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22 December 2012 // No. 1378 // Price 60p // Also available digitally

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CONTENTS

Salvationist 22 December 20122

3. FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR

4. PAPERSThis week’s quotes from the papers

5. – 10. NEWSRomania // THQ // USA Southern // Norwich Citadel // Newbiggin-by-the-Sea // Worksop // London // Southsea // Basildon // Maesteg // Chesham // Street // Hadleigh Temple // Halifax // Nottingham William Booth Memorial Halls // Sherburn Hill // Hamilton // Bromley Temple // Lurgan // Cheltenham Citadel // Southampton Sholing // Birmingham Citadel // Hinckley // Clydebank // Woodford // Margate // Tunstall // Bootle // Newport Citadel // Dunstable // Harold Hill //Middlesbrough Pallister Park // Clowne // Govan // Southampton Shirley // Blackburn // Cirencester // Camborne //

11. THE GENERAL’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGEA Christmas embrace

12. – 14. A CHRISTMAS MEDITATIONA new direction – another way...

15. BIBLE STUDYJesus, the Light of the world

16. & 17. LETTERS

18. & 19. NEW COMMITMENTS

20. & 21. ANNOUNCEMENTSArmy people, engagements and tributes

22. & 23. ADVERTS

12. – 14.

6.

Cover design by Jonathan Carmichael

Poem by Stephen Pearson

8. 5.

Salvationist 22 December 2012 3

SALVATIONISTGENERAL INQUIRIES (tel) 020 7367 4890(email) [email protected] (web) www.salvationarmy.org.uk/salvationist(fax) 020 7367 4691

MANAGING EDITOR Stephen Pearson – (tel) 020 7367 4891

ASSISTANT EDITOR Major Jane Kimberley – (tel) 020 7367 4892

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Laura Barker – (tel) 020 7367 4893

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Kersten Rieder – (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]

DIGITAL SALVATIONISTFind Salvationist on Facebook www.facebook.com/salvationistonline

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A registered newspaper published weekly by The Salvation Army (United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland) on behalf of the General of The Salvation Army and printed by Wyndeham Grange, Southwick. © Linda Bond, General of The Salvation Army, 2012. The Salvation Army Trust is a registered charity. The charity number in England and Wales is 214779, in Scotland SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland CHY6399.

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN (tel) 020 7367 4500(tel) 0845 634 0101

THE SALVATIONARMYFOUNDER William Booth

GENERAL Linda Bond

TERRITORIAL COMMANDERCommissioner André Cox

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND PUBLISHING SECRETARYMajor Leanne Ruthven

FRIEND OF SINNERS – THANK GOD!IN her Christmas message on page 11, General Linda Bond writes about broken lives, about people who are lonely and lost, and suggests that we can be surprised because sometimes these lost souls ‘are actually the ones who appear to have it all together’.

From kings to commoners, princes to paupers, ministers of religion to unchurched heathens – and all stations you can think of in between – the common lot of humanity is to fall into sin. A recent article in Salvationist by the Rev Graham Hellier explored the Garden of Eden story in Genesis. He wrote: ‘We are Adam and Eve – we all experience temptation… Sin is not an infection passed relentlessly down the generations. It is a falling short that characterises us all as humans.’

In his book, King Alfred The Great Of England, Jacob Abbott states: ‘The noblest human spirits are always, in some periods of their existence, or in some aspects of their characters, strangely weakened by infirmities and frailties, and deformed by sin. This is human nature. We like to imagine that we find exceptions, and see specimens of moral perfection in our friends or in the historical characters whose general course of action we admire; but there are no exceptions. To err and to sin, at some times and in some ways, is the common, universal and inevitable lot of humanity.’

Or as the Bible expresses it so much more succinctly: ‘All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God’ (Romans 3:23 New International Version).

The General’s message makes clear where the remedy lies: ‘God took on human flesh, moved into our neighbourhood and spent his life in search of those who needed to reconnect with their Maker.’

We cannot fix ourselves. Oh, we can be sorry! We can be sincerely regretful and remorseful. But without the Christ, whose intervention into our world we celebrate at Christmas each year, we are lost. And, like the little boy in the General’s message, we might remain unaware that someone is looking out for us.

This is the heart of the Christmas story. A loving father takes pity on his wayward child and makes provision to bring that much-loved child back into the fold. And it took a miracle – indeed, a number of miracles.

It took a miracle to have the Son of God clothed in humanity: a real flesh-and-blood baby who was vulnerable, as all babies are.

It took a miracle to sustain the Christ-child through the early years of his life, when powerful forces were intent on killing him.

It took a miracle to combine in him the divinity of Almighty God and the true humanity we all share. This is at the heart of Salvation Army doctrine.

And all these miracles of love and grace were so that God himself might be our guest – the sinner’s friend. Thank God for the Christ-child, whose advent heralds our redemption.

STEPHEN PEARSON

FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR

PAPERS


THIS WEEK’S QUOTES FROM THE PAPERS MONARCHS TO BE ALLOWED TO MARRY A CATHOLICThe laws of succession will be changed… so that a future British king or queen can marry a Catholic…

Nick Clegg, the Deputy Prime Minister, announced that the Government had received the necessary consent from Commonwealth countries to press ahead with a Bill to make the change at the ‘earliest opportunity’.

The Succession to the Crown Bill will also mean men no longer take precedence over women in the line of succession…

However, the Act’s prohibition on a Catholic becoming king or queen remains in place.The Tablet

FREE-SCHOOL BID TO DROP RE FAILSFree schools must teach RE or lose their funding, the Government has insisted, after a dispute in Bristol over a new free school that said it planned to drop the subject…After concerns were raised by clergy

in the area, and the Department for Education had been alerted, the school has now said that RE will be included as part of the curriculum.Church Times

ANGLICAN COMMUNION IS NOW A ‘COMMUNITY’The Anglican Communion can no longer be considered a communion of churches but a ‘community of com-munities’, the Archbishop of Canterbury has told the Primates of the Anglican Communion.In a pessimistic farewell letter to the

leaders of the Anglican Communion, Dr Rowan Williams’ final letter to the primates as Archbishop of Canterbury conceded that nothing now bound the Communion together.The Church of England Newspaper

THE FAITH IN 140 CHARACTERSIn addition to his other titles, Pope Benedict XVI is now @Pontifex. We welcome him to Twitter, which with its 140-character limit will present the sort of intellectual challenge that the Holy Father enjoys… Let us assume that the Pope will employ Latin, a naturally concise language… as an expression of Christian joy, how about Magna voce rideo? The literal translation is ‘I laugh with a great voice’; the Twitter colloquial is ‘Laugh out loud’. Traditionalists, take note: MVR is LOL in the Extraordinary Form.The Catholic Herald

NEWS


Fabulous resource for all midweek groupsTHQ

LEADERS of midweek activi-ties including Cameo, home league and men’s, women’s or older people’s groups will find something for everyone in the 2013 edition of Connect.

