Salvationist 21 March 2026 by The Salvation Army UK and Ireland

SALVATIONIST

Back to the future

SALVATIONIST being 40 years old is not an insignificant period of time to celebrate, and not least during this period of Lent. Although we will naturally reflect a little on what has passed, it is much more our intention to look forward, acknowledging the journey that we are on. It all began with The Local Officer magazine in 1897. In 1909 this merged with The Bandsman & Songster weekly, which had been published since 1907. The Bandsman, Songster & Local Officer then became The Musician in 1938, which, in turn, became Salvationist on 15 March 1986. And so, we celebrate 40 years. In Scripture, 40 days or 40 years were significant in that they represented a time of preparation for what was to come. Jesus in the desert, the Israelites in the wilderness, Moses, Elijah and more were all about getting ready for what God had planned. Just as God’s people were taken on a journey of self-discovery and reliance on God, so we as a publication have been on a journey, being continuously moulded into a publication that connects God’s salvation people with one another and now, also through digital media, reaches out to all who would seek to journey with us to a deeper knowledge of God. Happy birthday!

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EDITOR Major Julian Watchorn

MANAGING EDITOR Ivan Radford

ASSISTANT EDITOR Stevie Hope

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Major Margaret Bovey, Major Lynne Shaw, George Tanton, Lyn Woods

SENIOR DESIGNER Hannah Holden

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Joseph Halliday, Louise Phillips

PROOFREADER Chris Horne

salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

Catherine

INTERNATIONAL LEADERS

General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

TERRITORIAL LEADERS

Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Major Julian Watchorn

TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS

1 Champion Park, London SE5 8FJ 0845 634 0101

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DISTRIBUTION AND SUBSCRIPTIONS

Salvationist Publishing and Supplies (Periodicals), 66–78 Denington Road, Wellingborough NN8 2QH 01933 445445 / subscriptions@satcol.org © The Salvation Army United Kingdom and Ireland Territory. ISSN 2516-5909. The Salvation Army is a Christian church and registered charity. The charity number in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is 214779, in Scotland is SC009359 and in the Republic of Ireland is CHY6399.

SCRIPTURE

MORNING PRAISE WITH KIDS ALIVE!

FOUNDERS

and William Booth

Praying for peace

As conflict continues in Iran and the Middle East, we pray for peace in the world and in our hearts

EXPLOSIONS have continued across the Middle East in the past week, after US-Israeli strikes against Iran have prompted retaliatory strikes from the Islamic regime against its neighbours in the Gulf. It is reported that more than 1,000 Iranian civilians have died so far, as the conflict tragically claims the lives of innocent victims.

Closer to home, the possibility of rising oil, energy and petrol costs will also be a concern for many, adding to a broader fear and worry about the escalating conflict. Amid uncertainty, grief, pain and anxiety, it can be hard to know how to respond. It is a challenging time to hold on to the hope we have – a hope that is rooted in Jesus and in his enduring presence, in the truth that the overarching story of God reconciling all of creation to himself is not yet ended.

Psalm 46:1 reassures us: ‘God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.’ The psalm continues: ‘He makes wars cease to the ends of the Earth’ (v9).

If you or people in your community know someone impacted by the conflict, or if you are moved by the destruction and loss seen in daily headlines, you can

lift up in prayer all those impacted by the war. As you pray for peace in Iran and elsewhere, we also recognise that it is not separate from our own responsibility to seek and build peace –to say sorry to God for the times when we have stood in the way of peace, and to ask God for inner transformation into peacemakers where we are. Because true peace is ultimately found not in conflict simply ceasing, but in Jesus. It is about creating space in our hearts to cry out for peace – a peace not brought about through violence or threats, but through reconciling with God and his creation in friendship, love and grace.

God of all comfort, we pray for places around the world where war is a daily reality. Draw near to all who mourn lost loved ones, and strengthen all who work for peace.

Jesus Christ, friend and companion, we pray for all who have had to flee their homes because of conflict, and who find themselves adrift in a land that isn’t home. We dream of a safer, kinder world, where every displaced person will find refuge, and where communities destroyed by war will thrive again.

Holy Spirit, breath of life, we lament the way in which war damages this

Reflect and respond

Pray for the people of Iran and other countries impacted by the conflict.

Pray for decision-makers in power that they might have mercy, compassion and wisdom.

Download resources to help with praying for peace at tsa.link/ prayingforpeace

beautiful Earth you have created, ravaging landscapes, destroying ecosystems and preventing crops from flourishing. Brood over the chaos again, we pray: bring order and balance, and birth new life in barren places.

Father, Son and Holy Spirit, we long for an end to strife. Teach us to pray for peace, to work for peace, to live in peace. We look forward to that day you have promised, when you will cause wars to cease to the ends of the Earth. Lord, in your mercy, heal and restore.

• Based on the Praying for Peace resource available at tsa.link/ prayingforpeace

seconds with...

Chris Horne Publishing Department

Who are you and what do you do?

I’m Chris and I have been Salvationist’s proofreader for more years than I care to admit!

Why do you do what you do?

To try and ensure Salvationist is as grammatically and factually accurate as possible.

How did you first get involved in The Salvation Army?

My parents were Salvationists, so I grew up in the Army.

Which book – apart from the Bible –would you want on a desert island?

A Bear Grylls or Ray Mears survival guide.

What’s your most-played song at the moment?

‘Runaway’ by Del Shannon.

What’s the most-used app on your phone? WhatsApp.

What was the last website you visited? Google Street View.

If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be? Time.

Which country would you like to visit and why?

Mongolia, for the remoteness.

‘I have so many examples of doors being opened’

Rodney Kingston (Staines) shows how a leap of faith led him to rely more deeply on God

IN September 2024, I took the step to give up employment and become selfemployed as an artist. It was not an easy decision – I really enjoyed my job as graphic designer at The Salvation Army – but, through prayer and a huge leap of faith that God would open doors for me, it has been a dream come true.

Becoming a full-time professional artist had been a distant dream. In reality, I never felt it would happen. Then, one day in March 2024, I received a moment of clarity when I knew deep down in my heart that I needed to go all in. It was unexpected and felt simultaneously terrifying and exciting. I believe that turning point in my thinking came from God.

During the months spent considering the career change, I felt God speak to me as Father God. It was the first time I’d fully experienced that particular aspect of his character, and he showed that to me through gentle encouragement and nurturing.

It hasn’t been an easy transition to go from the security of employment to the financial vulnerability of being selfemployed. I’ve had to trust in God’s provision, especially in the first six months. There were occasions when I didn’t think I was going to earn the target I’d set myself. But then some work would

come in or a painting would be sold! I have so many examples of doors being opened.

I’m now 18 months into being a full-time artist, and that trust in following God’s leading has resulted in many opportunities I could not have imagined – not least a trip to Liverpool and an unforgettable experience painting a moment in footballing history. The opportunity to pursue a body of work on the theme of matchday paintings in oils has only been possible because painting is my full-time occupation and it is a direct result of a faith-based act.

It almost feels like a cliché to reference this particular Bible verse, but it perfectly fits my recently lived experience. It is also a verse that I once included when I was commissioned to create an image of Staines Salvation Army hall for departing officers a number of years ago, so it seems appropriate to leave you with it: ‘“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”’ (Jeremiah 29:11).

Have you got a testimony to share?

