Salvationist_v7_n7-2012-7

Army
Hosts
Olympic
Event
Freedom Why I
Ministries Love
Gives Hope Atheists

SalvationisttoPrisoners
The Voice of the Army Salvationist.ca I July 2012

Canada Welcomes
General Linda Bond

See exclusive interview
on page 8

Salvationist I April 2012 I 1



than is required. 19mm

Inside This Issue July2012 No.75
www.salvationist.ca E-mail: [email protected]
Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXXX Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXXX
Cert no. XXX-XXX-XXXX
1 2
FeaturesCert no. XXX-XXX-XXXX 8
Departments 22 Territorial Prayer Guide
4 Editorial3 4
23 Cross 8 Holy Courage
Culture
Keeping Our Focus The Common Good An effective Army

by Major Jim Champ by Kristin Fryer requires obedience

5 Around the TerritoryCert no. XXX-XXX-XXXX 24 Celebrate CommunityCert no. XXX-XXX-XXXX to God, holy daring
and allegiance to the

11 Mission Matters Enrolments and recognition, greatest cause on earth
tributes, gazette, calendar Interview with General

Blessed People Linda Bond
28by Commissioner BriPaRnOPDeUdCdTleLABELING GUIBDaE ttlFeOCRrEyST STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL
12Be a Superhero Redemption
17 Letters by Major Danielle Strickland Stories

20 Social Justice 29 Our Covenant Freedom Ministries
offers invaluable

Put Your Money Where Your Too Busy to Love? support to inmates,

Heart Is by Rob Perry past offenders and their

by Amy Fisher 30 Talking Points families
by Kristin Fryer
22 Media Reviews Why I Love Atheists
by Major Juan Burry 15 Achieving More Than Gold at 2012 Olympics

The Salvation Army to participate in community outreach and anti-

18 human trafficking awareness

16 Aging Gracefully

As Canada and Bermuda’s oldest officer, Colonel Ernest Fitch has a
lifetime of memories to draw on
by Ken Ramstead

18 It’s All About the Kids

For at-risk Saskatchewan teens, the Meadow Lake Salvation Army
provides a needed refuge
by Pamela Richardson

21 Home Improvement

When 105 Winnipeg families received eviction notices, The
Salvation Army helped them find new homes
by Kristin Fryer

Inside Faith & Friends Blindenbach’s life was in ruins. Edge for Kids them out of Egypt
What made him see the future • F ocus on the Olympic Games
Leaping Life’s Hurdles with clarity? Edge for Kids is an exciting taking place this month in
weekly activity page published London, England
Track-and-field star Priscilla When you finish reading Faith by The Salvation Army in • E njoy puzzles, games, jokes,
Lopes-Schliep wasn’t raised to Canada and Bermuda for colouring and more!
give up, and has Olympic gold children five to 12.
to prove it & Friends in the centre of this
In this month’s issues,
Brave frıendsSummer2012 issue, pull it readers will:
FAITH & faithandfriends.ca out and give • Read about the man who Beach Safety
The new Disney-Pixar movie it to someone built his house on the sand • Never throw sand
explores the meaning of true Inspiration for Living and the man who built his DIItGtmbihmcdlhoHoeeeaaevyadtnSstieaocheuckmgbuhisnnnriaouidvekgtadmkeuhaomonestmistsdefteaetu!osdJearhs.sueventTtlamseihghfeuhnnmeueh-sedemntmbrw.arcaeayIenaaakoailadliestnkucaretdetshetlraeha,rmtrlP,ewoenhaepadmtwaiklschsaeviaaeanywmeoyngyvsbifeg@niHnseeaetcgaterkhlnashn?idttpn.endohIIgr.stssioalsskaoaaitnestnslvnevgeoduedacaepm,t,mdgtlassgmsiaooonoaebmz,idnnrfsiees.angeecH.wgr.eHatemiotaumayiossvmn.toeetdlhiinrkheifggtleieunb,manaktleaharnataynedkhtc.eiasnthtsute.hnlel 27issue
courage house on a rock • Never swim alone Your pal, Pacey Spot 7 Differences
who needs to • Learn that God will take care •y oAul’wvea ydsu fgil li nin t hheo lseasn d
Caught in the New Age Trap of them as he took care of the
Israelites when he brought • Learn to swim
Before joining The Salvation • Swim near a lifeguard
Army, Lieutenant Philip
• Don’t dive into
unfamiliar waters

• I f you are in trouble,

call or wave for help Summer Fun MazeTime to
• Fliofellgouwa rrde gduirlaetcitoionns sa nd find
hear about go swimming! CswanimymouinhgeplpooAld? am
• bN eoa cghla –s sy cooun ctoauinlde rcsu att y tohuer feet his way to the

START

Christ’s life- • A lways use sunscreen
changing
Flag-Bearer power Join Pacey’s
Olympic track-and-field +CAUGHT IN Birthday Club
hurdler Priscilla Lopes-Schliep THE NEW
wasn’t raised to give up, and AGE TRAP Edge for Kids wants to wish YOU a
has the medals to prove it Happy Birthday! Join our birthday club
and get a message from Pacey on your
 PIXAR’S BRAVE Salvation Army special day. Fill in the coupon below and FINISH
EXPLORES TRUE summer camp gives mail it to Pacey Puppy, 2 Overlea Blvd.,
COURAGE kids confidence Toronto, ON Canada M4H 1P4. Or you can
e-mail Pacey at [email protected].

Name: ����������������������������������������������������������
Corps/church attending:��������������������� Birth date: ��������������

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Mailing address: ���������������������������������������������������������
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Salvationist I July 2012 I 3

EDITORIAL

Keeping Our Focus
Women aren’t allowed to preach
in our church!” The minister woman to serve as international leader in Salvationist
visibly bristled at the thought. our 147-year history and will preside over
A chorus of head nods from others at the the International Conference of Leaders is a monthly publication of The Salvation
table reinforced his assertion. It was 1981 being held in Toronto. A public meeting Army Canada and Bermuda Territory
and the Moose Jaw, Sask., ministerial was will be held at the Living Arts Centre in Linda Bond
planning an ecumenical sunrise service. Mississauga, Ont., on Sunday, July 8, at 5 General
p.m. (see page 19 for more details). Commissioner Brian Peddle
“We have a brigade of Salvation Army Territorial Commander
cadets visiting us during Easter week Salvationist was privileged to interview Major Jim Champ
and the training officer, Captain Linda General Bond in May. She did not shy Editor-in-Chief
Bond, would be an excellent speaker,” I away from any of the questions posed Geoff Moulton
had offered. After a few minutes of tense by our features editor, John McAlister. Assistant Editor-in-Chief
discussion, another minister suggested, When asked to comment on the future of John McAlister
“Perhaps the captain could share her the Army in the face of declining church Features Editor (416-467-3185)
testimony.” attendance in the Western world, the Pamela Richardson
General didn’t mince words. News Editor, Production Co-ordinator,
And testify she did. I still remember Copy Editor (416-422-6112)
the three main points of her 14-minute “I do not believe it is our responsibility Major Max Sturge
“testimony”: Jesus came, he saw, he con- to grow the Army or to compete with other Associate Editor (416-422-6116)
quered! When she concluded, dozens churches as to attendance numbers,” she Timothy Cheng
stood to their feet to recommit their lives notes. “It is God’s responsibility to grow Art Director
to Jesus. Though it sounded suspiciously the Army, and he will. What we have to do Ada Leung
like a sermon, no one was complaining is to be the people we were called to be and Circulation Co-ordinator
anymore. Such was the power of her do what we were called to do. We must be Kristin Fryer, Ken Ramstead
words. As she has done throughout her The Salvation Army, not a pale imitation Contributors
officership, Captain Bond (now General of another church or a weak expression
and international leader of The Salvation of ourselves. Neither can we idolize the Agreement No. 40064794, ISSN 1718-5769.
Army) put the emphasis squarely where Army as though it were our salvation.” Member, The Canadian Church Press. All
it belongs: on the risen Christ. Read the interview on pages 8-10. Scripture references from the Holy Bible,

This month, the Canada and Bermuda As 127 leaders from across the Army Today’s New International Version (TNIV) ©
Territory welcomes General Bond and world gather together, the focus will be 2001, 2005 International Bible Society. Used
Salvation Army leaders from around the on the General’s vision of One Army, One by permission of International Bible Society.
world as they meet for a conference from Mission, One Message. Expectations for All rights reserved worldwide. All articles are
July 7 to 14. General Bond is the third the conference are high. “There will be copyright The Salvation Army Canada and
major papers given and group discussion Bermuda Territory and can be reprinted only
on how these relate to specific countries
and cultures,” notes General Bond. “What with written permission.
I expect to come out of the conference is
commitment to action.” Subscriptions

To stay focused, Salvationists must look Annual: Canada $30 (includes GST/HST); U.S. $36;
first to God for direction and then to each foreign $41. Available from: The Salvation
other for mutual support. Internationally, Army, 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto ON M4H 1P4.
the Army is diverse in its cultural expres- Phone: 416-425-2111, ext 2257;
sion; however, it retains a singular mis- fax: 416-422-6120; e-mail: circulation@can.
sion. As we continue to move forward and salvationarmy.org.
allow God to shape our Movement, may
we remember St. Augustine’s words: “In Advertising
essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty;
in all things, charity.” Inquire by e-mail for rates at circulation@
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MAJOR JIM CHAMP
Editor-in-Chief News, Events and Submissions

4 I July 2012 I Salvationist Editorial lead time is seven weeks prior to
an issue’s publication date. No responsibility

is assumed to publish, preserve or return
unsolicited material. Write to salvationist@

can.salvationarmy.org or Salvationist,
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Mission

The Salvation Army exists to share the love
of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a
transforming influence in the communities of
our world. Salvationist informs readers about

the mission and ministry of The Salvation
Army in Canada and Bermuda.

Salvationist.ca
[email protected]
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Twitter.com/salvationist

AROUND THE TERRITORY

$3-Million Donation
Supports Barbara Mitchell

Resource Centre

THE W. GARFIELD Weston Foundation recently gifted $3 mil- Photo: Aaron Epp/ChristianWeek
lion to The Salvation Army Barbara Mitchell Family Resource
Centres in Calgary and Winnipeg. The centres provide services Wendi Park, director, Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre in
to people affected by low education levels, social isolation, family Winnipeg, stands in front of the centre’s new building
violence, inadequate employment and low coping skills. Resource
centre staff in Winnipeg moved into a new building on March 1. Salvation Army celebrated the one-year anniversary of its Dignity
The Weston donation will cover a portion of the new facility’s Project, an initiative designed to educate the public about the
construction costs, provide more youth programming, allow the challenges facing society’s most vulnerable people. “Through the
centre to operate during evenings and weekends, and help launch work of our family foundation, we are honoured to be continu-
a new seniors’ outreach program. Wendi Park, director, says this ing our mother’s legacy of supporting organizations that care for
last program is a much-needed addition as the neighbourhood people in need in communities across Canada,” says Eliza Mitchell,
has one of the highest populations of seniors in Winnipeg. daughter of Barbara Mitchell and director of the foundation.

Each week, hundreds of clients take advantage of employ-
ment training for war-affected youth between the ages of 15 and
30, support for new and expectant parents, English-language
assistance and homework help. The goal of the centre is to help
people overcome whatever barriers they face. “We want to be
a welcome home to people who are unsettled,” Park says. “We
want to give them hope.”

The W. Garfield Weston Foundation’s donation came as The

Testimonies, Humour and Carnival Saturday, the thrift store had a sale and
Fun at Ocean Crest Anniversary offered cake and prizes to customers.

Salvationists and friends gather for anniversary celebrations At an afternoon open house at Ocean
Crest, people reminisced by viewing a
ON MAY 4-6, the Army’s Ocean Crest speakers for the weekend. Friday evening slide show of old photos. Bacon chaired
Community Church in Campbell River, featured family fun with guest entertainer Saturday evening’s music program, using
B.C., celebrated the corps’ 20th anni- Neale Bacon and his Crazy Critters and humour and magic between other par-
versary. Majors Les and Cathy Burrows, amusing bag of tricks, along with carni- ticipants’ contributions, including Cadet
who started the corps in 1992, were guest val games, hot dogs and popcorn. On Darryl Burry who is currently serving
at Comox Valley Community Church,
Courtenay, B.C. Speaking on behalf of
the City of Campbell River, Councilman
Larry Sampson praised the Army for the
work it does in the community. Longtime
church member Peter Zabinsky shared a
moving testimony about his conversion
in a service led by Major Les Burrows.
Major Cathy Burrows then preached on
the importance of remembering what God
has done and looking for ways to celebrate
the strengths of the church.

