Salvationist_v11_n9-2016-9

What Will it Take to Grace Under Fire: Escape Women’s Ministries
Stop Gun Violence? From Fort McMurray Launches “Others” Program

THE VOICE OF THE ARMY

September 2016 Salvationist.ca

Higher
Education

Students Give Booth University
College Top Marks

EDUCATION FOR A BETTER WORLD

THE SALVATION ARMY'S
ONLY UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

Located in Winnipeg, Manitoba (Canada), Booth University
College offers seven degree programs: Bachelor of Business
Administration, Bachelor of Social Work, and five Bachelor
of Arts programs (Behavioural Sciences, English and Film
Studies, General Studies, Psychology, and Religion).

October 20-23, 2016

BOOTH BOUND 2016

In October, we set aside a special weekend for young
Salvationists to visit our campus and experience what life
as a Booth UC student is all about. From attending classes
and participating in a service learning project (part of a
Service Learning program unique to Booth UC) to exploring
Winnipeg, enjoying the great food and shopping, and
experiencing the culture – Booth Bound 2016 is an
experience you don’t want to miss!

Future Leader Scholarships /Travel Grants

If eligible, you will receive an all-expenses-paid Booth
Bound weekend in Winnipeg!

To learn more or to apply for Booth Bound 2016,

visit: BoothBound.com

CONTENTS

Salvationist
September 2016 • Volume 11, Number 9

12

Departments Island Life: Meet Three How The Salvation Army Red Card: Corruption Ke e p frFAıeITnH &dsAugust2016 faithandfriends.ca Ke e p
Bermudian Salvationists Cultivates Rural Ministry at the Rio Games Connected Connected
5 Frontlines
THE VOICE OF THE ARMY Faith & Friends August 2016
15 Perspectives
Inspiration for Living
Thank God for the
Red Cross August 2016 Salvationist.ca
by Lt-Colonel Jim Champ
Salvationist August 2016 RRIUNGLER
16 Spiritual Life As the world
watches her at
A Place at the Table the Olympics,
by Carla and Jonathan boxer Mandy
Evans Bujold knows
who is in
24 Cross Culture her corner
+ Renee’s Road
25 People & Places SHALRIGINHGTTHE Territory’s to Faith
newest lieutenants Lost in Victoria
30 Salvation Stories commissioned  How Music Changed Could Kim’s brother
One Young Life be found?
Fight for What’s Right
by Brenda Wootten This Month: This Month:

Columns • Isaiah Henderson grew in faith Messengers of Light • Volunteering at The Salvation
from camper to counsellor at Army gave Diane Pennock a
4 Editorial Scotian Glen Camp Twenty-four officers commissioned chance to help others
and ordained during a weekend of
Education for a Better • Award-winning Spotlight • Ben-Hur remake sets a
World reveals the truth in dark praise and worship falsely charged man on a
by Geoff Moulton corners collision course with the
might of the Roman Empire
21 #Trending • And more ... The Sound of Music
• And more ...
Under the Gun A trip by The Salvation Army’s
by Captain Mark Braye Canadian Staff Band changed one

22 Herstory young life forever

Dressed to Kill Ring Ruler
by Lieutenant Kristen
Jackson-Dockeray As the world watches her at the
Olympics, boxer Mandy Bujold
23 knows who is in her corner

Through the Fire Common Ground Just for Kids August 2016

After losing their home, a Do Christians and Muslims
Salvationist family finds hope amid worship the same God? Major Ray

the ashes Harris examines the question

Match the pictures to their shadows. Hi kids! This Month:
This Monday, August 15, is Discovery
33ISSUE • Find out why Jesus is the light of
Day in the Yukon Territory. This the world
holiday commemorates the
discovery of gold there. • Meet Ruth and Boaz
George Washington Carmack
• Visit the Yukon Territory
was the first person to find gold in
Bonanza Creek, Yukon, in 1896. • Have supper with Jesus and His
Gold is very valuable. But Jesus said disciples
that “heavenly” riches are even more
valuable. What do you think He meant? • Plus stories, puzzles, colouring,
Find out in this issue of Just for Kids. jokes and more!

Your friend, Kristin

Fun Yukon Facts!

Did you know The Salvation Army • After gold was discovered • “Yukon” comes from the • The capital of the territory is
is at work in China? Learn more at there in 1896, 100,000 Athapaskan word “yu-kun- Whitehorse
salvationist.ca this month. prospectors moved to the ah,” which means “great
Yukon. The territory’s “gold river.” It refers to the Yukon • About 37,000 people live in
rush” only lasted three years River, which is 3,600 the Yukon with 28,000 of
kilometres long them living in Whitehorse
• Discovery Day has been
an official holiday in the • The territory is home to
territory since 1911 14 different First Nations
peoples
• Yukon is one of three
territories in Canada • Yukon’s Carcross Desert is
the world’s smallest desert
• The highest mountain in at 642 acres
Canada, Mount Logan, is
located in the Yukon • The Yukon flag is divided
into three colours: green
represents the territory’s
forests, white represents
snow and blue represents
lakes and rivers

Features Keep Connected

8 Higher Education Want to highlight Army
ministry at your worship
The Salvation Army’s only university college is poised meetings? Take advantage
for the future. of our “Keep Connected”
promotional materials that
by Kristin Ostensen include PowerPoint slides
for on-screen announce-
12 Grace Under Fire ments and bulletin inserts
that summarize all the great
As Fort McMurray burned, Lieutenant Tinisha Reid struggled articles in Salvationist, Faith
to get her cancer-stricken father to safety. & Friends, Foi & Vie (French
by Giselle Randall version of Faith & Friends)
and Just for Kids.
17 Beyond Shelter
Download the materials at
Seeking housing—and justice—for those most at risk. salvationist.ca/editorial/
by Mary Ellen Eberlin promotional-material or
write to ada_leung@can.
18 Retired. Now What? salvationarmy.org.

Ministry may change, but the call continues. Cover photo: Steve Boyd
by Major Geoffrey Groves
Read and share it!
19 Adopted by the Army
Hospital Ordeal Teacher Takes on After the Crashes
How growing up in a Salvation Army boys’ home set me on DAUGHTER'S VIGIL P.5 DRAGONS’ DEN P.8 9/11 MEMORIES P.14
the path to officership.
Faith&Friends
by Colonel Nihal Hettiarachchi INSPIRATION FOR LIVING

faithandfriends.ca

SEPTEMBER
2016

20 Connecting the Dots Jerry
Howarth
A candidate reflects on her call to officership.
by Emily Newbury TORONTO BLUE JAYS ANNOUNCER
BROADCASTS HIS FAITH P.16
23 Setting Up Shop
faithandfriends.ca I SEPTEMBER 2016 • 1
In the market for products that bring hope? Women’s ministries
department launches Others program in Canada and Bermuda.

by Major Shirley King

Salvationist  September 2016  3

EDITORIAL

Education for a Better World
When I asked my six-year-
old what he enjoyed most including the School for Continuing of Faith & Friends. If you’re a Toronto
about Grade 2, he told Studies, in the article on page 8. Together Blue Jays fan, you’ll appreciate the cover
me: “Lunch is my best subject, and with the College for Officer Training, story on Jerry Howarth, as well as the
then recess.” My wife joked that he takes Booth has positioned itself as the premier many other testimonies of faith. We’ve
after his dad. Most parents hope their institution of learning for the Canada made some major adjustments to the
children will go on to pursue a higher and Bermuda Territory. magazine to make it more readable and
education that prepares them well for contemporary. Take a second look, and
their chosen career. But there is a lot of Booth University when you’re done, pull it out and pass it
pressure these days. We could all use a College is a place along to a friend who needs to hear the
little more recess. where students feel good news of the gospel.

Being a student can be nerve-wrack- at home. GEOFF MOULTON
ing. Choosing your courses, finding your EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
way around campus, struggling to make Elsewhere in this issue of Salvationist,
new friends, worrying about grades, you’ll learn about the “Others” program,
and the list goes on. Thankfully, Booth launched by the women’s ministries
University College is a place where stu- department, which enables you to
dents feel at home. In addition to pursu- purchase attractive products crafted
ing academic excellence, the school offers by overseas workers who are paid
small class sizes, warm fellowship and fairly for their efforts (page 23). You
solid biblical grounding. can read how Lieutenant Tinisha
Reid got her cancer-stricken father
Booth is the only degree-granting out of Fort McMurray, Alta., just
institution in the Salvation Army in time, and the touching Silver
world. That’s quite an accomplishment Star ceremony that capped her
for what started as a small Bible col- time at training college (page 12).
lege in Winnipeg in 1982. Their slogan, And find out how a destitute boy
“Education for a Better World,” speaks from Sri Lanka rose to the position
to their commitment to make learning of territorial commander (page 19).
practical in ways that further God’s king-
dom and the mission of The Salvation Lastly, in the centre of this issue
Army. I’ve taught writing courses at you’ll find a freshly redesigned copy
Booth, and I’ve found the students keen
and motivated to make a difference.

You can read more about Booth’s
Vision 2020 and its expanding programs,

Salvationist Timothy Cheng Subscriptions Mission
Senior Graphic Designer
is a monthly publication of Brandon Laird Annual: Canada $30 (includes GST/ The Salvation Army exists to share
The Salvation Army Canada and Design and Media Specialist HST); U.S. $36; foreign $41. Available the love of Jesus Christ, meet
Bermuda Territory Ada Leung from: The Salvation Army, 2 Overlea human needs and be a transforming
André Cox Circulation Co-ordinator Blvd, Toronto ON M4H 1P4. influence in the communities of our
General Ken Ramstead Phone: 416-422-6119; world. Salvationist informs readers
Commissioner Susan McMillan Contributor fax: 416-422-6120; e-mail: about the mission and ministry of
Territorial Commander Agreement No. 40064794, [email protected]. The Salvation Army in Canada and
Lt-Colonel Jim Champ ISSN 1718-5769. Bermuda.
Secretary for Communications Member, The Canadian Church Advertising
Geoff Moulton Press. All Scripture references from salvationist.ca
Editor-in-Chief the Holy Bible, New International Inquire by e-mail for rates at facebook.com/salvationistmagazine
Giselle Randall Version (NIV) © 2011. [email protected]. twitter.com/salvationist
Features Editor (416-467-3185) All articles are copyright The youtube.com/salvationistmagazine
Pamela Richardson Salvation Army Canada and News, Events and Submissions instagram.com/salvationistmagazine
News Editor, Production Bermuda Territory and can be
Co-ordinator, reprinted only with written Editorial lead time is seven weeks
Copy Editor (416-422-6112) permission. prior to an issue’s publication
Kristin Ostensen date. No responsibility is assumed
Associate Editor and Staff Writer to publish, preserve or return
unsolicited material. Write to
[email protected]
or Salvationist,
2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto ON
M4H 1P4.

4  September 2016  Salvationist

FRONTLINES

World Leaders Attend Anniversary Celebrations
in Papua New Guinea

General André Cox and Com- General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox meet Papua New Guineans
missioner Silvia Cox, World
President of Women’s Ministries, Papua New Guinea, as more than 1,000 the town, stopping traffic and drawing
brought encouragement to Salvationists Salvationists proudly marched through crowds.
in Papua New Guinea, leading 60th anni-
versary celebrations in June.

Following officers councils, a welcome
rally marked the beginning of the PNG
Northern Congress. Representatives of
tribes from the North Western Division
sang and danced in colourful traditional
costumes. People gathered from all over
the Highlands and North Coastal areas,
with some travelling for as long as nine
hours over difficult terrain to worship
and to hear God’s message.

