inside this week concert raises millions for japan ......salvationist 7 may 2011 5 international...

INSIDE THIS WEEK

Concert raises millions for Japan disaster responseHong Kong

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PLUS LOTS MORE!

PAGES 11–13 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

PAPERS

2 7 May 2011 SALVATIONIST www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS

■ FA CUP FINAL: A TALE OF TWO CITIES

■ TURN TO THE MIDDLE FOR A LAUGH AND A GIGGLE

■ WIN A MINI REMOTE-CONTROLLEDROBOT

■ PERCY THE PENGUIN

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS Tel: 0845 634 0101SALVATIONIST 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN Tel: 020 7367 4890 Fax: 020 7367 4691 Email: [email protected] Web: www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

A registered newspaper published weekly by The Salvation Army (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) on behalf of the General of TheSalvation Army and printed by benhamgoodheadprint Limited, Bicester, Oxon. © Linda Bond, General of The Salvation Army, 2011. The SalvationArmy Trust is a registered charity. The charity number in England and Wales is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

EDITOR Major Stephen Poxon Tel: 020 7367 4901 MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson Tel: 020 7367 4891 ASSISTANT EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley Tel: 020 7367 4892 ASSISTANT EDITOR Claire Anderson Tel: 020 7367 4894 DTP DESIGNER Colin Potter Tel: 020 7367 4895 DTP OPERATOR Denise D’Souza Tel: 020 7367 4896 GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jonathan Carmichael Tel: 020 7367 4883 ADMINISTRATOR Stella Merino Tel: 020 7367 4881 ADVERTISING Tel: 020 7367 4883 Email: [email protected]

DISTRIBUTION Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66-78 Denington Road, Denington Industrial Estate, Wellingborough NN8 2QH Tel: 01933 445451 Fax: 01933 445415 Email: [email protected]

THE SALVATION ARMY FOUNDER William Booth GENERAL Linda Bond TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner John Matear EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Leanne Ruthven

CHRISTIANS SHOULD SMILE MORE

Churches are not playhouses and priests are not ordained to ‘make-merry’ but our faces aremeant to reflect the inner workings of our soul. If we leavechurch with a bleary-eyed

demeanour what must peoplethink of our church? What doesour face say about the Church weso love? Think hatch, match anddispatch with an added hint ofgloominess and slumped shoulders.Ryan Service writing in The Catholic Herald

TEACHERS’ UNION FAITH SCHOOL PLEA

The law must be changed tostop faith schools discriminating against applicants because of their sexuality and recruiting staff on the basis of religion, sayteachers. Free schools, many of which are founded on religious principles, will exacerbate the problem, according to a motion passed…at the National Union of Teachers’ annual conference in Harrogate.The Times

LETTING CHILDREN DRINK AT

HOME ‘RAISES RISK OF TEEN

ALCOHOL PROBLEMS’

Parents who let their

children have the odd

glass of wine or bottle of

beer at home when they

are in their early teens are

doing them more harm

than good, according to

a study.

Many mothers and

fathers think that allowing

their children to have a

supervised drink is a good

way of exposing them to

alcohol safely and

removing its illicit thrill.

But research has

suggested that the

practice sends mixed

signals that result in

children being more likely

to abuse alcohol in their

teenage years…

Two years ago, Sir Liam

Donaldson, then England’s

chief medical officer,

said children under 15

should never be given

alcohol, even though it

is legal for parents to

give a child over the age

of five alcohol in the

home.The Daily Telegraph

■ ‘I AM NOT GLORIFYING SEX,DRUGS AND VIOLENCE’ SAYSMOBO WINNERGUVNA B

■ SPEAKER’SCHAPLAIN VOTES‘YES’ TO MIXINGFAITH AND POLITICS

NEWSPages 4 – 9 & 19 ⟩⟩⟩⟩SouthernBedlingtonCoventryCityRomfordSkewenWilliamstownHongKongIvoryCoastIpswichCitadelLongEatonRhylChelmsfordTringTenbyBromleySunderlandMillfieldNewZealandMiddleEastHorshamClaptonKilmarnockSouthendCitadelGuisboroughExeterGranthamKnottingleyNorwichCitadelLeigh-on-SeaL’IsletRochdale

LETTERS

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BIBLE STUDY

When is ‘then’?Page 10 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

FEATURE

Life below the linePages 11 to 13 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

INTERVIEW

A face and a voicePages 14 & 15 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

NEW COMMITMENTS

Pages 16 & 17 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Army people, engagements,tributes and captioncompetitionPages 18 & 19 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

ADVERTS

Pages 20 – 23 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

COMMENT

[email protected] SALVATIONIST 7 May 2011 3

IWISH I could testify that Satanput up a fight to prevent mebecoming a candidate. So far asI could tell, he wasn’t bothered one

way or the other about whether I did or not. This troubles me slightlywhenever I hear people say, of others,such things as, ‘You must be doing amarvellously splendid Kingdom work if the Devil is sufficiently worried about you to personally step down from his dung heap and launch a campaign of intimidation’, and so on.Beelzebub only ever flung at me amaths form that stumped me withquestions about how many songbooksan officer might wish to purchase – thatsort of thing.

That blow to foolish pridenotwithstanding, I became a candidate,and was comforted by the gift of a free

cap from Major Beryl Beamish, as shewas then; one that had been left behind by a candidate with the same size headas mine, who had gone to fightelsewhere.

Tomorrow is Candidates Sunday,when we seek to encourage those whohave stepped out towards officership.Of course, as General Linda Bondreminded us at her welcome meeting,this is by no means an Army for officersonly. Everyone has a place on thebattlefield. It is, though, healthy toremember, at least once a year, thosemen and women whose vocation will indue course result in them possessing,with apologies to hymnwriter JohnMason Neale, if not wealth, then rank.

Somewhere in a box in my garage(we’ve not yet unpacked everything), Ihave my framed dedication certificate,dated December 1965 and signed byCaptain Bert Menary. This yellowingpiece of paper tells me I was dedicated‘For God And The War’.

I’m afraid I don’t know enough aboutGod to know whether my dedication onthat winter’s morning is directly linkedwith my having subsequently becomean officer. The Bible hints at such thingscoming to pass, but then I also know ofscores of babies who were dedicatedwith a great deal of brouhaha and whoprobably won’t come anywhere near theArmy again except for the trivial roundand common ceremonial task of whatwe might call ‘hatches, matches anddispatches’.

All the more reason, then, to securesuch lives and deaths in prayer, andwith Candidates Sunday on the horizon,what better time to start!

With the greatest respect to Captain(now Lieut-Colonel) Menary and a highregard for Army tradition, my dedicationcertificate is, ultimately, but parchment.There is a certain responsibility upon usto pray for our candidates, that theymay increasingly know the inwardrealities represented by those external symbols.

MAJOR STEPHEN POXON, EDITOR

The greatestadventure of all

‘I caught the bus to DenmarkHill. I remember pausing for amoment as I went up the stepsof the International TrainingCollege and saying to myselfwistfully: “The moment I walkthrough those doors I will neverbelong to myself again”… Lifehas been a great adventure.’

(From General John Larsson’s Saying Yes To Life )

4 7 May 2011 SALVATIONIST

NEWS

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

Seekers respondSouthernDIVISIONAL Commander Lieut-Colonel Graham Owen introducedthe leaders of the divisional cele-bration, Colonels Brian andRosalie Peddle (THQ), to a capac-ity congregation at Boscombe.

Pre-meeting music includedcontributions by PortsmouthCitadel Band, the Southern YouthChorus and the Aldershot AfricanChoir and a video recording byformer divisional leaders Lieut-Colonels Neil and Chris Webb(Papua New Guinea Territory).

The meeting was charac-terised by a blend of reflectiveand rousing worship, inter-spersed with music by thesections. A video presentationshowed the breadth of work atThe Haven Community Centre(Portsmouth Citadel) and Candi-dates Alison and Mike Hutchings(Guildford) shared their callingthrough an interview.

Later in the meeting, ChiefSecretary Colonel Brian Peddlespoke on the Prayer of Jabez andchallenged people to widen theirsphere of mission and ministry.At the conclusion of hismessage, the Chief Secretary leda time of prayer and reflectionduring which the mercy seat wasused by many seekers. – G. O.

Band witnesses topassers-byRomfordWITHIN a short time of arriving on Saturday after-noon, the 40 members of the West Midlands YouthBand were entertaining and witnessing to hundredsof passers-by in the shopping centre.

