Final Manu Avondale 2

8/6/2019 Final Manu Avondale 2

1/74

Book Chapter 10.2003/09 Stephen Cunningham-Collins (Author) Email: [email protected]

TITLE: WHERE THE CROSS MEETS, IN AVONDALE

SUB HEADING: A Story about Churches working in partnership

WRITER: Stephen Cunningham-Collins

COVER DESIGN: Where the Paths MeetDamieon Cunningham-Collins (Rev). BA(Hons), Cert Ed.

All Rights Reserved

DEDICATION

To my partner, Damieon Cunningham-Collins;

To my parents, Fred & Mary Collins

My small but, faithful Church Stepping Stones in Cwm Rhymni;

To those formidable women, whose Christian ministry influenced my spiritual development

through poignant Christian friendship and Counsel, in particular: Major Margaret Slater(SA);

the late, Envoy Phyllis Nancollis (SA); Winifred Wakeley; Clarrisa Russ; Rev Pamela Pitten

and of late, Mandy Ford,

To women with vocations to ordained ministry, who strive to empower the Churches to be

accepted and called by God, to proclaim the Gospel?

When God Calls, He Equips

Rev Dr Stephen Cunningham-Collins (2003-2009)
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]


2/74


ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Without the tireless support of my Partner, Mother, Sister-in-law and Church, this book would

never have been completed. I thank each for their tireless encouragement, appraisal, reading

draft after draft, financial and pastoral care. I would also thank the professional support of

Xlibris, in particular Roy Andrews, whose tireless and gentle reminders consistently kept the

project on track.



3/74


PREFACE

In this current age, women are at the forefront of Christian Ministry again, I say again,

because for many denominations women have been and still are the very backbone of

ordained ministry.

In respect to the past and lasting efforts of The Salvation Army, whose tireless

promoting of women in ministry has often provoke controversy, even from the earliest days

of that movement, its co-founder Catherine Booth, was a formidable influence to ministry.

Over successive generation this attitude to female ministry has encouraged and brought about

a wealth of talent that would never have been able to say a word.

Other denominations have taken heed of this movements attitude to women in

ministry and in doing so, acknowledge the vivacity and tenacity that women can bring toprofessional ministry. However, the argument for apostolic ministry has clouded out the real

and positive necessity for female ministry; in an age where women are under more pressure

to conform within the Church then before. Today, it provokes the pertinent question: Is there

is a need for another Catherine Booth in the 21st century?

In many aspects of Churches working together, women have and still are the catalyst

in both the local and national Church, in being so; much has been achieved through

collaborative development. In fact Ecumenical Collaboration is a real and ever present aspect

of a living Body of Christ.

This book is simply written for those who require some pointers in engaging in

ecumenical collaboration. In doing so, the three parts of the book are arranged firstly to

understand what is collaboration the various types of collaboration and the rationale for such

endeavours; in understanding the basic framework of collaboration the necessity for

endeavour is much easier to understand and albeit, engaging. Secondly, to help ground this

understanding, it has been far easier to envision a fictional townscape, with a variety of

churches, ministers and laity in the form of a novel that explores the various and sometimes

difficult decisions, actions and humanity that can and often curtails collaborative endeavours,

both within the collaborating organisations and also the collaborative project. Thirdly, to help

understand the methods that ensure good collaboration, part three explores the common areas

that need to be addressed consistently to keep collaboration projects steady.

The story novel is based upon years of listening to the struggles of those in ministry,

as a minister, counsellor and congregant. The characters are fictitious, the geographical

landscape has credence but, the town of Avondale is not formed upon any specific place in



4/74


mind. However, the stories and events have some substance and can be found still today in

Places of Worship up and down the land. Albeit, sometimes unnoticed.

The pure reality, of good ecumenical endeavour is clearly in the listening skills of

those involved. Moreover, those listening skills must be clearly honed into the voice of the

Holy Spirit, tested, retested and brought through in action that brings about both the vision for

collaboration and the actual reality in its mission strategy.

Listening, Vision and Mission are the sound building blocks that will sustain and

develop the strategy for the success or failure of ecumenical collaborative endeavours. These

three building blocks are often found not in the dialogue, but in the unspoken action that

creates the spark of life that starts the collaborative journey.



5/74


MANUSCRIPT (FINAL)

CHAPTER 1

Preparation and Expection

Enthusiasm for Mission

Sitting in his study after a more than usually full Sunday the Vicar of Avondale, Peter

Standforth, reflected on this events of the day more particular the lack of unity within the

Churches within the Parish. Inertia was certainly not impartial in Avondale, but neither was

gossip, even if a Church was not represented at an event, by the following day, they knew

everything that went on. If only the same enthusiasm for gossip was mirrored in mission then

we would be fine.

Last Sunday Evenings, pray and praise service which his church had invited all other

churches too annually. Attendance had been good, but again, no Salvation Army, the Bethel

Pentecostal Church, Brethren Chapel, or Trinity members. But, Pastor Dolly Paxton,

(Congregational Church) Pastor Manny Shenton (Baptist Church) and the Methodists from

both St Andrews and Northville Chapel, supported by their minister Matt Johns and his wife,

trainee Deaconess Carol; had been pleased to attend. Never mind he thought, at least we

increasing in number as the years go on. But, he felt much more could be done together.

Dolly, preach a really powerful sermon, which was received well; and he never knew

that Matt and Carol Johns could sing so well as a couple. They sang two duets, which had the

congregation spell bound and the round of applauds said it all.



6/74


Peter thought about the news that the Salvation Army officers were moving Avondale did

have its gossipy Christians amongst them. He learnt the news from one of his congregation,

Libby Brush, the Secretary to the Church Council; That the Jones had only been here a short

while and the previous less time again. Well lets hope this time the Salvation Army appoints

officers who can make it work. Then Matt has such a problem with Trinity Church, they are

so powerful, and yet, dont get involved in any outside activities not even with their own

churches unless they have too, at least St Andrews and Northville are much more outgoing.

Peter thanked God he had just one Church, and a Mission on the council estate,

Christchurch might be a huge barn of a modern building built to replace the former Victorian

Church. But, at least, it could be used for many things, and his predecessors had really

thought about a building that was multi-functional, and could be divided into small units,

using the partitioning that crossed the chancel and then lower down the nave.

A Preachers Passion

He was disappointed in the attendance from other Churches, but was not surprised at

all. He shared his feelings with Dolly. Dolly a formidable women who had learnt much about

folk in her many years of ministry retorted: Peter, Peter, Peter, when will you learn? Gods

timing not here yet, you see in one of my many dreams, you know about my special dreams

dont you? Peter nodded. God is going to bring people together in a profound way, over the

next years, time and time again, I can see a turbulence blowing across the Churches,

especially that, Citadel place in Market Street, and Trinity Chapel

Peter and Dolly were joined by Matt and Manny. Dolly continued in her usual flow,

not stopping for breath:God is going to break down walls, raised up people and bring

Avondale to its very knees as we all begin to grapple with working for His kingdom

together. Politely, the men nodded for fear of a reprisal. Dolly was a formidable woman,

with a huge heart and a real passion for ministry.

Dolly did not suffer fools gladly, was often so spot on it often unsettled them. Her

preaching that evening had been breathtakingly honest and frank, in fact, the men wouldnt

dare say or speak as she did. No wonder fear and trepidation followed women in ministry,

thought each of them, but they dare not speak it, for fear of reprisal, another sermon!

Avondale was a small Lancashire town nestled in by hills on each side, a former mill

town, formidable women and gentlemen. The Churches and Chapels had seen a bygone age of

heavy duty preachers and now, maintaining the Status Quo had become the norm. Clergy,



7/74


came, saw and did not relatively conquer, as like many other towns, Avondale had gently

settling into the long haul of spiritual inertia.

