Salvationist September 2018

Mentoring Youth at Westminster Park

Crossing a Line: Justice for Separated Families

Meadowlands Corps Connects With Community

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

September 2018

For His Glory

Timbrel leader Serena Doars keeps tradition alive

Salvationist.ca

salvationist.ca/anti-human-trafficking

CONTENTS

Salvationist September 2018 • Volume 13, Number 9

14

Prophet of Doom: Amos’ Warning

Northridge Bridges Church and Community

Pipeline Controversy: Economy or Environment?

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

July 2018

Salvationist.ca

Farewell to General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox

Ke e p Connected

More Than a Meal

FOOD & FRIENDS P.5

Critters Fighting Jitters

PAWS OF LOVE P.15

The Next General

Commissioner Brian Peddle elected 21st leader of The Salvation Army

Departments

This Month: • Christians are called to detect and correct injustice, says Dr. James Read.

• An innovative shelter design allows rapid response to homelessness in Chilliwack, B.C.

5 Inbox

Commissioner Brian Peddle Elected 21st General The 2018 High Council chooses Chief of the Staff and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle to lead The Salvation Army into the future.

NIFTY THRIFTY P.23

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

faithandfriends.ca

SUMMER 2018

Faith & Friends July 2018 That’s Incredible!

CAN OUR FAVOURITE SUPERHERO FAMILY SAVE THE DAY AGAIN? P.12

• At The Salvation Army’s Bloor Central church, guests are treated to more than a meal.

• Friendships keep Vanessa Cormier coming back to Salvation Army camp.

The Salvation Army’s Booth University College is using a special type of emotional rescue to help ease student stress.

The Power of Prayer

Salvationists honour General André and Commissioner Silvia Cox as they retire.

After a life-changing stroke, Major Margaret Burt embraces new ministry at care home.

Just for Kids July 2018 Jesus Brings a Man Back to Life

Hi kids!

This week’s Bible story is about Mary and Martha, two sisters whose brother, Lazarus, died. This made them very sad.

“Why Not You?”

by Ken Ramstead

22 Ethically Speaking Ending Exploitation

by Major Karen Puddicombe

Features

26 People & Places

10 For His Glory

30 Salvation Stories

Timbrel leader Serena Doars keeps tradition alive at London Citadel.

by Kristin Ostensen

God’s Rescue Operation

by Geoff Moulton

23 Grace Notes Crossing a Line

by Lieutenant Erin Metcalf

30

What do you give a sick pig?

• Join Noah and his family on the Ark.

A U R E H T O R B L D H M A R Y T S A S S I T X D G R Z V U I D E R H Z A B I S C B T D A R R A X E KWQ T U M E K B J J K O S N N V G P T V M K Y O I O C L M B J E T X E I D N B U Y S D O G Z K S I BROTHER GOD LAZARUS MARY STONE

DIED JESUS MARTHA SICK TOMB

This Month: • Celebrate National Ice Cream Month.

• Take a Sabbath rest.

Looking for Lazarus

Oink-ment

12 Not Called?

4 Editorial

30

Your friend, Kristin

• Find out how Jesus brought a man back to life.

Reprinted from Kids Alive! (April 28, 2018)

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

Keep Connected

Coffee Talk

by Lt-Colonel John P. Murray

Columns

ISSUE

Jesus told His disciples, “In this world you will have troubles.

But be brave!

I have defeated the world!” (John 16:33 ERV). Sickness is a terrible thing, but it’s not the final answer.

The story of Lazarus shows us that God is more powerful than any illness.

What does a dentist call his X-rays?

Tooth-pics

This month on Salvationist.ca, Captain Scott Strissel offers advice to the children of officers under farewell orders, with five tips to help them survive—and even thrive— during the move.

9 Perspectives

A Lesson in Trust

by Andrew Dolan

That’s Incredible!

In The Incredibles 2, can our favourite superhero family save the day again?

Critters Fight the Jitters

A Fond Farewell

6 Frontlines

24 Cross Culture

Ke e p Connected

New How-To Department

Faith&Friends

Salvationist July 2018

14 Linking Old and New Outreach and community spirit are key to Meadowlands Corps’ success in Ancaster, Ont.

by Ken Ramstead

17 Child’s Play The Salvation Army provides safety and support for vulnerable children in India.

by Major Bill Barthau

18 Moral Support A youth mentorship program at Westminster Park Corps bridges the generation gap.

by Kristin Ostensen

20 From Cover to Cover In 2007, Salvationists unearthed a treasure. Housed at Booth University College, the Geneva Bible is a rare piece of our history.

by Ken Ramstead

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.

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

Cover photo: Mark Spowart

Read and share it!

Graduation Day

STUDENTS HELP P.20

Olympian Lolo Jones

GOES FOR GOLD P.12

Army Snapshots

CARING FOR P.E.I. P.8

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

faithandfriends.ca

SEPTEMBER 2018

Back From the Brink AFTER DECADES OF ALCOHOLISM, CONRAD GINTER FOUND SALVATION AT WINNIPEG’S BOOTH CENTRE. P.16

Salvationist September 2018 3

EDITORIAL

T

God’s Rescue Operation

his summer, the world held its breath when 12 boys and their soccer coach were trapped in a cave in Thailand. The group had been exploring the cave after practice when a sudden storm caused the passageways to flood, stranding them inside. They survived in pitch darkness for nine days before they were found on July 2. But that was just the beginning of their ordeal.

Much-needed food, lighting and medical supplies were brought in by divers to boost the boys’ health. Letters from their parents helped alleviate the stress, and one of the Navy SEALs even played chess with them to pass the time. Sadly, one experienced Thai navy diver died while attempting to supply the stranded boys with oxygen tanks.

At first, engineers attempted to pump water from the caves, but they could not prevent more from pouring in from the hills above. Although rescuers had planned to keep the boys in the cave until the rainy season had passed, the forecast of heavy rains forced their hand. The diving option was extremely dangerous, but they had to get the boys out before more flooding made escape impossible.

And so the rescue efforts began.

Expert divers had to train the boys to use special breathing equipment to navigate the tight water-filled passages.

The boys were strapped to the divers for

Salvationist

is a monthly publication of The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory Brian Peddle General Commissioner Susan McMillan Territorial Commander Lt-Colonel John P. Murray 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 September 2018 Salvationist

safety in case they lost sight of them in the murky water. Each boy had to travel nearly three kilometres underground and several hours to reach the cave entrance. Miraculously, they all made it out without serious injuries—and the world breathed a sigh of relief.

The boys’ experience is often mirrored in our spiritual lives. Sometimes we take a wrong turn and end up in a dire situation. Other times, the rising floodwaters are beyond our control. That was the experience of Conrad Ginter who, after decades of addiction, found hope at The Salvation Army’s Booth Centre in Winnipeg. Read his story in Faith & Friends, our supplement bound into the centre of Salvationist magazine.

We include Faith & Friends every month so that you can pull it out and share the hope of Jesus with a friend.

Elsewhere in this issue, we profile Salvationist Serena Doars, who has helped revitalize the Army’s tradition of timbrels (page 10). You’ll find a multi-generational mentoring program at Westminster Park Corps in London, Ont. (page 18). And we open the pages of the Geneva Bible, a sacred work of art at Booth University College (page 20).

As the hours ticked by, it would have been easy for the Thai boys to

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.

lose hope. Thankfully, the international community rallied to their aid. In the same way, the church is called to be a band of rescuers—Christ’s hands and feet to a broken world. To be effective in this calling requires much co-ordination, energy and prayer. May we continue to point people to the Saviour who can lead souls out of the darkness and into his glorious light.

GEOFF MOULTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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Mission

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

INBOX LIVE JUSTLY

The call to justice is at the heart of the gospel.

BY MAJOR CAMPBELL ROBERTS

n the words of our fifth doctrine, we are all “sinners … justly exposed to the wrath of God.” True as that is, an increasing number of people in our world are also sinned against. They suffer social injustice that stops them from experiencing the abundance of life Christ offers. God’s redemptive plan is to free people both from personal and structural sin.

My realization of this began when I was a cadet, grew in my time as a chaplain at an industrial complex, and continued to grow when I was sent to the area of greatest social need in New Zealand, to a community with no expression of The Salvation Army. No appointment, no reports to write, no job existed—I was just there to listen to the community.

I soon realized that a whole range of decisions—some by the local authority, some by the government, some by business—were causing people to be “sinned against” and stopping the Christian vision. People were experiencing injustice and unfairness. I started to see that creating a Christian community was going to require changes in how politics and business worked. To be true to the gospel, I needed to be involved in advocacy and policy change.

One of the ways we did this was through a report on the criminal justice system called “Beyond the Holding Tank.” This report received widespread interest, prompting community meetings and media articles. The prime minister contacted us after reading the report, and ordered copies for every member of the cabinet. The report became a cabinet agenda item, leading to action from ministers in implementing and working toward some of the report’s recommendations.

Illustration: © solar22/iStock.com

This is the first in a seven-part series exploring the nature of social justice, originally presented to the Territorial Leaders’ Conference in fall 2017.

Jesus encouraged his disciples to imagine a changed world when they prayed, “Your kingdom come.”

Why is social justice important for the Army at this time? One of the obvious immediate answers to this question is, if the Army wants to engage and convince millennials of the truth and validity of the gospel message, we will need to pay attention to social justice.

As we know, millennials are far more oriented to matters of social and ecojustice than previous generations.

But more critically, social justice is important for the Army because it is at the heart of the Christian gospel

and message. It is central to the biblical redemption story.

Many leaders in the Army accept and welcome the good that can come from engaging in a social justice ministry, but they would be reticent to see such a ministry displace evangelism and loving social action. I suspect some of you may feel that way.

The argument is that the Army’s historical approach has emphasized personal salvation and loving action to those in need. This has been the Army’s central

18 June 2018 Salvationist

Are We Leaving God Out? S I’m writing to comment on the Army’s move to adopt a community reinforcement approach (CRA) to addiction treatment (“New Approach P to Addictions,” June 2018).

T Millions of addicts have successfully been healed from their disease through the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step program. The most basic principle was faith in a higher power to help overcome our shortcomings and achieve freedom from addiction that we could never achieve on our own.

There is much good to be found in social science, and the CRA approach may be effective for many people. The difference is that it leaves God out. Are the clients of Salvation Army addictions programs unable to identify with the faith-based 12-step program, or has The Salvation Army decided that social science is a more effective way to deal with addictions than the power of God? Gary Robson FRONTLINES

A New Approach to Addictions

alvation Army personnel from across Canada gathered at territorial headquarters in April to learn a new approach to helping people overcome addictions. Hosted by the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s social services department, the 2.5-day workshop educated 21 participants in the community reinforcement approach (CRA), with renowned psychologist Dr. Robert J. Meyers conducting the training.

As Major Tom Tuppenney, consultant in the social services department, explains, the territory intends for CRA to be the “preferred treatment model” going forward. Unlike the Army’s current treatment model, based on the 12-step program, which has a rigid step-by-step structure, CRA is client-centred and -directed. “It asks people what they want to accomplish while they’re in treatment,” Major Tuppenney says.

The goals of CRA are two-fold: to eliminate the positive reinforcement a person receives from using; and enhance the positive reinforcement they receive from staying sober. “In order for that to happen, they have to set goals,” Major Tuppenney notes, “and then we help them plan how they are going to get there.”

“Those suffering with addictions usually experience great shame,” says Donald Fritz, a participant from the Army’s addictions services in Chilliwack, B.C. “The CRA model, with its non-judgmental, compassionate, client-centred approach, was refreshing and Christlike.”

“Dr. Meyers enunciated the efficacy of the CRA approach as the most effective evidence-based method of addictions intervention and treatment available,” says Harout Tarakjian of the Montreal Booth Centre. “We are committed to establishing CRA as the method of treating clients in our program.”

The CRA model has been adopted at one ministry unit in Canada and Bermuda so far: the Halifax Centre of Hope. “Having transitioned to the CRA model in spring 2017, this workshop helped me see areas where I can refine the work I am currently doing with my clients,” says Paul Surette, addictions program supervisor. “It also provided me with a better understanding of how the other components of the CRA process are integrated so as to offer our clients the ‘complete package of support’ as they move forward with their personal recovery plan.”

Ajax Army Fights Hunger With Fines

Thrift Stores Campaign for Children Overseas

overty finds ways to hide, and homelessness finds a way to blend in,” says James Dark, community services co-ordinator and youth director at Hope Community Church, in Ajax, Ont. To combat hunger in the suburban community, the corps partnered with the Town of Ajax and the Ajax Public Library to organize a food drive called Food for Fines. For nearly three weeks, barrels were placed in public libraries around town. To encourage community involvement, the library waived fees in lieu of donations, with each non-perishable food item equaling $1 in fines. “Food for Fines is a good way to take responsibility for returning an overdue book and rather than paying the late fee, you are giving back to the community,” says Dark.