The congress included events for
men, women and youth. Hundreds of
people moved forward to pray at each
event in response to the Bible messages.
A highlight of the week was a march of
witness that demonstrated the strength
of The Salvation Army in the north of

General Bramwell Tillsley Releases New Book
General Bramwell H. Tillsley (Rtd) launched his latest
book, a compendium of his writings entitled It Is Photo: Timothy Cheng
Written: The Collected Works of Bramwell H. Tillsley,
in June. General Tillsley was on hand to sign copies at the General Bramwell Tillsley launched It Is Written during commissioning
Canada and Bermuda Territory’s commissioning and ordina- weekend in June. From left, General Tillsley’s son, Colonel Mark Tillsley,
tion weekend in June in London, Ont., and at a special chapel chief secretary; General Bramwell Tillsley; Mjr Michael LeBlanc, supplies
service at territorial headquarters the following week. and purchasing secretary; and Geoff Moulton

“Few Salvationists have proclaimed, taught and penned It Is Written: The Collected Works of Bramwell H. Tillsley
The Salvation Army’s Wesleyan theological underpinnings, is available in paperback at store.salvationarmy.ca, 416-
and in particular those concerning the biblical teaching of 422-6100, [email protected]. For the e-book,
holiness, more than … General Bramwell H. Tillsley,” writes visit amazon.ca.
Commissioner William W. Francis, former territorial com-
mander of Canada and Bermuda, in the foreword.

It Is Written brings together three of the General’s books,
Manpower for the Master (1978), Life in the Spirit (1986) and
This Mind in You (1990), along with two War Cry series,
Troublesome Texts (1964/65) and The Beatitudes (1997).

“General Tillsley’s writings cover a broad range of topics,”
notes Geoff Moulton, editor-in-chief and literary secretary,
“including the work of the Holy Spirit, profiles of Jesus’ dis-
ciples, the Beatitudes and difficult scriptural passages. With
its deep Bible knowledge and lively anecdotes, this is a book
that students of the Word will return to again and again.”

The book also includes a brief original biography that traces
General Tillsley’s journey from his early years in Kitchener,
Ont., to becoming the 14th international leader of The Salvation
Army.

Salvationist  September 2016  5

FRONTLINES

World Secretary for Women’s Ministries
Leads Camps in N.L.
Women from across the Newfoundland and Labrador
Division gathered for two weekend camps led by ies, Newfoundland and Labrador Division.
Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, World Secretary In the opening session on Friday evening, Captain
for Women’s Ministries, returning to her home territory and
division. Krista Andrews interviewed and introduced Forystek and
Commissioner Peddle, giving opportunity for all three to
Close to 400 women attended the two camps, held at Twin share their personal testimonies. Commissioner Peddle then
Ponds Camp and Camp Starrigan in May and June. Worship introduced the theme for the weekend, “Luggage of Life,”
leadership for the weekends was provided by Commissioner encouraging the women to let go of the unnecessary baggage
Peddle’s daughters and son-in-law, Stephanie Forystek and that can hinder their walk with Christ. Her first message
Captains Krista and Tim Andrews, divisional youth secretar- focused on the story of the woman caught in adultery (see
John 8:1-11).
Mjr Marilyn Shirran, DSWM, N.L. Div; Cpt Krista Andrews; Stephanie
Forystek; Commissioner Rosalie Peddle; and Lt-Col Jean Hefford, then On Saturday, Commissioner Peddle spoke from Luke 13:10-
DDWM, N.L. Div, provided leadership at two recent women’s camps 17, the story of the bent-over woman, drawing a connection
between her and women who may be bent over with the chal-
lenges of life. She spoke words of encouragement, emphasizing
God’s love for them and that when we reach out to him, Jesus
can do great things.

Commissioner Peddle also introduced the women’s min-
istries’ territorial project for 2016, supporting ministries in
Liberia. She shared insights into the lives of the people of
Liberia and gave thanks to God for the funds raised, which
totaled more than $19,000.

In the final session on Sunday morning, Commissioner
Peddle spoke about grief and grace through the story of Hagar
and encouraged the women to know Christ in a personal way.
Many women came to the mercy seat and some accepted Christ
for the first time. An offering was taken on Sunday morning
that raised $2,600 for overseas small missions projects.

Survey Measures Spiritual Health
Earlier this year, the Canada and
Bermuda Territory invited officers Words that describe your spiritual life
and leaders across the territory to
participate in an online survey to gauge Genuine 54%
their spiritual health. The survey was Enjoyable
designed by the spiritual life develop- Rewarding 46%
ment and pastoral care departments Satisfied 43%
and conducted by Andrew Grenville, a Interesting
30-year research veteran and member of Emotional 38%
the national advisory board. Offered in Dissatisfied 36%
both English and French, the 18-question
survey was sent by e-mail to 800 officers Rational 23%
and leaders, of whom 527 responded. Vibrant
Questions covered such topics as the Lethargic 18%
practice of spiritual disciplines, mentor- Disappointment 15%
ship, Sabbath rest and spiritual struggles. Boring 14%
Miserable 14%
As the results were analyzed, two
themes differentiated people: overall 9%
spiritual health and perceptions of how 5%
supported or alone they were. Graphing 1%
the results identified four groups: healthy
and supported (28 percent); healthy but 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%
stretched (23 percent); spiritually thirsty
but supported (30 percent); and spiritu- The results of the survey were dis- spiritual health of officers and leaders.
ally thirsty and lonely (18 percent). cussed at the territorial leaders’ confer- The full survey results and list of
ence in May and a number of concrete
actions were suggested to strengthen the actions recommended at the confer-
ence can be found at saspirituallife.ca.

6  September 2016  Salvationist

FRONTLINES

Army Plants Seeds of Life
The Salvation Army is supporting
Seeds of Life, a community grow- Agency, will allow us to support Army Canadian Foodgrains Bank. For more
ing project in Alberton, Ont., to projects overseas.” information, call the world missions
raise funds for the Canadian Foodgrains To date, the Army has worked department at 416-425-2111.
Bank, a partnership of 15 churches and closely with Nazarene
church agencies working together to end Compassionate Ministries,
hunger. The Army has been a member providing funding and
of the Canadian Foodgrains Bank since technical support for a
1996. food security project in
Bangladesh.
The Seeds of Life project is led by “But we anticipate devel-
Scott Brooks, who has donated 74 acres oping our own project over
of farmland, growing corn, wheat and the coming year, to support
soybeans on a three-year rotation. Once
the crop is harvested and sold, the pro-
ceeds go toward sponsors’ accounts at
the Canadian Foodgrains Bank.

“We are sponsoring 20 acres,” says
Major Gillian Brown, former director
of the world missions department. “The
funds, which are matched 4:1 by the
Canadian International Development
Photo: Kristin Ostensen Salvation Army ministry in
Photo: Giselle Randallone of the countries where
we have been laying the
ground work,” says Major
Brown.
Individuals and churches
can support the Seeds of Life Mjr Gillian Brown; Mjr Brenda Murray, director of world missions;
project and designate The and Scott Brooks attend a launch event for the project in
Salvation Army’s account at Alberton, Ont.

Territory Announces Formation B.C. Division
of Canadian Staff Songsters Puts Mission in
Canada and Bermuda will soon
have a songster brigade at the in the Canada and Bermuda Territory,” Motion
territorial level. Colonel Mark Colonel Tillsley said.
Tillsley, chief secretary, announced More than 300 delegates gath-
the formation of the Canadian Staff Under the musical leadership of ered at The Salvation Army’s
Songsters (CSS) at the welcome celebra- Major Leonard Ballantine, the CSS will Cascade Community Church
tion of commissioning weekend in June. facilitate worship, lead music workshops in Abbotsford, B.C., for the fourth British
in divisions, support territorial events Columbia divisional social services con-
“The Canadian Staff Songsters will and raise awareness of the mission of ference. The theme of the conference
endeavour, by its example, to set the The Salvation Army through musical was Mission in Motion.
standard for all aspects of Salvation outreach.
Army vocal ministry, including wor- “As Salvationists our mission is not a
ship, evangelism and integrated mission, Lt-Colonel Wendy Waters, assistant sedentary one but one of action, advocacy
territorial secretary for women’s minis- and compassion, and one of offering hope
tries, will be the group’s executive offi- to those who are experiencing the most
challenging circumstances of life,” said
cer. Supported by the music Lt-Colonel Larry Martin, then divisional
and gospel arts department, commander, addressing the delegates.
Lt-Colonel Waters will
provide spiritual, organ- With the growing complexities and
izational and administra- ever-increasing demands upon the
tive leadership to the CSS. Army’s services, the conference’s purpose
It is anticipated that their was to encourage staff, volunteers and
premier performance will officers, and equip them in their respect-
be in the Christmas season ive roles. Some of the presentations at
of 2016. the three-day conference included a
panel discussion on physician-assisted
Mjr Leonard Ballantine (right) will lead the new Canadian Staff Salvationists who are death and workshops on topics such as
Songsters, with support from Craig Lewis and the music and interested in auditioning “Trauma Informed Support for Human
gospel arts department should contact Craig Trafficking and Sex Trade Survivors,”
Lewis, territorial secretary “Housing First for Whosoever” and
for music and gospel “Combatting Compassion Fatigue and
arts, at craig_lewis@can. Vicarious Trauma.”
salvationarmy.org.
Salvationist  September 2016  7

Higher Education

The Salvation Army’s only university college is poised for the future.

Beth Conway came to Booth BY KRISTIN OSTENSEN ating to William and Catherine Booth Photo: Steve Boyd
University College in College in 1997 and its current status
Winnipeg two years ago. acclaimed, and the campus is close to in 2010. It is the only degree-granting
She had taken a year off after her hometown of Elie, Man. But it was institution in the Salvation Army world.
high school, working part time at a gro- the personal connection that brought
cery store while thinking about what she her to Booth’s doors. Today, Booth offers seven bachelor’s
wanted to do with her life. degree programs and two certificate
“I had a friend, a few years ahead of programs on its Winnipeg campus, with
The answer came when she met a me, who was going to Booth and she said further programs and courses offered
social worker. that it was a positive experience for her,” through the School for Continuing
says Conway. “The class sizes were small, Studies (SCS). As Booth has increased
“I had some experiences in my life and it was a Christian environment, and the its offerings, enrolment on campus and
with friends that showed me there was a teachers cared about you.” in the SCS has also increased steadily for
need for good social workers,” she says. the past nine years.
“And for a long time, I had been trying Not wanting the same experience as
to picture myself in different jobs, and her two older siblings—“They went to “A lot has been accomplished over
always thought, That’s not something huge universities where the classes had the last 10 years,” says Dr. Marjory Kerr,
I can do. But when I encountered this 300 people”—Conway applied to Booth, Booth’s president. “Booth has weath-
social worker and job shadowed her, it where she found not just an education, ered many challenges and we’re now
clicked. I finally thought, I can see myself but a community. in a position of strength as we develop
doing this.” From Bible College to University our reputation as a Christian university
Booth University College began in 1982 college of choice.”
Booth’s social work program is widely as Catherine Booth Bible College, gradu-