Their evening programme included ‘To A GodLike This’ and featured soloists Callum White(cornet), Jonathan Evans (trombone) and Sam Ellis(xylophone). The theme for Sunday morningworship was The Light Of The World and a seekerknelt at the mercy seat at the conclusion of themeeting. Stuart Farmer led evening worship, whichincluded the pieces ‘Dance Like David’ and‘Amazing Race’. – M. W.

On Mother’s Day the YP band at Williamstown plays in the meeting forthe first time, assisted by corps officer Major David Wise, Ken Symonds,Gordon Williams and meeting leader Major Cora Joy Tucker (DHQ)

Coventry City Band provides music at a Palm Sunday celebration atCoventry Cathedral attended by Christians from many churches in the city

Songsters bring in the crowdsBedlingtonLEIGHTON Buzzard Songsters visited the corps as part of songsterweekend celebrations. Lieut-Colonel Rob Garrad (IHQ) accompaniedthe section and brought much blessing with his talks.

The songsters sang ‘Blessed Be The Lord My Strength’ and ‘Ev’ryTime I Feel The Spirit’. They also presented ‘Song Of Jesus’, ‘Joy ToThe World’, ‘The Crucified’ and ‘Christ The Lord Is Risen Again’, linkedby Bible readings. There were full halls for all three meetings. – K. O.

Youth choirs present gospel musicSkewenNEXUS Youth Choir (West Midlands) and the divisional youth choir,Alive In Him, presented an evening of gospel music at the MemorialHall. Nexus began by dancing onto the platform and singing ‘GiveYou The Glory’. After the opening prayer and introductions theirleader explained that the choir chose the name Nexus because theyare connected to God, each other and The Salvation Army. Othersongs included ‘My Life In Your Hands’ and ‘Taste And See’.

In Adverts For God, members of both choirs used drama to high-light the importance of the fruit of the Spirit in their lives.

After the interval Alive In Him contributed various songs including‘What A Faithful God!’ and ‘Blessing And Honour’. The choirs unitedto sing ‘Cleanse My Heart’ which was linked with drama and closingthoughts by Divisional Youth Officer Captain Martyn Watson (WestMidlands). The programme concluded with the choirs singing ‘I’m ABeliever’. – S. L.

SALVATIONIST 7 May 2011 5

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

[email protected]

Concert raisesmillions forJapan disasterresponseHong KongA CONCERT broadcast live on television raised more than$3.3 million for The SalvationArmy’s earthquake and tsunamiresponse programme in Japan.The event was organised by film star Jackie Chan (bottompicture) and featured artists wellknown in Hong Kong andaround the world.

The three-hour concert, enti-tled Artiste 311 Love BeyondBorders, took place in HongKong’s Victoria Park. Starstaking part included actor andsinger Andy Lau, actor DonnieYen and singers from HongKong, Japan, South Korea andChina. American singer LionelRichie performed from Australiavia satellite link, singing ‘SayYou, Say Me’.

Hong Kong-born Mr Chantold entertainment websiteHollywood Reporter why hedecided to arrange the concert:‘For years my Japanese fanshave made a great effort to raise money for my charity, to build schools in China and to help the victims of the [2008] Sichuan earthquake. It’stime for me to return the favour and do what we can tohelp.’

He personally paid for theplane tickets and accom-modation for all the overseasperformers.

All profits from the concertwill be passed on to The Salvation Army. More than 300 Salvationists and Sal-vation Army staff from the Hong Kong and MacauCommand took telephone dona-tions during the event (see toppicture).

The exact use of the funds isstill being decided but it is likelythat much of the money will beused to supply emergency reliefpacks – including a 15-daysupply of food and water,personal care and hygiene products and blankets – topeople in areas affected by theearthquake, tsunami and byproblems at the FukushimaDaiichi nuclear power station. – A. R.

Salvation Army considersresponse to refugee situationIvory CoastA CONSTITUTIONAL crisis has led to manypeople fleeing the country to seek safety in neigh-bouring Liberia and Ghana. The Ghana Territoryand Liberia Command are both assessing how bestto respond because The Salvation Army does notcurrently have a presence in the Ivory Coast.

Territorial Commander Colonel Charles Swans-bury (Ghana) writes: ‘We have been advised by thedivisional commander near the border [with the

Ivory Coast] of the distressing condition of manyhundreds of escapees who have recently crossedinto Ghana. They have little clothing, shelter orpersonal resources.’

The Liberia Command leadership sent a team ofthree officers to the border where more than 30,000refugees had been registered by the United NationsHigh Council for Refugees. The team reported thatconditions for the refugees were very poor and thatthere was a great need for food, water, bedding,medicine and clothes.

Salvation Army leaders from Liberia and Ghanahave applied to International Headquarters forfunding so they can begin work with the refugees.– A. R.


NEWS


Chelmsford Bandsman Garry Smith presents Judy Grocott ofHavens Hospices with a cheque for just over a thousandpounds, the proceeds of a charity concert which was part ofGarry’s fundraising effort for the London Marathon; alsopictured (from left) are vocal soloist Hayley Stubbs (DerbyCentral), compère Major John Mott, Martin Blessett (tuba,Peterborough Citadel) and leader of the Citadel Gospel ChoirJohn Mitchinson (Southend)

Corps holds first CameoweekendIpswich CitadelMAJORS John and Lorna Smith(Adult and Family MinistriesUnit, THQ) chaired the Saturdayevening programme when thecorps held its first Cameo clubweekend. Andrew and PaulineEmeny (Harpenden) and theirdaughter Liberty were the guestmusicians, presenting vocal,piano and trombone solos. Theband, timbrel group and severalclub members also took part.The majors led Sunday meet-ings, which were bright, interest-ing and thought-provoking.

Since the inauguration of theclub, some members have begunto attend Sunday worship. – D. S.

Long Eaton: Former corpsofficers Majors Adrian andDonna Coupe (NorthamptonCentral) led an inspiring 132ndcorps anniversary weekend,focusing on the theme GoingGod’s Way. The Saturdayevening music festival raised£350 for the Army’s JapanDisaster Fund. – I. Y.

Young people at Rhyl celebrate prizegiving on Mother’s Day with youngerchildren from the parent-and-toddler group; several parents and carersfrom the group were attending their first Army meeting when they wentto the café church-style service

Celebrating its 125th corps anniversary, Tenby holds an open-airmeeting down by the River Cleddau;

during the anniversary year thecorps aims to hold open-air

meetings and celebrations in all thetowns in Pembrokeshire where the

Army flag once flew

Tring: The Craft Club cele brated its seventhanniversary with a visit from Time To Sow– a Christian craft company. The membersfind companionship and fellowship at theclub and have found it particularly helpfulduring difficult times. – S. K.

Concert supports studentsSunderland MillfieldA CHARITY concert in aid of Barbara Priestman School and Technology College – for students with autistic spectrum disorder, phys-ical disabilities and complex learning needs – ensured a packed hall andraised £615. Headteacher Carolyn Barker received a cheque for theamount, which will be used to provide a smallholding for the school.

Several students who took part in the concert were performing inpublic for the first time. David Gillson (trumpet/cornet, Stock ton) wasthe guest soloist and the corps band and songsters took part. Cat Hewardand David Smith gave a humorous rendition of ‘The 12 Days Of Christ-mas’ and the timbrelists added variety to the programme. – S. N.

Bridge Project successBromleyA SUNDAY evening thanksgiving meeting recognised the BridgeProject, which began two years ago to raise funds for internationaldevelopment projects as well as community programmes in the UK.

Donations and various activities – including a car wash, a sale, asponsored walk and an arts and crafts exhibition – helped to raise£10,258 for street children in New Delhi, bush ambulances in Malawi, McRoberts Eye Clinic, India, and St Christopher’s Hospice, Sydenham. – B. L.


NEWS

[email protected]

Army mournsloss of MaorileaderNew ZealandTHE Salvation Army is mourn-ing the loss and celebrating thelife of one of its most influentialmembers after Auxiliary-CaptainHohepa (Joe) Patea, co-leader ofThe Salvation Army’s indige-nous Maori work, was promotedto Glory.

Aux-Captain Patea – togetherwith his wife, Aux-Captain TeaoKauirangi (Nan) Patea – played apivotal role in strengthening theArmy’s Maori work, assistingcorps, social service centres andSalvationists across the country.His fluency in te reo Maori (theMaori language) and understand-ing of Maori tikanga (culture andprotocols) were critical factors inhelping the Army better servewithin the bicultural context ofAotearoa (New Zealand).