However, despite this comfort zone mentality, the consistent prayer of the few were

being heard in the heavens above, the visions see by some were impacting on the tomorrows

of hope and faith in action; and before too long the turbulence of the Spirit would wake the

spiritual and the lazy from there comforting slumber,

Gods Timing

Captain Sarah Miles found herself looking out of her sitting room window on a cold

autumnal day; half still bemused at her marching orders six weeks earlier. Now one week into

her new larger responsibility, unpacking done, first attentions completed she could now settledown to breathe for five minutes, and reflect on the last few weeks or so.

Why had the Salvation Army (Army) appointed her to such a large corps, she was just

a down to earth women, with a passion for social justice, collaborative ministry and a real

passion for the basics tenets of the Christian faith. A faith she had firmly believed in since her

Junior Soldiers days in her home Corps in South Wales.

She knew that the Army had always taken womens ministry seriously, but, to her

surprise she never realised that her ministry had been under the spotlight in such a clear way,

all she had done was remain true to her calling and in some small way made her ministry as

down to earth, collaborative, that is ecumenically speaking, and as practical as possible,

staying true to the uniform she found herself wearing, with her heart to God and her hand

out to mankind through her ministry.

But, alas, here she now was sitting in her sitting room, with an afternoon to herself, the

first luxury of a busy previous six weeks. She had given the Army 18 years of service as a

single officer and in that time had served in four corps and one divisional appointment. It was

only when she was invited to a special appointments commission as an observer last year

that she felt something was being planned for her future service, the shock of which humbled

her as she realised the level of esteem that she was now held.

She had been very happy at Chelsea by the Sea, a small but neat South East Coast

Seaside town, and felt that even though the corps was smaller than she had been stationed at

in earlier years, nevertheless, the period had allowed her to recoup her strength for the future,

while being able to keep herself busy ministering in that little sea port town on the east coast.

A corps that had taken her at rock bottom and reignited her spirit, in kindness she would

never forget.



8/74


In a different way she too had made her mark and left a legacy to the corps. When the

corps picked her up in the depth of brokenness, she in turn because of her hurts was able to

teach from the heart of the Saviour, in that, she was able to instil the gentleness of healing

through holiness. As she journeyed out of the despair, healing found a new way of expression

through her teaching of no nonsense holiness.

This gentle approach enabled a corps that felt itself too small to be anything special,

in that, even though, congregations were small, sections (band & songsters) that was just

barely functional; they too had a vital message to share in a different way. This materialised

in its extended ministry, to the elderly and the homeless. The affect, of showing that inward

holiness must have an outward expression, gave the corps a refreshing focus for its ministry.

The reality was simple. God took a tired, broken pastor and a small caring

congregation, that had no real purpose to its mission; married the two together and over fouryears, helped each to heal and find wholeness through the miracle of practical holiness.

Through brokenness, the purpose of God engaged a congregation and saved a pastor from

resignation. Thereby, ensuring that faith in the future became a refreshing restored reality

for both.



9/74


CHAPTER 2

Gods Appointment

Sarah could not help chuckling to herself, at the way in which the newly appointed

British Commissioner (BC), Commissioner Martha Jones, herself, a formidable welsh

women, and the Field Secretary Colonel Colin Singer, had approached her after the annual

national congress: how would she feel about a new appointment that would use her arsenal

of skills? She reminded her that she had been in her current appointment for four years, had

vital frontline experience in smaller and larger appointments, and that her special

ecumenical and diplomatic talents might be more relishing now she was rested with larger

responsibilities.

The serious breakdown she had had, a year into the last appointment at Upton, still

held her thoughts: how could she have allowed a narrow thinking corps, to break her

reserves so much she could have done, thwarted by small minded bickering; in reality, she

still could not fathom the answer, and probably never will. The good grace and swift timely

actions of her Divisional Commander DC, to move her, to her current smaller appointment,

within a few short weeks, leaving Upton, un-officered and under serious scrutiny; only served

to now appeared to be the hand of God in her future.

She recalled feeling a little confused at the time, but well meaningful senior officers in

the division, had been caring enough to nurture her through this difficult period of her

officership; while allowing her, to keep her self respect in tact. She dare not think of what

might have happened, she surely would have resigned her commission and well, what then?

But, she gave all the glory to the Lord, for his unfailing care and timely action.

Weighing up all the facts now, made for simple logic, the hand of God could clearly

be seen in the new appointment being suggested. The some what odd short conversation with

the BC and the FS, at the congress, her invitation to be a field officer representative at the

appointments commission; held every autumn at the territorial retreat centre, where officer

appointments were discussed, prayerfully made and debated.

Every officer in the territory had their appointments discussed by the related divisional

leaders and territorial team, resulting in the Field Team with the respected DCs approving

appointments from one division to another or, confirming continuing appointments or moves

within divisions.



10/74


Some officers, including herself, were past over and, approved for appointment

decisions at a later meeting, which were to be decided finally by the territorial team, but, in

her case, she felt, nothing was more forthcoming than a new role with no more corps work, at

least that was her thinking, how wrong can one be at guess work! At least she now knew

that she would receive farewell orders and, could prepare to move in the summer, but to what

and where would not be revealed until she had the marching orders six weeks before the

actual move took place.

Returning to Chelsea by the Sea, left her wondering what was going on. Her own DC

who had been at the congress and the commission, Major Millie Stilbury, was one of two

token women DCs in the territory and was in her last year of her appointment before

retirement.

At the next divisional holiness meeting a few days later, Major Stillbury took her toone side and confidently told her to prepare to move appointment in at the general farewell.

Major Stillbury, also informed her that she felt this new appointment would test her strengths

and build on her weaknesses. Giving nothing away as to the location or indeed the work!

Did that cause her concern, not really, just trust she said to herself, just trust.

Assuming that it would be another small corps appointment; perhaps somewhere with a

similar challenge as Chelsea-by the Sea. Nevertheless, given that she had been an observer at

the officers commission, nothing else gave away the prolific change that would bring much

needed challenge to her ministry as an officer.

All Change ahead

She recalled getting up the morning the Farewell Orders came through the post. It

was 8:30pm a warm late spring morning, and she was in a good frame of mind. Opening the

letter, revealed the usual instructions: that she was under farewell orders, and that the corps

should be informed that they were to prepare for a new Commanding Officer (CO).

Therefore, her first duty was to inform the local officers, and the corps, by next Sunday.

Well Sarah, said the two local officers, who had been at her side over the four years,

we are pleased you are going. Somewhat taken aback by the comment, Sarah, said, why?

Sid the Corps Secretary (CS) and Joan the Corps Treasurer (CT), almost in unison: you are

well now, rested and able to move on, we have enjoyed your ministry, but, time has come to

take you back on your journey, and we shall always be grateful, the army sent you to us.



11/74


Tears mixed with sadness followed, between them all, but, realising that Gods hand

was in the plan for Sarah, and that she should go out with blessing and praise. Sundays

announcement, was also met with a few surprises, it was as if God had planned the whole day,

everyone was sad, but, pleased for Sarah, a CO they had come to cherish and respect.

She was optimistic and yet positive about her future. Being a Captain and having held

five appointments in 18 years some more challenging than others; moves went with the work.

At least she had only had five appointments some of her fellow session had had many more in

the same period. Anyhow, nothing could prepare her for the Marching Orders letter that

arrived a week later.

She recalled reading that she was appointed to the command of Avondale Citadel,

the largest corps in the North Lancashire Division; with something of a reputation. The

shock, the amazement and the why me she recalled. She would be following BrigadierJones and his wife, and moreover, it was huge in comparison to anything she had been

commanding before. It took some thinking about, but, a reassuring call to her mother, who

was a dyed in the wool Salvationist and former officer, gave her the settlement she needed.

