Seniors’ Ministry: More Than Officer’s Second World Reflectors of Holiness Board Games and Bus Trips War Survival Story Welcomed to Training College
THE VOICE OF THE ARMY
November 2021
Salvationist.ca
The Future Beckons As Booth University College enters its 40th year, exciting new initiatives will make the institution even more relevant for the next generation
November 2021 • Volume 16, Number 11
DEPARTMENTS 5 Frontlines 24 International Development Love in Action by Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray
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27 Mobilize 2.0 Stronger Together
FEATURES
29 People & Places
10 Reflectors of Holiness Welcomed
30 Salvation Stories
Canada and Bermuda Territory recognizes new cadets and one auxiliary-captain as they begin officer training. by Pamela Richardson
All Things Are Possible by Francine Tuyishime Ingabire
12 The Future Beckons
COLUMNS
As Booth University College enters its 40th year, exciting new initiatives will make the institution even more relevant for the next generation. by Ken Ramstead
4 Editorial Made to Stick by Geoff Moulton
5 Onward A Monument to Sacrifice by Commissioner Floyd Tidd
9 Chief Priorities
17 Let’s Talk About Racism
The Great Feast by Colonel Evie Diaz
We serve as a hub for all THQ-related resources for the territory—from finance to women’s ministries to international development. Visit Salvationist.ca to check out our latest sub-sites for volunteer services, modern slavery and human trafficking, and emergency disaster services. Cover photo: Booth University College
READ AND SHARE IT!
Salvation Army resource designed to foster conversations and create a more just and equitable society. by Aimee Patterson
28 Grace Notes Other Vibes Allowed by Captain Laura Van Schaick
Forge Stronger Partnerships
14 We’re Listening New diversity and inclusion strategist shares how the Army is moving toward equity. Interview by Kristin Ostensen
SALVATIONIST.CA IS MORE THAN JUST MAGAZINE ARTICLES!
18 From Five to Four
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Living in the shadow of illness and grief. by Giselle Randall
20 Reflections From a Boomer There must be more to seniors’ ministries than board games and bus trips. by Major Shirley King
22 Behind Barbed Wire As the Second World War raged, a Salvation Army officer fought her own private struggle against the enemy. Salvationist November 2021
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EDITORIAL
Made to Stick
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ow do we learn and grow as Salvationists and Christian leaders? Booth University College is asking that question for a new generation and in a time of unprecedented change. Find out what exciting initiatives are on the horizon for Booth UC in this month’s issue (page 12). I’ve personally had the privilege of teaching writing courses at Booth UC. One book at the top of my recommended reading list is Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die by Chip and Dan Heath. The Heaths have captured a common set of traits that help ideas “stick” with people. Good ideas are not only memorable, they change our behaviour. Under the right conditions they can also be contagious. The Heaths have isolated six principles for ideas that stick: • Keep it simple. Find the core of the idea and get rid of everything else. • Unearth the unexpected. Surprise gets our attention and keeps our interest. • Make it concrete. Ideas are more powerful when they create a mental picture. • Add credibility. Experts add legitimacy when they endorse an idea. • Engage the emotions. Messages with passion inspire people to act.
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 Pamela Richardson News Editor, Copy Editor and Production Co-ordinator (416-422-6112) Kristin Ostensen Associate Editor and Staff Writer 4 November 2021
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• Use stories. By mirroring our experience, stories help us manage emotions, solve problems and build skills. Jesus understood instinctively what it means to make ideas stick. Rather than lecturing people with a dull list of instructions, he told them parables. His stories were about common, everyday things that his first-century listeners would easily understand—a farmer sowing seeds, a master collecting debts and a Samaritan rescuing a man from a band of robbers. Our territorial publications also focus on stories—testimonies of Christian faith and how the Army helps people experiencing difficulty. However, in everything we do as Salvation Army leaders—sermons, donation pitches, volunteer recruitment, even financial reporting—it is important to grasp “the power of story.” Rather than preaching at people, we have the opportunity to share accounts of spiritual and material transformation. In the words of the Heaths, we can “put skin on” the gospel message by relating how God is working in the lives of real people. In this issue, we tell the stories of people like Francine Tuyishime Ingabire, who lived through the Rwandan genocide and resettled in Canada (page 30); or Major Margaret Burns, who survived a Japanese internment camp during the Second
Lisa Suroso Graphic Design Specialist Rivonny Luchas 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.
World War (page 22); or the Thompson family, who hold fast to the promises of Jesus, even in the tragic loss of a child (page 18). Let’s keep sharing the Army story and, more importantly, the hope of the gospel. This month, we welcome Lisa Suroso, our new graphic design specialist. Lisa has a background in international development, attended the Ontario College of Art and Design University and spent three years ministering in Indonesia with Mustard Seed International. GEOFF MOULTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
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Mission
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ONWARD
A Monument to Sacrifice How then shall we live? BY COMMISSIONER FLOYD TIDD
Commissioner Floyd Tidd, territorial commander, places a wreath at the national war memorial in Ottawa on Remembrance Day
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nce again this year, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we will pause to remember. “If we do not,” writes Heather Robertson in A Terrible Beauty: The Art of Canada at War, “the sacrifice of those one hundred thousand Canadian lives will be meaningless. They died for us, for their homes and families and friends, for a collection of traditions they cherished and a future they believed in; they died for Canada. The meaning of their sacrifice rests with our collective national consciousness; our future is their monument.”
We will choose to remember men and women from across Canada and Bermuda for their service and sacrifice. We gather, wearing poppies, pausing for two minutes of silent tribute. In light of such great service and sacrifice, how then shall we live? We understand that our greatest remembrance is expressed in how we live the other 364 days each year. Each time we represent The Salvation Army at the national war memorial in Ottawa on Remembrance Day, we stand in the shadow of the bronzed uniformed figures from all services passing through the granite arch, reflecting the theme of “The Great Response of Canada.” At the dedication of the monument, King George VI remarked, “One sees at a glance the answer made by Canada when the world’s peace was broken and freedom threatened in the fateful years of the Great War. It depicts the zeal with which this country entered the conflict.”
As I stand at the monument, I represent The Salvation Army, known for its zeal to enter the conflict where peace is broken, hope shattered and faith challenged. An Army that follows the lead of our captain, Jesus, who made the ultimate sacrifice. He said, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13 NLT). Through his death and Resurrection, there is peace with God and life eternal for anyone who believes in him. On this Remembrance Day, we remember those who fought and died for others, but we also remember them in the way we choose to live throughout the year. Let us follow the lead of Christ, prepared to lay down our lives that others might be saved. Remembering, we choose to go “in the strength of the Lord, to conflicts which faith will require, his grace as [our] shield and reward, [our] courage and zeal shall inspire!” (SASB 959). FRONTLINES
Belleville Garden Targets Food Insecurity
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he community garden at The Salvation Army’s Belleville Citadel, Ont., celebrated another successful year with an end-of-season barbecue for the gardeners. The garden, which has been going strong for five years, is a partnership with the Community Development Council of Quinte (CDC-Q), a non-profit organization that aims to lower food insecurity in the region. “For the first couple years we had 12 beds, then 18, and the last two summers we’ve had 24 beds. Some of those beds are grown by corps members and others by community friends,” says Major Catherine Brown-Ratcliffe, corps officer. Approximately 35 people attended the barbecue, the majority of whom are not connected to the corps in any way aside from the community garden. “Lots of wonderful conversations and connections have happened over those garden beds,” notes Major Brown-Ratcliffe. “As a result of these connections, we’ve had a few community friends attend our parking lot worship services and our Messy
Church. We are very thankful that we are helping our community’s most vulnerable. We will continue to provide hope in the community.” Taking part in the community garden and sharing produce with others in need has been meaningful for Claudine Lambert. “The most cherished part of my garden-box experience has been getting to meet fellow gardeners and the wonderful folks at The Salvation Army,” she says. Some of the produce has been shared with the Army’s community and family services for their meal programs and with other local agencies. Jim Mallabar, program co-ordinator with CDC-Q, notes that in 2020, 127 garden beds provided hope to 1,100 people in Belleville and area who were dealing with food insecurity. “The gardens make a difference to the community as they help fight food insecurity directly for people who use the beds and even more so to all the food organizations who receive donations from gardeners every year,” Mallabar says.
Mjr Catherine Brown-Ratcliffe harvests produce from Belleville Citadel’s community garden
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FRONTLINES
Partnership Provides Clothing for Nunavut Youth
Colleen Chau (front, centre) and her team are ready to hand out clothing on distribution day
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undreds of children and youth in Igloolik, Nunavut, received much-needed winter clothing in September, thanks to a partnership between The Salvation Army, Joe Fresh and Baffinland Iron Mines. Igloolik-based Grade 4 teacher Colleen Chau reached out to the Alberta and Northern Territories Division and set in motion a plan that saw 750 children and youth outfitted with jackets, pants, hats, mittens, boots and even backpacks, courtesy of Joe Fresh of Loblaw Companies Ltd. “I wanted to do something to help the children in my class and their families,” says Chau, who teaches at Ataguttaaluk Elementary School. “I’m thrilled that what started as a small project has grown into something I never could have imagined.” In a region where temperatures can dip to nearly -40 C, winter clothing is a necessity that no child should have to go without. This project has helped ease the burden of the costs associated with outfitting kids for cold weather. “We are honoured to be a part of this initiative, working with The Salvation Army and Baffinland to support the students, families and teachers in Igloolik,” says Lindsay Cook, vice-president marketing and communications for Joe Fresh.
“This is an incredibly unique opportunity, where we know our involvement can make a meaningful difference in the community.” While Joe Fresh provided eight pallets of winter gear and other supplies, the logistics and costs associated with transporting these goods seemed impossible until Baffinland stepped in. The company offered its support and expertise to ship the items to the remote community on Baffin Island. “Baffinland is committed to supporting initiatives that benefit the communities in North Baffin,” says Brian Penney, CEO of Baffinland Iron Mines. “The Salvation Army and Joe Fresh have come together to generously provide these supplies to the youth in Igloolik and we are honoured we could do our part as well.” “When need is presented, our organizational instinct is to do everything we can to come alongside the communities and people we serve,” says Major Margaret McLeod, divisional commander, Alberta and Northern Territories Division. “In this case, it was evident from the start that The Salvation Army would require assistance with this project. We’re thankful that Colleen reached out to us for help and equally grateful for the support of our friends at Joe Fresh and Baffinland.”
Igloolik youth pick up winter clothing
EDS Collaboration Expands Ministry Impact
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he Salvation Army’s emergency disaster services (EDS) received a boost this year thanks to partnerships with two organizations: Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM) and World Hope International. The Army was first approached by NCM, an international development agency of the Church of the Nazarene that had previously worked with the Army on international projects. NCM was looking to begin domestic emergency disaster work and wanted to partner with an organization that was experienced in this area, explains Perron Goodyear, territorial director of EDS. Soon after, World Hope International, a similar agency of the Wesleyan Church, reached out to 6 November 2021
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the Army as well. Members from both organizations have received EDS training and are now volunteering with the Army. Virtual training has allowed people from all over to join, including people from the American state of Maine. Goodyear is particularly grateful for the new volunteers in areas such as eastern Canada where the Army has fewer EDS volunteers. “It’s provided us with additional personnel who get the emotional and spiritual care component, as well as the hands-on ministry,” says Goodyear. “They fit in seamlessly because of their beliefs and the work that they do.” Both groups will undertake further EDS training this fall.
FRONTLINES
Ethics Centre Director Receives Order of the Founder
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n behalf of General Brian Peddle, Commissioner Floyd Tidd, territorial commander, presented Dr. James Read with the Order of the Founder, The Salvation Army’s highest award, in a ceremony at the College for Officer Training in Winnipeg in September. Read has given decades of distinguished service to The Salvation Army, most recently as executive director of the Ethics Centre, and is now entering retirement. Read completed his doctoral studies in philosophy at University of California, Los Angeles, taught at public universities in Tennessee and Ohio, and eventually returned to Canada in 1982 to help establish Catherine Booth Bible College, now Booth University College.
Dr. Read and his wife, Laurie, hold his Order of the Founder certificate and medal
In 1994, he founded The Salvation Army Ethics Centre and, in 2008, he became a senior policy analyst for the newly formed International Social Justice Commission. He also served as chair of the International Moral and Social Issues Council. “Christians may not have all the answers to all the dilemmas today, but disengagement is not an option for us,” said Commissioner Tidd as he presented Read with the Order of the Founder. “We thank you for that reminder.” Along with his professional work, Read is active at his home corps, Heritage Park Temple in Winnipeg, together with his wife, Laurie, and served for many years as corps sergeant-major. “Your service in various aspects through the years has been demonstrative of whole-life discipleship as you have combined your faith and academic work,” wrote General Peddle in a letter to Read. “You have helped The Salvation Army work out what it means to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly.” Accepting the honour with “enormous gratitude,” Read shared from Philippians 4:8, where the Apostle Paul writes, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, what-
Dr. James Read receives the Order of the Founder from Commissioner Floyd Tidd
ever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Reflecting on the importance of the word think in that passage, Read said, “We in The Salvation Army, I think when we are at our best, we are people who are reflective practitioners. We are active, we are ‘roll up the sleeves,’ we are in there, we are engaged. But it’s an engagement that’s backed by a deep thinking and analysis, an appreciation of what is true.” The Order of the Founder was instituted by General Bramwell Booth in 1917 to mark “outstanding service rendered by officers and soldiers such as would in spirit or achievement have been specially commended by the Founder.”