We’d love to hear your faith story! Get in touch at salvationist @salvationarmy.org.uk.

Swindon Gorse Hill Learning and growing together

Equipping each other I’ve been leading the corps since July 2020. We decided to start our Community Support Hub to better equip people for life in general with a holistic approach, looking at all areas of their life with a view to breaking the cycle and putting them in a position where they are then able to help others.

I’m immensely proud of our congregation. They are a family who have genuine care for each other. They meet and do things outside the corps and always ask what they can pray for. We also have our Community Centre Manager Hayley Purnell and an amazing group of volunteers – we couldn’t do a lot of what we do without the staff and volunteers who support us!

We have our own church-attached charity shop, which is another gateway to the community. It has an amazing management team and group of volunteers and is a valuable resource for the community and for us.

We also started Social Butterflies and Crafty Chat groups. The idea was to reduce isolation by encouraging people to get out and be part of something.

Fast facts

DIVISION South West

CORPS LEADER Captain Theresa Torr

FIND US ONLINE salvationarmy.org.uk/ swindon-gorse-hill

They are places where people can talk and make friends. Both groups have almost tripled in size, with up to 20 people now attending. A successful Kids Summer Club is also run during the summer holidays.

Our Messy Church has tripled in size, with approximately 30 in attendance each month.

Our Community Days have been a success and have provided vital funds that go towards running the corps and our community work. Our next is planned for August. Our community are very supportive of what we do.

Environmental fun

In 2024, we prepared our comprehensive corps mission journal, and a lot has happened since then. We are a registered Eco Church and have achieved the bronze award. We reuse and recycle wherever we can, including through our corps charity shop.

Although we’ve got limited outside space, the children are going to make the area at the front of the building into a nature garden. They’ve designed it with a rainbow painted on the wall, and have requested bird feeders, bug, bird and hedgehog houses, and a solarpowered water feature. They’re going to be responsible for keeping it going and making sure it’s weeded and looked after.

We have an eco-friendly children’s play space at the side of the building, with flooring made from recycled materials.

Play equipment being purchased this year will be made from recycled things, and we’ve got crates, tyres, planks and other items that can be moved around.

Some building modifications are needed. These will be undertaken through the Army’s carbon management plan.

A love of learning

We’re very supportive of literacy for children. On Saturdays and during school holidays, children can get a free book from our charity shop. This encourages them to read but also stops books going to landfill.

There’s a school next door, and children walk past every day. So we decided to set up a lending library and encourage children that come into our building to borrow books – the more they borrow, the more they read. We try and refresh the choice of books frequently.

We run a breakfast book club for families. After breakfast we sit down and read a book. Whatever the story is, we find age-appropriate activities around it, such as colouring, simple maths and crafts.

We also run two parent-and-toddler groups. One is a traditional group and the other is a Dance Fit Tots group. We like to sit down and read a book and make it sensory so the children can interact with the stories.

• For more information about becoming an Eco Church or Eco-Congregation, visit salvationist.org.uk/environment

He can’t save himself!

Captain Shawn Moye considers the abuse hurled at Jesus

‘STICKS and stones may break my bones, but words will never harm me.’ For some of us, these words will conjure up images of times when we were encouraged to be resilient and ignore hurtful words. That is easier said than done!

Pete Doherty sang a variation of this saying with his band, Babyshambles, which I am not recommending but believe is closer to the truth: ‘Well sticks and stones/ May break my bones/ Oh but your words, oh they really hurt me.’

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Have you ever been hurt because of people’s words? How did you react or respond?

Jesus certainly had plenty of words thrown at him. Words of praise and worship as he entered Jerusalem (see Mark 11:9 and 10). Words to question as the chief priests and the teachers of the Law challenged his authority (see Mark 11:28). Words to trap by asking about paying taxes (see Mark 12:14). Words to mock when the Roman soldiers beat and paraded him as, in their eyes, a false king (see Mark 15:18).

PAUSE AND REFLECT

How aware are you of the words that you use, especially in heated and threatening moments?

It is important not to lose the horror of what Jesus was put through. Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ was heavily criticised for many reasons,

including the graphic violence shown. It does remind us, however, of the brutality that Jesus faced and how it physically weakened him, making it difficult to carry the cross to Golgotha.

We see Simon of Cyrene forced to step in and carry the cross. I wonder what words might have been spoken between Simon and Jesus. Scripture does not record any, but I would like to imagine that they made an impact on Simon’s life.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Words have the power to heal as well as destroy.

When might you need to hear words of healing for yourself, and the situations you find yourself in?

Let Jesus whisper words that heal, and allow his love to free you from the hurts of your past.

As Jesus is lifted onto the cross, those who pass by hurl more words of insult and mockery, and shake their heads, too. These words echo Psalm 22:7: ‘All who see me mock me; they hurl insults, shaking their heads.’

In our study passage, Mark continues to create imagery of the abuse hurled towards the Righteous One by including words that were spoken earlier – in Mark 14:58 – by false witnesses: ‘So! You who are going to destroy the Temple and build it in three days, come down from the cross and save yourself!’ (vv29 and 30). The intention was to discredit what had been said about Jesus and to take away his authority – if you can’t save yourself, how are you going to destroy the Temple!

It is not surprising that those passing by and those who gathered around the crucifixion scene were uttering words of abuse as they witnessed their religious leaders doing the same. We read: ‘In the same way the chief priests and the teachers of the Law mocked him among themselves. “He saved others,” they said, “but he can’t save himself!”’ (v31). To utter those words, they must have really hated Jesus. How sad that they misunderstood what was truly happening.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Whether formalised or not, we all have influence and responsibility.

Are you aware how others might replicate what they see or hear you do and say?

In that place of ridicule and abuse, something truly wonderful was happening. It’s something that completely bypasses those who were hurling insults. The truth of the matter is that Jesus was not able to come down from the cross and save himself because he had to stay there so that humanity could be saved. Kent Brower, in his commentary on Mark, summarises it perfectly: ‘Mark’s readers know that it is precisely by staying on the cross that Jesus exercises ultimate authority, serves others, and re-creates the new covenant people of God.’

The wonder of the situation is that love wins, as Kathryn Scott encapsulates in her song ‘At the Foot of the Cross (Ashes to Beauty)’:

At the foot of the cross, Where grace and suffering meet

MARK 15:16–32

You have shown me your love Through the judgement you received.

Jesus absorbed the words of hate and ridicule. He did not retaliate but uttered words of forgiveness (see Luke 23:34) and those words of forgiveness are extended to each one of us. The place of torture becomes a place of healing and through his death we are made whole. Kathryn Scott continues in her song:

At the foot of the cross

Where I am made complete You have given me life Through the death you bore for me.

Not all words at the cross were abusive. When Jesus died, the centurion stated: ‘Surely this man was the Son of God!’ (v39). We can be grateful that Jesus didn’t save himself but that he saved us and made us whole.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

Pray this prayer from Amy Boucher Pye’s The Living Cross: ‘Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on me, a sinner. May my life reflect your forgiveness; may I extend your grace and mercy to those who wrong me; may I seek your cleansing when I turn from you. Come, Lord Jesus, and fill me afresh with your peace as I thank you for your sacrifice of love.’

To read the full, unedited Prayer Matters booklet, visit salvationist.org.uk/discipleship.