The attractive volume contains six programmes for each month and provides a variety of ideas for meetings and activities. Connect is produced to help lead-ers with ongoing planning for frequent midweek pro grammes. The book comes complete with a CD so that if required the resources could be copied and used within the groups.

Connect costs £15 for 12 months of ideas. The January-June edition is now available and the July-December material will automatically be sent to subscribers at a later date.

For more information either speak to your corps officer, or contact Terri Milton, Adult and Family Ministries Unit, THQ, 101 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BN, email [email protected] or call 020 7367 4952. – V. M.

Children receive giftsROMANIA

MAJOR Brian Miller, Nigel Saunby (Doncaster) and Andy Pease and Darren Middleton (both Southend Citadel) are pictured during their visit to deliver 550 shoeboxes filled with Christmas gifts for children. They also took laptops and a microwave for various corps.

The team listened to moving stories as they visited families in their homes. – B. M.

In Norwich, 50 bikers from Stalham present gifts for the Toys and Tins Appeal, run in partnership with

BBC Radio Norfolk, to CSM Hazel Sommerville (Norwich Citadel) and Major Alex Bishop (DHQ)

Weekly broadcast approaches first anniversaryUSA SOUTHERN

THE territory’s weekly tele-vision broadcast Sal va tion Army Today is approaching its first anniversary. Published every Thursday, the resource uses sophisticated software that can track all media mentions of the Army. The programme is deliberately intended to be generic, although much of the news at present comes from the USA and Canada and can be viewed on a dedicated channel at youtube.com.

Chief Secretary Colonel Brad-

ford Bailey is asking for help in making SA Today a truly international spotlight on Sal -vation Army world news. The email address for news, video footage and photos is [email protected] – A. R.

Corps celebrates old and newNEWBIGGIN-BY-THE- SEA

THE 110th corps anniversary weekend led by Captain Howard

Russell (DHQ) was well attended. The weekend began with a Saturday festival led by the band and songsters and included soloists Hannah Montgomery (piano), Ivan Storey (vocal) and a euphonium duet by Joe Dobinson and Hannah.

The Sunday morning meet-ing followed the theme Old And New Treasures. No 1 on the roll Sylvia Bennett and newest corps member Kathleen Parker-Shiel cut the anniversary cake.

The focus for the afternoon meeting was Hopes, Dreams And Visions and concluded with the rousing singing of the Newbiggin Anthem. – P. H.

At Worksop

Lieut-Colonel

Ivor Telfer (THQ)

presents

Aux-Captain

Ken Beard

with a certificate

of recognition

for 75 years’

service as a

bandsman

NEWS


Parliamentarians welcome The Salvation Army to lead annual carol serviceLONDON

‘THE Salvation Army is privi-leged to conduct the Parlia-mentary Carol Service, in this place where history oozes from every block,’ proclaimed Major Noel Wright (THQ) to a crowd of MPs, peers, staff and visitors gathered in the 11th-century Westminster Hall. The event, held annually, was hosted by John Bercow, the Speaker, and accompanied by members of the International Staff Band. Territorial leaders Commis-sioners André and Silvia Cox attended along with Chief Secretary Colonel David Hinton and Colonel Sylvia Hinton.

After the ISB’s introductory contributions, ‘Christmas Re joic -ings’ and ‘A Starry Night’, the band accompanied several carols as the enthusiastic congregation sang ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing’ and delighted in ‘O Little Town Of Bethlehem’. Mr Bercow

brought the Bible reading from John 1:1–14, followed by a short lesson in which he described the carol service as ‘an unmissable and treasured fixture in the parlia-mentary calendar’. He alluded to the Territorial Commander’s prayer, spoken just moments before, in which Commissioner Cox asked for God’s blessing and wisdom on Parliament to govern the UK. The Speaker empha-sised: ‘None of us should ever take our freedom and democracy for granted. In this festive period, that is worthy of a thought.’

‘O Come, All Ye Faithful’, concluded the congregational singing, after which the Speaker’s Chaplain the Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin pronounced the benedic-tion. After the service the Terri-torial Commander explained the

importance of the Army’s pres-ence at this event. He said: ‘It is an incredible privilege for us to come and to minister in this way. The fact that so many people

gather just for these few moments speaks volumes about how people appreciate the time that we have when we come and share with them.’ – K. R.

Pictures: N

IGE

L BO

VE

Y

Above: members of the International Staff Band play during the

carol service

Below: territorial leaders Commis sioners André and Silvia Cox

with John Bercow, the Speaker

In festive mood, Lieut-Colonel

Marion Drew (THQ) joins

carollers at Basildon for the

Santa In The Park event

SOUTHSEA: Through generous donations and the sale of goods, the corps raised £1,311 at the Christmas Fayre. Local businesses supported the event as a sign of appreciation for the Army’s community work. – T. S./T. M.

At Maesteg, YPSM Helene Forwood and ACS Wayne Forwood

present toys and £700 raised at a Christmas concert to corps

officers Captains Ann and John Pugh for donation to the West

Glamorgan Council for Drug and Alcohol Addiction

Concert brings Christmas blessingsCHESHAM

RESIDENTS filled the Elgiva Theatre for a carol concert compèred by Songs Of Praise presenter Pam Rhodes. The corps was joined by Hillingdon Band and Songsters and ffortissimo, a singing group who presented the ‘Hallelujah’ chorus. Everyone left feeling blessed with the thought of Christmas. – R. C.

STREET: Children from the parent-and-toddler group, rain-bows, brownies and the corps young people participated in the YP carol service. The newly formed timbrel group contrib-uted ‘Go Tell It On The Mountain’ and Father Christmas made an appearance. – D. O.

NEWS


Band weekend brings encouragementBROMLEY TEMPLE

GENERAL John Larsson (Retired) compèred the Saturday evening festival of band week-end. Guest soloist Jonathan Evans (euphonium, Hendon) contributed ‘The Song Of The Brother’, ‘Glorious Ventures’ and ‘In Christ Alone’. Vocal soloist Mark Norwood delighted the audience with ‘Spiritual’ and ‘I Surrender’ and corps pianist Tristan Lanceley played some of his own arrangements.

A highlight of the weekend was Kevin Larsson’s ‘Temple 125’, written for the band’s 125th anniversary.

Major Peter Forrest (IHQ) led Sunday meetings using themes from the band’s mission state-ment: To Glorify God and To Proclaim The Gospel. The weekend brought encourage-ment to many. – B. F.

Toy service receives generous supportSHERBURN HILL

CHURCHES Together in East Durham united for their annual carol service at the hall. The corps sections and church members participated and a toy service received generous support.

Corps officer Major Dawn Evans is pictured with Sunday school member Samuel Raine. – D. E.

Corps hosts hospice serviceHADLEIGH TEMPLE

THE corps hosted Light Up A Life carol service for Havens Hospices led by chaplain the Rev Jane Guest with participa-tion by the hospice staff and choir and the singing company.