Ontario Division Launches New Creative Ministries
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he Ontario Division is revitalizing its youth ministry with a reorganization of its existing music ministries and the launch of two new divisional creative groups. Following the merger of the former Ontario Great Lakes and Ontario Central-East divisions into a single division, pre-existing musical groups are now considered regional groups. Impact Brass, Ignite Brass and the Southwestern Ontario Youth Chorus will bring together young Salvationists in the southwestern region, while Solidarity Brass and the Central Ontario Youth Chorus will meet in the Greater Toronto Area. The reorganization of these ministries gave the Ontario youth department an opportunity to also consider new possibilities for the division. “While music ministry is such a strong suit for The Salvation Army, we started wondering, who’s missing from this ministry?” says Katie Fuentes, divisional Youth Creative co-ordinator, Ontario Division. With that in mind, the Ontario youth department has created
The Southwestern Ontario Youth Chorus in action, prior to the pandemic
two new divisional creative ministries: the Youth Worship Team and Youth Production Team. “We get to reach all these new youth who aren’t necessarily musically inclined, and give them skills so they can worship and serve in their communities,” says Fuentes. Under the new Youth Creative umbrella, the division will hold three major events in the coming year: a retreat for all members of the creative groups, a conference in the spring that is open to all young Salvationists and an end-of-year concert next May. Salvationist November 2021
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FRONTLINES
Salvation Army Hosts Celebration of Culture Two-day event brings Salvationists together to learn about and honour Indigenous cultures. BY ABBIGAIL OLIVER
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he Salvation Army’s fourth annual Celebration of Culture, held virtually in August, brought Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples together in conversation to listen, learn and appreciate Indigenous cultures across Canada. “This gathering is a time to build new relationships based on trust and to learn to walk gently on the journey of reconciliation,” said Commissioner Tracey Tidd, territorial president of women’s ministries. The two-day celebration began on Saturday with creative workshops, such as a Niitsitapi pow wow dance instruction; an introduction to beading with Captain Crystal Porter, associate territorial Indigenous ministries consultant; and a lesson on cooking traditional frybread with Millie Azak and Sheena Johansen from the Nisga’a Nation. The opening ceremonies, led by Major Shari Russell, territorial Indigenous ministries consultant and member of the Yellow Quill First Nation, began with a land acknowledgment and a prayer by Captain Porter, followed by a pipe ceremony by Casey Church of the Potawatomi Nation, and greetings from Commissioner Floyd Tidd, territorial commander, and Commissioner Tracey Tidd. More than 50 participants joined the main session with special guest Terry LeBlanc, executive director of Indigenous Pathways and NAIITS: An Indigenous Learning Community, and traditional healing elder for the Abegweit Mi’kmaw community in Prince Edward Island. On Saturday evening, participants chose from a lineup of inspirational workshops led by members of different First Nations. In one of these sessions, Chief Vincent Yellow Old Woman of the Siksika Nation, a residential school survivor, shared his experience with religion and Indigenous culture, and his quest to learn who he is, where he comes from and who his people are. He challenged participants to think about many of the struggles Indigenous Peoples face today and in the past, and how to respond to them. “We want people to appreciate and listen to what we’re trying to say,” Yellow Old Woman said. “We’re not looking for 8 November 2021
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The Four Crest Dancers perform during opening ceremonies
a solution, but for appreciation. Listen to us. We have our own words and our own culture that we use. Listen to us and appreciate what we’re trying to say.” Other workshops included “Finding Our Stories” by Erica Azak, corps leader, Gitwinksihlkw, B.C., and Major Karen Hoeft, executive director at Regina’s Waterston Centre; and “The Land is a Dish” by Adrian Jacobs, Ganosono of the Turtle Clan, Cayuga Nation, who spoke about the importance of connecting with the land around us. Throughout the event, workshops were available to children and youth, including sessions on painting and the book Nibi’s Water Song by Sunshine Tenasco. During Sunday’s closing ceremonies, LeBlanc spoke again about living an abundant life, sharing from John 10:10: “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (NKJV). He shared the message that abundant life is not about the abundance of material things, but the abundance of God in people and how this connects us. “All peoples of the earth have been created for the same purpose—to seek after God,” LeBlanc said. “We might organize or structure our pursuit of the purpose differently, but we were created by the same Creator. His image and likeness are in us. We all possess the same spirituality.” Worship continued with a song by Travis Williams of the Gitxsan Nation in Gitsegukla, B.C., and a performance by the Four Crest Dancers. In honour of the 215 unmarked graves found at the former Kamloops Indian
Residential School, B.C., and more that continue to be uncovered across Canada, Brian Doerksen performed a song called 215, written by Cheryl Bear. “Within Indigenous communities, these are our children. Sons, daughters, sisters, brothers, grandchildren. They are our family,” said Major Russell. Major Russell presented Commissioners Tidd with a gift, a traditional Indigenous beadwork of the Salvation Army shield on moose hide, created by Captain Porter. In Indigenous culture, beading is a form of communication of histories, stories, identities and spiritual values. Later in the service, a memorial scholarship was announced in honour of Jordan Brown-Ratcliffe, son of Majors Wil and Catherine Brown-Ratcliffe, corps officers in Belleville, Ont., who passed away on December 22, 2019. The award will sponsor Indigenous young people to attend the Celebration of Culture each year. A video was shown celebrating the life of Jordan, and Majors Brown-Ratcliffe shared memories with Major Russell. “Over the past several years, this Celebration of Culture has become a significant event in the life of our territory and is one way we’re responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action,” said Commissioner Tracey Tidd in closing. “The Salvation Army seeks to walk the journey of reconciliation, to work toward justice and healing in our nation as we grapple with the truth of our history and ongoing relations with Indigenous Peoples.”
CHIEF PRIORITIES
The Great Feast This invitation is for everyone—especially those who are ignored, rejected and different. BY COLONEL EVIE DIAZ
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witness of Christ in us. Jesus’ prayer for unity doesn’t end with those near to me but reaches to all people, who need to know how much they are loved and valued by Jesus. Jesus’ banquet story in Luke 14 is a beautiful illustration of this. After the banquet invitation is rejected by the usual invited guests, the host extends the invitation to those who wouldn’t normally be invited to a feast at the master’s home: “ ‘Go quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and invite the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame.’ After the servant had done this, he reported, ‘There is still room for more.’ So his master said, ‘Go out into the country lanes and behind the hedges and urge anyone you find to come, so that the house will be full’ ” (Luke 14:21-23 NLT). This is the kind of banquet I want to be part of and, dare I say, represents who we are as a Salvation Army. To those who would never expect to be invited to any special event, we hold the invitation to a great party. In this banquet hall, all are welcomed and treated as treasured guests. Let’s talk practically. This feast is a metaphor for the church and, more specifically, our ministry units. Jesus is the host who invites all to join him and receive his
Colonel Evie Diaz is the chief secretary in the Canada and Bermuda Territory.
Photo: Gowtham/stock.Adobe.com
ne of my life values comes from Jesus’ prayer for all believers: “I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me” (John 17:23 NLT). I want to live my life so that the world will know who Jesus is and how much he loves them. One powerful way to do that is to live in unity. It’s a foreign quality for much of the world, sadly, including the church. Unity starts with me and is firstly about my relationship with Jesus—Jesus in me and me allowing him to direct my life. When my relationship with Jesus is right, there can be unity in my other relationships, beginning with those closest to me. If I cannot learn to love and work with my peers and my family, my witness will not be effective to the world. I don’t value unity for the sake of unity itself or to make my life easier; often it’s hard work. In a society where personal agendas are valued and individuality is celebrated, setting aside my own needs to be one with others is a witness to Jesus in me. Of course, I recognize and appreciate the uniqueness in others. Living in unity when we are different—that’s the challenge and the
welcoming presence. Does your corps or your ministry demonstrate the presence and love of Jesus? Do those who come into our centres leave feeling as though they have been welcomed and cared for? Is there an opportunity for them to meet and accept Jesus for themselves? The servants in this parable are you and me—the officers, employees, soldiers and volunteers who are engaged locally with The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda. We distribute the invitations to feast with Jesus as we hand out meals, clean the building, teach a class, offer advice and preach the sermon. Do those you encounter catch from you the joy of being with Jesus? Do they sense you have something special to share with them? Finally, the guests are all those who are in our communities. They are the clients who receive our services and the children who attend our programs. The guests are our neighbours, including the person experiencing homelessness down the street and the shop owner who sells us our morning coffee. The invitation is for everyone and especially those who are ignored, rejected and different. The Salvation Army was created to reach those who wouldn’t normally be welcomed. We still exist for that reason. Who are those people in your community? That’s my picture of unity—all of us around the same banquet table enjoying the presence of Jesus. Who should you invite? Jesus’ invitation is to anyone you can find. There is plenty of room at his banquet table.
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The Reflectors of Holiness are, from left, Cdts Jeremy and Stephanie Avery, Cdt Krishna McFarlane, Cdt Natalia DeBoer, Cdt Dunia Molinar Fehr, Cdts Miya Bradburn and Jeffrey Robertson, and Cdt Cori DeJeet
Reflectors of Holiness Welcomed Canada and Bermuda Territory recognizes new cadets and one auxiliary-captain as they begin officer training. BY PAMELA RICHARDSON
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ou are a critical part of God’s vision for The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory, as innovative partners, mobilized to share hope wherever there is hardship, building communities that are just and know the love of Jesus,” declared Commissioner Floyd Tidd, territorial commander, to the new cadets and officers in training of the Reflectors of Holiness Session. Livestreamed from Winnipeg’s Southlands Community Church, the service provided an opportunity for family, friends and Salvationists to come together virtually to welcome and recognize the eight Reflectors of Holiness cadets, including two cadets in field-based tailored training, and one recently accepted auxiliary-captain as they commenced their training to become officers in The Salvation Army. Pre-recorded greetings from the Messengers of Reconciliation, who began their second year of training in September, were followed by warm words of welcome from Colonel Evie Diaz, chief secretary. Additional pre-recorded messages from representative Salvationists from each of the territory’s eight divisions were included at the end of the service. Cadet Krishna McFarlane carried the sessional flag of the 10 November 2021
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Reflectors of Holiness as the cadets and newly accepted AuxCaptain Nancy Harrison marched into the auditorium and paused to salute the territorial leaders. In her presentation of the new officers in training, Captain Kristen Jackson-Dockeray, secretary for candidates, referred to them as “individuals who have listened for and listened to the voice of God, and in doing so, have found their life’s focus and purpose.” In his response, Lt-Colonel Brian Armstrong, secretary for personnel, encouraged the Reflectors of Holiness to see the communities where they will eventually serve through the eyes of Christ. “Reflect his holiness,” he said. Later in the service, Commissioner Floyd Tidd dedicated the sessional flag and the new officers in training to the glory of God. “We dedicate you to God’s purpose and the salvation of the world,” he said, emphasizing that as they move out into the world, they become the flag unfurled as they reflect the holiness of God. Cadet Cori DeJeet testified to the radical change that occurred within him when he rededicated his life to Christ during a period of personal suffering and brokenness. “Throughout his work of transformation in my life, God has instilled in me a deep passion
for the lost,” he shared. “He has given me an understanding of the beauty and simplicity of the gospel and the power it holds to transform lives for his glory.” In her message, Colonel Diaz spoke from 1 Thessalonians 1:8, reminding everyone that we all have a message to share. “If we want to be reflectors of holiness, our message is specific,” she said. “It’s not really our words or our opinions. It’s the Lord’s message, the gospel, the good news of Jesus.” The chief secretary then invited those gathered in person and online to engage in a period of prayer and reflection. Just before Major Les Marshall, divisional commander in the Prairie Division, pronounced the benediction, the retirement of Dr. James Read, executive director of the Ethics Centre and chair of the International Moral and Social Issues Council, was recognized by Colonel Diaz. Earlier in the weekend, Read was admitted to the Order of the Founder, The Salvation Army’s highest honour, by Commissioner Floyd Tidd on behalf of General Brian Peddle.
Cdt Cori DeJeet shares his spiritual journey that brought him to the College for Officer Training in Winnipeg
Photos: Symon Ptashnick
Colonel Evie Diaz shares from God’s Word
Cdts Stephanie and Jeremy Avery salute the territorial leaders
From left, Commissioner Tracey Tidd, territorial president of women’s ministries, Aux-Cpt Nancy Harrison and Commissioner Floyd Tidd share a moment together
The officers in training chorus, under the direction of Mjr Corinne Cameron, assistant training principal
“You are a critical part of God’s vision for The Salvation Army,” Commissioner Floyd Tidd tells the new officers in training
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From left, Elshika Hettiarachchi, Marla Warkentin and Jaylese Dziadek at a Booth University College open-house event
The Future Beckons As Booth University College enters its 40th year, exciting new initiatives will make the institution even more relevant for the next generation. BY KEN RAMSTEAD
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t’s really exciting to be at Booth University College right now!” says Lt-Colonel (Dr.) Susan van Duinen. The new president and vicechancellor is admirably positioned to know. This coming April, The Salvation Army’s Booth University College in Winnipeg will celebrate its 40th anniversary. From its modest beginnings as a Bible college, the institution has grown to become a nation-leading university college. But what does the future hold? “We’re at a point in time when we are looking at higher education through the lens of what’s next for Booth UC,” says Lt-Colonel van Duinen. Over the past year, the Governing Council of The Salvation Army also examined what Booth UC could do differently to serve the mission of the Canada and Bermuda Territory. “The Salvation Army is committed today to not only strengthening Booth 12 November 2021
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University College as it currently exists but to making sure that we continue to do so going forward,” states Lt-Colonel John P. Murray, territorial secretary for communications and new chair of Booth UC ’s Board of Trustees. “We want to
“We’re looking at creating a passport of learning.” —Lt-Colonel Susan van Duinen
position the school to grow through the lens of technology and determine how we can impact and connect with more people through the digital sphere. Whether that’s through offering more online courses through the School for
Continuing Studies or through our undergraduate programs, this is something we’re significantly committed to, not only as a Board of Trustees but as an institution.” Out of these deliberations arose three new initiatives. Learning Passport Booth UC has been tasked with launching a Corporate Learning Academy, where Salvation Army officers, employees and volunteers will be equipped and strengthened through learning and development, in a variety of capacities, to serve the mission and people. This is aimed exclusively at the Canada and Bermuda Territory. The Corporate Learning Academy will consist of a mixture of offerings, whether accredited courses, webinars on a specific topic, workshops or seminars. There will be a website, for instance, for the School for Continuing Studies and all the certificate programs that they offer.
“It will be a wonderful thing when all of these pieces can be gathered up and allocated in a one-stop shop for an employee or an officer,” says Lt-Colonel van Duinen. That person will be able to access a topic, such as human resources, and immediately access the courses or seminars. If someone is looking to develop certain skills, it will all be there, from managing conflict in the workplace to how to prepare a program proposal. “We’re looking at creating a passport of learning,” says Lt-Colonel van Duinen. Embracing the World Whereas the Corporate Learning Academy is geared toward a domestic audience, another new initiative of Booth UC, in conjunction with The Salvation Army’s International Headquarters (IHQ), aims to embrace the rest of the world. “Besides the Corporate Learning Academy, we’ve had inquiries from a variety of countries around the world: ‘Can you do this for our students?’ ” says Lt-Colonel van Duinen. “We’re committed to supporting the training and development of Salvation
Army officers around the world,” agrees Lt-Colonel Murray. “Our School for Continuing Studies is working to create learning management system platforms by which we can offer a variety of trainings,” continues Lt-Colonel van Duinen. The goal is to establish immediate, easy access and effective leadership development training from best practices, in partnership with IHQ. To support this, five new Booth UC board members have been recruited over the last few months, including Colonel (Dr.) Wendy Swan, who along with her husband, Colonel Ian Swan, are the territorial leaders in the Zambia Territory. Colonel Wendy Swan understands the intrinsic value of Booth UC to The Salvation Army, having served there for many years. “It’s a different way of supporting the mission,” says Lt-Colonel van Duinen, “by offering technology so that others will also have the knowledge. That’s going to be exciting for Booth UC.” Online Opportunities The third Booth UC initiative is to expand the school’s online capacity to include degree programs.
