps officer in Fort McMurray, Alta.,

Mobilize 2017 delegates visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic

6 June 2017 Salvationist

and Jean-Michel Blais, chief of Halifax Regional Police and chair of the Army’s advisory board in Halifax.

Delegates also had the opportunity to visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to acknowledge the 100th anniversary of EDS in Canada, as well as to recognize Aubrey Vincent, divisional emergency and disaster services director, Newfoundland and Labrador Division, and Andrew Wilson, former divisional emergency disaster services co-ordinator, Maritime Division, for their contributions to EDS in the territory.

“The theme Mobilize was chosen because it describes preparing something, or someone, to spring into action or to be put into use,” says Perron Goodyear, territorial emergency disaster services director. “That describes perfectly the vital work of our EDS personnel and it also shares the vision of our territorial strategic priorities.”

FRONTLINES

Kenora Store Reopens After Major Renovations

Children and Youth Paint the Future

Y

oung Salvationists across the territory were “painting the future” in March, with a weekend of events aimed to mobilize Canada and Bermuda’s children and youth.

A package of resources went out to every corps, with suggested artistic activities, as well as paint-themed games, food, prayers and spiritual lessons. The weekend was part of a global Salvation Army youth focus, called Mobilise: Go Children and Youth, under the banner of The Whole World Mobilising campaign.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony reopens the Kenora thrift store and community and family services office

T

he Salvation Army thrift store and community and family services office in Kenora, Ont., reopened earlier this year after extensive renovations were completed.

Staff and community members celebrated the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Mayor David Canfield, followed by coffee, cake and shopping.

“This has been a long time coming, and we are excited to finally have these upgrades finished and open our doors again,” says Sandra Poole, business manager. “We have a wonderful relationship with the residents of Kenora, and this was a crucial step in ensuring that we can continue to provide a high standard of service.”

“Economical access to clothing, footwear, household items and food is critical in our community and The Salvation Army provides this service that is in high demand throughout the various seasons,” Mayor Canfield wrote in a letter of support that helped The Salvation Army acquire the necessary funding. “The various programs and services offered at this facility provide invaluable opportunities to those in need.”

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Young women at Toronto’s Cedarbrae CC learn how to paint in the Cubist style

Children tie-dye T-shirts at Kelowna CC, B.C.

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Contact (416) 422-6119; circulation@can.salvationarmy.org or visit salvationist.ca/subscribe to order Salvationist June 2017 7

CALLING THE COURAGEOUS

94 and Counting High River’s oldest soldier shows no signs of slowing down.

BY KEN RAMSTEAD

T

his month, The Salvation Army’s Foothills Church in High River, Alta., will celebrate its 110th anniversary. Proudly in attendance will be 94-year-old Edith Burke, Foothills’ oldest soldier and one of the territory’s oldest living uniformed Salvationists.

“This past May marked 71 years that I have been with The Salvation Army in High River,” Burke says proudly. “I’ve been with the home league for 42 of those years, and I have a life membership certificate to show for it!”

“Edith has been around forever,” confirms Lieutenant Kelly Fifield, corps officer. “She’s been with the Army through floods and fires, countless officer changes and multiple buildings. Edith is full of wisdom and knowledge, so as we celebrate our corps anniversary, we’ll also be celebrating her soldiership and her support of The Salvation Army.”

The Way to High River Burke was born in Whitewood, Sask., and in 1922, her family moved to Kimberley, B.C., where her father worked in the mines. “He then decided to homestead way up in northern Alberta, so we lived up there for 12 years.”

He died in 1930 and her mother remarried 10 years later. “My stepfather joined the Canadian Army in the Second World War and we moved to Calgary,” says Burke. “I was working by then, so when my dad returned from overseas and my family decided to move to High River, I stayed in Calgary for a time. But at the end of May 1946, I joined them in High River.”

By that time, her mother was attending the corps there, but this was not Burke’s first experience with The Salvation Army.

“During the war, my mother, sister, brother and I used to walk down Eighth Avenue to the CPR station,” she says.

“The Salvation Army band would perform there every Saturday night. My mom was so taken with them that when the family moved to High River, she 8 June 2017 Salvationist

“Becoming a soldier was the right thing to do,” says Edith Burke

started attending the services.”

A month after her move, Burke decided to join her mother.

“The church was in a really old twostorey building,” she remembers. “The officers’ quarters were upstairs and there was no plumbing!”

Burke soon became involved in the life of the corps, helping the home league with their bake sales and pie socials and manning the kettles at Christmastime.

Burke completed 13 Christmas kettle shifts last season.

Why Not Now? “I always liked The Salvation Army and admired all that they did,” Burke says.

“While I quickly became an adherent, I didn’t become a soldier for quite a few years after I started attending.”

“Quite a few years” translates into 38! She became a soldier in April 1984.

Why so long to make up her mind?

“I wanted to get to know how The

Salvation Army worked and how they ran things and everything that went with it before I committed myself to be a soldier,” she replies. “I decided to keep doing what I was doing until I made up my mind.”

So matters stood until 1983 when some new officers joined the corps. “I talked to them and decided that now was the time,” Burke says. “Why not now?

I asked myself. In truth, I should have joined years before. Becoming a soldier was the right thing to do.”

Even though it was decades ago, Burke still remembers how she felt when she signed the Soldier’s Covenant. “It was wonderful because I was helping to do the Lord’s work and I was helping people who were in need.”

Still as active as ever in the corps, Burke continues to faithfully man the kettles, completing 13 shifts this past season.

“I still love The Salvation Army and I hardly ever miss going to church,” Burke says. “I really am proud of the work I’ve done and I thank God every day that he has given me my health so that I can carry on and do the kettles. I hope I’m given a few more years so I can continue helping out at Christmas.”

A League of Their Own Making a difference in the lives of women in Canada and Bermuda, and around the world.

BY COMMISSIONER SUSAN McMILLAN

M

y mother’s passion as a corps officer was the home league, and I grew up seeing how vital this ministry was in the life of the corps, as a way to reach out to the community. The annual tea and sale was always a huge event, and I was happy to serve tables and wash dishes. As a teenager, I was part of the junior miss home league, and it was an important part of my development as a young woman.

Today, home league remains the cornerstone of women’s ministries, but often goes by different names. We have the freedom to branch out into all kinds of activities and programs, tailored to the needs of a particular community— from cooking classes to ESL clubs, fitness programs to support circles, discussion groups to Babysong. We are limited only by our imaginations!

In The Salvation Army, women’s ministries are built on four pillars: education, service, fellowship and worship. The mission is to: •• bring women into a knowledge of Jesus Christ; •• encourage their full potential in influencing family, friends and community; •• equip them for growth in personal understanding and in life skills; •• address issues that affect women and their families in their world.

Women’s ministries have tremendous potential to reach women and

their families with the message of the gospel—one of our territorial strategic priorities. Here are some of the ways that women’s ministries are making a difference across the territory: •• In Edmonton, Crossroads Community Church is definitely thinking outside the box. Like the old-time “slum sisters,” members of the women’s ministries programs are reaching out to abused women and women in the sex trade. Over the past six months, they have seen nine women give their hearts to Jesus.

•• An increasing number of corps are co-ordinating their children’s and women’s programs so mothers can attend. In Summerside, P.E.I., both women’s and men’s programs occur at the same time, and they come together for refreshments at the end.

•• In Burlington, Ont., an exercise program for women has invited young people to join in after their band practice. As two generations come together, there is rich fellowship and encouragement for a healthy lifestyle.

•• The corps in Gander, N.L., has adopted “Embrace,” a small-group fellowship and discussion program.

•• More and more women’s ministries groups are integrating their programs with community and social services programs. At the Centre of Hope in Halifax, a women’s “take-

a-break” group is proving successful, and a creative sewing group is providing opportunities for fellowship and creativity.

•• In Hamilton, Bermuda, the North Street Citadel women’s group serves the Army’s homeless shelter by providing toiletries, bedding, curtains, clothing and suitcases.

•• A “Dorcas” group in White Rock, B.C., makes slippers for community and family services to distribute at Christmas, and serves refreshments to people waiting for the food bank.

•• In Sudbury, Ont., a weekly “crafternoon” is held in the family services/ thrift store location as an outreach to women in the community.

•• In many corps, spiritual formation programs for women are feeding a hunger for a deeper knowledge of Scripture.

•• With the large influx of refugees to Canada, we are seeking ways to offer friendship and support to women who have been through terrible experiences.

As well as reaching out to women in Canada and Bermuda, our women’s ministries programs are making a difference in the lives of women around the world.

Groups are coming together in support of Others—Trade for Hope, a social enterprise that creates employment opportunities for women in developing countries.

Contact your corps officer to learn more and arrange an event in your area.

Every year, women’s ministries raises funds for an overseas project. In 20142015, we provided funding for a program in the South America East Territory that supports women and children who have been victims of domestic violence. I recently received a report that spoke of the remarkable impact it is having.

More than ever before, women’s ministries programs are relevant and helpful, and I pray that many women will discover the secret of abundant life in Christ through them.

Commissioner Susan McMillan is the territorial commander of the Canada and Bermuda Territory. Follow her at facebook.com/ susanmcmillantc and twitter.com/ salvationarmytc.