Following the lighting of a candle by a staff member pictured with the Rev Guest, the congregation went outside the hall for the switching on of the Christmas tree lights and a benediction by the Rev Rick Williams. – B. N.

Hamilton Christmas Fayre raises more than £1,400 for the Army’s

community work; an evening by gospel choir SoundRoots raised

£768 for Hungry for Change

HALIFAX: Lieut-Colonel Gill Heeley (DHQ) led the toy service. The Deputy Mayor of Cal derdale (Councillor Christine Beal) and her consort received the toys to be distributed to needy families by corps officer Major Lois Robinson and volunteers. The service included songs by children from Christ Church School, Pellon, and a visit by Santa. – L. H.

NOTTINGHAM WILLIAM BOOTH MEMORIAL HALLS: Family and friends gathered for Shining Stars to celebrate the lives of loved ones they had lost. Major Joy Caddy (DHQ) led the event which concluded with a candle service and the placing of stars on a tree. – I. N.

NEWS


Songsters sing for joyLURGAN

MAJOR John Martin (London Central DHQ), vocalist Susanne Dymott (Staines) and harpists, siblings Jack and Katie Patience visited the corps for songster weekend.

The songsters opened with ‘God Of My Praise’ and Major Martin led them in ‘A Jubilant Song’ and ‘Words Of Life’. Susanne Dymott entertained and blessed the congregation with a varied repertoire.

Sunday meetings themed Sing The Song With Voices Of Praise included a united Scripture read-ing of Psalm 150. Major Martin urged the congregation to sing about Jesus with confidence, compassion and concern.

The afternoon meeting began with the songsters presenting ‘Sing For Joy’. Piano soloist Kenny Briggs contributed a thought-provoking arrange-ment of ‘Send The Fire’ and Lauren Stevenson participated in an interview-style testi - mony. The weekend concluded with the rousing ‘A Jubilant Song’.

Pictured are Songster Leader Karen Hunter, Major John Martin, Songster Sergeant Jenni Power, Susanne Dymott, corps officer Major Graham Wood and Deputy Songster Leader Fraser Ramsay.

CHELTENHAM CITADEL: During morning worship guest speaker Major Anne Read (THQ) spoke about modern-day slavery and the Army’s anti-trafficking response. – R. G.

SOUTHAMPTON SHOLING: Salvacosta presented a pro -gramme of sacred and secular music at the corps to fundraise for Alfie’s Trust, which supports the neonatal unit at Princess Anne Hospital. At the conclu-sion of the evening Alfie’s parents received a cheque for £1,000. – B. E.

Youth band takes centre stageBIRMINGHAM CITADEL

WEST Midlands Divisional Youth Band led Sunday meet-ings at the corps. Captain

Martyn Watson (DHQ) led the morning meeting and in the afternoon the youth band visited Birmingham Children’s Hospital. The evening meeting began with ‘Harlesden’ and included soloists Samuel Ellis (xylophone) and Charlie Green (vocal). – F. C.

Corps and band pray togetherHINCKLEY

FELIXSTOWE Band visited for the 131st corps anniversary. The Saturday evening festival included soloists John Pilborough (cornet), Peter Andrews (Eb bass) and Simon Scott (trombone).

On Sunday morning the corps and the band joined together in prayer. The Holy Spirit’s pres-ence was felt in the meeting that followed and people knelt at the mercy seat.

In the afternoon the band visited a hospital and residential home. The weekend concluded with a programme that included a cornet trio ‘Keep In Step’ by Mike Scott, Bram Skuse and Ben Winton, a trombone feature ‘I Will Follow Him’ and the host band joined with the visitors in ‘Down The Street’. – S. B.

CLYDEBANK: The band hosted a fundraising concert in aid of Erskine Hospital for injured and disabled servicemen and women. The event, with guests West of Scotland Fellowship Choir and compèred by Lieut-Colonel Robert McIntyre, raised £465. – C. M.

NEWS


Anniversary celebrated with inspiring worshipWOODFORD

COMMISSIONERS Alex and Ingeborg Hughes, supported by corps officer Major Andrew Gaudion, led the 126th corps anniversary. Following inspiring morning worship, the corps fellowship shared lunch together.

In the afternoon, the Salway Singers participated and Commissioner Alex Hughes brought the message. – K. S.

BOOTLE: Members of the Rotary Club of West Derby held a food collection and donated the items to the corps for distribution as food parcels. Some Rotarians assisted at the lunch club and Rotary Club President Christina Spencer read short stories and poems in the afternoon. – J. H.

TUNSTALL: The hall was filled for a festival arranged by Megan Caddy. St Margaret Ward School Jazz Orchestra and Choir and young musicians from the corps contributed to the programme, which raised £700 towards a com -munity project in Kenya. – M. H.

Members of the Harold Hill Alpha group meet for an away day

at Mulberry House, Ongar

Rose Churchman celebrates her 100th birthday with corps

members at Margate

NEWPORT CITADEL: As part of a global service week, staff from the Hilton Newport assisted with the corps homeless outreach programme by provid-ing food for homeless people in the city. They also helped voca-tional training staff at the Stepping Stones café. – G. B.

Retired Songster Leader

Doug Collin sells his last

papers in Dunstable

market; corps officer

Major Carol Evans presented

Doug with a certificate

of appreciation for

12 years’ service

Robbie fundraises for charityMIDDLESBROUGH PALLISTER PARK

ROBBIE Anderson (pictured with supporters) organised and partici-pated in a sponsored run for Cancer Research UK as part of his junior soldier gold award. He raised £222 for the charity. – A. A.

Chloé Panacci receives the Achiever of the Year award after

participating in the vocational training programme at Newport

Citadel, run in partnership with Rathbone Cymru; at the National

Assembly of Wales she was supported by corps officer Captain

Graham Barratt, representatives of the corps and the partnership

NEWS


CLOWNE: People of all ages enjoyed a wonderful evening when gospel illusionist Steve Price visited the corps as part of the 125th anniversary celebra-tions. Through illusions he pre -sented the message of God’s love and forgiveness for all. – M. N.

BOOTLE: Staff from Liverpool YMCA supported the corps Christmas Fayre by turning the charity shop into Santa’s grotto. A good number of people attended the event, which raised £620. – J. H.

The Mayor of Camborne

(Councillor Jean Charman),

supported by corps officer

Lieutenant Andy Toby and corps

members, launches the Army’s

Christmas Present Appeal

Musical tots celebrate first anniversaryGOVAN

MORE than 100 children and family members celebrated Musical Tots’ first birthday.

The group offers families the opportunity to bring their babies and toddlers to learn songs, rhymes, actions and music in a fun, friendly and supportive atmosphere. Two sessions are held each Friday morning.

There has been a large influx of families in the area and some neighbours met for the first time at the group, which is making a real difference to people’s lives. – W. G.

SOUTHAMPTON SHIRLEY: The band and vocalist Liz Cole went to Hythe United Reformed church for a pre-Advent visit. Despite torrential rain and flooding, they were greeted by an appreciative and responsive congregation. Corps officer Major Alan Hill compèred the programme. – J. W.