“We have clients signing up for our food bank every day,” he continues, “and with Food for Fines happening in the springtime, it helps us make sure that our shelves are staying full during the summer months.”

Thanks to the generosity of the community, Food for Fines resulted in the donation of more than 750 pounds of non-perishable food items.

A Food for Fines campaign in Ajax, Ont., collected more than 750 pounds of food

he lives of hundreds of children overseas will be improved because of funds raised through The Salvation Army’s National Recycling Operations’ (NRO) Brighter Days campaign.

The campaign, which is one of NRO’s GoodWorks@Work initiatives, ran throughout March in 108 thrift stores across Canada, raising $73,975.95, a 17 per cent increase over last year’s campaign. These funds will be used to support educational, health and recreational initiatives in Zambia, Pakistan, South America, Brazil and Bangladesh, through The Salvation Army’s Brighter Futures children’s sponsorship program.

“These initiatives are not only assisting with immediate needs but also building a stronger and sustainable future for these children and their communities,” says Michele Walker, NRO director of retail operations.

Over the past five years, the Brighter Days campaign has raised more than $250,000 to help children in need overseas.

“Brighter Days provides significant assistance to impoverished and vulnerable children and youth in the developing world,” says Major Donna Barthau, sponsorship co-ordinator in the world missions department. “There have been many great stories of how sponsorship in the past has enabled children and youth to go on to higher education, training and leadership development. These young people are leaders in their communities and can provide for their families and keep the local economy going.”

Got a story idea? Let us know!

Email salvationist@can.salvationarmy.org Salvationist

June 2018 7

Agree to Disagree While we may differ somewhat in our theological leanings, I am in general agreement with what Lt-Colonel Wendy Swan is saying about engaging in public protest Holy Protest (“Holy Protest,” June 2018). As an organization, the Army seems to seek respectability when we should be fighting on the battle lines against many social injustices. We need to be sure that we stand up for God’s absolute truth. This will put us on both sides of the secular social justice movement at times. Thank you, Lt-Colonel Swan, for your openness on this subject.

John Stephenson Photo: Love Makes a Way

Australian Salvation Army officer Cpt Craig Farrell is arrested after participating in a Love Makes a Way protest in October 2014. With permission from territorial headquarters, Cpt Farrell joined the group’s peaceful occupation of the offices of Richard Marles, a member of the Australian parliament, to protest the country’s treatment of refugees

Lt-Colonel Wendy Swan explains why a public response to injustice is essential to Salvationism.

Human trafficking. Unsafe working conditions. Homelessness. Today’s headlines are dominated by stories of injustice. But as awareness of injustice grows, so does the protest movement that says it must end.

So why should Salvationists engage in protest? Lt-Colonel Wendy Swan, a Canadian officer serving as command president of women’s ministries and chair of the Moral and Social Issues Council, Hong Kong and Macau Command, recently completed her PhD thesis at King’s College London, proposing a theology of protest for The Salvation Army.

In this interview with Kristin Ostensen, associate editor, she discusses protest as political holiness and why the Army shouldn’t be afraid to upset society.

How do you define protest?

Protest is a visible, public response to an issue. There are two parts to that. One is making some form of pronouncement— saying, “Something’s not right here. This is not the way God wants the world to be.” The pronouncement calls for a halt to whatever the injustice may be. But when you take out the injustice, what are you going to replace it with? The second component of protest is an announcement—saying, “This is how God wants us to live. This is how it should be.”

How important is it for Salvationists to engage in acts of protest?

I think it’s non-negotiable. We say we are followers of Jesus, and he protested injustice wherever he found it. His love compels us to share that love in prag-

matic ways. Do our protests need to look identical? Absolutely not. We live in different contexts, families, neighbourhoods—Jesus never said we had to be cookie-cutter Christians.

As Salvationists, how does our call to holiness drive our call to protest?

God calls us to be holy as he is holy. It’s not optional. When we say yes to Christ, we believe that Jesus comes to live in us by his Spirit, and that means we’re going to live differently. If Christ is in us, as we are in the world, then we become the visible, physical representation of him in the world. Even though we are not of the world, we’re called to be in the world. Jesus died for this world, not the next one.

In the 1990s, The Salvation Army

20 June 2018 Salvationist

Two things in response to Lt-Colonel Wendy Swan’s article.

First, Jesus did not deal with injustice everywhere he met it with protest. Remember, he said if anyone forces you to go one mile, go two miles. He was a friend of tax collectors, notorious for overcharging. Second, be careful what “injustices” one

protests. I am certain that there are perceived injustices that do not warrant protests. I can remember that at one time, officers were discouraged from joining abortion protests, and the Army still seems to ignore this issue today. If we can’t bring ourselves to protest what should be as clear an issue as the right to life, why should we protest other issues?

Eugene Gesner For me, this article is well timed. I have been feeling grief for our Army as of late. The Army used to be on the cutting edge of justice, love and mercy, but now it often seems that we are too careful, basing what we do on public (donor) opinion. I’ve read of officers and soldiers being arrested in the early days of the Army for doing the right thing. There’s a great book

by Gordon Moyles called The Salvation Army and the Public that highlights the fact that the Army was at the height of its growth and influence at the times when it has been hated the most. We ought to stop caring what people think and start caring about bringing justice to those in this world who are being mistreated.

Captain Jaclyn Wynne The 21st General After reading this online interview with General-Elect Commissioner Brian Peddle (“The 21st General for the 21st Century”), I feel like The Salvation Army I love and was an active soldier in for many years is in good hands. God bless you, General, as you lead on in the years ahead. My prayers are with you.

Shirley Ronan Summer Joy Holy Days Thank you, Lieutenant Erin Metcalf, for sharing your memories (“Holy Days,” July 2018). Our family had a cottage in Golden Lake, Ont., and the joy you describe is identical to what I felt as I played on the beach, swung S in the old army hammock, and ate Shake ’n Bake chicken with my family around the long table. I sometimes long for those days, too, but I thank Jesus for the wonderful memories and rejoice in the new experiences he is bringing into my life now.

Mary Ellen Scott GRACE NOTES

The rest of summer.

BY LIEUTENANT ERIN METCALF

ummer. For many of us, it means the rush of the school year that dictates the pace of our lives has come to an end. We are invited to slow down and breathe, to enjoy two months of warm, sunny days and fill them with memories. And yet we are so tied to our calendars—whatever we use to keep on top of all our activities—that it seems strange to think about setting them aside for the summer, or even for a moment.

I recall my childhood summers with such fondness, it stirs a place deep inside me, a place I guard fiercely. Summers spent with cousins and family friends.

Summers spent running wild through what seemed like a vast wilderness of open space, with long grass and trees as far as our eyes could see. Summers spent swimming in the lake, hollering to each other to duck under the water when the horseflies began swarming.

I remember the smell of the campfire at dusk as my dad and grandpa created a sacred space for us to share stories, sing and play some instruments. We

For me, that small cottage in Ontario was sacred land, a thin place—where heaven and earth meet and seem to touch.

roasted marshmallows and baked potatoes wrapped in tinfoil. We performed the same skits over and over again for our parents, an audience that never grew tired of cheering and clapping, bestowing on us something beyond our comprehension at the time—the gift of esteem and self-worth.

When the singing and skits were over

and the sun was tucked away for the night, we dared each other to sneak off into the neighbouring graveyard—never sure we would make it out alive. We shared ghost stories in the dark, resulting in hysterical laughter or a terrified trip to the safety of our parents playing board games in the cottage up the hill.

Come Sunday morning, we often found ourselves sitting around the fire once again, for our own version of church—lawn chairs on holy ground.

Lifelong friendships developed as we ran around in the hot sun, playing hide and seek in the bushes. We learned how to be doctors when we happened upon wounded forest creatures, once desperately trying to save a snake with a BandAid. We learned how to be entrepreneurs when we raided cupboards for cookies and baked goods, then sold them back to our unsuspecting parents and used the profits to buy our own candy and treats from the general store. We became amateur counsellors when a heart was broken or an ego bruised from losing a game of chicken. We defied sleep at sleepovers, giggling over crushes.

There was no such thing as being careful or cautious—it was normal for eight-year-olds to race a four-wheel vehicle around the property. We took our cues from my grandfather, a man who saw the joy in every situation and longed to create a wonderland of fun where kids could be kids. We all cheered when he sat on an old kitchen chair, on top of a wooden board, and was pulled around the lake by a speedboat. He showed us that we are only limited by our imaginations.

I miss those days. For me, that small cottage in Ontario was sacred land, a thin place—where heaven and earth meet and seem to touch. In the midst of a busy schedule, I long for more of this peace for myself and my family, for play and deep rest.

Jesus knows our need. He said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). What a beautiful promise. I can’t recreate the past or transport myself back to those summers. But what I can do is find rest in the presence of Jesus, and wait in expectation as he creates new thin places in our lives.

Photo: © Warchi/iStock.com

Root Causes Beyond Charity Thank you to Major Campbell Roberts for providing this distinction between social justice and charity I (“Beyond Charity,” May 2018), especially the need to address systemic causes of injustice. It is my hope that each of us will consider this in our voting decisions at every level of government, and recognize that achieving social justice requires a financial commitment—i.e., an investment, not a tax cut—that generally pays off in a healthier, more equitable society for everyone.

Grace Diffey

Lieutenant Erin Metcalf is the corps officer at Niagara Orchard Community Church in Niagara Falls, Ont.

24 July 2018 Salvationist

All letters must include your name and address, and a phone number or email address where you can be contacted.

Letters may be edited for space and clarity, and may be published in any medium.

Correction Notice In the July issue of Salvationist, we reported on the Booth University College convocation ceremony held in April.

We mistakenly attributed words from a speech given by Laura Hepditch, winner of the Chancellor’s Medal, to Elan Marie Mueller, valedictorian. We regret the error.

Salvationist September 2018 5

FRONTLINES

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Salvation Army Ministry in Gabon Officially Opens

he central African nation of Gabon became the 129th country where The Salvation Army’s presence is officially recognized during a weekend of celebration and prayer in July. The events were led by Commissioners Benjamin and Grace Mnyampi, international secretary for Africa and zonal secretary for women’s ministries, and Commissioners Onal and Edmane Castor, territorial leaders of the Congo (Brazzaville) Territory.

The new ministry in Gabon is overseen by the Congo (Brazzaville) Territory, which sent a large delegation to the special event.

As the work of The Salvation Army officially opened in Gabon, the international secretary for Africa encouraged Gabonese Salvationists to remember that Jesus Christ will build his church, not mere men and women. The Salvation

Salvationists gather to celebrate the official opening of work in Gabon

Army in Gabon, he said, must be built on a foundation of substantial depth so that it is solid and unyielding. Emphasis must be placed on the teaching of the Word of God and fulfilling the Army’s mission.

Commissioner Benjamin Mnyampi took the Gabonese Salvation Army

flag and presented it to Commissioner Onal Castor who, in turn, handed it over to the officers in charge of the work in Gabon, Captains Alexis and Irma Zola. The captains took the flag and marched around the hall while Salvationists followed, saluting and cheering.

Spring Festival Blesses Bermuda

The Bermuda Divisional Band shares a musical selection at the Spring Festival

T

he Bermuda Divisional Band’s 22nd annual Spring Festival, held in June, was its biggest to date, with international guests and strong community support.

The festival featured William (Bill) Himes, former bandmaster of the Chicago Staff Band, who came with his wife, Linda Himes, the London Citadel 6 September 2018 Salvationist

Timbrels, Ont., with Serena Doars, leader of the timbrels and cornet soloist, and Majors Kevin and Loriann Metcalf, then corps officers, London Citadel.

The Spring Festival concert featured a variety of styles—from march to swing, to rock and classical—with five arrangements by Bill Himes. Doars shared a cornet solo, I’d Rather Have

Jesus, and Linda Himes offered a devotional. The evening concluded with a timbrel drill, Since Jesus, an arrangement based on the hymn tune Since Jesus Came into My Heart, by Canadian officer Major Len Ballantine.

A united divisional holiness service followed on Sunday morning at North Street Citadel in Hamilton.

Bill Himes gave the sermon, using the hymn And Can It Be to illustrate how God makes order out of things that, when analyzed, don’t make sense in any mortal way. The London Citadel Timbrels presented two drills, and Doars shared two solos, as well as her testimony. Timbrelist Sarah Robertson also gave her testimony and provided a beautiful rendition of He’s Always Been Faithful, accompanied by Bill Himes on the piano.

