Salvationist 26 March 2011 - Amazon S3 · quickly to the earthquake and tsunami that brought devastation to the north of the country. Communication and travel were badly hit by the

INSIDE THIS WEEK

Salvation Army steps up earthquake responseNew Zealand

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People renew covenantSunderland Millfield

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Spirit moves at 124th anniversaryHorsham

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PLUS LOTS MORE!

SALVATIONISTTHE ESSENTIAL READ FOR EVERYONE LINKED TOTHE SALVATION ARMYwww.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist26 March 2011No 1288Price 60p

WWoorrllddwwiiddee ssuuppppoorrttffoorr JJaappaann PAGE 4 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

PAPERS

2 26 March 2011 SALVATIONIST www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS

� LOOKING FORWARDTO THE NICKELODEONKIDS’ CHOICE AWARDS2011

� JESUS CHALLENGESUS – THE LAST IN KA!JAM’S CURRENT BIBLESERIES

� PRIZES TO WIN,MOTHER’S DAY GIFTSTO MAKE, PUZZLESAND JOKES

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. © Shaw Clifton, 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 Shaw Clifton TERRITORIAL COMMANDER Commissioner John Matear EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARY Major Leanne Ruthven

IMPOUNDED BIBLES RELEASEDMALAYSIA’S GOVERNMENT AGREED… TO RELEASE SOME 35,000 IMPORTED BIBLESSEIZED BY CUSTOMS OFFICIALS AMID ANONGOING LEGAL DISPUTE OVER CHRIS-TIANS’ USE OF THE WORLD ‘ALLAH’ AS ATRANSLATION FOR GOD. THE GOVERNMENTSAID IT WAS RELEASING THE BOOKS BE-CAUSE IT WAS ‘COMMITTED TO RESOLVEAMICABLY ANY INTERFAITH ISSUES’.The Tablet

CHURCH-UNIVERSITY CHIEFS NEED NO LONGER BE CHRISTIANS

At least three universities in theCathedrals Group of churchfoundations – Cumbria, Roehamptonand York St John – have dropped thestipulation from their original articlesof governance that their vice-chancellors should be practisingChristians…

York St John is a solely Anglicaninstitution; Cumbria and Roehampton,still church foundations, have mergedwith secular partners.

Insisting that vice-chancellors orprincipals of the 14 institutions in theCathedrals Group should be Christianswas officially accepted as a ‘genuineoccupational requirement’ when theyachieved university-college status atvarious times over the past decade.Church Times

� FORMER LIFEHOUSE RESIDENT NOWRUNS BUSINESS

� MP EXPLAINSROLE OF FAITHCOMMUNITIES

� DRINKS POLICY IS HALF MEASURES- COMMENT

26 March 2011 salvationarmy.org.uk/warcry

QUESTION: What do you think of thecensus? The forms have landed ondoormats. Tomorrow (Sunday 27March) people in England, Wales,Northern Ireland and Scotland are giving a statistical snapshot of theirhousehold. The Republic of Ireland isholding a census in two weeks’ time.

The latest once-a-decade count has been causingcontroversy. But, as far as causing a stir is con-

Turn to page 3

War CryEst 1879No 7006THE

FIGHTING FOR HEARTS AND SOULS20p/25c

Householdsarecompletingthe censusforms

WHAT MAKESUS TICK?asks PHILIP HALCROW

BRAZIL SET TO BECOME PROTESTANT

MAJORITY

The world’s most populous RomanCatholic country, Brazil, will have aProtestant majority within ten years,the International Mission Agencyserving Pastors and Leaders (Sepal)reports.

In a study released last month,Sepal researcher Luis André Brunetostated that by 2020 the number ofBrazilian Protestants would total109.3 million out of a projectedpopulation of 209.3 million, or 52.2 per cent.The Church of England Newspaper

COMMENT

[email protected] SALVATIONIST 26 March 2011 3

THE Territorial Commander willhave little idea of how delightedI am to read, on page 11, of theministry of Chris and Laura

Neilson in Oldham. I rejoice in news oftheir Kingdom influence, but also in thefact that the TC’s article helps to lay torest some troublesome ghosts thathave long since haunted me.

Oldham, you see, was where I livedfrom 1977 until 1979. Mum and Dadwere corps officers at Oldham LeesRoad, and I supported their ministry ina number of ways: by once half-choking to death on a boiled sweet inthe hall (and then being rebuked foreating sweets in meetings by a dearcomrade who, as a rule, struggled toexpress her gift of compassion), settingfire to the ancient heater on thepremises by painting it with silver

paint on one of the rare occasions itwas actually hot (then running away)and disrupting Sunday school byteaming up with my friend JonathanSavage in the YP band as he played trombone by tying his shoelaceto the slide and moving his leg up anddown.

Given that unpromising backdrop, I love Commissioner Matear’s accountof Army life in Fitton Hill. Likewise, hisimplicit encouragement to us all to tell,in ways as diverse as we ourselvesare, the wonderful story of love.

Speaking of diversity, he may not bea Salvationist, but Bishop StephenCottrell, whose Bible study appears onpage 16, is nevertheless engaged inmuch the same line of business as weare. We – you, me, the bishop and thecommissioner – are all, as Gowansand Larsson might put it, Jesus folk,united in our aim of sharing the gospel of grace. Ours is to tell – in thepulpit, in the park or in the pub. Therest is the sovereign work of the HolySpirit.

There is a curious little story running just beneath the tranquilsurface of the village I live in.According to the parish councilminutes, a resident has objected tosome trees blocking the light from hiswindows. (Midsomer Murders it isn’t,but bear with me.) The parishcouncillors have replied to themalcontent by advising him that noone is legally entitled to light.

I have no wish to pick a fight withmy parish council, but I would beg todiffer with their ruling. If John 1:9 holdstrue, then they are wrong. God theFather sent God the Son to give lightto everyone. As I read on in John 1, itdawns on me that, theologically, eachof us is entitled to light. That legalentitlement is ours to receive or rejectas we prefer, but the point is no one isexcluded, not even the vilest offender.Mercy has triumphed over justice.That is a story worth telling.

MAJOR STEPHEN POXON, EDITOR

Story time

‘It was all so easy. Nostraining, but just preachingthe truth luminously, fullyorbed, and in love. Then all I had to do was to watch Goddo the work. Hallelujah!’

(Commissioner Samuel Logan Brengle OF)

NEWSPages 4 – 9, 18 & 19 ⟩⟩⟩⟩JapanTHQJarrowEastMidlandsNewZealandHinckleySunderlandMillfieldUpperNorwoodLeadgateLutonBourneBargoedEastbourneCitadelLondonNuneatonHorshamExeterMirfieldCoventryCityMaestegRipleyRutherglenChelmsfordSouthamptonShirleyNorwayHadleighTempleNorwichCitadelCoedpoethWrexhamReadingCentral

LETTERSPage 10 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

FROM THE COMMISSIONER

An Army of KingdomopportunitiesPage 11 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

IT WORKS FOR US

Walking by faithPages 12 & 13 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

ADULT AND FAMILY

MINISTRIES FEATURE

The complete womanPage 14 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

FEATURE

View from the hillPage 15 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

BIBLE STUDY

A storyPage 16 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

NEW COMMITMENTS

Page 17 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Army people, engagementsand tributes Page 18 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

ADVERTS

Pages 20 – 23 ⟩⟩⟩⟩

4 26 March 2011 SALVATIONIST

NEWS

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist

Worldwidesupport helpsSalvation ArmyresponseJapanTHE Salvation Army respondedquickly to the earthquake andtsunami that brought devastationto the north of the country.Communication and travel werebadly hit by the disaster, and thetrue cost in human life and prop-erty could only be guessed.

The most damaged city wasSendai, about 400 kilometresfrom Tokyo. Territorial Com -mander Commissioner MakotoYoshida was at territorial headquarters in the capital andreported: ‘Our building swayedtremendously. It was hard for usto keep standing and many of uswere really frightened.’

Public transport in the citystopped because of the earth-quake and many commuterswere unable to travel home.Commissioner Yoshida said:‘We opened our hall on theground floor of THQ to thosewho could not go home and weserved hot drinks and packedmeals.’