Blackburn charity shop window depicts live scenes of Christmas

including a young man being helped by The Salvation Army and

children visiting Father Christmas

At Cirencester Nicky Chatfield

and Lizzie Halliday sort gifts

received at the toy service

and from churches and

residents in the town

THE GENERAL’S CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

THE small boy was obviously lost. Standing in the shopping mall with crowds of people rushing by, he looked terribly anxious, glancing all

around for a familiar face. It was Christmas time and the worst time of year to be in the midst of a rushing crowd, disconnected from a family member. Yet, standing beside The Salvation Army’s Christmas kettle, I could see what he could not – an elderly man standing not far away with eyes fixed on the boy. I thought to myself that this was his grandfather. Sure enough, their eyes met and the older man ran to embrace the boy.

‘You thought you were lost, didn’t you? Well, I knew where you were all the time.’ No scolding of the boy for wandering off. No embarrassing lecture in front of strangers. No reprimand of any sort.

For so many people, Christmas time only accentuates their sense of lostness – of being alone in the crowd. The emphasis on family, happy memories, celebration and giving reminds them of their isolation and that life has not been like that for them. Perhaps that is why The Salvation Army has made

Christmas a major focus of its year. Perhaps that is why we arrange special meals in the community, Christmas assistance and the giving of toys. We want to replace the sense of loss or meet the urgent need and display the spirit of Christmas in the most practical ways.

Yet in spite of all we do, we cannot fix broken lives or heal the deep wounds of the heart. Sometimes we are surprised to discover that the people who feel most lost in this Christmas maze are not the economically strapped. Sometimes the hurting, broken, lonely and lost are actually the ones who appear to have it all together.

The Bible tells a story of such a man – Zacchaeus. He was actually very prosperous. However, his profession as a tax collector ostracised him. But Jesus, like the doting grandfather, saw where he was all the time and connected with him in a life-changing way. When criticised by the people because he was having a bite to eat with a ‘sinner’ such as Zacchaeus, Jesus declared emphatically that he had come into the world to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10).

Zacchaeus changed from the scheming deceiver that he was to a generous, responsible citizen. Why? Not because he was publicly shamed, reprimanded or made to feel like an outsider, but because Jesus was on the lookout for him. Jesus gave him a sense of dignity. Jesus knew he could be different.

It is so important that we don’t get carried away with nostalgia when it comes to the Christmas story. We can romanticise the scene of Jesus’ birth and miss the power of its message. God took on human flesh, moved into our neighbourhood and spent his life in search of those who needed to reconnect with their Maker.

Maybe some of us would never admit to being a lost soul, but we would admit

to a loss of our idealism, values, faith or hope. Maybe we would even venture to admit that we have lost much of our love for ourselves or others. It’s not something we declare to everyone. We may feel like the young boy, unnoticed by the crowd but frantically needing to be found.

Well, friends, Christmas is about the coming of the Saviour of the world – the loving Saviour – the one who searches out lost people, embraces them and gives them the best sense of belonging they could ever imagine.


A Christmas embraceby General Linda Bond

‘‘

CHRISTMAS IS ABOUT THE COMING OF THE SAVIOUR OF THE WORLD – THE LOVING SAVIOUR – THE ONE WHO SEARCHES OUT LOST PEOPLE ’’


PRELUDEDag Hammarskjöld (1905–1961) was the Swedish-born UN Secretary-General from 1953 to 1961. He was noted for his intellectual capacity and his quiet and dignified diplomacy in dealing with international affairs. He once said: ‘The longest journey a man makes is inward.’ As Christmas approaches, step back for a while from the frenzy we create around this holy Advent season…

As with madness we prepareFor this festive time of year;

As we rush and count the daysAdvent passes in a haze.

Anon

… and unhurriedly journey inward to ponder its deepest meaning.

Take time these Advent days to goA little way apart.

And with the hands of prayer prepareThe house that is your heart.

Joy Andrews (alt)PRAYER Almighty and everlasting God who orders all things in Heaven and on earth: we give you thanks and praise that you made all ages a preparation for the coming of your Son. Prepare us again for the coming of the One you send. Amen.

From Life and Worka Church of Scotland publication

PROMISEA promise is an assurance that something will be done whatever the

cost. The biblical narrative records that God promised hope and healing to the nation of Israel, and through Israel to the whole world. That promise would be fulfilled in Jesus, the Messiah, the anointed one. God gave his promise through people he could trust, one of whom was the prophet Isaiah. Here are some of the things he said.The Lord himself will give you a sign: the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14).

Isaiah amplified God’s promise in word pictures.

LIGHTThe people walking in darkness have seen a great light... a light has dawned. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and

A new direction – another way...Written and compiled by Commissioner Keith Banks, this meditation has been prepared for use in private prayer and devotion, but could also be used in an act of corporate worship. It should be followed through in an unhurried manner.

‘‘

THE BIBLICAL NARRATIVE RECORDS THAT GOD PROMISED HOPE AND HEALING TO... THE WHOLE WORLD ’’

A CHRISTMAS MEDITATION

peace there will be no end (Isaiah 9:2, 6 and 7).

LIFEA shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him – the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord (Isaiah 11:1 and 2).

LEVEL GROUNDEvery valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people will see it together (Isaiah 40:4 and 5).

The promise was made and the promise would be kept.

PATIENCEIsaiah gave God’s promise to the

people of God about seven hundred years or more before it would come true. This meant that those who first heard Isaiah deliver the promise did not see its fulfilment. The nation had to wait with patience from one generation

to the next. Hope deferred makes the heart sick wrote one of the contributors to the collection of wise sayings called Proverbs (13:12). Perhaps the writer understood that this applied not only to everyday real life experiences but also to the deep longing of his people for

the promise of the Messiah to be fulfilled.‘Wait’ is a frequently repeated word in Scripture. For example:Wait for the Lord (Psalm 27:14)Blessed are all who wait for him (Isaiah 30:18)Wait for the gift my Father promised (Acts 1:4)We wait for the blessed hope – the appearing of the glory of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ (Titus 2:13)Patience – waiting – seems precious to God. He always rewards it.He has made everything beautiful in its time (Ecclesiastes 3:11)Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart (Psalm 37:4)Think leisurely about the desires of your heart as you wait patiently before the Lord in prayer.

PREPARATIONFrom the earliest of days, Isaiah was rallying the people to make preparation for the fulfilment of the promise, the coming of the Messiah.

A voice of one calling: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord;


‘‘

THOSE WHO FIRST HEARD ISAIAH DELIVER THE PROMISE DID NOT SEE ITS FULFILMENT. THE NATION HAD TO WAIT WITH PATIENCE FROM ONE GENERATION TO THE NEXT ’’

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14


make straight in the desert a highway for our God’ (Isaiah 40:3).Centuries later John the Baptist repeated the call to the generation that would see the promise actualise, made flesh in the person of Jesus. Prepare… make straight (Matthew 3:3 – also see Mark 1:3, Luke 3:4 and John 1:23).