“The unpleasantness of COVID-19 has nevertheless given Booth UC the confidence that we can deliver more virtually, so we’re looking at putting our bachelor of social work program fully online,” explains Lt-Colonel van Duinen. “We’re in the midst of doing research to have a master of social work program for those students who want to continue their studies. And we’re looking at putting many of our current courses online.” Eventually, all of Booth UC’s offerings will also be offered online. Right Place, Right Time A soft launch of the Corporate Learning Academy will occur in June with a full launch scheduled for the fall semester of 2022. “Yes, it’s ambitious,” smiles Lt-Colonel van Duinen, “but we’re at a space and time in the life of Booth UC where we are agile, flexible and timely. And now is the time to offer some new ways for individuals to take advantage of developing skills and explore new areas of expertise, not only in the Canadian Salvation Army but around the Salvation Army world.”
Education for a Better World William and Catherine Booth University College, a Christian university college rooted in The Salvation Army’s Wesleyan theological tradition, brings together Christian faith, rigorous scholarship and a passion for service. The university college educates students to understand the complexities of our world, to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to be active contributors to society, and to know how Christian faith compels them to bring hope, social justice and mercy into our world. Booth UC student Jaden Castelli showcases one of his talents at a Booth UC coffee-house event
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Illustration: Melita/stock.Adobe.com
We’re Listening New diversity and inclusion strategist shares how the Army is moving toward equity. INTERVIEW BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN
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n February, the Canada and Bermuda Territory hired its first-ever diversity and inclusion strategist, Dr. Ellen Melis. In this interview, Melis talks about the process of developing an equity, diversity, justice and inclusion (EDJI) strategy for the territory, where the Army is making progress and why EDJI work can’t be done from ivory towers. Tell me about your background. How did you get into EDJI work?
I have a background in health care, executive coaching, and a PhD in leadership and change. It was through my doctoral work that I became deeply involved in equity, diversity and inclusion. My PhD was on long-term care and, specifically, on culture change in long-term care with a focus on personal support workers. I was studying in the United States where there were lots of conversations around inclusion and racism—particularly, how do we empower people who feel invisible or not heard? Once you get exposed to those conversations, it’s hard not to bring that lens with you in your future thinking. 14 November 2021
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What have you been working on since you started?
My job description is, essentially, creating an EDJI strategy. I’ve divided that into four projects. One is creating an organizational strategic imperative. In a for-profit organization, we call it the business case—why are you doing this? I’m creating that over the next few months, getting voices from across the country, from the perspective of volunteers, employees, officers and congregation members. And the second project is reviewing all of our policies and procedures with an EDJI lens. The third project is being done in partnership with the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI), developing an EDJI strategy for our National Recycling Operations (NRO). For that project, there are several phases. The first is to get all senior leadership up to date about what we mean by EDJI—getting acquainted with our unconscious biases and our cultural competence as a leadership team. The second part is collecting data on diversity and conducting an inclusion survey. That will start in the new year.
And then after that, we can do a gap analysis—looking at where we are now versus where we want to be—and develop a strategy. The NRO piece is a 12- to 15-month project. We expect to have that strategy written up by next September. We are starting with NRO because it’s like a unit within The Salvation Army, but the plan is to learn from that project and then expand to the entire organization. What’s the fourth project?
Certain parts of the organization fall under the Federal Contractors Program, meaning that we have to comply with the Federal Employment Equity Act. To do so, we need to collect data on gender, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities and visible minorities, and make sure that our workforce is moving toward equity. When it comes to EDJI, how do we measure success?
There are two components. One is, how diverse are you? That’s measuring what is. The more important measure for me is the inclusion aspect: How well
do people feel they belong? Do they feel they have a voice? Do they feel they have opportunities? And then looking at that gap analysis. Sometimes there’s a disconnect between what you think you’re doing and the actual practice. We need data to point out what needs to be improved and then we need tools and ways of thinking that help us shift. It’s a cultural change, on an organizational level. That’s the hard work. It’s not fast. This is a years-long process. What does that “hard work” look like in practice?
Inclusion is all about lived experience. You cannot judge how included other people feel because they see the world through their own lens. So sometimes the hard work is taking someone’s lived experience as their truth even though you don’t understand. A big piece is self-awareness. When I ask, Do you feel included? it means that I need to be aware that my voice may be heard differently by different people. If I grow up in a certain way of thinking and speaking, everyone who’s like me may not be hurt by it, but a person with a lived experience that’s different may hear that same sentence and it will land differently and they will not feel included. So how do we allow others to share their lived experience? A lot of it is storytelling, keeping in mind that with any EDJI work, it’s not up to the minority group to fix it. It’s all of our work. We need to do it with people, but it’s not their job. If we have more diverse teams, we’re going to hear voices and ideas that are not the same as ours, and that means we have to listen differently. We need to have better conversations and ask better questions. Sometimes we’ll get it right and sometimes we’ll get it wrong as we learn to understand what others need. What are some areas where we are making progress in EDJI?
One is gender equity for officers. The Gender Equity Task Force is set to make recommendations this fall, and there have already been changes made to the Army’s maternity leave policy for officers. Another area is elevating Indigenous voices as we build on the work of the territory’s Indigenous ministries consultants—Major Shari Russell and Captain Crystal Porter—
you have an army structure, there’s a hierarchy, and that means there’s a power difference. We need to be aware of that and we need to show up with even more grace and better questions than an organization that may not have that hierarchical, “action-oriented” background. I think many parts of the organization are doing that well, asking those who receive our services, What do you need? And how do you need it? It’s giving them choice and agency versus us saying, “This is what you should do.” Dr. Ellen Melis is the territory’s organization capability and EDJI strategist
and the Truth and Reconciliation Committee. Which areas need the most work?
We have an external perception of the organization within the LGBTQ2S+ community that is not necessarily positive. I think there is a big opportunity to show that the Army is not homophobic and that we are inclusive. We have LGBTQ2S+ employees and we serve everyone without discrimination. We have statements that say we are inclusive, but we don’t share the stories of how we are inclusive—we don’t talk about it at all—so stories about The Salvation Army not being welcoming live on. And so part of our work ahead is to make good partnerships with the LGBTQ2S+ community and understand their needs so that we can create an organization where they feel they belong. I believe we should have good dialogue on what inclusion means to different communities. Inclusion to the LGBTQ2S+ community at large might be articulated differently from the faithbased LGBTQ2S+ community, which might, in turn, be different than that of the congregation. How do we listen to different perspectives and understand them? By nature of being an army, there’s a certain expectation of conformity. How do we honour the army aspect of our identity, while also cultivating diversity?
The Salvation Army comes from an English perspective, which means doing good in action. Sometimes it may feel that this is done to people rather than with people. And when
As we’re having this conversation, I’m aware that we are two white people with various privileges, talking about diversity and inclusion. How do you take that into account in your EDJI work? How can others in our organization do that as well?
I saw a great quote recently that said, those of us in senior positions have the most power to change things and know the least about how to. So it comes back to, How do we listen deeply and include those who are different? You need to spend time with others to create understanding. It can’t be done from ivory towers. One of the things I want to do is create EDJI resource groups across the organization for those who identify as different—for example, people who are Black. The resource group would be a safe space for them to share and it’s not a white person leading it. When I worked with personal support workers, it was the lunchroom where people felt safe to share what they needed. Often, it’s not the boardroom. There will be conversations where I cannot be in the room, but I can certainly partner with people who are in the room and can transparently listen for concerns. For organizations that are just starting this work, that might feel risky, so it’s our job to create safety for people. Initially, you may see only a few brave souls speak. But hopefully, the conversations we have today will be different from the conversations we can have a year from now because we’ve made more safety for people to share what’s important to them. As part of the Army’s partnership with the CCDI, all Salvation Army employees have access to CCDI webinars and community of practice events. To learn more, visit ccdi.ca/eventcalendar/?category=Webinars and ccdi.ca/ community-of-practice-events/. Salvationist November 2021
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WITH THE
SALVATION ARMY
ROY THOMSON HALL
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11 AT 7:30 PM ET STREAMING LIVE @ SALVATIONIST.CA/CHRISTMAS
SPECIAL GUESTS:
Kathryn & Kyle Higgins FEATURING: Canadian Staff Band, Bandmaster John Lam Canadian Staff Songsters, Songster Leader Major Len Ballantine
Falling Short Let’s create a more just and equitable society.
Illustration: wildpixel/iStock via Getty Images Plus
BY AIMEE PATTERSON
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live in a country where racism thrives. According to a recent Statistics Canada report, between 2019 and 2020 the number of race-based hate crimes across Canada nearly doubled. While this change may reflect increased reporting by the public due to increased sensitivity after high-profile events, the total is stunning: 1,594. What do we mean when we talk about race and racism? Science shows that race is a social, rather than biological, construct. The Salvation Army’s International Positional Statement on Racism affirms this. Yet racism begins with the idea that some races are intrinsically superior to others. It’s an idea that is intrinsically wrong and results in unjust, harmful and hateful consequences. You and I probably don’t bear deep racist hatred. We may hold more subtle forms of racism, such as unconscious biases. These are attitudes that affect the way we feel about and act toward other people or groups of people. It is concerning that we can fail to notice these attitudes in ourselves particularly because they are out of line with our faith beliefs. Racism exists not only within individuals. Unconscious bias can be embedded
in our communities. Racism is built into the systems and structures that shape the ways we live and work. Whether we live in Canada or Bermuda, our race affects our access to higher education, employment opportunities and even health care. The Salvation Army acknowledges that we have sometimes shared in “the sins of racism”—that instead of disrupting systemic racism in our societies, we have conformed to it. The presence of racism hurts our Christian witness to non-believers. It undermines, rather than affirms, what we believe. And it is often difficult to acknowledge the sin of racism and seek forgiveness, both as individuals and as a corporate body. Scripture, too, has been co-opted for racist purposes. I think particularly about how Christian colonizers used “good news” to identify Indigenous Peoples and cultures as innately bad. But Scripture reveals a God who has created a diverse collection of people—a God who wants us to live unified in that diversity, building just and equitable relationships grounded in love. It is Christ’s own wounded body that reconciles all humanity with God and each other as a corporate body (see Ephesians 2:11-22). How then shall we live?
Active reconciliation requires that each of us intentionally engages our faith in God, trusting that God can transform what lies within us. We are called to search our hearts and consider where we have fallen short of God’s purposes for creation. Where might unconscious bias be showing up in my life? How can I become more alert to this and, with God’s help, change my attitudes and behaviours? As community, we need to ask other questions. How can we live as one body where there are no insiders and outsiders, no privileged and unprivileged? What should cause us to lament and repent? Who deserves an apology? With whom do we need to be reconciled? What local considerations should be taken into account when developing plans to address racism? Let’s join together and fight the evil of racism within us and around us. Let’s work with God to create a more loving, just and equitable society. Dr. Aimee Patterson is a Christian ethics consultant at The Salvation Army Ethics Centre in Winnipeg.
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Kathleen and Darren Thompson hold a picture of their son, Andrew, who passed away at 18 after a long struggle with an undiagnosed illness
From Five to Four Living in the shadow of illness and grief. BY GISELLE RANDALL
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t started the summer when Andrew was 12. He had a fever that wouldn’t go down and spent a week at the children’s hospital in St. John’s, N.L., where doctors discovered his white blood cell count was low. Several months later, after they had moved to Ontario, he had a nosebleed on the bus home from school. “We couldn’t get it to stop,” recalls his father, Darren Thompson. Their local hospital sent them to the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto right away. “That was the start of a five-year journey going back and forth to Sick Kids for weekly transfusions,” says Darren. “Sometimes we’d be there a few hours, sometimes he’d stay overnight. Every trip was an unknown.” Andrew’s illness overshadowed his adolescence, but at 18, he was looking forward, talking about getting his GED— it had been difficult for him to attend school regularly—and starting to plan his future. “He was just a boy trying to get his life back,” says Darren.
they realized it was more complicated than that. “It was an autoimmune disease, but they didn’t know what kind,” says his mother, Kathleen Thompson. “Each time a different blood group was affected, and so they kept chasing, trying to figure out what was going on.” As a preventive measure, Andrew had regular transfusions of gamma globulin, which decreases the immune system’s ability to attack itself, and was also put on high doses of a steroid, to control some of his symptoms.
Searching for an Answer Throughout Andrew’s teenage years, doctors struggled to pinpoint the underlying cause of his symptoms. At first, he was diagnosed with immune thrombocytopenia, a blood disorder characterized by a shortage of platelets—the cells that help stop bleeding. But over time,
Darren and Kathleen had to watch for fevers, as well as petechiae (clusters of small red or purple spots on the skin) around his wrists and ankles. Andrew also had nodules in his lungs that couldn’t be explained. Hospital staff called his lung X-ray “the snowstorm X-ray” because it was white instead of black.
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“I didn’t think it was fair. It was very hard to understand why he was taken from us.”