8  September 2016  Salvationist

In 2014, Booth launched a strategic settlement agency that assists newcom- nothing about. And I loved English, so, Photos: Steve Boyd
plan, Vision 2020: The Road to Booth ers. The agency’s director noted that even in the courses that weren’t business,
University, to guide the institution’s some of the clients bounced back and I gained knowledge that I’ll use the rest
development in the years ahead. One of thrived after immigrating, while others of my life.”
the plan’s six priorities is growing Booth’s did not.
university profile. “This means ensuring Along with the diversity of courses,
a vibrant culture of learning, leveraging “The director asked my students to Loner appreciated the variety of teaching
our existing academic programs and find out, How do we predict who’s going methods used at Booth.
developing new ones,” says Kerr. to do well and who’s not?” says Cresswell.
Rooted in Faith “Because, with limited resources, you “The head of the business depart-
The bachelor of social work is the largest want to put your money where the people ment, Angela Davis, catered to so many
program at the university college’s need it most.” different learning styles,” says Loner. “It
Winnipeg campus. wasn’t just, ‘Here’s a lecture, here’s your
The students spent four months homework.’ Almost every class we did
“Booth’s social work program is one something different. We’d learn about
of only two programs delivered in faith- For Dr. James Cresswell, Booth’s something and then apply it.”
based institutions in Canada, and it’s psychology program is where academics
rooted in the Salvation Army heritage meet application. “Our students have the Reflecting on her experience at
of hope, social justice and mercy,” says opportunity to do a lot of community-based, Booth, Conway says, “I’ve realized that
Bonnie Bryant, who has been program community-engaged research” I need to interact with the ideas and ask
director since 2000. questions to solidify all the connections
doing a literature review on the topic that my mind is making. In a small class,
“In the early days of the program, the of resilience, and developed a model for it is a lot easier to have a conversation
community didn’t believe that you could resilience and how it relates to adapta- with the professor.”
deliver social work within a Christian tion. Then they made a presentation to
institution—the students would be the agency and developed an assessment Tailoring the educational experience
biased, they would be evangelizing, they tool for the agency to use.
wouldn’t be able to meet clients where “Booth has so much life to it,” says Beth
they are. So even setting up practicums “Not many people get those kinds of Conway, a third-year student. “I thoroughly
was a challenge,” she notes. “But when opportunities while they’re undergradu- appreciate and enjoy my school”
I look at where we are today, there isn’t ates,” Cresswell says.
a field of practice that our students are Applied Learning to individual students is one of Booth’s
restricted from.” While each student chooses a major, core strengths, Bryant believes. “We know
curriculum and elective requirements our students, and when you know your
Booth students complete practi- ensure students receive a well-rounded students, you can work with them and
cums in various places, from hospitals education. help to stretch them, to maximize their
to Indigenous agencies, and have fur- potential,” she says.
ther opportunities to hone their skills For Alicia Loner, who graduated with
through the program’s unique “social- a bachelor of business administration “I think the best thing about the pro-
work lab.” The lab allows students to last April, the non-business courses fessors is that you can go up and talk
role-play different scenarios and watch were very valuable. “Especially world to them, inside and outside class,” says
the videos afterward. “It’s a great way religions,” she says. “I learned about dif- Conway. “They care about who you are
for them to look at how their skills are ferent cultures and religions, which I and where you’re going.”
developing,” says Bryant. had always wanted to study but knew A Christian Perspective
As a Salvation Army institution, all of
That practical experience, com- the instruction at Booth is infused with
bined with classroom learning, pays the Christian faith.
off—Booth’s social work students have
a 96-percent employment rate upon Salvationist  September 2016  9
graduation.
Unique Opportunities
As Booth continues to increase its offer-
ings, one of its newest programs is the
bachelor of arts in psychology, which
launched in 2015 under the direction
of Dr. James Cresswell.

“We designed a program that empha-
sizes applied psychology,” says Cresswell.
“Our students have the opportunity to do
a lot of community-based, community-
engaged research.”

For example, last fall, students in
Cresswell’s personality psychology
course completed a research project for a

“One way in which we try to embody says Conway. together a portfolio, reflecting their
the faith, as expressed through the Army, Unlike some Christian institutions, experiences there. “Even if they weren’t
is our focus on service and engagement Christians when they came into the col-
in the community for the betterment Booth has open enrolment, so not all stu- lege, they’ll talk about the influence of
of social good,” says Cresswell, point- dents share that faith. In the social work the environment and the religion courses
ing to Booth’s slogan: “Education for a program, approximately 40 percent of on them. Sometimes we have students
better world.” students come from other backgrounds who have had a faith background early
and worldviews. in their life and reconnect with it while
All of Booth’s instructors are they’re in the program.”
Christians, which means that faith is “It enriches the program because it Finding God
part of the ongoing discussion. gives students the opportunity to look Loner’s faith was on the rocks when she
at diversity,” says Bryant. “When they arrived at Booth in 2013. “I wasn’t sure
“The professors will mention things finish the program, they’re going to be how I wanted God in my life, and I wasn’t
like their church experience, or their working with people with diverse world- even sure if I believed in God,” she says.
personal experience with God, and it views, so to have those discussions in “Going to Booth was a scary decision
adds a richness to the discussion, because the classroom is invaluable.” because it would force me to face that.”
there’s a difference between exploring
an idea that you don’t believe in, and Bryant often sees the impact of
exploring something that is real to you,” Booth’s Christian teaching at the end
of the program, when her students put

School for Continuing Studies Expands Booth’s Reach

Photo: Timothy Cheng Booth’s School for Continuing Studies (SCS) launched in is to open up some of these courses and certificates—for
April 2014, fulfilling one of Vision 2020’s strategic priorities. example, our certificate in not-for-profit management. Many
Photo: Major John Murray Dean Lt-Colonel Susan van Duinen shares how the SCS is of our courses focus on leadership.
What’s next for the SCS?
making an impact in—and beyond— We want to develop a fully online degree—it’s not a matter of
our territory. if, but what. What is our niche as a Salvation Army educational
Why was opening the SCS a institution? We’re at the beginning of the research stage; we
priority for Booth? want to offer something that will meet a need.
Booth’s focus is education for a better
world, and what better way to reach We’re also looking beyond our territory. We’re currently
the world than through online educa- developing a program of studies for the United States, a certifi-
tion. Booth always had an element of cate in Kroc leadership, for staff at all the Kroc centres. This
distance education, but we wanted to year, the associate dean and other instructors have taught in
enhance that. Cuba, Costa Rica and Argentina. Those courses—theological
What kinds of courses does the SCS offer? courses for cadets and officers—have always been well received
There is a strong Salvation Army focus, which is good—the and well attended.
Canada and Bermuda Territory is blessed to have a denomina-
tional educational institution. Booth provides the academic Doing Business Differently
religion training for our cadets, and after commissioning they I come from a business background,
work with the SCS to complete their degree. but I wasn’t long into the Army when
What we want to do in this next phase of our development I realized that we do business quite
differently. My area commander
The School for Continuing Studies is bringing Booth University College to approached me and asked if I would
Salvationists such as these cadets in Havana, Cuba be interested in the certificate for not-
10  September 2016  Salvationist for-profit management at the SCS, and
when I looked at what courses were
offered, it was perfect for my role at the Booth Centre.

One of the instructors, Lt-Colonel Neil Watt, had this
phrase: “understanding administration as ministry.” That
threw me for a loop. I signed on as an officer for front-line
ministry. But as I took the courses, that started to resonate
with me and at the end, I had a complete understanding
that these courses were exactly what I needed to do. I handle
the finances at the Booth Centre and the not-for-profit
certificate has given me a better understanding of what
needs to be done here.

—Captain Tony Brushett, Assistant Executive Director,
Ottawa Booth Centre

Loner grew up in The Salvation The atmosphere was almost charged “Our work as an institution of higher education
Army and started attending Living with joy.” is an expression of the Army’s mission,” says
Hope Community Church when she Dr. Marjory Kerr
moved to Winnipeg. “It was a welcoming For Conway, that feeling comes from
church, really multicultural, and there the community itself: “It’s in the little was expecting school,” she says. “I was
were tons of kids,” says Loner, who was conversations, it’s how they treat you— expecting hard work. And when I think
involved with Sunday school and kids’ their faith shows.” of school, I think of cold, hard walls, an
club. Community Building empty space. But Booth has so much life
Loner, who lived on campus throughout to it. And yes, it is hard work. But at the
Though she entered Booth with her studies and was a resident assistant end of the day, even if I’m stressed out of
doubts, she reached a turning point in for two years, says the campus atmos- my mind, I can still say that I thoroughly
her faith during her second year, when phere reminded her of a Salvation Army appreciate and enjoy my school, and love
the university college hosted a Time camp. “We’d go to classes during the day, spending time there.”
to Be Holy conference. “It was a whole and then we’d hang out in the common
weekend of taking time away from real room, watch movies, go out to restau-
life and worshipping God, and learning rants,” she says. “Even though we were
how we can be holy the rest of our lives,” in school, it felt like home.”
she says.
Booth has twice-weekly “commun-
As with Loner, Conway was raised ity gatherings” that can take various
in a Christian family but came to Booth forms, from chapel services to discussion
with mixed feelings about her faith. groups. “It’s about bringing the commun-
“When I finished high school, I was in ity together, and that includes students,
a bad place,” she says. “There was a lot staff and faculty,” says Kerr.
going on, and I didn’t stay connected
to God.” “It’s not a traditional university
experience,” Loner says. “The focus isn’t
During the summer after her first on just school, it’s on the community,
year, Conway decided to give her faith your friends, your faith. It’s a school that
another shot. “Going into my second impacts the rest of your life, not just your
year, the difference was night and day,” education.”
she says. “Suddenly I could see all of
the spiritual aspects to my school that For Conway, the past two years have
I had been oblivious to my first year. been even better than she expected. “I

Public welcome service for
the 2016-2018 session of cadets

SEPTEMBER 18, 2016, 4PM CST
Elim Chapel,
546 Portage Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Live stream available online
at Salvationist.ca

CFOT

The Salvation Army College for Officer Training
Canada and Bermuda Territory

www.cfot.ca

Salvationist  September 2016  11

Lt Tinisha Reid holds a picture of her father,
Quentin Thomas, who was diagnosed with
cancer soon after she was accepted to
training college. He passed away after being
evacuated from Fort McMurray, Alta.

Grace Under Fire

As Fort McMurray burned, Lieutenant Tinisha Reid struggled to get her
cancer-stricken father to safety.

W BY GISELLE RANDALL in La Scie, N.L. He decided to try the oilsands, like thousands
e’re going to Fort McMurray. Today.” Then- of other Newfoundlanders, and “fell in love with the city and
Cadet Tinisha Reid was surprised to hear everyone there,” says Tinisha. “It felt like a new family, like
those words from her husband, Stefan, one
morning last May. Although her father lived home.”
in Fort McMurray, Alta., she had been to see him recently. In university at the time, Tinisha was struggling to find
He was battling cancer and the end was drawing near, but as her place. Although she felt called to officership, something
far as she knew, he was doing OK. So why the urgency? But was holding her back. “So when they moved,” she recalls, “I
Stefan was adamant. “There’s something telling me we have decided to go with them and take some time away from school,
to be there.” to try to figure out who I was and what God wanted me to
By 6 p.m. that evening, they were on a plane. As they flew do with my life.”
into the city, Tinisha looked out the window. “We could see Sitting around a firepit with friends one evening, she real-
the fire outside Fort McMurray—a little red glow,” she says. “It ized it was time to surrender. “From that moment, I gave
was small. It didn’t look threatening.” But things were about everything to God,” she says. “Right from the start, Dad was
to get much worse. supportive and encouraging. He was always one of my biggest
cheerleaders.”
A New Home As Tinisha began working toward officership, she
Tinisha’s parents, Quentin and Verna Thomas, moved to Fort met and married Stefan, and they continued the journey
McMurray in 2006, after restructuring affected Quentin’s job together.

12  September 2016  Salvationist

“I’ll be There” get to share such an important moment with him.
But soon after they were accepted to training college, they “Knowing his faith, and his absolute trust in God, that
received devastating news—Quentin had been diagnosed with
stage four colon cancer, two weeks before his 45th birthday. God was doing all things well, just made it so much easier.”
“You hear so many horrible stories about cancer,” says Tinisha. Evacuation
“But he never once complained or was upset with God, even Back in Winnipeg, Tinisha kept checking in with her mom,
though he had so much more to live for—he was still young, ready to drop everything at a moment’s notice if her dad took a
he had a brand-new granddaughter, his son just got engaged. turn for the worse. They waited and prayed, until the Monday
morning at the beginning of May when Stefan said, “We need
“He always said, ‘Don’t ask, “Why me?” Say, “Try me.” ’ He to go today.”
knew God was in control. His faith was so strong.”
The day before, fire crews had discovered a wildfire south-
After the diagnosis, Tinisha and Stefan wanted to put off west of Fort McMurray. By Monday evening, as they were flying
training college. “Dad was always there for me, so I didn’t want in, it had grown from two to 1,250 hectares, and firefighters
to leave him when he needed me, or take his only grandchild warned that it was going to get worse.
away,” she says. “But when we talked about it, he got upset. He
said, ‘Don’t you dare stay home for me. You have to do what God On Tuesday morning, Tinisha, Stefan and Rachel surprised
calls you to do. Don’t worry about me, I’ll be OK. All is well.’ ” her parents at home. Quentin was happy to see them, but too
weak to get up. Knowing they were there, he seemed to relax.
Quentin went through almost 70 rounds of chemo.
Throughout his treatment, he continued to work, go to church
and travel. “Even though he was extremely ill, he was never
willing to pity himself,” says Tinisha. “He never stopped life
for one minute. He was our Superman.”