General Shaw Clifton assuredthe commissioner of the prayersand support of Salvationistsaround the world.

The disaster affected a 2,000kilometre north-south stretch ofthe country. Official reportsstated that more than 8,000people were dead and more than12,000 still missing.

Three Salvation Army teamsprovided vital assistance to

people affected by the earth-quake, the resulting tsunami andongoing problems at a nuclearpower station. The JapaneseGovernment recognised theArmy’s work and gave its teamspermission to enter the disasterarea and use access roads thatwere closed off to the public.

The first of the three teamswent to Sendai, where 1,000meals were served to evacuees.Hot meals and drinks wereprepared in The SalvationArmy’s mobile emergency can teen and given out at the corps. Handy towels and Army publications were alsodistributed.

Another team went to a reliefoffice in the Mito area andunloaded bottles of water,biscuits, blankets, nappies and

boxes of tissues for distributionto evacuees.

The third team headed to anarea where people had beenevacuated from the vicinityaround the Fukushima Daiichinuclear power station, but snowand shortage of petrol meantthey had to divert to other areasto support evacuees.

A British aid group that failedto obtain clearance to work inthe affected areas donated itsfood and medical supplies toThe Salvation Army.

Korea Territory arranged forthe K-Water Corporation toprovide 100,000 bottles ofwater to be sent to Japan andthe Korea Disaster Relief Asso-ciation sent 5,000 first-aid kits.Korean Salvationists began amonth of prayer for the peopleof Japan.

Major Raelton Gibbs andMajor Drew Ruthven (both IHQ)left the UK for Japan to make anassessment of the situation.

The United Kingdom Terri- tory with the Republic of Irelandpledged an initial donation of£35,000 to start the UK’s Japan-ese disaster fund. Dona tions canbe made in various ways:� Online by visiting The Salva- tion Army Japan Disaster Fundappeal page via salvationarmy.org.uk or alternatively throughjustgiving.com/Salvation-Army-Japan-Disaster-Fund� Postal donations should besent to The Japanese DisasterFund, Fundraising and Market-ing, The Salvation Army Terri- torial Headquarters, 101Newington Causeway, LondonSE1 6BN� By telephone on 0800 0289111 (24 hour)

Prayer resources for use inworship are available to down-load and the UKT website(salvationarmy.org.uk) will beupdated regularly as news isreceived from Japan. – A. R.

PICTURED CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: In Sendai supplies are distributedfrom the Salvation Army hall; people queue in the rain to collect essentialgoods; people enjoy hot drinks supplied by a Salvation Army mobilecanteen

Conference shapesministryEast MidlandsTHE division facilitated Intervention – a conferenceto create awareness of the Army’s Seeds Of Exclu-sion report and to help corps develop a strategicresponse to its findings.

Major Ivor Telfer (THQ) gave an overview of thereport and spoke on more recent research. Heexplained how difficult early life experiences canlead to social exclusion in later life and how mental-health issues, substance misuse and times of transi-tion can be contributory causes to marginalisationtoo. He also articulated the territory’s response tothe report.

With Major Telfer, the divisional training team –com prising Major Richard Cushing, Major MaureenHepburn, Major Janet Howarth, Adrian Kemp andAndrew Whitehouse (all DHQ) – facilitated small-group discussion. Prior to lunch Cap tain CarolineHarris (Nottingham Meadows) spoke of herministry in the marginalised community in whichshe serves. She shared stories of how the Army isdrawing alongside and support ing young parentstrying to raise their children in very challengingcircumstances. Small-group work after lunchenabled delegates to develop a strategic corpsresponse.

Lieutenant Kenny Allan (Mans field, pictured)spoke on the contact centre his corps facilitates. Thecorps is a neutral, safe venue where children fromseparated families can enjoy contact with their non-residential parents. The lieutenant spoke of how the

congregation is mobilised to provide this ministryand, while not breaking any confidentialities, toldthrill ing and heartbreaking stories.

After feedback Major Telfer drew the themes ofthe day together and led a time of worship andprayer. One corps leader commented: ‘This willshape the ministry of my corps from now on.’Another participant said: ‘Our corps can definitelybe more intentional, especially in our adult andfamily ministries. The day has helped me to identifythose who are at risk of exclusion. Loads of peoplelike this come through the doors of our corps hallevery week.’ – D. H.

SALVATIONIST 26 March 2011 5

NEWS

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How manyloaves have you?THQTERRITORIAL President ofWomen’s Ministries Commis-sioner Betty Matear was thespeaker at the headquartersWorld Day of Prayer service,prepared this year by the womenof Chile with the theme HowMany Loaves Have You?

When she stood up to speak,the commissioner described thetime of worship and prayer thatpreceded her message as ‘awonderful half-hour’. In her talkshe focused on the questionposed by Jesus when heperformed what was, accordingto the commissioner, ‘probablyhis most popular miracle’.

Territorial Secretary forWomen’s Ministries ColonelRosalie Peddle led the meetingand introduced various peoplerepresenting Chile. Greetingswere shared in the four mainlanguages used by Chileans, anddifferent categories of prayerhelped those present to appreci-ate some of the social and spiri-tual needs of the land.

A brass ensemble led by KevinAshman (Music Mini stries Unit)accompanied the singing and asinging group led by Major AnneRead (Pro gramme Service)presented a gentle rendition of‘Gracious Spirit’.

Providing food for thought,Commissioner Matear high-lighted the fact that Jesus, theBread of Life, was born in Beth-lehem, which translates as‘House of bread’, stressing theimportance of seeking him ratherthan the gifts he has to offer.

An offering was taken up onbehalf of Salvation Army Inter-national Development, UK, forwork in Chile. – S. P.

Trust benefitsJarrowA SPECIAL effort to raise fundsfor The Kenya Trust culminatedin a festival of praise featuringSherburn Hill Band, HebburnComprehensive School AfricanDrumming Ensemble, elocution-ist Pat Ions (Newcastle CityTemple), the corps songsters andviolinist Alexander Simpson.

With proceeds from the sale ofhandmade cards, a coffee morn -ing and donations, the corpsraised £1,034. – J. P.

Salvation Army steps up earthquake responseNew ZealandTHE Army’s operations in earthquake-affectedCanterbury have shifted up a gear. On Wednesday 2 March Salvation Army emergency services volunteers provided 65 per cent more meals to evacuated residents than they had the previous day.Psycho social support workers fielded their largestnumber of teams providing emotional support toresidents in the hardest-hit suburbs. Particular assis-tance was given to people who needed urgent careor material support such as food and water.

With warehousing secured in the Christchurchsuburb of Hornby, three specialist managers wererecruited to oversee the movement of bulk goods,heavy transport and accommodation, and to arrange travel for Salvation Army personnel. This development will allow a substantial scaling-up ofoperations needed for the longer term.

Meanwhile, the Army’s Canterbury EarthquakeAppeal reached NZ$6.2 million, up by $1.9 millionin just 24 hours. Of this total, $1.6 million wasraised through a $3 text initiative organised byWestpac Bank.

Psychosocial support per sonnel from Australiaand around New Zealand are part of SuburbanSquad teams touring the worst-affected easternsuburbs of Christchurch, assessing residents’ needs,property and infrastructure. The teams comprisestaff and engineers from EQC (the New ZealandGovernment’s Earthquake Commission) and Christ -

church City Council, with 122 Salvation Armypersonnel providing emotional support to residentsand identifying people who require additionalsupport. These include elderly people living inisolation, those with chronic health conditions andothers who are particularly stressed or anxious.Such cases were followed up by ‘flying squads’ of12 Army officers, with a large team of volunteersdelivering food, water and other goods to those inneed.

Another 14 psychosocial support workers werebased at welfare centres, providing care and supportto people evacuated from their homes.

Psychosocial team co-ordinator Major LynetteHutson says her teams are making a big differenceto people who, in many cases, had been cut off andwere yet to receive outside help. One of the mosttouching cases seen by the teams was an 18-year-old who was caring for his wheelchair-boundmother and his two adult-aged, intellectuallydisabled brothers in a house without sanitation orwater. An emerging issue is the number of elderlypeople who are struggling to get by, often withoutwater or sanitation.