Salvationist June 2017 9

Photo: © Rawpixel/iStock.com

ONWARD

In the Joy of the

Lord

O

n July 1, the cadets of the Joyful Intercessors Session will be commissioned and ordained as Salvation Army officers. As they prepare for a new chapter in their ministry, these 19 Salvationists share their journey to officership.

Principal’s Commendation On behalf of the College for Officer Training (CFOT) staff, it is a pleasure to present to you this year’s session, the Joyful Intercessors, who are to be ordained and commissioned as officers of The Salvation Army.

In keeping with their names, graduating sessions take upon themselves an identity of their own. What better assignment than to be commissioned with the task of ministering joy on Christ’s behalf. As C.S. Lewis has said, “Joy is the serious business of heaven.” Hallelujah!

As we commission these Joyful Intercessors, we also give thanks to the Lord for the partnership of intercessors from across this great territory. Intercessors who have encouraged 10 June 2017 Salvationist

Salvationists to accept this important calling to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. Intercessors who have faithfully prayed for workers to be sent into the harvest fields. Intercessors in home congregations who have represented the joy of following Jesus and helped make possible this occasion for celebration.

Most of all, we give thanks for the promises offered by God’s Son, Jesus Christ, which will faithfully accompany the lieutenants in the journey ahead. “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete” (John 15:11).

Major David Allen Principal, CFOT

Photos: Carson Samson

New lieutenants equipped and mobilized to share the gospel.

Cadet Cathy Allen The most important thing I learned at CFOT is that I am not too old to be an officer! I have learned to wait and rest in God, to have faith that I can do anything with God because he has gone before me and planned my future.

Most importantly, I have learned that God is continually moulding and forming me into who he wants me to be. My hope for our first appointment is that we will have many opportunities to develop new relationships and build the kingdom for God’s glory.

Cadet Scott Allen God had been calling me to officership for years, but I was not listening. Fortunately, he didn’t let go of me, and through various people in my life, books I read and a mission trip, God’s calling became clear and I responded. At CFOT, I learned that I cannot do this in my strength alone, but I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. In our first appointment, my hope is to embrace the community with the love of Jesus, serve the people and love our congregation wholeheartedly.

Cadet Daniel Kelly I always had an idea of what I wanted to be when I grew up, and becoming an officer wasn’t on my radar. God placed that calling on my heart a few times and I kept dismissing it, until he gave me a vision of myself preaching on a platform. That led me to CFOT, where my life has been transformed.

Through many placements as a cadet, I have come to understand that God has called me to love people and make his kingdom known in every place I go.

Cadet Courtney Kelly I first felt called to officership around the age of 10. That calling was confirmed when I was 16 during the Raised Up World Youth Conference in Sweden, and then reaffirmed during an evening service at my home corps in Triton, N.L. It is incredible where God can lead you if you let him. I’ve learned that when you are obedient to God, he pours out his blessings on you. As new officers, we look forward to diving into the community, meeting needs and spreading the love of Jesus.

Cadet Geoff Butt On our summer assignment in Moncton, N.B., we saw integrated mission at its finest, particularly at Greenfield House, The Salvation Army’s corrections residence. The clients were treated with kindness as they were beginning to reintegrate into society, and the corps’ involvement was restorative, caring for both the minds and souls of these men. The most important thing I learned at CFOT was how to build trusting relationships that are genuine and Christ-focused. As a new lieutenant, I look forward to getting back to the mission field and preaching the gospel for all to hear.

Cadet Dawn Butt My calling to officership came when I was 16, and although the journey took longer than I expected, it happened when God saw that the timing was right. One of my most memorable experiences as a cadet was connecting with people in Moncton, N.B. The Army runs a breakfast program for adults, and it was a privilege to have meaningful conversations with those who came in and hear their life stories. You can’t always judge someone from their appearance—we learn that as children but sometimes forget as adults.

Cadet Sabrina Silvey I grew up attending The Salvation Army and knew at a young age that God was calling me to officership. I am an evangelist—I love talking about the gospel. However, I had several placements where I needed to find a way to be an evangelist without words.

In these experiences, God brought me out of my comfort zone and this enabled me to grow and stretch in him. At CFOT, I learned that if we go into situations looking only through our eyes, we can feel defeated before we start the task. But if God is our vision, we will be open to seeing him work through the situations.

Salvationist June 2017 11

Cadet Jennifer Henson From a young age I was captured by God’s deep love and grew up watching my parents share his love and practical help with others.

This inspired me to spend my life experiencing and sharing God’s love as well.

The most memorable part of my CFOT experience was all the people I met and learned from. From inmates to my sessionmates, from congregants to community members, I have seen the beautifully creative work of God in his people. We love the journey that God is taking us on and can hardly wait to begin our first appointment.

Cadet Robert Henson My most meaningful placement was at the Ethics Centre in Winnipeg. Through Jim Read, Aimee Patterson, Sharon Jones-Ryan and the individuals who make up the social issues committee, I was inspired to work for justice and equality in our world by living my life as a committed follower of Christ.

In particular, I am tremendously thankful for the introduction to Indigenous people, their beliefs and culture. I hope that I will continue to serve as an ally alongside my Indigenous neighbours so that healing can take place and we can work together to become the treaty people we were meant to be.

Cadet Johnny Valencia Since I was a child, I had a yearning to serve the Lord. In fact, I used to play church with my siblings and cousins, and I was always the preacher. During my journey to officership, I was fortunate to have a summer assignment at Jackson’s Point Camp, Ont., where I was humbled to see a huge number of children dedicate their lives to God. CFOT has helped me to discover who I really am; though I am imperfect, I know that God can use my imperfection for his glory.

Cadet Carolina Valencia When I was living in the United States, I met a couple of retired Salvation Army officers who introduced me to the Army and told me that I would become an officer one day. After we moved to Canada, my cousins, then Aux-Captains Fabio and Angelica Correa, invited us to attend the Army and we became senior soldiers, clearly knowing that officership was our calling since day one. I celebrate God’s grace in my life as I look back and see that it is only through him that I was able to come to Canada and train to be a Salvation Army officer.

12 June 2017 Salvationist

Cadet Donna Ludlow God spoke to me at a young age and I knew without a doubt that he was calling me to full-time ministry as an officer. I am grateful for what I have learned at each of my placements.

The greatest blessing has been to see God’s love at work in each place. During the last two years of training, God has reminded me over and over again of his faithfulness. He has carried me through, giving me the right things at the right time. I feel honoured to be called to serve God, alongside my family, as an officer.

Cadet Joseph Ludlow At CFOT, I learned the importance of community. To be surrounded by people with whom you can share your accomplishments and failures has been a great blessing. One of the most memorable experiences I had during training was welcoming refugees at the Winnipeg airport. To see the love of God put into action, and to see their faces and feel the joy along with them, will stay in my heart and mind forever. Being a Salvation Army officer is a privilege and I am excited to see God’s work being done through his people.

Cadet Dave McFadden After 20 years in engineering, I was struggling with a lack of fulfilment in my career. I wanted to do something that would make a positive difference in the lives of others. I asked God for direction and he made it clear that officership was what he had in mind. Through our placements, we got to experience a broad range of ministries with some amazing and inspiring people. It was encouraging to see how God is working in so many different ways as people put their trust in him and bring his grace and presence to those around them.

Cadet Shelley Oseil Participating in the men’s Bible study at the Waterson Centre in Regina was a moving experience for me. Seeing the men open up about themselves and who they wanted to be with God’s help was humbling and inspiring. I am grateful to those men and was touched by their honesty. I realized that being an officer isn’t just about leading, but investing in and celebrating the lives of people, wherever they are at. We have a responsibility to walk with one other and care for each other in all areas of our lives.

That’s what community is all about.

Cadet Renée McFadden In our placements, we ministered with excellent officers and broadened our understanding of the diverse roles we were preparing for. This included ministry with Indigenous and multicultural families, providing spiritual care in a hospital setting, building inclusive faith communities for people with disabilities, participating in an Alpha course and engaging children in camping ministry. I look forward to seeing where God is already at work among the people in our new community and how we can join them in faith and service.

Cadet Connie Cristall I believe that God was calling me to full-time ministry long before I acknowledged him. I had been working with hard-tohouse individuals in downtown Edmonton for a number of years as a non-believer when I felt that these people needed more than just housing and food; they needed hope. It was not until I moved to Kelowna, B.C., with my husband a few years later that I came to know Christ. I attended seminary and became the pastor of a church in Kelowna, but my heart was always with those beyond the church’s walls. I left that church and started working at The Salvation Army.

Immediately I felt that I had finally found the place I was meant to be.

My passions, ministry philosophy and calling completely lined up with the Army, and I knew that God wanted me to be an officer.

Cadet Chad Cole I am a third-generation officer from a family that is heavily involved in ministry, yet I never thought that I would become an officer—I had other plans. But God showed me that there is nothing more rewarding than serving him, and I needed to do my part in his kingdom. At CFOT, I realized how much I don’t know! The courses broadened my vision and challenged concepts I held. I am now able to explore the Bible in ways I never could before. I can’t wait to serve God in full-time ministry.

