28 Messengers of Grace Welcomed at CFOT
Searching for Healing After Sexual Abuse
Remembering the Sacrifices for Our Freedom
THE VOICE OF THE ARMY
November 2019
Salvationist.ca
New Salvation Army musical debuts off-Broadway with a Canadian connection
WHEN OTHERS TURN THEIR BACKS, LEAN IN.
BOOTHUC.CA
EDUCATION FOR A BETTER W ORLD
CONTENTS
Salvationist November 2019 • Volume 14, Number 11
Seven Tips for Sermon Preparation
When Music Isn’t One of Your Gifts
Thanks in Advance: Storing Up Gratitude
Farewell Interview With Commissioner Susan McMillan
THE VOICE OF THE ARMY
October 2019
Welcome Home Commissioners Floyd and Tracey Tidd return to Canada and Bermuda as territorial leaders
5 Frontlines 26 Cross Culture 27 People & Places The Talk by Ken Ramstead
Columns 4 Editorial I New York by Geoff Moulton
11 Chief Priorities In Living Memory by Colonel Edward Hill
17 Viewpoint All Creatures Great and Small by Darryn Oldford
25 Grace Notes In the Trenches by Captain Laura Van Schaick
September 2019
Letting Go of the “Perfect” Body
How the Raptors’ Victory Changed Us
Salvationist.ca
Timothy Camp Program Mobilizes Youth Leaders
Nigerian Couple Makes New Life in Canada
THE VOICE OF THE ARMY
August 2019
Salvationist.ca
B.C. Congress and Commissioning Highlights
Leaving everything behind, a family gets a new start with The Salvation Army
Escape From Syria’s War Zone
Catch Up Online
Departments
30 Not Called?
Gateway Garden Offers Healthy Options
THE VOICE OF THE ARMY
Salvationist.ca
8
Features 8 Messengers of Grace Welcomed Twenty-eight cadets enter the College for Officer Training, the most in 15 years. by Geoff Moulton
12 Skeleton Army Debuts Off-Broadway New Salvation Army musical, conceived and performed by Canadians, captivates audiences at Theatre 315 in New York City. by Geoff Moulton
14 A Horrifying Truth When their son was sexually abused, the Hicks family searched for justice and healing. by Kristin Ostensen
18 All in a Day’s Work A Salvation Army program in Hamilton, Ont., helps persons with disabilities find fulfilment through employment. by Kristin Ostensen
Did you know that you can find free back issues of Salvationist and Faith & Friends magazines at the issuu.com/salvationist website? Catch up on all the Salvation Army news and features on your tablet or desktop. Also available on the Territorial Archives section of Salvationist.ca is a searchable record of every War Cry dating back to 1884. Visit salvationist.ca/ archives-and-museum. On the cover: Kathryn and Kyle Higgins star in Skeleton Army; photo by Neil Leduke
Read and share it! Past as Prologue
FROZEN 2 P.14
Belleville’s Warm Room
ARMY ASSISTANCE P.26
Emily Ann Roberts
VOICE LESSONS P.5
Faith&Friends I N S P I R AT I O N F O R L I V I N G
faithandfriends.ca
NOVEMBER 2019
21 Gifts of Hope New items available in ethical giving catalogue. by Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray
22 Full Speed Ahead 21
Task force makes gender equity within officership an international priority. by Commissioner Mark Tillsley
Faith on High
RETIRED SALVATION ARMY PASTOR HARRY READ PARACHUTED INTO NORMANDY (AGAIN!) FOR A CAUSE AND A CALLING P.16
Salvationist November 2019 3
EDITORIAL
I New York
S
“
tart spreadin’ the news, I’m leavin’ today; I want to be a part of it: New York, New York.…” Frank Sinatra’s catchy lyrics were rattling around in my head as our plane touched down at LaGuardia Airport in New York City. We were in the Big Apple for Skeleton Army, a new musical based on an original concept by Neil Leduke and scored by Major Len Ballantine, two Canadians who were on hand for the off-Broadway debut. The story tells of the early-day clashes between the Skeleton Army gangs and The Salvation Army, with compelling performances by Canadian actors Kathyrn and Kyle Higgins (page 12). During my visit, I soon discovered that The Salvation Army is embedded in the very heart of this city. At the 9/11 museum, I paused to contemplate photos of Salvationists who provided relief to first responders during those tragic events. At the Metropolitan Museum of Art, a room-sized mural entitled America Today (1930-31) by Thomas Hart Benton depicts Salvationists wooing the crowds in an open-air meeting during the prohibition era. The Ellis Island museum, in the shadow of the Statue of Liberty, includes images of Salvation Army officers welcoming new immigrants as they disembarked and prepared for a new life in America.
Salvationist
is a monthly publication of The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory Brian Peddle General Commissioner Floyd Tidd Territorial Commander Lt-Colonel John P. Murray Secretary for Communications Geoff Moulton Editor-in-Chief and Literary Secretary Giselle Randall Features Editor (416-467-3185) Pamela Richardson News Editor, Copy Editor and Production Co-ordinator (416-422-6112) Kristin Ostensen Associate Editor and Staff Writer 4 November 2019 Salvationist
Our influence there is not just historical. Did you know that The Salvation Army also has a presence at the United Nations? Colonels Richard and Janet Munn head up the International Social Justice Commission, a think tank designed to develop Christian responses to global issues, including human trafficking, poverty and the environment. The Munns were on hand for the Skeleton Army première at the Army’s Theatre 315 near Times Square. Read Colonel Richard Munn’s review on page 13. Elsewhere in this issue of Salvationist, you’ll find a heartbreaking article on Nancy Hicks, a former Salvationist whose family suffered unimaginable grief when their son was abused at the hands of a youth pastor. Learn how they discovered justice and healing, and how congregations can take action to help prevent abuse in the future (page 14). We also feature Lawson Ministries in Hamilton, Ont., where people with disabilities are finding the support they need to gain fulfilling employment (page 18). Commissioner Mark Tillsley, international secretary for the Americas and Caribbean, reports on the progress being made on gender equity (page 22). And you’ll be thrilled to see the 28 new cadets from the Messengers of Grace
Brandon Laird Senior Graphic Designer Hannah Saley Digital Media Specialist Ada Leung Circulation Co-ordinator Ken Ramstead Contributor Agreement No. 40064794, ISSN 1718-5769. Member, The Canadian Christian Communicators Association. All Scripture references from the Holy Bible, New International Version (NIV) © 2011. All articles are copyright The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory and can be reprinted only with written permission.
Session and three new auxiliary-captains as they march into the College for Officer Training (page 8). Thankfully, the “skeletons” we are fighting today are not the flesh-and-blood type, but there are still battles to be won to defeat the powers of sin and darkness. Watch for performances of Skeleton Army north of the border. I have a feeling it’s going to spread much further than just New York … because if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere. GEOFF MOULTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
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Mission
The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world. Salvationist informs readers about the mission and ministry of The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda. salvationist.ca facebook.com/salvationistmagazine twitter.com/salvationist youtube.com/salvationistmagazine instagram.com/salvationistmagazine
FRONTLINES
Army Hosts Celebration of Culture Weekend
T
he Salvation Army held its third annual Celebration of Culture gathering in August at Pine Lake Camp, Alta. Hosted in partnership with Indigenous Pathways, this three-day event brought together Indigenous followers of Jesus, Salvationists and others who wanted to share together in learning more about Indigenous cultures, values and traditions, in order to enrich and deepen their understanding and experience of faith. This year, the theme of the weekend was Walking Together in Truth, a statement of the willingness of The Salvation Army to be a part of the journey of reconciliation, and the importance of recognizing and celebrating Indigenous cultures. Throughout the weekend, attendees took part in traditional Indigenous teachings with workshops and worship sessions, sweat lodges, tipi building and a traditional pow wow—the special event of the weekend. This year’s pow wow, which was open to the general public, featured two drum circles. The host drum was Sorrell Rider and the other drum group, under the leadership of Jonathan Maracle, who was also the musical guest for the weekend, included young people who sang and drummed for the first time. Many dancers representing First Nations from across the region came to join in the celebration as well. “I appreciate what’s happening here today,” said Vincent Yellow Old Woman, Tribal Councillor at Siksika Nation, and master of ceremonies at the pow wow. “I thank The Salvation Army. I want to take my hat off to them for stepping up to the plate and saying we recognize, not necessarily saying we were wrong or we’re sorry, but recognizing what this is: It’s an opportunity to come together, and when we talk together we appreciate what we’re hearing and what we understand from each other.” “This is hugely important,” added Terry LeBlanc, executive director of Indigenous Pathways. “If we are going to talk about reconciliation, we have to talk about understanding one another differently than we have ever done before. Participation in this activity, and The Salvation Army and Indigenous Pathways working together, makes such a big impact. We’re really proud to be here and are looking forward to year four.”
The Celebration of Culture is part of the Army’s commitment to build a stronger relationship with Indigenous peoples and is a response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action. This event was envisioned to bring together Indigenous leadership and to help facilitate understanding as we embark on the journey to reconciliation. “I think there was a great spirit at the Celebration of Culture,” says Colonel Edward Hill, chief secretary. “There was a lot of enthusiasm and a real desire to learn, to educate and be educated.” “As Indigenous Salvationists gathered to vision together, the one thing that came through was a desire for celebration,” says Major Shari Russell, territorial Indigenous ministries consultant. “Celebrating who we are as Indigenous peoples, celebrating who we are as Salvationists within The Salvation Army, and being able to bring those two together.”