On 2 March, Salvation Army emergency servicesworkers served 4,710 meals to 1,570 people atwelfare centres. This number included meals for 100emergency workers hosted at The Salvation Army’scommunity ministries centre in Linwood. Duringthat same day, Linwood Community Ministriesdelivered 382 food parcels to residents who werewithout transport and provided 212 food parcels topeople arriving at the centre for help. – C. T.


NEWS


Leadgate Corps music and drama group presents ‘Songs That Helped Win The War’. The two-night productionattracted capacity audiences

People renewcovenantSunderland MillfieldPEOPLE renewed their dedica -tion to and covenant with theLord at the mercy seat andprivately in their places in thehall at the culmination of 121stcorps anniversary meetings, ledby Chief Secretary ColonelBrian Peddle and TerritorialSecretary for Women’s Minis -tries Colonel Rosalie Peddle.

In the morning meeting, theChief Secretary challenged thecongregation by looking at thechoice faced by the children ofIsrael: captivity or covenant. Inthe evening, Colonel RosaliePeddle spoke about how Chris-tians could ask God to protectand deliver them and make theman unstoppable force in theworld.

The youth vocal groupMelodise and the corps musicsections participated in worshipand Rachel Davis and AndrewMaycock gave their testimonies,linking their Christian witness totheir everyday living.

Celebrations commenced onthe Saturday with a MusicalExtravaganza (pictured), held inthe concert auditorium of anearby school. Massed singingcompanies from six surroundingcorps, under the leadership ofDeputy Songster Leader JoanSpencer (Sheffield Citadel),presented six songs, including‘Blessed Be The Name’, ‘RockOn Rock’ and ‘I’m Glad I’m ASalvation Soldier’.

Joan’s own contributions as avocal soloist – ‘Crown Him WithPraise’, ‘Love Divine’ and ‘WillYour Anchor Hold?’ – broughtblessing and encouragement.

Jim Ely (Castleford) playedthe euphonium solos ‘Gabriel’sOboe’, ‘La Belle Americaine’and ‘Carnival Of Venice’.

Delegates to the NorthernSummer School of Music re-formed their timbrel group toperform an energetic display asthe host corps band played ‘TheWilliam Tell Overture’.

The Chief Secretary based hismessage on the one-to-one ofindividual contact, church unityand oneness with Jesus Christ.

The band played ‘The PresentAge’ and the evening concludedwith everyone joining in singing‘Christ has overcome the world’.– E. F.

Actress talks about 30-year searchHinckleyA GOOD number of people gathered at the men’sfellowship to hear actress and drama teacherLynette Watson give a talk about her father’s 30-year search for her. She explained that a friend suggested to him that he try The SalvationArmy’s Family Tracing Service – and father anddaughter were reunited within ten months. Therewas a very emotional reunion, because Lynette had been told as a small child that her father wasdead.

To illustrate her talk, she took along photos andarticles published in the national newspapers at thetime of their first meeting. Sadly, Lynette’s father

passed away suddenly three years after they werereunited. However, Lynette said she would alwaysbe grateful to The Salvation Army for making theirreunion possible and for giving her three preciousyears with him.

In a short devotional period, fellowship leaderBrian Adamson likened Lynette’s father’s story tothe parable of the lost sheep. – B. A.

Upper Norwood: Heralding a new era for thecorps Beaver Colony, Beaver Leader Jenny Moyeand Assistant Leader Tom Bullen received theirprovisional warrants. Group Scout Leader LiamCampbell from 2nd Croydon/1st Crystal Palace(SA) Beavers conducted the cere mony, supportedby Beaver Leader Patricia Campbell. Corps officerMajor Jenine Main prayed for God’s blessing on thework of the new leaders. – R. C.


NEWS

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GeneralsupportsfundraisingLutonGENERAL John Larsson (Re -tired) and Commissioner FredaLarsson visited the corps in thefirst of a series of Friday eveningmeetings raising money for theAnnual Appeal. General Larssontreated those present to the storyof how he and Captain JohnGowans, as he was then, came towrite musicals at the request ofCommissioner Will Cooper andBrigadier Denis Hunter (‘He ofblessed memory!’ said theGeneral). Burning the midnightoil as busy corps officers, ‘thetwo Johns’ embarked on acollaboration that has blessedmany since the first musical wasproduced in 1967.

Unsure of the reception aconcept as groundbreaking asmusicals might receive within theArmy, the original perfor mancewas given in front of a captiveaudience of 1,600 officers, all ofwhom, much to the relief ofCaptains Gowans and Larsson,rose to their feet to applaud whatwas clearly regarded as awelcome initiative in evangelism.

Recalling the hectic days ofvocational house parties underthe guidance of Major HubertBoardman, during which musi-cals were rehearsed from start to finish in ten days, General

Larsson testified that a number ofthe songs from the musicals werestill being put to good use aroundthe world, pointing out that heand Captain Gowans originallyasked permission to be excusedfrom the project. Per mission wasdenied, leading to the productionof some internationally re -nowned and deeply loved songs.The General told stories ofpeople who had come to faiththanks to this unique ministry.

More than £300 was raised forthe Annual Appeal. – S. P.

Centre helps Neilturn life aroundEastbourne CitadelDURING Homelessness andPoverty Sunday meetings, corpsfolk heard from Neil, who gavean honest and moving account ofhow various events in his life hadled him to become a roughsleeper in the town. He went onto say that the corps communityprogramme and the opening ofRebourne Corner, a day centrefor homeless and vulnerablepeople, had helped him turn hislife around.

Community DevelopmentWor ker Pauline Peagam gave areport on the day centre’s firstyear of ministry, highlighting thevarious services and social activ-ities that had been introduced tohelp those rough sleeping andstaying in short-term bed-and-breakfast accommodation. – D. S.

Band plays forSt David’s DaycelebrationLondonWHEN the management of theCity of London LeadenhallMarket decided to host an event

to celebrate St David’s Day, theyinvited the Central SouthernArea Fellow ship Band to play aprogramme of Welsh music overthe lunch time period.

The band played for twohours, while the market management took up a collection insupport of homeless people inWestminster. Hundreds of peoplepassed by and many stood andlistened to the music.

The band played almost everyWelsh hymn tune in the tunebook and every arrangement ofsuch music it could find. Listen-ers applauded most enthusiasti-cally after the arrangement of‘Land Of My Fathers’ takenfrom the festival series music‘British Melodies’. – B. S.

The oldest soldier at Nuneaton,Florence Gardener celebrates her100th birthday; she very muchenjoyed it when some of the songsters arrived to sing to herand she joined in the songs

Bourne: Corps officer MajorHeather Durrant celebrated her60th birthday with a party forrelatives and corps friends at thehall. In lieu of presents, sheasked for donations for theArmy’s Watershed Appeal andmore than £400 has so far beenraised to fund the building of awell in Africa. – C. G.

Bargoed: The corps held aSunday evening songs of praisemeeting to celebrate St David’sDay. Members of the GoodCompanions group joined thecorps folk for a programmewhich featured the Welshnational anthem, 11 hymns sungto Welsh music and the 23rdPsalm read in Welsh. – L. C.


NEWS


Kids get rattyExeterTHE corps was overrun with‘rats’ during half-term whenTerritorial Drama Co-ordinatorKeith Turton led 14 youngpeople through 5 days of intensefun to put on a musical based onthe story of the Pied Piper ofHamelin. The musical, ThePiper, was attended by morethan 120 people – many ofwhom had not been to the Armybefore.

Keith said: ‘Many of the youngpeople discovered talents theydidn’t know they had and it wasgood to watch the children growin confidence through the week.’The final performance took placeon the Friday evening, completewith a live band. – A. R.

Corps folk at Maesteg enjoy a St David’s Day songs of praise meeting; corps officers Captains Ann and JohnPugh encouraged everyone to wear something Welsh or red (or both) and people participated by sharing memories of St David’s Day from their childhood

Chelmsford corps officer Major Derek Jones presents Retired Corps Treasurer Wesley Holden with a certificate as he retires after 16 years’ faithful ministry selling ‘The War Cry’ in the town centre – Wesley iswell known in the town and people are already asking his successorswhere he is!