In the Sunday morning service, teen-
agers Sarah Agnew and Noah McEwen
presented a captivating skit about Jesus’
willingness to take away the trash in
people’s lives and walk with them through
life. Captain Gord Taylor, corps officer,
encouraged the congregation to trust God
in all things. In response to Major Les
Burrows’ message to keep moving on with
God, many people went forward for prayer,
seeking God’s guidance for the future.

Salvationist I July 2012 I 5

AROUND THE TERRITORY

Front, from left: Dr. Donald Burke; Justice Thomas Davis; Commissioner Brian Peddle; Colonel Floyd Tidd, chief secretary and vice-chair of the board of
trustees; Mjr Ian Swan, vice-president academic and dean, with Booth University College’s 2012 graduating class

Booth University College Graduates
Look to the Future

WINNIPEG’S BOOTH UNIVERSITY Kenemy worried he would not be admitted Commissioner Brian Peddle presents the
College’s baccalaureate Sunday morning to the bachelor of social work program Chancellor’s Medal to bachelor of arts
service in April was a time of worship, because his grades were not high enough. graduate Laura Milette
reflection and exhortation as the graduat- Given a second chance, he proved his abil-
ing students anticipated the next phase of ity by taking courses that then allowed him a high academic standing as well as dem-
their journeys. to enter the program. He graduated “with onstrated potential for leadership and an
great distinction.” Convocation speaker, understanding of the distinctive ministry
Dr. Donald Burke, president, stressed Justice Thomas Davis of Montreal, encour- and theology of the Army.
the unique role of the college in bring- aged the students to use their education
ing together a deep Christian faith, the to make the world a better place. “While the legacy of this graduating
heritage of The Salvation Army and the class will not be known for many years, the
rigours of academic study. Graduating Commissioner Peddle awarded 18 legacy of Booth as an educational institu-
students Laura Milette, Nanci-Lynne Bell certificates to students who had com- tion of The Salvation Army continues to
and Major Michael Hennessy described pleted programs in chaplaincy/spiritual grow,” says Dr. Burke.
how their studies have shaped them and care, Christian studies or management.
testified to the importance of their fac- He also conferred a bachelor of arts degree
ulty mentors and supportive family and upon 19 students and a bachelor of social
friends. Commissioner Brian Peddle, terri- work upon 24. Laura Milette received
torial commander and chancellor of Booth the Chancellor’s Medal for achieving a
University College, exhorted students to high academic standing and contributing
make their lives count and to persevere significantly to the life of the university
in the face of challenges. college and the wider community. Captain
William Stanger received the General’s
On Sunday afternoon, the celebrations Medal, which is awarded to an extended
at Knox United Church included a moving learning degree graduate who has achieved
speech by class valedictorian Kris Kenemy.

6 I July 2012 I Salvationist

AROUND THE TERRITORY

Learning to Lead Like Jesus in Maritimes

Delegates at Maritime divisional leadership weekend praise and seek God in worship In a team-building workshop led by Dr.
Roxanne Seaman of Kentville Corps, N.S., del-
egates simulate a spider’s web

ONE HUNDRED AND sixty-five officer and lay delegates, repre- relationship with Christ made real by the Holy Spirit.” Other
senting every corps in the Maritime Division, participated in an guest speakers addressed the delegates through Skype, including
engaging leadership development weekend at Oak Island Resort, Commissioner M. Christine MacMillan, then international director
Western Shore, N.S. The event provided a forum for Salvationists for social justice, IHQ, who spoke on social justice, and Major
to explore their beliefs, examine behaviours and expect God’s Julie Slous, then corps officer, Heritage Park Temple, Winnipeg,
blessings. Major Jamie Braund, then assistant principal of the who presented on worship.
Army’s College for Officer Training in Winnipeg, invited attendees
to focus on what it truly means to lead like Jesus. “Leadership The Salvation Army Red Deer Church
means following Jesus and leading others to follow Jesus in an
authentic community for the good of the world,” said Major 100th Anniversary
Braund, quoting theologian Brian McLaren.
October 12-14, 2012
Workshop sessions covered topics such as understanding the
sacraments, soul care, ministry to youth, evangelism, social justice, Special Guests:
team building, mentoring and accountability. In their workshop Commissioners Brian and Rosalie Peddle
on soul care, Majors Lynn and Brian Armstrong, directors of pas-
toral services, THQ pastoral care, defined leadership as a spiritual Musical Guests:
activity, the public acting out of one’s inner life, and noted that The Canadian Staff Band
often “our leadership derailment is not about incompetence but
is rooted in spiritual issues. Values, beliefs, spiritual formation, •
character and emotional intelligence are significant to leadership
development and integrity.” Greetings from former officers and friends can be sent to:
4837 54th Street, Red Deer AB T4N 2G5
Lt-Colonel Wayne Pritchett, divisional commander, Phone: 403-346-2251
Newfoundland and Labrador Division, reminded delegates of E-mail: [email protected]
the Army’s non-sacramental approach, emphasizing “a personal

Did you know … support the Army’s work in the Maritimes Co-ordination Committee of Guelph and
… in 2011, 202,000 volunteers donated more Wellington County? The distinction is given
… Dianna Bussey, director of the Army’s than 1.4 million hours to The Salvation Army, to employers who have demonstrated
correctional and justice services in Winnipeg helping to improve the lives of more than 1.7 leadership in providing work experience,
and chair of the human trafficking response million Canadians? training and community placement
team in the city, was one of three women ... on April 26, for the third year in a row, a opportunities for individuals facing
honoured at this year’s annual YMCA-YWCA team of Scotiabank employees took a day to employment difficulties or who require
Women of Distinction awards in the Circle of volunteer at the Army’s Parkdale thrift store workplace experience
Inspiration category for their efforts to end in Toronto? Giselle Piepp, a senior manager … The Salvation Army held its annual
human trafficking? in global risk management, organized the volunteer appreciation supper in Miramichi,
… Catriona Le May Doan, Canadian Olympic endeavour and says the volunteer work was N.B., on April 26 with 140 volunteers present?
speedskating gold medalist, was the keynote an opportunity for the employees to have a Over the previous year, approximately 250
speaker for The Salvation Army’s Hope in meaningful impact in the community where people volunteered for the Army through
the City leadership breakfast on May 24 in they work the Christmas kettles, the thrift store and
Halifax? Approximately 200 people, including … The Salvation Army thrift store in family services, as well as preparing hot
prominent business people and community Guelph, Ont., has been recognized as an meals for friendship suppers from October
and regional leaders, met for a morning of outstanding employer by the Employment to May
networking, entertainment and education to
Salvationist I July 2012 I 7

Holy Courage
General Linda Bond says that an effective Army requires obedience to God, holy daring and

G allegiance to the greatest cause on earth
eneral Linda Bond is the
international leader of The
Salvation Army. She is visit-
ing Canada this month for the
International Conference of Leaders being
held in Toronto. General Bond speaks
with John McAlister, features editor, about
the conference and the state of the Army
worldwide.

What three things do you feel
embody the spirit of Salvationism?
I believe the salvation truths described
in the colours of our Army flag make the
great statement of our understanding of
salvation. I would also add that our mis-
sion-heart—that driving force that moves
us beyond our comfort zones and our
buildings—is essential to Salvationism.
Thirdly, I would add our internationalism.

From your recent travels, please General Linda Bond interacts with two young Salvationists in the India South Eastern Territory
share a couple of inspiring stories of
the Army’s mission in action. AIDS patients. The state has no provision Because we are one Army, it is vital that
I was recently in Moldova. The Army in the for orphans so our Army hospital works periodically leaders get together to con-
Eastern Europe Territory is only 20 years very hard to secure and provide drugs to sider policy and plans that affect us inter-
old. One of the visits was to the mobile give their patients a longer health span to nationally and that have a direct impact on
clinic operated by a Salvationist couple raise their children. The doctor told me the Army in each territory and command.
who are physicians. They go into very poor that many patients feel so guilty about While the General, in visits, meets with
villages and enlist the help of specialists their disease and leaving their family. He leaders in the respective territories or com-
who are also Christians. The clinic that day felt their ministry was to introduce them mands, the information and stimulation
met in an old Soviet building, with long to Jesus, and they have so many who are gleaned through international gatherings
dark hallways. There must have been 200 then able to die in peace. cannot be underestimated. It is a marvel-
patients waiting to be seen, all with differ- lous opportunity for the sharing of ideas
ent ailments, all age groups represented. Why does the Army hold an inter- and fellowship as leaders from the differ-
Before the consultations begin, the doctor national conference of leaders? ent cultures represented meet together.
reads from the Scriptures, offers a gospel
message and prays. Then a team moves out
into the neighbourhood for home visits.
I went with them through the slippery
muddy roads to see a family of children
whose parents had died and who could
not subsist without the Army’s interven-
tion. Then we delivered a wheelchair to
an amputee. I felt like I was living in the
gospels.

Earlier this year, I was in Nagercoil,
India, visiting the Catherine Booth
Hospital. The chief medical officer
explained to me why they are giving
major emphasis to ministry to the HIV/

8 I July 2012 I Salvationist

The international conference of leaders
is usually held once during the term of
office of the General.

Why was Canada chosen for this
gathering?
It has been many years since Canada held
an international conference of leaders in
1979. Both from an Army and country
perspective, Canada offers the infrastruc-
ture and organizational skills to plan and
host such an event. The Toronto area is
so multicultural and I believe Salvationists
there will benefit from seeing the leaders
of our worldwide Army.

What are the goals and objectives for

this international conference of lead-

ers?

The agenda of the conference will be cen- The General receives a warm welcome in Mozambique

tred on the mission priorities of the One

Army, One Mission, One Message theme. financial, personnel or program, share Thursday prayer meetings. Why

There will be major papers given and group generously with those who are challenged should Salvationists participate?

discussion on how these relate to specific financially. IHQ is structured by zones. We The worldwide prayer meeting has also

countries and cultures, and how they need have the Americas, Africa, South Pacific made a profound impact on the inter-

to be carried out in concrete terms. What and East Asia, South Asia and Europe. As national Army, more than I could have

I expect to come out of the conference is well, we have functional departments for anticipated. Salvationists should partici-

commitment to action. Certain decisions administration, personnel, business and pate because I believe we need to seek

or action steps will need to be taken by program resources. The leaders of these the Lord’s direction and blessing for the

International Headquarters (IHQ). Many major departments meet with each other Army. It is perhaps the most vital means

will need to be the responsibility of the on a regular basis and are able to present of uniting us. Yes, we are internationally

territories or commands. the needs, strengths and weaknesses in organized, share the same doctrines, sym-

open discussion. Decisions then can be bols, distinctives and history, but true unity

How do you balance the various made to bring balance and aid as required. is the gift of the Spirit and we must seek

needs, cultures and strengths of the that above all else. We need the Lord and

many territories and commands? What inspired you to articulate it is important that together we seek him.

One of the most valuable assets of our the One Army, One Mission, One He knows why he raised up this Army of

international Army is the degree of co- Message vision? What do you hope his. He knows what plans he has in mind.

operation and the sense of mutual under- this vision will do for the inter- He knows where he wants us to go and

standing. It has always been the case that national Army? how he sees us ministering in the 21st

those rich in resources, whether they be I believe this expresses succinctly what the century. I don’t dismiss the strategic plans

Army has been, what that are made. Nor do I belittle the gifts

we ought to be and and skills we bring to the table. But this

do, and what God is God’s Army and we must rely on him

sees for our future for direction, power and fruitfulness. Our

effectiveness. The worldwide prayer meeting is already held

fact that it has cap- in 121 countries with thousands at prayer.

tured the imagination I believe there should be hundreds of thou-

of our Salvationists sands meeting together during the 24-hour

without me insisting period on Thursdays (visit Salvationist.

on it just affirms to ca/worldwideprayer). We have no idea

me that this was of how powerful such united intercession is.

the Lord. It is doing

what I hoped and Given the decline of church attend-

that is giving us a ance in the Western world, how can

renewed sense of the Army experience significant

our unity, our iden- growth in the future? What is the way

tity, our mission and forward for the Army?

the gospel message. I do not believe it is our responsibility to

grow the Army or to compete with other

General Bond speaks with a Moldovan villager who received a wheel- Tell us about churches as to attendance numbers. It is

chair from The Salvation Army the worldwide God’s responsibility to grow the Army,