Joe met the Army in 2002when he took part in a stageproduction called The Home- coming at Wellington City Corpsthat toured internationally. Al -though Joe was from a Catholicbackground and his wife Nanfrom an Anglican one, neitherwas a practising Christian. Butthe seeds of commitment werebeing sown in their lives.

The couple became adherentmembers and then took the stepof becoming soldiers. Joe said:‘We wanted to be uniformedsoldiers but, more than that, wewere called to be soldiers. Wewanted to be immersed in TheSalvation Army.’

Joe and Nan were appointedco-leaders of Salvation ArmyMaori Ministries on 22 June2006, serving part-time and thenfull-time. He led numerouspowhiri (formal welcome cere-monies) at major Salvation Armyevents, always with great dignityand humour. Joe and Nan werecommissioned as auxiliary-captains on 15 February 2007.

Joe was the respectedkaumatua (elder) at the BoothCollege of Mission, home to theOfficer Training College, wherehe made a considerable contri-bution in building future Armyleaders. He enjoyed sharing hisfaith with inmates at RimutakaPrison’s Maori Focus Unit and inWellington Prison.

Together, Joe and Nan became

a taonga (treasure) to the Army,giving themselves as culturalresources to Salvation Armyleadership and the wider Army,but Joe said he simply sawhimself as a ‘pononga o te Atua’(servant of the Lord).

Joe’s faith in God remainedstrong and his strength camefrom the knowledge that Godwas with him. He did not let hishealth concerns hold him backfrom his calling and ministry. Joesaid his calling could be found inJohn 15:16, where Jesus says:

‘You did not choose me, but Ichose you and appointed you togo and bear fruit – fruit that willlast.’ He was promoted to Glory,aged 62, on 4 April 2011 from aWellington hospice.

‘Kua whawhaitia e ahau tewhawhai pai, kua omakia tokuomanga, kua rite i ahau tewhakapono’ – ‘I have fought thegood fight, I have finished therace, I have kept the faith’ (2Timothy 4:7).

Well done, good and faithfulservant of Jesus! – C. T.

Aux-Captain Joe Patea with a group of cadets and Maori Ministrymembers at the 2010 Mission Congress in New Zealand; the groupperformed a haka based on William Booth’s ‘I’ll Fight’ speech

Salvationists join togetherin celebrationMiddle EastMORE than 260 delegates from the United ArabEmirates (UAE), Oman and Kuwait gathered inDubai to celebrate the growth of The SalvationArmy in the Middle East Region. Unfortunately,delegates from Bahrain were denied travel visasbecause of unrest in that country. The SalvationArmy has officially been in operation in the regionfor three years in Kuwait and one year in the UAE.

Middle Eastern delegates were joined in their cele-brations at the Deira City Centre Hotel, Dubai, byTexas Brass Band from the USA Southern Territory,members of the newly formed Middle East AdvisoryBoard and Colonel Ross Gower (Under Secretary forSouth Asia, IHQ). The event was hosted by regionalleaders Majors Mike and Teresa Hawley.

The Middle East countries – officially designatedas a Salvation Army region from 1 April – containvibrant and devoted soldiers whose excited facesrevealed the joy they felt at being able to worshiptogether. A worship service led by delegates fromKuwait, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi brought muchdelight, as did contributions from Texas Brass Band.

The region’s young people were seen to be asource of particular strength. A service for youngpeople, led by members of Texas Brass Band,demonstrated their passion for their church.

The event served not only as a celebration of theArmy’s past but also as a consecration of its future.Major Mike Hawley made clear the purpose of The

Salvation Army in the Middle East – to be light andsalt for a uniquely available group of internationalpeople.

At the end of the gathering the visiting band travelled to Kuwait for further performance andworship opportunities. Guided by Assistant RegionalOfficers Majors Stewart and Heather Grinsted, inpartnership with The Lighthouse Church, the bandparticipated in multiple services and conducted awell-attended concert.

This was the first known visit of a SalvationArmy band to these countries and was a greatencouragement to friends and soldiers of The Salva-tion Army living and working in the Middle East.There is every indication that there are real andextensive opportunities for growth in this new andexciting region of The Salvation Army. – R. G.

Clapton’s Friday Knitter Knatter group meets to knitblankets and cardigans for babies in special care – thegroup attracts people from the corps and communityand has been a great source of new friendships

People seekSpirit’s fireHorshamMANY new faces were amongthe congregation that packed thehall on Mother’s Day whenAssociate Divisional YouthOfficer Lieutenant NicolaBrooksbank led worship andcorps officer Captain IanWoodgate spoke on Influence.Many people made prayers andcommitments to God during atime of reflection and response.

Songwriter/worship leaderDavid Fellingham led an eveningof worship and shared how histime in the Army, and as nationalyouth evangelist, encouraged himto explore the lives of people suchas William Booth and made himrealise he lacked the fire many‘great saints’ had. At the end ofthe meeting many people re -ceived prayer to be filled with theHoly Spirit. – I. W.

Skewen: Divisional leadersMajors Peter and Sandra Moranled the morning meeting onMother’s Day. Major SandraMoran preached on the subjectof Family Having Words. – S. L.


NEWS


Band is ideal choiceSouthend CitadelFROM the opening item, ‘Fanfare And Flourishes’,it was clear that Regent Hall Band was an ideal choice for the 125th corps anniversary brass festival. A pre-meeting feature was a trombone chorale played at the open front door of the hall. The programme included ‘Turris

Fortissima’ and ‘The Dark Side Of The Moon’ and Paul Hooper (trombone) and Paul Sharman (trumpet and flugelhorn) were the soloists.The host corps songsters supported the band,singing ‘Rock Eternal’ and ‘Hymn To TheConqueror’.

There were powerful personal testimonies andMajor Richard Gaudion (IHQ) gave a significantmessage. – K. M.

Chorus gives excitingfestivalGuisboroughTHE Northern Divisional Youth Chorus gave anexciting festival at the corps, raising £224 for theArmy’s Japan Disaster Fund. The programmeincluded ‘Praise His Holy Name’, ‘Lights On A

Hill’, ‘We Are Free’ and ‘The Climb’. PhilipThompson performed Joy Webb’s ‘There Will BeGod’ as a euphonium solo. Laura Davidson testi-fied and Chorus Sergeant Cheryl Morris gave aBible reading and a pause for thought.

The host corps young people’s band supportedthe chorus, playing ‘Concert Overture’ and‘Alleluia, God Is So Good’. – M. P.

Mother’s Dayhighlights activitiesExeterCORPS officers Colonels Anneand Graeme Harding intendedthe Mother’s Day meeting tohighlight the Christian teachingand activities provided by theyoung people’s team. Inresponse, two families expressedinterest and promised to developtheir links with the corps.

The larger-than-usual congre-

gation enjoyed the varied items,which included the Lord’s Prayerin sign language. AmeliaWoolway and Izzy Hancock(right) are pictured playing acornet duet, with Amelia’smother Ruth – who coachedthem – in support. The YouthRhythm Group performed ‘He IsExalted’, Kingdom Kids sang‘I’m Running’ and the teenagerspresented a mime dance entitled‘Mother Mary’s Prayer’. Therewas also a multimedia presenta-tion on behalf of CompassionUK. – L. B.

Shop-schoollinks developKilmarnockTHE community in the Bellfieldarea of the town benefits fromthe proceeds of sales from thecorps charity shop. When aprimary school teacher asked ifthe children in her class coulddisplay their drawings of Vikingshields in the window, the shopstaff were delighted to oblige.

As well as encouraging links inthe community, volunteer mana -ger Joyce Ferguson had opportu-nity to witness to the childrenabout her love of the Lord, whatThe Salvation Army is and doesand how the shop is helping withthe Army’s work. – E. F.

Choir joins bandin concertSkewenA CAPACITY audience enjoyedan evening of first-class musicwhen Swansea Bay Choir joinedwith the band to give a concert.The choir, with members agedfrom eight to retirement age, sangsongs from Oliver!, My Fair Lady,Les Misérables and South Pacific.The band played ‘Land Of Song’,‘Nothing More’ and ‘All In TheApril Evening’ and euphoniumsoloist Ken Freeman contributed‘I Heard Of A Saviour’. Toconclude the concert, the band,choir and audience united for theNational Anthem. – S. L.

Hats for the rallyGuisboroughON Adult and Family Sunday,which was also Mother’s Day,guest leader Lieut-Colonel JoanDunwoodie spoke from God’sword with challenge and bless-ing. There were two seekers.