His illness affected the whole family, including his younger siblings, Leslie and Kyle, who struggled to live a normal life while their parents juggled work, medical appointments and hospital visits, and tried to help Andrew with his feelings of fear and anxiety. “Why Is He Going Through This?” In March 2010, after blood work, Andrew was admitted to St. Joseph’s Healthcare in Hamilton, Ont. “We didn’t know what we were dealing with,” says Darren. “They would start treating what they thought it was, but after a couple of days travelling down that road, they would back away and say, ‘No, it’s not this, we’ve got to change our strategy.’ ” About six weeks later, Andrew was diagnosed with leukemia and transferred to McMaster Hospital in Hamilton. “This is good,” Andrew responded. “Now they will be able to treat it.” But within a couple of days, the medical team advised that Andrew did not have leukemia, and the search for answers started again. When he was moved to the critical care unit (CCU) a week later, Kathleen was told he was very, very sick. She voiced the most difficult question any mother could ask. “Are you saying that Andrew could die?” She asked if their close family should be coming to Ontario from out
of province. The doctor replied that it would drive aimlessly, not caring where was probably a good idea. he ended up. Andrew was having trouble breathing, “Things started to eat away at me, to and his major organs were starting to destroy everything that felt normal,” he shut down. When they put him on kidney says. “I was struggling to make it through dialysis, his heart stopped. He went on the day.” life support at 11 a.m. on Sunday, May 9. Darren and Kathleen both grew up “It was supposed to give his body in The Salvation Army, but now Darren a break—to help him stabilize,” says started to question his faith. “Did I really Kathleen. “The doctor said he used up believe? Or was I just in the Army because all the tools in his toolbox.” my parents were?” “We said, ‘We love you,’ thinking that When Leslie and Kyle started to ask we’d see him again,” adds Darren. “We if he was OK, he felt even worse—that he knew things were serious, but we didn’t was failing as a husband and father. The realize he was terminally ill.” thought crept in that it might be easier As Andrew fought for his life in if he wasn’t around. the CCU, Darren stepped outside for a One evening, home by himself, he moment, overwhelmed. He raised his realized that the pill bottle on the counter fist to punch the concrete wall. Major was looking tempting. “When Kathleen Wilbert Abbott, their corps officer at the came home,” he recalls, “I said, ‘You’ve time, grabbed his hand. “That’s not going to do you any good, Darren,” he said. “Why is this happening?” Darren cried out. “Why is he going through this?” “We don’t know why,” Major Abbott replied. “And when the time comes to find out why, it won’t matter.” It’s the question at the heart of suffering, one that the Bible answers with another mystery— a God who came to be with us, who understands From left, Kyle, Andrew and Leslie and shares our suffering, who is present with us in our pain. All got to take me to the hospital. I’m afraid through Andrew’s illness, Majors Bertha I’m going to hurt myself.’ ” and Wilbert Abbott were present, a conAfter spending several days at a resistant source of encouragement. And they dential facility that offers specialized were there when he passed away later mental-health care, Darren returned that night. home, more stable, but still heartbroken. “That was the start of not wanting The Pain of Grief to attend church anymore,” he says. “It After Andrew’s death, they had to come felt hypocritical to go and sing and pray. to terms with being a family of four I was thinking, God, you might be there, instead of five. “We were forced to join but you took my son. So, I started to stay a club we didn’t sign up for,” Leslie says. home. And one week turned into two Darren slowly sank into depression. and then three. Next thing we knew, it “I was bitter and angry,” he says. “I was a few years.” didn’t think it was fair. It was very hard to understand why he was taken from us.” Cherishing Memories At work, driving a city bus, he had But as time passed, Darren realized he flashbacks of Andrew in the hospital, was ready to return—especially after draped in a white sheet. On days off, he moving back to Newfoundland and
Labrador last year, where they both grew up. Kathleen took a teaching position in Labrador City, and they started attending the Army corps. “I was hesitant at first, but after we started going, we made friends and got involved,” says Darren. “I came to the point where I realized that I need God to get through. And he’s letting me know in small ways that he’s taking care of me. A couple of weeks ago, it was like the words of one chorus were chosen just for me. It felt like he was beside me.” For Kathleen, faith has been a steady companion throughout her grief. A vision of Andrew walking toward the open arms of the Father has brought comfort. “Deep down, I always knew that Andrew was from God, and he was God’s,” she says. “I know he’s OK, where he is. I just have to deal with being OK where I am, without him.” Over the years, they have intentionally tried to cherish their memories of Andrew, to laugh together as a family. “We’ve really fought through a lot of our grief with humour, and remembering the fun times,” says Kathleen. Andrew was bright, compassionate and stubborn. He loved video games, rainy days and cheesy fries from Taco Bell. He was enrolled in a music program at a school of the arts. He loved Swiss Chalet, so they go every year on his birthday. He gave good hugs. “I still hurt—that’s not going to go away,” says Darren. “But Kathleen has said many times that she would rather have had Andrew for 18 years than to not have had him at all. That’s been hitting home. We had 18 great years. Wonderful years.” They are sharing their story in the hope that it might help someone else. “Maybe in talking about what we’ve gone through, and the difficulty we’ve had since Andrew’s been gone, it will help another family who’s lost a child, and doesn’t know where to turn,” say Darren and Kathleen. “Maybe our story is something that someone needs to hear.” Salvationist November 2021
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Photo: Scott Griessel/stock.Adobe.com
Reflections From a Boomer There must be more to seniors’ ministries than board games and bus trips. BY MAJOR SHIRLEY KING
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tatistics Canada records that seniors in Canada are a rapidly growing segment of the population, and that they are living longer and healthier lives than previous generations. In 2014, more than six million Canadians were aged 65 or older, representing 15.6 percent of Canada’s population. By 2030, seniors will number more than 9.5 million and make up 23 percent of the Canadian population. Additionally, by 2036, the average life expectancy for women will rise to 86.2 years from the current 84.2 and to 82.9 years from the current 80 for men. In my research for writing this article, I pulled faded papers from a filing cabinet in my office at divisional headquarters and realized we have had this statistical information sitting at our fingertips for years. I read statements such as “It is time for the church to wake up to the great ministry potential of seniors.” The next paragraph implied that the church’s outreach traditionally focused on children, youth and young adults, and that church leaders wrongly assumed seniors were already in church or that they had become hardened to the gospel. The conclusion was that most programs for seniors do not provide enough ways for them to be involved in the life of the church. As we consider the growing number of older adults in our communities, we must seek ways to affirm love, justice and mercy in ministry opportunities for them. How do we ensure dignity and respect in the execution of our visions and plans for strategic and meaningful ministry expressions to, for, by and with seniors? How are we defining ministry to the older adult in our plans for innovative and intentional ministries in our corps and community outreach? Is what 20 November 2021
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we are doing on the local level designed to embrace older adults in our ministry units? A Good Work Of course, we will want to affirm from the grandstands of our ministry units that a good work has already been done in kingdom building and in ministries that embrace the aging population. Beautiful stories of Christian caring and ministry impact are emerging from the heat of the pandemic that represent the best of the Army’s ministry “to” and “for” older adults. Seniors separated from family and friends were touched by phone calls, letters, cards, porch drop-offs of food parcels and personal gifts from community care ministries groups, corps officers and fellow Salvationists. Residents of the Army’s long-term care homes were ministered to by caring staff and volunteers. Guests of The Salvation Army Mountberry Adult Day Program in Hamilton, Ont., were able to stay connected and active via Zoom calls. Thanks to the staff’s innovation in program delivery, guests and their caregivers received much-needed contact and connection during the days of isolation and uncertainty. But have you given much thought to the Army’s ministry “by” and “with” older adults? Perhaps I am intrigued and challenged about this as I realize I am in that growing number of people who are eligible for seniors’ discounts at the local pharmacy. How could this have happened? I am not ready for a rocking chair, and neither are many of my fellow boomers! Board games and bus trips just won’t cut it. This generation wants their life journey to continue to be intentional, innovative and targeted, and their retirement to be a time of reinventing, redefining, re-emerging, reinvesting and retooling.
A Natural Part of Living As we continue in this new era, it is essential for us to remember to ask what the needs of this growing demographic are. Let’s not assume that we know the answer without having the conversation and connecting with the voices who have so much to offer. The older adult is looking for meaningful ministry opportunities where mentoring relationships are developed, program engagement is valued and leadership opportunities are accessible. The fields are white for the church to reach out with intentional ministry that embraces the gifts, skills and needs of the older adult in the congregation’s total mission. Ministry is not confined to the
This past summer, Mjr Shirley King (right) travelled to her home province of Newfoundland and Labrador where she shared many happy moments, like the one captured here, with her mother, Beryl Braye, 85, at Carmelite House, a long-term care facility in Grand Falls-Windsor, N.L.
early or middle years of life. Ministry spans a whole lifetime, and this includes evangelizing, discipling, serving and giving hope to all generations. We acknowledge that life is a gift from God and understand that aging is a natural part of living. It is inevitable that one day we will all be there. And as we are arriving, we will know that God’s love for all people is unconditional, that no one lies outside the magnitude of God’s love, and no one is forgotten. We must hold close to our heart that the Christian community, the object of God’s love embodied in Christ, includes the older generations and is the channel through which this love flows through to all human beings, young and old alike. Ministry is age inclusive! In this postpandemic world, I would like to think that we are being called to reimagine what ministry looks like to, for, by and with older adults in this tsunamic time of change, both demographically and missionally. A Powerhouse of Warriors I remember being at Jackson’s Point Conference Centre, Ont., with a group
of older adults during an annual seniors’ retreat. The planning committee had meticulously and enthusiastically designed a retreat that was intentional and, yes, innovative! During the days together I was privileged to listen to conversations, share in the worship and Bible study sessions, experience the eagerness of our guests to participate in giving to missions, singing, praying and participating in the learning sessions. I was stirred and strengthened within my own spirit as I recognized that I was sitting with a powerhouse of warriors who collectively brought hundreds of years of experience, and I wondered how we could harness that power. Older adults have much to teach us, not only about aging, but about life and faith. We are being called to break free from the paralyzing grip of stereotypical thinking of the aging community, to develop exciting, challenging, intentional and innovative ministry opportunities to, for, by and with seniors. With God’s help, the sky’s the limit! Major Shirley King is the divisional adult ministries secretary in the Ontario Division.
What level of engagement opportunities exist in your corps, centre or community ministries for older adults? • What preconceived thinking exists about the older adult population? • How are you engaging, empowering and encouraging the older adult population in kingdom building? • How are the spiritual and emotional needs of the older adults being met in your ministry? • What gifts and graces are being used to develop intentional ministry to, for, by and with older adults? • How are you responding to the inevitable tsunami of an aging landscape with innovative and intentional ministry? • How can you tap into the growing resource of older adults to develop comprehensive, meaningful, agespecific ministries? • What can be done on a local level to understand and prepare for this change in age demographics?
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Behind Barbed Wire As the Second World War raged, a Salvation Army officer fought her own private struggle against the enemy.
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anadian Salvation Army officer Major Margaret Burns was serving as a missionary in Singapore when her life took a dramatic turn on December 8, 1941, the day after the attack on Pearl Harbor. On that day, Japanese forces occupied Singapore. The following are excerpts from Major Burns’ reflections, Japanese Invasion and Internment in Singapore. Invasion and Internment All around, the silence could be felt in the air that something was wrong. Four o’clock in the morning, the first bombs were dropped in Singapore. People began running to and fro, not knowing where to go for shelter. Colonel Bertha called to me, “Hurry up, get up, we are in the middle of a war!” Salvation Army officers were rounded up and sent to a holding compound where food was scarce, malnutrition universal. Then, on March 8, 1942, prisoners were awakened for the arduous journey to their prison camp. We are made to stand in line and be counted and re-counted. Finally, we set off, six deep and a sentry at the end of each row with fixed bayonets. This march was 10 miles, blazing hot in the eastern sun. Prison Life Finally, we arrived at the prison. As I came to the gates, I heard officers and other Christian personnel singing: “Except I am moved with compassion, how dwelleth thy Spirit in me. In word and in deed, burning love is my need: I know I can find this in thee.” A peace came over my soul. The Christians were 22 November 2021
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praying for us. God was indeed there, even though all was confusion. Now the gates are locked, and freedom is gone. The prison was originally built to hold 600 inmates. We were crowded in, 3,600. The building was filthy. We were assigned to a space of three feet, three to a cell. Many times, I went hungry. Medical care was rare. People suffered in agony and hopelessness without treatment or medication. Suicide was an all-too-common release.
Engaging in Ministry The first Sunday in camp, I gathered the boys and girls and we went into this place called the Rose Garden, which was just by the Japanese offices. I taught them the chorus, “God make my life a little light, within this world to glow! A little light that burneth bright, wherever I may go.” This we sang over and over until they had learnt it by heart. Halfway through, the camp commandant came to me and said, “You cannot
“Many times, I went hungry.” —Major Margaret Burns
Exercising Her Faith In the midst of the intimidation and cruel treatment, prisoners were often punished severely for simply addressing the guards. One day, while crossing the courtyard, Major Burns called out to a sentry who was not in his regular place. As he returned to his spot, she demonstrated remarkable courage by bowing her head and proceeding across the compound to the hospital. A male Salvation Army officer who witnessed the incident approached Major Burns and asked, “Were you not afraid?” No, at that moment there was no fear because I had assurance of the presence of the Lord. “In the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me” (Psalm 27:5 KJV). There was my shelter!