SATURDAY 21 MARCH: CARE FOR CREATION – SPRING POEMS

‘Nothing is so beautiful as Spring – / When weeds, in wheels, shoot long and lovely and lush;/ Thrush’s eggs look little low heavens, and thrush/ Through the echoing timber does so rinse and wring/ The ear, it strikes like lightnings to hear him sing; …/ What is all this juice and all this joy?/ A strain of the Earth’s sweet being in the beginning/ In Eden garden. – Have, get, before it cloy,/ Before it cloud, Christ, Lord, and sour with sinning,/ Innocent mind and Mayday in girl and boy,/ Most, O maid’s child, thy choice and worthy the winning.’ from ‘Spring’ by Gerard Manley Hopkins

SUNDAY 22 MARCH: SABBATH PRAYER – HIDDEN JOY

Lord, I bring you the places where joy has become hidden in my life. Forgive me for the times I have measured joy by how I feel or tied it to circumstances. Reawaken within me the joy you have already planted, rooted not in circumstance but in your presence.

taken from salvationist.org.uk/lent

MONDAY 23 MARCH: SHARING THE GOOD NEWS – EASTER OUTREACH

Lord Jesus, we pray for the events that will happen up and down the territory. We pray for those who will go into schools to tell the Easter story. We pray for lunch clubs, friendship groups, Messy Church sessions and Easter parties. We pray this wonderful news will land in people’s lives as never before. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room team)

TUESDAY 24 MARCH: SERVING AND CARING – WALES DIVISION

Pray for our two new children and youth workers: Andi, a Starfish regional coordinator in the east, and Mike, a youth and student outreach worker in the west. Pray that they will flourish in their roles. by Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts (Divisional Commander)

WEDNESDAY 25 MARCH: JUSTICE AND RECONCILIATION – ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY

As Dame Sarah Mullally is installed, we give thanks for the women you have called. May girls and young women be inspired by Godly women who answer your call and step forward, not seeking power but a ministry marked by service, justice and reconciliation. by Hayley Still (UK Engagement Coordinator, International Projects Office)

THURSDAY 26 MARCH: INTERNATIONAL SALVATION ARMY – ITALY AND GREECE TERRITORY

We pray today for the Italy and Greece Territory, which has vast experience caring for displaced people. Thank you for the thousands who have tasted God’s love through practical and spiritual care. We pray that God will provide resources to keep meeting people’s needs. We pray for the territorial leadership team of Lieut-Colonels Andrew and Darlene Morgan and Majors Cinzia and Samuel Walzer.

FRIDAY 27 MARCH: GROWING IN FAITH – SOCIAL MEDIA

Creator God, help us use the online world with care and wisdom. Keep us alert when we are tempted to compare ourselves to others. Nudge us when we lose precious time in endless scrolling. Help us use the platforms we occupy to speak truth and grace, and help us support those for whom the online space is addictive or unhelpful. by Lyndall Bywater (UKI Boiler Room team)

PRAYER REQUESTS

CAPTAIN SHAWN MOYE Corps Leader

Stepney and Poplar

Do you have something or someone you’d like us to pray for? Email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk with ‘prayer request’ in the subject line.

Exploring faith and belonging tog

As Salvationist turns 40, Editor Major Julian Watchorn and Managing Editor Ivan Radford talk about the ministry and mission of the magazine

ON 15 March 1986, the first issue of Salvationist was printed at Campfield Press.

The magazine followed on from two other publications, The Musician and the War Cry. At the time, War Cry carried Army news and articles of interest to Salvationists, served as an international paper and was sold to the general public. The Musician, launched in 1938, focused on band members and songsters. In March 1986, General Jarl Wahlström explained that ‘as an effective tool of evangelism the War Cry will in future address itself more specifically than hitherto to readers outside the ranks of the Army’, while Salvationist would replace The Musician and ‘highlight the fact that our musicians are first and foremost Salvationists’.

In the early years, pages were taken to Campfield Press each week on the train. In the 1990s, the team switched to desktop publishing and, even during the Covid-19 pandemic, the publication continued to be put together weekly. Over the decades, the weekly publication has become less of a newspaper and more of a magazine, but it continues to inform, encourage and nurture everyone linked to The Salvation Army.

In 2022, it was joined by the website salvationist.org.uk and, in February 2023, Salvationist Radio, an online radio station that grew out of Fortress Radio. Today, across multiple media platforms, Salvationist remains a place for people to explore faith and belonging together – in print, online and on-air.

Forty years on, why do you think Salvationist has endured?

Julian Looking back at the history of Salvationist and its former incarnation, The Musician, it’s always evolved to what the needs are at the time. I think Salvationist in its current form does that: it’s a place where anyone connected to The Salvation Army can find information but, more than that, it’s about taking people on a journey – their own

spiritual journeys as well as our journey as The Salvation Army.

Ivan A while ago we changed the tagline from ‘for everyone linked to The Salvation Army’ to ‘explore faith and belonging together’. It’s easy to feel like you belong on a local level, but it can sometimes be hard to remember we all belong to something bigger. Not just across the country or territory, but a worldwide Movement.

Julian I enjoy the opportunity to make people aware of the fantastic things happening in the Army. I don’t underestimate that privilege – I’m grateful for it. I love seeing people being creative about the way they engage with their communities, not being bound by the way we used to do things.

Ivan From week to week, we’re seeing a shift in people’s mindset, from going to church to being the church.

What’s a highlight of Salvationist for you?

Julian New commitments! It fills me with joy because it reassures me that God is at work and people are making formal commitments to be followers of Jesus within the Army.

Ivan We’ve published an average of more than one adult new commitment a day this past year, which is remarkable! I think the testimonies are my favourite thing. When we started that weekly space, we didn’t even know whether we’d have one a week, but they keep coming! It’s opened us up to such a wide range of voices and experiences, and testimonies are such a key part of our heritage as an Army. I also love that there’s no such thing as a ‘normal’ testimony – each week, the Creator of the universe is doing something in someone’s life and that never ceases to amaze me. I think people can be tempted to think their own testimony isn’t special, but everyone in the Army has something to share about their experience of God that is unique. We all have good news to share. That doesn’t

require big words or grand statements – just you in your own words.

Julian I think that’s an important challenge to people. We’re called to tell people what God’s doing in our lives, wherever we are and whatever circumstance we’re in.

What have you learnt in your time on Salvationist?

Julian That anything is possible, even if you don’t expect it. And that change isn’t always a bad thing. We’ve learnt to trust that God’s got things far beyond what we can see.

Ivan I’ve learnt it’s not about me or us, the Salvationist team, but about God and us as his Army. So it feels a little odd to be talking about ourselves in this way!

What’s something people might not know about Salvationist?

Julian That it’s soaked in prayer, that we pray about what we ought to write.

Ivan I think people think we know things when actually we don’t. We don’t know what we don’t know, and there’s a lot that we don’t know! For example, we don’t know what’s going on where people are unless they tell us. We don’t know – or necessarily care – how big or small a corps is. The thing I’d want people to know most of all is that we want to hear from them, whether that’s via a corps leader or someone authorised to send us reports, and get to know them – we want to be in relationship with them because that’s what community is. And that’s what magazines have always been about: community.

How has Salvationist changed in 40 years?

Julian I think Salvationist has always met the needs of its day, so it has evolved as the Army and society have evolved. Today, that includes a digital presence: Salvationist is not just a magazine. That gives us great opportunities to connect with people. Ivan This year is also the fourth

ether

belonging together

anniversary of magazine, and the written content we produce, are also published digitally – it’s part of a wider multi-platform multimedia offering.