In keeping with the theme – IfThe Cap Fits – a large congrega-tion gathered for the Tuesdayrally wearing various hats. Theprogramme included timbrelists,the Gentlemen of the GoldenYears (over-60) Club whoperformed ‘The Gardening Song’and Home League SecretaryBeatrice Lythgoe who presenteda poem that she composed.

Guest speaker Kate Cousinsbrought humour and challenge asshe wore various hats to illustrateGod’s love for everyone. – S. S./S. P.


NEWS

[email protected]

LETTERS

CORPS PRESS REPRESENTATIVES are reminded to send reports [email protected]– to arrive no later than ten daysafter the event. Reports can alsobe sent by post to Salvationist,The Salvation Army, 101 NewingtonCauseway, London SE1 6BN

Covenant Players bring challenging teachingNorwich CitadelTHE Covenant Players (left) featured at the corps FirstSunday meet ing after running a drama workshop at St Stephen’s Church and visiting Dussindale Outreach Unitearlier that day. The group’s presentations con tained thought-pro voking and challenging aspects of Christian teaching.

The corps music sections supported and corps officer MajorSally McBride prayed and read from Psalm 100. – B. C.

Visiting Grantham Corps, as part of its 130th anniversary celebrations, Territorial Commander CommissionerJohn Matear is pictured with corps leaders Territorial Envoys Bernard and Barbara Snook (left), the Mayor andMayoress of Grantham (Councillor Robert Hearmon and Delia Hearmon) and divisional leaders Lieut-ColonelsMike and Wendy Caffull; Sleaford Corps, celebrating its 125th year, joined in the celebrations

Blue ShieldFellowship meetKnottingleyMEMBERS of the Blue ShieldFellowship, which supports Sal -vationist police personnel, trav-elled to the corps for their annualweekend. On Saturday brassplayers from the fellowshipjoined with the corps band for anopen-air witness. In the eveningseveral former Salvationists wereamong those who attended afestival at Ropewalk MethodistChurch.

Territorial Envoys Andy andGay Tonks (Coedpoeth) led theSunday morning meeting usingthe theme Stop! Go! And Share!After lunch the fellowship heldits annual general meeting.Majors John and Sylvia Randle(Ringwood) led the afternoonmeeting. – M. T.

� Letter waslike sewing andreaping!SINCE my letter appeared in

Salvationist (‘Are you flying to

Lusaka?’ 19 February) I have received

quite a number of calls and a lot of help

for the Zambia project.

A further six cases containing manualsewing machines are being sent outtomorrow evening (as I write) and ChrisBrehm, one of British Airways’ first officers,will be taking another three. This brings usto a total of 80 cases sent in little over ayear with another 14 scheduled to go alongwith Lieut-Colonel Geoff Blurton and myselfwhen we fly to Zambia on 1 June, courtesyof and at the invitation of British Airways.

Among the ‘other goods’ that we will betaking with us will be a full team ‘home’ and‘away’ football strip from Queens ParkRangers for the football club that theterritory has set up in order to get closer tosome of the young people of that country.

Just 6 more cases will take us to 100

cases and more than 2,300 kilograms ofgoods sent out to The Salvation Army inZambia free of charge courtesy of BritishAirways!Melvyn Ackroyd,Major,Iver

� Only grace

will make megood enoughTHERE have been a number of letters

in Salvationist recently about uniform

and I feel moved to respond to Major

William Laird’s (‘Only the best is good

enough!’ 16 April).

I am a uniform-wearing Salvationist – for23 years, if you count being a junior soldieras well. I wear my uniform because Ibelieve it has a place in my discipleship andmy Salvationism.

That said, and my position clear, Idisagree with some of the statements inthe major’s letter. Many music sectionsthese days include people who don’t wear

uniform. I know this is a sensitive subjectfor some, but I do not believe it is simply away of increasing numbers to look good,nor do I believe it means a lowering ofstandards.

To say ‘these people’ are rounded up forspecial occasions is a little harsh. What ifsome of them come to hear the gospelthrough the music or through devotionaltimes in rehearsals and find faith by beingloved and included? Requiring a statementof belief before joining a group might putsome people off altogether or, worse, leadto the possibility of them faking it.

With regard to the notion that ‘only thebest is good enough’, I agree that I shouldtry with all my might to be the bestChristian I can be but, inevitably, I fail, I getit wrong, I am not perfect and I’m certainlynot ‘the best’ – but isn’t that the point ofgrace?

To quote John Gowans: ‘In a world ofshifting values, there are standards thatremain, I believe that holy living by God’sgrace we may attain’ (see SASB 324 andEphesians 2:6–10). The standard I wish tostrive for is holiness, which I believe can beachieved only through God’s grace.Andrew Whitehouse,Nottingham

10 7 May 2011 SALVATIONIST www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

BIBLE STUDY

COMPARISONS can be

enlightening. In the old dayscadets did ‘work sections’and polished the floors with

red Cardinal polish – back, some wouldsay, ‘when training was training!’

For some people, comparisons canalso be disheartening.

As the William Booth College projectnears completion, en suite facilities areavailable to all cadets and visitors in astudy and training environment that canonly inspire leadership development.

Comparisons have always been with us(see Haggai 2:9).

Five hundred years before Christ came,Haggai was called to leadership – to bring hope and encouragement to adisgruntled, discouraged community. TheJews were struggling after their returnfrom exile. They were experiencing toughtimes, an economic meltdown and had tolearn to live under the pressure of hostileforces. As they compared the formerTemple with the new one, they wereappalled at how small the new one wasgoing to be.

Tough times pass. Tough people don’t.As God comes, God knows and Godspeaks to his people.

When is ‘then’? (See 1:3, 12 and 13.)Is this the right time to build (or

refurbish)?The American Superbowl was played

in a $1.1 billion stadium in Dallas. Itseems to me that if a stadium costingthat much is built for men to run aroundin Lycra trousers and motorbike helmets,then every possible resource should beinvested in ensuring that the right kind ofspiritual leaders are trained to helpchange the world.

‘Then’ seems to be God’s timing. Lookat the text (1:13; 2:2–12). God himself isspeaking, through Haggai.

Whose work is it? ‘I will once moreshake the heavens and the earth… I will shake all nations… I will grantpeace’ (vv6–9 all quotations from NewInternational Version ).

‘Then’ is all about God. God is thesource and the resource. It’s not aboutme. This is a God thing.

What else will you do with your life that

can make such a difference and last forever? What we build, God will fill with hisglory (2:7), for his glory. The word ‘glory’signals the highest honour. The Hebrewword comes from the root word meaning‘heavy, weighty or important’. God’s glory celebrates his significance, hisuniqueness and his one-of-a-kind-ness.Every act of Heaven reveals God’s glory.Every act of Jesus does the same. All weneed is what God promised Haggai – aglimpse of his glory.

If God initiates the ‘then’, we have aresponsibility to respond. God’s ‘then’brought about obedience (1:12).

For too long the Israelites had lived theirown lives, ignoring the word of God.Haggai spoke, and this leadershipmoment changed his generation. Do wetrust God to do what he said he would do?

God’s ‘then’ also inspired the people toaction. The promise of verse 13 – thatGod was with them – led them to obey. Apeople obedient, yet fearful, are reassuredthat he accepts them and will be with them.

One month after the work began, Godspeaks words of encouragement to thosewho have responded positively and aredoing his work. It is easy to becomediscouraged, but three times Haggai says:‘Be strong’ (2:4).

God’s ‘then’ also led to consequences(2:13). God does not compete for ourundivided attention. Disobedience comeswith a high price. Haggai seems to besuggesting that just restoring the Templebuilding was not enough. Its presence didnot guarantee God’s blessings. Our innerworld is vital because we can’t solveeverything by hard work or brainpower.

This raises the question, what shouldwe do until ‘then’ arrives? What do we doin the meantime, when we are not wherewe were, but not where we should be?The meantime matters to God. We needto believe that something is happening,even when nothing appears to behappening.

So, ‘then’, listen out for God’s word.Keep praying, worshipping, serving. Keepbeing obedient to God – and if all else fails,keep going! Commit to do today what youcan do, so that tomorrow you will be ableto do what you can’t do today.