Salvationist I July 2012 I 9

and he will. What we have to do is to be negotiables? Where can we afford to entails. Our identity and mission, in my
the people we were called to be and do be flexible? mind, are God-given and are non-nego-
what we were called to do. We must be I believe healthy discussion on our beliefs tiables. So many of our symbols, slogans,
The Salvation Army, not a pale imitation and practices will always ensure that we songs and even our structure support our
of another church or a weak expression hold to our Army distinctives if we truly understanding of salvation and how we
of ourselves. Neither can we idolize the believe these have come to us because of proclaim it in word, deed and image. We
Army as though it were our salvation. Only our faith and mission. The major non- have had lengthy discussion at the Spiritual
the Lord himself is our salvation. Nor can negotiable is our understanding of salva- Life Commission on our sacramental stand
we occupy ourselves with being its worst tion. Its Trinitarian foundation is held in and concluded that our position is soundly
critics. We must believe that God raised it common with most churches. But we also connected to our holiness doctrine. We
up and wants it to be a Spirit-filled Army, believe it is a salvation for the whole world. see the whole of life as sacramental. The
moving in unity and in mission with the Everyone can be saved. We also believe internationalism of the Army must be
powerful, transforming message of full it is a salvation for the whole person, so guarded. We cannot be a federation of
salvation. that every part of our life and lifestyle is states or autonomous churches or local
affected. We believe that the Army must humanitarian organizations. Our essential
Given the covenantal nature of minister to the whole person and therefore unity is a gift from the Lord.
Salvation Army membership, how do we do not see ourselves with a divided
we attract young people who seem mission. Wherever the Army flag flies or Flexibility in methods, uniform, pro-
hesitant to make lifelong commit- wherever the crest or shield is to be found, grams and worship styles is one of our
ments? we must see ourselves as a soul-saving, strengths. Anyone who has travelled to
At this point in time, athletes from all over saint-making Army, compelled by Christ other parts of the Army world would verify
the world are in last minute preparations to serve suffering humanity, whatever it that this is so even though the essential
for the Olympics to be held in London, Salvation Army spirit is evident.
England, in July. They have disciplined
themselves and sacrificed time and money General Bond visits an education project in Paraguay
for this one great moment in their lives.
This is not the time for The Salvation Army
to water down its covenants either by time
span or lifestyle requirements. Lifetime
commitments are being made by young
people. Other agencies and forces are call-
ing them to reach for the highest, give their
best, sacrifice their lives and find ultimate
fulfilment in giving themselves for the
greater good. How can we do less? While
we want an ever increasing Army in size
and quality, we must always remember the
story of Gideon. Numbers do not ensure
victory. What is needed is obedience to
God, holy daring and allegiance to the
greatest cause on earth.

How do we maintain our Army
distinctives while still allowing for
healthy discussions of Army beliefs
and practices? What are the non-

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10 I July 2012 I Salvationist
Contact (416) 425-2111, ext 2257; [email protected]

or visit Salvationist.ca/subscribe to order

A Blessed People MISSION MATTERS

As we enjoy the summer, let’s remain open to new opportunities to share our faith in the
opportunities to share our faith with others common reality of life.

BY COMMISSIONER BRIAN PEDDLE You may be thinking, “You want me to
be a missionary in the summer? You must
Photo: © iStockphoto.com/leaf be kidding!” But let’s look at it this way.
God chooses to be active in the world by
By the time you read this, summer from God to us—not only to you and being active in our lives. We are the ones
will have arrived, marked by warm me, but to others as well. In my devo- sent into the world. If the body of Christ is
temperatures, the enjoyment of the tions lately, I have been praying that dispersed a little more than usual because
great outdoors, school break and maybe The Salvation Army in the Canada and of the cottage, road trips and camping,
even a long-anticipated vacation. I appre- Bermuda Territory would, with renewed maybe these days can become the divinely
ciate this time of the year as it offers the energy, re-engage with its missional heart. orchestrated new opportunities in which
opportunity to enjoy longer days, barbecue I hope for a renewed engagement of God’s someone becomes part of God’s Kingdom.
gatherings and the occasional picnic in the people in his mission in the world. My Bear in mind that these are new oppor-
park with family and friends. I hope this sense is that the fields are ripe for harvest tunities with a limited shelf life, so when
summer is absolutely memorable for you. (see John 4:35-38). I suggest that this is the colder winds begin to howl, we will go
even more the case as we enjoy the warm back to our programs and lingering over
The Church joins in on this rhythm of and welcoming days of summer. the backyard fence will not be possible
life. Established programs are curtailed, until the next summer.
fewer people attend church services and Instead of taking a break this season, I
some say the effectiveness of evangelism is ask that you take the time to notice oppor- I love the vision of the gathered church.
mothballed until the big welcome back in tunities to witness. During the summer, I have images in my mind of congregations
September. Instead of taking the summer we see and talk with our neighbours more I have shared with over this past year.
off, I wonder if it isn’t time to consider often, we find a few more minutes at work Though these are beautiful and inspir-
taking the summer on. Before you dismiss to talk and catch up with our co-workers, ing memories, what intrigues me most is
this as a fruitless thought, hear me out. and our extended family members tend what I can’t see except by faith. It is what
to visit more often. Perhaps the danger happens when the benediction is spoken
I recently listened to a speaker who of taking too much down time is that the and the congregants are sent out to live
used the phrase, “the blessedness of faith.” “blessedness of faith” is taken for granted lives blessed by faith in places where the
In the thoughts that followed, there was and, worst of all, we miss divinely arranged preacher will never go.
the reminder that faith is a beautiful gift
This month marks one year since my
wife and I returned to the Canada and
Bermuda Territory to serve as territorial
leaders. During this time, our hearts have
been encouraged, challenged and inspired
by what we see as a conviction, resonating
in the hearts of Salvationists, declaring over
and over that The Salvation Army exists to
save souls, grow saints and serve suffering
humanity. Our own testimony is that we
are convinced that we are redeemed for
a reason and, therefore, committed to a
cause. By his grace we declare the gospel
of Jesus Christ and do so unashamedly. We
are a blessed people. Take time to share
your story and let God’s activity in your
life lead you to many opportunities to
share with others.

As Eugene Peterson writes in The
Message paraphrase of Galatians 6:9-10,
“So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued
doing good. At the right time we will har-
vest a good crop if we don’t give up, or
quit. Right now, therefore, every time we
get the chance, let us work for the benefit
of all, starting with the
people closest to us in the
community of faith.”

Commissioner Brian Peddle
is the territorial commander
of the Canada and
Bermuda Territory.

Salvationist I July 2012 I 11

Redemption
Stories Freedom Ministries offers

invaluable support to inmates, past
offenders and their families

BY KRISTIN FRYER, STAFF WRITER

Some politicians say it’s time to get tough on crime. Media
reports suggest that we lock criminals up and throw
away the key. But for Freedom Ministries, it’s never
too late for redemption. Based in Kingston, Ont., the
unofficial prison capital of Canada, The Salvation Army’s Freedom
Ministries offers inmates, past offenders and their families a variety
of programs that include institution and court chaplaincy, post-
incarceration aftercare and family support groups. The impact of
these programs may not make headlines, but for those who have
been supported by Freedom Ministries, they provide a path to
salvation and rehabilitation. In this article, three past offenders
share their stories.

A Cry for Help Federal parolee Mike Malcolm visits with Freedom Ministries prison
chaplain, Reverend Scott Pruden
“It sounds funny, but going to prison
was probably the best thing that ever After he was sentenced to six years for aggravated assault,
happened to me. I’m five years sober, Malcolm left Napanee and went to Millhaven Institution in Bath,
Ont., where he started attending a Salvation Army Bible study.
I’m close to the Lord and I’ve got
people like Reverend Scott Pruden in “The first time I went, I met a large Salvation Army gentleman
named Scott Pruden,” he remembers. “When I put my hand out
my life” – Mike Malcolm to shake his hand, the instant he touched me, I knew that the
Lord had sent him to help me change my life.”
AT 6’6” AND 275 lbs, Mike Malcolm admits that he’s “always
been intimidating,” and he once had the lifestyle to fit his “tough Reverend Pruden supported Malcolm throughout his incar-
guy” look. ceration and helped him secure a place at Kingston Harbour
Light, Ont., so that he could overcome his addiction to alcohol.
“I drank too much and acted like an idiot for most of my life,”
he says with frankness. Since leaving Harbour Light in January 2011, Malcolm has
been living with his parents in Denbigh, Ont., a small town about
But on August 11, 2007, everything changed. Malcolm’s 150 km north of Kingston. Because he is still on parole, and will
17-year-old daughter, Tanya, was being harassed by a 43-year-old be until November 2013, he is restricted to travel within 40 km
man who was encouraging her to do hard drugs. Feeling that of his residence. This makes it difficult for him to participate
he needed to protect his daughter, Malcolm assaulted the man. fully in Freedom Ministries’ community chaplaincy programs,
which provide support for past offenders who are returning from
Right after he committed his crime, Malcolm went to the incarceration, helping them reintegrate into society.
police station and surrendered. A few days later, he was sent
to the Napanee Detention Centre, Ont., and placed in solitary Still, he gets special passes so that he can attend the Open
confinement. Door Fellowship (ODF) at least once a month. The ODF is a
weekly Bible study that promotes healthy social behaviour, per-
“At the time, I didn’t know if my victim would survive or if I sonal responsibility and accountability. The program is directed
would be locked up for the rest of my life,” he recalls. “The first at past offenders, but regular attendees also include police offi-
night I was at Napanee, this overwhelming feeling came over cers, corrections officers, business people and a sitting Supreme
me and I asked the Lord to send me someone to help me turn Court judge.
my life around.”
“It’s an eclectic group,” says Pruden, who co-ordinates the
12 I July 2012 I Salvationist ODF, “but it’s a melting pot of faith and fellowship in Christ.

Regardless of our vocations, we are able to support and love Boudreau spent the next year going through the court system,
each other in that. ” but she received ongoing support from Salvation Army worker
Beryl Taylor. In the end, Boudreau was given 16 months proba-
Malcolm, a bluegrass musician who plays guitar, mandolin, tion and 50 hours of community service work, which she did
banjo and harmonica, often shares his talents at these meetings. with The Salvation Army.

“I know I’m supposed to share the Word, but I’m not much Boudreau continued her involvement with The Salvation
of a preacher so I do it musically,” he says. He particularly enjoys Army, becoming a soldier and later the Bread of Life program
playing classic gospel hymns, his favourite being The Old Rugged co-ordinator at Kingston’s Rideau Heights Community Church.
Cross. She is now a dedicated volunteer with Freedom Ministries.

He also shares his music ministry at a local church in Denbigh Her involvement with Freedom Ministries started 10 years
and he travels around to schools, giving his testimony. ago with a support group for women who have a loved one
that is an offender. This group, which meets weekly, provides a
“I’ll share my story with whoever I can,” he smiles. safe, non-threatening atmosphere where women can share their
experiences and receive encouragement as they struggle to cope
Love Behind Bars with the forced absence of their loved one.

“Freedom Ministries is very important “I see my sister having Christmas holidays with her husband
to women like me who are in and kids, and it makes me sad that my husband’s not there,” she
says. “Inmates tend to be insecure about their families, so the
relationships with inmates, because a women who are involved with them don’t get out much.”
lot of us don’t have support from our
In 2004, Boudreau started volunteering with the S.A.F.E. Kids’
families” – Tina Boudreau Club, a program of Freedom Ministries’ Support and Advocacy
for Family Enrichment (S.A.F.E.) program. The club offers the
TINA BOUDREAU AND her husband, Rick, have been married children of offenders—who have a high risk of social exclusion
for 25 years, but they have never lived under the same roof. For and intergenerational criminality—a place to learn, have fun
the past 29 years, Rick has been an inmate at Ontario’s Kingston and find support among their peers. The kids’ club meets once
Penitentiary, serving a life sentence after being convicted of murder. a month, usually on school holidays, for a full-day session.