Following the service, Salvationists embarked on a march of witness through Hamilton led by the London Citadel Timbrels—a highlight of the weekend for many. The gospel was proclaimed and the community was reminded once again that the Army is alive and well in Bermuda.

FRONTLINES

MAGA Releases New Brass Course

C Lt-Cols Shelley and Edward Hill are coming to Canada and Bermuda in November

New Chief Secretary for Canada and Bermuda

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he Canada and Bermuda Territory will welcome new leaders on November 1, as Lt-Colonels Edward and Shelley Hill are appointed chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries. They will take up their new appointment responsibilities with the rank of colonel.

Lt-Colonels Hill will take the place of Colonels Lee and Deborah Graves, who have been appointed chief secretary and territorial secretary for leader development in the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland. The Hills, officers of the U.S.A. Western Territory, are currently serving as chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries in the Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar Territory.

ontinuing with their efforts to provide effective educational materials to corps across the territory, the music and gospel arts department (MAGA) has released a Brass Course.

“We wanted to develop a resource that could be used by anyone regardless of their musical proficiency,” explains Marcus Venables, MAGA project specialist and lead author of the Brass Course. “The eight levels go from beginner basics to more advanced techniques with step-by-step instructions. These books can be used in large groups or as an individual practice tool for any age.”

The Brass Course complements the Theory Course and Percussion Course previously released by MAGA. All of these materials are available as a free PDF download from the MAGA website and include student course books, instructor guides and tests. Printed copies may be purchased directly from Trade North.

“Whether you are a seasoned music leader or someone who is leading for the first time, these courses are designed to make music learning easier for both student and teacher,” says Venables. “It is our goal that these books will ultimately enhance music ministry across the territory.”

Download the Brass Course at samagacb.com.

Staff Songsters and Glenmore Temple Band Lead Stampede Ministry

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he Canadian Staff Songsters (CSS) journeyed to Calgary in July at the invitation of Glenmore Temple to support The Salvation Army’s Stampede festivities in the city.

On Friday, the CSS and Glenmore Temple Band marched in the annual Stampede Parade, the 103rd time The Salvation Army has participated. The next day, the CSS and the band participated in community events at the Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre and Glenmore Temple, including a pancake breakfast and barbecue. In addition, the CSS and Glenmore Temple Band engaged in open-air ministry on Steve Avenue Mall—a pedestrian walkway in downtown Calgary—where hundreds gathered to listen to the band and songsters for more than an hour. In the evening, the CSS and band performed

at Glenmore Temple’s annual Stampede concert, which was enjoyed by many. The songsters concluded their visit to Calgary with ministry during the temple’s Sunday morning meeting.

Prior to their arrival in Calgary, the

CSS travelled to Banff, Alta., where they sang at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity. This trip to Alberta concluded the second full year of ministry for the CSS, who will release their first CD in the fall.

The Canadian Staff Songsters and Glenmore Temple Band at the Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre

Salvationist September 2018 7

FRONTLINES

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Salvation Army Expands to Vanderhoof

he Salvation Army has extended its reach in northern British Columbia with a new location in Vanderhoof, about an hour from Prince George, B.C. The Army opened a thrift store in the town in May, attracting many residents on opening day who explored the store and contributed more than $2,500 in sales.

“Our new staff did an excellent job of readying the store to open and ensured that all of our guests received top-quality customer service,” says Roy Spooner, community ministries supervisor.

Community leaders and a delegation from British Columbia divisional headquarters took part in the grand opening festivities, including Lt-Colonel Jamie Braund, divisional commander, who performed the official cake-cutting.

The Salvation Army was invited by the District of Vanderhoof to begin operations in the community back in 2016, leading to the formation of a community council advisory group to help the Army assess community needs and develop plans. The Army’s Prince

George Community Church, led by Captains Neil and Crystal Wilkinson, is providing support during the startup phase. Along with the thrift store, other potential initiatives in Vanderhoof include housing support, addictions recovery, spiritual care and other support services.

“As community ministries supervisor, I look forward to building on this first initiative in Vanderhoof so that The Salvation Army is fulfilling its mandate to fill gaps in social services in this wonderful community,” says Spooner.

Thrift Stores Send Kids to Camp

Photo: Steve Nelson

T Dr. Cathy Leach and Doc Severinsen perform with the Canadian Staff Band

A Gospel Gala with Doc Severinsen and the CSB

T

he Canadian Staff Band (CSB) celebrated its 49th anniversary in June by holding A Gospel Gala, featuring trumpet soloist Doc Severinsen and Dr. Cathy Leach, also a trumpet soloist and current president of the International Trumpet Guild.

“The CSB has hosted many high-profile soloists over the years, but few have had the ‘living legend’ status of Doc Severinsen,” notes John Lam, CSB bandmaster. For 25 years, Severinsen was trumpet soloist and leader of the Tonight Show band during Johnny Carson’s tenure as host of the program.

Though almost 91 years old, Severinsen proved to the audience that his level of performance still matches his legendary status.

For the gala, The Salvation Army’s Kevin Larsson wrote five new arrangements for Severinsen, Leach and the CSB, including treatments of The Wind Beneath My Wings, Balm in Gilead, Going Home, In the Garden and When the Saints.

The CSB performed several of their own items including works by Paul Lovatt-Cooper, Peter Graham and a new piece

by Andrew Wainwright. A sensitive tribute to former CSB Bandmaster Brian Burditt, who was promoted to glory in May, was included to round out an exciting, inspiring evening for all in attendance.

8 September 2018 Salvationist

his summer 824 children enjoyed an unforgettable experience at summer camp thanks to the 2018 Send a Kid to Camp campaign undertaken by The Salvation Army’s National Recycling Operations (NRO).

Taking place over six weeks in May and June at 108 NRO thrift store locations, the campaign raised more than $180,000.

Aiming to send 750 kids to Salvation Army summer camps across Canada, this GoodWorks@Work initiative surpassed expectations due to the enthusiasm of local communities and team members.

“Our communities feel strongly about giving that camp experience to underprivileged children. The continued success of this campaign goes to show how valuable attending summer camp is,” says Michele Walker, NRO director of retail operations.

The NRO Send a Kid to Camp campaign has grown steadily for the past eight years. This year was no exception as last year’s campaign collected more than $170,000.

National Recycling Operations representatives present a cheque to Newport Adventure Camp in Huntsville, Ont.

PERSPECTIVES

Coffee Talk Photo: © Sergey Nivens/stock.Adobe.com

The value of listening to different voices.

BY LT-COLONEL JOHN P. MURRAY

I

have a confession to make: I love coffee. In particular, Starbucks coffee. Nothing is more satisfying than walking into a Starbucks and enjoying the rich aroma of freshly ground beans while the barista prepares my order.

I have visited Starbucks locations on four continents and once toured a coffee bean plantation, an official supplier, in Costa Rica. I am a dedicated Starbucks aficionado. The Starbucks experience has a way of connecting people and community, and it all relates directly to the leadership and vision of its former CEO, Howard Schultz.

In The Salvation Army, we accept change in leadership, but we don’t always appreciate it as much as we should, as personnel change is simply part of our organizational DNA. I remember one leader who arrived in the Ontario Central-East Division ready to engage with her leadership team and challenged each of us to read Schultz’s book, Onward.

At first I resisted this approach, but the emails persisted and I was encouraged to order a copy. After receiving one of these emails, I responded by inviting my new boss to join me for a latte at Starbucks every two weeks, where we could discuss and unpack a couple of chapters of the book through the lens of leadership and The Salvation Army.

To my surprise, she quickly accepted my invitation. I ordered the book.

For several months, we met and discussed, analyzed and considered Onward from a leadership perspective.

Since that time, I’ve worked through the book in a similar fashion with teams at divisional, territorial and international headquarters, and each group has offered

unique and important viewpoints that have enriched our collective leadership journey.

For Schultz, leadership is about instilling confidence in others. Throughout history, there are examples of great leaders who have succeeded because of their willingness to consider varying opinions and perspectives. There are also examples of leaders who have failed because of their own insecurities. A wise leader values the counsel and advice of those around them, as it’s essential for leaders and organizations to understand and value the voice and input of all team members. When people are invited to speak into issues and share their opinion, they feel valued and appreciated and have ownership in the process and outcome.

For The Salvation Army to continue to grow, engage and be purposeful in ministry across the territory, we need to ensure that differing voices are heard and considered on key issues and opportunities. This is especially true for the communications team as we seek to support and engage internal and external stakeholders in our work, which is no easy task at times.

As I consider these early days in my new appointment as the territorial secretary for communications, I value and appreciate more than ever the rich diversity of leaders with whom I have been privileged to share in ministry. Having

served on divisional staff for 15 years and at International Headquarters (IHQ), Booth University College and territorial headquarters, I have had the opportunity to work with and learn from a myriad of employees, officers and advisory board members. Additionally, my ministry at IHQ brought greater exposure to the internationalism of The Salvation Army, with travel to India, Africa, Southeast Asia and Europe, which helped me better understand the need to consider culture and context when making decisions.

I’m grateful to the many leaders who have played an important role in my life as an officer. These friends and mentors encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, to share ideas and invited me to “lead up.” Just as these leaders have been encouraging, supportive and faithful, I pray that I, too, would continue to foster this same spirit of Christian leadership and perspective that has helped shape The Salvation Army and who I am as a leader. I look forward to continued growth and development as I engage with others in this journey of service through ministry in the years to come.

And now, in the spirit of learning and community, I’m off to Starbucks for a latte.

Lt-Colonel John P. Murray is the secretary for communications in the Canada and Bermuda Territory.

Salvationist September 2018 9

For His Glory Timbrel leader Serena Doars keeps tradition alive at London Citadel.

or Serena Doars, the highlight of the Boundless 150 Congress, held in London, England, in 2015, wasn’t performing timbrel drills in front of a crowd of 15,000 Salvationists at the O2 Arena. It wasn’t marching down the Mall as thousands of people lined London’s most famous street. And it wasn’t the standing ovation her timbrel group from London, Ont., received after performing with the Angola National Band on Founders’ Day. “You would think that being in the massive O2 Arena would be the highlight but really, for me, it was what happened backstage,” she says. “That’s where we got to connect with the bands we did the concerts with, we got to chat with General André and Commissioner Silvia Cox, we even got to know the stagehands at the Boundless Theatre, a smaller venue at the O2. Getting to know people in a more intimate setting—that’s what was meaningful for me.”

Musical Roots Doars has been leading the London Citadel Timbrels (LCT) for more than a decade, but her musical roots in The Salvation Army go back much further— generations back.

“Both of my grandfathers were bandmasters in Bermuda,” she explains— Bernard Doars Sr. led the band at Hamilton Citadel (now North Street Citadel), and Bradford Simmons, her maternal grandfather, led the Cedar Hill Corps Band. “Both families attended the Army and that’s how my parents met.”

Her father, Bernard Doars Jr., became acquainted with The Salvation Army in Canada in the 1960s after attending music camps at Camp Selkirk and Jackson’s Point in Ontario. “As he made connections, he originally thought he would end up in Hamilton, Ont., or Toronto, but when he heard the London Citadel Band at a festival in Toronto in 1966, he thought, ‘No, that’s where I want to go,’ ” she notes.

Doars was born in London after her parents immigrated in the late ’60s and 10 September 2018 Salvationist

Serena Doars leads the London Citadel Timbrels and plays cornet with the London Citadel Band

has attended London Citadel ever since.

Her musical education started when her father, a euphonium soloist and conductor, taught her to play cornet at the age of seven. Not long after, she started playing in the junior band, and joined the singing company and timbrels.

Doars attended her first music camp, at Camp Glenhuron in Ontario, when she was 12. “That was where I made my first conscious commitment to the Lord,” she recalls. “Growing up in Sunday school, you learn the lessons of the Bible and know that Jesus loves you, but music camp was where I went forward and asked Jesus to come into my heart.”

Banding Together As a teen, Doars played in youth bands at London Citadel and the divisional

youth band, but as she entered her 20s, she found herself at a crossroad.

“I was still playing in the youth band and enjoying it, but I was at a point in my life where I hadn’t been enrolled as a senior soldier yet, and I felt like I needed to make a decision,” she remembers. “I went to National Musical Camp that year, kind of reluctantly, but as the week went on, I decided to rededicate my life to God and become a senior soldier. I then joined the London Citadel Band, knowing it would not be just a short-term commitment, but something I’d do with my life.” That was 1997 and Doars is still a member to this day.

In 2005, Doars was invited to join the Canadian Staff Band (CSB) by then Bandmaster Kevin Hayward. “John Lam, my bandmaster in London, encouraged

Photo: Mark Spowart

F

BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN

me to give it a try and I’m glad he did,” says Doars. “It was an awesome experience!”