God’s ‘then’ will come. It may not be inrelation to a building project, butundoubtedly God’s ‘then’ for you will helpto change the next generation. �

� Major Herbert is Territorial

Candidates Director

When is‘then’?Major Mark Herbert presents the second in histhree-part series entitled A Study Of Haggai

STUDY PASSAGE HAGGAI 1:12 TO 2:14

All we need is what God promisedHaggai – a glimpse of his glory

FEATURE

SALVATIONIST 7 May 2011 [email protected]

ATTENDING an ALOVE conference,

Sarah heard how Salvation ArmyInternational Development (UK) was backing the Live Below

The Line campaign, which encouragespeople to live for five days on less than£1 per day for food and drink – which ishow around a quarter of the world’spopulation have to manage. ‘The slot on the campaign was interactive andexciting and caught my eye,’ Sarahrecalls.

Five days is tough enough, so whychoose the whole of Lent? ‘I wanted to do something challenging for Lentthis year, engaging in self-sacrifice andwhat it means to deny yourself andfollow God,’ Sarah explains. ‘I couldn’tstop thinking about the Live Below The

Line campaign, sofigured I’d connectthe two! I was excitedabout the prospect ofdoing the challengeand didn’t want towait until May [when it launched]; I wantedto do somethingnow!’

Wanting to staytrue to the ethos oflife below the line,Sarah also realisedher health had to beconsidered in undertaking the challengeover a longer period of time. As such,she allowed for herself ‘a Sabbath’ and some rules. ‘I lived on 99p or

less for everything from Monday toSaturday – food, toiletries, travel – but if I had to do something, such as for work, and needed to use the car,then I would do. I also allowed myself to eat leftovers or food I found, plus any food I already had in. With toiletries, if I’d got it, I could use it; if I hadn’t, I had to budget for it within myallowance.

‘On Sundays I still didn’t use the carand was very careful to live a sacrificiallife, but more sensibly.’

As an enthusiastic sportswoman, whoeats quite healthily, Sarah found the newdiet was problematic. ‘Eating healthily

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

I wanted to do somethingchallenging for Lent this

year, engaging inself-sacrifice and what itmeans to deny yourself

and follow God

SarahTomkinsonshares withClaire Andersonher Lentenexperience ofliving below thepoverty line

can’t easily be done on 99p,’ she says.‘My first week was quite good. There isonly one supermarket in Wetherby and ithad lots of fruit and vegetables on offer for 30p. After the offer ended, my dietpretty much consisted of carbohydratesand sugar.’

Attempting to make the best of hersituation, Sarah would look for cheapend-of-date food.‘Every day I went tothe supermarket,’she admits. ‘Oncethere weresausages for 49pso I bought them.The challengehasn’t been as badas I initially thoughtit would be, but ithas been prettyawful.’

Sarah adds thatorganisationpossibly let herdown, leaving herstuck on day-to-day budgeting rather than planning aheadfor her week.

I asked how her diet impacted herlifestyle. ‘I’m really tired,’ she admitted.‘I’m shattered all the time. What is reallyinteresting, though, is I’m also quitegrumpy. Within two weeks of beginningthe challenge, someone said to me, “Youare so grumpy, will you just eat normally!”

From that point I tried really hard not tobe, though I found it interesting they’dpicked up on my attitude really changing.’

She adds: ‘Also, I’ve had some strangecravings, such as chewing gum. But itwasn’t a necessity so I wouldn’t buy it – it would cost half my daily budget!

‘Ordinarily I try to eat plenty of fruit andvegetables. I’ve really craved a cold,crunchy apple. I normally eat a lot of fish,too, but it’s well expensive so I’ve not

eaten much of that.Meat hasn’t been inmy diet at all unlessit’s been heavilyreduced. So, it hasbeen a bag of pastafor 20p, a lot ofbread – this isalways on offer andis quite cheap –potatoes are quitecheap, but it’s allcarbs. In the pastweek [towards theend of her challenge]I’ve been gettingreally, really tired sohave tried to put a

little sugar in my diet. A little bag of sweetsfell within my budget and kept me goingwhile I was at work and doing mydissertation.’

Sarah’s work at a social inclusionproject and socialising created additionalobstacles. She shares: ‘I went to ameeting with people I didn’t know verywell and we were going bowling and

having food out. I had to be at themeeting – so allowed myself to spend onpetrol – but I didn’t have to engage inbowling or lunch which would cost over a week’s budget. This was the first point I realised how unjust the situation was – a game of bowling is more than two orthree days’ budget for some people.

‘I didn’t know the group very well and had to explain what I was doing andwhy. The reaction straight away was“Have my game” or “I’ll pay”. But, to me, it defeated the object because I am tryingto identify with someone who is livingbelow the line. If they couldn’t afford this,then I couldn’t either.’

In her time off, Sarah has had todiscipline her thinking. ‘I’ve noticed how

much I usually eat outsidemealtimes,’ she admits. ‘I don’t think I’ve had anevening just in at homebecause if I’m hangingaround I get quite hungry.I’m much more active – I take walks and go oncycle rides to avoidwanting to eat.’

In video blogs of herprogress Sarah admits the challenge has helpedher reassess her life.Although, as a student,she felt her lifestyle wasn’textravagant, she says: ‘I’ve caught a glimpse ofthe lifestyle some peoplehave – some who are evenon my doorstep. God has

FEATURE

⟨⟨⟨⟨ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

I’ve caught aglimpse of thelifestyle somepeople have –some who areeven on mydoorstep

SALVATIONIST 7 May 2011 [email protected]

shown me so much about my lifestyleand how unjust it is. He stands againstpoverty, injustice and brokenness; as aChristian I need to stand up and dosomething about it, too. I’ve had aglimpse of poverty – I’ve not reallyexperienced it – and know this iswrong. I can’t not do anything about itnow; I need to live a different life.’

At Wetherby’s Friday night youthclub, the team serves toast-and-toppings for 35p. This simple act hastaken on new significance for Sarah.This small act of a cheap meal couldmake a real difference to people.‘Because of the challenge, I’m moreforceful in backing such projects andam up for carrying them out,’ she says.

I ask Sarah about any particular lowpoints in her challenge, and she warns:‘This sounds a lot worse than it is.’ Shebegins: ‘I was at work and was quitehungry. I went to put something in thebin and as I lifted the lid saw a Galaxycake bar in it. I was really hungry,needed sugar and had had nochocolate since I started the challenge.The cake was still inside the wrapper – I checked it all: it hadn’t been undone.One of the school kids had likely had itin their bag, it had gone to crumbs, sothey’d thrown it – but for me, that waslike finding gold! It was a real moment

of: Oh, my goodness. I’meating out of the bin and it’sonly day four!’

Against the cloudsthough, Sarah has foundplenty of silver linings. In visiting London for ameeting, she planned to‘beg’ by the Thames. ‘I satby the London Eye – brilliantview – next to an ice-creamvan for an hour and a half. I was so surprised howmuch people gave to me. I also had a greatconversation with oneparticular man.’ The manasked lots of questions andSarah managed to share a bit about her work. ‘Heasked if the challenge was a faith thing. What anopportunity! I explained thatI’m a Christian youth workerand one of the reasons Iwas doing this was toidentify with the lifestyles ofothers, as I believe Godchallenges us to live a lifethat’s not extravagant.’ Theconversation lasted some 15 minutesand he offered to help too, giving Saraha donation. ‘I believe he went away

changed,’ she says.The impact on Sarah

has been huge. Churchfriends have taken aninterest but others havebeen intrigued too. ‘I’veput a few messages onFacebook and I had anemail from a friend, who I haven’t really spoken toin four years. She toldme a colleague at workwas interested in what I was doing and could I send some information.It’s amazing! SomeoneI’ve never met has beenimpacted!’

Conversations at the school where sheworks have also been‘important and enriching’as the young people

have engaged Sarah, trying tounderstand why she’d choose such atough lifestyle.

So, what lessons has Sarah learnt?‘I’ve learnt how much of a snob I am!’she admits, when talking about buyingcheaper household and toiletryproducts. ‘But this is reality for somepeople; they have to use theseproducts, even if, in terms of what I’mused to, they’re awful. People shouldn’thave to use them – it seems completelyunfair.’

But would she encourage others to live below the line? ‘Why would you not!’ she enthuses. ‘Throughoutthis experience I’ve learnt so much and understood a little bit more aboutwhere my young people are comingfrom – some of my kids come inwithout clean hair: now I understandhow much shampoo costs and if youuse cheap shampoo how it doesn’twash as well. I’m passionate about mycommunity. Why would you not want tounderstand yours or get a glimpse ofthe kind of life others lead!’ ■

■ Sarah is an Essential2 trainee youth worker at Wetherby

For more information on Live Below The Line visit

www.livebelowtheline.org.uk/saiduk

Sarah ‘begs’ by the Thames

INTERVIEW

WHAT HAS THE ROLE OF

MODERATOR INVOLVED?