Cadet Lisa Cole My husband and I had the opportunity to go to Labrador City, N.L., for our first winter assignment. The corps officers, Lieutenants Norman and Crystal Porter, were a fantastic example of a young couple in officership. They encouraged us to ask them questions and they gave us great advice. Our second winter assignment took us to Germany, which was an amazing experience. We learned how The Salvation Army operates in another country, and how God’s love truly transcends language and cultural barriers.

Salvationist June 2017 13

House of Hope

A life sentence isn’t the end of the story for three offenders at The Salvation Army’s Greenfield House.

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BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN

fter serving 23 years in prison on a charge of firstdegree murder, Wade has a list of “firsts” waiting to be checked off when he completes his sentence: Go to a hockey game. Get a cellphone. Learn to drive. Go bowling.

Wade was first incarcerated as a young offender at 13 and has spent his entire adult life in jail. Now 43, he sits across the table from me at Greenfield House, a Salvation Army corrections residence in Moncton, N.B., ready to put that life behind him. “There’s a little bit of apprehension, but I’m not scared of getting out; I’m looking forward to it,” he says. “And I think that with help, with a place like this, I can’t be anything but successful.”

14 June 2017 Salvationist

“As soon as I walked in the door, I knew that this was where I was supposed to be,” says Wade, on community service at Greenfield House

was recently increased to five days while Greenfield’s full-time cook is on leave.

“As soon as I walked in the door, I knew that this was where I was supposed to be at this point in my life,” Wade says.

“The relationship you have with the CSC (Correctional Service Canada) is impersonal—they don’t want to get to know you, it’s more hands off. But here, everyone’s asking, ‘How are you doing?

How’s your day? Do you want to talk?’

It’s surreal. All the lifers I know who have taken the program are blown away by the atmosphere here. It’s like, finally, somebody actually cares.”

Before coming to Greenfield, Wade was used to being judged by his long record.

“When I first met Alex, I said, ‘Look, I know my file reads like crap.’ And he said, ‘Hold on a second.’ He pulled out a blank piece of paper, held it up and said, ‘This is your file with us,’ ” Wade recalls. “He said, ‘This file means we give

everybody an opportunity,’ and that’s never happened to me before.”

Wade is determined to make the most of it. When we meet, he has just finished preparing a light lunch for the residents—coleslaw, fresh-cut veggies, lunch meat and cheese. Staff and residents eat in the dining room together, chatting like friends. For dessert, there are chocolate meringue squares. “They’re really easy to make,” Wade smiles proudly, showing me the recipe.

Laid back and approachable, Wade is a long way from the violent offender he once was. For this change, he credits the psychological help he’s received in prison and Positive Lifestyles, which is led by Vincent Farrell, Greenfield’s chaplain.

“A lot of it comes down to Vince, the way he delivers the program,” Wade says.

“Even though I’ve taken it twice, and I’m scheduled to take it again, I learn something different every time. It’s about how we’re all emotional people and it’s

Photos: Kristin Ostensen

This is Wade Located on the corner of a quiet street in Moncton, Greenfield is an unassuming facility, comprised of two yellow threestorey homes connected by a pedway.

With 26 beds—22 for men and four for women—the house has quietly facilitated the reintegration of offenders since 1987.

“One of the best testimonies we have is that nobody knows we exist,” says Alex Greening, executive director, who has been with the house since 2001. “We’re serious about what we do.”

Greenfield may keep a low profile in the Moncton community, but it is well known among offenders.

“Guys are literally beating down the doors of their parole officers trying to take their program,” says Wade, referring to Greenfield’s Positive Lifestyles group for “lifers”—inmates serving a life sentence—which takes place at the house on Tuesdays (see box).

Wade was one of those guys. He has taken the Positive Lifestyles program twice—first in prison and then at Greenfield. From there, he started doing community service at Greenfield, helping in the kitchen two days a week, which

true—our emotions dictate every aspect of our life.”

This focus on emotional development is crucial, Greening says, especially for lifers who have suppressed their feelings for years. “They wear a ‘con code’ armour—they can’t show love, fear or loneliness,” he says. “That becomes normal and natural to them, and it’s hard to adjust after prison.”

When Wade is eventually granted day parole, he hopes he will be assigned a bed at Greenfield. “When I applied for community service, I wasn’t familiar with The Salvation Army’s halfway house,” he says. “It’s by the grace of God that I ended up here.”

This is Derrick It was March 28, 1994. Derrick remembers the night in bits and pieces, his memories obscured by drugs and alcohol. It was the night his mother’s fiancé died; the night he became responsible for second-degree murder. “I miss him very much,” he says, his soft voice full of emotion. “I wish I could take it all back, but I just can’t.”

Derrick has been living at Greenfield House since October 2015, while he is on day parole. As with Wade, he first came

Positive Lifestyles Led by Vincent Farrell, chaplain, Positive Lifestyles is offered on a weekly basis at Greenfield House, Southeast Regional Correctional Centre (Shediac, N.B.) and Dorchester Penitentiary.

Positive Lifestyles is a nine-session support group to help offenders develop life skills that will equip them for reintegration following their release from prison. The sessions are divided into three components: selfesteem, stress and anger (emotional component); mental fitness, loneliness and dealing with crisis and grief (perceptional component); and problem solving and goal setting, conflict resolution and addiction (action component).

With a discussion group format, Positive Lifestyles helps offenders take a deep look at their lives, understand themselves, find positive ways to deal with stresses and issues, and build relationships within the group.

Derrick and Alex Greening relax on the front porch at Greenfield

to Greenfield to do community service in the kitchen. But he has known Farrell much longer.

His journey to Greenfield began at Dorchester Penitentiary, N.B., in 2006, when he was called up to the prison’s chapel one day. He didn’t know who called him or why, and was pleasantly surprised to find Farrell waiting for him.

“We hit it off pretty good and then every time that he was in, he came to see me,” says Derrick.

“When I first met him, he never thought he’d get out,” Farrell recalls.

“He was doing OK inside—not getting into any major trouble—but if he’d kept on the road he was on, he wouldn’t be where he is today.”

“They classified me as ‘institutionalized’ the first week I got in because I shut the outside world out. It didn’t exist to me anymore,” says Derrick. “My mental state was all over the place.”

This response to imprisonment is

common—and difficult to overcome.

“Especially with guys in situations where life has been lost—you lose yourself,” Farrell says, “and once you lose yourself, anything is possible.”

The key to overcoming institutionalization, he notes, is building relationships and changing the offender’s perception over time. “It’s coming alongside and listening, being consistent, having patience.

Once the perception is changed, then the emotions will change and the actions will change after.”

“Vince would say, ‘You’re doing good.

Keep doing what you’re doing. Stay positive. Keep going to the chapel,’ ” Derrick recalls. “He was so encouraging. He put hope in my heart.”

Between his relationship with Farrell and his three years of community service and work release at Greenfield, Derrick felt confident coming to the house on day parole. “It gave me time to get used to the place, to understand how everything works,” he says. “If they had put me out here without that, I probably would have ended up going back.”

Since his release, Derrick has found a full-time job at a bakery and started attending the Army’s Moncton Citadel Community Church, at the invitation of another Greenfield resident. As at Greenfield, Derrick immediately felt welcomed as part of the corps family.

“Majors Leigh and Vida Ryan, the corps officers, are just like a brother and sister to me,” he smiles. “It’s a hug and a handshake every time I go to church.

Coming alongside, listening and building relationships are essential when helping offenders transition back into society after incarceration, says Vincent Farrell

Salvationist June 2017 15

Albert was once a resident at Greenfield. Now, he and his wife, Debbie, both work there

“They’re willing to give, to love, to share. No matter what situation a person is in, they’ll help him out,” Derrick continues. “That’s my church. I love The Salvation Army.”

Though Greenfield House and its employees are not allowed to proselytize because of government regulations, Greening knows that their faith sets them apart. “We don’t promote our faith; we live it.”

The house holds a short prayer meeting every morning at 8:30, bringing up to a dozen residents and staff together in the common room. On the morning I visit, some residents hover nearby, listening quietly in the dining room.

“They don’t have to participate, but they’re respectful, and that’s a good sign,” says Greening.

Becoming a Christian has helped Derrick leave the “con code” behind.

“Years ago, if somebody had slapped me on one cheek, I would have slapped them on two cheeks,” he says. “I don’t do that anymore. I try to do unto others as I would want them to do unto me. That’s what the Bible says.”

It also gives him confidence about his future. “Putting my trust in the Lord and the right people got me to where I am today,” Derrick says. “I used to listen to the wrong people; now I listen to people like Alex and Vince, who have my best interest at heart.

“I don’t worry too much about things anymore,” he concludes. “I just leave it in God’s hands.”

This is Albert As Greening leads me to the third floor of the men’s residence during our tour of Greenfield, I can smell fresh paint.

“Well, I can tell where Albert’s working 16 June 2017 Salvationist

today,” Greening smiles.

A former Greenfield resident, Albert is now The Salvation Army’s resident handyman. He is at Greenfield most weekdays, along with his wife, Debbie, who studied criminology and has been working there for about five years. “She’s a good worker and she loves it here,” Albert says proudly.