HorshamMANY people knelt at the mercyseat during the Sunday morningmeeting of 124th corps anniver-sary celebrations led by Territo-rial Commander CommissionerJohn Matear and CommissionerBetty Matear. CommissionerBetty Matear spoke during themeeting, after which God’s Spiritmoved powerfully through thecongregation.

The celebrations commencedon the Saturday with a welcomereception hosted by the Chair-person of Horsham District Coun -cil (Councillor Brian Donnelly)and Terry Donnelly and a cele-bration festival.

Worthing Songsters contri -buted to the festival, as did their timbrelists, and the corpsReflections Group and Band alsotook part. The host songstersunited with the visitors to sing‘Under His Wings’ and the TC encouraged people to learnfrom the past but not hold on to it, allowing the present to have a realistic presence for thefuture.

On Sunday morning the corpsintroduced its new kids’ choir –Mad – whose members sang ‘WeAre Marching In The Light OfGod’. The weekend concludedwith a united praise meeting,supported by nearby corps andmusicians from Brighton Con -gress Hall, who united in theevening with the ReflectionsGroup and Band. – I. W.

Mirfield: The corps hosted aninterdenominational Women’sWorld Day of Prayer led by corpsofficer Captain Sandy Davis, withmaterial prepared by women inChile. Curate Katherine Macpher-son (Mirfield Team Parish) spokeon three Scripture passages anddemonstrated that if gifts areoffered to God he will use themand multiply them. – J. L.

Coventry City: Lieut-ColonelsDawn and Roland Sewell werethe guests for the 132nd corpsanniversary meetings, sharingtheir experiences from their timeon the mission field. KenyanSalvationists Stanley Makau andBenson Kioko – who had beendelegates to the Territorial YouthBand course – also participatedin the meetings. – C. B.

Still praising after122 yearsRutherglenDIVISIONAL LEADERS MajorsVictor and Miriam Kennedy ledcelebrations for the 122nd corpsanniversary, which commencedwith a visit by the ScotlandFellowship Band.

The band contributed a Saturdayfestival – themed Praise, Testi-mony And Challenge – and contin-ued its praise theme on the Sunday,when the corps band and singinggroup also contributed. – D. M.

Ripley: Women from variouschurches in the town took part inthe Women’s World Day of Prayermeeting, held at the corps. MajorAnn Mahy (DHQ) was the guestspeaker. – S. B.

Spirit moves at124th anniversary


NEWS

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Young peoplewitness at skichampionshipNorwayTHREE Salvation Army youthteams had a busy time at theWorld Ski Championship inOslo, serving hot drinks, givingout information, talking topeople and witnessing to themabout their faith in Christ.

The Salvation Army wasdesignated three prominent areasin the city in which to work: atthe main railway station, atMajorstua tube station and at theNational Theatre railway andtube station (see picture). All thestations were used by people totravel from downtown Oslo tothe ski arena, and the openingceremony and medal presenta-tions took place nearby.

The teams also held severalmeetings at one of the city corps and presented late-eveningconcerts during the champion -ships. – J. F.

H2O benefitsfrom charityconcertSouthampton ShirleySOLENT Fellowship Band pre -sented a charity concert in aid ofthe Army’s H2O (Homeless 2Opportunity) Lifehouse Project.Centre Manager Matthew Smithgave a presentation on behalf ofthe project and Major GeoffChape (DHQ), who is the band’sexecutive officer, presented himwith a cheque for £480, theproceeds from ticket sales and acollection.

Former bandsmen from 30 to40 years ago were in the audi-ence to enjoy ‘Let There BePraise’ and the meditation ‘TheCompassionate Christ’. AubreyFord (soprano cornet), AlexManning (flugelhorn), BryanNorman (euphonium) andLawrence Findlay (piano) werethe soloists. – J. W./T. U.

Hadleigh Temple Camera Clubdisplays a selection of its photographs in Laindon Library, near Basildon; the attendant blurbmakes the Christian message quiteclear and there is take-away information about the club and theArmy and an invitation to attendBasildon Corps

LETTERS

www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist10 26 March 2011 SALVATIONIST

READERS SENDING LETTERS BY EMAIL SHOULD INCLUDE THEIRNAME, FULL RANK IF APPLICABLE AND FULL POSTAL ADDRESS� Not all letters can be printed� Please remember, letters for publication in Salvationist should be carefullythought out, logically presented and charitably expressed� The Editor reserves the right to edit letters or print extracts� Write to Salvationist (Letters), 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN oremail [email protected]

� Battledress isstill effectiveONE wonders if, in these days, we are

seeing more burkas than bonnets –

bonnets being an all-inclusive

generic term for Salvationist

headgear, whether caps or hats.

Wearing uniform always createsinterest (sometimes curiosity), providesopenings and helps us connect with thepublic. Alternatively, an obstacle for somepeople is that uniform can be a barrier.Headgear can be too intimidating,smacks of authority and is old-fashioned.

In just a few cases our battledress can bea conversation stopper, but exactly theopposite is true for most people. Thebenefits far outweigh the occasionalnegative comments from a minority ofpeople.

If we are still a Salvation Army, what isthe right way forward these days?

Whatever our misgivings, I still believethat our uniform has pulling power andcan help the wearer to plant seeds, buildbridges and engage in friendshipevangelism.Clifford Kent,Major,West Wickham

I HAVE read with great interest, in recent editions of

Salvationist, correspondence about the summer Sunday

evening community hymn singing at St Ives.

I understand that in the 1920s the open-air meeting took placeat the Malakoff, overlooking the harbour. In the middle 1920s aroad was constructed from the lifeboat house to the slipway.

Shortly after this my grandparents, Captain and Mrs Thomasand Lena Millar, were appointed to St Ives. My grandfather had avision of moving the open-air meeting to the slipway but even he

could not have envisaged the many thousands of people whowould be blessed by the ministry of various corps sections,including the Scandinavian String Band and, more recently, theHousehold Troops Band.

The gospel message has been so clearly presented bysucceeding corps officers and local officers. May Salvationistsalways have visions of bringing the gospel to the present age!Tom Hinchliffe,Bournemouth

� Seaside ministry has reached thousands of people

FROM THE COMMISSIONER

WITHIN the diversity andcomplexity of our UnitedKingdom Territory with theRepublic of Ireland we are

richly blessed with options for ministry andfor serving suffering humanity. I amencouraged when I observe that ourmotivation is to discern what God is doingand then join in.

Today there are options for layemployees in Social Services. There areopportunities within Employment Plus. Andthere are numerous professional, specialistand support roles necessary withinheadquarters. Of course, far and above all of this there are a vast number ofvolunteers.

Salvation Army officers, giving spiritualleadership and pastoral ministry, provide afoundation for this and we thank God forevery Kingdom opportunity – and I thankevery one of you for all you bring to themission and ministry of The Salvation Armyin this territory.

I can quite easily and randomly pick anyweek in my diary to illustrate the energetic,committed, skilled and passionate

being well led by the Salvationist centremanager, Colin Mottershead.

The annual social services conference atSwanwick culminates in awards being givenfor what can only be described as ‘stellar’services across the whole range of ourportfolio. There is an expectation that ourcentres involve themselves in training,empowerment, community improvementand best care. We are involved in muchmore than providing accommodation,although that is a major commitment. Ourrecent enfolding of the Salvation ArmyHousing Association (SAHA) into theSalvation Army family in a parent-subsidiaryrelationship underlines our commitment toinvest in those most in need.

The research and findings of our SeedsOf Exclusion reports have given a focus tothe expected outcomes of our work withindividuals, families and communities. Wetake every opportunity to provide a qualityservice that goes beyond the statutoryminimum. It is right that we make additionalinvestment to support an holistic servicewhere added value provides for spiritual aswell as physical, mental and emotionalneeds. I regularly see evidence confirmingthat as we work among people entrusted toour care there is a belief in and a living out ofthe gospel of Jesus – truly belief in action.All of this represents Kingdom opportunityto save souls, grow saints and servesuffering humanity.

Our diverse and complex work is acoming together of vision, idealism, faithand decency. We hold, as a value, thepreciousness of human life at all stages andin all circumstances. We work together togive opportunities for a new and fresh start,giving people and families the chance for lifein all its fullness.