Colonel Edward Hill; Cpt Crystal Porter, DYS, Prairie Div; Mjr Shari Russell; and Colonel Shelley Hill, TSWM, gather by a tipi A traditional pow wow is the highlight of the Celebration of Culture weekend. One of the dancers is Dr. Casey Church (Pokagon Band Potawatomi), director of Wiconi International
Charles Woods (Siksika Nation) shares a dance at the pow wow
Salvationist November 2019 5
FRONTLINES
Territorial Music School Encourages Youth
The massed chorus performs at the final program
F
ifty years ago, 113 students gathered at Jackson’s Point Camp, Ont., for the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s first National Music Camp. Now called Territorial Music School (TMS), the camp still plays an important role in the life of the territory, as youth gather each year to improve their musical skills, develop friendships and deepen their faith. This year was no exception as 118 students attended the camp in August, coming from corps across the territory, as well as Hong Kong, Chile, France, Australia, the United Kingdom and Sri Lanka. Neil Smith, territorial music secretary, U.S.A. Western Territory, and bandmaster, U.S.A. Western Territory Staff Band, was the special guest at this year’s TMS. Along with leading the A Band, Smith also played soprano cornet in a regular band and piano for a mixed chorus. The Bible program this year was based on the theme “This Is My Story” and featured different guest speakers each day. “I wanted to be sure that when each student returned home from TMS, they would know that no matter their story, they have a God who will walk the entire The front-row cornets of the Norman Bearcroft Band
6 November 2019 Salvationist
journey with them,” explains Craig Lewis, territorial secretary for music and gospel arts. A highlight of the camp was an open Alumni Day, which saw 80 former students gather to make music in a band and mixed chorus, culminating in an evening program featuring these groups. Leadership was shared by alumni and current leaders, with Lewis and Kevin Hayward (former bandmaster, Canadian Staff Band) leading the band, and Lynn Janes and Heather Osmond leading the chorus. Robert Miller (euphonium) and Janes (vocal) offered solos, while Serena Fairweather led the alumni timbrels. Tim Braund, who was a student at the very first National Music Camp and spent more than 20 years as a student and faculty member, offered a reflection on the influence and legacy of the camp. A special announcement was made at the alumni program that, going forward, the regular bands and mixed choruses will have permanent names honouring territorial music secretaries who have played a significant role in the history of the camp. Those being honoured include Norman Bearcroft, Brian Burditt and Robert Redhead (band), and Leonard
Ballantine, Kevin Metcalf and Kenneth Rawlins (chorus). Music leaders from around the territory led TMS’s three streams—brass band, chorus and worship team. Ron Heintzman (Meadowlands Corps, Hamilton, Ont.), John Lam (London Citadel, Ont.; bandmaster, Canadian Staff Band) and Marcus Venables (Toronto’s North York Temple; territorial music and gospel arts department) helmed the bands. Susan Kroeker (Calgary’s Glenmore Temple) and Heather Osmond (Toronto’s Cedarbrae Community Church; territorial music and gospel arts department) led the Women’s Chorus and the A Chorus, respectively, while the worship teams were led by Lori and Dave Wilson (Richmond Hill Community Church, Ont.) and Laura Rowsell (Glenmore Temple) with Meghan Gough (Mississauga Temple Community Church, Ont.). All of the groups had an opportunity to shine and share what they had learned at TMS at the final program, held at Toronto’s Scarborough Citadel. As the massed chorus concluded the program with Go With God, all those in attendance left TMS spiritually refreshed. Robyn Purcell (Montreal Citadel) and Julianna Gerard (Oshawa Temple, Ont.) sing with the Worship Team elective
FRONTLINES
Church Plant Officially Opens in Burnaby
T
he Salvation Army in Burnaby, B.C., celebrated the official opening of Harvest Community Church in September on the one-year anniversary of the church plant’s soft launch. Nearly 100 church members, volunteers and friends packed the sanctuary at the corps as Lt-Colonel Jamie Braund, divisional commander, British Columbia Division, led the installation service. Major David Macpherson, area commander, British Columbia Division, and officers and leaders from other local Salvation Army corps also attended. Lt-Colonel Braund dedicated the official corps flag, which was carried by Don Poaps, a faithful senior soldier and volunteer at Harvest. Before joining Harvest, Poaps had been a member of Metrotown Citadel, the corps that was previously located in the building which is now occupied by the church plant. Additional highlights from the service included the enrolment of four junior soldiers and a musical presentation of Jesus Is My Superhero by a group of children who participated in Harvest’s summer vacation Bible school. “The whole focus of the service was joy,” says Lieutenant Lorri-Anne Mitchell, corps officer. “We felt God saying that what we’re seeing is the first fruits—but this isn’t yet the harvest. So we’re really excited to see what God will continue to do in this place.”
Lt-Col Jamie Braund dedicates the corps flag for Harvest CC
Army Leaders Invited to Queen’s Park
R
epresentatives of The Salvation Army attended a reception given by Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell at Queen’s Park in Toronto in September. The reception, which was held to recognize organizations that have sponsored and supported refugees in Ontario, brought together various organizations, many of which are faith-based. At the reception, the lieutenant governor spoke about why this work is important to her personally and expressed thanks to all the organizations that are helping refugees in the province. Commissioner Susan McMillan, then territorial commander, and Major Rob Kerr, divisional secretary for public relations, Ontario Central-East Division, attended the reception, along with Major James Mercer, corps officer at Ottawa’s Barrhaven Church, which recently sponsored a refugee family to come to Canada. When Lieutenant Governor Dowdeswell met the Army’s representatives at the reception and heard about the Army’s work in this area, Major Mercer took the opportunity to show her a photo of that sponsored family. “It’s important for The Salvation Army to be involved in this work, helping immigrants and refugees as best as we can,” says Major Kerr. “To be recognized by the lieutenant governor for the small part that we do is encouraging.”
Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell meets, from left, Mjr Rob Kerr, Mjr James Mercer and Commissioner Susan McMillan
Salvationist November 2019 7
Photos: Symon Ptashnick
Messengers of Grace, Messengers of the Kingdom, auxiliarycaptains, training college staff and territorial leaders
Messengers of Grace Welcomed
Twenty-eight cadets enter the College for Officer Training, the most in 15 years. BY GEOFF MOULTON
Commissioner Susan McMillan delivers the message that “grace is for everyone”
Cdt Jory Hewson carries the Messengers of Grace sessional flag
Mjr Andrew Morgan, training principal, introduces the cadets
A worship team comprised of cadets sings Your Grace is Enough
Aux-Cpt Charles Okongo with his wife
Cdt Amy Patrick testifies about her calling to officership
8 November 2019 Salvationist
O
n September 15, the College for Officer Training (CFOT) welcomed 28 new cadets in the Messengers of Grace Session—the largest session in 15 years. At Elim Chapel in Winnipeg, Major Elizabeth Nelson, assistant training principal, introduced the territory’s newest leaders-in-training, including the Messengers of Grace—both the residential and field-based tailored-training cadets—and three newly accepted auxiliary-captains. To the strains of God’s Children as played by Heritage Park Temple Band (BM Jim Moulton), the cadets marched up the aisle, saluted Commissioner Susan McMillan, then territorial commander, and joined the second-year Messengers of the Kingdom on the platform as the congregation clapped along enthusiastically. Colonel Edward Hill, chief secretary, commended the new recruits. “We now entrust the cadets to CFOT for training, knowing that you are going to invest mightily in them,” he said. “We are encouraged by a full CFOT, but we pray for even greater numbers as we seek to fulfil the Great Commission and the mission of the Army.” Major Andrew Morgan, training principal, then presented the 31 leaders-in-training to the congregation. “I want to express thanks to the corps that have nurtured these good soldiers and Cdts April Barthau and Marco Herrera Lopizic previously served in Papua New Guinea
Cdts Beverly and John Burton, with their daughter
released them for officer training.” He also acknowledged the faithful leadership of Major Jennifer Hale, secretary for candidates, whose vision a year ago for 30 new leaders-in-training has been fulfilled. The training principal went on to highlight the varied background of the cadets, including a nurse, doctor, funeral director and geoscientist. “We have individuals in the training college with a depth of spiritual maturity, a commitment to Jesus Christ and an obedience to the call,” noted Major Morgan. “We undertake to develop these cadets into officers of blood-and-fire spirit so that they can advance the gospel of Jesus Christ.” The cadet chorus shared their energetic sessional song, Messengers of Grace, composed by Lee Fischer and conducted by Donna Lee Samson: “Messengers of
Grace … saved by grace through faith and not by our own endeavour, made alive with Christ to receive his boundless treasure.” Commissioner McMillan dedicated the sessional flag, noting: “This banner represents God’s extreme love for us: the red represents the blood of Jesus shed on the cross, the blue is the purity and holiness of God, and the yellow star is the fire of the Holy Spirit. I pray that the cadets will bring that same extreme love to the world.” She then presented “warrants” to each of the three auxiliarycaptains, appointing them as officers in The Salvation Army. Cadet Amy Patrick testified about growing up attending The Salvation Army: “I saw the significance of a life with Jesus and knew it was something I wanted to be a part of.” Inspired by her grandparents’ overseas service, Cadet Cdts Amanda and Jeremy Thompson with their daughters
Cdts Brent and Amber Wareham and family salute the commissioner
Salvationist November 2019 9
Patrick described how a mission trip to Sri Lanka was instrumental in her journey to officership. Aux-Captain Charles Okongo also spoke on behalf of his fellow leaders-intraining, sharing how he came to Canada from Uganda with his family nearly five years ago. It was an Officership Information Weekend in 2018 that helped confirm his calling. Major Darlene Morgan, director of spiritual formation, noted that a time of prayer was held during the morning’s family meeting at CFOT for the cadets and auxiliary-captains. Prayer cards were then distributed during the offering, extending the invitation to the congregation to remember the cadets on an ongoing basis. A special time of recognition acknowledged Commissioner McMillan for her five years as territorial commander. A video of appreciation from Salvationists from around the territory—including the commissioner’s parents, Majors Donald and Dorothy McMillan—was shown to the delight of the congregation, who gave the commissioner a standing ovation. Major Andrew Morgan observed that the territorial commander has commissioned 84 officers during her tenure, as well as inspired the current complement of 48 cadets and auxiliary-captains.
In preparation for the sermon, international guest Colonel Deborah Cachelin, territorial president for women’s ministries and territorial secretary of officer training and development, Germany, Lithuania and Poland Territory, led the congregation in a time of prayer and reflection. Colonel Cachelin was in attendance to support Cadet Tina Jatzkowski of Dresden Corps, Germany, who will be training in Canada with the current session. In her message, Commissioner McMillan reflected on Romans 15, noting that grace is for everyone. Addressing the cadets, she said, “Grace is when God is willing to give us something that we
do not deserve, something we have not earned…. I hope you understand your calling and eventual commissioning as an act of grace.” Turning to the congregation, she urged, “Our corps should be places where all people can come and feel safe and loved and welcome…. Our duty is to reach the lost, the outcasts. Our responsibility is to show God’s wonderful grace that reaches out to everyone.” After a time of dedication at the mercy seat, Major Shawn Critch, divisional commander, Prairie Division, pronounced the benediction and the congregation was invited to CFOT for a time of fellowship and refreshment.