During her seven years as a member of the CSB, Doars travelled to many places around the territory and abroad— trips that included running a music camp at a children’s home in Mexico City and playing at the Royal Albert Hall in London, England, in celebration of the International Staff Band’s 120th anniversary (ISB120).

Even on CSB trips, Doars rarely left her timbrel at home. “In the lead-up to ISB120, the CSB did a tour of the Netherlands and Germany, and I was able to put together a timbrel routine for that,” she says. “It was fun—we only had a few women in the band, so we added some of the guys to play with us as well!”

Along with banding, timbrelling has been an important part of Doars’ life and music ministry with The Salvation Army since she was a child. “I’ve always loved it, from the beginning,” Doars says. “It was rhythmic and fun, and we had a great leader, Ruth Rutherford. At the time, I don’t think we realized just how talented she was. We’ve always had a strong history of timbrelling at London Citadel.”

Unique Ministry That history continues today with Doars at the helm of the LCT. “Timbrelling is special because it is unique,” she says. “It’s a visually exciting display—it catches your eye, it catches your ears—and it’s so different that you can’t help but enjoy it.”

The London brigade has always kept a busy schedule, but their profile has grown substantially in recent years. After performing at Canada and Bermuda’s territorial congress in 2014, which welcomed General André Cox, who has recently retired, the LCT were invited to perform at Boundless 150, an international congress honouring the 150th anniversary of The Salvation Army’s founding. London Citadel sent 27 timbrellists to the congress, during which the brigade performed at concerts with the New York Staff Band and Angola National Band, and joined a 200-member strong massed timbrel brigade during a session highlighting the Army’s diversity, among other performances.

Since then, the LCT have performed at the Ontario Great Lakes divisional congress in 2016, and the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California, in 2017, along with many performances in London and the surrounding areas.

Doars with the London Citadel Timbrels at the Boundless 150 Congress in London, England

“Over the last few years our group has been able to take advantage of the experiences that many bands have had for a long time—rehearsing and having devotions together, travelling to different places, listening to great speakers, meeting other Salvationists,” Doars says.

“Many of our members don’t play an instrument, and so typically they haven’t had these experiences.

“Timbrelling has given many young women at London Citadel their own unique ministry,” she continues. “It gives them a voice in the church.”

The brigade’s most recent trip was a special one for Doars—returning to her family’s home in Bermuda for the division’s annual Spring Festival in June (see page 6).

“I’ve always wanted to take my timbrel group there,” she says. “When I go to visit my family in Bermuda, participating in the Sunday morning service is always a highlight for me, even if I’m just in the congregation. The singing, the worship, the message—it’s wonderful.”

Forward March Though timbrels have been a part of The Salvation Army since the 1880s, that tradition remains vital today thanks to groups such as London Citadel’s. One innovation Doars and the LCT have embraced is mixing timbrels with singing.

“In Be Glorified, which was written for us for Boundless 150 by Craig

Woodland, there is a slower movement in the middle of the piece where we rest our timbrels and sing In My Life, Lord, Be Glorified,” she notes. “That’s one of our favourite drills.”

And as with so many other things, the Internet has revolutionized the timbrelling world.

“When we went to Bermuda, I wanted to do a drill to Motivation, a march by Bill Himes, who was the guest conductor at the Spring Festival,” Doars shares. “I found a drill for that online by a group from England, so I messaged them on Facebook and asked if I could teach it to my group. They said, ‘Sure, go for it!’

“That’s not something I ever would’ve done before,” Doars continues with a smile. “Bands share music all the time, and thanks to technology, now timbrels can share moves and learn from each other, too.”

As much as Doars enjoys teaching and performing drills, she says the best part of leading the LCT is seeing her timbrellists build relationships with God and each other.

“Watching them grow spiritually and connect with each other is what makes this meaningful for me,” she says. “We have younger and older members having fellowship together, praying for each other, studying the Bible together. At the end of the day, timbrelling is an avenue for people to give glory to God, and be in fellowship with other Christians.”

Salvationist September 2018 11

NOT CALLED?

“Why Not You?” Commissioner Susan McMillan never contemplated officership, until a journey to Mexico opened a door.

BY KEN RAMSTEAD

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Where She Belonged Commissioner McMillan was born to officer parents at the Toronto Grace Hospital.

“So I’ve been part of The Salvation Army from the very beginning,” she smiles.

She accepted Jesus into her heart as a child at Scotian Glen Camp in Nova Scotia and enrolled as a soldier at North Toronto Corps when she was 14.

Why did she become a soldier?

“It just felt like the right thing to do,” the territorial commander replies. “I’d been in The Salvation Army all my life, and I couldn’t wait to become a senior soldier.

“All my close friends were in the Army,” she goes on to say. “I had other friends at school, but their lives seemed to be falling apart. This is where I belonged.”

Commissioner McMillan’s parents were transferred from Toronto to Victoria when she was a teen. There, she finished high school and started working at the district tax office as a stenographer.

“That tells you how old I am, because nobody knows what stenography is anymore,” she laughs.

From there, she was transferred to Montreal and then transitioned to the offices of The Montreal Star, where she worked as a market research analyst.

“I’d understood exactly what had been said—except I didn’t speak Spanish.”

All the while, Commissioner McMillan continued to be a very involved soldier.

“I was a shy person,” she says, “but I worked hard, and I threw myself into activities, such as leading the youth group.”

And that seemed to be enough.

Fateful Trip That is, until 1975, when she went on vacation to Mexico.

Her tour group was attending a performance of the Ballet Folklórico de México at the Palace of Fine Arts in Mexico City.

Right before the performance began, an announcement came over the PA system: “We regret that flash photography 12 September 2018 Salvationist

Photo: Timothy Cheng

hen soldiers ask me about officership, I reply that they need to be attentive to God’s voice,” states Commissioner Susan McMillan, territorial commander for Canada and Bermuda. “I should know.

It happened to me.”

Commissioner Susan McMillan calls for candidates at this summer’s commissioning and ordination service in Mississauga, Ont.

will not be permitted during the performance.”

Commissioner McMillan turned to the girl next to her and said, “What a shame.”

“What do you mean?” the girl asked her.

“Well,” she replied, “it’s a shame we can’t take pictures.”

“Oh, I didn’t know you spoke Spanish,” the girl said.

“What?” replied a perplexed Commissioner McMillan.

At that moment, the same announcement was repeated, but in English.

“I realized I’d understood exactly what had been said— except I didn’t speak Spanish,” she recalls. “How could I know that?”

“You Tell Them” A day or so later, the tour visited the basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a shrine north of Mexico City that is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Mexican Catholics.

Worshippers often travel the last few kilometres on their knees.

While the tour guide was explaining the significance of the shrine to the tourists, Commissioner McMillan noticed a young woman who was on her knees carrying a baby.

“I could see her knees were bleeding; she’d obviously come a long way.”

“Why doesn’t somebody tell her she doesn’t have to do that?” she thought. “Jesus died so that they can be free. They don’t need to hurt themselves. God doesn’t ask them to do that.”

NOT CALLED? And then, very clearly, Commissioner McMillan heard, “Why not you? Why don’t you tell them?”

It wasn’t the tour guide or a fellow tourist who said those words.

“I heard God say that to me,” she recalls. “When I said what I said to God in my head, he replied, ‘You tell them.’ ” That message stayed in her mind and, when she returned from her trip, she was determined to act on God’s message with the vague idea that she might do some volunteer work in a foreign country, or a mission trip.

“I was young, I could study, I could do whatever was needed, but I didn’t know what I needed to do.”

Accordingly, she wrote to the youth and candidates’ secretary.

“What would I need to do,” Commissioner McMillan wrote, “to go and help in Mexico, and how would I need to prepare?”

“You should come to training college,” he replied.

“So I did. And that’s how I was called.”

Open Door “I think that becoming an officer must have always been in the back of my mind,” Commissioner McMillan says in retrospect. “Growing up with officer parents, I lived the life of an officer and saw and admired what they did. Probably the idea of volunteering in a place such as Mexico was more of a stall tactic than I wanted to admit at the time.”

Very soon after commissioning, the young officer was transferred to Mexico.

From knowing almost no Spanish, within a year she’d moved from being the territorial commander’s secretary to becoming

Commissioner Susan McMillan was commissioned as a Joyful Evangelist

the chief translator and delivering her first sermon in Spanish.

“When asked how I learned so quickly, I replied, ‘It’s a God thing,’ ” she says.

Now, Commissioner McMillan has some advice for those interested in officership, as she once was.

“Take on leadership in your local corps. Go to an officership information weekend. Get somebody to pray for you and with you. And listen to God. Take a step of faith. God’s going to close the door at some point, if it’s not the right thing. So why not try the open door?”

Not Called? is a new series based on the territory’s candidates’ campaign (see sacandidates.ca).

CFOT

The Salvation Army College for Officer Training Canada and Bermuda Territory

Elim Chapel, 546 Portage Avenue | Winnipeg, Manitoba Live stream | Salvationist.ca Salvationist September 2018 13

Mjrs Beverley and Ken Smith host a packed house for the corps’ 135th anniversary in June 2017

Linking Old and New Outreach and community spirit are key to Meadowlands Corps’ success in Ancaster, Ont.

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BY KEN RAMSTEAD

Explorers and Seekers “There’s a sense that we started from scratch in this new community,” says Major Ken Smith, corps officer. “But we are still fortunate to have a lot of people 14 September 2018 Salvationist

Photos: Shawn Washington-Purser

eadowlands is one of the oldest corps in Canada and was originally situated in the city core of Hamilton, Ont. Like the populations of many large cities in Canada, much of the congregation migrated to the suburbs in the mid-to-late 20th century and it just made sense that Hamilton Temple, as the corps was then known, should move as well. Land was purchased west of the city centre in Ancaster, Ont., and after conducting services in a school for five years during the transition period, the corps moved into a brand-new building.

Last year, more than 200 guests joined the corps for their annual Breakfast With Santa event

Photo: Bill Shen

Meadowlands Junior Band

Photo: Bill Shen

who grew up with the old corps when we were downtown, so we brought those long-standing Salvation Army traditions with us.”

“At the same time, we’ve welcomed many families that have joined us since the move,” continues Major (Dr.) Beverley Smith, corps officer. “So there’s this wonderful mixture of old and new at Meadowlands, deep-rooted Salvationist families that have been with the corps for generations as well as new families who have just discovered the Army.”

“While Hamilton has always had a strong Roman Catholic presence, in this day and age, many in the community don’t have a church at all to call their own,” says Major Ken. “What Meadowlands is trying to do is to be a bridge to the explorers and the seekers,” says Major Beverley, “as well as a home for those who already believe.

“Last summer, we mounted a ‘blitz’ around the neighbourhood,” she continues. “We went from house to house handing out copies of Faith & Friends, and some new families came to our summer day camp as a result. One older gentleman who would never darken the door of any church started subscribing to the magazine and regularly comments to his children on the articles he has read. He has a foot in the door now, so to speak, and we may get him into the building yet!”

The outreach program is helped by the size and setup of the building itself.

While Meadowlands has a beautiful sanctuary and offices, it also boasts a gymnasium as well as a kitchen, prayer areas and meeting rooms, not to mention ample green space, perfect for picnics and fun fairs.

Meadowlands Corps is a faithful supporter of the Partners in Mission Appeal

It was a proud moment for Meadowlands when their mortgage was paid off in January of this year

Multi-generational links are one of the keys to the joy felt at Meadowlands

Salvationist September 2018 15

Three generations of Salvationists exemplify the strong bond that Meadowlands has had with Hamilton since its founding more than 135 years ago

Meadowlands has always been well known for its musical component and its band marches regularly in the Hamilton Santa Claus Parade held every year

“We have a number of events throughout the year that we open up to the community, and the response is overwhelmingly positive,” says Major Beverley. “In the spring, we have an Easter egg hunt for the kids. We host community barbecues, garage sales and car washes throughout the year. Last year’s Breakfast With Santa event had a record turnout, with more than 200 people.”

Meadowlands is particularly proud of its music programs, especially the junior and senior bands, and the corps hosts several concert events during the year.

The corps’ ef forts have been rewarded.

“If you pop in here on a Sunday morning, you’ll see more than 150 people worshipping,” smiles Major Ken. Part of the Community Meadowlands is not just limited to Army functions.

“We rent out a lot of our space to

community groups,” notes Major Beverley. “On Tuesday and Thursday evenings, for example, our gym hosts two different ball hockey groups.

None of the players belong to The Salvation Army, but they pass by our sanctuary and see what’s on our walls, so they know what we are all about.

This plants a seed.”