As Tinisha, Stefan and their daughter, Rachel, moved to
Winnipeg to join the Messengers of Light Session, he told
them, “I’ll be at commissioning. I’m fighting for commis-
sioning. I’ll be there.”

“Knowing his faith, and his
absolute trust in God, made it

so much easier.”

—Lieutenant Tinisha Reid

Silver Star Lt Tinisha Reid shares some time at the hospital with her father, Quentin
But in March, just a few months before commissioning, doc- Thomas
tors told Quentin that his liver was failing. There was noth-
ing more they could do. Realizing he didn’t have much time, By this point, the fire was threatening the city, but it was
Tinisha flew home to Fort McMurray. Before she left, she met still on the south side of the river. Tinisha thought they were
with Major David Allen, principal at the College for Officer OK; Quentin and Verna lived in Timberlea, on the north side.
Training (CFOT).
But at noon, the fire crossed the river.
“I told him, ‘I don’t want to give my father his Silver Star “Abasand and Beacon Hill were on fire, and Thickwood
after he’s gone,’ ” says Tinisha. “I want him to know he’s get- was starting to burn,” she says. “Things started to get serious.”
ting it, I want him to know why, and I want him to be able to When they called for an ambulance, the paramedics told
wear it at least once while he’s alive.” The Silver Star is a pin them the wind was shifting again, moving the fire back south,
that new lieutenants present to a parent or mentor at commis- toward the hospital, which was about to be evacuated. They
sioning as a way to recognize and honour them, an expression said it was safest to stay put, but showed them how to move
of gratitude for their love and support. Quentin using a blanket as a stretcher.
That afternoon, the temperature soared and the fire grew.
On April 10, with the blessing of the territorial president Neighbourhood after neighbourhood received mandatory
of women’s ministries, the Fellowship of the Silver Star sec- evacuation notices.
retary and the CFOT, Tinisha gave her father his Silver Star
during a service at their corps. The worship team sang one of Salvationist  September 2016  13
Quentin’s favourite songs, He’s Been Faithful to Me, as Major
Stephen Hibbs talked about how his witness of faith had been an
inspiration not just to Tinisha, but to the whole congregation.

“As I was pinning him, it was a moment of thanksgiving
that I’ve had such a strong, amazing dad, who through so much
could still say, ‘All is well’ and that God was in control,” says
Tinisha. “But there was also so much sadness, to know that
he wasn’t going to make it to commissioning, that I wouldn’t

“We were sitting by the radio, waiting,
when all of a sudden, we heard, ‘Everybody
in Fort McMurray, get out,’ ” says Tinisha.
They quickly packed some clothes,
pictures and videos. Friends helped carry
Quentin down two flights of stairs and
tried to make him as comfortable as pos-
sible in their truck.
From Confederation Way, they merged
onto Highway 63, the only major road
through Fort McMurray. Just a few minutes
before they left, police in gas masks were
directing people north, to an oilsands work
camp. We can’t bring Dad north, there’s
nowhere to take care of him, Tinisha recalls
thinking. But for some reason, they let
them go south. Photo: Timothy Cheng
“The drive through 63 was like some-
thing from a Hollywood movie,” says
Tinisha. Houses on fire, flames shooting,
neighbourhoods smoking and obliterated.
The highway was jammed with vehicles
as almost 90,000 people fled the city. For Lts Stefan and Tinisha Reid were commissioned in June. Tinisha presented her father with a Silver
most, it took hours.
Star at their home corps in April

“From the time we left their door, to the
time we were in the safety zone, it was about half an hour,” says Alberta and Northern Territories Division, met them at the
Tinisha. “It was only God, that’s all we can say. It was God’s airport in Edmonton with a replacement as they travelled to
way of letting us know that he was with us and we were going Newfoundland and Labrador for the funeral.
to get out, and Dad wouldn’t have to be too long in the truck.” “He had an amazing home going,” says Tinisha. “Even
Late that evening, they arrived in Lac la Biche, Alta., and though he was gone at such a young age, he loved life, and he
took Quentin to the hospital. lived it to the fullest. So we had an uplifting and encouraging
worship service that reflected Dad’s life.”
All is Well Quentin had been a volunteer assistant fire chief in La
Two nights later, Quentin passed away with his family and Scie. At the end of the service, firefighters provided an honour
friends around him. His last words were, “I love you. I want guard and the casket was taken to the cemetery in a fire truck.
to go to heaven. I want to see Jesus.” “Stefan did the committal, and then we sang Dad’s favourite
Earlier that day, they learned their house was destroyed chorus,” says Tinisha. “We ended by releasing red and blue
in the fire; the Silver Star Tinisha had given her father was balloons—Superman colours—into the air.
lost. Major Ron Cartmell, divisional commander for the “As we released them, we shouted, ‘All is well!’ ”

SHARE Salvation Army Publications WITH A FRIEND!

❏ Salvationist (includes Faith & Friends) From:
Your name: ���������������������������������������������
(Canada $30; US $36; other countries $41) Address: __________________ Town/city: ��������������������
Province/state: ____________ Postal/zip code: ���������������
❏ Faith & Friends Phone: ____________________ E-mail: �����������������������
(Attach a separate sheet for additional subscriptions)
(Canada $17; US $22; other countries $24)
Send a gift card ❏ Yes ❏ No
❏ Foi & Vie (French version of Faith & Friends)
Payment: ❏ Cheque (Payable to The Salvation Army)
(Canada $25; US $30; other countries $32) ❏ Visa ❏ Mastercard

❏ Just for Kids Name on card: ������������������������������������������
Card #: ___________________ Expiry date: ������������������
(Canada $12; US $15; other countries $17)
Return to: T he Salvation Army, 2 Overlea Blvd.,
To: Toronto ON M4H 1P4 or contact 416-422-6119;
[email protected]; salvationist.ca/subscribe
Name: ������������������������������������������������

Address: __________________ Town/city: �������������������

Province/state: ____________ Postal/zip code: ��������������

Phone: ____________________ E-mail: ����������������������

14  September 2016  Salvationist

Thank God for PERSPECTIVES
the Red Cross effort, not to serve our own
interests.
Rather than competing, let’s complement 3. The Salvation Army is a multi-
like-minded charities. faceted service organization. While
we value our emergency disaster
BY LT-COLONEL JIM CHAMP services (EDS), expanding our pres-
ence means diverting resources
Photo: Ottawa Sun, a division of Postmedia Network Inc. from other essential ministries.
Those who followed the news on our
The Salvation Army and the Canadian Red Cross joined forces in 1998 to aid families of the victims of websites and social media channels will
SwissAir flight 111, which crashed off the coast of Nova Scotia know that The Salvation Army was quick
to spring into action. On April 30, we
Who can forget the sight of After the government declared a provided support to the Fort McMurray
thousands of Albertans state of emergency, the Red Cross was Fire Department and set up an Incident
fleeing for their lives down given oversight of the support services Command Centre in Edmonton. We
Highway 63? Walls of flame threatened for displaced residents—a mammoth partnered with charities such as Urban
from every side. Canadians were anx- undertaking. It meant registering and Rescue and served as many as 4,000
iously glued to televisions and computer tracking tens of thousands of people meals a day to first responders.
screens, praying for their safety. who desperately needed shelter, food The hours were long and arduous.
and clothing. Changing weather conditions put those
“Where is The Salvation Army in on the front lines at risk. Sleeping accom-
the midst of all this chaos?” asked one So what about the caller’s question? modations were primitive. Our teams of
caller to my office. “Why are other char- Was the Army pushed into the back- volunteers stood tall in these difficult
ities, such as the Red Cross, all over the ground by the government and various circumstances.
news and there’s hardly a mention of the media outlets? Were we not mobilized? At the beginning of the crisis, the
Army?” It’s a fair and direct question, Were we somehow ineffective in telling mayor of Fort McMurray invited the
but the answer is complex. our story? Here is my response: Army to provide emotional and spiritual
1. I thank God for dedicated Red support to citizens. The mayor under-
The Fort McMurray fires represent stood that The Salvation Army has been
the largest natural disaster in Canadian Cross workers who provide a much- a presence in the community for almost
history. An entire city was evacuated. needed service. We are not in 40 years. And when the smoke clears and
Many of the 88,000 residents had only 30 competition with them or any other life returns to normal, the Sally Ann will
minutes to race home, gather the family, charitable organization that seeks to continue to serve those in need.
grab one or two personal treasures and help others. On June 1, as residents trickled back
hit the road. Miraculously, no one per- 2. When disaster strikes, the focus in to assess what was left of their posses-
ished in the fire, apart from the tragic should always be on the victims. We sions, the Army was present at all eight
road accident that claimed the lives of are there to serve in whatever way welcome centres to greet them. As Major
two young people. is most beneficial to the collective Ron Cartmell, divisional commander for
the Alberta and Northern Territories
Division, noted, “The focus was on being
the hands and feet of Jesus.”
Lessons are learned every time
disaster strikes. Whether it’s 9/11, the
SwissAir disaster, the Red River floods
or ice storms, the Army will be there. In
the meantime, hats off to the Red Cross
and thousands of others who reached out
with helping hands to their neighbours
in distress.

EDS by the Numbers
•• Trained personnel/volunteers across

Canada: 3,321
•• Canteens and support vehicles: 47
•• Average yearly responses (fires, first

responder support, etc.): 250
•• Emergency services training

courses: 17

Lt-Colonel Jim Champ is the secretary for
communications for the Canada and Bermuda
Territory.

Salvationist  September 2016  15

SPIRITUAL LIFE

A Place at the Table

Practising the Christian tradition of hospitality.

BY CARLA AND JONATHAN EVANS

In our culture, hospitality is a forgot- Showing Photo: © hookmedia/stock.Adobe.com
ten way of life. Even in our churches, hospitality isn’t
a weak cup of coffee after the mor- about impressing
ning service is often our only expression people with our
of this ancient practice. But hospital-
ity is at the heart of our faith, rooted in cooking and
God’s welcome toward us, in sending his decorating skills.
Son to make us no longer enemies, but
friends (see Romans 5:10-11). In Reaching help you become more like him in instead, ask God to show you the
Out, Henri Nouwen writes that this is, the way he welcomes and loves. gift he has given you to share:
in fact, our Christian vocation—to con- 2. Read Genesis 18:1-15, 1 Kings 17:8- “Show hospitality to one another
vert hostility into hospitality, strangers 24 and Luke 24:13-35. Discuss how without grumbling. As each has
into guests. these stories show hospitality bring- received a gift, use it to serve one
ing life to both guest and host. another, as good stewards of God’s
Showing hospitality isn’t about 3. A sk yourself: How can I be a better varied grace” (1 Peter 4:9-10 ESV).
impressing people with our cooking listener? How can I offer the gifts When you consider the possibilities
and decorating skills; you don’t need of presence, safety and love? What for offering a sense of home, rest
to be Martha Stewart. It’s about open- obstacles keep me from offering and refreshment to others, what
ing our lives to others, creating a space unrushed time to others? excites you?
where strangers may enter and dis- 4. R eflect on these questions: Am 7. B rainstorm creative ways you can
cover the welcoming spirit of Christ. I a place where God happens for offer hospitality to strangers as a
Rowan Williams, former Archbishop others? How do I live with my own family or small group.
of Canterbury, beautifully describes our needs and failures in a way that God is extravagant in his welcom-
calling to “become a place where God points others to God, and creates ing and giving. When Jesus sent out his
happens for somebody else.” a safe place for them to share their disciples, he reminded them, “Freely
own needs and failures? you have received; freely give” (Matthew
This calling requires humility. 5. Ask a trusted and loving friend to 10:8). In a world obsessed with status
When we find ourselves with someone give you honest feedback about and competition, no-strings-attached
unknown or unexpected, different or the ways they see you living out hospitality is a subversive and healing
even difficult, we are being invited to Christian hospitality. Take the risk practice. We can, by the Spirit, reflect
be hospitable. to also ask them to point out any the nature of our initiating, gracious,
“blind spots” in your life that may extravagant God.
It also requires time. We can provide prevent you from being a welcoming
a meal or a carefully prepared room, and gracious presence to others. Carla and Jonathan Evans are the corps leaders at
but the deeper need is for a sense of 6. Don’t compare yourself to others; Boundless Vancouver.
belonging, safety and love, expressed
through the gift of presence. We can
offer this gift in many ways: listening
intently as someone shares, instead of
thinking about what you want to say;
taking off your headphones so you’re
available for conversation during your
commute home; inviting a neighbour’s
children to join yours to play so she can
have some quiet time; or sharing part of
your vegetable garden with strangers.