I see evidence in so many situations ofgood patterns of ministry. I highlight thisbecause some work rarely getsacknowledged. Some of us are not verygood at telling the good news about whatwe are doing. What we do is because ofwho and what we believe. We have a bigvision about our work – it is the mostimportant work in the world and trulyrepresents Kingdom opportunity.

I well understand that success is notmeasured by money or numbers. When webegin with God the outcome is not simplyquantity but an offering to God – it is our reasonable service and worship. I encourage you to go and take a fresh look, get involved and work out your calling within your Salvation Army.

God bless us all! �

An Army ofKingdomopportunitiesby Commissioner John Matear, Territorial Commander

SALVATIONIST 26 March 2011 [email protected]

What we do is because of who and what we believe

workforce we have. Allow me to do that.In Oldham, at Fitton Hill, Chris Neilson

and his wife Laura live on the estate. Theyand their team work from a former policestation and are engaged with a needycommunity. Laura, a medical student, hasbuilt up and manages a much-neededmedical provision on the estate. Chris andhis team work with marginalised youngpeople and families. We walked around theestate on a cold Saturday afternoon andmet people coming from their houses tospeak to their local Salvation Army manand tell the ‘boss’ that ‘what we need is acitadel’!

The Lifehouse at Rochdale is probablyone of our oldest centres and needs to berebuilt (discussions are under way). It iswhat happens within the place and withinpeople’s lives that is transforming. I wasboth impressed and saddened at thenumber of young men, all marginalised andoften dysfunctional, that we had within ourcare. Opportunities to develop skills andwork through the issues of their past,present and future are firmly on the agendaand I thank God for the dedicated staff


IT WORKS FOR US

THE historic city of Stirling with itsmagnificent castle strategically placed atthe border of the Ochil Hills welcomesmany visitors. The city, which is sited onthe lowest point of the River Forth, issometimes described as the gateway tothe Highlands.

The Salvation Army corps building inDrip Road is well placed to meet theneeds of people, particularly in theRaploch area. Corps leaders DivisionalEnvoys Billy and Denise McMurray foundthat their calling to spiritual leadershipwas fulfilled when they were appointed tothe corps 11 years ago. Since then they

have established good relationshipswithin the corps and the community. Theirministry is strongly motivated by twoBible verses: ‘We walk by faith and not bysight’ (2 Corinthians 5:7 New King JamesVersion) and ‘For with God nothing will beimpossible’ (Luke 1:37).

WHAT’S ON OFFER?

The corps tries to make the best use of itsresources. Billy says: ‘Our hall is notmassive, but it’s amazing what can bedone.’ The corps programme consists ofSunday worship, the home league,Bargain Stop (charity shop), meals for

those in need and afurniture project. Awomen’s group, AgapeChurch and LifeChurch also meetduring the week. Corpsmembers support thevarious programmesthrough prayer, andvolunteers from thechurches provide helpin running the activities

– some having volunteered for a longtime.

Denise joins volunteers in the charityshop and finds that the shop is far morethan just a place where customers canpurchase reasonably priced goods. Forsome people, the shop is the place wherethey know that they can talk withsomeone who will listen.

During their time in the appointment theenvoys have become well known in thecity. They have forged links with variousorganisations in the community and, infaith, the corps has responded to avariety of needs. Throughout the weekalmost every part of the hall is used insome way to accommodate the energeticcommunity programme that runsalongside corps activities.

HOW IT’S WORKING

From Monday to Friday nutritious mealsare served for people in need. This caninclude almost anyone who may be goingthrough a hard time – lonely andvulnerable people, those faced withaddictions, families who have spent their


Delegates to the recent social services conferencegained an insight into various community initiatives;Major Jane Kimberley reports on the work at Stirling


giro paying off bills and have little moneyleft to buy food for the rest of the week.Billy says: ‘We could serve meals everyday of the week. However, we choose notto do so because we don’t want tobecome another crutch to lean on forthose we are trying to help.’

An open hall throughout the weekattracts people with a variety of needsand the building has become an idealplace for healthcare and welfareprofessionals to meet their clients. Thecorps works closely with Signpost, avoluntary agency that is partly funded byForth Valley Health Board. A needleexchange programme which was startedin 2007 has proved very successful.Substance users, who already feltwelcome at the hall, were more willing tobe participants in the programme. Billyexplains: ‘I always had faith that theneedle exchange would work. The factthat people felt relaxed when they came inand no one was sitting in judgment ofthem contributed to their willingness toparticipate in the scheme.’ In addition tothis, offenders who are placed by thecourts on a Drug Treatment and TestingOrder, as an alternative to a custodialsentence, receive help through thefast-track scheme. This involvesaccepting treatment for drug misuse,being frequently and randomlydrug-tested, attending court on a regularbasis to review progress and beingsupervised by social work and healthservice professionals.

Other partners who work with the corpsto meet the needs of the communityinclude podiatry and dental practitioners,nurses and a general practitioner.Stirling Council for the Homeless offersadvice and guidance and Signpost,which offers services to alcoholics,holds one-to-one client meetings.Further activities include Open Secret –a group that supports victims of abuse– and wellbeing groups that meet forhealthcare and cookery classes.

A more recent venture, run inpartnership with the Criminal JusticeService, utilises open land close to thehall. People under the care of theservice develop existing skills and learnnew ones by growing their ownvegetables.

The corps is better able to respond tochanging needs by being in touch withsome of those most in need in thecommunity. A particular area of concernwas for people who were being rehoused

into social housing and their need tofurnish their homes. Billy says: ‘We knew,by the calls we received, that there werepeople in the area who wanted to partwith good-quality furniture and we feltsure that we could put their furniture togood use.’

In this matter the corps once again tooka step of faith. It meant taking on anotherproject that would need finance for abuilding and a vehicle, organisation andpeople to make it all happen. With theagreement of DHQ, legacy money wasreleased to help set up a furniture project.Four industrial units were secured forstorage and were opened in June 2010.Stirling Council agreed to finance a furthertwo units and two vans for the deliveryand collection of items.

The furniture programme became

known as The Valley Project. As well asmaking second-hand furniture available topeople in need, it also provides trainingand employment opportunities.Warehouse supervisor Gary is no strangerto life’s challenges. As a former drugdealer he faced court and was handed

down a community service sentencewhich he served at The Salvation Army.Today, as a changed man, he isenthusiastic about his role as thewarehouse supervisor. The assistantmanager, Amy, was homeless before shewas given the opportunity to work at thefurniture warehouse. In taking up her postshe felt as if she had been given the worldand demonstrates this with a real passionfor the work.

The Valley Project not only providesmuch-needed furniture to many people inthe area, but also generates income forthe community programme. Billy andDenise are only too well aware that, in thecurrent financial climate, funding forprogrammes could be threatened andthat those they seek to serve might bemade more vulnerable as a result of this.

However, the income from thecharity shop and the furnitureproject gives some stability to thecommunity programmes inuncertain times.

FUTURE HOPES

It is hoped that the furnitureproject, which in less than a yearhas developed at some speed, willcontinue to grow. There are goodsigns that this will happen as thecouncil has offered the Army theopportunity to participate in its

recycling scheme and also in-houseclearances when a tenancy ceases.

The corps also hopes to offer a bridgingprogramme, or recovery church, byproviding Christian fellowship andteaching for people who have facedaddictions. �

[email protected]

Gary Amy

Divisional Envoy Billy McMurray meets council representatives at The Valley Project


ADULT AND FAMILY MINISTRIES FEATURE

MANY articles in women’smagazines and sometelevision programmeswould have people believe

that few women are pleased with whatthey see when they look in the mirror.

The adult and familyministries conference, to beheld at The HayesConference Centre,Swanwick, from 24 to 26June, will provide anopportunity for delegates toexplore the theme TheComplete Woman.

Various questions will beconsidered, including: Doesthe complete woman exist? Ifso, what does she look likeand how can someonebecome like her?Advertisements persuadewomen to invest in varioushair and beauty products using theslogan ‘because you’re worth it’. But ifthe products don’t work, does that meana person’s not worth it after all?

For Christian women who live in asociety that offers many distorted andinadequate role models it is so importantto adopt a mature ideal of womanhood.