John’s call to the people was to repent. He declared: Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven has come near (Matthew 3:2). To repent is to change direction, to think and live differently. Put simply, he called them to get things straight. There is no better way of preparing for the Messiah than that.

We can help ourselves prepare for Christmas by putting things straight. This might involve resolving a misunderstanding; repairing a broken relationship; renewing a broken promise; recognising our need for forgiveness; realigning our spiritual compass; recommitting ourselves to Christ. To do these things is to repent because repentance is about change and putting things straight.

Knowing my failings, knowing my fears,Seeing my sorrow, drying my tears,

Jesus recall me, me re-ordain.You know I love you, use me again.

John Gowans

PILGRIMAGEEvery believer must make a pilgrimage in imagination and spirit to the stable,

shed or cave – call it what you will. We must come to where he is and find the place where we can kneel in worship and adoration beside the shepherds and the kings.

To comprehend who couldA God so large, so vast

Until he sent at lastHis love, his hope, his joy

Contained in one small boy:And then we understood.

Margaret Reynolds

The environment of the stable is not glamorous but it is glorious. Kneeling in worship leads to the beginning of understanding. Only when we kneel in worship and adoration can we begin to understand what we have been waiting and preparing for. Here is God made flesh.

He came to earthBy natural birth,

With pain and tears,With anxious fears.

A cattle shed,A make-shift bed.

A straw-strewn floor;So mean, so poor.

Yet here is seenA sacred gleam

Of peace and joyIn one small boy.

For God is here,And Heaven is near.

And love is bornThis Christmas morn.

Keith Banks

To kneel and worship the Christ-child is to find a reason for the journey. Those who worship in spirit and in truth will continue their pilgrimage by another way. They returned to their country by another route (Matthew 2:12).

Now my friends I have a messageTo deliver, if I may;

It’s to say the Christ of ChristmasIs our hope for every day.

Take this baby and his messageTo your heart without delay;

And you’ll find a new direction –You’ll go home another way.

Keith Banks

This is the way; walk in it (Isaiah 30:21)

Gracious God, in this Advent time give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness, and put on the armour of light. Let the light of the One who was and is to come, pierce our darkness and illumine our way, so that at the end we may rise to life eternal. Amen.

From Life and Worka Church of Scotland publication

A CHRISTMAS MEDITATION

COMMISSIONER BANKS LIVES IN RETIREMENT IN SCOTLAND

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

‘‘

ONLY WHEN WE KNEEL IN WORSHIP AND ADORATION CAN WE BEGIN TO UNDERSTAND WHAT WE HAVE BEEN WAITING AND PREPARING FOR ’’


IN the gospel narratives, particular signs and wonders contributed to the unfolding of the greatest story ever told. Initially, there was the angel Gabriel who appeared to Mary and proclaimed that she would

conceive and give birth to a son (see Luke 1:26–38). Then an angel appeared to Joseph and instructed him regarding the significance of his fiancée’s pregnancy (Matthew 1:18–25). In fact, angels played a predominant part in the unfolding of the birth narrative.

The sign of greatest significance within the context of the culture in which I serve is light.

When an angel appeared to the shepherds (Luke 2:8–20) the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. Shepherds were used to being out in the dark fields; their only source of light was the fire they had lit for the protection of their flock. To suddenly be surrounded by this bright light would certainly have captured their attention and probably terrified them. The angel told them of the Messiah’s birth, and was then joined by a vast host of others praising God: ‘Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased’ (Luke 2:14 all quotations from New Living Translation).

Like Western cities, the streets and shopping centres of Singapore are filled with lights announcing the coming of Christmas. Lights are a significant symbol of faith in Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar. We live and minister in a multi-faith context, and in the months leading up to Christmas lights are used as symbols in a variety of festivals. For example, one faith uses lights as a sign of ‘welcoming our God’.

Is that not what lies at the heart of the angels’ appearance to the shepherds?

JESUS IS THE LIGHTIn the ancient world, the spiritual use of light was common. At the Feast of Tabernacles, huge candelabra were lit in the Temple at night to remind the people of the pillar of fire that had guided Israel in their wilderness journey, so it is not out of context for John to open his message with a clear statement of who Jesus is (John 1:1–5). Jesus himself is the light, and his life brings light to everyone. His light shines in the darkness and it cannot be extinguished. It is therefore up to each individual as to whether they accept this gift of light and life that Jesus offers, or continue to live in darkness.

The trimmings of Christmas are temporary, but the light of Jesus in our lives is everlasting. Therefore we need to make the message of Christmas count, in whatever way we can. We need to help others discover the truth of Christ’s salvation that they also may echo Paul’s words: ‘Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!’ (2 Corinthians 9:15).

For Salvationists in Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar, Christmas is not a time to draw attention to seasonal trimmings and lights. It is about being the light themselves. Christmas is a time

to make a determined effort to get the message out, without causing offence within the multi-faith context of our countries.

In Myanmar, crusades and gospel-sharing are key features of December. On Christmas Eve Salvationists are invited into the homes and workplaces of non-Christian family members and friends to sing carols, which continue until daybreak. This is a way in which Salvationists can be a blessing to others.

In Singapore and Malaysia, the period of Advent is also seen as a time of outreach – a time to bring non-Christian families and friends, including those from our community and social programmes, to different functions and events, culminating in the church family sitting down with them for a meal on Christmas Day.

It’s not about being with immediate family. Christmas is about being relational and a blessing to others.

FOR REFLECTION What can you do to be a blessing to

others this Christmas?How can you be the light of Christ?

Jesus, the Light of the worldColonel Gillian Downer presents the last in this series of studies for Advent written by UK officers serving overseas

‘‘

THE TRIMMINGS OF CHRISTMAS ARE TEMPORARY, BUT THE LIGHT OF JESUS IN OUR LIVES IS EVERLASTING ’’

COLONEL DOWNER IS TERRITORIAL COMMANDER, SINGAPORE,

MALAYSIA AND MYANMAR

BIBLE STUDY

LETTERS


MUSIC ENHANCES OUR WALK WITH GOD

MUSICIANS are God’s gift to be used in worship as is mentioned in the Bible. The Salvation Army has been blessed with wonderful musicians able sensitively to enhance meetings.

In recent days it has been my privilege to listen to music on a CD entitled From The Heart. This confirms for me how reflective music can help our daily thinking and our prayers, especially if used alongside Scripture passages and daily readings, from Words Of Life for example.

For those prepared to listen and appreciate, From The Heart, the music of Kenneth Downie, can help give a glimpse of God and make a difference to your life.

Donald Bibey,Okehampton

THANK YOU FOR REMEMBERING USAS we come to the end of our appointment in Pakistan, which has proved very challenging and yet allowed many opportunities for witness and ministry, we are praying that the investment in the lives of the cadets whom we have had the privilege to influence will reap many rewards in future days.