Consider how God’s work of grace
in your life can be an open and spacious
meeting place for others. Here are some
ideas for further reflection, study and
action.
1. Prayerfully meditate on Romans

5:6-11 from The Message. Keep a
journal as you pray and ask God to

16  September 2016  Salvationist

Beyond Shelter helped to move beyond the shelter to a
better life, and to check and make sure
Seeking housing—and justice— they’re still there the day or month or
for those most at risk. year after that. The operating principles
call us to excellence.
BY MARY ELLEN EBERLIN
Engagement with Salvation Army
Photo: © bodnarchuk/iStock.comSocial justice is one of the Canada shelters has included site visits in various
and Bermuda Territory’s seven regions, webinars with shelter leaders
strategic priorities. In a previ- For those experiencing or at risk of and staff, presentations to divisional
ous issue, Jessica McKeachie, homelessness, The Salvation Army does advisory boards, meetings with div-
public affairs director for the territory, so much already: we provide food and isional executive boards, one-on-one
provided an overview of the Army’s goal beds, but also safety and a measure of support by phone and in person, as well
to promote the dignity of all people, friendship and belonging. The seven as the development of a series of accredit-
especially the marginalized and vul- operating principles ask us to do even ation standards specifically designed for
nerable. One of the ways we are seeking more. emergency shelters.
to do this is through our response to
homelessness. They call us to help end homelessness Reactions have understandably
for those who are the most vulnerable been mixed. Some shelter managers
In 2015, The Salvation Army’s and marginalized—those experien- are enthusiastic about the solid foun-
national advisory board and the terri- cing ongoing and recurring bouts of dation and direction offered by these
torial management board endorsed seven homelessness. They call us to take care evidence-based principles. Others ques-
operating principles (to read the prin- of the whole person—body, mind and tion whether the principles are required
ciples, visit SalvationArmy.ca/shelters) to soul; to attend to a person’s traumatic or can be enforced. They wonder if
align our 54 emergency shelters with best experiences, their weaknesses as well as people will “buy in” when they don’t have
practices in the field. Recognizing that strengths, and their physical, emotional to. Some have been quick to identify
these principles reflect a social justice and mental health. They call us to meet potential costs associated with specific
approach, the social services department people where they are, to accept them principles and are concerned that they
is championing this initiative under the at their point of need and let them in. don’t have the necessary funds—funds
mobilize banner. They call us to walk alongside people that are perpetually stretched as the tide
who need help. of homelessness swells.
The principles are the result of wide-
ranging consultations with staff, clients, They call us to prevent people from We are engaged in a challenging
researchers and community leaders that slipping in and out of our shelters, and change process and the journey must
answered the question, “What are the instead to do the hard work of finding include open dialogue and learning from
best practices for ending homelessness, positive, sustainable housing for people one another, recognition of regional dif-
and how can Salvation Army shelters who have trouble finding it (and keeping ferences and varying funder expecta-
measure effectiveness in achieving this it) for themselves. They call us to keep tions, as well as access to tools, training
outcome?” track of not just how many meals we and shared stories of success. But we are
serve or beds we supply or dollars we committed to this course.
spend, but how many people we have
We cannot do this alone; not us in
the social services department, not any
individual division, not any one shelter in
the territory and not The Salvation Army
in isolation from other partners. The
seven operating principles for emergency
shelters also ask us to work together as
an Army, as compassionate and caring
people, committed to social justice to
promote the dignity of all.
Mary Ellen Eberlin is the social services secretary
for the Canada and Bermuda Territory. Article
prepared with assistance from Allison McDonald
and Dr. Amy Fisher, consultants in the social
services department.

You can read more about the seven
strategic priorities at salvationist.ca/
strategic-priorities.

Salvationist  September 2016  17

Retired. hope is in you all day long.”
Now What? These verses became my daily cry

Ministry may change, but the call continues. to God, and, through them, I began to
sense him leading me. I realized that
BY MAJOR GEOFFREY GROVES I was troubled because I had allowed
my ministry in the Army to become
Photo: © SIphotography/iStock.com How are you enjoying retire- my identity, to define who I was. I arro-
ment?” My wife, Linda, gantly felt that I wouldn’t be retired for
and I must have been own home, with furniture that doesn’t very long; the Army would soon call
asked that question hun- reflect someone else’s taste, and sleep- because they couldn’t function with-
dreds of times in the months since we ing soundly on a Saturday night. My out me. Guess what? They didn’t, and
retired. At first we’d chuckle and give the heart doesn’t race every time the phone they can! I couldn’t understand why I
expected answer, but as time went on, I rings anymore, and I’m no longer staring had fallen into this trap, because dur-
started to answer in a more serious tone, in bafflement at the latest accounting ing our active years, Linda and I had
“I don’t know, because I’m not sure what system iteration. I’m enjoying having a always looked forward eagerly when we
retirement means for me as a Salvation less punishing schedule, and knowing changed appointments, never backward
Army officer.” I could buy that Mustang convertible regretfully.
I’ve always dreamed about (if my wife
I still don’t have a simple answer to would let me!). My personal mission statement,
that question. As the months slide by I almost from the moment I accepted
do find myself making more sense out But as I reflected on this new phase, Christ, was based around our territorial
of this new phase in my life and looking I quickly discovered that a life based mission statement: to share the gospel,
forward, with a growing sense of excite- around leisure, travel and possessions, a meet human needs and be a trans-
ment, to where God is leading me. life with no responsibilities, is a life that forming influence in the community.
is going to become tedious, meaningless God showed me that this hadn’t changed.
In my early days of retirement, I and empty, very quickly. All I needed was some patience and he
continually asked myself, is retirement would indeed show me his ways.
something we’ve earned? Do we deserve To help make sense of my new situa-
it because we’ve worked hard since leav- tion, I did what I did when I first felt As the months went by, I became
ing training college? Is retirement about God’s call on my life to become an officer, more involved in the life of the corps we
us doing what we want to do, when we and what I’ve done every time we were attend. During an unexpected visit to our
want to do it, without a thought for any- faced with major new responsibilities: I local emergency room, I had a long chat
one else? turned to verses 4 and 5 from Psalm 25: with a hospital volunteer, and as a result
“Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your I now work there as a volunteer porter. I
I will admit, I do enjoy living in my paths. Guide me in your truth and teach am excited to continue the ministry to
me, for you are God my Saviour, and my which God called me in 1996.
18  September 2016  Salvationist
Recently, Rochelle and John
McAlister were special guests at our
corps, in support of Partners in Mission.
During her message, Rochelle, reflect-
ing on their years in Zimbabwe, asked
herself: “Did I love? Did I love like Jesus?
Do I still love like Jesus?” I realized these
were questions I often asked myself dur-
ing my years of active officership, and
I am asking them still, even though I
now have that little “R” after my name
in the dispo.

God is reminding me that my mission
hasn’t changed. The ministry may be
different, but the call is ongoing.

“How are you enjoying retirement?”
“It’s different and I love every
minute!”

Major Geoffrey Groves
retired in 2015 after
serving in several corps
and one social service
appointment. He and
his wife, Major Linda
Groves, attend Barrie
Corps in Ontario.

Adopted by the Army
How growing up in a Salvation Army boys’ home set me
on the path to officership.

If it were not for The BY COLONEL NIHAL HETTIARACHCHI
Salvation Army, I have no
doubt that my life would Serving Children in Need
I accepted Jesus as my personal
Saviour when I was 10 years
have ended in disaster. old. Today, it gives me great joy
I was only a toddler when to share my testimony as a Sri
my father left, and my mother Lankan who was adopted by
found it difficult to look after The Salvation Army—through
me, my sister and my brother. the Army, I developed a strong
Having no other option, she faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
took me to the Salvation Army As a young man, I applied
Haven, which is a home for des- for Salvation Army officership
titute children in the Sri Lanka and entered training college in
Territory. At the home, I was 1983 as part of the Guardians of
cared for by many Salvation Truth Session. When I entered
Army officers and, because of the college, Major Halsey was
this, I consider The Salvation the training principal.
Army to be my parents. At The Over the past 30 years, I
Salvation Army, I was given have served in various capaci-
love, care, security, good health ties: in corps, finance, candi-
and an education. dates and youth, and social
I stayed at the Haven until services. I have been divisional
I was five, when I transferred commander, training princi-
to the Rajagiriya Boys’ Home pal, social services secretary,
to begin my schooling. When I program secretary, chief sec-
was eight, I decided I wanted to retary and now territorial
become a Salvation Army offi- commander. Out of all these
cer. With that in mind, I used positions, it was a blessing to
to draw the “S” from the Army Col Nihal Hettiarachchi speaks to a beneficiary of the Safe Water and serve needy children through-
uniform on a piece of paper and Livelihood Development project in Sri Lanka. The project, which is out Sri Lanka as the social ser-
often imitated the officers who funded by the Canada and Bermuda Tty, provided this fisherman with vices secretary, because I grew
came to the home on Sundays new fishing nets to help him improve his livelihood up in a Salvation Army home
to conduct services. In the boys’ and have experienced the lone-
homes, the officers were our role models—their love and their liness of not having a father or
caring spirit touched my heart. a home of my own, and being
During our school vacations, some of the children went back separated from my siblings.
to their own homes. I had no place to go, but I was fortunate God has been good to me
to meet a Canadian officer, Major Avril Halsey, who was serv- over the years and my heart’s
ing in Sri Lanka as a missionary. She was kind enough to take desire is to serve him faithfully,
two girls from the girls’ home and me and another boy from wherever I am, whatever the
the boys’ home to her house for vacations. Years later, one of task, until the Lord whispers to
those girls would become my wife. Colonel Rohini and I have me, “Come home.” I am deter-
been married for more than 20 years and have been blessed mined to show love and care to
with two daughters and one son. the most needy people, to pray
Major Halsey still calls me putha, a Sinhala word that means for the sick and the suffering,
“son.” I call her suduamma, which means “white mother.” and to lift up the children
Even though she is retired and living in Vancouver, she still Nihal as a child at Rajagiriya Boys’ to the Lord, asking for his
cares for me and is in touch with me and my family. She came Home blessings.
to my wedding in 1994, all the way from Canada. I also had
the privilege to visit her in Canada in 2005. I thank God for Colonel Nihal Hettiarachchi is the territorial commander of the India South
this Canadian officer who has had a great impact on my life Western Territory. For more information about The Salvation Army’s child spon-
through the love of Jesus Christ.
sorship program, visit saworldmissions.ca.

Salvationist  September 2016  19

bring good news!’ ” (Romans 10:12-15). Photo: Timothy Cheng
At that moment, the peace and pres-
Emily and Kyron Newbury are candidates for officership
ence of the living God came upon me in
Connecting a way I had never experienced before.
the Dots The dots began to connect in my head
and I realized God’s calling on my life
A candidate reflects on her call to officership. to become an officer. Right there in the
sanctuary pew, I surrendered my will to
BY EMILY NEWBURY his plans for my life.