Julian The beauty of that is people can engage with something that can bring them closer to God wherever they are.

How central is the mission priority of nurturing disciples of Jesus to Salvationist?

How are you encouraging new writers in Salvationist?

How central is the mission priority of nurturing disciples of Jesus to Salvationist?

Julian We seek to live out and engage with all the mission priorities, but certainly that one resonates most with our work.

Julian We seek to live out and engage with all the mission priorities, but certainly that resonates most with our work.

Ivan I think that really helps us a lot, being intentional in that nurturing of disciples – including ourselves! In theory, anything can be published, but we try to start with the essence, with the why. That’s led us to having weekly focuses or themes in each issue to be as impactful as possible, which makes the publication a more long-term resource. It’s also led us to having a topical space in each issue, to remind us that discipleship involves the whole of our lives during the week, not just on Sundays.

Julian Having a theme each week also makes each issue more accessible and makes the content more connected – it tells a better story. People can go directly to an issue and see material about that topic – older issues are available at salvationist.org.uk/magazine

Ivan I think that really helps us a lot, being intentional in that nurturing of disciples – including ourselves! In theory, anything can be published, but we try to start with the why. That’s led us to having weekly focuses or themes in each issue to be as impactful as possible. It’s also led us to having a topical space in each issue, to prevent us being in an insular bubble – and to remind us that discipleship involves the whole of our lives during the week, not just on Sundays.

Julian There’s an intentionality there on our part, and it’s an exciting reflection of what God is doing. Part of the Blueprint for Better Choices is prophetic voices, and we need to be listening. I genuinely believe God has got something to say to us through our young people and I’m excited by that. Ivan We haven’t in the past always been great at responding to new writers or people who send us unsolicited articles, but one of my favourite things is reading what other people have to There are some excellent established writers we are blessed to have contributing, but we’ve also published some brilliant

lives, wherever we are and whatever circumstance we’re in. ”

Ivan We haven’t in the past always been great at responding to new writers or people who send us unsolicited articles, but one of my favourite things is reading what other people have to

“ We’re called to tell people God’s doing lives, wherever are and whatever circumstance we’re in. ”

I particularly love the rhythm we’ve been setting around the territory’s mission priorities and values: we show how they’re being lived out territorially, divisionally, locally, personally. We want to capture the breadth of what it is to be a Salvationist.

Julian Having a theme each week also makes each issue more accessible and makes the content more connected and impactful – it tells a better story. People can go directly to an issue and see material about that topic. I particularly love the rhythm we’ve been setting around the territory’s mission priorities and values: we show how they’re being lived out, territorially, divisionally, locally, personally. We want to capture the breadth of what it is to be a Salvationist.

Ivan And as part of those weekly themes, there’s something exciting about issues that tie in with events: if you can’t be at an event and you read about it the week after, that’s helpful – we provide a historical record for the Army – but if you’re able to engage with and pray into something as it’s happening, that feels powerful. It’s about putting people on the same page, having a rhythm across the territory of what we are thinking and praying about together. And for anyone at an event, it gives them something

Julian Perhaps there has traditionally been a thought that we are simply the mouthpiece for the Army’s leadership. But we see it as a two-way conversation. We want to be listening as much as we’re telling.

Has the language of Salvationist changed over the years?

Ivan In that first issue in 1986, there was an article about the use of Army abbreviations. Today, we are intentional about trying to avoid abbreviations and to not be a puzzle box of jargon. We have a regular column –The Salvation Army Explained – to break down barriers of assumed knowledge.

Julian I’ve certainly read things in that column that I’d forgotten!

Ivan Another part of our process people might not know about is that we follow a territorial style guide, which is periodically reviewed, with any changes signed off by Cabinet. It’s not about changing wording for the sake of it.

Julian No, it’s a helpful process of reflection. Style guides are about recognising how we can be consistent in the language that we use.

What’s the most challenging part of working on Salvationist?

Julian There are occasions when people write something and we have to decide if this is the right issue, or perhaps they’ve written more material than we have room for. The challenge is continuing to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, to ask, as we all should, whether we’re doing the right thing.

Ivan It’s being prayerful and discerning about the right time to focus on a topic. If we receive something we can’t use now, my hope is that answer is ‘not now’, rather than ‘never’. It’s a fun balancing act, needing to organise a weekly publication to a schedule while also surrendering the timing to God! It’s entirely counterintuitive,

provides what we need.

Ivan Otherwise, I think another challenge is perception. There are people who perhaps think they know what Salvationist is, but haven’t looked at a copy recently – and they might be surprised! I would encourage anyone who reads it to share it with someone else. Because we can see a story unfolding of God doing something exciting in the UK and Ireland Territory and we want everyone else to see that and to be part of it.

Julian I didn’t read Salvationist as often as I could have before I was appointed to this role – I’m sure I’m not alone there! In hindsight, that was my loss.

Ivan Growing up, personally, I didn’t think that Salvationist was for me. My passion is wanting to make it a magazine for everyone in the Army – a place where you can see yourself in it and be represented in it. And we have a growing range of ways for people to be heard, whether it’s sharing a poem, a letter or something creative in our Artists’ Corner.

What’s next?

Julian We’ve put ourselves in a place where we are open to the Holy Spirit, and we want to continue to be relevant and to engage people in our shared journey, because it’s a joyful one.

Ivan For me, what’s next is staying intentional and remaining open and curious. In the past couple of years, we have been in contact with roughly 60 per cent of corps in the territory in some form. That’s amazing, but there’s a whole other 40 per cent we want to get to know and see how God is moving in their lives.

• Get in touch with the Salvationist team at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk. For information about subscribing and to read articles and past issues online, visit salvationist.org.uk/magazine

Salvationist statistics

Every week, Salvationist shares updates, stories and testimonies telling the story of God working in and through The Salvation Army. These are some of the numbers we’ve seen in the past year that show the impact of God in the lives of people, corps, centres and fresh expressions across the UK and Ireland.

113

people stepping up as local officers up 25% from 2024–2025!

409 adult new commitments published 1.1 average of adult new commitments a day!

127

junior soldier enrolments published 64% of corps represented

Editors

Lieut-Colonel Malcolm Bale March 1986 to July 1986

Captain Trevor Howes July 1986 to May 1991

Major David Armistead May 1991 to October 1994

Major Trevor Howes October 1994 to December 1994

Major Michael Marvell December 1994 to December 1996

Captain Charles King December 1996 to June 2004

Captain Dean Pallant June 2004 to September 2007

Major Christine Clement October 2007 to July 2011

Major Stephen Poxon August 2011 to November 2012

Major Jane Kimberley January 2013 to January 2016

Captain Andrew Stone February 2016 to October 2017

Lieut-Colonel Jonathan Roberts November 2017 to July 2022

Major Mal Davies July 2022 to December 2022

Major Julian Watchorn February 2023 to present

Praising God – any time!

Sam Davidson and Cara Mott talk about the launch of Morning Praise with Kids Alive! as a podcast

IN February 2023, Salvationist Radio launched with Morning Praise with Kids Alive! as part of its Sunday programming line-up. As it becomes available for the first time as a podcast and playlist, Audio Content Editor Sam Davidson and Kids Alive! Editor Cara Mott take us behind the scenes.