It’s an elected role that represents the 23denominations of the Free ChurchesGroup in England and Wales. There wasno job description – I had to interpret therole in a way that worked for me and alsofitted in with my ‘day job’. In essence itwas about being a face and a voice for theFree Churches, whether at national eventsor in dialogue with religious leaders of theestablished churches such as the Churchof England and the Roman CatholicChurch. So it’s a high-profile role.

where possible, to support them at events;at the very least I would send words ofencouragement. One of the groups I waspatron to was the scouts, so I went alongto their jamboree and they appreciatedthat their patron was prepared to go in as I was – not so much in ‘wellies’, but nearenough.

With regard to human trafficking I believethe other churches have been glad to seeThe Salvation Army taking the lead on this.The Army has secured the tender to be‘gatekeeper’ for the anti-human traffickingoperations in the country; this is a realmove forward and we will be working inpartnership with other agencies.

WHAT EXAMPLES CAN YOU GIVE OF

GOD AT WORK IN THE FREE

CHURCHES?

Chaplaincy is a growing field in whichsociety can interface with faith, and thechurches are especially active in hospitalsand prisons. And in education, innon-church schools, there is a consistentand tenacious work to ensure that religiouseducation remains part of the schoolcurriculum.

Within Churches Together there arewonderful examples of churches working

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE

EXPERIENCE?

It’s been a very busy four years because I still retained my Salvation Armyappointment. I would also use words suchas privilege and enriching. The moderator isalso a co-president of Churches Together,so with those two roles as well as myleadership responsibilities alongside myhusband, there’s been a synergy in all ofthat. It’s not been a conflict becausewherever we’ve gone around the nation I’vemade it known that I represent thechurches as well as The Salvation Army.We had opportunities to meet with mayorsand parliamentarians, so it’s been aboutseizing every opportunity – national andlocal, formal and informal – to present thework and ministry of the many churches.

BEFORE YOUR INDUCTION YOU

SPOKE ABOUT EMPHASISING THE

THINGS THAT UNITE RATHER THAN

THOSE THAT DIVIDE, AND

ENCOURAGING ACTION AGAINST

HUMAN TRAFFICKING. HOW MUCH

OF THIS HAS BEEN ACHIEVED?

My experience has been that there isgraciousness within all the groups I havebeen involved with. Churches are workingwell together at a local level; we cancontribute to one another as we shareinsights, skills and resources.

Relationships are key. Part of my role hasbeen to act as patron to some 100-plusother organisations and charities and,

The Army isstrong ontestimony,proclamationand socialinvolvement, and... this is an effectivebridge intopeople’s lives

A face and a voiceMajor Leanne Ruthven speaks withCommissioner Betty Matear abouther four years as Moderator of theFree Churches, a position sherelinquished last month


in their communities, contributing skills andresources. For example, in the Forest ofDean the Army has been working with theUnited Reformed Church and the Anglicans– at first using their buildings but now we’vebought a pub there. It’s called the Bird InHand, but no doubt will need to berenamed. The Army will run communityprogrammes from the pub while still usingthe church buildings for worship. When wework together like this we are recoveringthe heart of God’s commission to go to allthe world and make disciples.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO

SALVATIONISTS ABOUT ECUMENICAL

OPPORTUNITIES AT A LOCAL LEVEL?

We have a significant contribution to make.The Army is strong on testimony,proclamation and social involvement, and in2011 this is an effective bridge into people’slives. To the individual Salvationist I wouldsay, you have skills that can influence

people; it’s not just about going along withthe body that is The Salvation Army, it’sabout being the Army wherever you are.

WHAT HAS IT DONE FOR THE ARMY

TO HAVE A SALVATIONIST IN THE

ROLE OF MODERATOR?

It has given us high visibility. Often theactivities I became involved in weretelevised or photographed. As the face ofthe Free Churches, I’ve been at the front ofprocessions and I believe people take a

second look when they seeThe Salvation Army in thatposition. And withoutlabouring the femaleaspect, lots of people havesaid they were glad to seea woman in a leadershiprole. On one occasion inWestminster Cathedralsome of the nuns wereeven cheering me!

The role has taken me tomajor events and locationsaround the nation, from thePalace of Westminster,Buckingham Palace andLambeth Palace, to localchurches and chapels. I preached in WestminsterAbbey, which waswonderful. I’ve also chosento contribute to radio andtelevision, written for magazines and

provided comment onsignificant events for the nation.

WHAT ARE SOME OF

THE HIGHLIGHTS OF

YOUR TERM?

During the papal visit in September last year I participated in the events inWestminster Abbey and waspresented to the Pope – thatwas quite special.

I also attended the Queen’s DiamondWedding Anniversary service in 2007 andthe Lambeth Conference in 2008 and tookpart in the Council of European Churches inRomania (2007) and France (2009).

I attended the recent royal wedding,representing The Salvation Army. It wassuch a privilege. Other highlights of the fouryears were being able to share, inunassuming ways, with all kinds of peopleabout the Christian faith.

WHAT ABOUT

YOUR ROLE IN

INTERFAITH

DIALOGUE?

On more than oneoccasion we met atLambeth Palace withrepresentatives ofJudaism, Islam,Buddhism, Sikhismand numerous otherfaiths. We once metwith a group ofschoolchildren whohad visited

Auschwitz; with the chief rabbi wediscussed issues such as how to makesure things like that never happen again.

We’ve met to discuss the tensionsbetween fundamentalist elements of faithand to share in a moderate, measured waythe need to talk about these things. It’swhen you listen to others and share withthem in relationship that you come to abetter understanding. A lot of the interfaithgatherings were breakfast meetings wherewe shared a meal and talked together – itwas all very natural. One of these meetingswas held in the city, attended by highfinanciers, when we shared how we couldimpact the nation and discussed the idea ofthe Big Society.

IS THERE A ‘HOLE’ IN YOUR LIFE NOW

THAT YOU’VE RELINQUISHED THIS

POSITION? WHAT WILL YOU MISS

THE MOST?

There’s a hole in my heart because I’veenjoyed the privilege of the role.

However, it’s been an addition to myappointment, so I’ve always had to makedecisions about what’s been the mostimportant activity to go to. Sometimes I’vehad to get someone else to fill themoderator role and sometimes theTerritorial Commander has had to attendevents on his own; we’ve just had to juggle.

I will miss the opportunity to mix withother church leaders and to be ‘out there’with a particular voice and presence. But ina sense it won’t stop, because this is whatwe do. We need to be confident regardingthe contribution Christians are making tosociety, and I am thankful for theopportunity to have been part of that overthese past four years. ■

[email protected]

The Rev Michael Heaney, General Secretary of the Congregational Federation, was inducted as Moderator of the Free Churches on 13April; Commissioner Matear is wearing the Past Moderator’s medal

It’s when you listen toothers and share withthem in relationshipthat you come to abetter understanding

Commissioner Matear with the other co-presidents of Churches Together: Bishop Jana Jeruma-Grinberga and Archbishops RowanWilliams and Vincent Nichols


NEW COMMITMENTS


Natalie ReeveSoldier

Chelsea PearceCarys PetersonJunior soldiersClacton

JUNIOR soldier Natalie attended soldiership classes and decided shewas ready to make the commitment of becoming a senior soldier.Chelsea and Carys have made their first commitments to the Lord andthe Army as junior soldiers.

Corps officer Captain Graham Slader enrolled them during theyoung people’s annual. – V. R.

Margaret HomansPam PriorAdherent membersChatteris

MARGARET and Pam were attracted to the corps through the weeklylunch club and home league. The hall was full of family and friendswhen corps officer Captain Christine Campbell welcomed them asadherent members during a café-church meeting. Margaret testifiedthat, because of the warm welcome she received and the friendshipsshe now shares, she feels that this is where she belongs. – C. C.

Joyce BloorEvelyn WharmbyAdherent membersIlkeston

THE daughter of Salvation Army Assurance Society officers, Joycewas brought up in the Army. She recently returned to the corps aftera short time away. Evelyn began going to the corps after discoveringher mother’s Army songbook. She felt a spiritual hunger and sensedGod was leading her to the Army. Exactly a year after her first visit tothe corps she became an adherent member.

Corps officers Majors Linda and Paul Hoad publicly welcomedJoyce and Evelyn. – B. A.