What about Chelsea, she thought. In the same letter, she was informed that Major &

Mrs Williams, who were currently at Downmead, in Wiltshire, would be coming in her place,

and this would be there last appointment. She was relieved, at least they would have officers.

The afternoon was spent on the telephone. She called Major Williams, and spent a half

an hour or so, talking about the corps, but she need not have worried, as he informed her that:

they had been stationed nearby some years ago, and well, knew a lot already. Again the

hand of God was in the corps future too! An arrow prayer followed: You really are

wonderful, Lord, every step planned thank you!.

The phone rang, early evening, and as expected, it was Brigadier Jones, the current

CO at Avondale. They spoke for what seemed ages. He was reassuring and yet, a little vague,

the corps sounded well organised and it seemed that the CO role was more administrative

spiritual rather than very hands on. He gave a reflective overview of the corps, a lot of

army activities typical of a large corps, not a lot of outside involvements. The quarters,

was, a large Victorian house, not too far from the Citadel which was situated in the heart of

the town. Financially, the corps was sound and the citadel was dated but, again functional.

The Brigadier and his wife were going over to the Red Shield Service, the armys

armed forces work; they were going to be chaplains on an air base. They had been at

Avondale for almost two years, and had asked for a move to a much small responsibility, as

Mrs Jones was unwell, and he was managing the corps alone. They also felt that a smaller



12/74


appoint for their final two years of officership would be more fitting. Reading between the

lines, Sarah, could sense something was not quite as it seemed, but time would tell. Nothing

was given away in the conversation, simply the basic facts, but this did not worry Sarah, as

she really knew Gods hand was in the appointment.

The six weeks prior to the moving day, went very quickly. Final reports to be

completed the usual corps meetings, farewells meetings and a huge house to tidy. Sorting out

four years was not easy. But, as always, the kindly corps folk were ready to lend a hand, to

smooth the transition.

She was now embarking on a new chapter in her ministry, ministering to a much

larger corps. She still thought she was too young for such an appointment, at 38. Would her

qualities and no nonsense approach bold well in this what seemed huge appointment;

reflecting on her better points: as gentle as she was, slight in high and round in frame, shethought she was a certain match for anyone who cared to cross her pathway.

She was firm but fair; obedient to her calling, and, her superiors; kind and gentle with

those who needed her care; surely in some part it was these qualities that had set her in good

stead all these years. But what about those weaknesses: forthright, a Welsh temper and a

distain for sloppy, bad or untidy. She laughed at this, and thought, her training years had a

lot to answer for, all that: knee drill, cleanliness, room inspections and discipline made her

who she now was.

Major Stillbury, called in on her a few days before the moving day, just to check she

was alright. Reassuring her that her appointment was right for her; and that even though she

was retiring; she would always want to hear from her, as she was an officer that would stay

the course and with Gods help go far in the movement. Moreover, she was not to worry

about her breakdown happening again, she was now too strong and well, the army had

seriously learnt a lot from her eventuality, that more support was needed at local levels with

single officers. They parted more friends and exchanged addresses and promised to stay in

touch.

Well, it was Wednesday evening she had completed her appointment at Chelsea-by

the Sea, an appointment she would always cherish. She was now all packed, train tickets

ready and all she had to do was wait until the morning to take that next step on the calling and

adventure that is, officership.

Well morning came, Sid, came in his car to take her to the train station. They arrived

at 9.00am, and as prompt as British Rail can be, she stepped onto the train to Birmingham at

9.06am. No tears this time, just firm handshakes and she was off.



13/74


Sitting in the carriage in her uniform, she thought about the next appointment, what,

would it be like, having never been up north on an, appointment. Nevertheless, she was soon

in Birmingham, and changed platform, and on the 12.30pm to Manchester. Arriving in

Manchester at 2.00pm, she was soon over the bridge and onto the local train that took her out

into the outskirts of the city and beyond. Half an hour she was entering Avondale, which

seemed to be a heavy industrial town, low terraced houses, lots of chimneys, in comparison to

Chelsea, it was very grimy, built up and dark. But, she thought if this is where God has sent

me, then here I am.

She recalled leaving the last appointment. Smaller but, caring, she would miss some of

the challenging personalities, but, knew she would have her work cut out with this corps as in

the briefing with her new DC recently on the telephone, it needed a gentle but firm hand to

bring it into the here and now, and also, a more open attitude to the wider sphere of missionand ecumenism. A focus the Army was now firmly engaged upon. Anyhow, as the armys

founder once said there is no discharge in this war, would this new appointment be a war

in her career or just a battle to be fought and won, only time would tell.

The train slowly came into a built up area, and slowly chugged into a large station, and

slowed at the platform. A tinny voice, shouted, Avondale all alight, Avondale. Well here I

am she thought, and prepared to alight the train.



14/74


CHAPTER 3

Welcome to Avondale

Avondale, arrival at last

She alighted the train, in what would now seemed a very old fashioned uniform: high

collared uniform tunic, long skirt well below her knees, black plain laced shoes, and a bonnet

that sat in firm place on her small head, with what seemed a huge ribbon tied off on the right

with the ends touching her shoulder. Her cases kindly placed on a trolley by a kind porter who

pushed the trolley along the platform to the entrance, where she handed in her final ticket.She walked through the barrier, into a spacious entrance hall; to be greeted by an

elderly somewhat burley gentleman in a well worn shinny uniform she recalled Sergeant

Major Villers words to her. Welcome to Avondale. We were so surprised to have such a

young single officer, we usually have married officers, of higher rank But, if thats the

armys decision who are we to argue with those that know better, better an officer than none

at all! she said. He did not reply.

Her first glimpse of the town was interesting from the front of the station, chimneys,

houses, shops, lots of terraced houses, a little like her South Wales home. She was ushered

into a taxi, and was soon alighting outside a large Victorian house. It looked pleasant with its

little garden and long pathway and a huge front door that had obviously not seen a coat of

paint in some years. Nevertheless, it was now her home.

Those first words really hit home, was she really that young, Im 38 she thought, and

established in my officership. But, worse was to follow. At the welcome tea in her new

home, referred to in army circles as the quarters she recalled the little party around the tea

table, as the Sergeant Major and his wife over the cold plated meal recalled the disasters of

successive officers before her. A funeral tea at her home corps would have been more

appealing, at least there would be a decent spread, and conversation.

Mrs Villers was quite plain speaking and firmly gave her a note of serious caution, no

one would ever be like Captain & Mrs Pikestaff, they was wonderful, they really knew how to

build us up, you have a lot to learn and live up to Captain. This simple but plucky title was

even more pronounced in a rough Lancashire accent.

As the tea continued the telephone rang several times, answered promptly by Sergeant

Major, not even giving her a chance to rise to answer her own calls, but, without stating the



15/74


obvious, described her to the callers as if she were not there, using terms like, another slip of

a girl, so young and at the extreme, poor lass she will have her work cut out

Returning to the table, Sergeant Major, as it never been away, quiet forgot his manners,

poured himself another cup of tea, to be sternly reprimanded by his wife. The conversation

did once, alight on the previous officers, but, in reality it was so obvious that something had

been seriously wrong.

Mrs Villers was kinder than her husband, but, the tone said it all. Then, she turned to

Sarah, asking lots of personal questions, family, appointments etc. Sarah candidly answered

by batting questions back instead of answers to the dismay of Mrs Villers, who obviously

thrived on officer gossip, Sarah knew the form, and bated well. Mrs Villers soon realised

she was not going to glean any morsel of intrigue from this officer, and gave up.Sat in her new home amongst folk who seem to feel that they had been hard done too,

by her appointment Sarah, felt a little apprehensive: but, a little arrow prayer in the

bathroom while she freshened up for the Welcome meeting at the Citadel that evening,

seemed to calm the nervousness.