C or p s me m b er s a re involved in all sorts of activThe annual Easter egg hunt is fun for young and old alike ities during the week, from monthly visits to nursing homes to volunteer visits to Army facilities in cultural discipleship and the love felt the city such as Booth Centre and Grace within the corps’ walls. Our youth are Haven, as well as halfway houses and Meadowlands’ hope and future, and our prisons in the Hamilton area. seniors are their examples and mentors.

Photographer Shawn WashingtonThese photos show all of that, and more.”

Purser has taken many of the photos “Meadowlands is a vibrant expreson these pages. “They encompass all sion of faith,” concludes Major Beverley. the joy of Meadowlands,” she says. “The “We’re proud to be a part of the commulti-generational links, the multimunity in which we serve.”

A night out for the women of Meadowlands

16 September 2018 Salvationist

The Salvation Army provides safety and support for vulnerable children in India.

BY MAJOR BILL BARTHAU

Mjr Donna Barthau uses a fun game to teach math skills at a children’s home in Bapatla, India Central Tty

I

n January, as we drove to our accommodation after arriving in Mumbai, a densely populated city on India’s west coast, we saw thousands of people sleeping outside, on narrow streets lined with makeshift shacks. This was my fifth trip to India, but the first with my wife, Major Donna Barthau, sponsorship co-ordinator for the world missions department. We were here to see the work of The Salvation Army, including a number of children’s homes supported by the Brighter Futures children’s sponsorship program, and explore new ministry opportunities.

Our first visit was to the Aruna Girls’ Home, steps away from the India West Territory’s headquarters. The shelter works in partnership with an outreach program in the city’s red-light district.

Sex-trade workers often have few options to care for their children, and the home provides safety and security for 27 girls who are at risk of being forced into prostitution. They are enrolled in school, where they have food and friends, but

more than that, they receive love and support. They are happy and grateful.

Our next visit was to the Sion Children’s Home, where two officers are caring for 73 girls from vulnerable and impoverished families. They receive support from the community—during our time there, people dropped off donations of food, and a doctor provides medical care—and some overseas assistance, but the site has been in use since 1925. One building is in need of significant repair.

Mjrs Donna and Bill Barthau

Major Bill Barthau is the assistant executive director and manager of operations at The Salvation Army’s Jackson’s Point Conference Centre in Ontario. For more information about Brighter Futures or to become a sponsor, visit salvationist.ca/world-missions/brighter-futures.

Salvationist September 2018 17

Photo: Mjr Bill Barthau

Child’s Play

The girls attend a local school and a nearby college offers homework help and coaching for those studying for the Grade 10 government exams. This strengthens their skills and confidence, along with developing positive social skills.

As we watched, some of the girls left for school, neat and well dressed, while others had just returned and lined up for the noon meal. An older girl helped the cook serve. As they sat down, we heard no complaints, just the normal chatter of young people.

They were thrilled to show us where they sleep and how clean and organized they keep the bedroom area. They shared a number of traditional songs, and quickly learned a fun action song in English. When given the opportunity, they were curious and asked many questions. It was interesting to see the breadth of their understanding and insight, along with the desire to explore new areas of thought.

We also visited children’s homes in Bapatla, a town in the India Central Territory, where the Army has a large presence. Many children and youth from rural communities have had the benefit of education because of the homes that The Salvation Army operates. Many of the teachers were once such students, and work faithfully to help the next generation succeed, giving them the skills they need to find employment.

Our time in India gave us greater insight into how critical children’s homes are to The Salvation Army’s ministry in India. When I compare them to my own culture and country, many are underfunded and understaffed. At the same time, I am challenged by the dedication and commitment of the officers and the next generation of officers, employees, teachers and friends as they serve vulnerable children, caring for their bodies and souls. It is truly integrated mission.

We will continue to explore how the Canada and Bermuda Territory, through the Brighter Futures children’s sponsorship program, can partner with this significant social outreach ministry and provide hope for the future.

Moral Support A youth mentorship program at Westminster Park Corps bridges the generation gap.

A

pollo May is, by his own admission, not a great bowler. But then again, neither is Bob Toonders, his mentor at Westminster Park Corps in London, Ont. “Both times we went bowling, our team lost,” 11-year-old Apollo says with a laugh. “But we always make the best of it. It’s not about winning, it’s about having fun.”

The bowling night is an annual event that brings together all the children and adults involved in the corps’ PAL program. The program has been a mainstay at the corps for 25 years, connecting 112 junior soldiers with older Salvationists since it began.

“PAL will never go out of style,” says Linda Frost, junior soldier sergeant and co-ordinator of the program. “We all need relationships, and that’s what keeps children in the corps.”

18 September 2018 Salvationist

BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN Making a Mentor The purpose of the PAL program is simple: to foster supportive interpersonal relationships between young people and mature Christians in a corps setting. The name is an acronym for “prayer and love.”

“PAL gives the children somebody they can talk to, who they know is taking an interest in them and is praying for them,” says Melissa Sunnuck, corps leader. “The senior PAL is a mentor, a person outside their family who will support them.”

At Westminster Park, the PAL program is tied to junior soldiership—the children are matched with a senior PAL while taking the preparation classes but don’t learn who it is until the enrolment ceremony.

“We try to keep it a secret,” notes Sunnuck. “The kids are super-excited to find out who it will be.”

Matching each junior soldier with a

mentor is a careful process, Frost emphasizes. She consults with the parents and corps leaders, and prays over the possible candidates, before approaching someone.

But church members often volunteer to be senior PALs even before they are asked.

“The program has really worked in our corps and I have to admit it isn’t my doing,” says Frost. “It’s the corps people because they’re so supportive of the young people and willing to invest their time.”

Keep Connected There are currently 19 children involved in Westminster Park’s PAL program, which is structured around three major annual events—a back-to-school pizza party in the fall, bowling in the winter and minigolfing in the spring. The events are enthusiastically attended—32 children and adults participated in the

Participants in Westminster Park Corps’ PAL program enjoy a night of minigolfing in June

program’s minigolf event in June.

“These events, when we all get together as a group, provide a nice way of getting to know everyone, and they give the children something to look forward to,” says Frost.

Between the major events, junior and senior PALs stay connected through the weekly Sunday meeting.

“The kids look forward to seeing their senior PALs each week,” says Sunnuck.

“They come through the door, and they’re yelling out their name, making a beeline to give them a hug or to tell them about their week at school.”

The PAL program also features prominently on junior soldier renewal Sunday, when the senior PALs stand and pray with their junior PALs as they reaffirm their Junior Soldier Promise.

“A lot of the senior PALs go above and beyond—for example, attending school events, celebrating birthdays and meeting with the kids outside of corps activities,” says Sunnuck. “It’s great to see those relationships develop over time.”

Role Model Apollo was enrolled as a junior soldier two years ago, and his younger brother, Atticus, followed earlier this year. “I felt like that was the next step in my Christian faith,” Apollo says. “I wanted to be closer to God and I loved the Junior Soldier Promise—it made so much sense.”

Being matched with Toonders was a pleasant surprise. “He is a good person,” Apollo says. “He’s very kind.”

Toonders has been involved with the PAL program since 2010; Apollo is his third junior PAL. “It’s a passion of mine to see boys grow up into young men, and make sure they get pointed in the right direction,” he says. “I think that is what the PAL program is trying to do and I take that seriously.”

Toonders’ passion for mentorship is evident in his relationship with Apollo, his mother, Destiny Quackenbush, confirms. As a single parent, she greatly appreciates the role Toonders plays in her son’s life.

“For Apollo, having a male mentor has had a huge impact on him,” she says.

“He and Bob have connected so well. It’s great that he always has someone there for him, whether it’s just someone to chat with, or if he has a question about his faith.”

The additional support has been particularly important for Apollo as he has faced difficulties at school. “He gets bullied for not being like the other kids,” Quackenbush explains. “He was depressed, and his mental health has improved greatly since he joined the PAL program. He’s more confident now.”

“It’s good to have someone you can speak to, someone who will understand,” says Apollo. “I feel like Bob understands me.”

Along with emotional support, Toonders helps Apollo in practical ways.

“Apollo loves to read and he lost his Bible

“I pray for Apollo every day,” says Bob Toonders of his junior PAL

so I gave him my old iPad,” Toonders notes. “Now he can read his Bible electronically and he doesn’t have to carry piles of books with him all the time.”

As a self-employed contractor, Toonders also shares his business knowledge with Apollo, who dreams of being an entrepreneur himself one day. “It’s interesting to know someone who runs their own business,” Apollo says. “You can ask him questions like, ‘Is it hard?’ and ‘How do you do it?’ and he’ll give you answers.”

“It blesses my heart every time I see the junior PALs go to their senior PALs looking for advice or encouragement,” says Sunnuck. “Those relationships are important, not only to the child, but also to the adult because they pour their heart and soul into these kids.”

After his marriage ended, Toonders did not have as much contact with his children as he wanted. Being a senior PAL gives him another opportunity to be a father figure.

“I have a good relationship with my children now,” says Toonders, “but, in a way, PAL is allowing me to make up some of the lost time with my own boys.”

After two years of friendship, Apollo is confident that Toonders was just the right PAL for him. “I feel like God wanted me to have Bob instead of anyone else, like he specifically chose Bob.” United in Christ Though the children officially age out of the PAL program once they are too old to be junior soldiers, Sunnuck notes that the connections continue long after the program ends.

“A long-standing member of the church passed away in April,” she says, “and in his Bible, he still had notes and pictures from his junior PAL, who is now married with children of his own. He kept those things for 15 years because they were that important—he took his responsibility as a PAL that seriously.”

Thanks in part to the PAL program, Westminster Park is a multi-generational corps, which has been a key to the church’s growth, says Sunnuck. “As we look out on our congregation every week, we are blessed to have a lot of children, but we’re also blessed to have a lot of wisdom that comes with age,” she says.

“We need all of that to be able to function properly.”

Toonders agrees. “The PAL program is part of what holds the corps family together.”

Salvationist September 2018 19

From Cover to Cover

In 2007, Salvationists unearthed a treasure. Housed at Booth University College, the Geneva Bible is a rare piece of our history.

I

n the special collections room of Booth University College’s John Fairbank Memorial Library— safely housed from fluctuations of sunlight—is an artifact unique to the Winnipeg institution and The Salvation Army.

Printed in 1578, it is a large pulpit edition of the Geneva Bible, named for the city where its team of English collaborators worked on it during the Protestant Reformation of the 16th century.

Journey to Booth UC The story begins in 2007, when The Salvation Army’s divisional headquarters for the Prairie Division was relocated to the College for Officer Training building on Vaughan Street.

As part of that move, Majors Al and Karen Hoeft went through boxes and boxes of materials that had been collected over the course of more than a decade. For years, The Salvation Army had acted as executor for estates that 20 September 2018 Salvationist

“It’s been used for multiple purposes and wasn’t something put on a shelf and forgotten; it is a book with a history.” had named the Army as a beneficiary, and it was not uncommon to receive a donor’s personal belongings. Several such boxes that had been collected as part of one estate were sorted in the move, and in one of them was the Geneva Bible.

“It was likely donated to the Army and someone recognized its value, but didn’t know what to do with it,” surmises Meagan Morash, Booth University

College’s director of library sciences. “So it was carefully boxed and placed in an interior storeroom away from sunlight.”

“We put that Bible aside, and following the move, did a little research and became convinced that it was old and needed more attention and care than we could offer,” continues Major Al Hoeft.

“We took it to Meagan, who graciously agreed to assume responsibility for the Bible as part of the library’s rare-books collection.”

“I have a rare-books background, so I was fairly certain that this was an original,” Morash says. “But I also made inquiries to other academic libraries with rare-books collections, and people with expertise in that area.”

Transatlantic Mystery While most Geneva Bibles were smaller editions for individual use, this particular version was meant for use in churches. Sometime after 1611, however, this folio found itself in the hands

Reprinted from Booth UC Connect, Spring/Summer 2018

BY KEN RAMSTEAD

of the Ducklings, an upper-middle-class English family.

Like so many families throughout history, the Ducklings recorded the milestones that occurred in their lives—births, deaths, marriages—in their Bible. But some of the younger Ducklings left their own special marks on the book, such as the childish but carefully repeated signature of Elizabeth Duckling (b. 1659), on the end pages, as well as drawings of birds and dragons that enliven a few margins.

After the Ducklings, a family called the Lakes owned the Bible from 1795 to 1908, and they, too, recorded their life events in it for posterity. From 1908, however, until 2008, the historical trail goes cold, and its passage from England to Canada remains a mystery.