stay here because the Japanese offices are here.” I informed her that we had not prayed yet so we could not finish, and besides, it might do the guards good! From that courageous and determined stand, not only did the Sunday school continue but church services commenced as well. This continued throughout the duration of the internment. Life-Altering Injury One day, I slipped and injured my spine. I lay in great pain but there was no medication to relieve it. After several days, the pain grew worse and it was decided that I should enter the hospital, which was situated in the dungeon of the prison, with only a small window in it, but this was the only place where there were beds. Over the next few weeks and several
excruciating journeys to the doctor, Major Burns was diagnosed with a severe spine injury and fitted with a full body plaster cast from neck to hips, one leg from ankle to thigh, and one arm from wrist to shoulder. Though this cast was to have been checked and removed a few months later, she remained in it and in the prison hospital until her release more than three years later. Release Just before the end, things got very bad. Bombing and shelling commenced, casualties occurred. A piece of shell hit the window sill next to my bed. God, in many miraculous ways, preserved my life. One morning, I saw our men throw down their picks and shovels and then begin to run. We did not know if it was good news or bad. However, it was good news for the internees. The Allies had come to liberate us, and the doctor brought one of the airmen into the ward to prove to us patients that at last we were free. Postwar Recovery At a skeletal weight of 75 pounds, Major Burns was told by doctors that she might never walk again, but she did. After months of intensive therapy and convalescence, she was strong enough to go home to Canada and a joyous celebration with her family. Her gruelling recovery eventually permitted her to fulfil her dream to return to her beloved Singapore. Eventually, ill health caused her to retire to Canada. For her bravery and courage, she received a letter from King George VI in 1945. And at the 1982 Canadian Centennial Congress, she was presented the Certificate of Exceptional Service by General Jarl Wahlström. In the conclusion of her journal in 1979, Major Burns wrote: Yet through all these ordeals, God never let me down. He protected me and brought me through safely. I look back over life and know that one of the greatest blessings is that the future is in his hands. We know not what the future holds but we know who holds the future. Praise God from who all blessings flow. Reprinted from The Crest, Fall 2020 and Winter 2021
A post-war photo of Mjr Margaret Burns. “Through all these ordeals, God never let me down”
Prisoners of war in Changi
Changi Prison in Singapore today
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INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Love in Action Giving our best through Gifts of Hope. BY LT-COLONEL BRENDA MURRAY
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n February 2020, the world began to shift as the COVID-19 pandemic grew. Since then, so much has changed. People quickly moved to working remotely, wearing masks, limiting travel and washing our hands more than we ever have. In the suffering, grief and isolation caused by a global pandemic, where can we find hope? I would argue that it is in challenging times like this that hope springs forth, pushing its way through the cracks of society in small gestures—a smile, a phone call, a card, a gift. Hope shines light in the darkness. Hope is believing that “something good might happen,” as defined by the Oxford Dictionary; that something positive will come out of our experience. In Matthew, Jesus taught his disciples about the revolutionary hope of the kingdom of God: “ ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible’ ” (Matthew 19:26). All things are possible, but we have an active part to play. We were born into community; we were, and are, meant to be together. And in being together, in supporting one another, we help to break down the silos of isolation. Over the past year, through the Gifts of Hope program, you have helped to bring hope to neighbours beyond our borders. Republic of Congo
Mozambique
Play time in Xai Xai, Mozambique
Hope is having a safe place to play. When a storm ripped through the community of Xai Xai in Mozambique and tore down their outdoor play structure, it rendered them non-compliant with local government requirements. As our partner territory, they reached out to see if the Canada and Bermuda Territory could support a small project to rebuild this structure. American television host Fred Rogers once said, “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning, but for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” Through Gifts of Hope—Where Needed Most, we were able to source the funds and this project is now underway. Zambia
Students learn to sew at a Salvation Army vocational training program in the Congo (Brazzaville) Tty
Hope is the ability to support yourself and your family by starting your own business. This past year, 40 students graduated from a vocational training program in tailoring in the Congo (Brazzaville) Territory. At the graduation ceremony, they received a special gift of a tailoring kit. Imagine being in the situation of completing your training, but not having the resources to take the next big step of setting up your own business. The kits included a new sewing machine for each graduate. By offering tailoring services to their neighbours, the women will be able to generate income to support their families. In addition, at the end of the ceremony, the graduates expressed their desire to form a co-operative to support one another in their businesses. This holistic project was funded through Gifts of Hope—Hope Through Education. 24 November 2021
Salvationist
Students at Chaanga Secondary School in Zambia are learning how to grow crops as part of the WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) project
Hope is the gift of training, drought-resistant seeds and tools. In Zambia, the main purpose of the WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) project, funded by Canada and Bermuda, the Switzerland Territory and The Salvation Army World Service Office, was to improve the health and livelihoods of five communities. One of the objectives to achieve this goal was to increase the nutritional condition of vulnerable individuals and families through
INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
training and the establishment of institutional and family gardens. The outcome? School gardens in the communities of Shimbizhi and Chaanga provided food for a feeding program, benefiting more than 1,500 pupils. While students learned how to grow crops, they were also physically nourished by those crops. This is sustainability. The funds for our portion of this project came from your generous donations to Gifts of Hope—Hope Through Farming. Haiti
The Salvation Army provides food and shelter after an earthquake hit Haiti in August 2021
Hope is someone coming alongside you and providing food and shelter in a time of crisis. The global pandemic has disrupted life as we know it, but some countries have faced even more tragedy. In August 2021,
Haiti was hit with a 7.2-magnitude earthquake. During the initial needs assessment, a member of the team, Mondesir Henderson, saw signs of hope. “People put barricades of rocks and debris to prevent vehicles from entering the perimeters,” he explained. “It is out of solidarity that people are trying to overcome the challenges, each one sharing with others.” The Salvation Army quickly moved into action, responding with care and physical support. In this instance, hope was evidenced in food and shelter being provided to individuals and families left homeless by this tragic event. Gifts of Hope—Hope Through Communities funds these types of projects and allows the Canada and Bermuda Territory to jump into action quickly. Mobilized to Share Hope The Christmas season brings with it a time of giving and thinking of others. It replicates the gifts that the Wise Men presented to the baby Jesus. It symbolizes our acts of kindness and surrender. We give our best. Our new vision statement says that “we are an innovative partner, mobilized to share hope wherever there is hardship, building communities that are just and know the love of Jesus.” What could be better than to purchase a gift of hope for someone you love today, that will provide a glimmer of hope to a neighbour beyond our borders? Are you mobilized to share hope this season? Visit salvationarmy. ca/giftsofhope. Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray is the director of international development..
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We started as a family business, and ever since we’ve been in the business of keeping families protected. Group Home & Auto Insurance Program for members of The Salvation Army including Officers and Soldiers. Since we began in 1981 Deeks Insurance has always treated our customers like family. Deeks provides Salvation
Proud to partner with
Army members including Officers and Soldiers access to preferred rates, 24/7 emergency claims support, and friendly customer service.
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Deeks Insurance is a tradename of D.L. Deeks Insurance Services Inc., a licensed insurance intermediary and operates as Deeks Insurance Services in British Columbia. Home and auto policies primarily underwritten by Unifund Assurance Company (“Unifund”). Car insurance coverage not available in BC, MB or SK. Home and car insurance coverage not available in QB, NWT, NU, or YK. Other insurance products are underwritten by various insurance providers. Deeks Insurance and Unifund share common ownership. Eligibility requirements, limitations, exclusions or additional costs may apply, and/or may vary by province. Deeks Insurance and logo is a trademark of D.L Deeks Insurance Services Inc.
MOBILIZE 2.0
Forging stronger internal and external partnerships helps us maximize mission outcomes.
I
f you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together. Going together is the essence of partnership. The new Canada and Bermuda territorial vision statement begins, “We are an innovative partner….” And our territorial leaders, Commissioners Floyd and Tracey Tidd, have continually emphasized the importance of “partnership in the gospel” (see Philippians 1:3-6). It’s no surprise, then, that another pillar of the territorial strategic plan is to “forge stronger partnerships.” What does partnership look like for The Salvation Army? We’ll know we are good partners when:
non-partisan relationships at all levels and align ourselves with government objectives where we are experts in the social mission field. The Salvation Army is looking for a seat at the table with government and other funders in order to secure long-term funding for our core programs and to advocate more broadly.
• Internal processes support mission • Strategic partnerships serve mission goals • We pursue knowledge and understanding of spiritual and social issues to develop solutions, ideas and thought leadership Being a good partner means putting aside protectionist and isolationist tendencies, without losing the essence of who we are as a church and social mission agency. Graham Moore, assistant chief secretary for organizational development, notes, “We will advance much further, help more people and be a greater transforming influence when we work together rather than trying to do everything on our own.” Of course, if we want to partner well externally, we need to be able to partner well internally. Avoiding internal “silos” can help maximize our effectiveness. For this reason, territorial headquarters is creating a formal internal communications function to act as a catalyst to strengthen consistency of messaging and the effective use of communications channels to reach our people. Well coordinated communication leads to better mission outcomes. Government is also a critical consideration when it comes to partnership. Our goal is to continue building strong,
More than 34 percent of The Salvation Army’s $1 billion yearly revenue comes from government funding. Dani Shaw, director of public affairs, notes, “Our territorial strategy provides us an opportunity to work together to advance the mission and vision, strengthen existing relationships while building new ones, and engage more intentionally in dialogue about government policies that affect the communities we serve.” In some cases, this new emphasis will mean partnering with other social service providers on projects where we are not the primary service provider but may have shared goals. The ultimate aim is to bring holistic outcomes for people, recognizing that the Army cannot be all things to all people in every circumstance. “While securing funding for The Salvation Army is still a top priority, our funders don’t want to see us always competing with other not-for-profits;
Forge Stronger Partnerships
they want to see collaboration,” notes Lt-Colonel John Murray, territorial secretary for communications. “Governments give more credence to proposals when they are made in partnership with other agencies with their respective specialties.” Lt-Colonel Murray cites a collaboration at the beginning of the school year between The Salvation Army, Joe Fresh and Baffinland Iron Mines that saw 750 students in Igloolik, Nunavut, provided with clothing. When one of the local teachers recognized the need, The Salvation Army reached out to Joe Fresh, a division of Loblaw Companies Ltd., who donated clothing, and Baffinland Iron Mines, who had a presence in Igloolik and offered transportation. “It’s only because of that partnership that so many families received assistance,” says Lt-Colonel Murray. “We couldn’t have done it in isolation.” A final area that is addressed by this pillar is our potential to influence public policy through evidence-based research, while ensuring we retain our Christian voice. As an Army, we want to be seen as “experts” in policy issues that are aligned with the work we do, and where we can contribute to the conversation on broader societal issues. Focusing on what we’re best at gives us even more credibility with funders and wider exposure in the public square. “We need to be intentional about identifying where need is the greatest and how we can be most effective,” concludes Commissioner Floyd Tidd. “We want everything we do in partnership to be aligned to our mission and vision. By playing to our strengths, we can ensure we make long-term, sustainable commitments to transforming communities through practical assistance and sharing the love of Jesus.” Salvationist November 2021
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Illustration: nazarkru/iStock via Getty Images Plus
Stronger Together
GRACE NOTES
Other Vibes Allowed How to respond to a world of toxic positivity. BY CAPTAIN LAURA VAN SCHAICK
H
ow are you feeling today?” Last year, my son’s teacher asked this at the end of every day of online kindergarten. Most days I listened to my sweet, resilient boy share that he was happy. But one day, I knew he’d been struggling. He shared with me during a recess break that he really didn’t like online school, that he missed playing with his friends and that he just wished the “stupid virus” never came. I held him as his tears fell hot and heavy on his cheeks. I agreed that online school wasn’t much fun, and that it was OK to miss his friends. A few minutes later the tears stopped, and I asked him how he was feeling. “Still sad,” he responded, and I assured him that was OK. Sometimes I feel sad, too. Not more than 30 minutes later, when prompted to share about his feelings with his teacher, he plastered a fake smile on his face and declared to his class, “I feel happy because I like online school.” Wait, what? After school, I asked my son why he had answered the way he did. Had his feelings changed? “No,” he replied, “but my teacher doesn’t like when we aren’t happy.” I encouraged him to tell the truth about his feelings next time. What was the point of a feelings check-in if you couldn’t be honest? Wasn’t that what it was for? So the next day, my son did just that. Bravely, he shared with his class that he, in fact, didn’t like online school and that not being in class with his friends made him feel sad. My mommy-heart cheered him on. “Yes! Way to go!” His teacher’s response, however, broke my heart. She answered, “Oh, no, you mustn’t feel sad. You need to be happy to be at online school.” Which is quite sad. I fear my son’s experience is not unique. We live in a culture of toxic positivity that thrives off memes that quip, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” and T-shirts that read, “Good Vibes Only.” Some feelings are easier to bear than others, but trying to exist in a “Good Vibes Only” 28 November 2021
Salvationist
Photo: ThitareeSarmkasat/iStock via Getty Images Plus
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world isn’t realistic or healthy. There are lots of vibes in the world, some of them positive, many of them negative, a surprising number of them neutral. And while society likes to label some emotions as “good” and other emotions as “bad,” all emotions are God-given and good for us. Researcher and author Brené Brown argues that we cannot selectively numb emotions. When we numb the painful emotions such as sadness, anger and disappointment, we also numb the positive emotions. We would never want to numb our bodies of physical touch. We enjoy feeling pleasant things, such as the sun warm on our faces, the embrace of a loved one or our favourite cozy blanket, but we also need to feel pain to protect ourselves from further harm. In the same way that aches and pains tell us about the body, emotions tell us about our spirit. We need to pay attention to them. Peter Scazzero, author of Emotionally Healthy Spirituality, agrees. “Ignoring our emotions is turning our back on reality,” he writes. “Listening to our emotions ushers us into reality. And reality is where we meet God. Emotions are the language of the soul. They are the cry that gives the heart a voice.”
Jesus modelled this for us during his time of earthly ministry. In the Gospel accounts of his life, we see Jesus described as being full of joy as he converses with his disciples (see Luke 10:21), as righteously angry when he sees money-changers in the temple (see John 2:13-17; Matthew 21:12-17), as fatigued after a long day of ministry (see Mark 6:31), and as agonized and afraid as he prepares himself in the Garden of Gethsemane for his impending death (see Luke 22:42). Jesus even felt sadness, weeping at the tomb of his friend, Lazarus (see John 11:35). Jesus felt a full spectrum of emotions during his time on earth, and probably continues to feel these emotions as he interacts with and intercedes on behalf of the world today. How are you feeling? Whatever your heart is feeling today, let yourself feel it. Jesus knows what it is like to feel the way you do, and he feels it, too. After all, God made us in his image, able to feel deeply. So, here’s to all the vibes—good, negative or otherwise. Because, with God, all vibes are welcome. Captain Laura Van Schaick is the divisional secretary for women’s ministries in the Ontario Division.
PEOPLE & PLACES
TRIBUTES
REGINA—The corps at Regina Haven of Hope Ministries took Sunday worship to Central Park in September to celebrate the return to in-person worship following a hiatus of more than a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Invitations to the “Back to Church” event were included in 500 backpacks distributed to community families in August and the sound of the Salvation Army band drew residents of the surrounding apartment buildings. Cpt Kristen Gray, CO, shared the mission statement of The Salvation Army and about the transforming power of the gospel message. Following the service, corps and community members enjoyed hot dogs and refreshments prepared by the Haven of Hope women’s ministries planning team. From left, Leah Tang, leader of the women’s ministries planning team, Mjr Cheryl Atkinson and Fred Atkinson stand ready to serve refreshments following the worship service. EDMONTON—Thanks to an ongoing partnership between Edmonton Crossroads CC and Edmonton Centre of Hope, a third annual community barbecue took place this past summer, complete with face-painting, balloon animals and live music. Having served as many as 700 people at this yearly event, Salvation Army personnel are grateful for the continuing support of volunteers from Edmonton Valley Line LRT who help make the day a fun-filled occasion for everyone. Edmonton Valley Line LRT staff also volunteer at the Army’s annual WinterFeast event in February.