He lived at Greenfield for a year after spending 19 years in prison on a life sentence, but he and Greening go back much further. They met at Dorchester in 1989 and have stayed in touch since. Before Albert was released to Greenfield on day parole in 1999, he spent a year working at Greening’s photography business on community service. “Alex and his wife, Sheila, took me under their wing, big time,” he says.

Working for Greening was an important step in the reintegration process for Albert, who grew up in a fishing village in Newfoundland and Labrador. With

roughly 72,000 residents, Moncton was a big change for him. “The best part was that I got permission to go out shopping with Sheila,” Albert remembers. “I got to see the town and got to know my way around.”

Along with the Greenings, Albert has a long list of people he remembers with gratitude for their support during and after his incarceration—the three preachers from his mother’s church who helped him reconnect with his faith, the Mennonite pastor who assisted him and Debbie in countless ways, the schoolteacher who taught him how to read, the corrections officer who helped him get on the path to parole.

Understanding the challenges lifers face, Albert does what he can to help.

Five years ago, for example, he was instrumental in organizing transportation for inmates to attend the Army’s Monday night Bible study. “I had some lifers that I wanted to bring out to a Bible study at a church, but I needed a connection on the street. I asked Major Leigh, ‘Are you it?’ And he said, ‘I’m right on board.’ ” A lber t a l so employ s one of Greenfield’s residents part time, and as his handyman business grows, he would like to eventually employ a lifer full time.

As he comes up on 20 years since he was released to Greenfield, Albert appreciates the support the Army provides to offenders like him. “Alex does good here, and I can’t say enough about Majors Leigh and Vida,” he says. “Greenfield, the corps—it’s all one to me. They all work together, and I’m glad I’ve had a chance to be a part of it and help out where I can.”

The Greenfield Connection In 1948, my family immigrated from Newfoundland to Canada, settling in Moncton, N.B., when our money ran out. The Salvation Army heard about our situation, and a young couple came to our assistance. They brought us food and made sure we had shelter.

They were there for us at that critical time of our life. Over the course of time, we developed a relationship with them and we started attending the Army.

Five years after I started this job at Greenfield House, my sister came to me and said, “Did you know you were meant to be there?” She went on to tell me that the young couple who helped our family get on our feet all those years ago were Mr. and Mrs. Greenfield. This house was named in their honour. Being a man of faith, I believe there’s no such thing as coincidence. God put them there, at that moment in time, to help us, knowing that someday I’d be the executive director here. That’s why Greenfield House has such a special place in my heart.

—Alex Greening

FRESH IDEAS

Getting to Zero Why I called it quits with plastic.

BY LIEUTENANT LAURA VAN SCHAICK

Photo: Lieutenant Stefan Van Schaick

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n a cold Tuesday evening in February, I approached my local Bulk Barn in Prince Albert, Sask., ready to try something new. I took with me not only fabric shopping bags, which have become almost common over the past few years, but also a selection of empty Tupperware containers and glass Mason jars. With the introduction of Bulk Barn’s reusable container program, I was ready to go on my first zero-waste shopping trip.

The program is simple: bring in a clean, empty container, ask the cashier to weigh it, then fill it from the bulk food bins. At checkout, the cashier will deduct the weight of the container from your purchase price. I was excited to give it a try.

The cashier seemed a bit more reluctant than I was, eyeing me with trepidation as I approached the till and pulled out my assortment of reusable containers. He confessed that I was the first to make use of this new program, despite it being five days since the program launched nationally.

With help from the shift supervisor, he weighed my containers, wrote the weight on tiny yellow tags and sent me shopping. I left with flour, quinoa, pasta, nuts—all of the dry goods my family needed—without using a single piece of waste packaging.

Most disposable food packaging is plastic. From bags of pasta to produce bags and even plastic-lined paper bags for flour, our shopping habits are saturated with plastic. But the truth is our earth simply cannot absorb this much plastic.

The Plastic Pollution Coalition warns that if we don’t change our habits, the ocean will contain more plastic than fish by weight by 2050. Our plasticsaturated lives are creating a plasticsaturated earth.

Scripture reminds us that God’s “greatness is seen in all the world!” (Psalm 8:1 GNT). The pristine snow-capped mountains of the Rockies, the living skies of the prairies, the sun reflecting off ocean waters—all of these demon-

Lt Laura Van Schaick brings her own containers to Bulk Barn to cut down on disposable plastic packaging

strate how great our Creator God is. But the psalmist continues by emphasizing that God entrusted us with caring for this beautiful creation: “You appointed [people] rulers over everything you made; you placed them over all creation” (Psalm 8:6 GNT).

When we don’t care for God’s creation, we are not living as God intended.

When we soil the earth with plastic packaging each time we shop, we are not only spoiling God’s beautiful handiwork, but we are also putting ourselves at risk. The more plastic that enters our environment, the greater our exposure to toxic chemicals that can cause a host of health challenges. It is not what God has intended for us. When we don’t care for God’s creation, we are living outside of his will for our lives.

Old habits die hard, and it may be difficult to cut plastic use out of our lives entirely, but we can modify our shopping habits with a few simple changes.

1. B ring along fabric shopping bags whenever you hit the store. You can even buy fabric bags that are made of recycled plastic water bottles!

2. R eusable produce bags are also

available. These lightweight, mesh bags are perfect for fruits and veggies sold by the pound.

3. Make use of Bulk Barn’s reusable container program. There are other local stores that also allow you to bring your own reusable containers from home, such as Zero Waste Market in Vancouver and Loco in Montreal. A quick Google search may guide you to other zerowaste stores in your area.

4. B e prepared to refuse items based on packaging. This may be the hardest change to make, but learning to say no to the item on a plastic-wrapped Styrofoam tray or a processed food that comes in plastic packaging may just be one of the best things you can do for God’s creation.

While I may have been the first to make use of the reusable container program in Prince Albert, I hope I’m not the last.

Lieutenant Laura Van Schaick is the corps officer at The Salvation Army, A Community Church, in Prince Albert, Sask.

Salvationist June 2017 17

The Measure of a Man

This Father’s Day, three generations of Salvation Army officers pay tribute to the lasting legacy of Corps Sergeant-Major Bert Vincent.

BY LT-COLONEL WANDA VINCENT “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely.”—Proverbs 10:9

H

ow do you measure influence? Is it tangible or theoretical? In my opinion, it is measured by visibly changed lives, especially when they span family and community, generations and geography. My father-in-law, Bert Vincent, had this kind of influence. From within the family circle and beyond, his legacy is one of evangelism, encouragement, passion and prayer. He inspired many to be active in the kingdom of God. For many years, Bert worked as a cook in remote Newfoundland logging camps. It required long hours of hard work, with limited culinary equipment, but his cooking and baking skills were renowned.

Dwight Ball, premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, recalls visiting his uncles at Bowaters Logging Company in the 1970s, and hearing about the incredible reputation of the cook. He describes Bert as a man who loved his family and his vocation, but it was his faith that was outstanding.

“Bert was a man with a consistently broad smile, a kind heart and a strong witness of faith,” says Premier Ball. “He was a man who walked the walk—his actions spoke louder than words, and that says a lot because he loved a good chat.”

Passion and Compassion Growing up in Triton, N.L., a rural outport town, Bert’s life was deeply shaped by his mother’s faith. In the spring of 1953, he and his father shared the joy of coming to Christ, and kneeled together at the mercy seat in the old Salvation Army citadel on Gravel Hill. This propelled Bert to a lifetime of spiritual growth and service.

In 1957, he was commissioned as the corps sergeant-major (CSM), a role he 18 June 2017 Salvationist

Bert Vincent was the CSM at the corps in Triton, N.L., for 30 years

held for the next 30 years. Along with the traditional CSM duties on Sunday, he accompanied many corps officers in their visitation ministry during the week, and made countless phone calls to Salvationists and others in the community who needed pastoral care.

He always seemed alert to human need and ready to respond. On one occasion, a young man in the community tragically drowned, and Bert was among the first to visit the family and provide spiritual support.

Many others were the recipients of this compassion, including a young mother named Valerie, who was battling cancer. When Valerie’s medical condition progressed to needing a stem cell transplant in Halifax, the man she knew as Uncle Bert called her every day at noon for seven weeks while she was hospitalized.

“He provided me with such heartfelt encouragement as I fought for my life,”

she says. “He prayed with me and my husband every day over the telephone.

He is a man we miss greatly in our town and our church.”

Bert also motivated others to serve God faithfully, even during times of personal struggle. One friend, Milton Fudge, remembers the impact he made on his life.

When Fudge moved to Triton in 2011, he was battling a serious illness. Bert immediately came alongside him with prayer and concern for his physical wellness, but at the same time, he encouraged Fudge to lead others in prayer to keep his own spiritual life healthy. “It was exactly what I needed,” says Fudge.

“Bert’s compassionate, gentle spirit and genuine concern for me was an example of Christlikeness.”

Bert was also a soul winner. He unashamedly invited many to accept Christ as Saviour, including an older gentleman named Norman who never

attended church. Bert regularly led prayer meetings and attended Bible study.