How did Morning Praise with Kids Alive! first come about?

Sam We wanted to cater for all ages on Salvationist Radio. We knew adults were catered for but we had no children’s songs in the catalogue of music being played. So we took the format that already worked in Kids Alive! and offered it in a different medium.

What’s the format of the show?

Sam Each show has songs, a Giggle in the Middle with jokes, and a thought from the Kids Alive! editor. We have a chat about what’s in Kids Alive! that week. We also have a prayer and part of that is the same every week, so that listeners can join in.

Three years on, how’s it going?

Sam Really well! We started with Justin Reeves, then editor of Kids Alive!, as co-host. Now Cara is the co-presenter. It’s a joy to put the programme together. We’ve not missed a week and we’ve had some really lovely messages from people who enjoy it.

Cara When I took over as editor, it was one of the things I wasn’t looking forward to, because it wasn’t something I’d ever done before! But I really enjoy doing it every week. Sam’s got so much energy and joy!

Do you have favourite songs you’ve played so far?

Sam ‘Graves into Gardens’ and ‘I Speak Jesus’ are really good.

Cara ‘I’m a Child of God’ is good, with a nice, simple message. It’s one that gets stuck in my head! I think songs are a nice way to take things in. When kids listen to the radio, it also tends to be as a family, so it’s multi-generational, and I think the songs are a big part of that.

Sam Some of the songs will be in my Spotify Wrapped this year!

Giggle in the Middle is a key part of the magazine and the show. Do you have any favourite jokes?

Sam I love any animal joke, but I also like the punny ones!

Cara Any kind of pirate jokes ‘arrr’ my favourites!

What led to the new podcast version of the show?

Sam We broadcast the show at 7.30am on Saturdays, 9.30am on Sundays and 7.30am on Mondays. Sunday mornings tend to be most popular, but not everyone can listen live. A podcast version means it’s available to anyone. Cara It’ll also help people use it as a resource in different ways. That could be listening in the car or at a Sunday school or after-school club.

How can people listen?

Sam You can listen live and access the podcast at tsa.link/morningpraise It’s also on all major audio platforms,

The Morning Praise with Kids Alive! prayer

Thank you, God, for all that grows. Thank you for the sky’s rainbows. Thank you for the stars that shine. Thank you for these friends of mine. Thank you for the moon and the sun. And thank you, God, for all that you’ve done.

including Amazon Music, Spotify and Apple Music. And there’s a playlist on Spotify, so you can listen to the songs we play.

How does the show get made?

Sam If we’re in the building at the same time, we record in the studio. Then I pick the songs, which are based on what’s in Kids Alive! that week and Cara’s thought.

Cara Even when we’re not able to be together to record, we’ve got into a good rhythm and still find a way to bounce off each other!

Cara, how do you come up with your Ed’s Bit each week?

Cara It’s inspired by what’s in Kids Alive! that week. Sometimes it’s tough, sometimes it’s easy. If I can’t think of how to begin, I just start writing, even if I haven’t worked out what I’m going to say!

Do you have any highlights so far?

The International Day of Children and Young People last April, when Michelle wrote the Ed’s Bit and read it for the radio! She did really well! Any time we have input from kids, it’s great, including when people send in their jokes.

Is Giggle in the Middle still open for submissions?

Always!

Absolutely! Just record a joke and send it to radio@salvationarmy.org.uk!

Answering big questions

Digital

Faith

Engagement

Manager Lauren Westwood talks about her role within the digital faith and membership communications team

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’ve worked with The Salvation Army for almost seven years now. After university, I worked in the editorial department at International Headquarters, before joining the communications and Women’s Ministries teams at a time when my spiritual life was finding new depths. I became aware of how my unique combination of skills and personality traits could be used to honour God. I realised the interests and loves I had for writing and communicating were something God could use, wanted to use and was already using. I did a course led by the Centre for Cultural Witness, and that was a transformational year for me. It felt like God was preparing me for something – then the job advert for this role came up!

Six months in, how’s the role going?

It’s great! There’s something pioneering in the Army’s investment into faith communications. Whatever your role or job is, Jesus can be at the centre of your work, but there is something encouraging about our organisation having a team of five people at Territorial Headquarters – led by Digital Faith and Membership Lead Bethany Gibson – whose roles are dedicated to digital faith engagement. The expansion of our team has come at a time when people really are searching –figuratively, in a spiritual sense, and literally on Google. People are asking questions about how to pray or become a Christian in digital spaces, and that is being responded to in several ways across this territory.

I’m reminded of a prophetic image that somebody spoke over me about two years ago: a public square with a small fountain springing up that’s fresh, life-giving and unexpected, and people who are thirsting for more and better. I really feel that’s a call God has put on my life: to work with him to meet that need with sincerity, passion and conviction, and to communicate in ways that don’t hold back and encourage others not to hold back. The digital landscape can often be weighted down with cynicism or despair, but I think that’s even more reason to increase our presence in those spaces.

What does that look like for us on social media?

We want to go where people are and be relevant. So far for us, that has looked like an increase in video content on Facebook, trying to build opportunities where people are seeing a real person professing real faith in Jesus. Working with Audio Content Editor Sam Davidson, we have released various podcasts with a video excerpt and are seeing a lot of engagement. Also, taking the opportunity to bring people together in a united prayer as we did for Covenant Sunday.

Prayer content often sees high engagement, and I think that speaks to the wider searching and responsiveness in people’s hearts at the moment.

And faith engagement includes both discipleship and evangelism, doesn’t it?

Faith engagement is for all people, not just for people who have never engaged with faith. There’s always more to discover, there’s always more discipling to be done. Our digital team straddles the worlds of Salvationist, Kids Alive! and War Cry, and we work in proximity with all the people producing that content.

What excites you right now?

The people I’m working with are passionate about telling a better story for society and for the Army, and for finding new ways to bring people into that story. I’m excited by the collaboration that Digital Faith Engagement Officer Jess McKie, War Cry Editor Major Andrew Stone and I are taking with digital colleagues in the wider organisation, as there is such an openness to prioritise and platform faith. We’re being bold on the Army’s social media channels and unpacking questions about faith. The search engine optimisation work that Website Manager Tim Davies is doing on the Exploring Faith pages on salvationist.org.uk is also so exciting. Thousands of people are coming to our website with big questions. Finding ways to answer some of those is extremely exciting.

What’s next?

The Co-Founder Catherine Booth said: ‘Adapt your measures to your circumstances and to the necessities of the times.’ We want to continue engaging with people in that spirit of innovation and creativity.

One of the ways we’re doing this is exploring email to create opportunities for people to have that extra nudge to connect with Jesus. It’s not about adding more noise to our lives, but more of a tap on the shoulder during key moments in the year – the vision is to invite people to pause, pray and reflect, to deepen their walk with Jesus. The first opportunity is during Holy Week. You can sign up to our Holy Week emails at tsa.link/ holy-week-email

An opportunity to be heard

Ivan Radford introduces a training webinar for anyone interested in writing for Salvationist

HAVE you ever wanted to write something for Salvationist but not known where to start?

Have you ever been inspired to reflect on a piece of Scripture but not had anywhere to share it? Have you ever had something happen at your corps that you wish people knew about, but there’s no one to write about it?

Salvationist exists to tell the story of The Salvation Army in the UK and Ireland Territory. That includes you –and everyone else in this Movement.