GAZETTE INTERNATIONAL Appointments: Comr Jane Paone, secretary for international ecumenical relations, IHQ; Col Wendy Swan, chair, International Moral and Social Issues Council, IHQ (additional responsibility); Lt-Cols Masilamony/Y S Kezial Stalin, CS/TSWM, India Central Tty TERRITORIAL Births: Cpt Bethany/Lt Brian Dueck, daughter, Llewella, Sep 14; Lts April Barthau/Marco Herrera Lopizic, son, Elijah William Lopizic-Barthau, Sep 20 Appointments: Mjr Roxzena Hayden, DROS, Ont. Div (designation change); Mjr Shirley King, DAMS, Ont. Div; Mjr Tracy Savage, DSWM, Ont. Div; Lt David Haggett, DROS, Maritime Div; Aux-Cpt Charles Okongo, chaplain, Winnipeg Centre of Hope, Prairie Div; Aux-Lt Mirna Dirani, CO, Erin Mills, Mississauga, Ont. Div; Jan 2022—Cpts Christopher/Nicole Maxwell, COs, Kingston Citadel, Ont. Div (from Australia Tty) Long service: 40 years—Mjr Elaine Braye, Mjr Velma Preston Retirements: Oct 1—Cpt Mary Maybury; Nov 1—Mjr Dennis Brown, Mjr Tim Jenkins Promoted to glory: Mjr James Smith, Sep 11; Mjr James Amos, Sep 13; Cpt Herbert Goodridge, Sep 17; Mjr Joan Stratton, Sep 26
CALENDAR Commissioners Floyd and Tracey Tidd: Nov 21-22 CFOT
TORONTO—Major James Frederick Smith was a third-generation Salvationist born to loving Christian parents. In his early years, he attended West Toronto, Wychwood and Mount Dennis Corps, from which he entered training and was commissioned as a member of the Soul Winners Session in 1955. After his marriage to Lieutenant Joan Hunter in 1957, they served for 21 years as corps officers in Ontario and Alberta, then in various social services appointments. Retiring in Toronto in 1996, they attended Scarborough Citadel, where they were actively involved in the shepherding program. For many years, Jim was also a valued member of the Singing Pilgrims, a male-voice singing group based in Toronto. He was known as a sensitive, caring man who loved God and always ministered with grace and compassion to all with whom he came into contact. Promoted to glory in his 91st year, he is missed by his loving wife of 64 years, Joan; brother, Ronald; sister, Joy Van Herwaarde; sons Major Kenneth (Beverley), David (Anna) and Robert (Heather); grandchildren Stephanie (Paul) Burger, Colin, Captain Megan (Elisha) Moretz, Jeremy (Ben Hanson), Laura and Amy; great-grandchildren Alison and Lawrence Moretz.
LANGLEY, B.C.—Major James Charles Richard Amos was born in 1917 in Brantford, Ont., as the eldest of three children. Jim moved to Toronto in 1941 to train as a Salvation Army officer and was commissioned as a member of the Steadfast Session. Following commissioning, Jim was posted to Saskatchewan for four years. Married to Dorothy (Gratto) in 1945, they served in a variety of ministry settings in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia, including as corps officers and in social services and administrative appointments. They retired from Vancouver in 1982 and moved to Chilliwack, B.C., to be near their son and his family. Remembered as a loving husband, father and grandfather, Jim had a passion for his Saviour and those in need, and a deep abiding love for his family. He loved travelling, reading and Bible study, and was always ready and willing to share fascinating stories from his remarkable life. Predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Dorothy, Jim is survived by his son, Rowland (Elena); grandchildren Emily (Jason), Jamie (Loni) and Marie (Galen); sister, Dorothy; eight great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Mjr Rene Loveless, DSPR, N.L. Div, was on hand to thank members of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association, Chapter NL-A, and other individual bikers who joined them for the 27th annual Toys for Tots ride in St. John’s. Thanks to a long-standing partnership with the association and the generosity of community members who collect toys and monetary donations for children, The Salvation Army can continue to support people in need during the Christmas season. From left, Bruce Coish, Wendy Coish, Mark Williams, Dale Williams, Don Dawe as Santa, Charles Cook, Andrea Cook, Lez Snow and Mjr Rene Loveless. Salvationist November 2021
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SALVATION STORIES
All Things Are Possible God protected my life during the genocide in Rwanda. BY FRANCINE TUYISHIME INGABIRE coming to Canada, so I could get better health care. I was hoping it would increase my chances of living longer. In January 2010, God helped me to get a visa. He transformed my life by allowing me to come to Canada and build a better future. God made the impossible happen. In Canada, I played on the worship team at my mother’s church, and that’s where I met my husband. Due to health issues, I thought that I would never be able to start a family. God gave me a loving husband and two wonderful children. Eighteen months after the birth of my second child, I learned that my son was autistic. I thought that it was a curse, but God made me realize that it was a blessing. While taking care of my son, I discovered the joy and the gift of working with children. Francine Tuyishime Ingabire and her family
I
was born in a Christian family in Cyangugu, Rwanda. I was about a year old during the genocide, and my mother was holding me in her arms when a man tried to kill her with a knife to her throat. We survived because God told my father to leave work to check on us. My mother was traumatized for years. We lost contact with the rest of our family, and it was also many years before we found out that some of them were still alive. When I was nine, my father became ill and died. My mom struggled to care for four children on her own and made the difficult decision to send my brother and older sisters to France, where they could study and live comfortably. The separation was full of emotions but that’s the way it had to be. At 14, when I was at school in Uganda, my mom told me she was going to Canada
so she could send for us later. I was afraid, but I had to accept the fact that I was on my own and try to find a way to survive. Soon I was alone, homeless and starving. All I could do was believe that God would take care of me and give me strength. That’s when I came to know him, as he protected me and helped me to find food and shelter.
“All I could do was believe that God would take care of me and give me strength.”
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When I found out I was HIV-positive, I was devastated. I had so many questions. How? I called my mom, who told me she was also HIVpositive, but she didn’t really want to talk about it. My heart was full of sadness. I was lonely, sick and scared. I had to hide my pain and my medication, to pretend that everything was OK. I had to find a way to get my medication without being seen or recognized. I started looking at the possibility of
My husband told me about The Salvation Army, how they help poor, lonely and suffering people. I wanted to learn more. We joined The Salvation Army in Montreal, where we received teachings based on the Word of God about love, obedience to the Lord and faith accompanied by deeds. I discovered a God that is living, loving and compassionate. We decided to become senior soldiers and we play music on the worship team. At Nouveaux Départs Community Church, I see the love and light of God at work. Day after day, the corps officer and volunteers serve the needy with joy and compassion despite their concerns regarding the pandemic. To be in the light of God is to be able to help your neighbours by volunteering or working in the field of social services. I enjoy taking care of children at Sunday school and sharing Christian values with pupils in public schools by reading stories to them. To be in the light of God is to love our neighbours unconditionally and listen to them with joy and discretion. To be in the light of God is to get closer to him through prayer so we can know his will and not ours.
To Donate: 1. Online at salvationarmy.ca/giftsofhope 2. Phone 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769) and quote “Gifts of Hope” 3. Mail in the order form below
A GIFT GUARANTEED TO MAKE A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE Hope Through Farming
Hope Through Health Help families and communities live healthier lives in rural locations that have little or no access to health care.
Help individuals and families grow bountiful harvests so communities can thrive. $25 Chickens (GH-0012) $30 Pig (GH-0002) $40 Goat (GH-0001) $50 Plant a Garden (GH-0013) $50 Share of Train a Farmer (GH-0016) $100 Train a Farmer (GH-0016)
$40 $50 $15
Hope Through Education
Water and Sanitation (GH-0007) Family Health (GH-0008) Mosquito Net (GH-0006)
Hope Through Communities
Learning is a lifelong journey. Give the tools to help write a success story!
Help communities grow, work and play together as they move towards a better future.
$40 $25 $100 $65 $130
$30 $30 $25
Children’s Education (GH-0004) Ministry Resources (GH-0020) Adult Literacy (GH-0005) Share of Vocational Training (GH-0015) Vocational Training (GH-0015)
Sports and Recreation (GH-0019) Disaster Relief (GH-0008) Eco-Friendly Resources - ECO-COOKERS AND SOLAR LIGHTS (GH-0009)
$75 Share of Transportation (GH-0018) $150 Transportation - OX CART, BUSH AMBULANCE AND BICYCLE (GH-0018)
Can’t decide? Simply enter code GH-0011 and send your donation for “where the need is greatest” For more information on these gifts and the Gifts of Hope program, visit salvationarmy.ca/giftsofhope ORDER DETAILS* Gift Code
PAYMENT DETAILS Quantity
Price
Cheque Enclosed (Make payable to The Salvation Army)
GH-
$
Charge my Credit Card: Visa
GH-
$
Cardholder’s Name:
GH-
$
Card Number:
GH-
$
Expiry Date: (mm/yy)
GH-
$
Signature:
MasterCard
Amex
Total $ Name: Please send ___ (#) gift card(s)
I do not require gift card(s)
Detach and send this order form (or facsimile) to: Gifts of Hope - The Salvation Army International Development Dept 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto, ON M4H 1P4 To contact us, call 416-422-6224 or email us at SAID@salvationarmy.ca
salvationarmy.ca/giftsofhope
Address: City: Phone: (
Postal Code: )
Email: * Should the total amount of funds exceed the funding for a particular project, your gift will be used for another project where needed.
For address changes or subscription information contact (416) 422-6119 or circulation@salvationarmy.ca. Allow 4-6 weeks for changes. PM 40064794
Mary’s Memories
Serving Soldiers
Rowing for a Cause
OUR ARMY AT WAR P.12 A MAN & HIS DORY P.10 ARMY HELPS P.22
Faith&Friends I N S P I R AT I O N F O R L I V I N G
faithandfriends.ca
NOVEMBER 2021
Voices of Angels
FROM KETTLE BELLS TO BROADWAY, THIS SISTER DUO’S TALENT SOARS. P.16
Lost Sheep
White, curly hair, very friendly Answers to Fluffy Last seen October 22
Call 321-456-0987 Many of us know the agony of losing a pet. Thoughts race: What’s happened to them? Are they OK? Will they ever be found? Jesus once told His followers a story about a shepherd who lost one of his sheep. That shepherd looked high and low until he found it. And he threw a party to celebrate when he brought his beloved sheep back home (see Luke 15:3-7). Jesus is that good shepherd who’d do anything to rescue us, His sheep. When we’re lost, He finds us and brings us home again. He even suffered death so that we could have everlasting life with Him.
To learn more about God’s saving love, visit our website at faithandfriends.ca or contact us at: The Salvation Army Editorial Department, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto ON M4H 1P4.
November 2021
VOLUME 24 NUMBER 11
FAMILY TIME
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Bird’s Eye View How an encounter with some finefeathered friends reminded Diane Stark not to worry.
SOMEONE CARES
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Brooke’s Way Back Hard work and determination helped a young man turn his life around.
COMMON GROUND
10 Row, Row, Row Your Dory …
That’s what Ron White did to raise money for a Salvation Army food bank.
FEATURES Mary’s Memories
Serving Both Flags
Rowing for a Cause
OUR ARMY AT WAR P.12 A MAN & HIS DORY P.10 ARMY HELPS P.22
Faith&Friends I N S P I R AT I O N F O R L I V I N G
faithandfriends.ca
NOVEMBER 2021
Voices of Angels
FROM KETTLE BELLS TO BROADWAY, THIS SISTER DUO’S TALENT SOARS. P.16
COVER STORY
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Mary’s Memories
The Salvation Army was everywhere during the Second World War.
The Voices of Angels
From kettle bells to Broadway, this sister duo’s talent soars.
Serving Soldiers
Iconic Salvation Army kettles come to the aid of the Royal Canadian Legion.
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FAITH BUILDERS 24 From Big Dream to Big Screen
American Underdog: The Kurt Warner Story is more about family than football. LITE STUFF 28 Eating Healthy With Erin
Sudoku, Quick Quiz. NIFTY THRIFTY 30 An Un-bowl-ievable DIY
Add some vinyl flair to your home decor.
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FROM THE EDITOR
In Peace and War
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hroughout history, The Salvation Army and the Canadian Armed Forces have had a proud and powerful partnership. Salvation Army pastors have been with the troops for almost 125 years, from the veldts of South Africa in the late 1800s to the North German Plain in the 1980s. Salvationists have served in the ranks, and Salvation Army volunteers have ministered to the needs of our soldiers, sailors and airmen. So, though 75 years lie between them, there’s a strong theme running between “Mary’s Memories,” Jan Keats’ account of how one veteran remembered the good works that The Salvation Army had performed during the Second World War, and “Serving Soldiers,” Angela Rafuse’s article detailing how the Army helped the Canadian Legion raise funds with their iconic kettles last year. “We have a long-standing relationship of goodwill and service,” says Major Daniel Roode, Salvation Army pastor in Pictou County, N.S. “I’m glad we could help them in their time of need.” We pray it will always be so. With this issue, we bid adieu to senior graphic designer Brandon Laird, who was present at the birth of Faith & Friends. His artistic sensibilities have been instrumental in making our little magazine what it is, as dozens of awards can attest. “In this next stage of my career,” Brandon says, “I will be able to connect and coach the next generation of creatives and have some space to do my own creative work.” We wish him the best of luck as he goes on to achieve his dreams. Ken Ramstead
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Mission Statement To show Christ at work in the lives of real people, and to provide spiritual resources for those who are new to the Christian faith.
Faith & Friends is published monthly by: The Salvation Army 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto Ontario, M4H 1P4 International Headquarters 101 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4P 4EP, England William and Catherine Booth FOUNDERS
Brian Peddle, GENERAL Commissioner Floyd Tidd TERRITORIAL COMMANDER
Lt-Colonel John P. Murray SECRETARY FOR COMMUNICATIONS Geoff Moulton, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ken Ramstead, EDITOR
Brandon Laird SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Rivonny Luchas DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST Pamela Richardson, COPY EDITOR, PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR
Ada Leung CIRCULATION CO-ORDINATOR
Kristin Ostensen STAFF WRITER, PROOFREADER
Giselle Randall STAFF WRITER Scripture Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture references are taken from New International Version Contact Us P. (416) 467-3188, F. (416) 422-6217 Websites faithandfriends.ca, salvationist.ca, salvationarmy.ca Email faithandfriends@salvationarmy.ca Subscription for one year: Canada $17 (includes GST/HST); U.S. $22; foreign $24 P. (416) 422-6119 circulation@salvationarmy.ca All articles are copyright The Salvation Army Canada & Bermuda and cannot be reproduced without permission. Publications Mail Agreement No. 40064794 ISSN 1702-0131
Faith&Friends
FAMILY TIME
Bird’s Eye View How an encounter with some fine-feathered friends reminded me not to worry. by Diane Stark
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Illustrations: Rivonny Luchas
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om, we’re almost out of milk,” my 16-yearold daughter, Julia, said. “Can I drive you to the grocery store?” Julia had just gotten her learner’s permit, and she was constantly looking for reasons to practise driving. When I replied that I thought the milk would last another day or two, she pointed out that my coffee creamer was also running low. We were in the car in less than 10 minutes.