Mjrs Andrew and Darlene Morgan, Col Deborah Cachelin, Commissioner Susan McMillan, Cdt Tina Jatzkowski, Col Edward Hill and Cdt Brandon Keeping
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14TH AT 7:30 PM
ROY THOMSON HALL - 60 SIMCOE ST., TORONTO TICKETS @ CWTSA.CA / 416.872.4255
CHRISTMAS WITH THE SALVATION ARMY
KIRA BRAUN & DUNCAN HOPKINS TRIO
FEATURING: DRAMATIST, COLIN FOX - ORGANIST, IAN SADLER - THE FESTIVAL CHORUS THE SALVATION ARMY‘S CANADIAN STAFF BAND & CANADIAN STAFF SONGSTERS ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, MAJOR LEN BALLANTINE
10 November 2019 Salvationist
CHIEF PRIORITIES
In Living Memory Remembering the sacrifices for our freedom. BY COLONEL EDWARD HILL
Photo: JohnnyGreig/E+ via Getty Images
W
hen my wife, Shelley, and I arrived in the Canada and Bermuda Territory just over a year ago, our second Sunday fell on Armistice Day, November 11, 2018—the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. At the corps we were visiting, a military cadet and senior soldier came down the aisle carrying a wreath, while The Last Post played. It was a solemn occasion and we were all standing at attention, except for one boy in the front row. While he was not a distraction, he certainly caught my eye. Why wasn’t he standing like the rest of us? During a pause in the ceremony, as the wreath was laid on the altar, I noticed a girl—almost certainly his older sister—come down the aisle and whisper something in the boy’s ear. He stood up immediately. I imagine she whispered something like this: “Mom says if you don’t stand up right now, you’ll be in huge trouble when we get home!” If so, he certainly got the message. I don’t blame the boy for not standing up initially. He either didn’t know better or maybe he just plain forgot. The truth is that we all need to be reminded of important truths from time to time. This Remembrance Day, let’s reflect upon the sacrifice made by so many to preserve the freedoms that often we take for granted. Let’s also bring to mind the spiritual blessings God abundantly shares with us. In 2 Timothy 2:8-9, the Apostle Paul declares, “Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel, for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God’s Word is not chained.” What are Christians to remember on Remembrance Day?
chained in prison and therefore constrained from preaching. However, the Word of God cannot be held back. God will always find a way to declare his power and presence to the world.
We remember that we have the gospel. The message that we proclaim is positive, powerful and optimistic. In a world full of bad news, Christians have the privilege of sharing good news. In 1 Corinthians 15:1, Paul writes, “And now I want to remind you, my friends, of the good news which I preached to you, which you received, and on which your faith stands firm” (GNT).
Last year, my wife and I travelled to Vietnam, including a trip to the city of Ho Chi Minh, named for the Communist dictator who brutally led his country for decades. We walked by the massive mausoleum where his body is interred. Thousands line up every day to look at the remains of a leader promoted by the state to have almost godlike qualities. As we went in to one of the shops just a short distance from the mausoleum, we were greeted with music that I did not expect to hear in an officially atheist country. It was a recording of the Christmas carol, Silent Night. The music and words were good news: “Silent night! Holy night! All is calm, all is bright round yon virgin mother and child. Holy infant, so tender and mild, sleep in heavenly peace. Sleep in heavenly peace.” It was a remarkable moment. In the shadow of the revered dictator’s grave, the Lord found a way to remind the listener of the true King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The Word of God cannot be chained. In a season set aside for remembrance, let’s not forget these important truths from 2 Timothy: We serve a risen Saviour. He relates to our daily experience. We share good news with the world. And God will always find a way for his Word to be declared, most often through his people. These are all truths worth remembering during this season and beyond.
Finally, we remember that the Word of God cannot be chained. Paul was
Colonel Edward Hill is the chief secretary in the Canada and Bermuda Territory.
First, we remember that Jesus is risen from the dead. We know the Resurrection is a historical event from some 2,000 years ago. However, it’s noteworthy that the tense of the Greek in the verse frames the Resurrection as a present reality. Indeed, the crucified and risen Christ is with us today. We serve a risen Saviour. We remember that Jesus Christ was born of the seed of David. The fourth doctrine of The Salvation Army declares that Jesus “is truly and properly God and truly and properly man.” And because Jesus was fully human, he has the unique ability to relate to the daily challenges that come our way. That ought to be reason for comfort.
Salvationist November 2019 11
Skeleton Army Debuts Off-Broadway New Salvation Army musical, conceived and performed by Canadians, captivates audiences at Theatre 315 in New York City.
A
BY GEOFF MOULTON
Salvation Army officer tortured by the demons of his past finds assurance that God’s plan reaches even the deepest caverns of darkest England. On the poverty-stricken East London streets of Victorian England two armies line up for battle. The Skeletons fight for the comforts of the present. The Salvationists fight for the hope of tomorrow. Caught in the middle, Charles Jeffries, a charismatic young leader of the Skeleton Army, must decide what side he really is on.
Blood and Thunder When The Salvation Army began in London, England, opposition movements arose among the working class who objected to the Army’s teetotaling stance. Originally known as “The Unconverted Army,” the Skeletons first 12 November 2019 Salvationist
Photo: Neil Leduke
So begins the newest Salvation Army musical, Skeleton Army, which premièred off-Broadway on August 29 at the Armyowned Theatre 315 in New York City. The two-actor show depicts clashes between early-day Salvationists and the notorious Skeleton Army in London’s East End. Kyle Higgins stars as Charles Jeffries, leader of the Skeleton Army, and Kathryn Higgins plays three roles: a barmaid in the Blind Beggar pub, the Salvation Army officer at Whitechapel Road who helps set Jeffries on a new path, and Jeffries’ wife. With music and lyrics by Canadian Staff Songster Leader Major Len Ballantine and based on a book by John Copeland, the musical was directed by Brad Cain, produced by Carol Jaudes and originally conceived by Neil Leduke, interim national director of marketing for The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda. This team worked in close collaboration with The Salvation Army U.S.A. East Arts Ministries Bureau, headed by Kathyrn Higgins, daughter of Major Ballantine, to bring this true story to life (see sidebar review by Colonel Richard Munn).
Kyle and Kathryn Higgins star as Charles Jeffries and the Whitechapel officer who helped set him on a new path
arose in Whitechapel in 1881, the setting of the musical. They later spread to Exeter, Weston-super-Mare and other southern towns. The confrontations between the Skeletons and The Salvation Army often resulted in open rioting. They pelted Salvationists at open-air meetings with flour, dead rats, rotten eggs, stones and brick bats. They shouted down Salvationist preachers and banged pots and pans to drown out the Army brass. As confrontations escalated, many Salvationists were beaten or even killed. In April 1884, when the owner of an alcohol shop in Worthing, England, raised objections to the Army’s marches, a group of more than 4,000 Skeletons assembled to oppose Salvationists. General William Booth requested protection from
police, but he was turned down. He told Salvationists to march on Sunday anyway and the Skeletons chased them back to their “barracks” and almost burned it down. The Skeleton Army mocked the symbolism of The Salvation Army, exchanging “soup, soap and salvation” for “beef, beer and bacca.” Skeletons also used banners with skulls and crossbones with the motto “Blood and Thunder” (satirizing The Salvation Army’s war cry “Blood and Fire”). They wore red bands on their caps with the moniker “Skeleton Army” and even sold their own copies of a Skeleton War Cry. Transformed at Whitechapel Charles Jeffries, the musical’s main character, at 16 was employed by a tobacconist’s firm and was the second-in-command of the Whitechapel Skeleton Army. Jeffries
accepted Christ at a watch-night meeting in Whitechapel that he had come to disrupt, became an active soldier and was himself the victim of many attacks by his old colleagues. The musical focuses mainly on these early encounters, but his influence in the wake of his conversion was nearly as dramatic. After Jeffries became an officer in 1882, he was sent to Penzance, England, where he converted more than 300 people and appeared before the magistrate seven times for preaching in the streets. In 1884, he helped pioneer the Army’s work in Australia and was imprisoned in Sydney for seven days for preaching outdoors. He was instrumental in opening 12 new corps, establishing rescue homes and commencing the social work in Adelaide and Melbourne. Jeffries married Captain Martha Harris and together they had seven children. Returning to England, he was appointed as provincial commander for Wales and North West of England before serving as field secretary, overseeing the appointments of more than 2,000 officers. He also spent a year in China, pioneering the Army’s presence there in 1918. As British commissioner from 1931 to 1935, Jeffries was one of the seven leaders involved in the Army’s first High Council before being promoted to glory in 1936. Birth of a Musical During a Q&A at the musical’s première, Leduke recalled stumbling across the story of Charles Jeffries and the Skeleton Army in Salvation Army history books in 2009. “As I did more research, I realized this is a story that needs to be told. It’s a power-
ful story of redemption, of someone’s life being completely transformed by God and The Salvation Army.” Composer Major Ballantine noted a unique twist in this transformation story: “It’s about the way God uses exactly who you are, the strengths that you have; it shows how God can use all of your past circumstances, even if they are nasty, for his glory if we surrender to him.” Director Brad Cain agreed, noting the symbolism in the box of memories that Charles and Martha Jeffries unpack together over the course of the musical: “Everyone has a different story, but God will use the moments in your life to transform you as well.” “It seemed like an impossible task, to write a show about two gangs, essentially,” said Kathryn Higgins. “The thing that we learned in the rehearsal process was that the third actor is the audience. We needed that give-and-take from the crowd, which made it feel like we had another 50 people in the show.” Writer John Copeland recalled how God had put it on his heart to write a musical and it was confirmed the very next day by Kathryn Higgins who called him seeking a performance piece. “I thought of the story of Charles and realized that the change in our lives pre- and post-conversion is just as epic. God will take everything that you bring to him—bad decisions, fears, mistakes—and he will redeem all of that with new life.” Skeleton Army appeared at The Salvation Army’s Theater 315 at the end of August for a limited run. Watch for future performances of Skeleton Army in the Canada and Bermuda Territory.