Howard Bridger, former CSM of the corps in Triton, says, “Those of us who have been privileged to observe Bert’s life, hear his powerful testimony, see him worship, hear him pray and sense his passion for the spiritually lost, have been immeasurably impacted by this great man of God.” Bert was a mentor to Bridger, sharing words of wisdom and encouragement, and they prayed together often.

Faith and Family Of the many convincing proofs of Bert’s influence is the impact he made on his family. His children testify to attending church together, sharing family devotions at the meal table and knowing where their dad would be early in the morning—praying at the kitchen table, his journal and Bible close at hand.

Today, many of them are serving Christ. And in just a few weeks, there will be four Salvation Army officers in the Vincent clan, spanning three generations and four ranks, and giving leadership in corps, social services, youth ministry and overseas.

“My dad was a person of deep faith and strong convictions,” says his son, Lt-Colonel Morris Vincent, chief secretary of the Kenya West Territory. “He freely shared the source of his faith with his family and his community. He elevated the standard of spiritual living for me.”

Another son, Major Vaden Vincent, executive director of the Centre of Hope in Halifax, agrees. “Dad loved to talk to me about spiritual things. I could always confide in him when something was bothering me. His advice was helpful and

God honouring. He had a great influence on my spiritual journey, particularly in responding to God’s call to officership.”

Bert’s influence has borne fruit in succeeding generations, as well. “He would often share stories with me about how his faith had been challenged as a young man, and how he overcame it

“Bert was a man with a consistently broad smile, a kind heart and a strong witness of faith … he loved a good chat.” through a consistent prayer life,” says his grandson, Captain Kristian Simms, divisional youth secretary in the Prairie Division. “From an early age, he would check on me to see how I was doing in my spiritual walk.”

Bert’s great-granddaughter, Cadet Courtney Kelly—who will be commissioned on July 1—also bears witness to his impact on her life. “Pop was my prayer warrior,” she says. “I am now a spiritual leader because of his consistent encouragement and example.”

His influence includes many family members who are active in lay leadership in various corps across the country and beyond in youth ministry, corps finance, music and social ministries, as well as an international project in Zimbabwe.

A Legacy of Service For many years, Bert kept a journal and would often write about his family and his faith. In 2013, just before his promotion to glory, his spiritual musings reflected an honest humility as he considered the prospect of his eternal home.

“I have had ups and downs in my life, but my heavenly Father has seen me through,” he wrote. “I have failed my God many times, but my God has never failed me. Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on all my family. I love them all. Be happy knowing Dad is going home to be with Jesus, not of my goodness lest I should boast, but by the shed blood of my Lord.”

The Triton-Brighton Corps building is currently undergoing a major renovation. Part of this project includes a designated room where people will gather for prayer and small group ministry. This room will be named the Bert Vincent Memorial Chapel, in honour of his legacy and faithful service.

How do I measure influence? By a man I call Dad. Lt-Colonel Wanda Vincent is the territorial secretary for women’s ministries in the Kenya West Territory.

Bert’s influence spans three generations of Salvation Army officers. From left, Bert with son Lt-Col Morris Vincent, son Mjr Vaden Vincent, grandson Cpt Kristian Simms and great-granddaughter Cdt Courtney Kelly

Salvationist June 2017 19

Bridge Builders The Salvation Army is bringing people together in Rwanda.

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BY GISELLE RANDALL

n Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills, a village in Kayenzi perches along the top of a ridge, overlooking the valley below. Green hills, dotted with rust-red roofs, disappear into the distance. The land is divided into small farms—about 90 percent of Rwandans depend on subsistence agriculture, growing only enough food to feed their families. Children cluster at communal water taps, filling yellow containers, smiling and waving at passing cars.

It’s hard to imagine that a horrific genocide happened in peaceful places like this, all over the country, in 1994.

Over the course of 100 days, from April to July, the Hutu majority—spurred on by the government—systematically slaughtered close to one million Tutsis.

Never Again “It’s not easy to talk about that period,” says Captain Marie Grace Nyiramana, national co-ordinator for The Salvation Army’s women’s microcredit project in Rwanda, who was 16 at the time. “After the genocide, there were many orphans, many widows. So many houses were destroyed. Fields and crops were burned.

People were very hungry.

“Survivors were suffering because of what they had seen—they were traumatized, afraid to meet with others. They didn’t want to work or cultivate their fields, saying, ‘We are ready to die. There is no reason to do anything because we are at the end.’ ” That September, The Salvation 20 June 2017 Salvationist

Army sent an emergency relief team to Rwanda. Based in Kayenzi, they distributed emergency supplies, built houses and restored water sources. They also provided spiritual support, and soon a corps was planted.

This is how Captain Nyiramana was introduced to the Army, and also how she met her husband, Andrew Nsengiyaremye, one of the Army’s first recruits. They were married in 1996, and she also became a soldier. In 2002, they were among the first Rwandans to go to training college in Congo-Brazzaville, graduating as part of the Bridgebuilders Session.

“I decided to become an officer because of the compassion I have seen in The Salvation Army,” says Captain Nyiramana. “After being commissioned, it was my priority to build bridges—to teach Rwandan people about reconciliation, to become one people, so that genocide will never again happen in our country.”

In this deeply divided place, The Salvation Army is helping to bring people together, to bring healing. “When you visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, and understand what happened—it’s tragic,” says Lt-Colonel Seth Appeateng, officer commanding, Rwanda and Burundi Command. “We can’t correct the past, but we hope that we can correct the present, so we won’t repeat our mistakes in the future, and there will be peace.

“In some areas, we have a reconciliation program, where people come to The Salvation Army to learn and share ideas

about how to live together as Rwandans.

And as leadership, we preach about reconciliation, making sure our people accept and bless each other, whatever their background, so that people see what it looks like.”

Peace and Reconciliation In 2012, The Salvation Army started a program for children and youth in Nyagatare, a district in Eastern Province where many Rwandans have resettled after living as refugees in nearby Tanzania and Uganda. In co-operation with the local government, the Army established clubs for children (ages seven to 15) and youth (ages 16-30) in two areas, Gituro

Photos: Giselle Randall

Cpt Marie Grace Nyiramana and Esther Nyiramatungo, who expanded her business selling textiles in the market with help from the Army’s microcredit project

and Rwimiyaga. The clubs are open to everyone in the community, meeting weekly at the Army hall for a variety of activities. For the children, some of whom are orphans, the program provides a safe, child-friendly space, with games, music, sports and art. For youth, it’s a place to foster unity, with guest speakers and discussions on reconciliation, conflict management and anti-genocide ideology.

In Gituro, children must walk for two hours each way to attend the closest primary school. The Army has been given land and hopes to build a school.

The Army supports five preschools in

Rwanda, including in Kayenzi, where Lieutenants Jean-Damascene and Pelagie Mudenge are the corps officers. Along with the preschool, they run the TVET (technical, vocational and education training) program.

“In this area, we started tailoring and auto mechanic classes, because the people of our country need it,” he explains. “Some left school because they couldn’t afford school fees, so they can come here. Learning a skill helps them get a job.”

Corneille Utuje, 20, is a student in the mechanics program. “Learning mechanics is my passion,” he says. “Before, I was

repairing small devices like radios and phones. When I heard there was a training school nearby for auto mechanics, now my dream comes true. The school is good because we have theoretical and practical training. Learning more about mechanics will help me live.”

Empowering Women Another way the Army in Rwanda is supporting livelihoods is through microcredit. Groups of 10-15 women meet each week, bringing money to save in a common bank account. After a year, they are able to receive a loan of five times the amount they saved to invest Salvationist June 2017 21

in their businesses. The groups share their experiences and encourage each other to repay the loans, which are due within 12 months.

“The Army is using microcredit to help women develop, to provide for their families,” says Captain Nyiramana. “And that empowers them.”

There are 11 groups in Rwanda, with five in Muhanga, where Giselle Umutoni owns a small shop. She has been part of the Army’s savings group for two years, and has received loans to increase her stock and train to become a hairdresser.

“Women are the ones who struggle to develop and feed the family. This group means we are able to pay school fees and buy health insurance,” she says.

The name of her shop is Icyizere, which means hope. “My hope for the future is to extend my business, and to be able to construct a house.”

The loans Esther Nyiramatungo received helped her expand her business selling textiles in the market. “The group has taught me the importance of solidarity, and also about loyalty,” she says. “If we’re not loyal, the group won’t last.”

Josephine Mukanyandwi agrees. “The group means a lot to me. We support

each other. When we put our strength and efforts together, we can do more,” she says. Before joining the group, Mukanyandwi sold bananas by carrying them in a basin. A loan enabled her to buy a bicycle with a crate, which can carry about six basin’s worth. “When

I was alone, I made 500 francs. Now, I make 5,000.” The income helps to feed her family, send her children to school and pay for health insurance.

Mobilizing While Rwanda is politically stable and is

Cpt Nyiramana and Josephine Mukanyandwi, who bought a bicycle and crate with the loan she received from the Army’s microcredit project

The Red Zone After the genocide in Rwanda, Salvation Army pioneers brought hope in dangerous times.