We have never doubted that the prayers of many have been the reason that we have been protected and safeguarded during this time and we

have been greatly encouraged by the financial support that has benefited the training college in many ways. We have been the grateful recipients of helping-hand scheme money from several divisions and also corps and personal donations, including one special couple who asked that their friends give money to the college rather than buy presents for their wedding anniversary.

A special encouragement has been the receipt of Christmas cards and greetings from the United Kingdom Territory and this is due in no small part to the publication of our address in Salvationist just in time for Christmas. When the mail arrives with lots of cards we have a sense of not being forgotten and especially enjoy the handmade items from Sunday schools and junior clubs.

So we write to express our gratitude for your thoughtfulness and care. It would be impossible to reply individually to each message and so we trust that a message to all will be acceptable. Please continue to send greetings to the reinforcement officers serving abroad as this is truly a ministry of encouragement.

Colin and Rosemary Cowdery,Majors,Pakistan

INSPIRATIONAL DAILY READINGSI FIND great inspiration from using the Words Of Life daily readings in my own devotions and so distribute copies to nine other people.

Sometimes the most unexpected passages of Scripture bring reassurance, which was the case this morning when the reading was from the book of the prophet Haggai, who was urging God’s people to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. Having spent most of my 40 years of officership in developing buildings for corps and social services, I have often pondered in my retirement if I would have been more use to the Kingdom of God if the Army had appointed me to more frontline work.

Whenever I study a book of the Bible that is not too familiar to me, I often read the introduction provided by Eugene Peterson in The Message. Here is an

extract from that introduction: ‘It is not uncommon for us to be dismissive of the buildings themselves by saying, “A place of worship is not a building; it’s the people”… “The God who made the universe doesn’t live in custom-made shrines.” Compared with the great prophets who preached repentance and salvation, Haggai’s message doesn’t sound very spiritual. But in God’s economy it is perhaps unwise to rank our assigned work as either more or less spiritual. We are not angels; we inhabit space. Materials – bricks and mortar, boards and nails – keep us grounded and connected with the ordinary world in which we necessarily live out our extraordinary beliefs. Haggai keeps us in touch with those times in our lives when repairing the building where we worship is an act of obedience every bit as important as praying in that place of worship.’

It is at times like this I marvel that passages of Scripture written thousands of years ago can speak to our hearts in the 21st century. I also thank God for people like Major Beverly Ivany, writer of Words Of Life, and Eugene Peterson who devote themselves to helping us understand the Scriptures and see their application to our own lives.

Ray Oakley,Lieut-Colonel,Leamington Spa

ON-HOLD MUSIC WAS A SURPRISEIN contact with SAGIC by phone, I was placed on hold for a while. Imagine my surprise at the music I had to listen to while I was waiting. Not an inspiring Salvation Army brass band or something soothing and relaxing from songsters. Instead, very loud rock music that included the words ‘need some loving’!

I know The Salvation Army is a loving church, but I really think that SAGIC should have something more appropriate to their business and customers.

Stuart Gay,Divisional Envoy,Blackpool

LETTERS


JUST WHERE HE NEEDS US

RECENTLY Felicity and Mark Brown (pictured below), who are soon to be enrolled as soldiers at Kirkcaldy Corps, were travelling on the A9 when they came across an accident. A car had smashed into the back of a lorry. As volunteers with St Andrew’s Ambulance Association they stopped and did their best to save the critically injured female driver. It became apparent that her injuries were so severe that she would not survive.

Felicity was aware that extensive research has shown that hearing is the last of the senses to fade so she sat and prayed with her. She spoke God into her last moments.

They then prayed with a bystander who was, understandably, distressed after witnessing a fatal accident.

In their car they had some food, which they shared with the shaken lorry driver and the hard-working fire crews.

Felicity and Mark were selected to receive a special commendation at the Scottish First Aid Awards where they were seated with the Chairman of Council for St Andrew’s Ambulance Association, Mr Rudy Crawford.

After they received their award, Mr Crawford disclosed to them that Fiona, the casualty, was a close family friend of his. Their efforts to save her and the knowledge of their prayers in her final moments had brought great comfort to her family.

This is just one example of God placing us where we are most needed.

David Arnott,Major,Leven

FUNDING OR FUNDRAISING – A DILEMMA

I ALWAYS find it amazing how often people thank me for taking their money when I’m collecting on behalf of The Salvation Army. In response to Lieut-Colonel Marion Drew’s letter (Salvationist 1 December), I would like to ask: ‘When inquiring into the public’s attitude and expectations of us do we ask how they perceive that all the money they give us is used?’

I would guess that most of the people who donate in this way think their money will be used to care for those less fortunate than themselves. They recognise the brilliant work the Army is so well known for, especially in caring for homeless people and have such a trust in our work.

However, I am dismayed to say that here in Bradford we have a Lifehouse that has stood empty for months because funding has been withdrawn by the council. Yet, there are many still living rough in our city. Our local evening paper has carried many articles recently on the desperate situation of homeless people. Only this week there was another article concerning homeless families in Bradford living in bed and breakfast situations.

We have got ourselves into this quandary by going to local councils for funding. They can then dictate to us what we are allowed to do and say, and then when times become hard they have simply withdrawn funding.

William Booth didn’t say let’s see what funding is available; he simply told Bramwell to ‘do something’. Is it not possible to open this building and use it as a temporary night stop during the harshest months of the year, until a long-term decision is made about its future?

Finally, if we have to go to other groups for help in funding, have we considered asking for the help of Churches Together and other Christian organisations specifically to help in funding our

long-term work with those in desperate situations?

Tony Goodwin,Major,Bradford

Secretary for Communications Lieut-Colonel Marion Drew replies:

Major Goodwin makes a valid point about not taking government money all the time and doing our own thing. While this may seem easy to do, in reality it is not, and could jeopardise those we wish to help by removing them from access to local authority support in the long-term. So it is not always as easy to implement as people may think.

However, one goal of our social services is to take back occupancy of some beds in residential centres, so there is jurisdiction over their use and the way in which the occupant is supported. Another goal is to continue looking at opportunities for doing a new thing without Government money. Both goals constitute a long and costly process.

The Salvation Army is presently doing an options appraisal for Bradford Lawley Lifehouse to see if there is an alternative, suitable use for the building. It has to be noted that more and more work is being done with homeless people by corps community services. It is not always the answer to accommodate homeless people in a residential setting, although there are always going to be some whose needs will be best met that way. All options are under discussion and consideration.

Thank you for your letter and your support in fundraising.

Readers sending letters by email should include their name, full rank if applicable and full postal address

Not all letters can be printed Please remember, letters for

publication in Salvationist should be carefully thought 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 or email [email protected]

NEW COMMITMENTS


8.

2.

1.

6.7.

9.


1. RYAN BAGNALL Soldier CANNOCKCORPS officer Major Nigel Govier enrolled Ryan as a soldier. Ryan has attended the Army all his life and was a junior soldier at the corps. – N. G.