Ryan CurrieJunior soldierClydebank

RYAN, who comes from a Salvationist family, thanked all those whohad helped him and guided him to come to know Jesus and to makethe decision to serve and follow him.

Lieutenants Jo and Stephen Moir (Cumbernauld), who wereconducting the young people’s annual, enrolled Ryan as a juniorsoldier. – C. M.

Ruth KingSoldierCheltenham

CORPS folk were happy to share in the occasion when Ruthreaffirmed her commitment to God as a soldier. Corps officer MajorDiane Henderson enrolled her. – R. G.

Kit SteadAdherent memberAbertillery

KIT has attended the over-60 club regularly for many years and, in recent months, decided that she wanted to make a commitment to God and the Army. Corps officer Captain David Womersleywelcomed her as an adherent member in an over-60 club meeting. – A. B.

John HodkinsonVal HodkinsonSoldiersStockport Citadel

JOHN and Val started going to the corps four years ago and becameadherent members two years ago. Over the past six months they haveexperienced the Holy Spirit prompting them to become soldiers. Theirpassionate testimonies of renewal and commitment made a lastingimpression on the congregation, which included a number of familymembers and friends who were there to support them.

Corps officer Lieutenant Jeremy Ferguson-Smith enrolled John andVal as soldiers. – J. F-S.

Annie CroxfordPhil CroxfordAdherent membersBicester

PHIL testified to being guided by God to go to the corps and saidthat, in one prayer meeting, he heard God say: ‘Welcome home,son.’ Annie spoke of God’s power in her life and both celebrate thefact that they now have opportunities to serve in the Army in thefuture.

Corps officers Captains John and Kathryn McLean welcomedAnnie and Phil as adherent members. – J. M.

Kerry SprostonAdherent memberRipley

HAVING been away from the corps for some years, Kerry returned afew months ago and decided to make a commitment to God and theArmy. Corps leader Divisional Envoy Kevin Wibberley welcomedKerry as an adherent member. – S. B.

Angela JonesPeter JonesSoldiers

Alice MacDonaldBill MacDonald

Rona StewartAnne Stewart

John BainRachel Alton

Bethany LoganAdherent membersAberdeen Citadel

ANGELA and Peter have attended the corps for some time anddecided to make a full commitment to God and the Army. Peter spokeabout his spiritual journey and how he and Angela wanted to serve theLord and worship as members of the Army. Corps officer CaptainDavid Alton enrolled them as soldiers.

Alice and Bill started going to the Army after having a conversationwith a soldier of the corps on a bus. They felt a warm welcome andmade the decision to become adherent members. Bill is activelyinvolved in the homeless outreach programme and in the jointchurches Night Shelter endeavour, which is located at the citadel.Alice is a valued member of the fellowship group and both attend cellgroup Bible studies.

Rona and Anne are mother and daughter who have begunattending since the corps extended its programme afterrefurbishment. Rona volunteers in the café and is a loyal member of the fellowship group.

John has been a regular at meetings since attending the funeral ofa family member at the citadel. He travels a considerable distance toworship and speaks of the warm welcome extended to him.

Rachel and Bethany have each been to various corps sincechildhood and chose to confirm their commitment to the Lord bybecoming adherent members at the Citadel.

Captain Jane Alton welcomed Alice, Bill, Rona, Anne, John andRachel as adherent members and Captain David Alton welcomedBethany. – M. R.


NEW COMMITMENTS

[email protected]

Bethany DicksonMadison Loughrey

Erin BoydLiah Upritchard

Eden HaycockLeah Maghie

George GawNicole Hunter

Sophie LeemanDaniel Sharpe

Oliver CordnerSam Gaw

Cameron VanceJunior soldiersBelfast Sydenham

CORPS officer Captain Martin Cordner enrolled Bethany, Madison,Erin, Liah, Eden, Leah, George, Nicole, Sophie, Daniel, Oliver,Sam and Cameron as junior soldiers.

Some of the older junior soldiers prayed and testified and offered encouragement to the newcomers. God’s presence was felt as the young people signed their promise cards at the mercy seat.

Cameron, who was enrolled the following Sunday, was invitedto the Army by a friend and testified to the welcome he received,which encouraged him to accept Jesus into his life. – L. C.

PLEASE note when submitting pictures: they can be posted to the Salvationist office as photographs to be scanned, or emailed [email protected] as digital images with a resolution of at least 200 dpi. Please send images as jpg or tiff attachments andavoid including embedded images in Word documents or within email messages. Please do not send paper printouts of digital pictures.


ANNOUNCEMENTSmother Connie Holt; Bandmaster Gordon Hiscox,

Carlisle Citadel, of his mother Ellen.

RETIRED OFFICERS

Birthday congratulations: Colonel Arnold Bennett,

, Lymington

(80 on 12 May); Brigadier Mary

Aspden, , Swinton, Manchester

(100 on 15 May).

PROMOTED TO GLORY

Margaret Brew, Douglas.


ARMY PEOPLELOCAL OFFICERS APPOINTED

RS Minn Moore, Belfast Citadel; BM Stuart

Leathem, Bangor.

MARRIAGES

Derek Boxell to RS/Songster Margaret

Chadwick at Staple Hill by Major Janet Thompson;

Bandsman/Songster Richard Brown (Chalk

Farm) to Lynne Caddy (Deptford) at Bath Citadel by

Commissioner William Cochrane.

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES

Golden: Colonel and Mrs Bramwell and Ruth

Booth (20 May); Majors Alan and Gwenda

Crossland (20 May); Colonels Derek and Mary

Elvin (20 May); Majors John and Julia Partridge

(20 May); Lieut-Colonels David and Doriel

Phillips (20 May); Majors John and Ivy Roberts

(20 May); Majors Raymond and Esme King

(22 May).

DEDICATED TO GOD

Jacob John, son of Claire Jerome, at Leigh-on-Sea

by Major Teresa Carmichael; Seth Daniel, son of

Richard and Sarah Hughes, at Sale by Major

Maurice Young; Addison Jayne, daughter of

Andrew Fisher and Caroline Pearce, at Wisbech by

Major Violet Smart; Ramona Lily, daughter of Tim

and Lucy AitkenRead, at Winton by Major John

Read; Bill Wood, son of Nick and Fleur Bryant, at

Bristol Easton by Lieut-Colonel Stephen Pallant.

BEREAVED

Territorial Envoy Sandra Stanford, Tewkesbury

and Evesham, of her mother Doris Bryant;

Bandsman Deryck Poole, Chesterton, of his wife

Eva, Territorial Envoy Christine Chadwick,

Newcastle-under-Lyme, of her mother; Gladys

Collins, Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls,

of her son Geoffrey, Major Sue Collins of her

brother; Major Doreen King of her sister Emma

Sherwin; Bandsman Bob Jarvis, Bristol Easton, of

his brother Gordon; Ann Rowland, Staines, of her

ENGAGEMENTSGENERAL LINDA BOND:

ICO, Sun 8 May, Tu 17; Sunbury Court (General’s

Consultative Council), Mon 23 - Th 26

THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF

(COMMISSIONER BARRY SWANSON)

AND COMMISSIONER SUE SWANSON:

Eastern Europe, Fri 27 May - Mon 30; ICO, Th 2

Jun; UK, Royal Albert Hall (ISB120 concert), Sat

4; UK, Westminster Central Hall and the Mall

(Music Leaders Councils and ISB120 march of

witness), Sun 5

THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

(COMMISSIONER JOHN MATEAR)

AND COMMISSIONER ELIZABETH MATEAR:

William Booth College (spiritual day), Wed 11

May; William Booth College, Fri 13**; Sunbury

Court (Territorial Leaders Conference), Tu 17 - Fri

20; William Booth Birthplace Museum,

Nottingham (reopening), Nottingham William

Booth Memorial Halls (reopening), Sat 21;

Sunbury Court (General’s Consultative Council),

Mon 23 - Th 26; Cadogan Hall (ISB and New

York Staff Band concert), Fri 3 Jun; Royal Albert

Hall (ISB120 concert), Sat 4; Westminster Central

Hall and the Mall (Music Leaders Councils and

ISB120 march of witness), Sun 5

THE CHIEF SECRETARY

(COLONEL BRIAN PEDDLE) AND

COLONEL ROSALIE PEDDLE:

Waterbeach, Sat Sun 8 May; London Central

(divisional retreat), Tu 24 - Th 26

Commissioner William Cochrane: Kilbirnie,

Sat Sun 15 May

Commissioner Robert Street: ICO, Th 12

May

**husband will not accompany

TRIBUTESAUXILIARY-CAPTAINERIC BUCHANANDURING RAF service inthe Korean War, EricBuchanan worked at thefront line as a medical orderly. Although not reli-

gious, he was impressed by the practicalChristianity of an Australian SalvationArmy officer and decided that if ever he became a Christian, that was the church he would join.