Are You Listening? Julia drove while I looked at the store’s website ad on my phone. Suddenly she tapped the brakes and yelled, “Move out of the way!” I looked up and saw that a flock of birds were gathered on the road. Julia honked the horn, and the birds scattered. But when she looked in the rearview mirror, she sighed. “They all just landed back on the road. And I even slowed down and honked. It’s so frustrating. I just
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FAMILY TIME
want to protect them, but they aren’t listening.” Getting Our Attention I smiled. “Keeping birds off the road sounds a bit like raising teenagers. We parents do the best we can to teach our kids to make good decisions, but once they reach a certain
siblings could learn from the mistakes that Dad and I made when we were your age but, unfortunately, it rarely happens that way.” Julia nodded. “We all have to make our own mistakes, I guess.” “I wonder if God ever feels frustrated as He watches us navigate through life,” I said. “Like the good
“Do you think God’s yelling at us, like we yell at the birds?” JULIA STARK age, we can’t protect them from everything anymore. Parents can still give advice, but teenagers don’t always follow it.” “I thought parenting got easier as kids got older,” Julia said. “It’s easier because you and your siblings are more independent than when you were little, but it’s also harder because I worry about you guys more now than I did then.” “It must be hard to watch us grow up and make our own choices,” Julia continued, “especially when you see us making some that could harm us in the future.” “You’re right. It is hard. I love you guys and I want the best for you,” I said. “I often wish that you and your
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Father He is, He tries to protect us from getting hurt, but sometimes, we keep making decisions that put us in danger. It’s got to be hard for Him to watch because He loves us so much.” “Do you think He’s yelling at us, like we yell at the birds?” I chuckled. “I wouldn’t blame Him if He did. He’s got to get my attention somehow.” “Isn’t that what the Holy Spirit is for? God’s still, small voice that guides us?” Julia said. Pray More, Worry Less Her words stopped me short. Of course, she was right. God shouldn’t need to yell to get my attention
because as a Christian, the Holy Spirit lives inside me. God will guide me with His still, small voice. All I have to do is listen. I looked at Julia and smiled. “I just
realized that I’ve been handing out advice to you and your siblings and then worrying like crazy when you don’t follow it. I’ve been praying that you all would listen to me, but instead, I need to pray that you recognize and listen to God’s voice when He guides you.” Julia smiled back. “I think that means you can stop worrying about us, too.” As if that would ever happen! “I used to feel so powerless regarding your decisions, and that’s why I worried so much,” I said. “I’ll always worry about you, but I realize now that I was trying to parent within my own power, instead of asking God to use His power to reach you.” Over the next few months, I reminded myself that my kids were in God’s hands and His voice guided their steps. I prayed more, which helped me worry less. After all, worrying really is for the birds.
(left) Diane Stark is a wife, mother of five and freelance writer from rural Indiana. She loves to write about the important things in life: her family and her faith.
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SOMEONE CARES
Brooke’s Way Back Hard work and determination helped a young man turn his life around. by Sharifa Duncan
Terrific Trio “I met my wife, who has been the light of my life, and now I can say one of my greatest achievements is becoming a father,” Brooke says
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hange is never easy. For those facing mental-health struggles and overcoming substance-use disorders, the road to recovery can have setbacks, and it can be challenging to find the strength to reach out for help. Journey to Stability Twelve years ago, Brooke was wrestling with his new sobriety when he was hospitalized for bipolar depression and anxiety. “I was self-medicating to exist in the world,” he remembers. “Once I took it all away, things went into chaos.” Brooke lost his apartment, had
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no money saved, no job and needed somewhere to stay. While at the hospital, Brooke’s social worker secured him a room at The Salvation Army’s Harbour Light in downtown Toronto. “Before Harbour Light, I didn’t have any life skills, such as budgeting, cooking or saving money,” he says. “During my one year with The Salvation Army, I learned so many great habits that pushed me to succeed in all facets of my life.” The Toronto Harbour Light offers transitional housing and a residential treatment program with a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to recovery. Brooke and his
caseworker collaborated on an individualized action plan, allowing for consistent personal growth, structure and accountability as he strived to achieve his goals. Brooke was also offered several life-skills classes, including cooking, nutrition workshops and financial literacy.
“When I first stepped foot in Harbour Light, I never imagined I would be here.” Brooke is moving into a threebedroom apartment and has been in recovery for 12 years with more than five years of sobriety. “Though I relapsed, I knew where
“I was self-medicating to exist in the world. Once I took it all away, things went into chaos.” BROOKE Shortly after his stay at Harbour Light, Brooke got his job back at a local restaurant and, with hard work and dedication, he earned more managerial positions. Now that life is stable, he is back in school to complete a social work program that focuses on mental health and recovery. “Here to Help” “I met my wife, who has been the light of my life, and now I can say one of my greatest achievements is becoming a father,” Brooke says.
to go and what to do to turn my life around through the values, resources and skills I learned at The Salvation Army.” Brooke discovered a lot through his time at Harbour Light, but one of his most powerful life lessons has been making and maintaining relationships with family and friends. “The Salvation Army took me in and treated me like family,” Brooke beams. “It doesn’t matter where you come from, who you are or what you believe—The Salvation Army is here to help without judgment.”
(left) Sharifa Duncan is a marketing/ communications specialist at The Salvation Army’s territorial headquarters in Toronto.
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COMMON GROUND
Row, Row, Row Your Dory … That’s what Ron White did to raise money for a Salvation Army food bank. by Ken Ramstead
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hen Ron White (above) rows his dory from Cooper’s Cove to Jimmy Gilbert’s Garden across Come By Chance Arm in Newfoundland and Labrador, it’s not just for recreation. Each time he rows, he re-enacts a 95-year-old chapter in his family’s history. Family Tradition In 1926, while her husband was away at work, Ron’s grandmother found herself alone with her ailing fatherin-law. He passed away on August 13, and “Nan Gilbert” had to make the dark and dangerous journey alone in a dory to the nearest neighbour. “It was said that she was pregnant
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at the time,” says Ron. That voyage has become a part of Gilbert family lore. “The story was told to us small children,” says Ron, a retired schoolteacher. “And as we grew up, the story continued to be told to me and my cousins. Everybody in the family knows about it.” Sometime during the summer, “I take my grandchildren in my dory, and I make the same journey that my grandmother did. I tell them the story of how she did it all those years ago. It’s becoming a family tradition.” Rowing for a Cause This past August 13, Ron rowed his dory yet again, but this time
for a different reason. “I’ve been volunteering with The Salvation Army in Clarenville for seven years,” says Alice, Ron’s wife. A retired nurse, she helps out with the Christmas toys and hampers. “Clarenville is a larger town and so the Salvation Army food bank there gets a lot of support,” she explains. “But I noticed that there was an increased need at The Salvation Army’s food bank at Arnold’s Cove.”
but there was a small, enthusiastic crowd at the beach, and people from as far away as Alberta watched the livestream. Attired in period dress, Ron made the kilometre-and-a-half round trip in calm water in 44 minutes. “My grandmother did it in lessthan-ideal conditions, and in the dark,” he says. Ron collected $2,300, “and there’s still money coming in,” he smiles.
“When you need help, The Salvation Army is there for those in need.” RON WHITE Ron had mentioned to Alice that the next dory ride he took would be for charity, so Alice said, “Well, what about the food bank?” Ron phoned Salvation Army Majors Beverley Dart-Stokes and Anthony Stokes in Arnold’s Cove. “I don’t know how much money I’m going to raise,” he told the Salvation Army pastors, “but whatever I do raise, I’m going to give it to the food bank.” “Bring It On” Ron advertised his event on social media, and VOCM, a radio station that broadcasts throughout the province, interviewed him a number of times and covered the journey. It was a foggy and damp Friday,
“I had dreams of $300-$500 for the dory ride—anyway, that’s what my goal was,” Ron says. “So it’s been a huge success and I think the food bank is going to be quite happy when they accept the money from us.” Best of all, there’s already been interest from people to accompany Ron in their own kayaks and boats next year. “It’s not about just me doing it,” he smiles. “I want other people to get involved and if they can raise money for the Salvation Army food bank, bring it on! “Whether it’s a fire in the community or a disaster around the world, when you need help, the Army is there for those in need. That means a lot to Alice and me.”
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FEATURE
At Ease Henry Bellegarde stands with some of the crew of his tank, a Dutch boy wearing wooden shoes next to them. “26/12/44 Here I am again by my old tank,” he noted on the photo. “Note my hands in my pockets. The one on the tank is my driver”
Mary’s Memories
FOR ONE WOMAN’S VETERAN FATHER, THE SALVATION ARMY WAS EVERYWHERE DURING THE SECOND WORLD WAR. by Jan Keats
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here was no conscription at the beginning of the Second World War,” Mary recalls her late father, Henry Bellegarde, explaining to her. But he decided to volunteer for one main reason: his daughter’s future. “This is the best country in the world for a little girl to grow up in,” he would say. Journey to England Henry, whose family was originally from France, resided in Quebec’s Eastern Townships area. He followed the course of the war with avid interest and decided that by joining the army, he would be contributing to
joined the Canadian Grenadier Guards in Montreal and was assigned to Debert, N.S., for training. While on assignment in Halifax, Henry’s commanding officer asked him to drive some women to the mess hall one Saturday evening to prepare for a social event. When he arrived, he noticed one of the women walking down the steps, her long hair bouncing off her shoulders. He was responsible to bring her home, so they engaged in conversation and became acquainted. He later noticed her at the church doorstep the following Sunday, and they walked inside and took their seats together.
“ The Salvation Army could be seen on every street corner.” HENRY BELLEGARDE the freedom of Canada. Along with Henry, many young people were signing up to serve, including seven brothers, who enlisted at different times during the war. At 35, Henry was considerably older than most young men who signed up. He feared he might not get in, so he lied about his age, declaring he was in his 20s. He
Henry and the love of his life, Geraldine, were married six weeks later. Their daughter and only child, Mary, was born after the war. In the meantime, the Canadian Grenadier Guards embarked on their journey to England in 1941. Our Army at War Henry first discovered The Salvation faithandfriends.ca I NOVEMBER 2021
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FEATURE
Freedom Fighter Every Remembrance Day, Mary placed her father’s beret and photo in the window of her store as a tribute to him
Army at work during his initial days stationed in London, England, during the Blitz, the German bombing campaign aimed at the capital. “The Salvation Army could be seen on every street corner,” Mary’s father told her. “Everywhere he looked,” Mary says, recalling his memories, “Salvation Army volunteers could be seen on horse-drawn carts, bringing food and supplies for the soldiers. They served biscuits and flasks of tea, and handed out blankets.” The Road to Victory The Canadian Grenadier Guards, of which Henry was a part, served in England, France, Belgium and the Netherlands, carving out an 14 • NOVEMBER 2021
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honourable record. Henry was among the troops who landed on the beaches of Normandy after D-Day, the Allied invasion of France. The soldiers waited many hours on board a landing craft before they disembarked. Henry referred to the craft as a “tin can” because it was tossed around in the strong waves, resulting in many soldiers becoming seasick. One of his most difficult moments was witnessing his comrades who had landed before him in the first wave, dead and dying all along the beach. After fighting their way across France and Belgium, Henry was among the troops when Holland was liberated and victory was declared. Mary has a photo of her father
standing beside his tank, a Sherman Firefly. In the photo is a young man who he and his unit helped liberate, standing beside Henry wearing the traditional wooden Dutch shoes. “They Were Everywhere” Following the war, after serving more than five years, Mary’s father returned to Canada and settled in Dartmouth, N.S. There weren’t many lodging dwellings for military personnel following the war, so Henry decided to build two apartment houses, to be used as rental properties. Henry succumbed to his wartime injuries at the age of 60. He had shrapnel embedded in his hip, which caused pain and, eventually, cancer. His wife, Geraldine, lived to the age of 95. Mary opened a retail store in Dartmouth after she married. Each Remembrance Day, she placed her
father’s beret and a photo in the window as a tribute to him. One day, a young man walked by her store. Noticing the photo, he entered and expressed his gratitude to Mary. “He recognized that the photo had been taken in Holland as he was an immigrant from there,” Mary recalls. “He shook my hand and told me he knew and understood the sentiment, since his family had been one of those liberated. That actually made me cry.” From the time he returned from the war until his death, Henry always donated to The Salvation Army. Recognizing all the work and dedication he had seen during the war had had an impact. “They were everywhere—Christ’s soldiers were everywhere,” Henry told his daughter again and again. “He believed in the mission,” says Mary.
On the Front Line Henry and his tank crew might have passed by this Salvation Army Red Shield canteen serving food and drink somewhere in France in late 1944 faithandfriends.ca I NOVEMBER 2021
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COVER STORY
The Voices of Angels FROM KETTLE BELLS TO BROADWAY, THIS SISTER DUO’S TALENT SOARS. by Melissa Yue Wallace
TWO SISTERS FROM FORT Frances, Ont., have garnered international attention for their moving rendition of An Easter Hallelujah, a video posted in March 2021 on various social media channels that has attracted more than 25 million views. In the video, Cassandra Star Armstrong, 11, and her sister, Callahan, 20, sing with a purity described by viewers as “angelic,” with many commenting that they were “moved to tears.” The sisters recorded the song for their Nana, who at the time was in hospital, 16 • NOVEMBER 2021
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and it provided encouragement not only to her but to millions who were looking for inspiration and peace. “When people heard our Hallelujah song, I think it made them realize that they are not alone because Jesus is always with us,” says Cassandra. “He went through all of that pain and suffering for us, and just as so many people were sick and in pain during COVID-19, everyone was looking for hope.” Giving Back Performing comes naturally for the siblings, which includes their
Photos: Courtesy of the Armstrong family
All for the Army The Armstrong children lend a hand at the Christmas kettles
brother, Christian, 17. From a young age, the trio were singing at family and community functions, including a fundraiser for The Salvation Army, during mass at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and at the local Festival of the Performing Arts.