2. RENA GRANT Adherent member KINLOCHLEVENWHEN Rena moved to the area she found it hard to make friends. She met two Salvationists at a bus stop, but was too shy to accept their invitation to a meeting. She did however go to the charity shop, where she met corps leader Territorial Envoy Janet McIntyre. Having received the encouragement she needed, she visited the corps and found the sermon so uplifting, she knew she had to go back. She testified: ‘I have never known friends like you before. Since attending the Army, I feel closer to God. I know he has work for me to do.’

Rena now takes part in Sunday meetings, the home league, friendship club, exercise class, community choir and is learning to play an instrument in the new corps band. She was welcomed as an adherent member by the envoy and is pictured with corps comrades and friends who gathered to support her. – J. M.

3. LISA HORRELL Adherent member GRIMSBYA WARM welcome was waiting for Lisa when she attended the Army for the first time, after the corps paper seller had invited her to meetings. Lisa testified to wanting to be part of a church that makes people feel welcome. Corps officer Captain Jayne Nicoll welcomed Lisa as an adherent member. – G. N.

4. NAOMI SYMONS Junior soldier GREAT YARMOUTHFAMILY and friends supported Naomi in her decision to become a junior soldier. In her testimony she shared how she enjoyed classes using the new Activate material. Proud parents corps officers Lieutenants Rob and Georgina Symons and the corps shared in the prayer that Naomi is the first of many wanting to make this commitment. Major Michelle Woodhouse (DHQ) enrolled Naomi as a junior soldier. – R. S.

5. HANNAH EDMONDS Soldier WINCHESTERHANNAH enjoys helping at the parent-and-toddler group and wanted to be a soldier because she loves Jesus and wants to witness for him. She sang ‘Jesus Loves Me! This I Know’ in front of a large congregation of family and friends and was enrolled by corps officer Major Teresa Harris. – T. H.

6. CHIYO SHERWOOD Soldier BLACKPOOL CITADELCHIYO was enrolled by corps officer Major Ian Harris. As her testimony she sang ‘I Am Willing, Lord’. She is pictured with Majors Ian and Jean Harris. – S. W.

7. KATHRYN YATES Soldier BLACKBURNFRIENDS, family and corps members gathered to witness the enrolment of Kathryn as a soldier by Captain Mike Warner (THQ). She has attended the corps all her life and wanted to make a further commitment to God. In her testimony, Kathryn spoke of the people who had a positive influence in her life, but credited the most to Jesus; her prayer is to keep him at the centre of everything she does. – V. Y.

8. MATTHEW WADE HANCOCK Junior soldier SCARBOROUGHMATTHEW attended the corps through the parent-and-toddler group and looks forward to serving Jesus through the YP sections. In the presence of family and friends he was enrolled by corps officer Major Paul Robinson. – J. M.

9. THOMAS WOOD, FINN SMYTH, MORGAN ROBSON Junior soldiers SUNDERLAND MILLFIELDCORPS officer Major Stephen Naylor enrolled three new junior soldiers. After reciting the junior soldier’s promise, they each knelt to sign their pledge at the mercy seat. – E. F.

3.

4.

NEW COMMITMENTS IN DECEMBER

24 Soldiers

20 Adherent members

19 Junior soldiers

TOTALS FOR

THIS YEAR

Soldiers: 349

Adherent members: 485

Junior soldiers: 2735.

Bandsman Ronald Littler, Tom Littler of his brother, both Failsworth

Billy and Isa Stanger of their son James (Jim), Andrew Stanger, Marnie Burns, Ishbel Fraser and Morag Walker of their brother, all Kirkwall

Yvonne Hunt, Swindon Citadel, of her brother

RETIRED OFFICERSBirthday congratulations:

Lieut-Colonel Dorothea Havercroft (80 on 31 December)

Major Cyril Bartlett (95 on 1 January)Lieut-Colonel Leslie Mingay (80 on 2 January)

Mrs Lieut-Colonel June Jardine (80 on 2 January)

ON THE AIRBBC Radio Kent (96.7 and 104.2 FM): Major Alec Still (Chatham) will present Thought Of The Day (7.50 am) on Sunday 23 December.

ARMY PEOPLEAPPOINTEDEffective 20 December:

Captain Ann Courdelle, Chaplain, Smallcombe House Care Home, Bath

Effective 1 February 2013:Lieut-Colonel Melvin Fincham, Assistant Secretary for Programme, Programme Service, THQ

Lieut-Colonel Suzanne Fincham, Divisional Commander and Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries, London Central

Effective 14 March:Major Elwyn Harries, DC, IrelandMajor Carole Harries, DDWM, IrelandMajor Alan Watters, DC, Central NorthMajor Linda Watters, DDWM and Divisional Director for Personnel (Officers), Central North

Effective 6 June:Major Melvyn Jones, Spiritual Life Development Secretary, Programme Service, THQ

Major Kathleen Jones, Assistant Spiritual Life Development Secretary, Programme Service, THQ

MARRIAGESRichard Winborn to Kaye Jones at Cradley Heath by Captain Liz Hancock

Bandsman Alexander Campbell to Ruth Hendy at Hadleigh Temple by Major Ray Irving

Songster Peter Watts (Kettering) to Songster Dorothy Attiwell at Boscombe by Lieut-Colonel Geoff Blurton

DEDICATED TO GODPhilippa, daughter of Richard and Josie Hall, at Cradley Heath by Captain Liz Hancock

Maisy Faith, daughter of Jeremy and Michelle Ling, at Stowmarket by Major Diane Henderson

Carson, son of Ricky Bees and Chelsea Barrett, Lillianna Mary, daughter of Andrew and Melanie Bailey, both at Williamstown by Major David Wise

BEREAVEDSharon Worsey, Cradley Heath, of her mother Jean

Sheila Allen, Staines, of her brother David Juett

CS Elizabeth Cowie, Findochty, of her brother Alexander Hay

Dorothy Littler of her husband

ANNOUNCEMENTS


ENGAGEMENTSGENERAL LINDA BOND: India Western, Wed 2 Jan 2013 - Sat 6 India Central, Mon 7 - Fri 11

THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF (COMMISSIONER BARRY SWANSON)AND COMMISSIONER SUE SWANSON: ICO, Th 10 Jan 2013

THE TERRITORIAL COMMANDER (COMMISSIONER ANDRÉ COX)AND COMMISSIONER SILVIA COX: Croydon Citadel (South London Retired Officers Fellowship),

Fri 4 Jan 2013 William Booth College (spiritual day), Wed 9 ICO, Th 10

TRIBUTESMAJOR ELLEN EVANSBORN at Blaencwm in the Rhondda, South Wales in 1926, Ellen Evans was the youngest of nine children. Her brother Emrys died at

the age of four, after which Ellen was referred to as the ‘youngest of eight’. She grew up in a very strict Nonconformist family, attending chapel three times on Sunday.