Impact “From a collector’s point of view,” Morash says, “our Bible would not fetch very much, due to the fact that somewhere in the last 100 to 150 years it was rebound and some pages were professionally repaired, and because of the marginal drawings. But it’s precisely these human touches that make it so fascinating and priceless from a human-interest and historical point of view. It’s been used for multiple purposes and wasn’t something put on a shelf and forgotten; it is a book with a history, a real history. It’s a book that’s lived.”

And the Bible has not been put on a shelf at Booth University College and forgotten, either.

“I try to showcase it when I can,” says Morash. “This past fall, I brought it to one of our introduction to Christianity classes in conjunction with the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, in which the Geneva Bible—a Bible that people could read in their own language—played a key role. I watched the students. Looking at something that old, it does something to a person. Unlike in Europe, we rarely see things that old in Canada—and our Bible is almost 500 years old. It made an impact.”

Metaphor for an Institution Why is this Geneva Bible such an important holding for Booth University College and The Salvation Army? For Morash, it’s a metaphor for both.

“For one thing,” she says, “it was once a church Bible, and I think it is interesting and appropriate that ours now

belongs in the library of a faith-based institution. For another, it was the first publicly accessible English translation of the Bible. And that mirrors a strong belief of The Salvation Army, that people need to be able to read Scripture for themselves, that salvation is between you and God, not between you and a priest and God. “Lastly, I like the parallel that our Bible travelled from England to Canada, in the same way that early Salvation Army members came from England to Canada.

“I hope that one day we will find out how the Bible came into our hands,” Morash continues. “It was well taken care of by someone who, if not a Salvation Army member, was a friend of the Army.

Maybe someone out there reading this is related to those last owners. Wouldn’t that be a mystery to solve!”

Did You Know?

The Geneva Bible was commonly known as the “Breeches Bible” as its translation of Genesis 3:7 says that Adam and Eve “sewed figge tree leaves together, and made themselves breeches.”

The Geneva Bible

“It’s a book that’s lived,” says Meagan Morash of Booth University College’s Geneva Bible

The Geneva Bible of 1560 differed from its predecessors in that it contained not only the Old Testament, Apocrypha and New Testament but also a dictionary of names, maps and chronological charts. It was the first English Bible to introduce numbered verses and was purposefully printed in a small, affordable size to enable individual ownership and personal reading. One of the most important additions was the marginal commentary notes printed alongside the verses—providing clarification, exposition and textual criticism—that wouldn’t appear again in general public editions until 1881. It was the most popular English version of the Bible in existence, going through 180 editions before being superseded by the King James Version.

Salvationist September 2018 21

ETHICALLY SPEAKING

Know the warning signs.

BY MAJOR KAREN PUDDICOMBE

V

anessa (not her real name) was raised by a single mom who worked two jobs to make ends meet, and often came home to an empty house. She dreamed about having nice things, but what she wanted most was someone to “see” her. Then her school bus driver started to take an interest in her life. He was kind and made her feel safe. When he told her about a great job opportunity, she was excited—but her excitement turned to fear and confusion when he took her to a local strip club. At the end of the night she received $150.

To a 15-year-old girl, it seemed like a fortune. For the next six years, Vanessa was trapped in the world of exploitation.

Vanessa was “groomed” by someone who should have been trustworthy. Statistics show that 93 per cent of victimized children and young people know their abuser, and the average age to recruit someone into exploitation is 13. Not in your backyard? Think again. It can happen in your own home.

Today’s youth have access to sexual images at their fingertips 24-7. Texting or posting risqué photos or videos on social media has become common. Recently, a police officer told me that even his daughter had been caught up in the trend. Teens yearn to fit in, to belong, to be noticed, and may not realize the 22 September 2018 Salvationist

What Can Families Do? • Listen without judgment. Far too often, we are quick to judge and talk when someone needs to be heard—listen intently with your ears and eyes.

• Notice who is paying increased attention to your child (boy or girl)—teachers, coaches, neighbours or family members. These individuals may be “grooming” the youth and developing an unhealthy attachment with them.

• Teach them to say NO. We live in such a polite society in Canada. Teach your child that it is OK to say no and empower them to use their voice.

• Be sensitive to changes in behaviour or attitude. Face it: the teen years are a roller-coaster of emotions and feelings that are often hard for parents to grasp. Don’t give up. Talk through these changes.

• Talk about sex and sexuality in a healthy way. If we don’t teach our kids, they will learn from other kids or the Internet.

Have the difficult conversations.

• Create healthy boundaries. Help your children form a framework of what is healthy and what is not. Trust in the values of God’s Word to guide you.

• Get to know their friends. Invite them over for meals, talk about activities and what your child will be doing during down times; discuss online safety. Many families have created a technology table where all electronics sit from 10 p.m. until morning.

• Create a family code word. Every family needs a code word known only to them. If a teen is feeling uncomfortable or in danger, they can use the word to alert you that they need to be picked up right away.

Sexual exploitation is closer to home than we think. As parents, we want to respect our children’s years of learning and growing, but we are still their protectors. Know what is going on in your child’s life so you can support them. Pray that you will see signs of exploitation if it is happening. Pray for your children’s friends and acquaintances. Pray for justice for all children and youth, and take action.

Major Karen Puddicombe is the corps officer at New Hope Community Church in Orangeville, Ont.

Photo: © MarijaRadovic/iStock.com

Ending Exploitation

consequences of their actions. They may also lack the maturity to understand what a healthy relationship is, and settle for something that feels like love. This puts them at great risk.

Here are some warning signs that a young person may be experiencing exploitation: • Changes in attitude: withdraws from family and friends; becomes secretive and reserved; exhibits extreme mood swings—angry and confrontational or abusive; is protective of new boyfriends/girlfriends.

• Changes in behaviour: comes home later than usual for unexplained reasons; binge eats or eats less, resulting in weight loss; hangs around with new and different group of friends; wears expensive clothing or jewelry they can’t afford; wears clothing that is bulky or provocative; uses blocked or private phone numbers; carries condoms or other sexual aids; is secretive about Internet sites and contact.

• Indications of physical abuse: has unexplained bruises, cuts or broken bones; has tattoos or branding symbols, particularly names tattooed on their neck, arms or legs; has cigarette burns on their body.

GRACE NOTES

Crossing a Line Separating families is immoral and unbiblical.

BY LIEUTENANT ERIN METCALF

Photo: © Suriyawut Suriya/iStock.com

O

ne night, after tucking my kids in bed, I sat on the couch and scrolled through Twitter. As they slept peacefully in the next room, I read about the horrible situation that, at the time, had been taking place at the United States-Mexico border, where families were being separated. But it was a story of reunion, not separation, that broke my heart.

The scene took place in an airport, where a mom waited anxiously, surrounded by official, but kind-looking, men and women. As a child entered the room, the mom ran to embrace her daughter, sobbing and falling to her knees. I watched, dumbfounded, as the child stood limp for what seemed like an eternity while the mom hugged her and cried. Finally, small arms reached up and the embrace was reciprocated.

It was like the child needed a moment to realize it wasn’t a dream—that her mom was really there, in person, hugging and holding her. It was hard to watch.

Tears streamed down my face, but I couldn’t turn away.

So many pieces clicked. I don’t have a background in psychology, but I knew beyond a shadow of uneducated doubt that this child was hesitant to react because of unbearable trauma. She didn’t know how to respond because she had been ripped from the safety and security of loving arms and thrown into a cell, with no promise of resolution, no explanation of what would happen next and no one to console her as she struggled to understand all that was taking place.

As the pair crumpled on the ground hugging and sobbing—lament and gratefulness spilling out of the mother in her own beautiful language—the camera panned to the other people in the room.

Something good had been done and they were part of it.

I’m not going to pretend I know all the ins and outs of what’s happening in the United States. The complicated politics are far beyond what I have the capacity and time to fully comprehend.

Not every child will ultimately be reunited with a parent.

I am, however, a follower of Jesus, and I know that the forcible separation of parents and children is evil.

The Salvation Army stood in opposition to this policy as well, issuing a statement on June 20, 2018, that included this bold message, “Separating children from their parents at the United States border has no place, directly or indirectly, in American immigration policy or practice, and the truth that this has happened already for thousands of mothers, fathers, sons and daughters, brings us to our knees in prayer for their well-being, a speedy return to one another, and an immediate stop of the practice.”

An Army on its knees is powerful and our prayers joined with thousands of others. Although this policy was revoked, the effects of its enforcement

are still playing out in devastating ways all across the United States. Perhaps the most troubling fallout from the “zero tolerance policy” is that not every child will ultimately be reunited with a parent. Some parents can’t be found, some may already have been deported, some require further investigation.

Let us continue to pray for these families. Let us continue to be a bold voice in this battle against injustice. The united voices and prayers of hundreds of thousands of believers and non-believers who refused to simply stand by and watch this senseless policy tear children from parents’ arms were loud enough to force a change for the better.

In his book Love Does, author Bob Goff says, “I used to think I needed to pick sides, but now I know it’s better to pick a fight.” As Christians, we need to make sure we are battling injustice.

Sometimes this means picking a fight.

And now I’m going to go hug my kids.

Lieutenant Erin Metcalf is the corps officer at Niagara Orchard Community Church in Niagara Falls, Ont. Salvationist September 2018 23

CROSS CULTURE

New Website Chronicles Army History

BY JOSEPH HALLIDAY

I

n an organization with a history as long as The Salvation Army, it is tempting to look to the past—and there are good reasons for doing so. With more than 150 years of history, we find fascinating stories and colourful characters that inspire us, giving us ideas and providing us with a sense of optimism about what can be achieved. We can also learn from occasions when things haven’t gone so well.

There is a danger in dwelling too much on our history, however. Sometimes it can place undue pressure on us, leaving us disappointed when we do not get the same results in different cultures and times. Sometimes we might try to copy what has been done before instead of emulating the spirit of these things and working out why they were a success. And sometimes we might treat the Army as a museum, instead of a living church.

It is vital that we use the past to inform and encourage us to mobilize and go forward. To that end, International Headquarters has developed a new website, “Transforming lives since 1865: The story of The Salvation Army so far.” With eye-catching images and videos, it’s designed to be captivating to a wide audience.

Above all, we want those who visit the website to be left with the sense that this is an Army not just of the past, but of the present and the future, too. It tells the story of the first brass band, and also shows how contemporary dance groups are motivated by that same desire to worship God and bless

others. It explains the origins of the Army’s social work—In Darkest England and the Way Out being key—and describes how this looks today through our schools, health projects and other programs. A full-screen map under the “international” section uses intervals of 10 or 20 years to depict the spread of the Army since 1865.

From the vision of William and Catherine Booth, a huge Army of people following God has grown in all corners of the planet. It naturally prompts one to wonder, “Where will God take us next?”

Joseph Halliday is part of the IHQ communications team. Explore “Transforming lives since 1865: The story of The Salvation Army so far” at story.salvationarmy.org.

Church “Detains” Jesus, Mary and Joseph to Protest Immigration Policy

24 September 2018 Salvationist

Photo: Christ Church Cathedral/Twitter

S

tatues of baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph are usually found in a Nativity scene—but not at Christ Church Cathedral in Indianapolis. In July, the church placed the statues behind a barbed-wire topped, chain-link fence as part of its #EveryFamilyIsHoly campaign, drawing international attention. This campaign protests the American government’s “zero tolerance” policy, which has resulted in families being arrested at the U.S.-Mexico border and kept in cage-like holding cells at detention centres.

“Holy Scripture is clear about how we are to treat people trying to find safety for their families—we are to show mercy and welcome them,” Stephen Carlsen, dean and rector of the church, explained in a statement. “We will not stand by while children are being taken from their parents, and families are being taken from our communities and congregations.”

Statues of the Holy Family are placed behind fences at Christ Church Cathedral

The U.S. Salvation Army released a statement condemning the government’s recent practice of separating children and families at the border, saying it “has no place, directly or indirectly, in

American immigration policy or practice … we call on federal public officials to find solutions that will quickly reunite these families and prevent this tragedy from happening in the future.”

CROSS CULTURE

NEW FROM SALVATION ARMY AUTHORS A Safe Arrival

BY SONJA SOUTHWELL A Safe Arrival is a compelling memoir from retired Salvation Army officer Sonja Southwell, which shows the triumph of faith over fear in difficult circumstances. The story centres around her parents, Ryer and Johanna van Kralingen, officers who served in Holland and in the Netherlands East Indies (now Indonesia) from the 1930s to 1950s, including the harrowing period of the family’s internment by the Japanese during the Second World War. With photographs of the family, PoW camps, war documents and more, this meticulously researched book adds an untold chapter to published histories of the Asia-Pacific and Indonesian Independence Wars. The title of the book references a plaque Southwell’s parents had in their living room: God has not promised us a calm journey, but a safe arrival. This book is a testament to that truth.