We’re a platform for you to be informed, inspired, equipped and nurtured. But we’re also a platform for you to be heard, to inspire, to challenge and to encourage others. We’re here so that you can be part of the conversation. That conversation only works if you’re given the opportunity to say something. And we believe that God has things to say to us through the members of this God-driven Movement. That’s why we’re launching a new writing webinar for anyone who is passionate about or interested in writing for Salvationist

The free course, led by our editorial team, will take place over Microsoft Teams and include tips and tricks to develop your writing, and guidance on how to contribute to Salvationist – whether that’s telling people about what God’s doing at your corps, if you don’t already have someone authorised to send us reports, events

you’ve attended or your favourite Bible passage.

This is an opportunity for anyone over the age of 15. It’s an opportunity to learn but also to gain practical writing experience, including potential bylines in print and online.

If you’re interested in reflecting on Scripture, we want to help give you some of the skills to do it.

If you’re itching to tackle a TV show through a faith lens, we want to help you find your voice.

If you want to tell people about what God is doing at your corps, we want to help you get your name in print and have an impact in your church.

If you have a passion for a media career, we want to help you join the dots with your faith.

It took me until I was 30 to realise that my love of writing and my work in journalism weren’t separate from being a Christian – I don’t want anyone in the UK and Ireland, whoever you are and however old you are, to have to wait to discover the same thing.

Because God’s given you a passion and talent for writing for a reason, whether that’s encouraging others, challenging yourself or simply spreading the good news with everyone else in the Army – in this territory and around the world!

Whatever you go on to write, I can testify that using your God-given talent to honour him will unlock new ways for

Webinar details

The first webinar will take place over Microsoft Teams on a weekend later this year (date TBC).

The webinar is open to anyone connected to a corps in the UK and Ireland Territory over the age of 15.

You will not need a Salvation Army email address to take part.

To register your interest, email salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk.

you to grow in your faith and to be part of something bigger. I’m excited to hear the prophetic voices out there waiting to know someone is listening.

If that’s you, get in touch! And if you know someone you think would be interested, tell them! Even better, give them this magazine to read!

Because if you’re reading this, it’s your magazine too. And this is your opportunity to be a part of it.

• Questions, comments or ideas? Get in touch with the team, or find out more about the writing webinar, at salvationist@salvationarmy.org.uk

IVAN RADFORD Managing Editor Salvationist

Committed to lifelong learning

WILLIAM BOOTH COLLEGE

THE graduation ceremony celebrated the achievements of Salvation Army officers gaining a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Christian Theology and Practice, along with a group of territorial envoys and employed spiritual leaders gaining a Certificate in Higher Education (CertHE) in Salvation Army Leadership, report Practitioner Tutor Major Malcolm Martin and Higher Education Degree Course Leader Major Paul Hilditch

The overall theme of thanksgiving celebrated commitment to learning, the achievement of the graduates, and the support that they received during their studies.

The international scope of officers within the BA cohort was recognised –15 serve in the UK and Ireland Territory, two at Territorial Headquarters in the Norway, Iceland and the Færoes Territory, one in the USA Eastern Territory and one at the Salvation Army Training College in Lahore, Pakistan – together with recognition of envoys and pioneer leaders who formed the first cohort of the CertHE. It was acknowledged that all students had committed themselves to learning for spiritual growth and to enhance their daily ministry.

Following a welcome from Unit Head for Higher Education Major Matt Spencer, Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main led worship. William Booth College Principal Lieut-Colonel Mark Herbert drew upon the text of Jeremiah 3:15,

which is displayed in the college reception: ‘I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding’ (English Standard Version). He recognised that enhanced understanding can help us to minister more effectively. He also drew attention to the response that Jesus gave when asked about the greatest commandment, asserting that graduation celebrates the effort to fulfil the command to love God with our whole being and to allow this inner transformation to impact our external actions. This was not the end of the learning journey, he acknowledged.

Introducing the programme of studies for the BA programme, Major Paul Hilditch highlighted that the motto of York St John University – the validating partner for the degree programmes –reflects The Salvation Army’s vision of fullness of life for all; learning is a means of experiencing greater fullness of life and of seeking to bring this life to others.

A unique feature of the students on the BA course was their decision to form a brass band as an expression of fellowship during their intensive study periods. Major Martin Cordner, a graduate of the course, introduced his newly composed piece ‘With a Degree of Difficulty’, which reflected the joy the cohort experienced in their fellowship of learning. The melodies within the piece echoed the modules of study, with a brief nod to ‘The Wonder of His Grace’ and the line ‘many are the things

I cannot understand’.

Major Sarah King (IHQ) introduced the first cohort of the CertHE in Salvation Army Leadership – validated with the University of Gloucestershire – which was intentionally designed as a practical theology programme to support leaders in their local contexts, reflecting the tenet that biblical wisdom is largely about the right use of knowledge.

Representative student responses from Lieutenant Nazia Yousaf (Pakistan Territory) and Pioneer Leader Bethany Munn (Faversham) identified how learning had helped to transform life and ministry, rather than simply affirm existing practices. The support of fellow students, college staff, family, friends and communities was highly valued. Study helped to prompt deep questions about spiritual growth, integrated holiness, the nature of leadership, motivations for ministry and the need to seek God’s vision over personal preferences. Lieutenant Nazia was delighted to be present and was extremely thankful for the college’s support throughout her studies.

The ceremony concluded with reaffirmation that a commitment to lifelong learning is an expression of our love for God and others. Ultimately, it is God who blesses us with deeper understanding and enhanced skills for effective participation in God’s mission. The celebrations continued with a buffet lunch and afternoon tea.

Pictures: Paul Harmer

Major Martin Cordner conducts the BA (Hons) Christian Theology and Practice cohort’s brass band

Lieutenant Elliot Kervin

Edinburgh Gorgie

Being part of this learning community has been great. Although initially having reservations about my ability to study at this level, the support and guidance of the tutors were excellent. Studying alongside friends and colleagues was fantastic, with each study week offering fellowship, challenge, support and lots of laughter!

The classroom teaching and discussions were especially valuable, allowing us to share experience and learn from one another. The theological study continually challenged my assumptions, broadened my thinking and often emboldened my faith. A deepening understanding of theology has helped me relate to more people in ministry through greater reflection, enabling me to listen more carefully to their stories and recognise God at work within their diverse experiences.

The practical elements of the course have helped me reflect more intentionally on existing ministry activities, and this learning is shaping how I approach, evaluate, and develop future ministry. I highly recommend this course!

Major Ali Raybould Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery Coordinator (Scotland)

Territorial Envoy Cadet Martyn Jackson

Nottingham Aspley

‘Transformative’ sounds very dramatic, yet studying Christian theology has undeniably changed my understanding of ministry. Or, more honestly, I have been changed. I was introduced to new ways of reading Scripture, challenged by a whole host of theologians. I embraced the permission to ask questions, even what and why I believed. And God opened my eyes to new truths and revealed a deeper understanding of love.

I have been changed by those who shared this journey. Inspired and humbled by my fellow students, encouraged and supported by excellent tutors. Even if I had learnt nothing, the Spirit-filled worship, the laughter – and tears –and the friendships formed would have made study worthwhile. To misquote a famous line, ‘Who can say if I’ve been changed for the better? But, because of this programme, my ministry has been changed for good.’