Ellen’s eldest brother Will introduced her to The Salvation Army when she was very young. She subsequently became a junior soldier and an active corps member at Treherbert – even-tually joining the 1949 Standard Bearers Session at the training college.

Having dedicated her life to the service of God, she served at numerous corps at many locations throughout the UK from 1950 to 1971, followed by transfer to British Red Shield Services centres at Devonport,

Catterick and Cambria House. Divisional responsibilities in East Midlands and Notting-ham preceded various NHQ appointments from 1979 to 1986.

One of the major’s favourite songs – ‘Rhondda Boy’ by David Alexander – contains the words, ‘Come home, come home, to where you belong, back to the Rhondda, your land of song’. This she did in retirement, worshipping at Pentre where she became over-60 club secretary.

The major spent the last days of her life being well looked after in Ty Porth Nursing Home, from where she was promoted to Glory. – R. R.

MRS DOREEN BAKER, ST MARY CRAYBORN in 1934, Doreen’s lifelong asso-ciation with the corps where she was No 1 – gave her perspectives

that encouraged hope. Corps officers trusted her counsel.

Undaunted by losing a leg in childhood, Doreen engaged in a variety of ministries which in earlier years included pub-booming and, later, through phone calls and birthday cards to corps members. She also enjoyed singing, always to the glory of God.

Virtually all Doreen’s working life was as a secretary on National and Territorial Head-quarters, making her a fount of knowledge on Salvation Army history and personalities. Colleagues loved her cheerful spirit.

Her husband Jack died in 1998. Though not a parent herself, she became ‘Auntie Doreen’ to several grateful families, and is greatly missed by many. – P. P.

DESMOND EDWARDS, HINCKLEYBORN in 1929 in Nuneaton, Desmond lived there until enter-ing the 1951 Interces-sors Session with his

wife Celia. They served at corps appointments in Co Durham, Stamford, Leeds New


Wortley and Otley until Desmond’s ill-health forced him to return to Hinckley. He then served for more than 47 years in local officer roles, including deputy bandmaster, bandmaster, YP band leader, band sergeant and, latterly, as songster leader.

Des never lost the desire to share the gospel. He enjoyed leading meetings, preach-ing and sharing with people pastorally.

In his final years Des suffered from dementia but continued to attend prayer meetings – an ‘Intercessor’ to the end. He was a faithful servant of Christ. – L. H.

MRS ANNA McALLISTER, PARKHEADANNA was born in Glasgow, but spent much of her child-hood in Dundee. She met her late husband

Willie when she worked in the shipyard in Glasgow as a welder during the war.

After her marriage, Anna became a Salva-tionist and soldiered at Bridgeton with her family. They transferred to Whiteinch and later ran a bus to take children to the corps. Willie was YP band leader and Anna often welded the instruments!

The couple transferred to Parkhead, where they helped sell The War Cry. In retirement Anna led over-60 clubs and home leagues in the division.

A much-loved grandmother and great-grandmother, Anna leaves two daughters, Margaret and Annabelle. – A. D.

MRS PAM RUMBALL, HILLINGDONBORN in 1950, Pam spent her childhood in the Portobello Road area of London. Taken to the Army at

Notting Hill by her aunt, she progressed through the YP corps into senior soldiership.

Pam met her husband Phil at the corps, and worked with drug addicts and alcoholics in the area. They later moved to Uxbridge, where Pam was YPSM, and 15 years ago to Hillingdon, where she was a songster and children’s advocate. Her love for the Lord was evident in her testimony, which inspired and blessed many at the Army and at the dental surgery where she worked.

Pam finally lost her two-year battle with cancer. She leaves her husband, daughters and five grandchildren. – J. K.

RETIRED HOME LEAGUE SECRETARY MRS MILDRED DICKINSON, ROCK FERRYBORN into a Christian family, Mildred served

in the corps all her life. The home league secretary for 40 years, Mildred was a faithful visitor to all her members. She also held the positions of sunbeam leader, YP record sergeant and songster sergeant. ‘Auntie Mil’ was always smiling and welcomed all who came into the hall.

Mildred especially loved her children – Carol, Meryl, John and Robin – and their respective families. Her husband Jack was promoted to Glory in 2006.

Despite poor health, Mildred continued to attend meetings, the home league and song-ster practice until shortly before her promo-tion to Glory. Many people travelled hundreds of miles to pay tribute to this much-loved servant of God. – J. L.

RON GAUDION, L’ISLETRON was born and raised in Guernsey in a Salvationist family. At the age of 18 he joined the Royal Navy. During the Second World War

he was involved with the evacuation of British Forces from Dunkirk and on secret operations engaged with the Normandy landings. On 9 May 1945 – while serving on HMS Bulldog – he witnessed the signing of the Liberation papers for Guernsey.

Ron immediately returned to L’Islet, where The Salvation Army enjoyed its freedom once again, and resumed his place in the band.

A lifelong Salvationist, Ron served the Lord, kept the faith and used his gift of music to share the gospel and express his love for Jesus. – J. H.

MRS DOROTHY READ, CHATHAMBORN in Southamp-ton in 1909, Dorothy met her husband Chris through employment with the naval and

military establishment. They moved to Chatham in 1930 with their three children. The family later increased by four more children.

A very caring wife, mother and grand-

mother, Dorothy will forever be loved and remembered. Her husband died in 1971 and her daughter Doreen in 1999.

Dorothy enjoyed her involvement with the home league for many years. Poor health prevented attendance at meetings during the last few years, but she kept up her interest in corps news through family and visitors. She loved the Lord and the Army, always putting others before herself.

Promoted to Glory aged 103, Dorothy was No 1 on the roll. – C. R.

SONGSTER RESERVIST MRS FLORA BISHOP, PAISLEY CITADELBORN in Paisley in 1923, Flo served as a singing company mem -ber and songster at

Paisley Citadel before meeting her late husband Barney – then serving in the Royal Marines – in 1941. Following marriage in 1943 they soldiered at Plymouth Shaftesbury Hall until returning to Paisley in 1953.

Flo’s fine contralto voice was used to good effect in the songsters, divisional chorus and vocal quartets. Her careful preparation and influence as primary sergeant and home league secretary are also fondly remembered.

For the last five years she enjoyed the fellow-ship within a Christian independent living complex in Skelmorlie and was delighted to attend Sunday meetings.

Flo enriched the lives of her family and many friends. – J. B.

DAVID WALKER, STAPLE HILLDAVID was born in 1932. Although a life-threatening illness in 1959 left him with impaired vision and epilepsy, he was a perfec-

tionist in his work as a metallurgist at Rolls-Royce in Bristol.

David found Christ in 1976 when a work colleague of his wife, Mavis, invited him to a meeting. He became a company guard and welcome sergeant and gave unstinting service in the community care ministries group.

A stroke led to a long period of hospitalisa-tion and nursing home care. A few days before his promotion to Glory he had the joy of hold-ing his first granddaughter.

David is remembered for his wonderful Christian experience and for faithfully serving the Lord to the maximum of his ability. – V. W.

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