The beauty portrayed in the media is notthe kind that counts. Some women whoseemingly have complete and perfectlives still struggle with low self-esteemand other problems. Using various

products may make people feel goodabout the way they look but they are notenough to make someone feel worthy,complete and perfect.

Everyone is uniquely made in the imageof God, who looked at his creation andsaw that it was very good. While theworld presents completeness as looking

good from the outside, God transformsand completes from the inside out!

For some women life is one continualrush, which leaves them feelinginadequate and unfulfilled. So much oftheir time can be devoted to others andthey feel guilty when they take time forthemselves. The conference will offerdelegates time to discover God’sdirection and healing and his renewingstrength. The programme will allow fortimes of fun and relaxation as well aschallenge.

The whole weekend is designed tohelp people focus on the kind of life Godintends and embrace the idea that worthcomes from God.

Territorial President of Women’sMinistries Commissioner Betty Matearwill be the keynote speaker on Fridayevening. Other participants include MoreThan Gold Co-ordinator Sarah-Jane Alley(THQ) and actress Sarah Grace with herone-woman show.

On Saturday morning Major HanneliseTvedt (THQ) will lead the Bible study. Inthe afternoon there will be demonstrationsand various activities for delegateparticipation, including soap-making,cake-decorating, quilting and anorganised country walk.

On Saturday evening there will be theopportunity for everyone to dress up intheir glad rags and enjoy a special meal,

with BBC Songs OfPraise presenter PamRhodes as theafter-dinner speaker.Pam will also besigning her books,which will be availablefor purchase. DuringSunday worship Pamwill interview some ofthe delegates at theconference’s ownsongs of praise event.

As in previous yearsthe Act Out conferencefor drama delegates willrun at the same time asthe AFM conference. �

� For more informationcall 020 7367 4956 or [email protected] andapplication forms are also available atwww.salvationarmy.org.uk/complete

woman

� Major Smith is Associate Adult and

Family Ministries Officer, THQ

ThecompletewomanMajor Lorna Smith looks forward to the adultand family ministries conference


The Complete Woman24 – 26 June 2011

The Hayes Conference Centre, Swanwick

FEATURE


IN November 2009, after several yearsof consultation and planning,contractors arrived at William BoothCollege. Their task? To bring a college

that was built in the early 20th centuryinto the 21st century, making it not onlyfit for purpose but, in recognising thereare now more than 1,000 part-timestudents undertaking courses via theSchool for In-Service Training andDevelopment (SISTAD), to create amuch-needed resource for the territorythat will stand the test of time.

However, the fact that the buildingsare Grade II listed meant not onlycomplying with strict codes of building practice and restorationrequirements, but also having to meetthe onerous demands of the regulatoryauthorities.

Clear boundaries were established toensure contract work did not negativelyimpact college life, though this meantthe erection of unsightly metalhoardings, designated safe walkingroutes and even a pedestrian crossingcomplete with traffic lights. What wasn’taccounted for was the vast quantity ofmud swamping the entire campus forweeks on end, or the suddenappearance of contractors carryingVictorian pipework that had served the

college well but clearly neededreplacing. There was only one recordedcollision between man and pipe;unfortunately for the contractors ithappened that the principal was walkingby when pipe emerged out of adoorway, closely followed by the youngcontractor carrying it!

No one knew how managing acontract of this extent and intensitywould impact on the life of the college.However, staff and cadets acceptedwith great grace the constant difficultiesthat emerged and have gone out of their way to ensure the continuation ofspecial events that could no longer beheld at the college, such as CovenantDay. This was held instead at SunburyCourt in the former High Councilchamber.

It was at the darkest point in winterthat the WBC community saw the firstglimpse of ‘light’; the return to thecollege of Houses 2, 3 and 4, completelyrefurbished and providing 17 new flatsand 37 short-stay units, the latter all ensuite. These have been refurbished tothe highest standards.

Now, not only can the college offergood-quality accommodation forSISTAD students, but also provide anexcellent resource to the territory –

offering a place for personal/corpsretreats and territorial events.

Soon after the handover of the firstresidential block came the return of thedining room. Gone were the old kitchens(and, for some, the memories of themen’s and women’s dining rooms). Thebuilding now comprises a modernkitchen and servery capable of providingmeals for 200 people daily, with facilitiesthat can be adapted to extend diningcapacity to more than 400 forconferences and special events.

To ensure good stewardship ofSalvation Army property, the old diningblock now houses a new gymnasium,Jam (Jesus And Me) Club and nursery,the latter complete with the latestsensory equipment designed forpreschool learning and a brightlycoloured external play area furnishedwith mural, climbing wall and giantpencils.

The refurbished administration andteaching block will also house theInternational Heritage Centre, completewith research centre and museum. Nineteaching units will be available, eight ofwhich can open up to make fourextended units, all complete withmodern audiovisual equipment. A newmultimedia suite and refurbished librarywith the potential to house 12,000books will provide new teaching facilitiesand resources for cadets and students.

The assembly hall, with means tostream services live on the internet, anda new community hub with prayer room,are scheduled to be handed back to thecollege in May. The remainingrefurbished accommodation will behanded back in July, in readiness for thenew intake of cadets. The final stage ofthe project will be to transform the oldbuildings along the ‘top avenue’ into sixquarters for college officers. Thecompletion of that particular work willsignify the conclusion of the largestbuilding project the territory has everundertaken.

Plans are now under way for theofficial reopening, to be conducted bythe Territorial Commander on 30 September. Tours for those wishingto see the refurbished accommodationand classrooms are being planned prior to the celebration. Further details willfollow. �

� Major Warner is project

co-ordinator, William Booth College

View from the hillMajor John Warner describes the progress ofbuilding works taking place at Denmark Hill

[email protected]


BIBLE STUDY

IFIRST encountered the real impact ofthe Christian story when I saw thetelevision film Jesus Of Nazareth as ateenager. I can still remember the power

of the story – especially the Crucifixion. Forthe first time its meaning and relevanceburnt their way into my heart and I foundmyself weeping uncontrollably.Embarrassed by this show of emotion, I ran from the room and threw myself ontomy bed. After a while my mother came tosee what the matter was. She comfortedme, but told me – nicely – to pull myselftogether. But I couldn’t. Not then, or now.

The power of this story changes lives.The Christian faith is first and foremostthe Christian story.

When Jesus sent out the first Christiansto conquer the world with his message oflove, they did marvellous things in thepower of God’s Spirit – but most of all,they told a story. They told people whatGod had done in Jesus, and explained

the difference this had made in their ownlives. They declared that it could make adifference for the whole world.

On the Day of Pentecost Peterpreaches his very first sermon. He simplytells the crowds about the things he hasseen and experienced. He tells them thatthey have crucified the One sent by God,but who God has vindicated by raisinghim to new life. He tells them of theimpact of Jesus on his own life. Later,when expressly forbidden from teachingin the name of Jesus, Peter responds:‘We cannot keep from speaking aboutwhat we have seen and heard’ (Acts 4:20New Revised Standard Version).

A CITY OF TWO TALES

Peter is telling two stories – about Jesusand about his own personal experience.Essentially, we are called to do the samething.

People need to know about Jesus. It is

a tragedy that many young people aregrowing up without knowing even the basic facts about his life and ministry.

Paradoxically, it is often the telling of ourown story that is the best way into telling thestory of Jesus. We live in challenging times.Many are cynical about anyone who offersoptimism and hope. Many still cling to aso-called rational and scientific world viewthat they fancifully imagine has somehow‘disproved God’. Consequently, thewhimsical speculations of Dan Brown andintemperate put-downs of Richard Dawkinsseem to get a better airing than the gospelof Jesus Christ.

What people will listen to is the testimonyof others. This is something that cannot begainsaid or disproved. You may think thatscience has disproved God, or that the NewTestament is unreliable, but you cannotdismiss the heartfelt experience and livingtestimony of a friend who simply tells youwhat faith means for them. This is how thegospel spread in the first place – and we canread about it in that actually very reliablebook called the Bible!

And this is how faith spreads today – oncewe begin to get the story out. First of all, ourstory of who God is for us, then the centralstory – that of Jesus himself.