The two met while Boudreau was volunteering with the “The club gives these kids the chance to do things that they
Lifers’ Group, a support group for inmates serving life sentences. might not be able to do because their fathers aren’t home,” says
Boudreau says she always had an interest in the prison system, Boudreau.
as several of her family members had worked in corrections. But
her first encounter with the Lifers’ Group took her by surprise. Like Boudreau, Rick is also involved with Freedom Ministries.
He attends Salvation Army chapel services and meets regularly
“The inmates would hold my chair out for me when I went with Reverend Pruden, the prison chaplain.
to sit down and get me coffee—things like that,” she says. “I was
totally blown away by how nice they were, compared to what Boudreau’s family did eventually accept Rick, but Boudreau
you see on TV.” says not all women in her position are so fortunate. For families
like Boudreau’s, the S.A.F.E. program of Freedom Ministries is
After a year of meeting and chatting every week at the Lifers’ invaluable.
Group, Boudreau and Rick started dating. For the next year,
Boudreau visited him as often as she could and, in 1987, they The Open Door
were married in Kingston Penitentiary. A justice of the peace
conducted the ceremony, which was attended by Rick’s mother, “I was full of hate and anger. My anger
sister and an aunt, as well as a fellow inmate who served as best gave me life. If you did me wrong, I’d
man. None of Boudreau’s family came. get you back. While I was at Harbour

“My mother was supportive, but my father didn’t speak to Light, I had to learn to forgive”
me for seven years,” Boudreau says.
– Pat Kincaid
After they were married, Rick officially adopted Boudreau’s
two children, who were two and four years old. FOR ALMOST 50 years, Pat Kincaid was a career criminal.
Constantly in and out of jail, Kincaid’s life consisted of bars, par-
Around the time she met Rick, Boudreau reconnected with ties and criminal activity—a lifestyle he admits he once enjoyed.
The Salvation Army. She had attended a Salvation Army Sunday
school when she was a teenager and, when she discovered that But after one eventful night at the Frontenac Institution in
the Army had a Sunday school bus ministry in her area, decided Kingston, Ont., Kincaid set out on a new path.
to send her children.
Kincaid first got in trouble with the law when he was only
The family had been attending Kingston Citadel for three 10 years old. Though he grew up in Kingston, he ran away to
years when Boudreau made a serious mistake and had her own Toronto when he was 13 to escape his abusive mother and lived
run-in with the law. on the streets until he found his father. Kincaid went to jail for
the first time when he was 16 and, up until three years ago, he
“My husband asked me to take some marijuana into the was never out of jail for longer than 18 months.
prison to him and I ended up getting caught,” she explains. “I
was taken to the Ontario Provincial Police jail and that’s when I Salvationist I July 2012 I 13
became a Christian, right in the jail cell.”

The Open Door Fellowship, support group and Bible study for past Light, I had to learn to forgive.”
offenders, meets every Monday night at Rideau Heights Community The most difficult person for Kincaid to forgive was his mother.
Church, Kingston, Ont.
He took anger management classes and went through counselling
Kincaid had contact with The Salvation Army at various points at Harbour Light, and before he left the centre, he phoned his
in his life, but he did not connect with Freedom Ministries until mother and told her that he had forgiven her.
he was sent to the Frontenac prison farm. There, Kincaid’s main
task was to look after the cows and he often helped with birthing “That was the most important thing I got out of Harbour
calves, a responsibility he took very seriously. In two years, he Light because that was the hardest thing for me to do,” he says.
had never lost a calf, until one night in 2009. “Now, everything else comes easier.”

“My calf wasn’t breathing. I tried everything, but nothing Home in Kingston, Kincaid regularly attends church and
worked,” he remembers. Certain that the calf had died, Kincaid the Open Door Fellowship, a support group and Bible study
was devastated until, suddenly, it started breathing. for past offenders.

“The first words out of my mouth were ‘Thank God!’ When “I love the Open Door Fellowship,” he says. “I’ve met people
I heard myself say that, I knew that there was a God and that he that I thought would never give me a second look, and yet I’m
had just given me a miracle,” he says. “From that moment on, I good friends with them. I could ask any of them for help.
tried to learn everything I could about him.”
“Freedom Ministries has changed my life,” he continues.
Kincaid turned to The Salvation Army for guidance and “After living the criminal life for 50 years, I thought there was no
stayed at Kingston Harbour Light when he finished his time at way I was ever going straight. But today, I would not trade one
Frontenac. At Harbour Light, Kincaid experienced profound minute of the last three years for any part of my life before.”
spiritual growth.
Volunteers for 27 Years
“I was full of hate and anger. My anger gave me life. If you did Brian and Anne Newell were court reporters in the criminal
me wrong, I’d get you back,” he says. “While I was at Harbour court in Kingston, Ont. That was where they first met Majors
Fred and Doreen Mills, who were The Salvation Army work-
About Freedom Ministries ers in the court at the time.
Based in Kingston, Ont., Freedom Ministries exists to support
offenders and their families throughout and after incarcera- They often talked during breaks and, one day, Brian told
tion. Led by Major Albert Bain, executive director, and Major Major Fred Mills that he played keyboard.
Barbara Bain, director of programs, Freedom Ministries
offers chaplaincy services at 10 correctional facilities and “Major Mills said, ‘How about coming into the prison?
two courts in the Kingston area, as well as escort services We need a key-
for minimum security prisoners who wish to visit the com- board player for
munity (e.g. to visit family or attend church). It also pro- our chapel servi-
vides services to past offenders who reside in the Kingston ces,’ and I said, ‘No
area, including start-up kits for recently released prisoners way,’ ” remembers
and the Open Door Fellowship, a support group and Bible Brian. “Working in
study. Freedom Ministries’ Support and Advocacy for Family the court system,
Enrichment (S.A.F.E.) program ministers to the families of we saw crimin-
offenders. Recognizing that incarceration places the entire als as rebellious
family at risk, S.A.F.E. offers support groups for women, an and dangerous.
annual family camp, a kids’ club and a “welcome home” pro- We only saw one Brian and Anne Newell
gram that helps families prepare for the return of their loved side of them.” But
one. Other Freedom Ministries programs include Circles Major Fred Mills kept asking and finally the Newells said they
of Support and Accountability for past sexual offenders, would give it a try.
pen-pal services, anger management courses and commun-
ity work programs. For more information about Freedom And so, 27 years ago, the Newells packed up their key-
Ministries, visit www.freedomministries.ca. board went to Collins Bay Institution, where The Salvation
Army chapel services were held in a small room.

“You could feel your heart go ‘pitter-pat, pitter-pat’
when you went in,” says Anne. Despite their reservations,
their first visit left a lasting impression.

“We’d never experienced anything quite like it before.
The inmates were extremely welcoming. We chatted with at
least half of them—there were about 20-25 inmates there,”
Anne remembers.

The Newells enjoyed it and kept going back. Since then,
they have served at many other institutions and, for the last
10 years, they have escorted minimum security inmates to
church every Sunday.

“Ministry is one of the most selfish things a Christian can
do because, when you give of yourself, you get fed. You can’t
out-give; the pleasure just comes back on you,” says Brian.
“Whenever we see an inmate dedicate his life to Christ, it
brings tears to our eyes.”

14 I July 2012 I Salvationist

Ach2ie0vi1n2g MOorleyTmhapn iGcosld at

The Salvation Army will participate in community outreach and
anti-human trafficking awareness

and development secretary,

14 members of the team

will work on outreach activ-

ities. Depending on the tasks

assigned to this team, they

could be serving water and

food near Games venues and

big-screen sites, leading sports

clinics and holiday clubs for

children and teens, working

with local churches and taking

part in community festivals.

The other six members

will be led by Colonel Tracey

Tidd, territorial secretary for

women’s ministries, and will

help promote awareness of

anti-human trafficking initia-

tives. This will be in part-

nership with the UN.GIFT

As athletes and fans The Olympic mountain bike course at The Salvation Army’s Hadleigh Farm displays that will be presented
around the world at over 20 locations through-
prepare for the paign, sending mission and out London.
service teams comprised of
Salvationists from the United Throughout the Games,
T h e S a l v a t i o n A r m y ’s
International Headquarters

2012 Olympics Kingdom and other territories. will feature art exhibits cre-

and Paralympics happening Given our experience with ated by residents of some Army

July 27-August 12 in London, the 2010 Olympic Games held centres. As well, since IHQ is

England, churches across the in Vancouver, The Salvation located on the marathon race

United Kingdom are mobil- Army in Canada and Bermuda route, the Army will be giving

izing for the More Than Gold will make a contribution at out water from that location

campaign of outreach, hos- these games as well. A team during the event.

pitality and service. As with of 20 Salvationists from across

previous Olympic games, The the territory will participate. M1MT2hoa5eroctsShhea2AlJv0ana1wnt3iiCovinetarAsdarermlyy
Salvation Army is participating Led by Graham Moore,
in the More Than Gold cam-
territorial public relations

Salvation Army to Host Mountain Bike Competition

The Salvation Army’s Hadleigh Farm, located in Essex, We invite former officers, soldiers, adherents or those
England, will serve as the official race venue for the Olympic associated with the corps to submit photos, stories, etc.,
Games mountain bike cycling competition. to be included in a timeline being compiled to celebrate

The mountain bike course is located on part of The
Salvation Army’s 900-acre property, which was purchased in
1890 by William Booth for use as a farm and training centre. 125 years of service in Saskatchewan.
The site continues to be used as an employment training
centre by the Army. Please forward to: [email protected].
org or [email protected]

Salvationist I July 2012 I 15

Aging Gracefully

As Canada and Bermuda Territory’s oldest officer, Colonel Ernest Fitch has a lifetime
of memories to draw on

BY KEN RAMSTEAD, EDITOR, FAITH & FRIENDS AND FOI & VIE

Photo: Mjr Gordon Armstrong him walking down the aisle—and said,
‘Do you want to be good like your dad?’ I
TCol Ernest Fitch shares vivid recollections of the First World War and the Great Depression replied, ‘Yes.’ And without a further word,
his July, Colonel Ernest Fitch will ner of 33rd and Waldin when suddenly he brought me to the altar and prayed
achieve a milestone. At the age this monster roared down the street, clang- with me.”
of 107, he will have been retired ing and whistling. Frightened, we scurried
The experience must have been import-
for 42 years, as long a time as he the remaining block to school. It was the ant for the young boy, because the next day,
he took a piece of chalk and scrawled the
was on active service. first time we’d ever seen a horse-drawn following testimony on the side of their
house: “Ernie Fitch got saved on March
“When I turned 100, I bumped into fire engine!” 17th, 1914.”

General John Gowans when he was visiting Colonel Fitch’s father was a Methodist, Wartime Loss
With the First World War raging, Colonel
Canada and I introduced myself and told and his mother, who came from England, Fitch’s father volunteered to go overseas
in 1916, leaving a pregnant wife with six
him my age. ‘Oh!’ he joked, ‘Farewell these was Anglican, “although from what I children. Transferred to the 54th Brigade,
he was killed at Amiens, France, in August
fellows who are trying to break the bank!’ gather, they weren’t working too hard at 1918, as the war neared its end.

“Imagine what he would think now!” it,” he smiles. The death devastated the family, both
emotionally and financially. Colonel Fitch’s
Testimony in Chalk But one evening, the two attended a mother had to return to work, leaving
his young sister, 11-year-old Winifred
service at the Army’s Mount Pleasant Corps (who eventually became a brigadier in
The Salvation Army), to look after the
The eldest of seven children, Colonel Fitch in Vancouver. Their souls were stirred family. After completing his last year of
public school, the 14-year-old worked
was born in Vancouver. enough to answer an altar call that very various jobs, as a paper-boy, delivery man
and office boy.
“I used to joke that every time the doc- evening, and they became adherents.
Colonel Fitch subsequently worked at
tor came to visit us with his black bag, he Colonel Fitch’s father was eventually com- the Royal Bank of Canada for 7½ years,
first as a teller and then as a bookkeeper.
left a baby,” he recalls. missioned as a local officer, becoming a By his 20s, the young man was quite happy
being a Salvationist and working at the
Colonel Fitch’s mother was a house- colour sergeant. bank.

maid for one of the wealthier families in When the colonel was nine, a church But in 1925, he and his future wife,
Gladys, attended a Salvation Army service.
the city until she married, while his father service at the South Vancouver Corps pro- That night, one of the officers sang, “By
the peaceful shores of Galilee, mending
was a stable boss for a local dairy. foundly changed his life. their nets by the silvery sea, the fishermen
toiled at their tasks each day.”
His most vivid recollection from a “My dad and I were sitting together
“I was all right until he got to the third
century ago dates from his school days. when it came time for the altar call,” he verse: ‘As the fishermen heard by Galilee:
Leave now your nets and follow me,’ ”
“I used to walk to class with a pretty remembers. “The corps officer left the plat- says Colonel Fitch. “That knocked me for
a loop. I couldn’t get it out of my head.
little six-year-old girl. We were at the cor- form, came directly to me—I can still see
“By Tuesday, I was miserable as sin,”
he continues. “I just couldn’t hold out
anymore, so I went to the altar, and when

16 I July 2012 I Salvationist

I opened my eyes and looked around, Col Fitch in 1967 travelling as they could, up and down the
my future wife was kneeling right beside West Coast.
me! It turns out she had wanted to be an retired, we had a party for him,” says
officer, too, and had been waiting for me Colonel Fitch, “and when it came time Eventually, their children arranged for
to make up my mind.” to shake hands with him, he poked me them to live at an Army retirement facility,
in the stomach and said, ‘Well, Fitch, you where they stayed until Gladys’ promotion
A Full Life did better than we expected.’ So I guess I to Glory in 1996.
The young couple attended training college turned out all right!”
and were married in 1928. Appointments “I’ve always been so grateful she had
across the territory followed. After his retirement, Colonel Fitch her last days there,” says Colonel Fitch,
continued to work part-time as a book- “because there was a lot of fellowship and
“I still think of the officers who served keeper until he turned 80, and then finally activities for her, even during her declin-
through the Great Depression,” Colonel walked away from active duty. For the next ing years.”
Fitch says. “One of the officers at Estevan, several years, he and Gladys did as much
Sask., used to say that she would give the Colonel Fitch, then 92, was able to
children their lunch and then go upstairs live independently until an attack of shin-
and pray because there was no lunch left gles laid him low, and he then entered
for her. There was a camaraderie there. Evergreen Care Centre, a seniors’ residence
We were all in the same boat, but no one in North Vancouver.
ever thought of resigning.”
“I went through a very bad time then,”
Further postings followed after the he says. “I call it, ‘my soul’s darkest hour.’
Second World War, but his wife’s failing There were two or three weeks that I can’t
eyesight necessitated him taking a job recall. I had horrible dreams of being lost
in the finance department at territorial and alone, not knowing how to get home.”
headquarters.
With the help of his children and his
“So what did they do with me? Made corps officer, the colonel recovered and his
me a teller again,” he laughs. faith was strengthened as a result.