This distance learning course opened up for me access to the William Booth College library, with residential study days and interactions with some of the Army’s best teachers and lecturers. Through both in-person and pre-recorded lectures our group explored and wrestled with topic after topic.

So what did I learn? We are a Bible-believing Army. We have strong theological foundations for what we do and believe. And we are actively working out what that looks like as we interact with, serve and preach salvation to God-hungry lives in a rapidly changing world.

The mission goes on, but now I stand on a firmer foundation, from which I can pivot to more effectively speak Jesus to lost souls who are hurting, broken and desperate for love, truth and transformation. Looking back over the course, I’m so glad I took on the challenge. Looking ahead, I’m so glad that the challenge to learn never ends.

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

NUNHEAD The children and young people kickstarted Lent with a viewing of The Greatest Showman, complete with popcorn and sweets and a Bible study inspired by the film. They all had the opportunity to practise circus skills and, by the end of the day, there was plate spinning and juggling without any help! The café also provided food and drinks for everyone watching the film. – KS

COMMUNITY

MIRFIELD The parent-and-toddler group donated Bibles to a local prison, due to a desire for prisoners wanting to read Scripture. Pictured are corps leader Major Val Spivey, Parentand-Toddler Group Leader Jenni Sellers and Prison Chaplain Brenda Wood. – VS

MUSIC

SHEERNESS Chatham Songsters led an afternoon of worship at The Hope Street Centre. The service, based on the theme God’s Greatest Gift – Jesus, was attended by members of several local congregations. The songsters presented the life of Jesus, examining his birth, teachings, death and resurrection through a variety of songs and items from soloists. Five songsters also gave brief testimonies, and both corps enjoyed the time of worship and fellowship together. – GD

INTERNATIONAL

IHQ A new four-part podcast series, titled Unalterable: Reclaiming The Salvation Army’s Unalterable Legacy of Women Who Lead, explores how women’s roles in the Movement have developed over time and how women’s ministries continue to shape it today and into the future. Produced collaboratively by the USA Southern Territory, the Canada and Bermuda Territory and Women’s Ministries at IHQ, Unalterable is hosted by Rebekah McNeally and Lauren Westwood, and features honest conversations, personal stories and thoughtful historical reflection. The series is available via tsa.link/unalterable. – AR

EVENT

BEDFORD CONGRESS HALL The corps hosted a great day of celebration, Bible study and fellowship, with many travelling from different corps for the Zimbabwean Praise Home League Rally. The hall was full and alongside the different worship expressions they shared in a Zimbabwean feast. – JM

SALISBURY Young people from all parts of the division gathered for the visit of the divisional youth band. Sunday afternoon’s concert was offered as a gift to the community in thanks for their support of corps community work. Extra seating had to be arranged to fulfil demand for seats. Captain Martin Crawford (Southampton Shirley) led morning worship, which included testimony and insight from members of the band. The afternoon concert included a spiritual thought from Divisional Youth Specialist Sam Grinsted around the selection ‘Bow the Knee’. The event attracted interest from media, which led to a TV interview with corps leader Captain Martin Davison, who explained the rationale behind the offer and why music is still a significant part of Salvation Army ministry with young people. – MD

ANNIVERSARY

PARKHEAD The 140th corps anniversary celebrations got off to a good start with a Get to Know You meeting on Saturday night with International Secretaries for Africa Commissioners Keith and Yvonne Conrad. Comrades from Uganda, Tanzania, Cameroon, Namibia and Nigeria spoke about the Army’s work in these countries and shared songs and an international buffet. A banner in the shape of a Celtic cross was presented by Evangeline Kingsley Grace and Corps Secretary Flora Muir, made of materials provided by the international corps members. Sunday’s meeting, under Commissioners Keith and Yvonne, included a time to write prayer cards for either the corps, family or community to be handed out. A time of reflection followed, and spontaneous testimonies were given about what the corps has meant to people. We were reminded about our heritage and to remember that the community needs us too and to include them in our church family. It was a great time of blessing and thanksgiving to God for faithful service. – AD

MUSIC

BRADFORD CITADEL

Gibson was welcomed as an adherent by corps leader Lieutenant Joanna Morgan. Glynis has been attending the corps for a while, and spoke of the warm welcome she has received, feeling at home in the corps. Also pictured is corps leader Lieutenant Thomas Morgan. – TM

NOTTING HILL

THE corps enrolled three junior soldiers, all influenced by their cousin, who was made a junior soldier last year. Amy, Ethan and Oliver all shared beautiful testimonies and showed the work they did in preparation. Acting Children and Youth Ministry Team Leader Linda McTurk knelt with each junior soldier and prayed for them before presenting them their junior soldier badges. They are pictured with their cousin, Chante, and the senior leadership team, Audrey Phipps and Linda and Stuart McTurk. – AR

BECCLES

MICHELLE Barrett was re-enrolled as a soldier by corps leader Cadet Harry Woods. Michelle, previously a soldier at Woodbridge, chose ‘Dare to Be a Daniel’ and ‘The Wonder of His Grace’, playing the second verse as a euphonium solo. – LW

NOTTING HILL

TRACEY Wood has been linked to the corps for some years but, after seeing new adherents welcomed, she asked why she was not a member! Tracey said it was because of Jesus she started attending, and she continues to attend because of Jesus. When she can, she volunteers at the corps Sanctuary Project. She was welcomed by the senior leadership team, Audrey Phipps and Linda and Stuart McTurk. – AR

BELLSHILL

STEPHEN Docherty was enrolled as a soldier by corps leader Major David Burns. Stephen, a former junior soldier of the corps, testified movingly about the period he spent away from God, of the steady encouragement he received when he reconnected with the corps and of the influence of many people in leading him to this point of recommitment. Stephen is pictured with corps leaders Majors David and Gillian Burns. – MS

VALENTINA Majumder was welcomed as an adherent by corps officers Captains Eun Ok Shin and Wan Gi Lee. Valentina arrived in Hertfordshire shortly after the start of the war in Ukraine. She had been a staunch Christian when her country was still part of the Soviet Union, was baptised secretly and withstood considerable persecution for standing up for her faith. For many years, she and her husband – a doctor – worked among the poor in Bangladesh, giving their time and energy to people in need. She told the congregation that, as a youngster, she had been taught to live by God’s Law and to see love in every person. ‘Serving people is the best way to connect to God,’ she insisted, ‘and it gives life true meaning.’ Also pictured are Recruiting Sergeant Major Sheila Parmenter and Corps Secretary Anona Jones. – BH

ST ALBANS

GLYNIS

Appointed

Effective 5 January

MAJOR ANTHONY COLCLOUGH, Associate Officer, Loughborough (2.5 days per week)

MAJOR RICHARD COOK , Wollaston (1.5 days per week)

MAJOR PAULINE COOK , Wollaston (1.5 days per week)

Effective 8 January

MAJOR KEVIN STANBURY, Business Services Director, William Booth College

Effective 26 February

MAJOR SUSAN WOODGATE, Spiritual Life Director, William Booth College

Effective 4 March

MAJOR LIZ CHAPE, Tunbridge Wells and Divisional Personnel Officer, South East Division (4 days per week)

Effective 5 March

MAJOR KENNETH SANDISON, Homelessness Services Assistant Business Support Officer, Mission Service

CAPTAIN JONATHAN PITTS, Support Officer, Central, Southern and Channel Islands Division (pro tem until 16 July)