The warm glow as the small still inward call of obedience settled in her spirit; that

glow over the years had been their every time she needed to dispel doubts or even confirm her

obedience to her calling through the many times doubts had assailed. She was appointed and

like it or lump it, they would find that she was the officer they needed: called and appointed

by God!

Meeting and Greeting

The welcome meeting took place in the Citadel in Market Street in the centre of the

town. Apparently, according to Mrs Villers not many would come as it was Thursday, most

would come on Sunday to see if they like her. Still not daunted she arrived at the Citadel to

be greeted on the doorstep by a little gathering of older folk in a mix of drib and drab

uniforms and some young folk with tambourines.

But Sarah knew from previous welcomes, even at a divisional level, new officers are

often on parade, in that, most folk turn out to find out what they look like. But, also, for the

new officer, its an even more opportune moment to perhaps register the temperature and

meet the locals. Therefore, being on parade was necessary and unavoidable.

The Sergeant Major ushered her quickly into the main hall, a few people were dotted

about some in uniforms other not, onto to the platform and through a door at the back into a



16/74


side corridor behind the huge platform. It was dimly lit and in a matter of moments; found

herself being ushered into a room: He smiled for the first time at this point and said, thats,

your office Captain, if yaw can call it that I will leave you here a while and come back

shortly.

Soon enough she heard the sound of an out of tune band straining notes that even she

could not recognise, chuckling to herself she though, o my lord what have I let myself into

Sure enough the door flung open in walked the Sgt Major and another gentleman, smart in a

uniform to match, he was obviously the bandmaster, as he had the white piped epaulettes.

Bandmaster David Parsons had a real air of presence about him that, she could not

put her finger quite on. He was tall slender, and had a small beard, piecing blue eyes and a

head or mop of silver grey hair, neatly combed back. He took her firmly by the hand and said

welcome, Captain Sarah Miles to your new appointment we are so pleased to have youhere.

Then a little portly gentleman stood in the doorway, she was, round faced, in her

bonnet, a little grey hair, but a welcoming smile. David turned and introduced: this is Richard

Jenkins, the Songster Leader, Dick, enthusiastically shook her hand firmly, I hope you will

be very happy amongst us. Then a few moments later, the Treasurer, Margaret Roundtree,

and Secretary Joy Jenkins had popped into the office and made themselves known. At last

Sarah had some perspective on the people who helped run the corps.

Sarah was taken quiet back by this twice over; it was the first really nice greeting she

had had since arriving on the 2 o clock train and secondly, it was the first time she had heard

her full name and title, several times in as few moments, with such firm but assuring tenacity

since her commissioning day. It made the last few hours melt away in a moment and that

warm inner glow just seemed to rise again confirming her in her new work.

The Sgt Majors steel voice brought her back to reality with a bump its time for our

prayers he said, and without further ado proceeded to pray. All she could remember was the

pronounced Ammmennn. As if he was ensuring that he was heard to stop. A little bemused;

the other local officers, who were trying not to laugh.

The bandmaster winked at her and wryly said its time to get this show on the road

the Sgt major Tom Villers, looked ashen at him: David had stolen his thunder, which

appeared to matter. Then, without further interruption, Tom took Sarah by the arm and

gestured her out of the room. She noticed that the bandmaster and other locals had moved

swiftly out of her way disappearing somewhere ahead.



17/74


The citadel, was to all in tense and purposes a huge building with many secret routes

about its space as she was to learn in time that she could literally pop up in most parts of the

main hall as easily as she needed too.

The route she followed with the Sgt Major took a straight route towards the noise of singing

and the somewhat perfect noted band, a left turn it seemed to get louder, she though, because

of the warren of corridors, dim lighting and high dark windows, that she was behind the

platform, and about to enter at the rear of the platform, to walk down onto the platform.

Noting earlier the fact that the platform was stepped and high she prepared to step

through the doors onto the first back step which was as high as the balcony at the rear which

seemed to come out towards the platform and veer off backwards. She could not be more

wrong in her sense of direction!

The corridor opened into a larger hall, it was only lit by the gentle lights from thatstreamed the street lighting. the Sgt Major walking swiftly, said in passing this is the Young

Peoples (YP) Hall and the quickest route to the front of the main hall without going outside.

Within a moment she found herself in the front porch, it was large and spacious,

posters in colourful array on its walls a staircase to the left and right with a door underneath

one of which she had just come through. The double doors behind her led directly onto the

pavement in Market Street, which was wet from the fresh winter weather and stormy night

that had started outside.

The Welcome Meeting

The large wooden off white doors in front of her with glass panes that were partly

frosted led directly into the main hall. The Sgt Major looked at his watch and said the

Colours will be with us in a minute. Sure enough a burley uniformed man called Bert, came

through the door with the corps flag ready to march her onto the platform.

Bert Jones gentle smile and chatty nature, took the better of him, much to the

annoyance of Tom. Welcome Captain, are you ready to meet your corps, were not a bad

lot, we have a hall full tonight. Quite a few from other Churches, including the Vicar, his wife

and the Catholic Priest o and that young chap from the Methodists

Youll find us soldiers, very sociable, even though we are often poles apart, but, thats

life. Tom glared at Bert, and he simply shut up. Sarah soon cottoned onto the fact and

realised, something was not as it seemed, her instincts were never wrong. But, thought, no

more about it.



18/74


Suddenly she was brought back to the moment in hand as the strains of the ailing band

struck the familiar song Salvation is our Motto, and the noise of the rousing congregation

raised her spirits. The double doors of the hall suddenly flung open and without breath, down

the middle aisle of the hall she went behind the breeze of the colours.

She w as proud to wear her uniform and marched behind that flag, its, simple

pronouncement: Blood and Fire; clearly and simple spelt salvation for the whosever. The

platform at the other end of the large main hall was huge, built to last in the days when bands

and songsters crowned the stepped levels of its heights, and the officers sat just in front of its

rostrum which would level any church pulpit for a preacher to stage any oratory that brought

souls to Jesus Christ, and high on the wall, at the rear height of the platform, the largest army

crest she had ever seen.

The mercy seat that ran the whole length of the platform was roped off with ropes tosignify its sanctity and spiritual placement in the army; she was pleased to at least see some

reverence for the centre of penitent prayer in this barn of a building.

Now finally seated in a high backed chair looking down from the platform she could

see that the floor space, the balcony, the platform around her, was filled by a very large crowd

of folk singing with gusto, the balcony had a few children looking carefully over its rampart

towards the platform, playing tambourines with vigour with an older but energetic well build

lady, clapping her hand with all her being. The band about forty in all, the songsters she guest

about thirty or so, were thrillingly engaged in the playing and singing of the opening song;

which certainly raised the volume across the large hall.

She noticed in the right side of the congregation a group of three clerics. They must

be the people Bert spoke of, I wonder she though, are these, the competition out to sound

out the new girl in town. She had been used to being the only women minister in a town, and

knew she would have some need to watch her step with the seasoned male fraternity.

Nevertheless, she was appointed to Avondale, and she would do her best to serve its needs

until she next had farewell orders, which she hoped would not be for sometime!

Nevertheless, she now found herself being welcomed into her new appointment, a

public service of installation under the leadership of her Corps Sergeant Major (CSM), in her

new Citadel. Sitting in her chair on that huge platform, she surveyed the scene before her, a

small band below the platform making an impressive noise or was it a tune, and a near full

hall with smiling faces, all viewing their new Commanding Officer (CO).