BY MAJOR HILARY JACKSON On April 6, 1994, a plane carrying Rwandan President Juvenal Habyarimana was shot down over Kigali, triggering a systematic massacre of Tutsis by the Hutu majority, over a period of 100 days. The genocide was brought to an end when the Rwandan Patriotic Front, made up of Tutsi refugees who had fled previous ethnic conflict, invaded from Uganda and seized control of the country. That September, The Salvation Army sent an emergency relief team to help begin the rebuilding process. In June 1998, Canadian officers Majors Fred and Hilary Jackson were appointed to Rwanda as regional commanders, to oversee the Army’s rapidly growing work. Major Hilary Jackson reflects on that time.

A

lthough regional headquarters was located in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, most of the Army’s work was in Kayenzi Commune, a bone-jarring one-hour drive west, through dangerous terrain. Kayenzi was in a “red zone,” with intermittent fighting between the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) and Hutu rebels. It wasn’t unusual to travel to Kayenzi hearing gunfire echoing through the hills. During one visit, 22 June 2017 Salvationist

we watched a low-flying helicopter on the next hill shooting into the trees at rebel fighters.

But in spite of the dangers, The Salvation Army grew. In fact, we faced an enviable problem—we couldn’t keep up with the demand for soldiership classes.

In October, the fighting escalated and we were forced to bring our staff and vehicles into the city. The corps officers stayed as long as they could, but the people, concerned for their safety, begged them to leave. The local people carried on, knowing that at any time the compound could be attacked.

They were proud to wear their white uniforms identifying them as Salvationists.

December 1998 was a dangerous time. The rebels distributed flyers advising the people that they would attack the area on Christmas Day. The United Nations representative advised us not to go to Kayenzi, but we still had loyal staff and soldiers who were carrying on the work. We decided to go and hold meetings on Sunday, December 23.

The road, usually teaming with people, was eerily abandoned. As we drove into the compound, no one was there to

Giselle Umutoni in her shop in Muhanga. Thanks to The Salvation Army, she has hope for the future

Photo: Joyce Hazard

greet us. My heart sank as doubt set in. No one had come. We parked the vehicle and made our way to the building. Even the air seemed to be holding its breath.

When we opened the door, we saw a room full of people sitting and waiting for us. There was no feeling of tension, just a quiet calm. During the genocide, people had run to churches, believing they would be safe—only to be massacred. Everyone knew the danger of meeting, yet they came to worship. We celebrated the birth of Christ, singing together in hushed voices.

Leaving Kayenzi, we made our way to the outpost in Bitari, about 10 kilometres away. The corps leaders, then Envoys Andrew Nsengiyaremye and Marie Grace Nyiramana, were waiting for us in their tiny house with about half a dozen people. We couldn’t stay long. We sang carols and distributed

Canadian officers Mjrs Hilary and Fred Jackson were the first regional commanders in Rwanda

small gifts before setting off for Kigali. My heart was breaking for these brave people.

On December 25, the Roman Catholic compound about five kilometres from Kayenzi was attacked, but not one of our Salvationists was hurt.

In March, plans were made to hold the first congress in Rwanda. The mayor of the district gave us permission to hold a march of witness and open-air meeting over the Easter weekend.

We arranged for taxi buses to transport people from Kigali.

During the genocide, these buses were often stopped and people gunned down by the side of the road. Our taxis vibrated with singing and even timbrels playing. We travelled in convoy, passing through the military checkpoints. We arrived to see hundreds of people lined up in single file, ready for the march of witness. How proud we were to stand on the back of the truck, taking the Salvation Army salute.

That weekend, we enrolled 35 soldiers and 10 adherents, and dedicated 25 babies. On our way back to Kigali, we dropped people off at Runda. What we didn’t know until later was that a group in the corps had stayed awake the previous night, praying for the safety of the congress delegates. When we left them after the congress, they didn’t go home, but gathered at the town square to hold an open-air service.

The spirit of the Army was evident and God blessed our pioneer soldiers in amazing ways.

Major Hilary Jackson is a retired Salvation Army officer. She and her husband, Major Fred Jackson, served in a variety of appointments in the Canada and Bermuda Territory, as well as overseas. They attend Cascade Community Church in Abbotsford, B.C. Salvationist June 2017 23

Francine Mukeshimana teaches sewing as part of the TVET (technical, vocational and education training) program in Kayenzi

making significant economic progress, poverty remains high. “The demands here are huge, but the resources we have are few—that’s the challenge we face,” says Lt-Colonel Appeateng.

In 2015, with support from external funding, the Army provided access to health care for 3,000 beneficiaries in five districts, paying 80 percent of the insurance premium. They also distributed a two-month supply of food for 180 beneficiaries in Kinigi, Northern

Lts JeanDamascene Mudenge and Pelagie Mudenge are the corps officers in Kayenzi, where The Salvation Army first started in Rwanda From left, Moise Ndayishimiye, Gustave Hakizimana and Corneille Utuje.

Hakizimana teaches auto mechanics at TVET

Province, and gave out 8,000 buckets in a refugee camp.

A five-year strategic plan (2014-2018) outlines the Army’s priorities to continue meeting community needs, grow as a church, increase and empower officers and become more financially self-sufficient. Despite difficult circumstances, they are committed to mobilizing their resources and finding local, faith-based solutions.

Features editor Giselle Randall travelled to Rwanda in January to see the work of The Salvation Army.

24 June 2017 Salvationist

CROSS CULTURE

IN THE NEWS

Photo: Courtesy of Come From Away

Australian Salvos Get Into Funeral Business

In Come From Away, the people of Gander, N.L., welcome stranded passengers after 9/11

Salvation Army Recognized at Broadway Musical

Broadway’s latest hit, the musical Come From Away, tells a story that is familiar to Canadian Salvationists. The show recounts how, after the horrific attacks on September 11, 2001, dozens of airplanes were diverted to the small town of Gander, N.L., where they received food, clothing, shelter and more from the people of the town and The Salvation Army.

Prior to a performance of Come

From Away in March, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau highlighted the work of The Salvation Army and Lt-Colonel Alf Richardson in assisting the nearly 6,600 people stranded in Gander.

“Alf [Richardson] from The Salvation Army thought about it and realized that they could just turn the local hockey rink into the world’s largest walk-in refrigerator,” the prime minister said. “That sort of example of everyone coming together and making things happen is, I know, what this story is all about.”

For more than 150 years, The Salvation Army has offered care in times of crisis.

In keeping with this mission, the Army in Australia now offers affordable funeral services, providing practical and spiritual support to grieving families.

After a successful six-month pilot project, Salvos Funerals officially launched in March.

“As Christians, a funeral is a sad process but there’s a celebration and there’s hope, where for some, they don’t have that hope,” says Malcolm Pittendrigh, who spearheaded the program. “The Army is here to walk them through what can be a really horrendous load.”

Flexibility and affordability are priorities for Pittendrigh and his team. An average Salvos Funeral will cost less than $6,000, well below prices offered by other funeral companies. “We pride ourselves on not having marks-ups and being open about what the costs are,” he says. In the future, Pittendrigh hopes to subsidize funerals for those who are unable to afford them.

Pittendrigh would like to connect clients with other Salvation Army services, such as counselling, and see salvation stories and connections with corps develop out of Salvos Funerals.

IN REVIEW War on Two Fronts

The Year of Small Things

BY ROGER J. GREEN William Booth’s theology is the product of a particular time and place, taking shape as he attempted to understand how he could reach the urban masses in Nottingham and London, England, with the gospel. In War on Two Fronts, Dr. Roger Green, OF, traces the evolution of the Founder’s theology, from the Christian Mission days of 1865 to his promotion to glory in 1912. By examining Booth’s theology, Green also explores the development of Salvation Army theology, for they are inextricably linked. He divides Booth’s development into three stages, and outlines how his beliefs—and the Army’s mission—progressed through each stage. Originally published in 1989, this second edition of War on Two Fronts has been updated and freshly edited, thanks to the U.S.A. Southern Territory and Lt-Colonel Allen Satterlee, national literary secretary.

BY SARAH ARTHUR AND ERIN F. WASINGER When Sarah and Tom Arthur were appointed to a suburban church in Lansing, Michigan, after three years in an urban Christian community, they faced a unique challenge: how to translate the practices of “radical” faith into their new context. With their friends Erin and Dave Wasinger, the Arthurs embarked on a yearlong experiment to implement 12 small, but intentional, practices of radical faith—including simplicity, hospitality, accountability, sustainability, social justice and discernment—devoting one month to each practice. In their book, Arthur and Wasinger encourage readers to consider how God might be calling them to embark on their own year of small but radical changes, in whatever context they find themselves. Each chapter includes discussion questions and suggested readings.

William Booth’s theology of redemption

Radical faith for the rest of us

Salvationist June 2017 25

PEOPLE & PLACES

GITWINKSIHLKW, B.C.—Eight young people take a stand for Christ and are enrolled as junior soldiers at Gitwinksihlkw Corps. Proudly displaying their Junior Soldier Promises are, from left, Pierce Moore, Kyla Moore, Cloe Moore, Lily Azak, Emma Azak, Keyanna Moore, Owen Azak and Tatum Azak. With them are, from left, Damian Azak, corps leader; Cpt Dave Macpherson, AC, B.C. Div.; and Erica Azak, corps leader.