Colonel Fitch officially retired on July “I’ve worked it out with the Lord,”
1, 1970. he says. “I’m living for the day when the
trumpet blows and they say, ‘Come on,
“When Commissioner Wycliffe Booth Fitch, you’ve been around too long.’ I’m
in no hurry, mind you!”

12TH ANNUAL SALVATION ARMY

GOLF CLASSIC

SAVE THE DATE

Friday September 14, 2012

Angus Glen Golf Club, South Course
For more information call

Lisa Marinis at (416) 321-2654 x210

Salvationist Qtr STD.indd 1 Salvationist I July 2012 I 17

5/1/2012 12:17:58 AM

“We have an amazing group of kids,” says Mjr Peter Eason, shown with members of Meadow Lake’s youth group at the 30-Hour Famine event. Front,
from left, Angelina Eason, Nora Bowerman, Brandon McCallum. Back, from left, Julie Bowerman, Nykela Penner, Kendra Opikokew, Kaither Sutherland,
Josh Millar, Mjr Eason, Glen Gedison

It’s All About the

Kids
For at-risk Saskatchewan teens, the Meadow Lake Salvation
Army provides a needed refuge

It’s 3 a.m. on a spring night and the lights BY PAMELA RICHARDSON, NEWS EDITOR corps officer, who supervised the all-night
are on at the Salvation Army corps in event. “We have an amazing group of kids.”
Meadow Lake, Sask. Someone should forces with others around the world to par-
probably notify the corps officers, but ticipate in World Vision’s 30-Hour Famine. Where There’s a Need
it’s OK, they already know. Youth ministry As the world’s largest youth fundraiser, Actively engaged in serving the people of
here can be a 24-hour job! the event is designed to raise money to Meadow Lake, The Salvation Army offers
Like many youth groups across the help save lives around the globe. Kaither an extensive list of ministries, including an
territory, the young people of Meadow Sutherland, 16, and Josh Millar, 15, col- after-school drop-in, Bible classes, street
Lake watch movies, go bowling, play floor lected almost half of the total $3,100 outreach, pro-bono legal services, a thrift
hockey, air hockey and fooseball, hang out raised by the teens from Meadow Lake. store and RCMP chaplaincy.
with friends and share a commitment to
social justice issues. In April, they joined “They spent three weeks pounding the “The needs are great in our commun-
payment in this little city in the north to ity,” explains Major Eason, “and our desire
raise money for kids around the world
who are starving,” says Major Peter Eason,

18 I July 2012 I Salvationist

to meet those needs is very strong.” “They are dealing with serious challen- your feet.” After feeling down and out for
Shortly after their arrival in 2007, the ges.” Abuse, poverty, hunger, suicide, gang months, her connection to the youth group
activity, addictions to gambling, alcohol is bringing things back into perspective.
Easons identified a group that was not and drugs, and a widening gap between “God is helping me get back on track.”
being reached by the Army’s services, in rich and poor are part of their daily lives.
spite of the programs already in place. “There are systemic issues that are being For Major Eason, ministering to the
“We realized there was a tremendous need fought,” says Major Eason, “including young people of Meadow Lake is about
for work among young people, so we’ve racism.” more than the organization of a floor
committed to it,” he says. hockey game or a trip to the local bowl-
Located adjacent to the Flying Dust ing alley. It’s about instilling in them the
That realization led to activities geared First Nation reserve, Meadow Lake’s popu- importance of prayer and what it means
specifically to the younger generation, such lation of 5,000 is approximately 50 percent to have a personal relationship with Jesus
as Kidz Own, a weekly after-school drop-in Aborginal. “There is good support for the Christ. It’s about standing with them as
program for children. “We have a support- Army’s work with the Aboriginal com- they face the consequences of breaking the
ive group of people here at the corps,” says munity,” he continues, “and we have an law. It’s about sitting beside them in the
Major Eason, “including Denise Dodds excellent relationship with our First Nation hospital as they struggle to survive a failed
and Pat Gedison, who give leadership to brothers and sisters. There have been suicide attempt. And it’s about opening his
Kidz Own.” improvements in relationships between heart to them when they have no one to
peoples of different backgrounds, nations turn to and nowhere else to go.
With the children’s programming under and cultures, but there is still a lot of work
control, Major Eason focused his attention to do.” “Due to abuse and some legal charges,
on reaching out to local teens by introdu- my family got split,” shares 15-year-old
cing a youth group and participating in a “A Blessed Place” Kendra Opikokew. “Major Peter helped
floor-hockey program for at-risk youth. So what draws these young people to The us and we all got reconnected through
Open to all teens in the community—from Salvation Army week after week? the church. The Salvation Army brought
those struggling through the effects of my family back together.”
fetal alcohol syndrome to ones in trouble “I come here asking for healing, for
with the law, from young people living help, and it’s received,” shares 17-year-old Major Eason is quick to redirect the
with mental health issues to those who Brandon McCallum. “This is a blessed praise. “We’re here to focus on Jesus and
regularly attend the Army as their place of place.” to help the kids know him better,” he says.
worship—the programs are proving to be “I keep reminding them that while I can’t
much-needed resources in the community. Nykela Penner, 17, agrees. “No matter be with them in every moment of crisis,
how low you are feeling,” she says, “The the Lord is always there. He’s got plans
“Family life is very difficult for a lot Salvation Army is here to get you up on and purposes for their lives.”
of these kids,” explains Major Eason.

Public Welcome of Delegates to the
2012 International Conference of Leaders

Sunday July 8, 2012, 5:00pm | Mississauga Living Arts Centre

Conducted by Supported by

General Linda Bond Commissioner Barry C. Swanson,

THE CHIEF OF THE STAFF

Commissioner Sue Swanson,

WORLD PRESIDENT OF WOMEN’S MINISTRIES

Featuring TNJAhoaueitgniCo1u7ans-naaSalteTEdopxiarthon3inb, t2iot0io12n
Volunteer at
Canadian Staff Band The Salvation Army
Korean Corps Songsters Refreshment Centre
OCE Divisional Youth Chorus
For more info or to volunteer,
Mississauga Living Arts Centre
4141 Living Arts Drive, Mississauga ON L5B 4B8 please contact Lisa Marinis at
www.salvationarmy.ca/ontariocentraleast/icl2012
[email protected]

416-321-2654 ext 210

ILC print material.indd 5 3/12/2012CN2:E13S:a1l9vaPtMionist qtr page.indd 1 Salvationist I July 2012 I 19

5/22/2012 12:51:58 PM

SOCIAL JUSTICE

Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is
Does our free market economy enslave and exploit the vulnerable?

BY AMY FISHER

Have you ever thought of free market global capitalism God’s creatures? And even our fellow human beings? Are you
as an institution in need of redemption? Have you ever comfortable being called a consumer by companies competing
thought of the way it oppresses and extorts some people to get your business?

as much as it might benefit others? Have you ever thought of how In many ways, free market capitalism has fueled this destruc-

it robs people of their freedom and imagination? Have you ever tive force called consumption, has made slaves of our brothers

wondered if God’s Word might have something to say about it? and sisters. These brothers and sisters live both here in North

Christians have a responsibility to educate themselves and America—in the halls of commerce, on streetscapes lined with

make choices in the marketplace that have positive consequences advertisements—and in places we can’t so easily see, such as

for our global neighbours. If the 80/20 rule is a reality—that is, if sweatshops in South East Asia or on cash-crop farms in Central

20 percent of the earth’s population controls 80 percent and South America.

of the wealth—then we in Canada are certainly part of Does God intend to redeem this human institution? To make it

that 20 percent. If Jesus really meant that we should care new, whole or good again? Can Christians be God’s agents of

for “the least of these,” giving the poor and marginalized change in the marketplace? It’s time to put our money

food, water and clothing when they are in need, then he is where our heart is.

talking about our duty to the other 80 percent of the world’s

population. For more information on Fair Trade, visit

SalvationArmyEthics.org issues/fair-trade.

Christians have a responsibility Fair Trade FAQs
to educate themselves and make

choices in the marketplace that
have positive consequences for our

global neighbours

These days it’s hard to deny that our economic What is Fair Trade?
system is broken and in need of redemption. In One way that Christians can make an
2008, the Western penchant for things we can’t impact is by choosing fair trade products,
afford caught up with the market, amounting such as coffee, tea and chocolate. Fair
to more debt than could be repaid and loans trade creates opportunities for producers
that could no longer be insured against default. in economically disadvantaged coun-
The American economy reeled. Banks closed. tries who have been marginalized by the
Around the world, governments scrambled to conventional trading system. For items
pick up the pieces. to be fair trade they must meet certain
standards that help alleviate poverty,
It’s not hard to look at this economic crisis ensure safe working conditions and foster
and see a spiritual crisis as well. Greed, pride, sustainable development.
the desire to be better, more powerful or How do I know if a product is Fair
wealthier than someone else … these are
the things that power our economy. They Trade Certified?
motivate us to buy more stuff at a cheaper The Fair Trade Certified Mark
price. In a word, to consume. is a registered trademark of
Fairtrade International.
The word “consume” has a decidedly Various marks have been
negative connotation. It means to eat used worldwide, but the
up, use up, destroy or ruin. If you and two logos above are the most
I are “consumers,” what is it that we are
destroying? Do we consume only inanimate objects commonly used in Canada.
with our spending, or do we also destroy God’s living earth?

20 I July 2012 I Salvationist

Home Improvement

When 105 Winnipeg families received eviction notices, The Salvation
Army helped them find new homes

BY KRISTIN FRYER, STAFF WRITER

LMjr Julie Slous speaks with former Greenway residents Angela Harden and Julie Villeneuve To assist these families, Heritage Park
ast fall, 105 Winnipeg families right people so that something could be Temple set up a house-hunting service and
received shocking news. They done,” says Harden. “She also told me helped people negotiate new leases. The
were being evicted from their to stay positive and that God would not corps also facilitated a meeting between
the Greenway families and the Residential
apartment complex in the Heritage lead us astray.” Tenancies Branch in Winnipeg so that the
people could learn about their rights as
Park neighbourhood. In just five months, Major Slous brought the situation to tenants.

they would no longer be able to call the attention of the local Neighbourhood From October 2011 to March 2012,
corps members followed up with families
Greenway West home. Resource Network (NRN), an associa- weekly to ensure that their housing plans
were progressing. By mid-March, every
For some Greenway residents, finding tion of social services agencies in the St. family had found new accommodation,
including Harden, who says her new home
new accommodation would not be easy. James-Assiniboia district in Winnipeg is a great improvement over Greenway:
“It’s big, it’s in a safe neighbourhood and
“Many of these families were on income that meets once a month to discuss issues the kids like it.

assistance and had few resources to seek affecting the community. In early October “The Salvation Army was very support-
ive,” she adds. “If it wasn’t for them, I don’t
alternative housing,” explains Major Julie 2011, a special task force was formed to know where my family would be now.”

Slous, then corps officer at Heritage Park address the Greenway housing crisis, and According to Major Slous, this level of
success was made possible by the task-
Temple. “They were completely over- the weekly meetings were held at The force model adopted by the NRN. The task
force brought together decision-makers
whelmed.” Salvation Army. from various agencies, who could then
combine their resources and use their
The Salvation Army and Heritage Park At this point, it was crucial for the task power to take immediate action. Local
MLA Sharon Blady, a member of the NRN,
Temple got involved almost immediately force to have front-line workers on the says that the Manitoba government sees
the Greenway task force as a model for
after the eviction notices were served. ground, talking to the Greenway residents. future crisis situations.