Would she be all they needed, would she soon feel at home and how soon could she

begin to make those changes needed to bring back the life into the corps programme, before

she gets marching orders again, something that every officer was accustom to, but, not always



19/74


welcomed. Would she be there, a year or a few years, no one knew, but God and the army,

she then calmed her mind and soul and relaxed in the knowledge that her Lord had place her

in this town and his agenda not hers would be the cutting and enlivening force that informed

her conduct and ministry in this place. The reality was she could not know the answers, but,

whatever path this new appointment took it would be under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

After much of the formalities, welcome from her senior local officers, the junior corps,

the band piece and songsters piece; sections that seemed huge in comparison to any of her

last appointments, she was finally given her time to speak.

She greeted everyone and in her gentle Welsh accent she preached a simple but gentle

sermon on Gods priceless Care. She made sure that the folk knew that she would be honest,

reliable and able to try and support so her sermon had to be simple enough to show she cared.

At the end of her sermon, she paid tribute to her predecessors, and thanked those who hadmade her feel so welcome in these first few hours of the new appointment.

Following the sermon, she was now officially, the Commanding Officer (CO) of

Avondale Citadel; in announcing the last song of the welcome meeting, O boundless

Salvation she revealed that this song, her own choice that; summed up mission and zeal.

Sarah went on to say that: Mission that is re-awakening in many corps and churches a new

sense of revival. Therefore, from this evening, she committed herself to ensure that Avondale

Citadel would catch the fire and be at the forefront of the Holy Spirits bidding.

After a rousing sing; she brought the meeting to its end with prayer. As some in the

congregation knelt at the mercy seat in re-dedication, for about half an hour, a gentleness fell

over the congregation as the Holy Spirit ministered to the people. The Songsters gently took

up the singing of choruses, as Sarah led the impromptu prayer meeting. No one could have

planned this end to the welcome meeting. It sealed again Gods hand on the ministry of Sarah

Miles, in this new and challenging appointment.

Over tea with the fellowship after the service, she was greeted and welcomed by her

own corps folk who seemed to be nice to all intense and purposes. The local civic dignitaries

were pleasant enough, as were the local clergy, at least first impressions revealed. But, she

could tell, there was an air of us and them, which in the growing ecumenical role the army

was moving in, was no longer a feature or requirement for corps.

She was because of her status a women in ministry, in such a large corps, still gave a

few shock waves towards male counterparts in other denominations, who were not open to

women in ministry. Unsure about the local clergy, though in passing seemed friendly enough,

but appeared to be somewhat preoccupied with their own statuses. How more far from the



20/74


true of the reality could she be? One cleric was a women, neatly dressed no collar, older, but

very part of the group of clergy present, so perhaps she was wrong?

The Reverend Dolly Paxton, the congregational church minister, made herself known,

and, ensured that Peter, Brian, Manny and Matthew; were introduced and as equally

welcoming to Sarah as a fellow minister in the town. In time Sarah would learn that these

new colleagues, were salt of the earth and colleagues that would be friends for life. But for

now, she knew Gods plan was being fulfilled first and foremost by her obedience to His

appointment.

CHAPTER 4

Best Foot Forward

Friendly Anglicans

The following morning sitting in her little sitting room, surrounded by her cases, tea

chests and her trunk she thought about unpacking and getting some normality into her life.

She was just about to go to the kitchen to boil the kettle when the sound of the door knocker

being rapped resounded through the house, making her jump; she was not expecting any

visitors, at least not so soon. However, she put her best smile on and when to the large

wooded door.

She opened it, and to her surprise, she was greeted by a tall dark haired big built man

who was about middle aged and a little well rounded lady with a smile to melt all hearts. The

Standforths the vicar and his wife whom she had met briefly last evening. Though you might,

welcome a hand to get straight. She was so taken aback by this kindness, which she could

only say, come in and thank you and would you like a coffee; which came out like a string.



21/74


They laughed and said yes please. Mable Stanforth, said we thought you might need

support today. We found when we moved here two years ago, it takes an age to get straight.

You being on your own in ministry must be very difficult, starting a new appointment and

getting straight. Without, a week or two to settle in before you start. Peter then spoke up, we

thought of you over our breakfast and thought as it was my day off, we would come and see if

we could be helpful. Sarah was pleased to see them and offered her guests a coffee.

The Stanforths spent the whole day with her moving furniture, polishing and generally

getting straight. The surprise of the day came late. Mable popped out for a while leaving Peter

to talk to Sarah. You know you have a difficult corps to minister to dont you, he said. The

last officers requested their move, as they could not cope with the constant field of battle.

Now listen, if you need a shoulder to cry on or moan on, I know what a difficult parish

can do to a good cleric. Sometimes it helps to get things in perspective. You will find all yourlocal clergy colleagues most caring and helpful and, keen to work with each other. You met

all of us last night, apart from the Pentecostals who prefer to stay in on themselves, Thank

you Peter, she said, thats so appreciated.

She then asked Peter about the town, what, was it like as a place. Very friendly

caring place, he replied; People are very chatty, easy going in the main, although we do have

the few odd ball, if we didnt we would be a strange place they laughed at that comment.

But on the whole, we have found it a really nice experience moving from a rural parish to an

urban one, better than we thought!

Mable returned with two of her large pies, baked these yesterday, I hope you like meat

and potatoes and apple to follow. O yes said, Sarah. They sat at the large wooden kitchen

table. Peter said grace and they enjoyed a meal together. The first of many that, they would

enjoy in the future.

After washing up the Standforths left Sarah to her evening. It was eight o clock and

she was quite tired. But, as she looked about her quarters she could see everything that said,

home and she settled back into her army chair and thanked God for his provision that day, that

first full day in her new appointment.

At least she had been relieved to know that the public house ministry would be

covered that evening, as bandmaster and the other heralds, were able to manage without her

that night. However, pubs would be a ministry she would engage in soon enough, let alone,

continue, as in previous appointments she was on her own in this work. But in Avondale

there, appeared to be a healthy team of workers.



22/74


Busy First Saturday

The following morning and according to army custom, she was up dressed in her

working uniform and house proud by 9am. She thought about the day. It was Saturday,

tomorrow was her first Sunday and she wanted to make an impact, at least start too. She had

two sermons to finish both in notes on her dining table, unpacked from her brief case

yesterday and a meeting plan to complete.

She was still unsure of what songs to put in the meeting plan and what musical

accompaniment would be available. Would she have a band at the 11am Holiness meeting,

pianist, or what? She knew that a full band played at the evening 6:30pm Salvation meeting,

but, would the Songsters sing at both meetings? What about the Singing Company (Juniors).

Unsure, she gave the Bandmaster a call. He was only too pleased to hear her voice.He soon reassured her that the band would be up to playing at both the meetings and

with the exception that they would play the first song at the holiness meeting and then sit in

the congregation for the rest of that meeting Which would enable them to enjoy the holiness

meeting content and, that the pianist, (Mable Cross), would play for the rest of that meeting.

And yes, the Singing Company would sing one piece as well as the Songster Brigade. At both

meetings the songsters would sing under the leaders direction.

They discussed the songs and the pieces being sung by the songsters and both felt God

had his hand on the meeting. Sarah also told him that as the day had a packed programme, she

would not go to the morning open air with the band and some of the songsters, but spend it in

the YP meeting, as they also needed to know the new CO.

A splendid idea, said, the bandmaster, you cant split yourself into two, they laughed

at that. But, it would be easier for you to come to the evening open air prior to the Salvation

Meeting, as its nearer the citadel, and you wont have to rush to be ready for the meeting. So

the solved problem of being seen in the YP corps and open air was solved. He left Sarah

feeling very positive indeed.