TORONTO—From left, Wendeen Gray and Shane Knol are enrolled as junior soldiers at Etobicoke Temple.

GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR, N.L.—Serving as a Salvation Army band member is a family affair at Park Street Citadel, where three generations from two families minister together through music. From left, former BM Wilmore Braye with his son, Craig Braye, and granddaughter, Madison Braye; CSM Lorraine White with her daughter, DBM Lori Barry, and grandson, Thomas Barry.

GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR, N.L.—Jaxon Fifield is the newest junior soldier at Grand Falls Citadel.

Supporting him are Mjrs Marilyn and Maurice Blackler, COs, and Frank Keats, colour sergeant.

HAMILTON, ONT.—Three new junior soldiers are enrolled at Meadowlands Corps. From left, Doneka Casey, teacher; YPSM Mike Gleadall; Mjr Beverley Smith, CO; Brayden Kerr; Timothy Kerr; Mickenzie Varty; CS Dan Millar; and Mjr Ken Smith, CO. 26 June 2017 Salvationist

PEOPLE & PLACES

TORONTO—His Eminence Cardinal Thomas Collins, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Toronto, recently visited territorial headquarters to meet with Salvation Army leaders to discuss issues affecting the church today, with a particular focus on the government’s new legislation on medical assistance in dying. From left, Lt-Col Jim Champ, secretary for communications; Father Ed Curtis, assistant to Cardinal Collins; Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander; Cardinal Collins; and Colonel Lee Graves, chief secretary.

EDMONTON—When Lts Dae-Gun Kim and Aejin Jeong, COs in Wetaskiwin, Alta., became Canadian citizens earlier this year, Alta. & N.T. Divisional Headquarters’ staff hosted a surprise party in their honour to mark the occasion.

SAULT STE MARIE, ONT.—Thora Hill receives a certificate of appreciation from Mjr Everett Barrow, DC, Ont. GL Div, on her 100th birthday in recognition of 85 years of faithful service as a senior soldier at Sault Ste Marie Corps.

OSHAWA, ONT.—Ivan Downey receives a certificate of appreciation from Cols Lindsay and Lynette Rowe, COs, as he retires from the position of director of community and family services at Oshawa Temple.

Mountain of Thanks MARKHAM, ONT.—The Ont. CE Div’s public relations and development department hosted its annual Toy Mountain appreciation and awards dinner at Angus Glen Golf Club. The event was emceed by Tom Brown, CTV News Toronto weather anchor, who has showcased the Army’s Christmas effort on the CTV evening news throughout the Toy Mountain campaign for the past 15 years.

With more than 154,000 toys collected, Toy Mountain exceeded its goal for 2016 thanks to the hard work of individuals and corporations who joined in the campaign. Several awards were presented, including the Community Partner Award to North Thornhill Community Centre, Brianna Baker and the Christopher Skinner Memorial Foundation; the Corporate Partner Award to Enercare and TD Bank; and the Hope Partnership Award to those who have shown an extraordinary commitment and demonstrated the true spirit of corporate social responsibility by making a lasting difference in the community. Expressions of thanks were also extended

to Marshalls, Toronto Area Ford Dealers and Sarah Virro of CTV News Toronto. Neil Leduke (kneeling, left), director of marketing and communications, Ont. CE Div; Tom Brown (kneeling,

second from left); and Andrew Burditt, DSPRD, Ont. CE Div (standing, third from right), share a moment with award recipients and corporate partners at the appreciation dinner.

Salvationist June 2017 27

PEOPLE & PLACES

TRIBUTES CHARLOTTETOWN, N.L.—Ida Powell was promoted to glory at the age of 86. Ida committed her heart to the Lord many years ago and became an active soldier of the Charlottetown Corps, where she never failed to witness for her Lord whenever the opportunity arose. A faithful member of the home league, she served for many years as the home league secretary. Ida was married to Theophilus Powell and together they raised a family of four daughters and one son. Predeceased by Theophilus in 1984, and daughter Gloria in 2013, Ida will be forever remembered and sadly missed by daughters Laura (Ron), Joyce (Roy) and Bernice (Ron); son, Hedley (Patsy); seven grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

SPRINGDALE, N.L.—Violet Isabel Small was born in 1922 and promoted to glory at the age of 94. Affectionately known as Aunt Violet, she was a faithful soldier of Springdale Corps for 23 years and will be missed by her fellow Salvationists. Violet spent many hours knitting and making crafts, and gave away a lot of her handiwork. She was dedicated to her Lord and loved him very much. Violet lived independently at her cottage in Springdale until she went home to be with the Lord. She was a woman of wisdom and recently gave the following advice to her granddaughter, Sarah: “Be kind to people, have patience with people, listen to people, love people and, most of all, have faith.” Violet was a prayer warrior and an encourager to all she met. She is fondly remembered by her daughter, Shirley; sons William and Vernon; a large number of relatives and friends.

VANCOUVER—Born in Vancouver, Percy Pavey attended South Vancouver Corps with his family. Upon completing his formal education, Percy’s interest in music led him to enrol in the University of British Columbia music program from which he graduated with a master of education. Through the succeeding years, he was a teacher, counsellor, viceprincipal and principal in several Langley District schools.

Percy’s involvement and dedication to the ministries of South Vancouver Corps and Southmount Citadel were a sterling example of faithfulness. He served as bandmaster, songster leader and chairman of the building committee when the new Southmount Citadel building was planned. Percy was actively involved in the music program at the British Columbia Division’s Camp Sunrise and, for a number of years, took on the role of program director for the senior music camp program. Percy was promoted to glory on his 80th birthday and is survived by his daughter, Heather (Tony); son, Michael; grandsons Chase and Connor; siblings Elmer (Shirley) and Margaret Garcia, and their families.

SEAL COVE, FORTUNE BAY, N.L.—Sidney Rideout was born to Curtis and Margaret Rideout in 1938 and married Shirley Bungay in 1959. Sidney was a logger, and even following retirement, he cut logs as a hobby to heat their family home.

He had a deep love for the Lord and served his Master as a member of The Salvation Army. As a Sunday school teacher and corps cadet counsellor, Sidney influenced many young people through his teaching of God’s Word. He was also a faithful member of the men’s fellowship group and regularly attended men’s camps and rallies. Sidney used every opportunity to witness for his Lord and was a great encourager to everyone who was privileged to share in conversation with him. He spoke often about spiritual matters and his concern for the souls of others was evident.

Sidney is deeply missed and remembered by his wife, Shirley; children Garry (Thelma), Alverda (Adolph), Lorraine (Gary), Darlene (Rex), Scott (Michelle) and Paul (Kelly); grandchildren Chris (Jennifer), Curtis (Jenna), Jennifer (Ben), Matt, Janelle, Josh, Nathan, Jessica, Kelsie and Andrew; great-grandchildren Sadie and Grace; brothers Roy (Audrey) and Allan (Margaret); sisters Lydia, Nita (Bert) and Irene; a large circle of relatives and friends.

28 June 2017 Salvationist

LONDON, ONT.—Mrs. Aux-Captain May Adnum was born in 1928 in London, Ont., to Francis and Lillian Clarke. She grew up in London and attended The Salvation Army. May was commissioned as a Salvation Army officer as a member of the Warriors for Jesus Session in 1947. She served as a single officer until she met and married Alfred David Adnum in 1952.

They entered full-time ministry as auxiliary-captains in 1965 and served in corps appointments in Carleton Place, Renfrew, Kenora, Port Hope and finally Whitby, Ont., from where they entered retirement in 1980. Settling in Kingston, Ont., May worked for The Salvation Army in community and family services for 17 years. She moved home to London in 2000.

Predeceased by her husband, Alfred, and brother, Donald Clarke, May will be missed by her son, Arnold (Joan); daughter, Mary-Ellen; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

CAMBRIDGE, KINGS COUNTY, N.S.—Lester “Vernon” Huntley was born in Wolfville, N.S., to Clarence and Nina (Goucher) Huntley and promoted to glory at the age of 80 from Valley Regional Hospital in Kentville, N.S. In his younger years, he joined the Air Cadets and was involved with the pipe band.

Vernon was a soldier of Kentville Community Church where he served as bandmaster for 26 years and a community care ministries member for more than 30 years. He enjoyed golfing, singing and playing the guitar and violin. Predeceased by his infant brother and sister, Robert and Rosalie, Vernon is survived by his wife of 60 years, Anna (Mahar); daughters Catherine (Richard) Lyman and Tara-Lee Cleveland; sons Vernon “Tim” (Charlene), Allen (Cheryl), Michael, Stephen (Cassie) and David; sister, Debi (Vincent) Sawler; 17 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

BISHOP’S FALLS, N.L.—Clara Hanes (nee Deering) was born in Bishop’s Falls in 1932, the eldest of 11 children born to loving parents Allan and Hazel Deering. The Salvation Army was the centre of all her activities. As a child, she was enrolled as a junior soldier and was a member of the singing company, Sunbeams and Guards. As an adult, Clara served as a songster, Sunday school teacher and young people’s sergeant-major. She played the drum in the band and was a member of the home league, corps council and ACSAL. A faithful soldier, Clara loved serving God through The Salvation Army and was a passionate supporter of the Partners in Mission campaign. She was very generous in her giving, especially for ministry in Jamaica, where she had visited and seen first-hand what help was needed. Clara sponsored a child in the developing world and provided financial aid to children’s organizations, such as Operation Smile. Predeceased by her husband, Owen, Clara is lovingly remembered by her sisters, brothers, in-laws, nieces and nephews.