From left, Kyle and Kathryn Higgins, Brad Cain, John Copeland, Mjr Len Ballantine, Neil Leduke and Carol Jaudes at the première
Skeleton Army: A Review by Colonel Richard Munn, director, International Social Justice Commission
Skeleton Army, an 80-minute oneact production, is the story of swashbuckling Charles Jeffries, onetime thuggish leader of the Skeleton Army and tormentor of early day Salvationists in London’s East End, who eventually becomes a pioneer officer to Australia, China and the International Training College. This is a two-actor show, from beginning to end—Jeffries interacting and interweaving with saucy barmaid, Scarlett, in the notorious Blind Beggar pub and then with the undaunted, unnamed heroic woman officer assigned to Whitechapel Road. Think Bill Sikes and Nancy of the Oliver musical mixed with Sky Masterton and Sister Sarah of Guys and Dolls. Stellar husband and wife team Kathryn and Kyle Higgins gripped the audience from beginning to end with flawless performances— poignant, witty, subtle and evocative. You must have a heart of stone not to be moved at their interplay. The actors do a great job of engaging the audience, bringing them into the story as customers at the pub and congregants at Whitechapel. Scarlett is intrigued by these drum-banging, flag-waving, oddly uniformed enthusiasts. She goes along out of curiosity, and is touched by love. Jeffries is incensed, proving once again that the people often enraged by the gospel eventually become its great heroes.
Photo: Geoff Moulton
In the end, Jeffries moves from menacing coiled rage to clean inner strength. The closing song says it well: Because of these moments, and thanks to God’s grace, My life has had meaning and purpose and place. Because of the hours I’ve spent on my knees, He will lead where he needs me to be. Hearty congratulations to the actors, creators and hosts. Here is something extra special that is well worth your time and attention. Salvationist November 2019 13
A Horrifying Truth When their son was sexually abused, the Hicks family searched for justice and healing.
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BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN
ancy Hicks and her husband, Cam, were just climbing into bed when the phone rang. It was around 11 p.m. on the last Saturday in May 2013. Their two sons had just come home from college. They had good summer jobs lined up, and were looking forward to spending time with friends and family before resuming their studies in the fall. But with that phone call, everything changed. “There was a distressed voice on the other end of the line,” says Nancy, “and when Cam hung up, he said, ‘We’ve got to go.’ ” The call came from a couple at their church who were close friends. When the Hickses arrived at their friends’ house a few minutes later, the mother’s face was streaked with tears. “She looked at us and said, ‘The truth will set us free,’ ” Nancy recalls. “And I remember thinking, What truth are we talking about here?” Devastated and Shocked Until recently, speaking out about sexual abuse—especially in the church—was rare. Even today, only about five percent of sexual assaults are reported to police. But thanks to movements such as #MeToo and #ChurchToo, more survivors are finding it possible to share their stories. Tragically, there are many survivors—about one in three women and one in six men will experience some form of sexual violence in their lifetime. As the Hicks family learned in 2013, no one is immune from sexual abuse—not even a tight-knit Christian family like their own. Nancy and Cam are lifelong Christians—Nancy grew up at Toronto’s Yorkminster Citadel, while Cam is from London Citadel, Ont.—and they’ve been leaders in the church since they were teenagers. They now live in Philadelphia and attend a non-denominational church where Nancy is head of outreach and evangelism and Cam serves as a senior elder. The couple who called them over that night in May were also leaders at their church. The news they had to share with Nancy and Cam was terrible. “What 14 November 2019 Salvationist
Cam and Nancy Hicks grew up in Ontario and were married in 1981
came out that night was that a long-time youth worker at the church, a person who had become like part of our family, was actually a sexual predator and had been preying on their son and our younger son, Aaron, for five years,” Nancy says. “We were devastated and shocked.” After the couple shared the horrifying truth, the four parents took time to pray. “I knelt on the floor and for some time, I just listened. Listened to the cries for help. Listened to the anguish. Listened to the Holy Spirit in my soul,” Nancy recalls. “Then, as if a dam burst, I wailed,
‘I trusted you!’ I kept repeating that. And then I sobbed and said, ‘I trust you still.’ It was a declaration.” The Hicks family talked late into the night, as Aaron shared the whole story of what had happened. As they wept together and held each other in the kitchen back at their home, the older son, David, who was the first to discover that the abuse had been happening, tried to offer his parents some consolation: “Mom and Dad,” he told them, “this is not your fault.” In response, Cam turned to Aaron
and said, “I am so sorry I didn’t protect you. But I’m going to protect you now.” Seeking Justice The next morning, the Hickses called a close friend, a lawyer-turned-counsellor who leads a ministry to pastors and leaders. With his guidance, they phoned the police and started the process of bringing the youth worker to justice. “We spent the entire summer and the fall working with the police to get all the evidence that we needed so that he could be arrested,” Nancy says. For David and Aaron, this process included gathering all written communication with him, such as emails and text messages, from the past five years, and meeting him in person while wearing a wire in order to get information on record—all without letting on that any investigation was happening. “These kids were unbelievably brave,” Nancy reflects. In the end, the youth worker was convicted of his crimes and sentenced to a minimum of 12 years in prison. While the Hickses’ experience with the legal system resulted in justice, their experience with the church was mixed. When the abuse allegations were first brought to their church’s leaders, the Hickses were disappointed by what they learned. “We were pretty angry because as we told different leaders, people would say things like, ‘I’m not surprised,’ ” Nancy shares. “We found out that people had suspicions about these things happening, but they didn’t do anything, they didn’t say anything.” As the investigation proceeded, further stories of the youth worker’s abusive behaviour came out, and a third survivor was added to the criminal case. However, no red flags had ever been logged. For Nancy, this was an area where the church let their family and the other survivors down. “We don’t want to villainize people— we have to be careful—but at the same time, instances of inappropriate behaviour should be logged. Because they may seem like isolated incidents, but when you put them all together, it’s like, ‘Wait a minute.’ ” The social worker who was assigned their case told the Hicks family that the church is one of the worst places for predatory behaviour. “She said, ‘It’s because you Christians are so naïve. You want to believe the best about people.’ And we do, right?” Nancy says.
Her son’s experience underscores the need for churches to have robust policies and procedures in place, to prevent abuse from happening and to properly address abuse if it does occur (see page 16). The Hickses’ church apologized to the survivors for the abuse, but it wasn’t until a new senior pastor came to the church two years later that the congregation truly began to reckon with what had happened. Under the new pastor’s leadership, the church launched a full investigation and brought in Dan Allender, a wellknown Christian therapist who focuses on sexual abuse and trauma recovery, to lead a conference and educate the congregation. “Our pastor really wanted to face it head on and that was, for us, one of the most healing things that was done in the church,” says Nancy.
Not Going Under From that moment of desperate prayer when she declared her trust in God, Nancy says she felt his presence with her through the whole ordeal. “God was kind in giving us another couple to walk the journey with and to fight with,” she says. “There were few people we could tell while we were working with the police, but there was a handful of people that we walked with, people who were wise and held us in prayer.” That’s not to say that she didn’t face times of deep grief and discouragement. “I remember at one point lying on the couch, feeling like I’d been shot in the head, but thinking, I know this is the evil one and I’m getting up,” Nancy shares. “Catherine Booth once said, ‘The waters are rising, but so am I. I’m not going under, but over.’ And that’s how I feel,”
Recognizing the Grooming Process Grooming is a process that seeks to gain the trust of a child and their family or caregivers in order to facilitate abuse. Grooming typically consists of the following steps:
Build Trust and Break Down a Child’s Defences • Pretend to share common interests, backgrounds and experiences • Give gifts as tokens of friendship • Provide access to valuable items, privileges or activities that are typically unavailable or off limits to the child • Flatter and make the child feel special and somehow indebted • Offer a sympathetic and understanding ear (e.g., “No one understands you like I do”)
Reassure the Family • Build a relationship with the child’s parents or caregivers to gain trust • Behave in exemplary ways to alleviate concerns or possible suspicions
Gradually Erode Boundaries • Escalate inappropriate physical contact, such as: -- Hugging or touching nonthreatening areas of body
-- Pretending to accidentally touch or brush up against the child -- Positioning self in close proximity to the child (e.g., sleep in the same bed) -- Engaging the child in nonsexual inappropriate behaviours (e.g., drinking alcohol) -- Touching inappropriate areas of the child’s body
Create Secrecy with the Child • Make the child fearful that he or she will be in trouble if their activities together are discovered • Tell the child that touching between them is good because their relationship is special • Tell the child there will be consequences if he or she reports the sexual behaviour
Insist on Compliance • Escalate intrusiveness of sexual behaviours over time • Manipulate the child into performing or permitting sex acts • Threaten to harm the child or a person who is important to them if he or she does not comply Source: Office of the Territorial Abuse Advisor
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The Hicks family: Cam, Aaron, daughter-in-law, Rachel, Nancy and David
How Do We Create Safer Congregations? • Churches must develop and implement a policy related to abuse prevention and response. • Clear definitions of various types of abuse and related issues must be taught to all staff and volunteers. • All volunteers and paid employees—including clergy— who work with children, youth and/or vulnerable adults must be screened, including a police check. • All premises and buildings must be modified in order to assist in the prevention of abuse (e.g., windows in classrooms, adequate lighting, monitored ministry areas). • All staff and volunteers must receive ongoing training to prevent abuse, including guidelines for physical contact with children, the use of social media and how to interrupt concerning behaviour. If you suspect a child is being harmed, or has been harmed, you must report your concerns to the appropriate authorities, such as child protective services or the police. “Some think they need to determine if the alleged abuse is true before they call the authorities,” notes Nancy Turley, territorial abuse advisor. “However, that is not your responsibility. We are only asked to report our suspicions of abuse. Speak to a trusted leader for support as you make contact with the local authorities.” For more information about The Salvation Army’s policies and procedures concerning abuse, contact Nancy_Turley@can. salvationarmy.org. 16 November 2019 Salvationist
she continues. “As the kingdom of the evil one rises, so does the kingdom of God— we can’t ignore that there’s a war going on. This whole situation has caused our family to get stronger and more focused, to roll up our sleeves and say, ‘God, I’m all in. Use me to bring about the kingdom in our time.’ ” Still, as Nancy admits, an experience such as theirs could easily cause someone to walk away from the church. “Our children have not walked away, but they have rejected a brand of Christianity that was popular for a long time—inauthentic, glossy,” she says. “We don’t buy into the ‘put a smile on your face, claim a verse, you’re good’ kind of Christianity. We are very real about walking with God and what that looks like. This experience has strengthened us.” Some of those experiences and lessons are captured in Nancy’s new book, Meant to Live: Living in Light of the Good News, which encourages Christians to live in the power of the gospel (see below). “If the message in this book is not true in the hard times, the times of suffering, then it’s not true at all,” she says.