She then gave the Young Peoples Sergeant Major (YPSM) a call, just to check if she

was needed in any part of the YP meetings, one at 10am and one at 2.45pm. Doreen Williams

was also very helpful. A cheery lady in her fifties, married to an accountant who did not

attend the corps. Doreen said that she would introduce her to the Juniors, at both meetings as

some did not attend both the directory class in the morning and the juniors in the afternoon,

Again, Sarah had a positive conversation with another local officer and Sarah was able to

clearly establish the format for Sundays which oddly was not dissimilar to that of her home

corps in Wales!



23/74


A prayer meeting, open air or directory, holiness meeting, then the afternoon juniors,

another open air and the salvation meeting. Then she also realised, she was meeting the older

youth (if you can label them that), of the corps at Doreens for the weekly Youth Crush. As

she was in the upper age limit of the group, 30 something she would fit in, but, again, as CO

she could only be the CO, not simply Sarah.

She had an early lunch over the reading of the corps report left by her predecessors:

Brigadier Ron & Mrs Mary Jones. This important document did not give much away and was

only basic, as if completed in a hurry, but, it did give food for thought! The Jones were in

there last years of officership and moreover, that rank was in the process of being phased out.

In the future, unless you were destined for higher office, ranking would stop at Major.

Route Map to the Citadel

She had decided that as in her previous appointments, that the best way to tackle

familiarising herself with the corps was to would be to spend her Saturday afternoon finding

her way down to the citadel, where she could at least try to familiarise herself with the lay of

the land; especially getting use to that huge bunch of keys; she had only had one at the other

appointment; it seemed like she had 101 here! This direct approach, as in previous

appointments, could get her lost, or as she hoped, bang on target. So bonnet on head and coat

on she picked up the huge bunch of hall keys from the hallstand ready to marched out of the

front door. But just as she opened her front door, the phone went.

It was Sgt Major. Before she could say, Salvation Army, he was off. What are you

calling the bandmaster and the YPSM concerning Sunday meetings, if you need to know

anything its me you call, and I tell em! Sarah, felt quiet taken aback. She half apologised and

then, changed her mind in mid stream. Thanked him for his concerns and said simply they

would have a first local officers meeting soon and such matters could be aired at that time.

She thought to herself, well its only my first days in the appointment, and already I can see a

problem looming!

The direct approach, made another impact, it silenced her annoyed CSM, which cant

be a bad thing, her appeared to be something of a controller, and it also showed that Sarah

could put her foot down when she needed too. Funny she thought; its not always going

around the houses, that, solves problems, a direct no nonsense approach is often best in

starting as you mean to go on. Now, a more pressing problem loomed, how to find the

shortest route to the citadel. If she did not master this, she might be late for her first Sunday,

and that would never do!



24/74


She knew the hall was on Market Street and so she headed out of the quarters, in

Hillside, and turned down Hill Street toward the town. The walk into the town took about half

an hour. On her route she noted, landmarks that would help her get back to the quarters. In

time she would have a car, which her parents would maintain for her, but until next month

when it arrived, she would have to walk on Sundays and catch the bus on weekdays. At least

the quarters being just off a main road, had ample bus stops.

St Crispins the huge Roman Catholic Church was at the junction of Hill Street and

Williams Road, its huge steeple high above the street. The Jolly Tavern Public House halfway

along Williams Street. And the row after row of neat and tidy shops that led down to the high

street. Now at last, a flat walk that she was able to manage with ease.

High Street was so busy for a Saturday, lots of shoppers busy about, she noted Marks

& Spencer; Liptons; Littlewoods and Boots all part of the high street foray of largedepartment stores. People seemed friendly, some even acknowledging her. This was nice she

thought. Still a little lost, feeling like a fish out of water, but, that in her experience would go

once she had settled in.

She arrived at the market buildings. A large Victorian building with stained glass and

large pillars at its entrance; she went just beyond the entrance and noticed a sign pointing the

way to the Salvation Army Citadel. That was down the street that tracked the side of the

market building. She turned into what she now new was Market Street and sure enough she

could see the large brick Citadel about halfway along its length. The hall faced a row of small

shops and it was obvious that the rear faced the car park they had parked in last evening.

She stood outside her new building and looked at it closely. Its castellated frontage;

with; The Salvation Army chiselled out in the brick work; poorly painted and peeling.

Large windows; two double doors, either end of the building both with peeling paintwork.

The hall was massive in comparison to her previous appointments. It was a typical Victorian

design, following William Booths design of building in the early years. The building was

dated circa 1898.

She thought to herself, how; on earth can we really expect folk to be attracted to this

building with its faded glory? Prime location, but poor image, she thought! She took the

large bunch of keys out of her pocket, not even sure which one fitted the doors. After several

attempts she found the right key, one of three large door keys on the bunch. She was a little

annoyed as last evening all she was given was the keys and no guidance that the door when

opened was very heavy to pull outward. Nevertheless, she was now inside the citadel; she

slammed the door towards her, and relocked herself safely inside.



25/74


Navigational Skills, are Needed

The vestibule was cold, smelt damp and very dark, it looked as if the windows, hall

table, and carpet had not been cleaned for months; perhaps this was an oversight! The notice

board was full of posters, many of which were out of date. Some even faded there was even

an overspill onto the walls either side. The two doors either side of the notice board led into

the main hall, and in both ends of the vestibule, was staircases to the balcony area. Male and

Female toilets were at either side of the vestibule.

Sarah took herself up the flight of stairs on the right, out she came onto a balcony that

had forms along the top row, and like an old cinema all the seating steeped forward to a

central sweeping balcony wall, over looking the platform. It was at least bright as at that

height the large citadel windows did justice to the wonderful space with bright natural lightacross the whole area.

She looked down and the platform seemed to be meeting the height of the balcony, the

stepped platform a picture of a bygone age. She noticed for the first time the huge army crest

painted into the wall behind the platform, a little faded and two flags in each corner by the

doors off at its highest points. But what was more striking was the rostrum, a bold and long,

with a reading desk in the middle; plenty of pacing space she thought, she like to pace when

she preached, it kept her flow and salved her nerves. Newer flags were positioned

heavenward at each end of the platform, near steps that led from the floor space to the

platform, between which, a large mercy seat, ran the full length.

Being a captain of some seasoned years now, she was really finding her confidence

and flair at preaching. Her last corps, had a small hall, cosy by comparison, this was an army

cathedral; she chuckled to herself, could not imagine the army with a cathedral!

Nevertheless, this citadel of a bygone age was indeed a cathedral of salvation. But

what really stirred her heart was the huge mercy seat at the foot of the platform, in parts it

seemed warn, the carpet sad and faded in places, but the Jesus Saves motto written across its

form, was a real testimony to the bygone age, of going for souls and going for the worst, as

William Booth had clearly stated all those years ago.

The true reason for Sarah being in this place a clear acceptance of Gods call to be a

minister to the whosoever; moreover, this citadel might be dated, but, its real sense of

holiness and prayer could be felt as you walked within its walls. The real challenge that lay

ahead, as Sarah knew, wasnt buildings that needed saving, although her citadel might! But,

people, yes she thought people. Ideas, poured into her head about how this monolithic



26/74


building in the very heart of the town could really serve its people better. She could feel the

power of God, within the faded fabric, as if calling and yet, settling on her.

She sat for a moment on the balcony, as if empowered to do so, all the doubts, melted

as she felt the Holy Spirit, gently stir in her spirit. In that moment, she felt a peace that would

be a constant presence within her heart, that gentle answer to her unspoken questions

regarding this rather complex appointment was simply yes, she was in the right

appointment at the appointed time. She rose from that what seemed an age in prayer, perfectly

restored and refreshed.