As I was growing up, I always just hand me the answer, so I enrolled I am always amazed how God weaves
believed that God wanted in a business program at the college in the details of our lives together. Days
me to be a music teacher. my hometown. I enjoyed my studies and later, I began working in the Ontario
I spent years taking piano began to realize how relevant they were Camping Ministries office at Jackson’s
and vocal lessons, attended a performing to everyday life. Things felt back on track, Point Camp. The divisional youth sec-
arts high school, sang in one of Toronto’s but something still wasn’t lining up. retaries became my supervisors, and
top choirs and joined every music group I soon learned they looked after can-
at my corps—all because of this deep Whenever I was at my corps, an didates for officership in my division.
desire. I applied to universities for music unsettled feeling would wash over me With their guidance and encourage-
education and began preparing my audi- and I couldn’t shake it. One evening after ment, I approached my corps officer
tion repertoire. songster practice, I sat in a pew, search- and expressed my desire to become a
ing for God’s promises in Scripture, candidate.
But throughout the process, some- hoping to ease the burdened feeling.
thing didn’t feel right. I couldn’t put my My eyes were drawn to these words: “For Since accepting his call, God’s plan
finger on it so I pressed through, attribut- there is no difference between Jew and has been abundantly clear. I met another
ing it to nerves. I wrestled with this feel- Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and candidate, Kyron, whom I now call my
ing for months, and eventually decided richly blesses all who call on him, for, husband. Our divisional youth secretar-
to withdraw my applications, including ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the ies have given us opportunities to visit
to the school I had always dreamed about Lord will be saved.’ How, then, can they ministries around our division and even
attending. I didn’t understand why this call on the one they have not believed in? take part in worship services. We have
was happening or why I couldn’t give And how can they believe in the one of had the privilege of sharing our story,
a logical explanation. I was angry with whom they have not heard? And how can and all that God has done and continues
God. they hear without someone preaching to do in our lives, from Newfoundland
to them? And how can anyone preach and Labrador to Saskatchewan.
After a season of feeling discouraged, unless they are sent? As it is written:
I knew I had to do something. I couldn’t ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who Today, I am putting my business edu-
sit around any longer hoping for God to cation to work for The Salvation Army
at territorial headquarters, and I can see
how valuable these skills will be as an
officer someday. Even when I was blind
to God’s call, he was already preparing
my heart and mind for the task ahead.

As I reflect on this unfolding journey,
I can see God’s hand in my life and how
he has already started to equip me for
full-time ministry. I can see how he made
a way when there seemed to be no way. I
can see how he placed people in my life
to mentor and shape me. On the days I
feel overwhelmed and inadequate for the
task ahead, I’m reminded that I can find
refreshment and comfort in the living,
breathing Word of God—exactly where
my surrender began.

Emily Newbury is an administrative assistant in
the office of the chief secretary for the Canada
and Bermuda Territory, and a candidate for
officership.

An officership information weekend
will be held at the College for Officer
Training in Winnipeg on October 14–
16. Contact your corps officer for more
information.

20  September 2016  Salvationist

Under the Gun #TRENDING

Another day, another mass shooting. What will prohibiting private sales and requiring
it take to change? buyers to present a “genuine reason” for
needing a weapon. Since then, there have
BY CAPTAIN MARK BRAYE been no mass shootings.

Columbine. Virginia Tech. Sandy under 11 have been shot or killed. As a Canadian, the political divisive-
Hook. Orlando. Each name, Another argument is: “The only thing ness and hostility surrounding this issue
each place, brings back horrific in the U.S. are mystifying; stronger gun
that stops a bad guy with a gun is a good regulations seem like common sense.
images of terror and violence, of people guy with a gun.” The chief of police in Many Americans are just as frustrated.
killed in mass shootings. The statistics Dallas discredited this idea after the
of mass shootings in the United States— shooting in their city this past July, not- A recent documentary by Abigail
defined as a single incident in which four ing that in spite of the fact that several Disney examines gun culture in the
or more people are shot or killed—are people near the area were exercising their U.S. and raises compelling questions.
staggering. In 2015, there were 332 mass right to “open carry,” five police officers The Armor of Light focuses on Reverend
shootings and 13,441 gun deaths. From were still shot and killed. Rob Schenck, a conservative evangel-
2005 to 2015, 71 people ical who leads a ministry to politicians
died in terrorist attacks in Washington, D.C. A shooting in his
on U.S. soil. In the same neighbourhood causes him to advocate
time period, 301,797 against gun violence, even though he
people were killed by loses donations and is worried about
guns. being branded a liberal.
To be fair, the United
States does not have a The documentary captures the
monopoly on gun vio- moment he meets Lucy
lence. There have been McBath, whose unarmed
mass shootings in other 17-year-old son was shot
countries, including and killed at a gas station
Canada. But what the in Florida in a dispute
U.S. does have is a gun with a man over loud
culture. The Second music. During their con- Photo: © STILLFX/iStock.com
Amendment to the U.S. versation, McBath says,
Constitution reads: “A “We’re deceived into
well regulated militia, believing that we are so
being necessary to the powerful because we have
security of a free state, [guns] that will protect
the right of the people [us]. Instead of looking
to keep and bear arms, to God, righteously, as
shall not be infringed.” the protector, we have
At the time it was written, local militia replaced God with guns.”
protected people—their homes, farms In 2015, there were At another point in
and livelihoods. the film, Schenck says,
Today, the well-meaning intention of “In respecting the Second
Amendment, we must be
332 mass shootingsa document from the 1700s is used to careful we don’t violate
justify the right to own guns—a right the second command-
ment.” Have guns become
in the United States.fiercely defended by lobby groups such as
the National Rifle Association (NRA)— an idol? Can a Christian be pro-life and
even though weapons and society have pro-gun?
changed. Others say that gun control won’t
I know the pushback: “Guns don’t kill work. Australia’s example proves other- After every mass shooting, people
people. People kill people.” Or, “It’s a sin wise. In 1996, a gunman killed 35 people offer “thoughts and prayers” for the vic-
problem, not a gun problem.” Is it a sin and wounded 23 others at a resort in tims and their families. While we should
problem when a toddler finds a gun and Tasmania. Twelve days after the inci- pray, it’s not enough. As the Apostle
accidentally kills herself or someone else? dent, then-Prime Minister John Howard James wrote, “Can’t you see that faith
It has already happened more than 20 introduced new gun laws, including a without good deeds is useless?” (James
times this year. And almost 350 children buy-back program, gun registration, 2:20 NLT). We need stronger and bet-
ter laws.

Tertullian, an early Christian author,
wrote, “In disarming Peter, Christ dis-
armed all Christians.” Are we followers
of “the Way” or “the gun”?

Captain Mark Braye is the corps officer at Sarnia
Community Church, Ont.

Salvationist  September 2016  21

HERSTORY

Dressed to Kill

Do you know the true cost of your clothing?

BY LIEUTENANT KRISTEN JACKSON-DOCKERAY

Ever since God fashioned garments
of animal skins for Adam and
Eve in the Garden of Eden (see
Genesis 3:21), clothing has not only
protected us, it has profoundly influ- Photo: © pressmaster/stock.Adobe.com
enced our lives. Clothing can express
our identity and sense of self, mark us
as part of a group or display our social
status. Clothing ourselves each day is a
deeply political act.
Yet despite the important role that
clothing plays in our lives, we rarely
think about where our clothes come from
or the people who make them. The fact value of things and people. We need to are known to have unsatisfactory
of the matter is that the global manufac-
turing system is broken. In the cutthroat
world of retail, consumer demand for low
prices paired with the increasing price
of raw materials means companies who
are eager to cut costs are left with one recognize the ethical implications of auditing practices. Check out the
choice: cheap labour. our choices. We need to start asking 2016 Australian Fashion Report for
Every year, 80 billion garments are important questions, such as, “How can more information: baptistworldaid.
produced worldwide to feed the hunger I claim to want to live like Christ when I org.au/assets/Be-Fair-Section/
for fast and cheap fashion, but we have continue to buy into labour practices FashionReport.pdf.
become increasingly disconnected from that exploit and dehumanize the poor?” •• Buy fair trade. The World Fair
the people who clothe us—people who We who claim to be followers of Jesus Trade Organization provides an
make barely enough to feed their fam- need to share God’s love in the clothing international standard and guaran-
ilies, work in unsafe conditions, or worse, we choose. tee system for its members, which
have even lost their lives. In 2013, more It’s not easy to make the commitment commit to fair trade principles and
than 1,000 garment factory workers in to ethical shopping. Yet as ones who are practices throughout their supply
Bangladesh died when their building clothed with Christ (see Galatians 3:27), chains. The fair trade market is
collapsed. we have a responsibility to protect the growing rapidly and it is becom-
poor, the widowed and the orphaned by ing easier and easier to find items
When we buy a piece of clothing, we demanding transparency in manufactur- produced in a way that contributes
often fail to recognize the true cost—that ing, and by redirecting our spending to to sustainable development. Some
it comes at the expense of those who are companies and organizations that treat of my favourites are: krochetkids.
most vulnerable. people with dignity. org, iamjustone.ca, etsy.com/shop/
Where to begin? There are several StitchedTogetherUG, thegivingkeys.
This is a far cry from God clothing com, elegantees.com, thelittle
Adam and Eve. Imagine God in the gar-
den, incredibly sad and disappointed in options:
his children for disobeying him, and yet •• Shop second-hand. Yes, this bene- market.com.
he lovingly stitches together clothing for fits The Salvation Army, but it Perhaps fast fashion seems difficult
them, demonstrating his abiding role as also reduces the demand for new to overcome. You can’t change every-
caretaker. goods while offering an economical thing right away. But small changes can
alternative to fair trade. make a difference. Human lives are at
When we consider that it was God •• Buy products from companies stake. As we clothe ourselves each day,
who first clothed us, it’s not acceptable we can take part in a political act that
that we exploit the labour of others. No with transparent supply chains. cares about the vulnerable, the hurting,
one should ever have to sacrifice them- Companies such as online clothing the exploited. We can fashion a response
selves so we can wear the latest trend. retailer Everlane provide detailed that says people matter.
Cheaply made clothing not only breaks information on their manufacturing
the backs of the workers who supply our process so consumers can make an
wants, it breaks the heart of God. informed decision before purchas-
So what do we do? ing. Avoid companies that make Lieutenant Kristen Jackson-Dockeray is the
We need to rediscover the true no mention of their factories or divisional youth secretary in the British Columbia
Division.

22  September 2016  Salvationist

Setting
Up

Shop

In the market for
products that bring

hope? Women’s
ministries department

launches Others
program in Canada

and Bermuda.

BY MAJOR SHIRLEY KING Others—Trade for Hope is a Salvation Army social enterprise that creates employment
opportunities for people connected to Army community development projects and corps.
General William Booth once All products are handmade or include elements of craftsmanship
sent a telegram to offi-
cers around the world to time an Others product is purchased, program as a way to raise awareness of Photos: Jan Stoerksen
remind them of their call- producers are paid a fair wage. It means global social justice issues and support
ing. The telegram contained only one children go to school, women learn to read the work of the international Salvation
word—OTHERS. That single word cap- and families have enough to eat. Others Army. We encourage each division in
tures the heart of The Salvation Army. is a partnership that changes lives. the territory to promote Others with a
women’s ministries event. Participants
It’s also the name of the Army’s social And we can be part of it in Canada will be able to shop at this event, know-
enterprise, Others—Trade for Hope. and Bermuda. The women’s ministries ing they are making a difference with
Others creates employment opportun- department is launching the Others every purchase. Program kits are avail-
ities for people connected to Army com- able—including a PowerPoint presenta-
munity development projects and corps. tion, samples of the products and ideas
All products are handmade or include for activities and ways to connect with
elements of craftsmanship, such as women in producing countries.
embroidery from Pakistan, handwoven
scarves from Bangladesh, bead work Others is a ministry of hope and
from Kenya and linen from Moldova. transformation. To learn more or to
order a program kit to host an event,
But they are more than just products. contact [email protected].
Behind each item is a unique story of
dignity, independence and hope. Every Major Shirley King is the co-ordinator of women’s
ministries resources and the administrator of the
Others program for the Canada and Bermuda
Territory.