A STORY, NOT A STATEMENT

The Christian faith was a set of storiesbefore it was a set of statements. What God offers and desires is relationship. That is why in Jesus he sends us a man, not a manifesto.

A BEAUTIFUL TRUTH

The truth about God is multifaceted, like abeautiful jewel. Most of us will only ever seeor appreciate a small part of it. Like everyrelationship, there will always be more tolearn. But this also means that our story –our small glimpse of the multifaceted truth –is precious and important. We will see andexperience something of the beauty andmajesty of God that others are not seeing,and not experiencing. Therefore, it is all themore important that we learn how to share it.

JESUS THE STORYTELLER

Jesus often taught through a story. He knew this was the best way to communicatethe sorts of truths you had to learn, inhabitand embody for yourself. The Bible is inactual fact a library – a collection of books,which are themselves collections of stories.Inspired by the Spirit of God, they don’tprovide easy answers but are a gateway into our relationship with God. �

A storyThe Bishop of Chelmsford, the Right RevStephen Cottrell, continues his York Courseseries for Lent entitled Rich Inheritance…Jesus’ Legacy Of Love


People need to know about Jesus...many young people are growing upwithout knowing even the basic factsabout his life and ministry


NEW COMMITMENTS

[email protected]

NEW COMMITMENTS IN MARCH

19 Soldiers

35 Adherent members

8 Junior soldiers

Out of 62 new commitments reported in Salvationist in March, 9 were invited by a friend; 2 were contacted by a War Cry seller; 2 received help when homeless; 2 joined a programme forunemployed young people; 2 received support after a bereavement;2 are volunteer workers; 1 visited the corps café; 1 came through ayouth project; 1 joined the lunch club; 1 joined the children’s club.

Totals for this year so far:Soldiers: 105Adherent members: 99Junior soldiers: 47

Lawrence LoraineAdherent memberSunderland Millfield

LAWRENCE had been a young people’s band member many yearsago. When bereaved of his wife he returned to the Army where he waswarmly welcomed into the fellowship. He has since rededicated hislife to God by kneeling at the mercy seat and testifies to having comehome. Corps officer Major Stephen Naylor welcomed Lawrence asan adherent member. – E. F.

George MuscroftMargaret MuscroftSoldiersSheringham

GEORGE and Margaret were attracted to the corps by the friendlinessof the people. They chose the song ‘I Would Be Thy Holy Temple’ tobegin a new phase of Christian commitment. Corps officer Major AlanRead enrolled George and Margaret as soldiers. – A. C.

Pat ThompsonSuzy RackleyTony JacksonAdherent membersRipon

PAT started to attend the corps when her grandson Dylan asked toreturn to the place where he took part in a nativity scene. During the24-7 prayer week she committed her life to the Lord, as did Tony,who attends Sunday worship and midweek lunch clubs. Early in 2010Suzy and her family transferred to the corps from Shildon.

Corps officers Captain Steve and Lieutenant Angela Noblewelcomed Pat, Tony and Suzy as adherent members. – P. C.

Pauline LawrenceAdherent memberBrightlingsea

WHEN Pauline retired from the caring profession she worked part-time in a charity shop where she met many lonely people, but she stillfelt that there was something missing from her life. In 2009, on themorning of the corps carol service, she decided to clear snow fromthe entrance to the Army hall, which is opposite her home. Sheaccepted an invitation to the service and soon realised that God wasmissing from her life. She said: ‘I truly believe he was knocking on mydoor for years and I wouldn’t let him in. Now I love going to TheSalvation Army.’

Corps officer Major Sue Myhill welcomed Pauline as an adherentmember. – J. F.

Katy HillaryMatthew ToddGeorgina AyresKeith NorwoodAnne MooreAdherent membersCrook

KATY and Matthew came into contact with the Army through theFuture Jobs Fund programme, which provides employmentopportunities for long-term unemployed young people. Katy becamea Christian and Matthew rediscovered his faith.

During a visit to the corps café Georgina entered the worship halland felt that God was calling her to the Army. Keith went to aChristmas event and continued to attend. Anne worships at the corpsand volunteers at the café.

All five were moved and excited to make their commitment to God.They are passionate about their faith and testify to how God hashelped them in their lives. Corps officers Lieutenants Dawn and MarkAnderson welcomed Katy, Matthew, Georgina, Keith and Anne asadherent members. – D. A.

When the Care and Share Shop opened shebecame a volunteer and worked there untiladmitted to hospital five days before her promotion to Glory.

Edie was selfless, gentle and encouraging.Her whole life was testimony to a deep faithin God. – M. P.

SONGSTERRESERVIST MRSPAMELA WHEATON,UPPER NORWOODPAM was born in Gilling-ham in 1925, the eldest ofthree daughters. She loved

the Army way of life – whether as a corpscadet, with the sunbeams, the home league,selling The War Cry or, especially, in her serv-ice as a songster. Pam enjoyed meeting andtalking to people and showed a caring attitude.

She met her husband Harry while workingat Woolwich Arsenal. Although not a Salva-tionist, Harry supported Pam in all her Armyservice. She revelled in their three children –Gail, Ray and Lee – and found great fulfil-ment as a mother.

The last few weeks of her life were bornewith courage, cheerfulness and a readiness tomeet the Lord, whom she loved. – L. W.


ANNOUNCEMENTS AND NEWSPROMOTED TO GLORY

Queenie Anderson, Staines; Hazel Breeze, Elsie

Robinson, Lincoln.

Major Janet Gilson from Hong Kong on 15 March.

Her mother, Mrs Sylvia Lockwood, can be contacted

care of her daughter, Mrs Susan Rolph,

, Southend-on-Sea


ARMY PEOPLEAPPOINTED

Effective 7 April:

Territorial Envoys Craig and Gemma Gaudion,

Liverpool South Team Ministry with Stoneycroft.

Effective 2 June:

Captain Graeme Parkhill, additional appointment,

Regional Candidates Officer, Ayrshire, West Scotland

Division.

Effective 7 July:

Major Angela White, Gütersloh, Mansergh

Barracks Red Shield Centre, Germany.

Effective 28 July:

Majors Patricia and Stuart Risdale, Ringwood.

Effective 1 October:

Major Christine Bailey, Prestonpans.

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES

Diamond: Rtd CT Stuart and Rtd S/Sec Mrs Jean

Holmes, Eastbourne Citadel (31 March); Rtd CSM

Ron and Mrs Joan Foster, Histon.

Golden: Eric and Mrs Margaret Walker,

Lavenham (27 March); B/Librarian Trevor and

Ladies Fellowship Treasurer Mrs Daphne

Middleton, Norwich Mile Cross (1 April).

BEREAVED

Major Sharon Baker, THQ, of her mother

Margaret Evans; Major Brian Slinn, Bromley, of

his brother Gerald; Ronald Smith, Lincoln, of his

wife Hazel, Miriam Marshall, Lincoln, and

Lieutenant Graeme Smith, Dartford, of their

mother; Trevor Turnbull, Staines, of his mother

Brenda; Sue Morehouse, Derby Central, of her

mother.