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Melva Compton (nee Wight) was born in Hare Bay, N.L., in 1924. As the eldest child of Salvation Army officers, Samuel and Lillian Wight, Melva’s childhood was spent in communities throughout Newfoundland as her parents moved through various appointments. Melva served as a Salvation Army officer for two years prior to her marriage to George Compton in 1950. Together, they had three children, Gloria, Glenda and Gary, who, along with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, were the focus of Melva’s love and dedication.

Melva loved and served her Lord throughout her life as a dedicated songster, league of mercy (community care ministries) member and Sunday school teacher. As a mother, grandmother and friend, she will remembered because of her humble attitude, loving heart and forgiving spirit. Melva truly embodied Jesus’ command to “love God and love others.” She will be forever missed by her family and friends.

TROUBLESOME TEXTS

GAZETTE INTERNATIONAL Appointments: Sep 1—Cols David/Sharron Hudson, NC/NPWM, U.S.A., with rank of comr, Sep 1 and Sep 2, respectively; Cols Jeffrey/Dorothy Smith, NCS/NSWM, U.S.A.; Cols Stephen/Janice Howard, CS/TSWM, U.S.A. Central Tty TERRITORIAL Appointments: Colonel Deborah Graves, integrated mission secretary (additional responsibility); Lt-Col David Bowles, assistant integrated mission secretary (additional responsibility); Jul 1—Mjrs Keith/Shona Pike, youth and children’s officers, administration department, IHQ; Lt-Col Beverley Slous, international auditor, business administration department, IHQ; Mjr Brian Slous, under secretary for business administration, business administration department, IHQ Promoted to glory: Mrs. Mjr Annie Barfoot, from Toronto, Mar 21; Mjr Don Bursey, from Ottawa, Mar 23

CALENDAR Commissioner Susan McMillan: Jun 2-4 women’s ministries camp, Twin Ponds Camp, N.L. Div; Jun 17-23 28th Annual ACFE Global Conference, Nashville, Tenn.; Jun 24-25 CFOT; Jun 29-Jul 3 N.L. divisional congress and commissioning, with General André Cox, Commissioner Silvia Cox, Commissioners Brian/Rosalie Peddle, Mount Pearl, N.L. Colonels Lee and Deborah Graves: Jun 9 Ottawa Integration Team gathering; Jun 11 The Salvation Army Barrhaven Church, Ottawa; Jun 17-18 St. Catharines Corps, Ont. (Colonel Lee Graves only); Jun 24-25 CFOT; Jun 30-Jul 2 N.L. divisional congress and commissioning, Mount Pearl, N.L. Canadian Staff Band: Jun 30-Jul 2 N.L. divisional congress and commissioning, Mount Pearl, N.L. Canadian Staff Songsters: Jun 3-4 Ottawa Citadel General Bramwell H. Tillsley (Rtd): Jun 4 Burlington 2017 TSSC Salvationist Qtr.pdf 4 9/15/2016 3:16:57 PM CC, Ont.

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motivate innovate integrate 2017 Territorial Social Services Conference

Hilton Meadowvale Hotel & Conference Centre October 23-25, 2017 www.tsscon.ca

Jonah’s Connection to Jesus

BY GENERAL BRAMWELL H. TILLSLEY (RTD) “For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.”—Matthew 12:40

T

his text has become a problem to those who insist on interpreting the passage with the precision of a mathematician. (The Son of Man was not in the heart of the earth three nights between his Crucifixion and Resurrection.)

In an attempt to do away with this apparent error, some have reminded us that the Jews often considered parts of days as whole days (see 1 Samuel 30:12-13). However, it is doubtful whether a mathematical approach is even correct, for when Luke records this same narrative, the number three is not even mentioned (see Luke 11:29-32.)

Perhaps even more important than our text is the context in which it was spoken. “Then some of the Pharisees and teachers of the law said to him, ‘Teacher, we want to see a sign from you’ ” (Matthew 12:38). This word, “sign” (semeion), is the basic word for “miracle” in John’s Gospel (see John 2:18; 4:48; 6:30).

Two other Greek words have been translated “miracle” and are employed with a distinct shade of meaning. For example, dunamis, the root of the English word “dynamite,” stresses the power revealed in the performance of the miracle (see Mark 9:39; Acts 2:22; Acts 19:11). Teras, often translated “wonders,” emphasizes the fact that something outside the usual course of events has taken place. A teras was something that left people gasping in surprise (see Acts 2:19, 43). The word for “sign” (semeion) implies that behind the deed is some deeper meaning of which the deed itself is secondary.

The purpose of signs is clearly stated in John’s Gospel: “Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe” (John 20:30-31). It was for a sign the teachers of the law and Pharisees were looking, thus the emphasis shifts from the sign to the meaning behind it. When we approach our present text, it is not the time but the truth which should be the centre of attention.

Although I have no desire to “mythologize” the story of Jonah as recorded in the Scriptures, I do feel it is unfortunate that we cannot think of his life except in terms of “the huge fish.” To the Ninevites, Jonah himself was God’s sign, and his words were God’s words. To those who came seeking a sign from Jesus, his only reply was: “I am God’s sign.” Thus the basic question behind our text is not one of mathematics, but rather: “What do you think of Christ?”

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 June 2017 29

SALVATION STORIES

A Matter of Trust I faced serious surgery, but God gave me peace.

BY LIEUTENANT BETHANY DUECK

30 June 2017 Salvationist

Photo: Carson Samson

I

n March 2009, I sat in a doctor’s office to learn the results of an MRI, and heard the words, “We found a large mass growing inside the walls of your spine.” Strangely, I felt a sense of relief. I’d been in pain for many years, but test after test came back with no answers.

When the pain spread from my lower back to my hips and legs, my doctor started to wonder if it was related to the nervous system, and sent me for an MRI. Although the words “tumour” and “relief” don’t usually go hand in hand, I finally had a solid answer that would lead to moving forward.

As I waited to hear from a specialist, I struggled to keep going as if nothing was wrong. At the time, I was a community youth worker at Chatham-Kent Ministries, Ont., and led a program for kids from the surrounding community on Friday evenings.

I remember one Friday clearly. We played badminton and I cooked large amounts of spaghetti for our meal.

Despite my stubborn nature—I insisted on carrying the heavy pots—the reality was that my body was aching, and the pain medication was no longer helping.

During the devotional time, one of the young teens asked if she could pray for me. It was extremely moving, because it was so out of the ordinary for her—when she was part of our children’s program, she was often sent home for misbehaving.

Later that night, my family doctor suggested I go to the emergency room.

That weekend, I was taken by ambulance to London, Ont., and scheduled for surgery on Monday.

When the surgeon came to talk to me—an unusual occurrence—I knew it was serious. He told me the tumour was entangled in my nerves, and if they removed all of it, I would likely be paralyzed and lose the function of my bladder and bowels. It was a lot to take in, but as the hours passed, I had peace that whatever happened, God would be with me.

After 11 hours of surgery—instead

“The years leading up to my diagnosis were tough. Although I never lost my faith in God, I had many times of questioning,” says Lt Bethany Dueck, assistant CO at Heritage Park Temple in Winnipeg

of the expected six—I woke up in the recovery room. I was told they had been able to remove the entire tumour, and I could still move my toes. The relief was overwhelming. Hundreds of people around the world were praying for me, and I believe God answered their prayers. His hand was at work, making the impossible possible.

While recovering in hospital, I received rejection letters from the universities I had applied to, but instead of being disheartened, I found myself in a fit of laughter—thinking, God sure has a sense of humour!—because I wouldn’t have been able to attend school that fall. I began to sense that God had other plans for me.

After the surgery, I went through radiation treatments as a precaution, and received the “all clear” in June.

God began to reveal my calling, and

by January 2010, I had applied to The Salvation Army’s College for Officer Training (CFOT) in Winnipeg.

Although I was anxious about being a single officer, God gave me assurance over and over that this was his plan.

During the winter of 2011, while doing my placement at Winnipeg’s Heritage Park Temple, a friendship began to bloom with one of the corps members, Brian Dueck, and he soon asked me to date him.

On our third date, I asked if he was OK with the fact that my tumour might grow again someday. He replied that he wouldn’t be OK with it, but if it happened, he would be by my side. We were married on July 6, 2013. After our wedding, my parents sent a note to the surgeon, thanking him that I was able to walk down the aisle on my wedding day.

Today, we find ourselves back in Winnipeg as Brian studies at CFOT. I continue to receive clear reports from my doctor, but I know there’s always a possibility the tumour could come back.

I have faith knowing that God was with me the first time, and if it does return, he will still be with me, no matter what the outcome. We look to God as he leads us, knowing there will be many challenges and changes along the way, but trusting that he is bigger than anything we will ever face.

HIGHER EDUCATION FOR A HIGHER PURPOSE. EDUCATION FOR A BETTER WORLD

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