Salvationist  September 2016  23

Photo: Courtesy of Autumn Productions CROSS CULTURE ON THE WEB
Faith in Canada 150: Thread of
IN REVIEW 1,000 Stories
Assimilate or Go Home
faithincanada150.ca
Notes from a failed missionary on Faith in Canada 150 is a project of Cardus, a Canadian think
rediscovering faith tank that focuses on Christian social thought and the common
BY D.L. MAYFIELD good. Ahead of Canada’s 150th anniversary next year, Cardus
From childhood, D.L. Mayfield wanted launched the project to celebrate faith in the country’s past,
to be a missionary, so she was thrilled present and future. Part of this project is the Thread of 1,000
when the opportunity arose to work with Stories initiative, which allows ordinary Canadians to share
a group of Somali Bantu refugees in her their faith. As the website notes, “It’s not to make a polemical
hometown of Portland, Oregon. But as or dogmatic or evangelizing argument. It’s to show the very
time went by, her enthusiasm began to existence of stories of faith in Canada proves faith is an essen-
wane, her faith was challenged and the tial part of the whole
real work of learning to love and serve Canadian story.” Visit
her neighbours became harder, deeper faithincanada150.ca/
and more complex. “The more I failed to initiatives/1000stories
communicate the love of God to my refugee friends, the more to read stories that
I experienced it for myself,” Mayfield writes. “The more over- have already been
whelmed I felt as I became involved in the myriads of problems shared and find out
facing my friends who experience poverty in America, the less how to add your own.
pressure I felt to attain success or wealth or prestige. And the
more my world started to expand at the edges of my periphery, Canadians are invited to
the more it became clear that life was more beautiful and more add their faith stories to
terrible than I had been told.”
the thread
Assimilate or Go Home is a collection of essays, divided
into four “movements” that mimic refugees’ acclimatization The Babylon Bee
process: Anticipation, Reality, Depression and Stabilization.
In this book, Mayfield invites readers to reconsider their babylonbee.com
concepts of justice and love, and gain a new understanding You may have seen the headlines pop up on social media: “God
of the kingdom of God. Hoping Facebook Post Reaches Sufficient Number of Likes So
He Can Heal Sick Child.” “Local Christian’s E-mail Signature
IN THE NEWS the Entire Book of Isaiah.” “Church Unveils New Full-Body
Virtual Reality Brings Jesus (Back) to Life Massage Pews.”

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to experience Of course, these aren’t real headlines (though perhaps some
the Sermon on the Mount first-hand? Thanks to a new virtual of us wish that last one was). They come from The Babylon
reality film, that may soon be possible. Jesus VR—The Story of Bee, a satirical news site akin to The Onion. It’s run by Adam
Christ is a 90-minute virtual reality re-enactment of the New Ford who, prior to the Bee’s launch, was best known for his
Testament, covering Jesus’ birth, death and Resurrection, as “curiously Christian” webcomic at Adam4d.com.
well as key events in between. The film was shot in 360-degree
4K video in Italy, and is executive produced by Enzo Sisti, who Some Christians might feel slightly uncomfortable with
also worked on The Passion of the Christ. the idea of poking fun at the faith. But Ford believes satire
can help Christians examine themselves. “Satire acts like an
“The viewers truly feel they are there with Jesus and his overhead projector, taking something that people usually ignore
disciples,” says director David Hansen. “This is the most and projecting it up on the wall for everyone to see,” Ford
powerful story of all time and virtual reality is the perfect
way to tell it.” told Christianity
Today. “It forces
The film will be available on all major mobile and pre- us to look at things
mium VR platforms including Google Cardboard, Samsung we wouldn’t nor-
Gear, Oculus Rift, PlayStation VR and the HTC Vive, and mally look at and
makes us ask if
is expected to be we’re OK with
released in time them. And some-
for Christmas. times it just makes
us laugh. That’s all
healthy stuff.”

Tim Fellingham
stars as Jesus in a
new film coming
this December

24  September 2016  Salvationist

PEOPLE & PLACES

GUELPH, ONT.—Guelph Citadel rejoices as 11 senior soldiers are enrolled. Front, from left, Mjr Chris Pilgrim, CO; Nicolas Pitcher; Jennifer McGirr; Dallas Evans;
from left, CSM Donna Harris, Bruce Merritt, Nathaniel Merritt, Ryan Seguin, Carter Jones; and Timothy Pilgrim.
Emma Pinson, Debra Caine, Judy Arnott and Mjr Claudette Pilgrim, CO. Back,

GRAND FALLS-WINDSOR, N.L.—Standing under the flag held by Jason Young, colour sergeant, eight ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Bram Thorne and his grandmother,
senior soldiers join the ranks at Park Street Citadel. From left, CSM Lorraine White; Mjr Larry Goudie, CO; Mrs. Mjr Georgie Thorne, present $2,500 to Mjrs
Paul Tilley; Verdon Young; Shenaya Tulk; Margaret Roberts; Colleen Regular; Jim Mercer; Alvin Regular; Brian and Valerie Wheeler, COs, in support of St.
Thomas Barry; and Mjr Judy Goudie, CO. John’s Citadel’s fundraising efforts for Partners in
Mission. Each year, Mrs. MjrThorne and her daughter
engage in a friendly competition to see who can
raise the most money from the sale of their knitted
goods. They then add the amounts together to help
finance the Army’s worldwide ministries.

WINNIPEG—Living Hope CC enrols five senior soldiers and recognizes three adherents. Front, from left, ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—John Pike is commissioned as the
then Cdts Alexander and Rhonda MacDonald, training leaders; Joshua MacDonald, Beverly Partaker, assistant corps sergeant-major at St. John’s Citadel.
senior soldiers; Maureen Capuska, adherent; Fred Blackburn, colour sergeant; Sandra Capuska, Mary With him are Mjrs Brian and Valerie Wheeler, COs,
Giesbrecht (front), Denise Lee, senior soldiers; Jedediah and Robyn Cox, adherents, with William Cox; and Jonathan Pike, John’s son, holding the flag.
and Cpts Shelly and James Rands, COs.

Salvationist  September 2016  25

PEOPLE & PLACES

CHARLOTTETOWN, N.L.—Charlotte Gloria Fallon is dedicated back to the ACTON, ONT.—On a special community care ministries Sunday at Acton CC,
Lord by her parents, Fallon and Craig Stringer. With them is Mjr Lillian Pelley, Eileen and Ernie Coles are recognized as they conclude 45 years of service
CO, who performed the ceremony, and Charlotte’s grandparents and her big through community care ministries. At the same time, Eileen retired from the
brother, Jackson. position of community care ministries secretary following 20 years of faithful
service. From left, Lilly Shewring; Gloria Vermeulen; Avis Jerritt-Benoit; Mjr Rick
Pollard, CO; Gary Coles, son of Ernie and Eileen Coles, holding the flag; Ernie
Coles; Eileen Coles; Mjr Drucella Pollard, CO; Noreen Wilson; and Pat Politi.

WHITBY, ONT.—Whitby CC presents Aubrey Reid and Bill Warford with pins and
certificates to honour them as band reservists. From left, Mjr Warrick Pilgrim,
then CO; Aubrey Reid; BM Norm Kitney; and Bill Warford.

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—As the first corps in Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John’s
Temple’s 130th anniversary celebrations also commemorate the beginning of
The Salvation Army’s work in the province. Marking the occasion are, front,
from left, Ana Ramirez-Cruz; Stephanie Purdy; Lucy Woodland, oldest senior
soldier; Maggie Lee; and Michael Hancock. Back, from left, Mjr Rene Loveless,
CO; Lt-Col Jean Hefford, then DDWM, N.L. Div; Commissioner Susan McMillan,
territorial commander and leader of the anniversary festivities; Lt-Col Douglas
Hefford, then DC, N.L. Div; and Mjr Wanda Loveless, CO.

RICHMOND, B.C.—Richmond Corps rejoices as six senior soldiers are enrolled.
From left, Mjrs Ed and Kathie Chiu, COs; Jane Duo; Hillary Zhao; Crystal Zhang;
Lt-Cols Velma and Larry Martin, then DC and DDWM, B.C. Div; John Fisher,
holding the flag; Rose Lim; Fabi Guan; Beth Ovenden; and Timothy and Greensa
Chan, Chinese ministries leaders.

DILDO, N.L.– Mjrs WINNIPEG—Adherents Jadesola and Felix Olowolafe present their baby, Babajide
Garry and Sandra Vincent, during a traditional Nigerian naming ceremony at Southlands CC.
Ward, COs, and This ceremony is an important aspect of many African cultures, symbolizing
Trinity Bay South the family’s hopes and dreams for their new child. Chosen names often reflect
Corps welcome family members, circumstances and biblical figures. Cpts Peter and Lee-Ann
Cora Smith as the van Duinen, COs, participate in the occasion.
young people’s
sergeant-major.

26  September 2016  Salvationist

PEOPLE & PLACES

OSHAWA, ONT.—These are exciting days at Oshawa Temple as six senior soldiers are enrolled. From left, GAMBO, N.L.—Two young people take a stand for
Col Lynette Rowe, CO; Julianna Gerard; Abigail Mouland; Samantha Lyons; Charlie Ball, holding the flag; Christ as they are enrolled at Gambo Corps. From
Jordan Lyons; Emma Church; Stephen Leigh; Col Lindsay Rowe, CO; and RS Kevin Thompson. left, Cassidy Dyke and Genessa Peckford.

WINDSOR, ONT.—The corps family at South Windsor warmly welcomes four WINDSOR, ONT.—South Windsor Corps celebrates as, from left, Joseph Moon,
adherents to their fellowship. From left, Mjr Scott Rideout, then CO; Bruce Jacob Furia and Ayden Gross-Haggert are enrolled as junior soldiers. Back,
Dalrymple, colour sergeant; Sam Siddall; Edwin Ferguson; Brian and Lynn from left, Mjrs Scott and Michelle Rideout, then COs; Donna Burak, youth
Ritchie; and Mjr Michelle Rideout, then CO. director; and Jody Roy, junior soldier teacher.

MUSGRAVETOWN, N.L.—Celebrating the 120th anniversary of Islandview WINDSOR, ONT.—Two young people are enrolled as senior soldiers at South
Citadel are, from left, Mjrs Ed and Luanne Barrow, then COs; Gordon Humby, Windsor Corps. From left, Mjr Michelle Rideout, then CO; Jonathan Dalrymple;
oldest senior soldier; Leah Wells, youngest junior soldier; and Mjrs Ross and Corbyn Sutton; and Mjr Scott Rideout; then CO.
Doreen Grandy, guest leaders and former COs.

DILDO, N.L.—Joshua WINNIPEG—Fred Blackburn is commissioned as the colour sergeant at Living
Newhook is the Hope CC. With him are, from left, Mjr Margaret McLeod, then AC, Prairie Div;
newest junior sol- and Cpts Shelly and James Rands, COs.
dier at Trinity Bay
South Corps. With
him are, from left,
CSM Glen Reid,
YPSM Cora Smith
and Mjrs Sandra and
Garry Ward, COs.