Run to God In the years since the abuse occurred, Nancy, who regularly speaks at conferences, retreats and churches around the world, has had various opportunities to share this part of her family’s story, knowing that a significant number of people in her audience may have experienced abuse themselves. To the survivors, she offers this advice: “The first thing to do is to run to God, pour your heart out to him about what has gone on and ask him for wisdom and strength,” Nancy says. “The next is to run to the people who are closest to you—godly, wise people—because you cannot do this alone.” And to parents who are coming to grips with the knowledge that their child has been abused: “It takes a lot of fortitude not to blame yourself,” Nancy says. “You have to nip that in the bud and say, ‘God, we failed and I confess that.’ But then you have to recognize, as the parent, that it is not about me; it’s about my child and bringing justice for the sake of the kingdom and for the sake of my child’s health. That’s the goal now.”
If the message of Christ is good news, why is the church in North America floundering in complacency, while facing accelerating decline? As Nancy Hicks, former QVC host and international speaker, writes, “It’s as though the gospel hasn’t quite gotten through.” In Meant to Live, Hicks encourages Christians to “snap out of it” and remember that they are called by God to live a glorious life. She unpacks four “camps” she sees many Christians fall into, evaluating each camp’s strengths and weaknesses and correcting their false beliefs with biblical teaching. Filled with personal stories from Hicks’ life and ministry, Meant to Live is an invitation to become fully alive again in Jesus Christ. Learn more about Meant to Live at nancyhickslive.com.
VIEWPOINT
All Creatures Great and Small Caring for animals is part of caring for creation. BY DARRYN OLDFORD
Photo: FarAway/iStock via Getty Images
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’ve always been fascinated by the size, strength and intelligence of elephants. They are beautiful creatures with complex social lives, regularly observed grieving the loss or death of others in the herd. I’ve had two experiences with elephants in their country of origin, and the difference between them helped shape my perspective on animal rights. In Thailand, my encounter with an elephant broke my heart. The last thing I expected to see when looking out the window of a McDonald’s was an elephant. I later learned it’s not uncommon to spot elephants on the streets of Bangkok, particularly in tourist areas. I sat quietly and watched as an elephant wrangler paraded his poor creature, asking tourists for “donations” to feed her or take a photo with her. Some were happy to oblige. I had never seen a skinny elephant before, her ribs clearly visible beneath her tough hide. What really got me, though, was the sadness in her eyes and the way she moved; a jungle animal trapped in a city, solely to make its owner as much money as possible. It should be noted that there are several organizations in Thailand doing amazing work in animal protection and conservation. Unfortunately, those who don’t care about their animals are more visible, because they allow easy photo ops for social media. Kenya, like many sub-Saharan African nations, is dealing with a poaching crisis. Elephant tusks and rhino horns are still a valuable commodity on the international market. Despite the government’s efforts to crack down with stiff penalties— including the possibility of a life sentence in prison—many animals are still killed every year. While living in Kenya, I visited the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, an orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation program, in Nairobi National Park. These baby elephants had often, but not always, been orphaned as a result of poaching. Visitors to the program learn more about wildlife and the charity’s efforts, and can interact with the elephants during set
hours. I watched as the handlers bottlefed the calves with care and love that seemed to come from genuine affection. They respected these elephants and everything seemed designed to encourage their health and welfare. Not everyone has the means or opportunity to travel, but we may be able to see our favourite animal at a zoo or marine wildlife park. However, serious questions need to be asked before visiting. Who benefits from the animals being kept in captivity? Are these creatures better off than they would be in the wild, or are they simply a draw to bring in revenue? And if so, where is this money going—to conservation or profits for the owner? These questions cut to the heart of our humanity. Are we people of compassion and caring? Do we extend this to all of God’s creatures, great and small? In the creation account in Genesis, humans are given “dominion” over the earth (see Genesis 1:28 KJV ), a word best translated as “responsible stewardship.” It describes living with, working alongside and caring for those under your sovereignty. But too often, it has been
interpreted as “domination,” leading to the destruction of species and habitats, with the belief that God gave the world to us for our use. It’s true that this planet and its resources are a gift from God, but just as you wouldn’t unwrap a hand-knit sweater from your grandmother on Christmas morning and then burn it in front of her, we shouldn’t destroy the beautiful home God made for us. Proverbs 12:10 says, “The righteous care for the needs of their animals.” Similarly, in Job 12:10, we are reminded that, “in [God’s] hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” Animals have intrinsic value as part of God’s creation and we should love them as he does. Adam’s first job was to name the animals and care for the Garden of Eden. As humans, we are called to be good stewards of the earth, including animals. Let’s make a conscious effort to only support people and places that benefit all creation. The elephants of the world will thank us. Darryn Oldford is a senior soldier in Toronto. Salvationist November 2019 17
“Stephen is a wonderful, hardworking guy,” says Theresa Speers, who helped Stephen find a job he enjoys at a grocery store in Hamilton, Ont.
18 November 2019 Salvationist
All in a Day ’s Work A Salvation Army program in Hamilton, Ont., helps persons with disabilities find fulfilment through employment. BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN
Photos: Kristin Ostensen
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n Canada, more than 6.2 million people aged 15 and older have one or more disabilities, representing 22 percent of the population. Yet, when it comes to the workforce, Canadians with disabilities are widely underrepresented. Among people of working age, only 59 percent of persons with disabilities are employed, compared to 80 percent of those without. The Salvation Army in Hamilton, Ont., is working to help close that gap through employment support services at Lawson Ministries. Funded through Ontario Disability Support Programs, the Army’s program takes a one-on-one approach, helping participants find a job through an individualized employment plan—a plan that focuses on ability, rather than disability. “Sometimes we get caught up on the disability and we lose looking at the person,” says Theresa Speers, employment support case manager, Lawson Ministries. “When someone comes in to our employment program for the first time, I ask them, ‘What are your skills?’ I look at it like a puzzle—we find out what their skills are and see how they all fit.”
detailed hands-on assessment with the job-seeker, to determine the person’s skills and abilities, and where additional support may be helpful. Often, these assessments are completed at a local Army thrift store. “We look at how a person responds when they receive a task to do,” Speers explains. “Does it have to be broken down into steps? Do they remember what the job is and what the tasks are? How fast can they complete the tasks? As well, is this person coming in on time? Are they reliable? Because being dependable is one of the most important things for any job you do.” She also works with participants on building their resumés. If a person hasn’t been employed, in school or doing volunteer work for six months, she connects them with volunteer opportunities, often
The Fantastic You The Salvation Army’s employment program has three phases: the pre-employment job-seeking stage, which varies in length depending on the participant; the initial employment stage, which covers the first 13 weeks on the job while the participant is on probation; and the stable employment stage, which offers the participant ongoing support for a further 33 months. On average, the Army has 10-15 clients in the job-seeking stage. As part of the intake process, Speers completes a
• The most common disability types were related to pain, flexibility, mobility and mental health.
partnering with the thrift stores and the local Booth Centre. Speers also assists participants with obtaining certificates as needed, such as food handling and Smart Serve. Once the resumé is ready, Speers helps with the application process and teaches participants strategies for meeting managers for the first time. “I call it ‘the fantastic you’—tell the manager three things that will wow them about you and tasks that you can do,” says Speers. For some clients, the first phase of the program can be a long process, but as Chaldhon can attest, it is worth it in the end when a job is obtained. He joined the Army’s program in May 2017, while he was also completing a course at Mohawk College that helps students with disabilities develop skills and gain work experience.
QUICK FACTS: Employment and Canadians With Disabilities • In 2017, one in five Canadians aged 15 years and older had one or more disabilities. • Women (24 percent) were more likely to have a disability than men (20 percent).
• Among working-age people with disabilities who were not employed or in school, two in five had potential to work, representing almost 645,000 people with disabilities. • Mental health-related disabilities were the most common type of
disability among people aged 15 to 24 years. • Working-age persons with disabilities (25 to 64 years) were less likely to be employed (59 percent) than those without disabilities (80 percent). • 76 percent of working-age people with mild disabilities were employed, while only 31 percent of those with very severe disabilities were employed. • Persons with more severe disabilities were more likely to be living in poverty than people without disabilities or with milder disabilities. Source: Statistics Canada Salvationist November 2019 19
“It was stressful not having a job for a couple of years,” he says. “But it was really nice when I finally overcame the challenge.” Chaldhon has been working at Tim Hortons since June. “Theresa put a lot of hard work into helping me get the job,” he says. “She stuck with me even when I struggled to get up and go to my appointments. She always encourages me to do well.”