RETIRED OFFICERS

Birthday congratulations: Major Lilian Glover,

, Enfield

(85 on 1 April); Mrs Brigadier Dorothy Hankey,

, Herne Bay

(90 on 1 April); Major Meta Robinson,

, Barnstaple (85 on

2 April); Lieut-Colonel Lincoln Parkhouse,

, Enfield (80 on

3 April).

ENGAGEMENTSGENERAL-ELECT LINDA BOND:

Lancaster Hotel, London (welcome), Sun 17 Apr

THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF

(COMMISSIONER BARRY SWANSON)

AND COMMISSIONER SUE SWANSON:

Lancaster Hotel, London (welcome to General

Linda Bond), Sun 17 Apr

THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

(COMMISSIONER JOHN MATEAR)

AND COMMISSIONER ELIZABETH MATEAR:

Fellowship House, Isle of Wight (opening), Isle of

Wight (reopening after refurbishment), Sat 2 Apr;

Pokesdown, Branksome, Poole, Sun 3; Sunbury

Court (TAC), Fri 8; Clowne, Sat 9*; Grantham,

Newark, Sun 10*; Bedford (welcome to Moderator of

Free Churches Group), Wed 13; ICO, Th 14;

Lancaster Hotel, London (welcome to General

Linda Bond), Sun 17

THE CHIEF SECRETARY

(COLONEL BRIAN PEDDLE) AND

COLONEL ROSALIE PEDDLE:

Southern (divisional celebration), Sun 10 Apr; Southern

(divisional officers retreat), Mon 11 - Wed 13;

Lancaster Hotel, London (welcome to General Linda

Bond), Sun 17; Bristol Easton, Fri 22 - Sun 24

Commissioners Larry and Gillian Bosh: West

Norwood, Sun 27 Mar

Commissioners Lalkiamlova and Lalhlimpuii:

India Northern, Wed Th 7 Apr; Sri Lanka (installation

of new territorial leaders), Fri 8 - Sun 10

Commissioners Amos and Rosemary Makina:

Malawi (inauguration), Sat Sun 27 Mar

Commissioner Robert Street: USA (International

Doctrine Council), Sun 20 Mar - Sat 26

*wife will not accompany

TRIBUTESFLO URQUHART,CUMBERNAULDFLO first came to the Armythrough the corps outreachprogramme. A committedmember of the over-60 clubfor many years, she took on

responsibilities within that group includingbirthday sergeant. A gifted pastoral carer, shealways had time for people and time to bringthem to God in prayer.

Flo went to be with the Lord after a lengthyillness during which she continued to be firmin her faith, witnessing to the hospital staffand visitors. Her impact and influence on thecorps and the community were evidenced bythe more than 100 people who attended herthanks giving service in heavy snow. Herfriends thank God for her life and that she isnow at Home. – S. M.

SONGSTER MRSEDITH MILDON,GUISBOROUGHEDIE was born in Barnsta-ple in 1922 and signed herArticles of War in 1941.She met her husband Ron

at an open-air meeting. They had a daughter,Jenny, and two grandchildren. In 1957 amove to the North East took them to Guis-borough, where Edie was singing companysergeant, a faithful songster and a homeleague and over-60 club member. She alsofaithfully visited care homes and hospitalsand sold the Army papers for many years.

Major Janet GilsonTRIBUTES have been paid to Major JanetGilson following news of her promotion toGlory in Hong Kong. A man has been arrestedin connection with Major Gilson’s death,which occurred while she was visiting herniece.

During nearly 40 years of active officership,Major Gilson served in corps, divisional andterritorial appointments across the UK and Ireland and spent two years in Russia when theArmy’s work there was just reopening.

The major entered retirement in 2007 from Leigh-on-Sea in the London North-East Division where she was the corps officer for acouple of years, including several months afterofficial retirement. She remained in the area,close to family, and was a valued member ofthe corps fellowship.

Divisional Commander Major Carol Baileypaid tribute to Major Gilson: ‘It was with greatsadness and shock that we learnt of the pro-motion to Glory of Major Janet Gilson. MajorGilson was a Salvation Army officer of greatexperience. She was a deeply spiritual womanand was highly respected and loved by all thosewith whom she worked and came into contact.

‘As a Christian minister and leader sheserved in many capacities for the Army, not justin the UK but also in Russia. She was an inspi-rational person and she will be sadly missed.She has influenced so many people over theyears, in her ministry and in her witness, andwe give thanks to God for her life and service.

‘Her family and friends are being supportedpastorally by the local corps and division. Wewould encourage those who knew Janet to joinus in prayer for her family.’ – A. R.


NEWS

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Wrexham corps officer Major Ian McCredie receives a nasty shock whenSinging Company Leader Kath Harry leads the Sunday morning meeting,themed Choices, offering the congregation the opportunity to choosehow to style the major’s hair!

YP annual funds missionaryworkCoedpoethYP ANNUAL weekend com -menced with a Saturday eveningprogramme featuring Wrexham

Members of Reading Central’s Central Club for the Retired meet for a teaparty to celebrate Barbara Warren’s 100th birthday – Barbara received ahandbag, purse and a basket of flowers from club members and ispictured with corps officers Majors Iain and Alison Hudson and Over-60Club Leader Ruth Johnson

Singing Company, the SAK(Salvation Army Kids) Singers,the combined Coedpoeth andRhosllanerchrugog Bands and alearners’ brass group that formedonly six months ago.

A retiring collection raisedfunds for the Army’s missionarywork. – J. H.

Southampton Shirley: Guestspeaker and pianist RichardPhillips (Kettering) presentedan afternoon of inspiration andchallenge. He played the tunesof songs that influenced his lifeand in referring to the song‘Somebody Prayed For Me’assured the congregation itswords were true for them too. – J. W.

Lord Dannatturges listenersto seek God’sguidanceNorwich CitadelGENERAL Lord Dannatt,former Chief of the GeneralStaff, spoke at the March First Sunday meeting and the band, songsters, singingcompany and young people’sband took part.

Lord Dannatt recalled hisArmed Services career, span-ning 40 years, and explainedhow his experiences consoli-dated his resolve, made as aschoolboy, to be a committedChristian. He urged his listen-ers to seek direction and guid-ance to follow a life ofobedience and commitment toGod, always open to the powerof the Spirit.

An appeal on behalf of the Soldiers’ and Airmen’sScripture Readers Association,of which Lord Dannatt is president, raised £370. He ispictured receiving a chequefrom corps officers Majors Sally and Ian McBride. – B. C.

20-23 26 March 2011 SALVATIONIST

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BOOK OF THE WEEKFather Fiction by Donald Miller, Hodder & Stoughton£11.99

Through his book, Donald Miller writes to young men who havegrown up with the experience of fathers who were absent.Reviewing this book is a woman, older than she cares to be,whose father was present from the moment she was born to theminute he died, so it was very interesting to see whether or notthe subject matter would hold my attention for 195 pages. It did.

The book is about the experiences of one fatherless man andhow he came to learn what being a man was about. Ladies, youmight be interested to know! Though if you go a slight shade ofpink when reading about men’s body parts, this may not be thebook for you.

At first I was a little concerned that, in every chapter, Donreiterates that his father had left the family home when theauthor was a small child, as if we may have forgotten that fact. I found myself hoping that the book wouldn’t sink into self-pity– but as the chapters unfolded, this concern disappeared.

The whole book is serious, funny, full of advice and insightful,and some of Don’s journey was uncomfortable to read about.However, it was a privilege to enter his life, even though I feltlike I was intruding sometimes. The book is very readable andnot so light that you would dismiss it.

I would imagine that if you have been a child whoexperienced the broken relationship of your parents, this bookmight help you come to understand where your journey couldtake you.

The message that I take away is that, even though you mayfeel alone and life tells you that you are alone, you are notabandoned. Our Heavenly Father, who is perfect, loving,nurturing and kind is there to be found by the fatherless.

Perhaps girls and young women won’t get much from thisbook but I am certain that the above paragraph is true foreveryone. – A. C.

� Father Fiction is available from good bookstores and onlineat amazon.co.uk

BIBLE VERSEChildren, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.‘Honour your father and mother’ – which is the firstcommandment with a promise – ‘so that it may go well with youand that you may enjoy long life on the earth.’ Fathers, do notexasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the trainingand instruction of the Lord.

(Ephesians 6:1–4 New International Version)

SONGHave you ever stopped to think how God loves you?It sounds quite incredible, and yet it’s true.Nothing on this earth or in the heavens aboveIs as sure and certain as God’s love.

O it’s as high as the sky and it’s as deep as the sea,And it’s as wide as the world, God’s love for you and for me.We can’t escape his love, or take ourselves out of his care,So where could we hide from his love?His love is everywhere.

Everything is changing in the world today,There’s one thing reliable in every way,Other things may alter but it’s clear and plainThat the love of God is just the same.

Wider than the human mind can realise,His love is unlimited and never dies;Though we don’t deserve it, every day it’s new;That’s the love of God for me and you.

John Gowans (SASB 49)

PRAYERLord, we thank you that we are your children and that we cancome to you, our Heavenly Father, for all we need. Amen.

PICTURE OF THE WEEK

Spring in Snowdonia. Picture: LIS DAWSON

Documents

Salvationist 26 March 2011 - Amazon S3 · quickly to the earthquake and tsunami that brought devastation to the north of the country. Communication and travel were badly hit by the