“For the last four years, the corps has The Salvation Army was a key presence in On March 25, The Salvation Army
held a recognition event at Heritage Park
been building pastoral relationships with the neighbourhood, collecting information Temple to honour the success of the task
force. Major Slous says the purpose of the
lower-income communities in the area,” and bringing it back to the task force. event was, first and foremost, to give glory
to God for what had been accomplished,
says Major Slous. “When these families “We spent a lot of time knocking on as well as celebrate the partnerships that
had been strengthened through the situa-
were in crisis, they came to us because doors and finding out where people were tion and give residents a chance to tell
their stories.
they knew that we would do what we at in their transitioning,” says Major Slous.
Blady, who also spoke at the event,
could to help them.” After meeting with almost all of the commends The Salvation Army for their
role in resolving the Greenway crisis.
Former Greenway resident Angela Greenway families, The Salvation Army
“I’m so thankful for the work that’s
Harden says she felt comfortable approach- identified 35 families that required more being done in the community by The
Salvation Army,” says Blady. “It’s wonderful
ing Heritage Park Temple for assistance intensive assistance. These families had to see people working for their community,
not just out of the goodness of their hearts,
because her four children had been nowhere to go, but they also didn’t have but out of a drive to make the world a bet-
ter place. It’s a living example of faith.”
involved with the corps’ kids’ club and the means or the capacity to negotiate
Salvationist I July 2012 I 21
she attended services occasionally. with new landlords. In addition, many

“When I told Major Slous about the of them were dealing with mental health

situation, she said she would talk to the issues and unemployment.

Territorial Prayer Guide MEDIA REVIEWS

WEEK 1 - JULY 1-7 40 Questions About
Canada the End Times
• E very effort to be made to reach all
Eckhard Schnabel
ethnic groups with the gospel
• God to reveal himself to people I REVIEW BY MAJOR MAX STURGE
nterpreting end-times biblical passages can be tricky.
taking rest during the summer Scholarly debate over apocalyptic imagery has led The
• G od’s protection for summer Salvation Army over the years to avoid a definitive stance
on this controversial subject. The most recent Handbook
travellers of Doctrine (2010) has expanded coverage of “last things”
• P olitical leaders to make wise to 23 pages, but avoids speculative details.

decisions to benefit society Salvationists who want to understand this subject in
more depth will appreciate Eckhard Schnabel’s balanced
WEEK 2 - JULY 8-14 interpretation in 40 Questions About the End Times. His
Children and Youth chapter titles ask common questions, such as: What are
• Y oung people at summer camps to the Signs of the End? Who are the 144,000 in Revelation?
Does the Modern State of Israel Represent Fulfilment of
experience God’s love and salvation Biblical Prophecy? Who is the Antichrist? What is the
• P arents to disciple their children Battle of Armageddon?
• I nsight in developing programs for
Designed for both students and general readers, the
children and youth book frowns on sensationalism and a “newspaper headline” approach that interprets
• C reativity and effectiveness for prophecy according to current events. Instead, Schnabel argues that we must read the
Bible to understand it, not merely to confirm and defend our preconceived interpreta-
those ministering to children and tions. He examines the biblical text in light of its first-century historical and cultural
youth context, then applies it to our contemporary situation, showing how the original mes-
sage of those texts should shape Christian thinking and practice today.
WEEK 3 - JULY 15-21
Quebec Division This common-sense guide to eschatology will enlighten open-minded Bible students
• God to strengthen the faith of our and be a gentle corrective to those whose end-times zeal has led to overly dogmatic
conclusions. Though the exact nature of the end times remains a mystery, Schnabel
young people provides invaluable insights to better understand this important dimension of Christian
• Our camping programs to grow and theology and of the whole of Scripture.

reach people for Jesus Choose Joy
• Perseverance and patience for
Because happiness isn’t enough
staff in residential centres with Kay Warren
challenging clientele When all our fondest hopes and wildest dreams come true, and
• I ncreased support from the Quebec our hearts nearly explode with happiness, it’s easy to feel joyful.
business community to help sustain But what about the valleys? When nothing seems to go our way?
our ministry When everything is falling apart? When God is silent and we feel
alone? Where does joy fit into these moments? In Choose Joy, Kay
WEEK 4 - JULY 22-28 Warren shares the path to soul-satisfying joy regardless of one’s
Partners in Mission – Malawi Territory circumstances.
• Leadership teams at all levels to
The Most Misused Verses in the Bible
have wisdom, endurance and
insight for ministry Surprising ways God’s Word is misunderstood
• Community development Eric J. Bargerhuff
programs, including agriculture, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they
health, child advocacy and small are old they will not turn from it” (Proverbs 22:6). “You may ask
business enterprise me for anything in my name, and I will do it” (John 14:14). Pastor
• U nity among Christian Eric Bargerhuff shows how these and a surprising number of other
denominations, the largest religious well-known Bible passages are commonly misunderstood. Even
grouping in the nation well-intentioned Christians take important verses out of context. The
• Economic improvement so people result? Confusion, poor decisions and a distorted view of the Bible.
can live above the poverty line Bargerhuff provides fascinating historical and scriptural insights to help us understand,
in context, God’s promises and instructions, and to appreciate the Bible’s eternal message.
WEEK 5 - JULY 29-31
Global Call to Prayer
• Personal and corporate spiritual

renewal
• C ontinued commitment to fight

against worldwide injustices

22 I July 2012 I Salvationist

The Common Good CROSS CULTURE

Social news websites make collective kindness they encourage user participation. Users
possible—and relatively easy know that they can play a significant role
in shaping what gains popularity on the
BY KRISTIN FRYER, STAFF WRITER Internet. And they know that if a worthy
cause comes along, they have a large com-
Photo: © iStockphoto.com/alexsl munity that they can appeal to for help.
Reddit is not the only social news website
Seven-year-old Kathleen Edward of for being a community of “do-gooders.” out there—Digg and Slashdot are also
Trenton, Mich., U.S.A., was dying Their campaign for Kathleen is just one of popular—but it is the biggest, attracting
of Huntington’s disease, a degen- hundreds of good deeds, large and small, more than two billion page views a month.
erative brain disorder that also killed her that the community has done since Reddit
mother. But to make an already difficult was founded in 2005. Social news websites differ from social
situation worse, she and her family were networks, such as Facebook, in that users
being taunted by a couple of neighbours For those who are unfamiliar with do not create a personal profile where they
who had a feud with them. Among other Reddit, this may come as a surprise. There share photos and interests, nor do they
things, these neighbours posted grim are many corners of the Internet that do have a “wall” that others can write on.
photos of Kathleen on Facebook, includ- not have a reputation for positive actions. But Digg users, for example, can “follow”
ing one that showed her face as part of a But social news websites like Reddit prove other users, similar to Twitter, and Reddit
“skull and crossbones.” that the Internet is at least as often a force users can have “friends.”
for good as for ill. Though these sites were
In October 2010, Kathleen’s story was not made specifically to facilitate activism, Crowdsourcing for Christ
picked up by a local news outlet and a link their design makes collective kindness The acts of kindness performed by Reddit
to the story was posted on Reddit, a social possible—and relatively easy. users are a kind of “crowdsourcing,” a
news website. The reaction among the process that involves outsourcing a task
Reddit community was swift and strong, What are Social News Websites? to a distributed group of people. Because
as their collective outrage turned into col- Social news websites provide a unique social news websites are an Internet-based
lective action. After the news story was forum to share and discuss information on phenomenon, users from around the world
posted, a Reddit member (or “redditor”) the Internet. The content of these websites is are able to access the same information
named Hans Masing suggested that they entirely determined by users who post stor- and become part of a “crowd” supporting
start a collection to give Kathleen a toy ies and comment on stories that are posted a particular cause. For example, donations
shopping spree. Any money that was not by others. Stories can be “up-voted” or to Kathleen Edward’s toy fund came from
used by Kathleen would be donated to “down-voted” by users, meaning that all of as far away as India.
the local children’s hospital. the stories on the site are “ranked” according
to popularity. Because of this, social news While most of the crowdsourcing pro-
Donations from redditors and toy com- websites have effectively “democratized” the jects that show up on social news websites
panies poured in and, by the end of the news: a story is important if the community do not have the backing of any particular
campaign, approximately $19,500 had decides that it is, and not just because the group, many Christians do participate.
been raised. mainstream media thinks so. For example, the Christian group (or
“subreddit”) on Reddit holds an annual
Random acts of collective kindness Social news websites thrive because Christmas fundraising campaign.
like this have given Reddit a reputation
Social news websites can be a power-
ful platform for anyone who is looking to
effect change, mainly because the potential
audience is so large. A link (e.g. to an
article about human trafficking) posted
on Facebook only reaches a user’s friends,
while a link posted on Reddit or Digg
may reach thousands. Christians can use
these websites to spread awareness of an
issue, raise money for a particular cause
and find out about new issues and causes.
The Christian group on Reddit (www.
reddit.com/r/Christianity) also provides
a forum for discussion of general issues.
For example, one recent topic was: What
does it mean that “God created man in his
own image”?

Social news websites have a lot to offer,
but it is important to keep in mind that
they are usually lightly moderated—mean-
ing that there is little censorship, other
than that provided by users who can
down-vote offensive content—so viewer
discretion is advised.

Salvationist I July 2012 I 23

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY

ENROLMENTS AND RECOGNITION

CALGARY—Glenmore Temple celebrates the addition of six soldiers from left, Jeff Skipper, recruiting sergeant; John (Ui Hwan) Yang; Brenda
and six adherent members to its rolls. Front, from left, Mjr Genevera Sinclair; Delaney Atkinson; Cecil Dean, colour sergeant; Fred Frewin;
Vincent, then CO; Min Hee Yang; Darcy McKenzie; Leah Kazmerik; Glen Adam Waldolf; Vern Atkinson.
Lee; Lotte Waldolf; Cindy Atkinson; Mjr Eddie Vincent, then CO. Back, ROBERT’S ARM, N.L.—
GAMBO, N.L.—The corps in Gambo celebrates three new soldiers. From During the corps’
left, Cpts David and Melanie Rideout, COs; Keith Bennett; Clarence Ward; 65th anniversary cele-
Lorraine Duffett (reinstated); Evelyn Peckford, holding the flag; CSM brations at Robert’s
Marvin Wells. Arm, Margaret Rice
received a pin and
certificate recog-
nizing 30 years of
faithful service as
corps treasurer. Her
daughter and son-
in-law, Lt-Cols Myra
and Wayne Pritchett, DDWM and DC, N.L. Div, made the presentation.
With them is Mjr Brian Thomas, CO.

KAMLOOPS, B.C.—Mjrs Wayne and Sharleen McTaggart, COs, are pleased OTTAWA—Barrhaven Church adds new soldiers to its ranks. From left,
to enrol Emily Kerr and Lexi Char as junior soldiers, and Ron Saunders and Matthew Timmermans, colour sergeant; Cpt Chris Rideout, CO; Andre
Forrest Stockstead as senior soldiers. Supporting them are John Noakes, Bissonete; Stephanie Collins; Sharon Rideout; Cpt Tina Rideout, CO; CSM
holding the flag; Eleanor Hawkes, pastoral care officer; Wendy Escamilla, Joan Humphreys.
youth ministries director. OTTAWA—Growth at Barrhaven Church results in four local officers being
commissioned. From left, Cpt Chris Rideout, CO; CSM Joan Humphreys;
DILDO, N.L.—Irene Sharon Dean, community care ministries secretary; Gerry Merkel, songster
Williams is commis- leader; Bram Dean, bandmaster; Jennifer Chappell, cradle roll sergeant;
sioned as assistant Cpt Tina Rideout, CO; Matthew Timmermans, colour sergeant.
community care min-
istries secretary at Trinity
Bay South. Supporting
her are CCMS Nancy
Cranford and Cpts
Claudette and Chris
Pilgrim, COs.
24 I July 2012 I Salvationist

TORONTO—Yorkwoods CC rejoices in the enrolment of six soldiers. From CELEBRATE COMMUNITY
left, Aux-Cpt Alain Luasu, CO; Mariama Jalloh; Anisa Biar; Heather Ortiz,
Olufemi Shodunke; Adelheid Kauapirura; Charmaine Kakujaha; Lt-Col SYDNEY, N.S.—
Raphael Mason, then territorial multicultural ministries secretary. Linda Simpson is
Sydney CC’s new-
est senior soldier.
From left, Mjrs
Daniel and Glenda
Roode, then COs;
Linda Simpson;
Cpts Phyllis and
Felipe Vega, then
associate COs.

ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Generous partners donated a new vehicle to The CONCEPTION BAY SOUTH, N.L.—Conception Bay South Corps recently
Salvation Army for its community and family services. From left, Lisa honoured the work of their community care ministries team with a special
Anstey, CFS worker; Miriam MacLeod, St. John’s East Rotary Club; Carmen dinner. Guests for the weekend were Mjrs Wayne and Betty Ann Pike, COs,
Carroll, St. John’s Northwest Rotary Club; Glenn Barnes, Rotary Club of Deer Lake, N.L., and soloist Carol Ann Reid from Trinity Bay South, N.L.
St. John’s; Bill Healey and Craig Walker, REMAX; Ron Ellsworth, Ellsworth As part of the weekend events, eight new members were enrolled. From
Group of Companies; Felix Loveless, Calco Homes; Lt-Col Wayne Pritchett, left, Ella Mae Taylor; Mjr Lorne Pritchett, CO; Alice Lambert; Evangeline
DC, N.L. Div; Mjr Wade Budgell, DSPRD, N.L. Div. Wiseman; Lorraine Martin; Yvonne Thompson; Patricia Tiller; Joyce
Canning; Pam Wooley; Jerry Mercer, holding the flag; Zita Butler, who was
re-commissioned as CCM secretary. Twenty-five CCM members regularly
visit 24 nursing homes and conduct worship services at two retirement
centres each month. At Christmas, they packed and delivered 660 sunshine
bags and took fruit baskets to private homes. For eight years they have
been providing breakfast twice weekly to a local school. Members also
assist with the Christmas kettle campaign and provide refreshments for
bereaved families following funeral services at the corps.

GANDER, N.L.—The corps in Gander commissioned two local officers WINGHAM, ONT.—Three soldiers were enrolled as part of the 125th
during 66th anniversary celebrations, bringing the total of new local anniversary celebrations. From left, Lt-Cols Lee and Deborah Graves,
officers to five in the past year. From left, Cpt Cory Pinksen, CO; Envoy DC and DDWM, Ont. GL Div; Mjr Archie Simmonds, CO; Andrew Byers;
Gertrude Hayward, community care ministries secretary; Wayne Pollett, Danielle and Mike Ryan; Mjr Marie Simmonds, CO; Cpt Edna Rowe, sol-
quartermaster; Randy Lane, corps sergeant-major; Cherie Green, assistant dier preparation teacher. Festivities also included a banquet and music
corps sergeant-major; Mary Bungay, junior soldier sergeant; Cpt Pamela concert featuring Suncoast Citadel Band from Goderich, Ont., and the
Pinksen, CO. Mudde Family from Barrie, Ont.

LETHBRIDGE, ALTA.—The Salvation Army CC of Lethbridge celebrates Be involved in the Army’s present
the enrolment of Katri Dean, Crystal Schmidt, Lilly George and Ryan Be part of the Army’s future
Kung. Supporting them are Mjrs Edith and Brian Beveridge, COs; and
Mat Guthmiller, holding the flag. Salvationist.caFor the latest news online, visit us at

Salvationist I July 2012 I 25

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY Conception Bay South Continues to Grow
Officer Retirements
CONCEPTION BAY SOUTH, N.L.—Lt-Cols Wayne and Myra Pritchett, DC
Majors Eric and Donna Bond were commissioned in the Messengers of and DDWM, N.L. Div, led 104th anniversary celebrations at Conception
Peace Session (1985-1987). For the next 14 years, they enjoyed various corps Bay South. Festivities included a musical program featuring local talent,
appointments across Canada. Their first appointment took them to Port followed by the cutting of the anniversary cake and fellowship. “Sunday
services brought blessing from God’s Word,” says Mjr Winston Dodge, corps
Alberni, B.C., which was member. “Many
followed by ministry at knelt at the mercy
North Vancouver, Halifax seat for prayer and
Citadel and Toronto’s rededication.”
Agincourt Community Front, from left,
Church. They found ful- Noah Denny and
filment in appointments Shayla Barrett, jun-
at three divisional head- ior soldiers. Back,
quarters, first in the then from left, Lt-Cols
Ontario East Division, with Wayne and Myra
Eric serving as divisional Pritchett; retired
secretary for program and CSM Harold Perrin;
Donna as divisional com- Mjrs Barbara and
munity care ministries secretary and divisional retired officers secretary, Lorne Pritchett,
then as divisional leaders in the then Ontario North Division and the then COs.
Prairie and Northern Territories Division. Eric and Donna concluded their
active service by witnessing and participating in the training and com- Rescued Chilean Miner Testifies in Prince Albert
missioning of new officers at the College for Officer Training in Winnipeg,
where he was principal and she was director of spiritual formation. PRINCE ALBERT, SASK.—Members of Prince Albert CC were thrilled to
Retiring in Oshawa, Ont., they praise God for a wonderful journey of faith attend a mayor’s breakfast to hear guest speaker Jose Enriquez, one of
and are grateful for the many opportunities to minister across Canada the miners who spent 69 days trapped in a mine in Chile. He told the story
as Salvation Army officers. of God’s saving grace while 33 men were trapped 800 metres below the
Majors Larry and Phyllis Fudge earth’s surface. Enriquez, who is an evangelistic pastor as well as a miner,
retired after 25 years of ser- said the men asked him to be their leader. He told them: “I will be your
vice. Commissioned in 1987 leader if you choose to accept only the one true living God,” and 22 did.
as Messengers of Peace, the
Fudges are grateful for God’s Mjr Glenn Patey and members of Prince Albert CC with seated guests
peace which they have enjoyed from Chile: Pastor Alfredo Cooper, chaplain to the Chilean president; Jose
and shared with others. They Enriquez and his wife, Blanca Hetis
began ministry in Robert’s Arm,
N.L., as corps officers, and con- Major William Bowers Receives Diamond Jubilee Medal
tinued with appointments in
divisional youth leadership in TORONTO—On April 27, Mjr William Bowers, corps and family services
Newfoundland and Labrador chaplain at Toronto’s Lakeshore CC, received the Queen Elizabeth II
and in the then Ontario North Diamond Jubilee Medal. The award marks the 2012 celebrations of the 60th
Division, and corps ministry anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne and to honour
in Winnipeg and Triton, N.L. achievements made by Canadians. Cpt Lori Mitchell, CO, and Kathy Ratcliff,
Grateful for God’s goodness and the many wonderful people he placed CFS co-ordinator, nom-
on their path, retirement will be a time of reflection, restoration and inated Mjr Bowers for
renewal as they minister in the Army as retired officers. They look forward this honour. He is one
to sharing more time with their grandchildren. of 60,000 Canadians
Majors Ivan and Pauline Budgell retired following 25 years of joy- honoured. “He is very
ful service, all of which were spent as corps officers. Originally from active in the Lakeshore
Newfoundland and Labrador, Ivan and Pauline were living in Sudbury, community, providing
Ont., where Ivan worked in the mining industry, when they felt called visitation and counsel-
to be Salvation Army officers. Following their commissioning, they were ling, as well as meals
appointed to the northern Ontario mining community of Timmins, where every Wednesday for
they served for four years. Appointments in Bracebrige, Ont., Gander, more than 100 people,”
N.L., and Brantford, Ont., pre- says Cpt Mitchell.
ceded their final appointment Kathy Ratcliff; Mjr William Bowers; MP Bernard
in Whitby, Ont., where they now
reside. “My favourite Scripture Trottier, Etobicoke-Lakeshore; Cpt Lori Mitchell
verse has been Philippians 1:6,”
Ivan says. “ ‘Being confident of
this, that he who began a good
work in [me] will carry it on to
completion until the day of Christ
Jesus.’ ” Sustaining Pauline has
been the promise, “Trust in the
Lord with all your heart and
lean not on your own under-
standing; in all your ways submit
to him and he will make your
paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
26 I July 2012 I Salvationist

TRIBUTES CELEBRATE COMMUNITY

LETHBRIDGE, ALTA.—Captain John Fredborg was born TORONTO—Fredrick Allen Shields was born in Toronto
in Winnipeg in 1951. He became a Christian at a Billy in 1934 and grew up with brothers Glen and Jay, and
Graham crusade at the age of 14 and attended Victoria sisters Loretta, Lila and Linda. He met Muriel Attaway in
Citadel from 1967 to 1980. John had the heart of an 1954 and they were married in 1955 at Lisgar St. Corps,
evangelist and it was during this period that he created a Toronto. Allen attended Lisgar St. Corps, Fairbank Corps
Bible radio program called The Word of Truth (1975-1980). and York Temple, the latter from 1970 until his promotion
Still feeling the call to ministry, he entered the College to Glory. Allen served as young people’s sergeant-major,
for Officer Training in Toronto as a member of the God’s Messengers recruiting sergeant, band sergeant and in Sunday school. He was a band
Session. Immediately following his commissioning in 1982, John married member and songster and volunteered at the Salvation Army Archives in
Lieutenant Kareen Townson and together they served in two corps and Toronto. He especially enjoyed playing Santa for 40 years at local malls,
four appointments in the then men’s social services department. Due churches and libraries. He is survived by wife, Muriel; children Kevin
to health concerns, John retired in 2000, and moved to Lethbridge, Alta, (Joanne), Debbie (Ed Giles), Wayne (Glenda), Larry (Karen) and Bill; 11
where he attended the Army’s Community Church of Lethbridge. John grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
is deeply missed by wife, Kareen; children Mary (James) Linville, Miriam CONCEPTION BAY SOUTH, N.L.—Victor Patrick Howlett
and John; extended family and friends. was born in 1925. Shortly after marrying Evelyn in 1950,
WINDSOR, ONT.—Clara Winnifred King was a faithful the family moved to Conception Bay South. He especially
servant of Jesus Christ and a lifelong Salvationist of South enjoyed farming and looking after animals. Victor began
Windsor Corps. Born in 1921 in Strathroy, Ont., she moved a new life in 1976 when God delivered him from alcohol-
with her family to Windsor as a young child. Through a ism and many trials and hardships. A loyal member of
neighbour’s invitation, her family began attending and the men’s fellowship, Victor served God faithfully and
participating in the Army corps, with Clara becoming attended worship services until ill health became an issue. His testimony
the pianist when she was 16. She contributed to various and prayer were that his family would be impacted by the great change
ministries in the corps, including Sunday school, singing company, league that God had made in his life. Left with cherished memories are Evelyn, his
of mercy, as corps treasurer and seniors’ group leader, and faithfully wife of 61 years; daughters Donna (Derek), Sharon; sons Patrick (Sharon),
updated the corps history book until her death. Clara inspired many William (Louise), Junior (Kathryn), Jerry (Donna), Fred (Wanda), Edward
through her Christian living, including her daughter, Major Cathie Harris and Tony (Cathy); 14 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren; extended
(Ray); son, Stewart King (Heather); grandchildren, great-grandchildren; family and many friends.
nieces and nephews.
WOODSTOCK, ONT.—Major Lynne Elaine Sullivan was GAZETTE
born in 1945 in North Bay, Ont. She trained as a dental
hygienist and in 1972 became a member of the Followers TERRITORIAL
of Christ Session in Toronto. Commissioned in 1974, she Appointments
was appointed to the Bethany Home in Halifax and Mjrs Clarence/Karen Ingram, divisional secretary and divisional men’s
subsequently served in Vancouver, Regina and northern fellowship secretary, and divisional secretary for women’s ministries,
British Columbia. Lynne enjoyed appointments at Victoria Western Jamaica Div., Caribbean Tty; Mjr Joan McCarter, divisional
Matson Lodge, Kitchener Eventide Home and Kitchener family services, services to seniors secretary, Alta. and Northern Ttys Div; Mjr Richard
Ont. Further appointments followed as corps officer and in community Shirran, national SATERN (Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio
and family services throughout Ontario. In 1999, she was appointed to Network) liaison*, U.S.A. National Headquarters; Mjrs John/Donna
the then education department at territorial headquarters until 2001, Goulding**, Glenmore Temple, Calgary, Alta. and Northern Ttys Div;
when she retired. Enjoying retirement in Woodstock, she assisted the Cpts Ian/Ruth Gillingham***, corps and community/residential ser-
corps’ family services during the Christmas effort. Lynne and her caring vices officers, Yellowknife, N.W.T., Alta. and Northern Ttys Div; Cpts
ministry will be missed by many who welcomed her into their families as Jamie/Elaine Locke***, corps and community and family services
one of them. Lynne is remembered by her siblings Pat Hungerford, Alene officers, Charlottetown CC, P.E.I., Maritime Div; Cpts Royal/Donna
Harris, Keith Sullivan, Lorna Muslewski, Marjorie Cooke, Norma Ziegler Senter***, corps officer/community and family services officer, York
and Jim Sullivan; extended family; nieces and nephews. CC, Toronto, Ont. CE Div
*Additional responsibility; **returing to active service; ***re-
BThraenSdaolvna,tMioannAitrombay accepted for active service
Births
125th Anniversary Mjrs Stephen Court/Danielle Strickland, son, Moses
Long service—25 years
October 13-14, 2012 Mjr Sharon Wilson
Promoted to Glory
Special Guests: Majors Wayne and Deborah Bungay Lt-Col Raymond Homewood, from London, Ont., Apr 26; Mjr Allan
Musical Guests: Saskatoon Temple Band Hicks, from Corner Brook, N.L., Apr 30; Brg Gordon Holmes, from
Cambridge, Ont., May 7; Mjr Edward Hayden, from Strathroy, Ont.,
Greetings from former officers and friends can be sent to: May 8; Mjr Eric Brown, from Toronto, May 15
9 Princess Avenue E., Brandon MB R7A 1R8
CALENDAR
Phone: 204-727-6271; e-mail: [email protected]
Commissioners Brian and Rosalie Peddle
July 7-15 International Conference of Leaders, Toronto; July 30 open-
ing of Barbara Mitchell Family Resource Centre, Winnipeg
Colonels Floyd and Tracey Tidd
July 8 public welcome meeting, International Conference of Leaders,
Living Arts Centre, Mississauga, Ont.
General and Mrs Bramwell Tillsley (Rtd)
July 21 Rocky Mount, North Carolina, U.S.A.
Canadian Staff Band
July 8 public welcome meeting, International Conference of Leaders,
Living Arts Centre, Mississauga, Ont.