An Accessible Army For Graham Moore, assistant chief secretary for organizational development, giving people with disabilities equal opportunity to access employment in The Salvation Army comes back to our values. “One of our core values is dignity, which means we recognize the worth of all people,” he says. “A disability should not stand in the way of someone participating in the mission of the Army.” What does that look like in the context of the workplace? It starts with advertising employment opportunities in an accessible manner. Once someone is hired, it means there is an official process for ensuring every employee gets the accommodations they need to be successful. It also means retrofitting our facilities, adding lifts and automatic doors, for example. Among current employees and volunteers, it means that the Army provides courses on disabilities, including mental health awareness, which are free to all ministry units. “To date, 9,000 individuals—officers, employees and volunteers— have taken e-courses related to accessibility,” shares Beverly Goulding, health and safety and workers’ compensation manager at territorial headquarters. The goal, ultimately, is not only to improve accessibility, but also to break down any stigmas that exist around disability. “As The Salvation Army, it’s part of who we are and why we exist,” says Moore. “We can still do better.” 20 November 2019 Salvationist
“Chaldhon is thrilled that he’s working now—it’s given him a purpose,” Speers reflects. “He kept saying to me, ‘Theresa, thank you for getting me this job.’ But I told him, ‘Chaldhon, you got yourself this job!’ ” Building Confidence Once a participant gains employment, Speers continues to offer support in the short and long term. Much of that support is practical and hands on. “I have a client who recently started his first job,” Speers shares. “He has a learning disability so I accompanied him on his first day to do on-site job coaching with him. He has had jobs before but has lost them because employers didn’t understand what his disability is and what he needed.” Along with practical assistance, Speers also provides emotional support to her clients. “There was one time where I was upset because of something going on at home,” recalls Chaldhon, who has mental health and developmental disabilities. “But Theresa told me, ‘You can do it. You can go to work—they are counting on you.’ And I did it and everybody loves me now. Theresa’s a good job coach and I like working with her.” Because the program takes a longterm approach to employment success, Speers keeps in touch with clients even after they’ve completed the program. Stephen is one of Lawson’s successful graduates. He first came to the employment program in September 2015. Originally from Hamilton, he had been living in Caledonia, Ont., where he was
employed. But when he moved back to the city, he wasn’t able to find a job again. “This program made finding a job easier,” Stephen says. “We made resumés and then handed them out to a bunch of places, including Freshco. I did a handson job interview and, a week later, I got hired and I’ve been there for three years.” Today, Stephen is happy and secure in his job at the store, and Speers still calls to check in with him occasionally and see how things are going. “The owner of the grocery store says Stephen is one of his best workers,” says Speers. But she notes that when Stephen first came to the program, he was lacking in self-confidence. “He started off not sure whether or not he could actually get a job.” Speers says this is common with the people she coaches. “Most people who have a disability have been bullied, so that lack of confidence is often there,” she says. “Part of my job is breaking through that and getting the person to see who I see—looking at their skills and abilities and getting the person to see them, too.” “Our program is smaller than some of the other programs in Hamilton, but our retention rate is much better,” notes Shonna Sager, program co-ordinator, Lawson Ministries. “We invest a lot of time to make sure people get a job that they’re going to like, that they’re going to be good at, so that they can retain it for a long time.” The employment supports program is one of many initiatives at Lawson Ministries, which primarily serves persons with developmental disabilities. Here, Speers and Stephen share a moment next to a collection of artwork by participants in Lawson's innovative art program
Gifts of Hope New items available in ethical giving catalogue. BY LT-COLONEL BRENDA MURRAY
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boy sits on the side of his bed, excited to show us where he sleeps under a mosquito net. Orphans and vulnerable children in Malawi receive chickens, pigs or goats that provide both nutrition and a source of income to help with school fees. A family stays healthy with medication from a clinic in Kenya. A Liberian farmer receives tools and seeds to help support her family post-Ebola. A child is rushed to hospital on a bush ambulance, saving his life. A borehole (well) provides a rural community in Sri Lanka with clean, safe water. What do all of these things have in common? They are gifts of hope, and they are funded through donations made to The Salvation Army Gifts of Hope ethical giving program, which started in 2008 and continues to grow to support our international community development projects. Seventeen carefully chosen items provide practical support to individuals, families and communities, helping break the cycle of poverty. Gone are the days of shipping—these items are bought in local markets, which not only helps individuals and communities, but also supports the local economy. It’s the gift that keeps on giving. Get Creative The great thing is that you can be creative. Instead of receiving presents for a
birthday, why not ask friends to make a donation and purchase an item in your name? Wouldn’t it be great to know that because of your birthday, others are now enjoying the gift of a goat? Or a restful night under a mosquito net? What about your child’s community sports team? What better way to engage the team than by asking them to contribute to sports and recreation items for other children. This instills social responsibility and the importance of thinking of others at a young age. It doesn’t take much to make a difference, as the gift items start as low as $15. Or what about a work party? A car dealership in Toronto raised enough funds to pay for 126 goats. Think of the impact this had on a community in Malawi when they received the goats. And when a goat has kids, one is passed on to someone else in the community, so the project sustains multiple families. There are also several gift enclosure card options to choose from, including birthday, anniversary, in memoriam, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, thank you and teacher recognition cards.
Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray is the director of world missions.
New Gift Options This year, we have added some new items to our catalogue (see page 31 of this issue of Salvationist, or visit saworldmissions. ca). As Christians, it is our responsibility to look after all that God has given us, includ-
Photo: Joel Johnson
Photo: Mark Yan
Clean water and mosquito nets are just some of the items funded through donations made to The Salvation Army Gifts of Hope ethical giving program
ing creation. We need to consider ways to lessen our footprint on our environment. Our international partners also recognize the importance of environmental sustainability, and where possible, have identified and included various environmentally friendly solutions, such as solar power and eco-cookers, in their projects. Did you know that The Salvation Army funded a project for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh by providing solar-powered LED lights? Together, we helped bring light to this community, reducing the risk of crime and violence that often lurks in dark spaces. With the new option of solar-powered lights in our Gifts of Hope catalogue, we hope to bring light to more communities. It is a gift with significant impact. What about the opportunity to provide ministry resources such as Bibles, Sunday school materials, instruments and worship music, so the gospel can be shared? Recently, we received a donation from a retired officer toward Bibles for the training college in Malawi, as the cadets were working out of different translations within the classroom. Now, due to this generous donation, the cadets will share together from one study Bible translation. It was because of this donation that we have added ministry resources to our gift items, so others can also benefit in this practical way. This year, be creative, have fun and give a gift of hope that will make a world of difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals, families and communities.
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Illustration: Mykyta/stock.Adobe.com
The General has indicated that this issue will not be relegated to the “too hard” basket.
Full Speed Ahead Task force makes gender equity within officership an international priority. BY COMMISSIONER MARK TILLSLEY
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he Salvation Army international gender equity task force is charged with exploring gender equity within officership and, as further clarified by General Brian Peddle, following consultation with the international management council, will also be the main working group for moving the gender equity agenda forward in The Salvation Army. The task force comprises my fellow co-chair, Colonel Lisbeth Welander, and eight officer colleagues at the Army’s International Headquarters (IHQ ). It is a working group, entrusted to advance this agenda, but is not the “brain trust” encompassing all of the expertise needed to assist The Salvation Army in formulating policy and procedures on the issue of gender equity. The General has clearly stated that the task force is permitted to recruit people as required within special22 November 2019 Salvationist
ist areas to assist with this work. Additionally, in order that voices are heard from all five of the Army’s geographic zones, a larger group of corresponding members will bring the broader perspectives needed in accomplishing this assignment. The Australia Territory’s Colonel Julie Campbell, gender equity advocate and territorial secretary for women’s ministries, is a representative on the task force. At the General’s request, progress reports are being shared with the international management council and the General’s consultative council, and recommendations will be shared with the international conference of leaders in March 2020. Meaningful Change Much has been written on The Salvation Army’s stated position on gender equity.
In Mapping Our Salvationist DNA, Commissioner Kay Rader references the orders and regulations drafted by General William Booth in 1905 to help direct his burgeoning troops. The Founder of the Army shared the following: •• Women have the right to an equal share with men in the great work of publishing salvation. •• A woman may hold any position of authority or power in the Army. •• Women must be treated as equal with men. Commissioner Rader then quotes Dr. Roger Green, who, more than 30 years ago, reminded us that “a basic doctrinal principle was established as policy of The Christian Mission and this policy continued ... people were placed in position
because of ability and not because of gender.” Commissioner Rader was forcefully demonstrating that this is not a new conversation. We benefit greatly from Salvation Army officers who continue to issue clarion calls for gender equity in the appointment process. The task force has been convened to respond to the worldwide call for action now. Whether in the context of the international conference of leaders, or when younger officers meet in conferences or symposiums, there is a global call for change, and the General has indicated that this issue will not be relegated to the “too hard” basket. In conversation with a young officer from the Army’s South Asia zone, the captain indicated that we can no longer cite cultural differences as the reason that gender equity is not represented in senior leadership appointments. The captain shared: “Women are holding significant positions of authority and power in our country; this is not a societal problem, but a Salvation Army problem. We are 20 to 30 years behind what is taking place in my country—and change is happening rapidly.” There are structural issues that do need to be addressed and, in dealing with
these matters, we will need to be aware of unintended consequences of change. By taking responsibility as opposed to fixating on blame for our present reality, we have a wonderful opportunity to effect meaningful change. The General, however, often reminds his territorial leaders around the world that they already possess the authority to move the gender equity matter forward in regard to appointments within their respective territories. The only exception is the four appointments made directly by the General (territorial commander, territorial president of women’s ministries, chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries), but these are prayerfully considered at the international appointment board level before the General makes the final decision. Learning from Others The gender equity task force is being helped tremendously through observing territories around the world that are experimenting with changes to structure and appointments that address gender equity issues. There are territories that have made tremendous gains in establishing what
Colonel Janet Munn recommended in The Officer magazine (January-March 2019): “Quantifiable goals for gender equality, including intentionality in equipping and appointing women officers immediately, and monitoring progress and outcomes.” These territories will potentially inform other territories of the successes to amplify and the pitfalls to avoid in dealing with matters of gender inequity that have existed for too long and must now be addressed. We are grateful that the General and international leadership have indicated that gender equity is an international priority, and there are expectations that the task force will deliver actionable recommendations to the international council of leaders for implementation. In the words of singer songwriter Steve Green, “May those who come behind us find us faithful.” Commissioner Mark Tillsley is the international secretary for the Americas and Caribbean, and co-chair of the IHQ gender equity task force.
This article was originally written for The Officer magazine. Reprinted with permission.
Salvationist November 2019 23
GRACE NOTES
In the Trenches Where are we fighting today? BY CAPTAIN LAURA VAN SCHAICK
O
n May 9, 1912, William Booth gave his famous “I’ll fight” speech. Speaking of the plight of the poor, the marginalized and the imprisoned, Booth’s words served as a call to arms for Salvationists around the world—a call to fight with love-in-action for the sake of the oppressed and the lost. He could not have imagined that only a few short years later, Salvationists would assist soldiers in a much different fight in the First World War—also referred to as the Great War. Each November 11, Canadians remember the sacrifices made by the many who fought bravely for the freedoms we hold today. Internationally, Salvationists remember the efforts made by their own who served alongside the military in both world wars: the chaplains who shared words of hope on the front lines, the doughnut girls who served warm baked goods to the hungry soldiers and those on mobile canteens who offered a cup of cold water in Jesus’ name. It’s good that we remember and celebrate this. It’s good that we give out free doughnuts on National Doughnut Day.