After leaving the RAF he emigrated, withhis wife Annie, to Pennsylvania, USA,where Eric’s ‘gift of the gab’ made him asuccessful door-to-door salesman. Annie, atrained tailor, made coats. Eric never forgotthe Salvation Army officer he had met inKorea and he and Annie started worshippingat the nearby corps.

After returning to the UK the coupleadopted a son, Andrew. They also linked upwith East Kilbride Corps, from where theyresponded to God’s call to full-time serviceas envoys in 1978. Their appointments included Drumchapel, Musselburgh andEasterhouse.

At Musselburgh Eric was presented witha Davy lamp in recognition of his relief workwith miners’ families at Dalkeith during the

miners’ strike. At Easterhouse he was widelyknown for his work with poor and disadvan-taged people, particularly those with drug addiction. Often unorthodox in his methods,his sole aim was to minister in practical waysto those in desperate need.

Many who never attended church experi-enced the compassion of Christ throughEric’s down-to-earth practical ministry. Indeed, one drug addict was heard to say:‘This man is like Jesus to us.’ No more fittingtribute could be given.

A friend writes: ‘If the Buchanans saw aneed, they tried to meet it. For years theylived over the hall and were often disturbedby homeless and penniless callers.

‘After a fire, a woman and her familywere accommodated in a council flat almost bare of furniture. Late on a winter’snight, Eric provided food, bedding andclothes, and the next morning deliveredfurniture.

‘Eric was zealous that people should become Christians. He told them about Jesusat the shopping centre and in pubs – some-times to their annoyance, sometimes to theirgladness.

‘He also felt passionately about those whosuffered. I was in the hall when a womancame in with her children. Her partner hadbeaten her before taking all their cash. Ericwept. Among his followers were a numberof hard men, former heavy drinkers; Ericmarched round to her partner’s house withthem to warn him off!

‘Eric retired after a stroke in 1993. Hewas one of God’s mavericks, who disliked administration and rules. Fortunately, his beloved Annie was there to put himright.

‘His legacy is the people I still meet, whothank him for getting them off drink anddrugs, out of debt and troubles and into stable and useful lives.’ – D. L./B. H.

MRS EILEENPURKISS,SOUTHAMPTONSHOLINGBORN on Christmas Day1922, Eileen was a third-generation Salvationist.

Following the family tradition – but makingher own commitment – she progressedthrough the juniors at Sutton to become asenior soldier and songster.

Her love for young people was evidencedin service as a company guard, YP recordsergeant and assistant guard leader.

In 1960 she moved to Southampton withher husband Victor and young son Adrian,transferring to Sholing, where Eileen resumed service as a songster. Loyal and dependable, she loved singing and revelled in Army activities.

Eileen was peacefully promoted to Gloryfrom hospital after a series of strokes and issorely missed by her family and all whoknew her. – B. E.

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND NEWS


RETIRED HOMELEAGUE SECRETARYMRS DORISGRIMSHAW,NORWICH MILECROSSDORIS LE DUC was born

in 1920 to Salvationist parents in St Helier,Jersey. During the Second World War she wasevacuated to Bristol and then Manchester,where she was YPSM at Harpurhey. After returning to St Helier in 1954 she becamecorps cadet guardian.

Doris moved to Norwich Mile Cross in1967 and was home league secretary for 25years. She also started the community centre.

She was much loved by family and friends,and was a well-known speaker at women’smeetings.

During her last four years in a residentialcare home Doris maintained a faithful Christian witness. She passed away peace-fully, aged 90, with her family – includingher beloved grandchildren – around her. – R. B.

EDWARD (TED) DELAMARE,STRATFORD-UPON-AVONTED was born in 1921, and as a young manmet his wife Mabel – a Salvationist – at Preston Corps. Ted subsequently became aSalvationist, bandsman, songster and localofficer. The family moved to Stratford-upon-Avon in 1969 and quickly entered intocorps life and service.

In later life Ted was unable to take an active part, but continued to attend meet-ings. He and Mabel, to whom he was devoted, were always early, and Ted greetedeveryone with a warm handshake andfriendly word.

He was a good Christian, husband and father, and was well thought of in the corpsand neighbourhood. He is much missed byMabel, their sons Alan and Colin and theirfamilies. – M. W.

[email protected]

Deputy Centre Manager David Yates and Centre Manager Captain Mike Warner of Bramwell House, Blackburn, display their paper art at the end of an origami café church, themed Eggs And Rabbits. Send in your suggested captions for this picture by email to [email protected] with the subject line ‘Picture caption competition’, or by post to Salvationist, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN. A selection of the best captions will be printed in Salvationist next month.

PICTURE CAPTION COMPETITION

Staff and volunteersare appreciatedLeigh-on-SeaDURING the Sunday morning meeting,themed Random Acts Of Kindness, appreci-ation was expressed to staff, volunteers andyoung jobseekers from the Future Jobs Fundwho work within the corps community programme.

The programme includes a day centre andluncheon club for older people and the Smiley Preschool which received an out-standing report from Ofsted. – P. J.

PLEASE note that soldiers’ tributessubmitted for publication should be nolonger than 120 words. Good qualitypictures will be included with tributes.

Bandmaster Wilson Le Page (right) retires after 25 years’ service at L’Islet; he is pictured with his successor BandmasterJonathan Bond and corps officer Captain Jamie Hill

At Providence House, Rochdale,Centre Manager Colin Mottersheadsays farewell to Derek as hemoves to his new home in thecommunity; residents and staffdecided to hold a coffee morningin Derek’s honour to mark the 18years he has lived at the Lifehouse

20-23 7 May 2011 SALVATIONIST

ADVERTS


BIBLE VERSESCommit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this:He will make your righteous reward shine like the dawn, yourvindication like the noonday sun.

(Psalm 37:5 and 6 New International Version)

QUOTEIn all of creation, humankind alone knows the gift ofcommunication via the written word. Today it takes a myriad offorms from brief electronic messages to full-scale printed books.Sometimes words seem insufficient. When overwhelmed by joyor sorrow, beauty or devastation, holiness or sin, we might bedumbstruck. At other times when word-battered or brain weary,we seek the solace of silence in the presence of theGod-beyond-words.

Evelyn Merriam, taken from Words Of Life

PRAYERDear Lord, we thank you that we have the words of life that we can find in Scripture. We also thank you that we have the Word of Life, Jesus, whom we can find in Scripture, yes, but also who is present in every moment of every day of our lives. Amen.

As overall winner of the Adult and Family Ministries photographic competition, Morag Cordiner’s picture of Rattray Head Lighthouse features, along with the other winners’ contributions, in the AFM calendar, which will be available in August from SP&S, priced £1.75

BOOK OF THE WEEKWords Of Life (May to August 2011), Hodder andStoughton, £3.50

This is Major Evelyn Merriam’s last edition of Words Of Life.She has undertaken the task for the past three years and nowhands on the torch to Major Beverly Ivany in Canada.

For this Pentecost edition, the major begins by asking thequestion: ‘What did Jesus hear, see, touch, taste, smell?’ Shethen leads the reader to look at faith through the senses.

The next section of the book invites the reader to look at Paul’sprayers. Major Merriam writes: ‘His prayers show anacquaintance with our real needs and what we should pray for –whether for ourselves or others. They offer loving patterns worthpondering.’

The guest writer for three weeks of the issue is CommissionerKeith Banks. He entitles his series Power Surge – Be Ready andlooks at some post-Pentecost events to assess the effects of thatpower surge. He avers: ‘What happened then can also happennow – to our church, our community and to ourselves. So beready!’

Following Pentecost, UK Salvationist Peter Cooke offers areflective collection of poems based on the 12 disciples.

The edition continues with a series on the book of Proverbs –Big Themes In Small Bites. Major Merriam then looks at theInescapable Christ as found in John 5–11 and the last mainsection is entitled Women In The Word.

For the Sunday readings, the major continues to look atPsalms and also uses verses from Psalm 37 in her final reading,as she commits her future service to the Lord. – P. S.

■ Words Of Life (May to August 2011) is available fromSP&S and www.amazon.co.uk

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

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