The Book of Revelation: A Non-Scary Approach, Volume 2

IN REVIEW Larsson in Brass

The ISB Plays the Music of John Larsson INTERNATIONAL STAFF BAND The International Staff Band (ISB) has recorded a new CD to mark the 50th anniversary of the first Gowans and Larsson musical, Take-over Bid. Writes General John Larsson (Rtd): “I am grateful to the ISB for this initiative. I believe the CD will be of interest to Canadian Salvationists not only because of the brilliance of the playing but also because of the way that our musicals have been featured in the territory over the years. The CD tracks are by some of the most outstanding arrangers past and present of Army brass music—and that includes [Canadian composer] Marcus Venables. The tracks range from major overtures of our musicals to items based on single melodies, and from exquisite devotional numbers to sparkling cornet and trombone ensembles.”

The Boat People

BY PHILIP W. DAVISSON For many people, the Book of Revelation is a strange, intimidating part of the Bible, full of symbolism that may baffle modern readers. With his The Book of Revelation: A Non-Scary Approach series, Major Philip W. Davisson aims to give lay readers a non-technical, practical guide. “The principle underlying these books is that we read for meaning—we’re looking for something that is relevant to our lives,” Major Davisson explains in the introduction. Volume 2 begins with a summary of Volume 1, which covered Revelation 1:1–8:5, before moving on to examine Revelation 8:5-16:21. With illuminating scholarship that shows how Revelation relates to the rest of the Bible, the book concludes each chapter with a summary and reflection questions to further help readers understand the content. The forthcoming final volume will cover Revelation 17-22.

BY SHARON BALA This novel follows Mahindan, a refugee from Sri Lanka’s bloody civil war who reaches Vancouver’s shores with his six-year-old son as part of a group of 500 “boat people.” Instead of finding refuge, they are thrown into a detention processing centre, with government officials and newspapers speculating that the group includes terrorists who pose a threat to Canada’s national security—putting Mahindan’s asylum application in jeopardy. The Boat People is told through the alternating perspectives of Mahindan; his lawyer, Priya, a second-generation Sri Lankan Canadian who reluctantly represents the refugees; and Grace, a third-generation Japanese Canadian adjudicator who must decide Mahindan’s fate. Based on a real-life event that took place in 2010, this timely novel makes a compelling case for compassion as the world confronts an ongoing refugee crisis.

Social Holiness: The Company We Keep

The First Testament: A New Translation

BY JONATHAN S. RAYMOND “All company of others brings consequences,” writes Jonathan S. Raymond in Social Holiness.

“The central premise of my writing is that we become the company we keep and, if so, then let us keep company with those who keep close company with Christ.” In his new book, Raymond, a lifelong Salvationist and former president of Booth University College, examines holiness as a communal, rather than individual, pursuit. He writes about the “ecology of holiness” as a relational context of grace and growth, with the ultimate purpose of unity with God and others. For Raymond, social holiness is summed up in Jesus’ prayer: “ … that they may be one as we are one—I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity” (John 17:22-23)—underscoring that holiness is always grounded in community.

BY JOHN GOLDINGAY Translation is a tricky business. Many modern translations of the Bible aim to make the text more accessible to today’s readers by updating the language or providing “dynamic equivalence.” But with this new translation of the Old Testament, John Goldingay goes in the opposite direction, inviting readers to hear the strange accent of the Hebrew text. Goldingay’s word-for-word translation aims to stay as close to the original text as possible, giving fresh life to familiar passages and providing new insights into the language, culture and worldview of the ancient Israelites. With introductions to each book, The First Testament could be used for classroom as well as personal study.

Salvationist September 2018 25

PEOPLE & PLACES

OSHAWA, ONT.—The corps family at Oshawa Temple celebrates as five people are enrolled as senior soldiers. Front, from left, Janet Briard, Nancy Cooper, Joshua Corrigan, Drew Burt, Jake Moore, RS Linda Leigh and Cols Lynette and Lindsay Rowe, then COs. Back, Charlie Ball, holding the flag.

SHAWINIGAN, QUE.—These are exciting days at Église communautaire Nouvel Espoir as four senior soldiers and three adherents are enrolled. Front, from left, Lt-Col Gilbert St-Onge; Robert Conway, Angèle Huard, Roger Gagnon and Georges Legault, senior soldiers; Nicole Dupuis and Claude Boisvert, adherents; Col Glen Shepherd, DSBA, Que. Div; and Fernand Legendre, adherent. Back, from left, CSM Johanne Roy and Marie-Rose Rosseau, hold the flag.

KENORA, ONT.—Alice Jardine (left) receives an award recognizing 40 years of volunteer service as the Christmas kettle campaign co-ordinator in Kenora.

Making the presentation is Laurie Beck, regional advisor for the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration.

SWIFT CURRENT, SASK.—Richard Parr is commissioned as the corps sergeant-major at The Salvation Army Community Church in Swift Current. Supporting him are Mjrs Don and Elizabeth Grad, COs.

OPEN THE DOOR

TO ADULT EDUCATION

CORNER BROOK, N.L.—Corner Brook Temple celebrates as three junior soldiers and two senior soldiers are enrolled. Front, from left, Oliver Dwyer, Aiden Leonard and Sophie Hancock, junior soldiers. Back, from left, Sandy Randell, junior soldier preparation class teacher; Luke Flight and Noah Hamilton, senior soldiers; and Mjrs Pamela and Cory Pinksen, then COs.

salvationarmy.ca/giftsofhope 26 September 2018 Salvationist

ELLIOT LAKE, ONT.— Kade Yake is enrolled as a junior soldier at Hope Church. With him are Mjr Marilyn and then Cpt Sean Furey, COs, and Perry Tucker.

PEOPLE & PLACES

ACTON, ONT.—Young people and their leaders at Acton CC stand together following their leadership of a recent Sunday service under the theme “Shine!” Front, from left, Sabrina Wainwright, Claire Walsh, Kyndra Goodwin, Conor Walsh, Ryan Thompson and Kerri Armogan, assistant leader. Back, from left, Marilyn Ritchie, acting YPSM; Jennifer Daamen; Alicia Daamen; Beverley Daamen; Elisabeth Armogan; Abigail Beisel; Mjr Rick Pollard, CO; Trent Beisel; Nathan Armogan; and Mjr Drucella Pollard, CO. TORONTO—Basakoli musicians, guests for a recent Partners in Mission Sunday at North Toronto CC, share a moment with Cpts Jeff and Shannon Howard (left), COs; Lt-Col Brenda Murray, director of world missions; and Colonel Lee Graves, chief secretary.

HARE BAY, N.L.—Salvationists and friends gathered to celebrate 119 years of Salvation Army ministry through the Hare Bay Corps. This was an especially significant time for the corps family as they prepared for their amalgamation with nearby Dover Corps.

Weekend events included an anniversary dinner, historical displays and the wearing of high-collar uniforms and bonnets. Cutting the anniversary cake are, from left, Mjr Calvin Collins, CO; MacKenzie Smith, junior soldier; Boyce Vivian, retired CSM and longest-serving senior soldier; and Mjr Beryl Collins, CO.

FREDERICTON—An emergency disaster services (EDS) training event in Fredericton brought together more than 30 people for small group exercises and discussions. On hand to support the event and give leadership are, from left, Jan Keats, EDS co-ordinator, Maritime Div; Mjrs Dan and Renée Dearing, COs, Fredericton CC; Perron Goodyear, territorial EDS director; Louise Armstrong, EDS and volunteer co-ordinator, Saint John; and Larry Moss, EDS co-ordinator, Fredericton.

OTTAWA—Lt-Col Jim Champ (right), then secretary for communications, leads a delegation from the Canadian Council of Churches, of which The Salvation Army is a member, on a visit to Parliament Hill to meet with Senator Art Eggleton, co-chair of the All Party Anti-Poverty Caucus. The senator showed a deep concern for those trapped in poverty and expressed strong support for a basic guaranteed income for all Canadians.

To purchase your copy of this daily Salvation Army devotional, visit store.salvationarmy.ca, email orderdesk@can.salvationarmy.org or phone 416-422-6100 today.

For the ebook, visit amazon.ca.

Salvationist September 2018 27

PEOPLE & PLACES

Accepted for Training Messengers of the Kingdom (2018-2020) College for Officer Training, Winnipeg Sarah Burford Chatham-Kent Ministries, Ontario Great Lakes Division Our calling is to love Jesus and to share that love with others. More specifically, part of my calling is to help coach and counsel women, helping guide them into who God has made them to be. I’m hoping God will use CFOT as a place where I cling to him more and more every day so he can strengthen me to be all he wants me to be.

Danielle Feltham Winterberry Heights Church, Stoney Creek, Ontario Great Lakes Division I first felt God’s call when I was a little girl. As I grew up, there were many professions that I considered, but becoming an officer was always one of them. It eventually reached a point where I could not picture myself doing anything else except following the call that God placed on my heart.

April Keeping Brantford Community Church, Ontario Great Lakes Division I felt God’s call on my life at a leadership weekend in April 2017. My husband, Brandon, and I met officers who had a similar story to ours, which made me realize God was calling me to officership. We prayed with our corps officers when we returned home and were able to discern God’s clear, surprising call on our lives.

Brandon Keeping Brantford Community Church, Ontario Great Lakes Division Officership is a vehicle to live out God’s calling on my life. My wife, April, and I will be able to work together as a team to bring the good news to those who need it most. I’m excited to be part of a community of leaders who are all serving differently toward the same goal: saving souls.

Bill Mailman Berkshire Citadel Community Church, Calgary, Alberta and Northern Territories Division During a sermon series on following God’s call, our corps officer asked what is the scariest thing God could ask us to do. My wife and I turned to each other and jokingly said, “Officership.” Our officer concluded the series by stating that if God calls us to something, we should just do it. We discovered that God had been working on us separately and we have chosen to accept his call.

Renee Mailman Berkshire Citadel Community Church, Calgary, Alberta and Northern Territories Division Officership means full-time ministry, getting out there to meet the needs of people and fulfilling the calling that God has placed on my life. I believe my time at the training college will equip me for service by increasing my knowledge and providing practical experience in ministry.

28 September 2018 Salvationist

GAZETTE INTERNATIONAL Appointments: Sep 1—Lt-Cols Yaqoob Masih/Sumitra Yaqoob, CS/TSWM, India Central Tty; Nov 1—Colonels Lee/Deborah Graves, CS/territorial secretary for leader development, United Kingdom Tty with the Republic of Ireland; Lt-Cols Edward/Shelley Hill, CS/TSWM, Canada and Bermuda Tty, with rank of col; Mjrs Garth/Patricia Niemand, CS/TSWM, Southern Africa Tty, with rank of lt-col; Dec 1—Comrs Floyd/Tracey Tidd, TC/TPWM, Australia Tty (designation change); Cols Mark/Julie Campbell, CS/TSWM, Australia Tty (designation change) TERRITORIAL Births: Cpt Bethany/Lt Brian Dueck, daughter, Sophia Rose, Jun 8; Lt Stephanie/Mr. Paul Melchiorre, son, Theodore Panfilo, Jun 10; Cpts Joshua/Joyce Downer, son, Theophilus “Theo” Lancelot, Jul 4; Lts Chad/ Lisa Cole, daughter, Genevieve “Ginny” Marie, Jul 17 Marriage: Lt Barry Austin to Lt Jesse Byers, Jun 18 Appointments: Mjr Michael Hennessy, community and family services co-ordinator, Belleville, and community ministries program supervisor, Napanee, Ont. CE Div; Mjr Rock Marcoux, CO, Christian Community Centre of The Salvation Army, Montreal, Que. Div (additional responsibility) Promoted to major: Cpts Debra/William Blackman, Cpt Sean Furey, Cpt Weldon Hayward, Cpts Elaine/Richard Honcharsky, Cpts Rachele Lamont/ Jean-Curtis Plante, Cpt Dwayne LeDrew, Cpts David/Lisa Macpherson, Cpt Elizabeth Nelson, Cpt Raelene Russell, Cpts Gordon/Karen Taylor Promoted to captain: Lts Darryl/Kim Burry, Lts Colleen/Justin Gleadall, Lts Leonard Heng/Peck-Ee Wong, Lts David/Laura Hickman, Lts Peter/ Ruth Hickman, Lts Anne/Randy Holden, Lts Joshua/Tina Howard, Lts Vilma Ramos/Ricaurte Velasquez, Lts Dusty/Laurie Sauder Long service: 25 years—Mjr Glenda Davis, Mjrs Deborah/Randolph Gatza, Mjrs Cindy/Norman Hamelin, Mjrs Douglas/Karen Hammond, Mjr Kent Hepditch, Mjrs Annetta/Murray Jaster, Mjrs Lisa/Patrick O’Doherty, Mjr Louise Pond, Mjrs Janice/Peter Rowe, Mjr Miriam Stevens; 30 years—Mjr Wendy Broome, Mjr Catherine Brown-Ratcliffe, Mjr Ross Grandy, Mjrs Gwendolyn/James Hagglund, Mjr Lee Anne Hoeft, Mjr Roxanne Jennings, Mjr Patricia McInnes, Mjr Donette Percy, Mjr Robert Reid, Mjr Sterling Snelgrove; 35 years—Colonel Lee Graves, Lt-Col Ann Braund, Lt-Col Wendy Swan, Lt-Cols Frederick/Wendy Waters, Mjr Wilfred Brown-Ratcliffe, Mjr Barbara Carey, Mjr Ronald Cartmell, Mjrs Dean/Margaret Locke, Mjrs Jane/ Richard Shirran, Mjr Roy Snow; Mjrs Kathryn/Kester Trim; 40 years—Mjrs Everett/Violet Barrow, Mjr Larry Bridger, Mjr Beverley Buell, Mjr Gary Cooper, Mjr Sandra Hosken, Mjr Wayne Loveless, Mjr Charlene Randell Retirements: Jul 1—Mjr Lee Anne Hoeft; Aug 1—Cpt Rose Campbell; Sep 1—Mjrs Doug/Joanne Binner Promoted to glory: Mjr William (Bill) Blackman, from Langley, B.C., Jun 28