It’s good that an image of a war canteen was silk-screened on one of the first Salvation Army T-shirts I ever owned. It’s good that we remember the good we have done in the past in literal trenches around the world. The past should not be forgotten, but our history is only worth telling if it shapes our present and our future. What Are Our Current Trenches? Booth’s “I’ll fight” speech is as relevant for us today as it was more than 100 years ago. Women are still marginalized and child hunger is still a concern. Human trafficking is still real, as is the struggle for justice. Church attendance is dwindling, loneliness is at an all-time high and there are many who have not embraced the love of Jesus. But is The Salvation Army living in the past or are we embracing the present trenches that surround us? Trenches not filled with military soldiers, but with refugees, foster children, the homeless, the hungry, the evacuated, the trafficked and the addicted. How are we supporting these individuals? How are we fighting for them?
I posed this question on Facebook, and was inspired by the answers I received: Stories from the trenches of camping ministry, where one child ate so much they got sick because they weren’t sure there was going to be food to eat at home. Stories from the trenches of street ministry, where relationships are being forged with women who are selling themselves in order to have a place to sleep. Stories from the trenches of emergency disaster services, where a hot meal of roast chicken and potatoes was enough to bring an evacuated man to tears. Stories from the trenches of community and family services, where a transgender couple seeking food support also found love and hope. Stories from the trenches of addiction, where recovery groups are being formed and participants are being welcomed into the worshipping community of the corps. These are our trenches. This is where we are fighting. Mobilized for Today We won’t move forward if we refuse to leave the past. We need to fight in ways that are relevant and innovative. We love our history, and we need to continue to remember it, but we must ensure it’s not to the detriment of present and future victories. We need to be brave and bold if we are to remain in the trenches of our world. The trenches aren’t pretty. It takes hard work and grit to make forward gains. We need to be willing to get uncomfortable, to leave the safe walls of our corps buildings and our Sunday morning worship meetings. Soldiers, adherents and all disciples of Jesus—we are called to fight! And when we do make gains, we need to tell these stories, too. Because we are fighting. We do have incredible stories to tell, stories that are just as inspiring as the doughnut girls and mobile canteen workers who served on the front lines so bravely in the past. May we not be stuck in the past, or afraid of the future. Instead, may our past inspire us to fight for those who are struggling in the trenches that God is calling us to, celebrating our victories in Jesus’ name. Captain Laura Van Schaick is the women’s ministries program and resource officer. Salvationist November 2019 25
CROSS CULTURE
IN THE NEWS
Celebrating 50 Years of the Canadian Staff Band
Students at Evangelical Universities Face Unique Faith Struggle
CANADIAN STAFF BAND In March 2019, the Canadian Staff Band (CSB) held a brass band spectacular weekend to celebrate its 50th anniversary, inviting four legendary Salvation Army bands to join the CSB on stage in Toronto at Roy Thomson Hall: the Chicago Staff Band, New York Staff Band, U.S.A. Southern Territorial Band and U.S.A. Western Territory Staff Band, along with other special guests. It was one of the largest Salvation Army banding events in history. The power and excitement of the weekend has been captured in a new commemorative photo book and DVD double set. This engaging program includes sacred music and new works by contemporary and Salvation Army composers commissioned for this anniversary celebration, along with a few surprises.
VeggieTales: The Best Christmas Gift Bob the Tomato, Larry the Cucumber and all the familiar veggie friends return this fall with an 18-episode revival of the VeggieTales series. According to Phil Vischer, VeggieTales creator and creative lead on the new series, these new episodes represent a return to the early days of the long-running series, and will feature short, spiritually focused Bible stories. In the first episode, The Best Christmas Gift, Bob and Larry are putting together a Christmas show at Mr. Nezzer’s theatre that seems to be headed for disaster. Bob begins to wonder how they will celebrate Christmas when everything is going wrong. To find out, the veggie gang goes back to the first Christmas, when times were tough and things seemed hopeless, where they learn that the promise of Christmas is, no matter what’s happening, God is with us.
ON THE WEB Band Guy SALVATIONARMYTV While Billie Eilish’s Bad Guy was sitting at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart this summer, a group of young Salvationists at Star Lake Music Camp in the U.S.A. Eastern Territory was making their own version of her catchy tune. Created with guidance from Matthew Osmond, of Canada and Bermuda’s territorial youth department, Band Guy is a delightful pitchperfect musical parody featuring Nick Simmons-Smith, bandmaster of the U.S.A. Southern Territorial Band, in the titular role. Watch the video on YouTube at youtu.be/CFJ8xg2i_s8. 26 November 2019 Salvationist
It is common knowledge that many Christian young people strugg le with doubts while attending university. But what does that struggle look like for students attending evangelical colleges or universities, compared to those at other institutions? A new study by Jennifer Carter published in Christian Higher Education analyzed surveys of more than 14,500 students at 136 colleges and universities to find out, and the results were surprising. As Christianity Today reports, students at evangelical colleges and universities were “more likely to feel unsettled about spiritual matters, unsure of their beliefs, disillusioned with their religious upbringing, distant from God, or angry with God than their peers at secular schools as well as those at mainline Protestant and Catholic institutions.” Students in their first year felt sure of their faith, but by third year, were having doubts. Carter’s next study will look at fourth-year students who have resolved their faith struggle and what their evangelical college or university did that made a difference.
Instagram Changes Rules for Diet Ads Instagram has announced that posts related to diet products and cosmetic surgery will face tighter restrictions. This policy change, which applies to Facebook as well, comes amid criticism that Instagram has given a platform for content that has a negative impact on young people, their mental health and body image. The Guardian reports that, under the new rules, Instagram posts that promote the use of certain weight-loss products or cosmetic procedures, with a price or an incentive to buy included, will be hidden to users under the age of 18. Any content that makes “miraculous” claims about a weight-loss product with a link to a commercial offer will be removed. “We want Instagram to be a positive place for everyone that uses it and this policy is part of our ongoing work to reduce the pressure that people can sometimes feel as a result of social media,” says Emma Collins, Instagram’s public policy manager. The items highlighted in Cross Culture are available through Supplies and Purchasing—visit store.salvationarmy.ca or call 416-422-6100. Items are also available through Amazon.
Photo: Balazs/stock.Adobe.com
IN REVIEW
PEOPLE & PLACES
TORONTO—Five junior soldiers are enrolled at Yorkminster Citadel. Front, from left, Sabina Luna Aguilar, Saul Luna Aguilar and Iain Neve. Middle, from left, Pippa Neve and Samuel Agosu. Back, from left, CSM Rick Allington and Mjr Pauline Gruer-Caulfield, CO.
ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—When Salvationists at St. John’s Temple were preparing for the corps’ 132nd anniversary in 2018, Lucy Woodland, then 101 years old, was asked to take part in the cake-cutting celebration as the oldest senior soldier of the corps. Declining the honour because she was feeling a little under the weather, she said, “Ask me again next year when I’m feeling better.” So when celebrations for the 133rd anniversary took place this year, Woodland, now 102, joined Emma White, youngest junior soldier at St. John’s Temple, to cut the cake. With them are Mjrs Peter and Janice Rowe, COs, and CSM Rick Hynes. Woodland has been a part of the corps since 1943, when she married her husband, Gordon. An educator, wife and mother, she has served as a Sunday school teacher, home league member and home league treasurer.
GAZETTE KING’S POINT, N.L.—Carl Hollett of King’s Point Corps receives a certificate of appreciation, presented on behalf of the N.L. Div, in recognition of his 52 years of music ministry. Marking the moment with him are Mjrs Brian and Betty Thomas, COs, and CT Tony Dawe, holding the flag.
BURLINGTON, ONT.—Donna Downham is commissioned as the home league secretary at Burlington CC. Supporting her are Mjrs Ron and Judi Wickens, COs, and Bill Downham, holding the flag.