Salvationist I July 2012 I 27

BATTLE CRY

Be a Superhero
As Salvation Army soldiers, we’re called to break the bonds of
wickedness and the chains of injustice

BY MAJOR DANIELLE STRICKLAND

When my eldest Graphic taken from the cover of the May 28, 1921, issue of the Canadian is yes. And that’s awkward,
son was four, he War Cry unless you believe the gospel.
was interested in
superheroes. So, when we saw Word throughout history. and experienced officers who Jesus never calls us to a
an old War Cry that featured What does the Incarnation of wanted to see what the Army safe salvation. In fact, it’s the
an image of a Salvation Amy Jesus in the form of a baby was doing in our area. One opposite. Following Jesus
soldier armed with a sword during one of Israel’s darkest of them asked, “What is your in the Early Church often
fighting an evil dragon, we moments mean for us today? safety plan?” meant suffering, persecution
used it to explain to him how What does it mean for our and death by violent and
Salvation Soldier was the best own calling and sense of mis- As I floundered for an dark means. Fear should have
superhero of all. However, sion as an Army of salvation answer, my divisional com- motivated the early Christians
my son was quick to point that is meant to go for souls mander stepped in. “It’s the to stay quiet, lock their doors
out that the Salvation Soldier and go for the worst? To find same plan as the fire depart- and pray that God would pro-
image was in black and white darkness and banish it from ment’s,” he said. “We are res- tect them. Instead, faith drove
and must be very old. “There the earth? cuing people, so when we them out into the darkness
is no more Salvation Soldier,” see something on fire we do and has ever since as the Holy
he declared. The Salvation Army wasn’t exactly what professional fire- Spirit inspires and empowers
created to respond to need; it fighters do—we charge in! We believers to let the light shine
“But I’m Salvation Soldier!” was founded to aggressively get in as fast as we can and res- out of their lives and into the
responded my husband. seek it out. To find the lost and cue as many as we can from the world. This is the calling of
broken. To find the darkness fires of hell, injustice, poverty, Christ.
“You’re not Salvation and dispel it by being present prostitution, rape, violence and
Soldier,” said my son. “You with light, hope and power to despair.” Perhaps it’s time to res-
just dress like him.” break the bonds of wickedness cue our salvation message
and the chains of injustice. Everything got a bit quiet. from safety. Embracing risk
A few years ago, I min- The visitor then asked, “But with faith is how the gospel
istered on the streets of I remember one particu- isn’t this dangerous? Isn’t this is made flesh in our day. It’s
Vancouver’s Downtown lar walk in which we were unsafe?” how our witness stays true to
Eastside, which is Canada’s accompanied by some senior form and how people see God’s
poorest postal code. With its The answer, of course, love with skin on. We should
display of drug use, prostitu- live the words of C.T. Studd
tion, violence and poverty, it as he charged with his whole
was an affront to our sense life into global missions: “Some
of a clean and safe Canada. wish to live within the sound
Just being in the presence of of church and chapel bell. I
that kind of darkness seemed want to run a rescue shop
unsafe. But God had unmistak- within a yard of hell.”
ably called us to be present
in the darkness as a witness May God inspire us to seek
to the power of his light. We the salvation of the world.
were to dispel the dark fear Let’s do more than dress like
that permeated the area. Salvation Soldier and be the
heroes of God’s Kingdom.
Fear of the dark seems to
keep many of God’s people Together with her husband,
from working in that neigh- Major Stephen Court, Major
bourhood and communities Danielle Strickland is the corps
like it across the globe. Instead, officer of Edmonton’s Crossroads
believers huddle in safe cath- Community Church. She has a
edrals or comfortable meeting personal blog at djstricklandremix.
places and pray that God will blogspot.com. This is the last
protect them and their children column in the Battle Cry series.
from the darkness. Salvationist thanks her for her
contributions.
The problem with this
comes as we wrestle with God’s

28 I July 2012 I Salvationist

Too Busy to Love? OUR COVENANT

Do we really care about people outside the Church or so strong that soon my time is taken up by
just see them as targets for evangelism? meetings, conferences, study groups and
workshops that prevent me from walk-
BY ROB PERRY ing the streets. It is difficult not to have
plans, not to organize people around an
Photo: © iStockphoto.com/aldomurillo urgent cause, and not to feel that you are
working directly for social progress. But
When the question is asked whether a insurmountable barrier. I wonder more and more if the first thing
man is good, one is not interested in what The third promise statement of The shouldn’t be to know people by name,
he believes or what are his hopes, but only to eat and drink with them, to listen to
what he loves. Salvation Army’s Soldier’s Covenant reads: their stories and tell your own, and to let
“I will maintain Christian ideals in all my them know with words, handshakes and
I —St. Augustine relationships with others; my family and hugs that you do not simply like them,
n John 4, Jesus spends time with a neighbours, my colleagues and fellow but truly love them.”
woman with a bad reputation. They Salvationists, those to whom and for
sit at a well together in the heat of the whom I am responsible, and the wider Here Nouwen delineates a tension that I
day and talk. She serves Jesus water from community.” believe many Christians feel, and certainly
the well, and in turn, Jesus offers her eter- is felt by committed Salvationists. We want
nal life, the water that will never run out. In other words, wherever I go, and to spend time with our neighbours, we
with whomever I interact, my words and want to enter homes, sit on doorsteps and
Much has been written about the actions will reflect the fact that I am a play ball. Like Jesus, we desire to relax at
barriers Jesus broke down in order to devoted follower of Jesus. the well and meet new people, but we
speak with this woman. He disregarded are just so busy. We have our rehears-
societal stigmas regarding interactions This is a good promise, made even als, meetings, children’s activities, family
with Samaritans. He also dared, as a single better by its wide scope. Implied in this obligations and those TV shows each week
man and religious teacher, to be seen with promise is an understanding that Salvation that we do not want to miss. All of this is
not just a woman, but a woman with a Army soldiers are committed to main- OK. It is not sin. However, I would say
scandalous background. Jesus prioritized taining relationships with people outside of that it is also not always the best way to
the relationship here, and would not miss church and program, not as an evangelical use our time.
the opportunity to offer her the greatest strategy, but simply as a part of our lives.
gift. It is an intimate encounter in which Author Henri Nouwen puts it this way: This tension is even implied in the
Jesus went to her very heart. He never covenant itself. In the seventh statement of
once compromised who he was or the “More and more, the desire grows in the covenant, we promised we would “be
truth of his message. me simply to walk around, greet people, actively involved in the life, work, worship
enter their homes, sit on their doorsteps, and witness of the corps.” This statement is
Another barrier that Jesus broke down play ball, throw water and be known as a call to get involved in mission. However,
was time. He took the time in the middle of someone who wants to live with them. It one can only do so much and be present
the day to sit down, make a new friend and is a privilege to have the time to practise in so many places. Therefore, we must ask
share a drink of water. It sounds so simple, this simple ministry of presence. Still, it is ourselves: What is the best thing? How can
yet for many of us, time has become an not as simple as it seems. My own desire I make time for others, loving and caring
to be useful, to do something significant, for my neighbours, workmates, and “those
or to be part of some impressive project is to whom and for whom I am responsible”?
This leads to further questions: Who is my
neighbour? To whom, and for whom, am
I responsible? Have I defined this scope
too narrowly?

John 4 is the perfect example of the
heart of the third promise statement.
We are called to love, to spend time
with people from every background and
every class, not to program them, pressure
them or to even necessarily invite them to
church. However, if we live the heart of this
message, and if we uphold the essence of
who we are called to be in each and every
interaction, the life that flows through us
will touch those with whom we come into
contact. Our discipline, love, compassion
and freedom will be contagious.

Rob Perry is the ministry co-ordinator at
Toronto’s Corps 614. This is his last article
focusing on the Soldier’s Covenant. Salvationist
thanks him for his contributions.

Salvationist I July 2012 I 29

TALKING POINTS step, for me, is acknowledging our faults
and mistakes. Then it is about entering
Why I Love Atheists the stage of public discourse and making
a reasonable Christian contribution to the
We shouldn’t be afraid to engage in dialogue with issues that face our society.
non-believers. We may just find more in common than
Like most people, I am drawn to people
we previously thought whose values are similar to my own. It is
perhaps the single most-important rea-
BY MAJOR JUAN BURRY son that I am a follower of Jesus in The
Salvation Army. Christ’s core values of
Ilove atheists. And I don’t mean with people and a genuine love for our fellow peace, his core teachings of social justice
that blanket Christian universal love person. It even had a reading from the and his core commandments of goodwill
that suggests we love people because Apostle Paul. are the reasons I find joy in following him.
we have to. Some of my best friends are So I can understand why unbelievers mock
atheists, and so are some of my favour- I have to admit that I was saddened Christianity when Jesus’ name is politicized
ite writers, such as the recently departed when Hitchens passed away last year from by groups who have no obvious concern
Christopher Hitchens. Hitchens was an cancer. Why did I like Hitchens? Why for their neighbour or the poor.
outspoken radical and intellectual. His do I read people like Richard Dawkins
2007 book, God is Not Great, was a scath- and others who stand against the things I The fact is that many atheists have
ing rebuke of religion that described how value? I do so because their questions are values that are noble—an overwhelming
monotheistic faith poisons everything. troublesome ones that cause me to think. appreciation and awe of creation (though
While I disagree with Hitchens’ contention they wouldn’t call it that), a desire for
So it came as a shock when I heard that faith is a societal ill, I cannot deny his social improvement and an obligation to
that there was a memorial service held claim that religion, at times, has been an fight for human rights and dignity for all
for Hitchens in late April in New York. impediment to social progress and that people. They’re not all hatemongers who
Of course, memorial services are common grave crimes have been committed for outwardly snicker at us “believers.”
after someone dies. Usually conducted by religion’s sake. So I find myself reading
a member of the clergy, the services feature and wondering what I can do to better Jim Wallis, CEO of Sojourners, tells
hymns, prayers and sacred readings. But articulate a Christian worldview. a story about Patrick Greene, a militant
how does one hold such a service for a atheist. Greene fought against Christian
person who was not only an atheist, but As an officer in The Salvation Army, I expression in his community wherever
a self-described “antitheist” (i.e. a person have committed “to live to win souls and he found it. He was a taxi driver who
who was against the very idea of a supreme make their salvation the first purpose of developed cataracts and needed surgery
being)? I couldn’t imagine anyone close to my life.” This includes the atheist. Officers in order to see properly and retain his
him allowing a “religious service.” But a have a hard enough time making converts job. A Christian woman named Jessica
service was held that was consistent with among those who agree that there is a organized people in her church to begin
Hitchens’ own worldview, focusing on God. How do I begin talking about God fundraising for Greene’s surgery. However,
the beauty of the arts, the equality of all to a person who believes I am deluded not only did Christians help, but some
for even conceiving one exists? The first atheist friends worked together with the
30 I July 2012 I Salvationist church to raise the money needed. The
Christians could have heaped scorn upon
Greene and judged him as getting what he
deserved. But they didn’t. They showed
compassion. They didn’t expect anything
in return, such as asking Greene to stop his
counter-Christian activity. But in the end,
he did just that and became a Christian.
Compassion won out.

I know many Christians are afraid to
encounter people who are admitted athe-
ists. Maybe they feel that they lack the
knowledge to debate with unbelievers.
Maybe they are ashamed of some of the
things they have believed and said. But
maybe there is a lot we have in common
with our faithless neighbours. Maybe it is
about building a bridge and demonstrat-
ing the love that Christians are supposed
to be known for. We may be surprised to
find that there is love on the other side of
that bridge, too.

Major Juan Burry is the executive director of
Victoria’s Addictions and Rehabilitation Centre.

one future one life one weekend you won’t forget

25-28 october 2012

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