“They were harmonizing and singing together all the time, every day,” says their mother, Nikki. “It was just something they always did, and they knew that whenever there was a special occasion, all my parents and I wanted was for them to sing.” faithandfriends.ca I NOVEMBER 2021
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“ Volunteering for The Salvation Army was just something that was dear to our hearts and always has been.” NIKKI ARMSTRONG For the Armstrong family, sharing the gift of music was just one way they could give back to a community that supported them through a tough time. Never Forgotten On March 3, 1994, the Armstrongs welcomed their first child, Nicholas, into the world. “He was medically fragile with multiple health issues, and was unable to walk or talk,” explains Nikki. “He couldn’t do many things
but he loved to smile and cuddle.” Given a heartbreaking prognosis, Nicholas spent much of his life in and out of hospitals and eventually passed away in 2008 in his mother’s arms, his siblings cuddled around him. He was only 14. The Salvation Army’s toy drive was in full swing since it was the end of November, so instead of flowers, Nikki requested funeral attendees bring stuffed animals. “We had the hugest mountain of stuffed animals and it was the most
Dynamic Duo Cassandra and Callahan grace the cover of the CD they produced
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Proud Holder “It wasn’t us who went viral, it was actually God who did,” says Cassandra, seen here with copies of the CD
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beautiful act of kindness,” she says. A tag affixed to each stuffed toy read: “Merry Christmas with love from an angel named Nicholas.” “We started connecting with The Salvation Army at that point, and they included the toys with the Christmas hampers,” Nikki continues. “It was heartwarming to think that so many kids could have something special in honour of my son. When Cassandra was little, she always wanted to make sure I brought Nicholas into every conversation if people asked how many children I had. I assured her, ‘Honey, 20 • NOVEMBER 2021
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I’ll never forget him.’ ” The Armstrongs continued to be involved with The Salvation Army in various capacities, from volunteering on kettle shifts, representing the Army on a float during the Santa Claus parade, and singing for the grand opening of their new building. “It started out with Callahan and Christian volunteering at the kettles and they didn’t want to just stand there and ring the bell, they wanted to use their gifts to sing Christmas songs,” says Nikki. When Cassandra got older, she joined in the singing. “We found that when they sang, people would
A Family Affair Nikki (centre) with her family, from left, Callahan, holding their puppy, Rainy, Cassandra and Christian
stand and listen and put money in. A shift would mean a few thousand dollars. It was unbelievable,” says Nikki, who estimates her children sang for seven consecutive years. “Volunteering for The Salvation Army was something that was dear to our hearts and always has been.” Rising Stars After going viral, opportunities continue to pour in for Callahan and Cassandra to perform at various venues. They will be singing at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., this month and again in February 2022 after the CEO and his staff were moved by An Easter Hallelujah. “It wasn’t us who went viral, it was actually God who did,” says Cassandra. “It was beautiful that it was His Word that spread all over the world, and my sister and I were just His messengers who sang the story.”
Callahan is a music and education major in her third year of college and is passionate about performing. Cassandra auditioned for and was invited to attend Kristin Chenoweth’s Broadway Camp in June. Since December 2020, she has worked with Dan Micciche, the director of Broadway’s Wicked, and Michael Orland, the music director of American Idol for 16 seasons. Cassandra has worked over Zoom with Broadway stars, including Hamilton’s Mandy Gonzalez and Wicked’s Kara Lindsay, and she has more than 39,000 subscribers on her personal YouTube channel. Her dreams include starring on Broadway and becoming a teacher when she is older. “I want to be a teacher of little kids at the same school I go to right now,” she says. “I would make sure that my classroom had God and music in it every day.”
(left) Melissa Yue Wallace is a journalism graduate and freelance writer who is passionate about helping people in need and encouraging the organizations that work tirelessly to care for them. By writing, she finds meaning in amplifying the voices of people who don’t often have their stories told. Melissa lives in Richmond Hill, Ont., with her husband and twin children. faithandfriends.ca I NOVEMBER 2021
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FEATURE
Photo: Angela Rafuse
Faith&Friends
Serving Soldiers
ICONIC SALVATION ARMY KETTLES COME TO THE AID OF THE ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION. by Angela Rafuse
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he Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda works to meet the needs of each community in which they serve. Sometimes this means opening a food bank; other times it means offering shelter. But in Pictou County, N.S., last Remembrance Day, it meant lending 22 • NOVEMBER 2021
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the iconic red kettles to the local branch of the Canadian Legion to assist with their Poppy Campaign. “This is the first request we’ve had of this kind,” says Major Daniel Roode, Salvation Army pastor in Pictou County. “But we knew they were in need, and we wanted to help.”
Kettle Duty Salvation Army Major Daniel Roode and Mike Murdock, president of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 16 in Pictou, N.S., at their post
“Something to Help” Last year in October, Major Daniel was contacted by Janice Watters, past president of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 16, to see if it was possible to borrow The Salvation Army’s Christmas kettles to collect funds during the Legion’s Poppy Campaign. “We knew we had strict rules to follow with some locations not allowing us to have a volunteer in the store,” Janice explains, “so we came up with the idea to contact The Salvation Army to see if we could borrow the kettles.” “It was a great way to ensure that distancing measures were in place for the Poppy Campaign, and for people to make a donation quickly as they visited the retail environment,” says Major Jamie Locke, then divisional secretary for public relations and development for The Salvation Army’s Maritime Division in Halifax. “We were only too happy to come alongside and help and offer up our kettle stands.” With the Army’s annual kettle campaign beginning on November 16, 2020, Major Daniel was all too familiar with the constraints that the Legion was facing around social distancing and unmanned displays.
“We knew the challenges ahead of us last year, and if we could do something to help another community group, that’s what we were going to do,” Major Daniel explains.
“ I don’t know what we would have done without the help of The Salvation Army.” MIKE MURDOCK Goodwill and Service Mike Murdock, president of Legion Branch 16, was grateful for The Salvation Army’s support. “The kettles were vital to the success of our campaign last year,” he says. “I don’t know what we would have done without the help of The Salvation Army.” To show their appreciation, Legion members volunteered at the Salvation Army kettles as bell-ringers. “Our members volunteer every year with the kettles,” says Mike. “We will certainly be there to help after this.” By working together, The Salvation Army and the Royal Canadian Legion continue to raise vital funds to help the Pictou community during this difficult period. “We have a long-standing relationship of goodwill and service with the Legion,” says Major Daniel. “I’m glad we could help them in their time of need.” faithandfriends.ca I NOVEMBER 2021
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FAITH BUILDERS
From Big Dream to Big Screen Not just a sports movie, American Underdog: The Kurt Warner Story is more about family than football. by Jayne Thurber-Smith
Photos: Tor Hawley Creative. www.torhawley.com
Together Forever Kurt Warner with his wife, Brenda. Both had a hand in the film-making process that led to American Underdog
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ho doesn’t enjoy a good underdog story? NFL Hall of Famer Kurt Warner has quite a few to share. Most of these stories are told in the upcoming feel-good movie American Underdog: The Kurt Warner Story, to be released during the feel-good Christmas season on December 25. Based on Kurt’s memoir All Things Possible, the subtitle of the movie trailer says: “From the dream to the big screen.”
Photo: Mike Kubeisy
Coming Together Kurt says the making of the movie itself was quite the underdog undertaking. It was first announced in February 2020, but then was delayed by COVID. Filming didn’t start in Oklahoma City until almost a year later. Besides the extra cost and time involved in following the necessary health and testing protocols, a mid-February blizzard brought
extreme cold and dangerous weather conditions. “My wife, Brenda, and I have always believed there is perfect timing to certain things,” Kurt comments. “But after some of the delays and setbacks we faced, you get to the point where you wonder, Is this gonna get done?” Somehow, with God’s hand on it and with the right people involved, the movie came together in due time. “I saw God working in all of it,” Kurt insists. “Despite all the challenges we saw, one thing came together after another, and I knew we were going to come out on the other side with a great product. Every struggle just fit in with the theme of the movie, that nothing worth having comes easy.” Multifaceted Story Kurt’s story of being a quarterback without a team, and his long journey
Needed Advice St. Louis Rams coach Dick Vermeil (Dennis Quaid) gives advice to Kurt Warner (Zachary Levi)
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FAITH BUILDERS
“ There were more facets to my life than just playing a game, and we’ve been able to capture that.” KURT WARNER from stocking shelves at the grocery store to NFL Super Bowl MVP, is football folklore and should be celebrated. However, this movie includes more underdogs than Kurt alone, and is really more about family than football. “You’ll see that Brenda has also been through some things,” he says. “And then there’s our eldest son, who suffered a traumatic brain injury when he was young. All three of our stories interplay because all our journeys are connected. That’s the cool part of it! People may go to this movie expecting a sports movie, but will likely be pleasantly surprised by the depth of the whole story and how they will connect to it emotionally. There were more facets to my life than just playing a game, and we’ve been able to capture that.” Kurt and Brenda both had a hand in the film-making process. “We were excited about the casting, and everyone did such a great job,” says Kurt. “The actors really tapped into what the whole story was about.”
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Getting to the Essence Dennis Quaid plays Dick Vermeil, who was Kurt’s coach for the St. Louis Rams the year they won Super Bowl XXXIV. Anna Paquin (The Irishman) plays Brenda, and Zachary Levi (The Mauritanian) plays a very convincing Kurt. Zachary agrees with Kurt that American Underdog is about so much more than sports. “The football is the packaging in that it’s an incredible rags-to-riches Cinderella story, and the NFL is one of the most insane places to ever try and make that thing happen,” Zachary commented in an interview. “But this is 25-percent football, 75-percent of the real-life journey of Kurt, Brenda and their kids. It’s beautiful. It’s got so much heart and so much faith! It’s a very uplifting, humbling, encouraging story. I think we need more of that, all of the time.” Zachary visited the Warner family for a few days to absorb who Kurt really was, to aid in his performance. “It was nice to get to know Zachary,” Kurt says. “He picked our brains and felt out the emotional
Mirror Image Zachary Levi and Kurt Warner on the set of American Underdog
dynamic of our family, and I think he got it right. It’s funny, watching the movie play out, sometimes I would think, Wait, I wouldn’t say that! But the filming process was not trying to exactly portray me. “There are different ways to play that out in a movie to create the biggest impact. That is something Zach and I talked about a lot,” he continues. “Thankfully, we ended up with a product that really speaks to who Brenda and I are.” Overcoming the Odds Kurt realized it was most important that the message of the movie gets across: you can trust God to help you overcome any odds. And throughout his outstanding career, Kurt has never hesitated to give God the glory.
“You can’t do a story about me without having a component of faith in there,” he says. “The movie was a balancing act, making sure it had all the correct elements and undertones of my life as a believer. We wrestled with how to do that, but my faith will always be a part of my story.” What makes a truly great movie is characters we can cheer for and their positive development, which American Underdog delivers. We all love to see a determined underdog come out from under. “After what we’ve all faced with this recent pandemic, we’re ready for some encouragement,” says Kurt. “I’ve heard so many people over the years say that they’ve been inspired after hearing my story, and that’s what I think is so cool. Brenda and I can’t wait for people to see it!”
faithandfriends.ca I NOVEMBER 2021
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Faith&Friends
LITE STUFF
Eating Healthy With Erin EASY ARTISAN BAKED BREAD TIME 15 min prep, rise overnight, bake 55 min MAKES 6 servings SERVE WITH butter and jam or in a sandwich
Recipe photo: Erin Stanley
500 ml (2 cups) allpurpose flour 250 ml (1 cup) whole wheat flour 375 ml (1½ cups) warm water, not over 43 C (110 F) 1 ml (¼ tsp) dry yeast 5 ml (1 tsp) salt 15 ml (1 tbsp) olive oil
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1. In large bowl, sift flour and set aside. 2. In separate bowl, mix water, dry yeast, salt and olive oil. Let stand until yeast is dissolved. 3. Gradually add flour to yeast mixture and mix so dough pulls away from the side of the bowl. 4. Sprinkle flour on counter and add dough. Knead dough by folding the edges of the dough into the middle, and then press into the dough with hands firmly, and push away. Repeat for 3-5 minutes. Only add flour when needed to avoid sticking. 5. Lightly grease large bowl and place dough in bowl and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Top with tea towel. Let rise overnight. 6. Place a Dutch oven or covered roasting pan into oven before preheating oven to 190 C (375 F). 7. Sprinkle flour on counter and shape dough into a football or oval shape. Place on parchment paper and put in Dutch oven or a covered roasting pan. Bake for 45 minutes. 8. Remove lid and bake for 10 minutes.
Sudoku Puzzle
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© www.kevinfrank.net
HEAVEN’S LOVE THRIFT SHOP by Kevin Frank
Quick Quiz Answers: 1. Jughead; 2. at the moment; 3. the numerator.
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QUICK QUIZ 1. What Archie Comics character’s real name is Forsythe Pendleton Jones III? 2. What does “atm” mean in texting jargon? 3. What is the top number of a fraction known as?
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faithandfriends.ca I NOVEMBER 2021
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Faith&Friends
NIFTY THRIFTY
An Un-bowl-ievable DIY Add some vinyl flair to your home decor.
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V
inyl records are all the rage these days. Whether you’re visiting your local Salvation Army thrift store to add to your music collection or looking for a simple repurposing project, records are easy to score and cost-effective upcycling material. Supplies Needed thrifted record, cookie sheet, oven-safe bowl, oven mitts. Step 1 Visit your local Salvation Army thrift store and peruse their record donations. For this DIY, you’ll want a record that has a fun label … maybe an old childhood favourite.
Step 4 With oven mitts, take the cookie sheet out of the oven. Place on top of your stove, then shape the baked record into a bowl and allow to cool. (You can leave the record to cool on top of the strainer or place in another bowl depending on how wide you want the opening of your DIY record bowl.) Bonus DIY Idea Turn the record cover into wall art! You can frame it, place it on a floating shelf or simply use mounting squares to hang it.
Step 2 Preheat your oven to 95 C (200 F). For baking your record, you’ll want a cookie sheet and an oven-safe bowl. I used a thrifted strainer placed upside down. Place the cookie sheet with strainer in the oven. Then place your record on top of the strainer. (If there is a specific side of the record that you want to be seen, then place your record chosen-side down. This will be the bottom inside of your bowl.) Step 3 Bake the record for six to eight minutes.
(left) Denise Corcoran (aka Thrifty By Design) is an author, upcycler, community builder and workshop facilitator based in North Vancouver. She shares her enthusiasm for crafting and upcycling by facilitating “Crafternoons” throughout Vancouver. She is also a creative expert for The Salvation Army’s thrift stores. Find a thrift store near you at thriftstore.ca.
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