TERRITORIAL Retirement: Nov 1—Mjr Marilyn Shirran Promoted to glory: Mrs. Mjr Mabel Cuff, Sep 1; Mjr Frederick Heintzman, Sep 16; Mrs. Brg Stephana Andradez, Sep 18
CALENDAR Commissioners Floyd and Tracey Tidd: Nov 1-4 officers’ gatherings and public meetings, Corner Brook, Gander and St. John’s, N.L.; Nov 7-9 officers’ gathering and public meeting, Halifax; Nov 9-10 officers’ gathering and public meeting, Montreal; Nov 10-11 public meeting, Ottawa; Nov 11 National Remembrance Day Service, Ottawa; Nov 14-15 officers’ gathering and public meeting, Guelph, Ont.; Nov 16 Fall Festival with the Canadian Staff Band and Impact Brass (divisional youth band, Ont. GL Div), Oshawa Temple, Ont.; Nov 17 Santa Claus Parade, Toronto; Nov 17-20 Territorial Executive Conference/Territorial Leaders’ Conference, JPCC; Nov 22 Hope in the City breakfast, Fairmont Hotel, Toronto; Nov 24-25 CFOT; Nov 25 Booth University College; Nov 28–Dec 1 officers’ gatherings and public meeting, Bermuda Colonels Edward and Shelley Hill: Nov 1-12 Holy Land tour; Nov 17-19 Territorial Executive Conference/Territorial Leaders’ Conference, JPCC; Nov 23-25 B.C. Div; Nov 28 retired officers’ Christmas luncheon, Barrie, Ont.; Nov 29 Christmas in the Square/Toy Mountain kick-off, Toronto Canadian Staff Band: Nov 16 Fall Festival with Impact Brass (divisional youth band, Ont. GL Div), Oshawa Temple, Ont.; Nov 17 Santa Claus Parade with Impact Brass (divisional youth band, Ont. GL Div), Toronto Canadian Staff Songsters: Nov 2-3 Simcoe CC, Ont. Salvationist November 2019 27
PEOPLE & PLACES
Accepted for Training Messengers of Grace (2019-2021), College for Officer Training, Winnipeg Jory Hewson Oshawa Temple, Ontario Central-East Division I believe my time at the College for Officer Training will provide practical skills related to officership and deepen my theological understandings. I look forward to working shoulder to shoulder and fellowshipping with our session-mates who share the same calling. God has called my family, by his grace, to live our lives in devotion and service to him. Rebecca Hewson Oshawa Temple, Ontario Central-East Division The call to officership is very humbling. It is the opportunity to serve the Lord full time with my husband and our children, which is something that cannot be done in my own strength. He gives me the courage to say yes to his leading. The College for Officer Training will enhance my commitment to God’s call as I learn to channel my strengths and build on my weaknesses. I am grateful to have the opportunity to train in this way. April Barthau North York Temple, Toronto, Ontario Central-East Division Since childhood I knew I would become a nurse and then a Salvation Army officer. I have believed this for as long as I can remember, and all because of the overseas appointments my parents had as Salvation Army officers. I wanted to help them in their ministry of helping people. I graduated as a registered nurse in 2012, and married Marco that same year. We discussed officership, but felt called first to serve as medical missionaries with The Salvation Army. Working for The Salvation Army in Papua New Guinea has affirmed our calling. Marco Herrera Lopizic North York Temple, Toronto, Ontario Central-East Division At the age of six, I gave my heart to God and received the first call to be an officer. Back then, it was just a dream of childhood, but growing up, this call became stronger. When I was a child, I spent many days in the hospital and I could see how important it is to have good health. I became a doctor to physically help others. The three years I have served in Papua New Guinea have helped me see that people also need spiritual health. I know this is the time to answer God’s call. Patrick Penton Bishop’s Falls Corps, Newfoundland and Labrador Division, and Korea International Corps, Ansan City, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea When I came in contact with the Army, I wanted to be a part of it. After understanding the need for salvation, even as a child, I was saved. I continually shared the gospel with those around me, and it wasn’t uncommon to find me passing out gospel tracts from the corps, “preaching” outside or asking folks if they knew Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. Through this I believe God was preparing me. In later years, I continued to recognize that desire to share the transforming news of the gospel and serve others. 28 November 2019 Salvationist
Kelsie Burford Chatham-Kent Ministries, Ontario Great Lakes Division My parents were officers and I can remember as kids we often played “church,” when we imitated and re-enacted what we thought they did. I believe that was God’s way of speaking to me about becoming an officer even before I could really understand what that meant. I look forward to my time at the College for Officer Training because it will help me fulfil God’s call, not just through academic and intellectual training, but through relationships and personal spiritual growth. Mark Burford Chatham-Kent Ministries, Ontario Great Lakes Division I received my call to full-time ministry during music camp at Jackson’s Point Camp at the age of 13. Thinking I knew everything—even more than God—and being a little afraid of living life as an officer and not understanding how he could use me in that way, I said no. I finally accepted God’s call during a Take Time to be Holy event in St. Thomas, Ont., and since then I have received numerous affirmations, especially when I was engaged in full-time ministry in Elliot Lake, Ont., with my wife, Kelsie. Beverly Burton Kentville Community Church, N.S., Maritime Division Officership is an opportunity for me to be involved in full-time ministry. It is an awesome responsibility that can only be accomplished if I am in close communion with God. I must rely on him for the strength I need to go forward and the wisdom to act and speak as he would have me do. John Burton Kentville Community Church, N.S., Maritime Division Many people have helped me discover my calling from God to be an officer, especially my wife, Beverly, who has encouraged me to listen to God and find fulfilment in his promises. She led me back to God and toward this glorious calling of servitude in the kingdom of God. Amber Wareham Glace Bay, N.S., Maritime Division I first felt God calling me through the words of I Surrender by All Sons and Daughters, to leave everything behind and follow him. Months later, I attended a women’s conference that concluded with a video entitled Wake Up. I did just that. I watched that video with tears in my eyes, finally seeing God’s plan for me, to lead his people out of the bondage of their sin and sorrow. Brent Wareham Glace Bay, N.S., Maritime Division Since my youth, God has called me to be a shepherd of his flock. Throughout the trials and tribulations of my life, he has stood beside me, watching, waiting and always calling. Although I never felt worthy, he still called, and when he finally revealed that he was calling my wife, as well, I answered with a resounding “Yes!”
PEOPLE & PLACES Roger Barrow Pathway Community Church, Paradise, Newfoundland and Labrador Division I believe the College for Officer Training will help me fulfil my calling by giving me a strong foundation on which to build my personal ministry. It will not only give me time to go deeper into God’s Word, but also teach me the fundamentals required for leading a congregation. Glenda Barrow Pathway Community Church, Paradise, Newfoundland and Labrador Division I understand officership to be a unique calling. It is diverse and hard to define. While a pastoral calling, it is first a complete submission to Christ and a willingness to serve wherever and however needed.
Accepted as Auxiliary-Captain Charles Okongo Etobicoke Temple, Toronto, Ontario Central-East Division Officership is a God-given avenue for me to continue to bring the gospel of grace and hope to his people in Canada and beyond. It will allow me to be a part of an Army that is meeting the spiritual, emotional, psychological, physical and material needs of many people, a ministry I know I am called to. Arthur Heathcote Weetamah, Winnipeg, Prairie Division Officership is a response to a spiritual calling to devote my time and energy to the service of God and people. It is a distinct role of servant leadership to minister to the community and corps by sharing the message of the gospel, leading people to Christ and developing them in their faith.
Glenna Cryderman Saskatoon Temple, Prairie Division God’s call has been evident to me from a young age. I first felt called to officership as I attended youth councils, but I didn’t believe it was the right time. Twenty years ago, while I was participating in a Bible study called “Experiencing God,” I was reminded of his call, but still did not feel prepared. When my husband, Keith, joined me in sensing God’s call, we began to express our interest in ministry. Just three weeks later, Keith was promoted to glory, yet God has sustained me and continues to call me to serve as an officer.
TRIBUTE CHATHAM, ONT.—lan Frank Tilley was born in 1935 in Toronto as the son of Brigadier and Mrs. Frank Tilley. lan served the Lord as a soldier in The Salvation Army all of his life, holding the positions of songster leader, young people’s sergeant-major, singing company leader and corps sergeant-major. He was an active bandsman in various corps bands for more than 70 years, and in retirement played in the Jubilee Brass Band. Ian served as an inaugural member of the Advisory Council of Salvation Army Laymen. He was the founder of Martin, Tilley & Co., Chartered Accountants and Management Consultants. Ian’s encouraging Christian witness was felt by many. Ian is lovingly remembered and missed by his wife, Ann; son, Mark (Elizabeth); daughters Lynn Tilley and Leah (Dean) Pilgrim; grandchildren Sarah, Mark, Luke, lsaac, Catherine and Hannah; nieces Janine McDowell, Joanne and Elizabeth Tilley; nephew, Scott Tilley; extended family members and friends who enjoyed his sense of humour and infectious laugh.
Guidelines for Tributes
Salvationist will print tributes (maximum 200 words), at no cost, as space permits. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Tributes should be received within three months of the promotion to glory and include: community where the person resided, corps involvement, Christian ministry, conversion to Christ, survivors. A high-resolution digital photo or high-resolution scan of an original photo (TIFF, EPS or JPG; 300 ppi) should be emailed to salvationist@ can.salvationarmy.org; a clear, original photograph mailed to 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto ON M4H 1P4 will be returned.
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NOT CALLED?
The Talk Orest and Tracy Goyak were Christians who went to different churches. But where would they worship together? BY KEN RAMSTEAD
A
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s an officer, you realize very quickly that life is not just what people see on Sunday,” Major Tracy Goyak says. “Between thrift stores and family and community work, we’re always on the go. It’s hard work, but at the end of the day, you feel complete.” “And at the end of the day, you know who your boss is,” smiles Major Orest Goyak, Tracy’s husband. “In the secular world, bosses come and go, but our boss never changes. God’s always the same; I can trust him and he is always on my side.” The Goyaks are proud and fulfilled Salvation Army officers serving at Hope Community Church in Saint John, N.B. There was a time, however, when the young couple’s future hinged on two interviews. “Our Church” Orest and Tracy met in high school in Thompson, Man. Tracy was born and raised in The Salvation Army while Orest was a Ukrainian Catholic. For both of them, church was an important part of their lives—Tracy taught Sunday school and Orest was in the church choir—so it was natural that they would worship at each other’s church on alternate Sundays. The couple fell in love and were soon engaged to be married. But where would the couple worship as husband and wife? “We realized we couldn’t keep hopping from church to church,” says Tracy. “So we decided to interview both the corps officer and the parish priest. Whatever church we decided to attend would be our church.” Fateful Decision The couple met with Orest’s parish priest first. “It seemed very complicated, for me especially,” says Tracy. “The expectation for a person from a Protestant faith background to be married in the Catholic Church was not easy to attain, and there was nothing that suggested to me that I would be accepted for who I was.” But what concerned Tracy and Orest was that if they decided to get married in The Salvation Army or any other church, in the Catholic Church’s eyes, they would not be married. The couple went to see their Salvation Army pastor, thenCaptain Dean Locke. “At Orest’s church, it was all or nothing,” says Tracy. “At the Army, it was the opposite: We love you and whatever you decide, your marriage will be a union in God’s eyes wherever you get married and you will still be loved by us.” Without saying a word, Orest and Tracy knew what church they would be happy in for the rest of their lives. “We both felt at peace and we both felt the same way,” says Tracy. “I didn’t have to convince him and he didn’t have to convince me. While we had great respect for the Catholic Church, we knew that the Army was where we were going to raise our family.” 30 November 2019 Salvationist
Mjrs Tracy and Orest Goyak with their children, Nathan, Kaitlyn and Colten
Symbol of Joy The couple were married in 1991. Soon after their first son, Nathan, was born in 1993, Orest responded to an altar call for the first time in his life. “Major Art Oliver was the guest speaker that evening,” says Orest, “and it was like he was talking to just me. I had never been so moved.” As he knelt at the mercy seat, Orest felt as if heavy weights were lifted from his shoulders. “I felt amazing.” “Even though Orest was raised in church, he was never taught that you need that personal relationship with Jesus,” explains Tracy. “He got it that evening.” “For me, I used to see the crucifix every Sunday—Jesus dead on the cross,” says Orest. “The cross should not be a symbol of guilt that God died. But as Salvationists, we feel a sense of hope and joy that the cross is now empty!” Called to Officership Soon after, Orest and Tracy became soldiers. “I'd always been involved in my church but I'd put it off,” says Tracy. “I knew that wearing a uniform was a commitment— you’re in for life. And I realize now I was waiting for Orest.” A year after they became soldiers, they were accepted to the College for Officer Training. “We’ve always had the desire to do more than we were doing,” Tracy says, “and not just collect a paycheque.” “So at the end of the day,” continues Orest, “we knew we would be doing more as officers with our gifts and abilities, and we knew in our hearts that that’s what we were called to do.” To anyone thinking of becoming officers themselves, Tracy replies, “I would tell them to follow their heart when God pulls at their heartstrings. You won’t be sorry.”
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