She decided to go to her office, or at least try to find it again. Back down the stairs

into the vestibule through the double doors into the floor of main hall, taking not a lot of

notice, she went through the seating area, and up onto the platform, it was stepped in the old

fashion manner, for a large band and songster brigade; those where the days, she thought.But, in hindsight she thought, but, we do have a large band and songsters, perhaps not as large

as in days gone, but, in army comparison, large enough!

She went though one of the two doors at the back of the platform, and into a corridor,

she found a light switch, which brought light from one bare light bulb, the other had given up

the ghost. She notices four doors on her left, and two at each end on her right, and one facing

her directly. So she when into the first door on the left, it was an office or sorts, but so untidy,

a large window overlooked the market place, the net curtains had faded and where very much

in need of a good wash. She couldnt believe that the last evening she did not notice this

before the welcome meeting!

Going back, out of the office, and into the next room, it was full of musically

instruments, some on the floor, the large table and well music books on chairs, the window

sill and even the floor, a door off led to a urinal area, which really was the worst for wear,

with the usual lavatory room off. Not exactly tidy for a band of some note! But, in reality,

the citadel or at least the major parts she had been through were far from what she perceived

as being clean and tidy!

Out she went, her temper, was usually mild but she was becoming more angry as she

moved down the corridor to the next room, a little room fairly tidy with again music and coat

hooks on the wall, obviously the songster room, a door off it led to the toilet. Last room, a

small very dated kitchen, but, wow, was it so poorly kept. She opened the fridge and to her

relief she found some milk. On went the ancient Gas cooker range, the kettle settled on a

burner, at least she could have a hot drink to warm her up, and sooth her mood. She found the

tea bags in a cupboard marked Home League she picked up a tray, a cup, saucer and a small

teapot and prepared herself a hot drink. She walked back to her office with the tray in hand,



27/74


propped herself on the most comfortable chair and sat for a moment while the tea brewed.

She poured herself a cup of tea, added the milk, and sipped the hot brew, as she thought about

the citadel fabric.

She took her tray back to the kitchen, and washed up and put all the things away. She

then came out of kitchen and opened the door on the right, it took her into a lovely little room,

cosy, small tables and chairs, welcoming with childrens pictures, drawings and notices on the

wall, fuzzy felt puzzles, craft materials and a sand tray. It was so tidy in comparison to the

main building, she though her primary team must be very conscience of their work.

Going through the second door out of the room, she was faced with a larger hall, Rows

of forms, not chairs, with no backs to them. A little platform at the front with its little crest

above, not too high a step height in fact; and the little mercy seat with Jesus loves Me

written on its form. The windows that were only on one side of the room were bright, cleanand light streaming in, and on the other, a well placed series of notices for Junior Soldiers,

Singing Company and the YP Club.

Two doors led out of the room on She went to the door on the right, which she found

took her back onto the main hall platform, looking down on the rostrum and congregation.

But this was only part of the huge citadel building, which seemed to just have no ending, a

warren of corridors and rooms!

She walked across the platform top which was quiet steep indeed. It reminded her of

one particular citadel in South Wales, where the platform has a similar slope.

Going back in through the door that led to her office and nearby rooms, she noticed a

door at the far end of the corridor. She opened the door, which took her onto another

downward staircase. That turned right, it was quiet wide, and lit by natural light windows,

which followed downwards, but they like much of the citadel were far from clean. It took her

down into a large room, which was again as large as the YP hall, but was full of old clothes,

junk and much rubbish, which was damp and well, smelt stale.

The room obviously went under the main hall or at least the platform, as the ceiling

slopped, it was pleasantly lit by good natural light, from highly placed windows, too high to

reach or even clean. But, as she had lost her sense of direction, where on earth was she in

relation to the building plan?

It was obvious a room that had not been used for some considerable time. She found

that the room also had the boiler room off it, with a huge dated monster of a boiler in one

corner, and a door that led to a loo that had seen better days, what a relief she though that the

loos were in the band and songster rooms. And, her lavatory was off her own office.



28/74


At each end of the wall with the windows were two double doors. She went through

one and found she was in a small vestibule. In front of her was another set of double doors

with push bar operation. She could not resist in giving them ago, a hard push and a creak she

had it open, and to her amazement she was facing not just the car park, but the side of the

small town hall. She looked along the length of the building and saw that the other door

opened to the corner of the street, which was high street. So the citadel was well placed.

Stepping outside, she moved a distance away from the Citadel and looked up. She now

realised that the building had a two levels, and that the YP part of the building had windows

into the High Street and Upper Market Street. While the front of the hall stood on Lower

Market Street. She now realised that her building was indeed in a prime location.

Back in her office, she thought about the huge citadel building that she now had

charge over, what a responsibility. Where could she start? She was most definite that she wasnot going to be the hall keeper as well as the CO. Her predecessor did say that he often

cleaned the building and put the heating on some Saturday evenings. Sarah, did not mind

rolling her sleeves up with anyone else, but was not prepared to do so solo, after all the corps

did boast over a hundred active soldiers.

Moreover, why was, the corps buildings so weather worn, the finances were in

excellent order, and moreover, why was it wasting the use of such a wonderful lower hall with

great access to the town centre? What potential for outreach. She revelled in challenges, and it

appeared even in these early days, this appointment was going to be one huge challenge.

She found her way out of the citadel, locking the door, she soon found herself walking

up to the door of the quarters, preoccupied with thoughts about the corps the walk seemed

much faster and poignant.

Start as you mean to go on

Sitting in her armchair by the fire, the welcome meeting played over in her head and

specifically how the Sgt Major had told the congregation to be grateful that they had an

officer again even though it was a single Captain (they had not had captains or singles for

some years). She could now see why her predecessors, had been glad to farewell, having

spent two years, and had gone over to Red Shield. But, never mind, God knows what he is

doing, Im in his hands, and the future is his too.

Even the careful, guidance of her new DC Brigadier Maxwell Dodd and his wife Polly

could not prepare her for this appointment, or his wifes wise words, start as you mean to go

on, be the officer, not the second in command, put your foot down at the start, we have faith



29/74


in you, you come to this corps as a welcome change, many problems, many heartaches, much

to do. But we know you can do it. As a single, we know it can be hard in such an

appointment, but, remember you are not alone in this, do, make a point of keeping in touch

with us. In due course, they would visit her, but in the meantime, they just reassured her of

their commitment to her pastoral care.

She took no time in preparing a first to do list, first things first, the citadel needed

cleaning, overhauling and painting. This she would raise at her first local officers meeting.

But for now, she needed to establish her footing as the CO. But, she couldnt help thinking

that, with this done, the citadel could be a real place of worship and outreach, but again, time

would tell.

But, as doubts clouded her mind; she arrow prayed, I dont want a short appointment,

here today, done tomorrow, moved away. She thought of her friend Jill Jones, all she hasdone since college is move appointments, four in the last three years. Dismissing this pallor

of doubt, she stirred her tea and returned to her evenings work.

Quiet Moments

Saturday evening, it was six o clock, she had done all her meeting prep, her best

uniform was hanging ready for duty, no pressing paperwork and so a relaxing evening lay

ahead. Or, at least she thought! Being a stickler for getting things done, she could not help

herself in thinking about conversations over the last few days, some of which had been so

poignant others so dismissive. Then perhaps she should have a look at the corps books. She

was not a person to sit idle for long, and perhaps an hour would help in familiarising herself.

It might even help Sunday, she thought!

She could still not dismiss the words of Peter Standforth that echoed in her mind,

about her predecessors: they were glad to go. So really could she expect a lot of support

here, or not? So far, her local officers seemed welcoming, she had had a lot of welcome phone

calls, cards and flowers, but, what lay beneath the surface of the corps, intrigued her. Her

predecessors, Brigadier & Mrs Jones, they had gone on to a Red Shield appointment while

Mrs Johns recovering from what seemed a series of illness.