Salvationist  September 2016  27

PEOPLE & PLACES KENTVILLE, N.S.—Melvin Gideon Pilgrim accepted Christ
as a young boy in St. Anthony Bight, N.L. Together with his
TRIBUTES wife, Gertrude, he was a long-time soldier of St. Anthony
Corps, where he enjoyed the vibrant worship that was part
GRAND BANK, N.L.—Mildred Loveless was born in Grand of the Army’s church services, as well as the leadership
Bank in 1931 and promoted to glory one month after her opportunities the Army provided. Melvin served in several
85th birthday. She accepted Christ at the age of 15, and local officer positions, retiring as the corps sergeant-major.
eventually became a teacher. Feeling led to serve the Lord He possessed a strong faith in the Lord. He was never bashful in sharing his
as an officer, Mildred entered the training college and was faith and no one doubted his strong relationship with the Lord. Melvin and
commissioned in the Shepherds Session, and served as an Gertrude transferred to Kentville Community Church in 2008 to be closer to
officer-teacher until she met and married Willis Loveless. family where he was active until his health prevented him from attending.
After living in Lethbridge, N.L., they moved to Grand Bank where she taught Following a stroke in 2014, Melvin often stated he wanted to go home to be
in the Salvation Army school. Mildred influenced the lives of youth as she with the Lord; the Lord has granted his desire, and he is now delighting in the
taught piano and was active in the corps. She served as cradle roll sergeant, Lord’s presence. Melvin has left to mourn his wife of 58 years, Gertie; children
home league secretary, community care ministries worker and in 2015, was Bernice Fox (Richard), Major Velma Preston (Captain Bill), Major Dale (Major
recognized for 50 years of service as a songster. Mildred is lovingly remembered Glenys), Kevin (Pamela) and Glen; brother, Major Warrick Pilgrim (Major Lucy);
by her husband of 58 years, Willis; children Wayne, Ruth (Bert) Keeping, Terri sisters Nina Tucker (Levi), Winnie Brenton (Wayne) and Edna (Harold) Kinsella;
Ann (Jeff) Smith; grandson, Bradley Smith; sister, Major Lily Rideout (Harold); 15 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
nieces and nephews; other family and many friends.
ROBERT’S ARM, N.L.—Bramwell George Rice was born to
HARE BAY, N.L.—Alfreda Fifield was born in 1928 as the eld- Sydney and Emma Rice in 1929 in Pilley’s Island, N.L., as one
est of nine children. In 1947, she married Randolph Fifield of of six children. Entering the workforce in his early teens as
Wesleyville, N.L., and was blessed with two children, Wayne a cook’s helper on a fishing schooner to Labrador, Bram’s
and Palima. In 1966, they moved to Corner Brook, N.L., work ethic would be his trademark. For most of his life, Bram
and returned to Hare Bay in 1969. She loved to laugh and worked as a cook in logging camps, on construction sites and
share a cup of tea with those who came for a visit. Alfreda at sea, which he loved most of all as an opportunity to meet
was a faithful member of the home league for more than people and extend hospitality. He will be remembered for his love of singing,
70 years; she was enrolled as a senior soldier of Hare Bay Corps in 1944. She sharing stories from his travel experiences, his influence and care for all, and
loved going to church and attended faithfully until health prevented her from commitment to his family, church, community and the Lord. Serving as the
doing so. Alfreda was predeceased by her husband, Randolph; son, Wayne; corps sergeant-major at Robert’s Arm Corps for almost 15 years, Bram was
parents Alpheaus and Keziah Collins; two sisters and four brothers. She will an encourager, especially to young people, and a man of integrity who loved
be remembered by her daughter, Palima (Junior) Collins; daughter-in-law, people and the Scriptures. Predeceased by his daughter, Karen, and son, Wayne,
Geraldine Fifield; grandchildren Rowena (Raymond), Rochelle (Peter), Ryan Bram is remembered by his wife of 67 years, Margaret; daughters Lt-Colonel
(Winola) and Renee; great-grandchildren Amanda, Adrienne, Heather, Courtney, Myra Pritchett (Wayne) and Lt-Colonel Sandra Rice; daughter-in-law, Gail Rice;
Brooklynn and Paisley; great-great-grandson, Bentley; brothers Pearce (Sarah) sister, Marie Maye; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; a large circle of
and Richard (Florie); sisters-in-law Charlotte, Florrie and Audrey. family and friends. Well done, good and faithful servant!

GAZETTE EDMONTON—Major Marrion Reimer Smith was born in Big
Valley, Alta., in 1922, the eldest son of Oscar and Elizabeth
Births: Lts Cory/Kelly Fifield, daughter, Olivia Faith, Jun 23; Lts Joshua/ Smith. Reimer was commissioned in 1943 in the Valiant Session
Joyce Downer, daughter Trinity Ann, born Jul 3 and ministered in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, where he met
Promoted to captain: Lts Joshua/Joyce Downer, Lt Kyla McKenzie, Lt Lillian and married in 1946. After four corps appointments
Darren Woods, Lt Jaclyn Wynne in Ontario, he became chaplain at the Fort Saskatchewan
Long service: 25 years—Mjrs Maurice/Marilyn Blackler, Mjrs Terry/Roxann Correctional Centre in 1964. Promoted to senior provincial
Feltham, Mjr June Newbury, Mjrs Scott/Michelle Rideout; 35 years—Mjr chaplain for Alberta, he was named chaplain of the year for North America.
Lorraine Abrahamse, Mjr Janice Bishop, Mjr Renée Clarke, Mjrs Stephen/ A member of the Order of Canada since 1987, he also received the Queen’s
Elaine Hibbs, Mjr Barbara Pearce, Mjr Velma Preston; 40 years—Mjr Derrick Diamond Jubilee Medal. Reimer was a beloved soldier of Edmonton Temple
Barrow, Mjr William King, Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, Mjr Roy Randell, Mjr where he was a songster and played guitar. He was a member of the Lions Club.
Lorraine Shea; 45 years—Lt-Cols Douglas/Jean Hefford, Col Lynette Rowe Reimer was predeceased by his parents; wife, Lillian; brothers Lester, Leslie and
Retirements: Mjrs Bertrand/Betty Lessard, Lt-Cols Douglas/Jean Hefford, Orvil; brothers-in-law Robbie and George; sisters-in-law Doreen, Dorine and
Mjr Katherine Dickens Mary; and niece, Rhonda. He is survived by his wife, Joy; sons Brian and Barry
Promoted to glory: Mjr Ralph Fudge, from St. John’s, N.L., Jun 24; Comr (Val); daughter, Sharon (Mel); three grandchildren; one great-granddaughter;
Elizabeth Nelson, from Winnipeg, Jun 26 stepchildren Errick, Derrick, Teri, Sarah and Julie; brothers Melvin (Winona),
Leonard (Louise), Lee (Bernice) and Dennis (Olga); sisters Viola, Lona (Harvey),
CALENDAR Loretta and Bonnie (Brent); many nieces and nephews.

Commissioner Susan McMillan: Sep 8 installation of Mjrs Everett/Vi Barrow Guidelines for Tributes
as divisional leaders, Meadowlands, Hamilton, Ont. GL Div; Sep 11-14
Association of Certified Fraud Examiners Conference Canada, Montreal; Tributes should be received within two months of the promotion to glory
Sep 15-18 cadets’ welcome weekend, CFOT; Sep 19-21 leaders’ summit, and include: community where the person resided; conversion to Christ;
Winnipeg; Sep 23 installation of Dr. Marjory Kerr as president, Booth UC; corps involvement; Christian ministry; survivors. We reserve the right to
Sep 24-26 130th anniversary, Carbonear, N.L.; Sep 28-30 NAB, Montreal; edit all submissions. High-resolution digital photos (300 ppi preferred)
Sep 30–Oct 2 Ontario women’s retreat, JPCC or clear, original photos are acceptable (original photos will be returned).
Colonels Mark and Sharon Tillsley: Sep 17-18 cadets’ welcome weekend, E-mail: [email protected].
CFOT; Sep 19-21 leaders’ summit, Winnipeg; Sep 24-25 opening of new
building, Northridge CC, Newmarket, Ont.; Sep 29-30 NAB, Montreal

28  September 2016  Salvationist

THE SALVATION ARMY Calling all aspiring writers in
Huntsville Corps
Newfoundland and Labrador
Celebrating 130 Years
Come to one of our
October 15-16, 2016
Editorial Workshops
Touch the Past—
Embrace the Future (Includes tips on writing, photography and web design)

With Majors Lloyd and Marlene George Friday, October 28
Saturday, October 15
The Salvation Army, Corner Brook Citadel
5 p.m. Anniversary Banquet 36 Clarence St.
7 p.m. “Touching the Past” Celebration Time: 6–9 p.m.

Sunday, October 16 Saturday, Photo: © Massonstock/iStock.com
10:30 a.m. “Embracing the Future” October 29

Worship Service The Salvation Army,
St. John's Citadel
4 Mary St. East, Huntsville ON P1H 1W4 25 Adams Ave.
Phone: (705) 789-3398 Time: 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Visit us on Facebook: The Salvation Army Huntsville Presenters:
E-mail: [email protected] Lt-Colonel
Jim Champ
sPEak ut
give hope! Territorial Secretary for
Communications

Geoff Moulton

Editor-in-Chief and
Literary Secretary

Cost: $10 RSVP to the Editorial Dept. at 416-422-6119
or [email protected]
Includes supper
(Corner Brook) or
lunch (St. John's)

Annual Day of prayer for To purchase your copy,
visit store.salvationarmy.ca, e-mail
vIctIms of [email protected] or
human-traffIckIng
phone 416-422-6110 today!
Sunday 25 September 2016 For the e-book, visit amazon.ca.

Salvationist  September 2016  29

SALVATION STORIES

Fight for Photo: Timothy Cheng
What’s
Right

How God restored
me so I could

advocate for others.

BY BRENDA WOOTTEN

My journey of change began on “The mission of The Salvation Army is embedded in my heart and soul,” says Brenda Wootten
November 16, 1993, the day
I was offered a position at Coming face to to come by. Children were disappearing.
the Maxwell Meighen Centre, a Salvation face with poverty, We worked with the corps officers and
Army hostel in downtown Toronto. learned about human trafficking.
corruption and
After going through a divorce, a violence, my walk One day, two little boys dressed in
health crisis and depression, I was bit- with Jesus took school uniforms came around what I
ter, hurt and angry. My heart was hard on a whole new thought was a heap of tires and a few
toward God. But as I started attending bricks—only to discover it was their
daily devotions at Maxwell Meighen, meaning. home. This was a moment in time when
I experienced his love and forgiveness God melted my heart and taught me,
through the music and teaching. God Florence Booth House, where the women through my tears, to love through him
used those 30 minutes a day to restore I was called to serve were a transforming and for him. Coming face to face with
my faith. influence on me. When I heard the life poverty, corruption and violence, my
story of the people God placed in my walk with Jesus took on a whole new
He also placed so many wonderful life—the hardships, sacrifices, how meaning. It was no longer about how
people in my life who loved me uncon- the people who were supposed to love people saw me, but how they saw Jesus
ditionally. Major Maude Hetherington and protect them as children let them through me.
took me under her wing and helped me down—God gave me the passion and
deal with some of the areas that were hin- drive to stand up and fight for what One October afternoon, I realized
dering my spiritual growth. We laughed, is right. We did workshops, spoke at there was not much more I had to offer
cried and prayed together. women’s groups and became involved Florence Booth House. I knew this part
with committees fighting for justice. of my journey was coming to a close
Working with homeless people helped and that God was preparing me for the
me learn to put my life in perspective, While I was at Florence Booth House, next chapter. Within four months, God
to be thankful. When I looked back at I went on a mission trip to Tijuana, appointed me to a new role in human
the difficult times in my life, I began to Mexico, as part of a group from terri- resources.
see all the ways God had cared for me. torial headquarters. We went to visit a
Salvation Army project supported by Today, as the director of employee
As my walk with Jesus became the women’s ministries department, a relations for Toronto Housing and
stronger, I realized this was no longer daycare in an area where many families Homeless Supports, I have the amazing
a job, but a ministry. After 10 years at worked in factories. Childcare was hard opportunity to care for the caregivers,
Maxwell Meighen, I became the assist- our employees. Every position I have
ant director at the Gateway shelter. The held over the last 23 years was a building
coaching and mentoring I received there block for this ministry.
equipped me to be an advocate for the
most vulnerable and forgotten in our The mission of The Salvation Army
society. God taught me to understand is embedded in my heart and soul.
and not judge the journey of others.
Brenda Wootten is the director of employee
Later I worked as the director at relations for The Salvation Army’s Toronto
Housing and Homeless Supports.
30  September 2016  Salvationist

NOT JUST
HIGHER
EDUCATION.
A HIGHER CALLING.

EDUCATION FOR A BETTER WORLD boothuc.ca

FulaelslintgaaLcihfieldt’simdayec!an

Helping children
achieve greatness

Visit saworldmissions.ca to find out how you can
provide basic needs to the most vulnerable children of our world.

2016 BF Posters.inddFo1r address changes or subscription information contact (416) 422-6119 or [email protected]. Allow 4-6 weeks for changes. PM 40076/1447/290416 1:11:04 PM