CAPTAIN SARAH PITTS, Support Officer and Divisional Candidates Officer, Central, Southern and Channel Islands Division (pro tem until 16 July)

MAJOR GARY LACEY, Assistant Secretary for Spiritual Life Development, Territorial Leaders’ Office

Effective 26 March

MAJOR ALISON GREER , Homelessness Services Area Operations Manager, Ireland, Mission Service

Effective 1 April

CAPTAIN RONA MUTCHA , USA Central Territory

Effective 1 May

TERRITORIAL ENVOY JON HARRIS, Forest of Dean (part-time until 1 August)

Local officers appointed

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY LEADER TALITHA RUDDOCK , Birmingham Citadel

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY LEADER REBECCA BRILL , Merthyr Tydfil

Wedding anniversaries

Platinum (70 years)

BETTY AND RETIRED BANDMASTER BRIAN HILLYER , Gravesend, on 31 March

Diamond (60 years)

JOY AND RETIRED BANDMASTER ROY NEWLAND, Ringwood, on 19 March

BRENDA AND GEORGE DICKENS, Birmingham Citadel, on 26 March

DAVID AND HAZEL SEABRIDGE, Birmingham Citadel, on 2 April

Promoted to Glory

ELEANOR TAYLOR-WHITE, Boscombe

GORDON MUIR , Parkhead

RETIRED CORPS SERGEANT-MAJOR TERENCE SHARMAN, York, on 21 January

MAJOR MARION BURDETT from Oaklands Care Home, Waterlooville, on 21 February

MAJOR CHARLOTTE MAY from Salford Royal on 10 March

Bereaved

CORPS SECRETARY FLORA MUIR , Parkhead, of her husband Gordon Muir

ELLEEN SHARMAN, York, of her husband Retired Corps SergeantMajor Terence Sharman, YOUNG PEOPLE’S SERGEANT-MAJOR BEVERLEY WRIGHT, York, and NEIL SHARMAN, Thurgoona, Australia Territory, of their father

ENGAGEMENTS

General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

Thu 19 Mar – Mon 30 Mar Kenya East Territory

Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries Commissioner Shelley Hill

Wed 18 Mar – Sun 29 Mar Kenya East Territory (International Conference of Leaders)

Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main

Fri 20 Mar – Sat 28 Mar Kenya East Territory (International Conference of Leaders)

Fri 3 Apr – Sun 5 Apr Boscombe

Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development Colonel Julie Forrest

Sat 21 Mar William Booth College (Children and Youth Conference)

Wed 25 Mar Canterbury Cathedral (Installation of the Right Rev and Right Hon Dame Sarah Mullally as Archbishop of Canterbury)*

*Colonel Peter Forrest only

NOTICES

Emerging Music Leaders Forum

Music and Creative Arts invites anyone involved in or exploring music leadership to join its next online forum at 8pm on 23 March. It’s an opportunity to learn together, hear about new resources and take part in discussions on brass, vocal and contemporary worship. Email music@salvationarmy.org.uk for more information and to register.

Mindset: The digital re-wiring of childhood

This single session course is available to anyone who wants to engage with the role of technology in young people’s lives – its benefits and its challenges for their development. The online training takes place on 24 March from 6.30pm to 9pm. For more information, email childrenyouth@salvationarmy.org.uk

Remembering someone special

Following Mother’s Day, if you want to remember your mum or a mother figure who has given you love, guidance and support, you can leave a message on The Salvation Army’s dedication page, a space to share memories and photos of loved ones. The virtual wall is free and to use and a donation to the Army is optional. Access the page at thesalvationarmy.dedicationpage.org/mothersday

SOUNDS

Sunday Worship

Join Salvationists across the territory in worship, with music, prayer and a Bible message from a guest speaker. This week’s message is from Captain Rob Westwood-Payne (Maidenhead). Can’t join us at 11am on Sundays? Catch up with the weekly podcast of highlights. Each week’s broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 6pm, Mondays at 12am and Thursdays at 9am.

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio

Faith in Sport

Join Sports Mission Specialist Rob Moye (THQ) as he meets people who connect their passion for Jesus with their love of sport. This episode features Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main.

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio

Morning Praise with Kids Alive!

Get your day started with half an hour of music, prayer, a thought and lots of giggles! Listen on Saturdays from 7.30am to 8am. Can’t tune in on Saturday morning? The broadcast is repeated in full on Sundays at 9am and Mondays at 7.30am.

• Listen online at salvationist.org.uk/radio

THE corps experienced a blessed weekend of music under the leadership of Music Editorial Manager Andrew Blyth (THQ) and Songster Leader Sue Blyth (Peterborough Citadel). The occasion acknowledged 25 years of local leadership of Songster Leader Liz Harrod, a complete surprise to Liz as everything had been planned without her knowledge. Liz arrived for a Saturday afternoon rehearsal, was greeted by Andrew and Sue and members of the band, past and present, to rehearse for an evening festival. Andrew conducted the band in Liz’s favourite piece ‘The Light of the World’ and Sue conducted the songsters. On Sunday, the Blyths reminded the congregation about the importance of living in community. We thank God for Liz and her leadership over 25 years, and for the many blessings received that weekend. To God be the glory! – AF

MAJOR David Scott led a thanksgiving service in honour of Graham Warburton’s exceptional service as a herald. Graham has recently retired, after selling Army papers in Swanage and Wareham for more than 22 years, raising the equivalent of more than £264,000 during that time! Graham’s ministry was recognised by a full congregation in Swanage Methodist Church, including regular customers, Mayor Mike Bonfield, John Corben of Corbens Estate Agents, where Graham sold his papers, corps members and representatives of other local churches. Words of thanks were offered by the mayor, John and soldier Nigel Dragon. Divisional Area Officer Major Denise Cooper presented Graham with a certificate in recognition of exceptional service and shared a letter from Divisional Commander Major David Alton, who said that Graham’s commitment to this ministry ‘has not only helped to make Salvation Army publications available to the wider community but has also carried the light of Christ into countless homes and communities’. Recognition and appreciation were also expressed at Boscombe Corps, where Graham now soldiers. – DC

AT a recent Salvation Army Trustee Company (SATCo) board meeting, Territorial Leader Commissioner Paul Main acknowledged the dedicated service of non-executive director Helen O’Brien, who stepped down after a commendable 10 years’ service. Helen’s faithful contribution to the Army has encompassed various roles, with a particular focus on Social Services mission, strategy development and chairing the Risk Management Committee. Her diligent, calm and thoughtful demeanour, and unwavering passion for the Army’s mission have significantly enriched the board’s endeavours. Helen will be greatly missed by those who had the privilege of working alongside her during this time. – EE

and Songster David Wicks completed 73 years’ service as a bandsman and 38 years’ service as a songster. Songster Joan Wicks completed 68 years’ service as a songster. The corps were delighted to recognise their service, and both sections will miss their regular attendance, devotions and willingness to share in prayer. It was good that some of their family were able to be with them on this special day. We pray that they will enjoy their retirement. – JW

BATLEY

BANDSMAN Eric Fordham was presented with a certificate of recognition as he retired from the corps band after 64 years of playing. Eric thanked the band for the many years of fellowship, and Bandmaster David Haywood thanked Eric for his loyal and faithful service to the band. Eric is pictured with corps leader Major Paul Wilson and Bandmaster David. – MS

BANDSMAN

EXETER TEMPLE

HARLOW