She knew the army was kind and caring towards its officers, especially those who

had had a difficult period of officership. So, perhaps that was it! Or was something else

pressing, even her DCs gave a sort of coded warning: start as you mean to go on, said Mrs

Brigadier Dodds. But, she thought perhaps they were simply being kind, as this is a large

corps for someone of my experience, and a lot of trust is being placed in my abilities, perhaps

thats it, nothing negative at all!



30/74


On her desk lay the yet unopened corps books: finances, soldiers rolls and the history

books. Well, her evening was now set, a gentle plough through the records might set her mind

at rest, or at least give her some food for thought and perhaps even, a hint at the direction she

should take the corps forward. What was its mission, and more so, where was its? Nothing

like a good dose of reality to stave off those devilish gremlins of doubt!

She had learnt from her last two appointments, how important it was to set the tone of

her command from the beginning, her DCs had reinforced this and her heart was set on

ensuring that her mission would be a clear and careful strategy, of simply listening and acting,

on what the Holy Spirit needed her to do.

Ultimately, she could be here a year, or a lot longer, but, most sincerely, she knew

God had an overall plan of action for Avondale that; was still to be discovered. And, come

what may, she, as a women of strong convictions, forged in the holiness of the movement shewas dyed in, and brought out in her love for souls and more often, her go get attitude for the

worst. She must have inherited this trait from her mother, who as a former officer, and now a

CSM in her home corps was still as formidable as ever.

Before opening the many volumes on her dining table, she prayed for guidance to see

a picture that would guide her mission strategy for Avondale Corps. Early days she knew, but,

a forward plan was vital. She was meticulous on ensuring that her time at a corps was well

planned, although she knew that others simply drifted into and out of an appointment. She

wanted the best for the corps and moreover, a well executed career path that reflected her

achievements.

The soldiers roll showed one hundred and twenty three active soldiers that were,

perhaps over estimated, but this could be adjusted in due course. The finances of the corps

were in extremely good condition, and appeared to have been managed very well in the last

few years. Turning to the history books, over the last five years, the corps had welcomed four

officers excluding herself was this a sign of something?

The corps had had no special events or special speakers lead meetings for some years

except those from DHQ. The band and songsters had been on some frequent visits to

unofficered corps and local events. Ecumenical events had been attended only by the officers,

and support for DHQ events had been infrequent.

No new local officers had been appointed in recent years, the last being Bandmaster

and the treasurer. The fabric of the citadel had not been decorated for over ten years, and the

heating system was over twenty years old, which explained in the finances for the payment of

constant plumbers bills.



31/74


Well she thought. Once I get this month out of the way, on the ground fact finding

things are going to change for the better. Now I can see why the DC said start as you mean to

go on. We cant get our mission right unless we get our fabric, people and message right.

It appeared that the corps has suffered a dose of spiritual inertia, and that would

never do, for a corps she was commanding. But she could be completed off in her diagnosis

after all, she was basing her facts on papers, not actual happenings, although some aspects of

recent days were off, to a slight degree or so. But, it could be simply settlement; many corps

go through this when a new CO comes, dont they?

Therefore, before making informed judgements, she should take the time to see how

the corps works, after all a larger corps may do things much differently. Fact finding,

knowing her people would be her first months goal. Then she could make a clearly informed

and factual judgement.It was now 9.30pm, so she made a phone call to Tom Villers, just to ensure that he

was fully aware of her arrangements for Sunday. Tom was somewhat argumentative from the

moment he spoke. Before she Sarah could go over the plan for the day, he clearly began by

telling her off for speaking to the bandmaster (BM) and Young Peoples Sergeant Major

(YPSM) it was his job to tell them what the CO wanted.

Sarah listened carefully to the what appeared to be his reasoning; then calmly found

herself half apologising but, then, stopped in mid flow by Tom, who simply told her the way

things are done in Avondale. Sarah, calm as ever, simply told him that she preferred to speak

directly to her locals, thus avoiding any misinformation or problems and as necessary. He

became, more friendly, changing the subject to the general matter of settling in.

Amicably they briefly discussed one or two pressing issues then Sarah reminded him

that she was one officer, and could not plan to be at every conceivable meeting on a Sunday,

but overtime, each section and meeting could be assured of her attendance. Very sensible;

came the reply from Tom. At last Sarah thought she had made some breakthrough, but only

time would tell.

Tomorrow would be a very busy day, a hot bath, a time of quiet in prayer and bible

study and then a good nights rest. That was the order for closing such a busy day.

CHAPTER 5



32/74


Turbulence

First Sunday, an Argument!

A bright summer morning, in full uniform, Sarah arrived at the Citadel, at 9.30am to

be greeted by a small group of bandsmen, young people all getting ready for their various

activities. She had decided that she would spend the morning in the Junior Corps, at the

Directory Class, and that her attendance at the open air meetings could wait until the evening.

Doreen the Young Peoples Sergeant Major (YPSM), was busy getting the YP hall ready for

the meeting, children and workers coming in, to what seemed like a large meeting, at least 40

children and ten workers.

This was a good start she thought! Sarah, simply sat with the worker, registering each

child in the register and stamped there star cards, the little pocket size book that provided,prayers, and supporting material for the Juniors. She noted that the corps had 25 Junior

Soldiers of mixed age all wearing uniform. But, as she was the new CO, she was going to

observe and not be a full part of the meeting.

Suddenly the door flung open. Tom Villers trombone in hand, standing in the

doorway, called across a packed hall of young people; Captain, are ya coming to the open

air?. Sarah said nothing, simply rising from her seat, walked to the door. Sgt Major about to

speak, but stopped abruptly, as Sarah met him in the doorway.

Closing the door behind her, she stood next to him in the corridor, and said: before

you say another word, remember who I am, you dont speak to me across a meeting or in such

tones. He looked shocked that Sarah stood up to him, But, you should be at the open air

thats your place. All officers go to the open air meetings.

Sarah simply looked at him, then told him in no uncertain terms and in a much gentler

tone last evening we discussed my role in some details, as I prefer to conduct it; you clearly

realised that as a single officer, I cannot be at every meeting or in two places at once,

therefore, for this morning, I am meeting the Junior Corps. Sergeant Major, I must return to

the YP meeting, enjoy your open air; at that point, leaving him in the corridor, with no

reason to doubt Sarahs authority, as she re-entered the YP hall.

Tom was seething, being sort of, told off by a CO, and a young women too. No single

women had commanded Avondale, and this first stir of female authority was certainly hard

for Tom to take; would he get use to it, time would tell.

His problem lay in the simple fact, that over the years many COs realising his

abilities, left him to his own devices and fell in with the status quo, after all, Tom thought,

well we have always been a married officer corps, and, we should do things as we have



33/74


always done things, how could one officer make so much difference? After all, its only one

officer less; It should be, easier! No family to worry about, no responsibilities only

themselves and the corps and of course the corps more much important!

No, he was the CSM, and, in-charge, how dare she tell him how its done, he had

steered the corps over three decades, through successions of officers, and he was still here, so

she better look out, he was not going to take this difference in style of command and in any

case, officers come and go, but the corps remains, the status quo has been good for

generations, why should it change now?

He met the rest of the band on the front porch of the citadel, and announced that the

CO was not coming and that he had never had this happen in twenty years, first Sunday, all

open airs. But, as he glanced at Bandmaster, bandmaster, simply said: I knew she wasnt

coming yesterday, so why all the fuss, she is the CO, and she can please herself where shegoes, she is one person, not two, a

Documents

Final Manu Avondale 2