CALENDAR Commissioner Susan McMillan: Sep 1 final program, Territorial Music School, Scarborough Citadel, Toronto; Sep 14-16 cadets’ welcome weekend, CFOT; Sep 17-18 Leaders’ Summit, Winnipeg; Sep 19 Territorial Executive Conference, Winnipeg; Sep 26-28 NAB, Ottawa Colonels Lee and Deborah Graves: Sep 15-16 cadets’ welcome weekend, CFOT; Sep 17-18 Leaders’ Summit, Winnipeg; Sep 19 Territorial Executive Conference, Winnipeg; Sep 21-22 Booth UC board of trustees meeting, Winnipeg*; Sep 21-23 Ont. GL Div’s women’s retreat, JPCC**; Sep 27-28 NAB, Ottawa; Sep 28-30 integrated missions conference, Twin Ponds Camp, Gander, N.L.** (*Colonel Lee Graves only; **Colonel Deborah Graves only) Canadian Staff Songsters: Sep 29-30 Woodstock, Ont.

PEOPLE & PLACES

TRIBUTES GUELPH, ONT.—Lt-Colonel Margaret Helen (Morrison) Hetherington was born in Hespeler, Ont., in 1935, and moved with her family to St. Marys, Ont., where she completed her secondary school commercial education.

With an aptitude for finances, Marg worked on the corps books and at the Royal Bank. In 1957, she married Lloyd Hetherington and moved to Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., where she was involved in corps finances and women’s ministries, and worked at the Royal Bank. They welcomed two children, Gregory and Sherrill, but a growing discontent with life’s comforts prompted them to enter training college. Following commissioning, they were appointed to Zambia where they served at the Army’s Chikankata Secondary School and the Chikankata Nurses’ Training School. While serving in Zambia, they welcomed a son, who lived only a short time, and a daughter, Denise. Returning to Canada, they served from 1976 to 2000 at Guelph Citadel, Ont., the Colleges for Officer Training in St. John’s, N.L., and Toronto, and the then Catherine Booth Bible College in Winnipeg. In retirement, before experiencing a massive stroke, Marg was active in women’s ministries and Bible studies at Guelph Citadel. She is missed by her husband, children, grandchildren, extended family and friends.

WINGHAM, ONT.—Mrs. Captain Vera Linkletter was born in Waltham, Boston, in 1924, and raised by her grandparents in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Vera’s grandfather was a United Church minister and, as a teenager, she had an encounter with God that changed her life. Vera met Borden in Halifax, who served overseas with the military for four years. Transferred to Toronto by her employer, Vera was brought to Toronto Temple by her sister, Jean. Married to Borden in 1945 in Halifax, throughout the years they attended Halifax North, Calgary Hillhurst and Edmonton Northside Corps. Following his retirement after 27 years in the military, God called them to full-time ministry. Beginning in 1967, they served in Fort Erie, Midland, Sault Ste. Marie, Smiths Falls, Timmins and Wingham, Ont. Vera faithfully taught the Word of God, led women’s ministries, youth work and community outreach. Retired in 1987, Vera attended Suncoast Citadel in Goderich, Ont., and led Precept Ministries Bible studies and women’s night out. Predeceased by Borden in 1990, Vera was promoted to glory in her 94th year and is sadly missed by children Gordon (Elizabeth), Doreen (Bob), Bruce (Lynn), Brian (Mirtha), Wayne, and Krista (Gary); grandchildren; great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; sister, June; extended family and friends.

OSHAWA, ONT.—Brian William Burditt was born in 1948 in Hamilton, Ont., and grew up at Argyle Citadel, where he played in the band and was bandmaster of the young people’s and senior bands. Brian’s love of music and passion for teaching served him well as he taught music in Hamilton schools for 20 years. Married to Susan Wilson in 1971, they welcomed three children. A gifted musician, Brian was an inaugural member of the Canadian Staff Band (CSB) when it reformed in 1969. Following a time as the CSB’s deputy bandmaster, he was appointed bandmaster in 1985, a role he held with distinction for 19 years (1985-2002 and 2006-2008). In 1988, Brian became the territorial music secretary for Canada and Bermuda. A highlight of his tenure in this role was the International Brass Spectacular in 1994 to mark the CSB’s 25th anniversary. In 2002, Brian’s ministry focus expanded when he became the director of world missions, managing international development projects supported by the Army and CIDA. Retiring in 2010, Brian continued to play in the Oshawa Temple Band, led Heritage Brass, and played in the Conway Citadel Band in South Carolina when he and Susan travelled south. Brian is remembered by his wife, Susan; children Matthew (Kristin), Andrew (Shona) and Rebecca (Brady); 10 grandchildren; mother, Marguerite; sisters Barbara (Don) and Sharon (Larry); nieces and nephews.

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Major Lillian Norman was born in Long Pond, N.L., in 1931 to James and Selina Porter. Lillian was commissioned as a Salvation Army officer in 1952 as a member of the Intercessors Session. She married the love of her life and partner in ministry, William Norman, in 1955.

Together they served in congregations throughout the island of Newfoundland. One of the highlights of their ministry was a mighty revival as they ministered in Point Leamington, N.L. Lillian was known for her powerful sermons and gentle spirit. Predeceased by her husband in 2000, Lillian leaves with loving memories daughters Beverley (David) Harvey and Major Valerie (Brian) Wheeler; son, Paul; and her special prince and grandson, Zachary Wheeler; brothers Stan (May) Porter and Fred Porter; nieces, nephews and friends. “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever” (Daniel 12:3).

GANDER, N.L.—Albert Calvin (Cal) Way was born in Bonavista, N.L., and promoted to glory at the age of 78. Cal studied wireless communications in St. John’s, N.L., and meteorology in Edmonton, and worked for 35 years with the Federal Ministry of Transport as a radio operator and then flight service specialist. He loved music and studied banding methods through The Salvation Army in London, England. Cal faithfully served as bandmaster of Gander Citadel Band for 34 years during which time the group was often called upon to participate in special occasions, such as Remembrance Day parades and 9/11 memorial services. In 1988, he became bandmaster of the first divisional youth band in the then Newfoundland Central Division, a position he held for 20 years. Cal was a strong supporter of Army music camps and taught many young people to play an instrument and use their talents for God’s glory. Left with loving and cherished memories are his beloved wife and best friend for more than 55 years, Edna; sons William (Bill) and Brian; daughters-in-law Judy and Corina; grandchildren Alicia, Amelia, Alexander, Rachel, Kylie and Mykala; brother, Wilmore, and his friend, Emily; sisters-in-law Marion Taylor, Ruth Warren, Carrie Gill and Emma Snow.

KITCHENER, ONT.—Born in 1939, Lloyd Vickery was promoted to glory from Kitchener’s Forest Heights Long Term Care following a long battle with Parkinson’s disease and other related issues. Lloyd was an active Salvationist all his life, serving as bandmaster for a number of years and filling in wherever needed. His commitment to Mountain Citadel in Hamilton, Ont., and the corps band were second only to his family. Lloyd received the Queen’s 50th Jubilee medal in recognition of his strong work ethic displayed during his 30 years at Stelco Hamilton and 17 years as a federal employee. He filled his days with the things he enjoyed most, including camping in the summer, classic cars, hobbies, helping neighbours to shovel snow, contributing to various service projects and working with Big Brothers in Ontario and the Youth Justice program in Cochrane, Alta. A well-worn Bible found in Lloyd’s glove compartment bears witness to his devotion to the Lord and legacy of a life well lived. He was known as Gramps, Great-Gramps, Uncle Lloyd, Dad V. and Mr. V. by many young people. Predeceased by his daughter, Sharon, in 1977, Lloyd is remembered

by Elizabeth Vickery, his wife of nearly 60 years; son, John (Perri-Anne); daughter, Leslie (Rick) Blaikie; 10 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

Guidelines for Tributes

Salvationist will print tributes (maximum 200 words), at no cost, as space permits. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Tributes should be received within three months of the promotion to glory and include: community where the person resided, corps involvement, Christian ministry, conversion to Christ, survivors. A high-resolution digital photo or high-resolution scan of an original photo (TIFF, EPS or JPG; 300 ppi) should be emailed to salvationist@ can.salvationarmy.org; a clear, original photograph mailed to 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto ON M4H 1P4 will be returned.

Salvationist September 2018 29

SALVATION STORIES

A trip to Zimbabwe changed my life.

BY ANDREW DOLAN

“I am seeking to grow in trust in Christ. I know he has a plan for me,” says Andrew Dolan

T

he hospital is that way, my house is that way and your apartment is over there.” And with that, I was on my own in rural Zimbabwe, where I’d come to volunteer with Dr. Paul Thistle at The Salvation Army’s Howard Hospital. It was the summer after my first year of university as a pre-med student when I decided to gain experience in the field of rural and missionary medicine.

After a few emails sorting logistics, and with help from the generous congregation at Toronto’s Scarborough Citadel in purchasing tickets, I was on a plane. Three flights and 24 hours later, I arrived in Harare, Zimbabwe, where I had a flash of panic—I had no idea who would be picking me up, if they would recognize me or if they even knew when I was expected to arrive. So began God’s lesson in trust. (Dr. Thistle did, in fact, come to meet me.)

The staff at the hospital were extraordinary people. I spent time in the 30 September 2018 Salvationist

pharmacy, clinic and surgery department, assisting with minor procedures.

I watched as the medical staff worked tirelessly, with limited resources, to help every patient they could.

At the Army services I attended, the power of God’s presence was so real.

After the sermon—which a member of the congregation translated for me— everyone went forward to the mercy seat.

Close to 100 people, from children to elders, went to worship, to be closer to God, and to praise him for his faithfulness. It was overwhelming to experience this level of trust and dependence on God, despite disease and injury, uncertainty and heartbreak.

Trust isn’t something that comes naturally for me, and it’s even harder in a society in which we have the illusion of control. We take safety, security and comfort for granted.

When I returned to Canada, I found it easy to drift in faith, easy to forget that everything we have—family, friends,

Photo: Steadman Bowers

A Lesson in Trust

health—is from God, especially when we are encouraged to think otherwise.

Having faith in a higher power is seen as weak or foolish. I hear people argue that it wasn’t God who provided for them; it was through their own strength that they achieved great success.

I have been guilty of that from time to time, of failing to recognize that when God shut a door, my new path was one he provided, not one that I forged myself.

After completing my degree at the University of Toronto, I was accepted to a few medical schools internationally, although I was unable to accept these offers due to a number of circumstances.

Instead, I transitioned to finance, something I’d always been interested in but never had the chance to explore, and completed an MBA. My goal is to support overseas medical ministries in a tangible way, primarily because I’ve seen the incredible impact these ministries have on individuals and communities.

Today, I’m married to my lovely wife, Haley, and we recently celebrated our first wedding anniversary. I work in finance where I get to meet all sorts of incredibly smart and talented people. We attend Northridge Community Church in Aurora, Ont., where I play with the worship brass. And in the rest of my free time, I play flugelhorn in the Canadian Staff Band.

Though sometimes difficult, I am seeking to grow in trust in Christ. I know he has a plan for me and continues to work through me, even though society may disagree or look down on me for my dependence on God. One verse that I take to heart is this, “You, Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3 GNT).

Dolan plays flugelhorn in the Canadian Staff Band

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