Journeying together: Who has influenced you?

Salvationists from across the UK and Ireland Territory celebrate others for the influence they have had on their spiritual journeys.

Demelza thanks 
Jon  

Many members of my corps have influenced me on my spiritual journey with their inspiring faith, advice and support, which makes it hard to choose one, so I would love to thank the members of my church family for being great influences in my life. In particular I would like to highlight the influence that Corps Mission Secretary Jon has had on my spiritual journey. Jon is very wise and is always ready to try and answer any deep theological questions that I have. He is definitely someone who is on fire for God, puts his trust in him and shows no shame in expressing this to others. Jon has helped me on my spiritual journey by demonstrating how to incorporate Jesus into all aspects of life. I hope that eventually I will also have the knowledge and experience to help others out in this way! 

Kingsley (Winton) thanks 
Major James Hill 

If you asked me to define a teacher, a leader, a friend and a mentor, I would not have to look for one – I would simply point to James! Like the first blossom of spring, which heralds regeneration and hope, James’ wisdom spreads far beyond our immediate circle, illuminating every path it crosses. His words don’t only teach; they inspire. They shed light on ambiguity and clarify confusion, providing guidance to everybody and everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. For me, he has been a source of inspiration. 

More importantly, he has served as a catalyst for my personal development. James has not only believed in my ability, but has actively created platforms for me to express my ideas. He has consistently welcomed me into this large, lovely family with open arms, making me feel appreciated from day one. What distinguishes James is his great humility. He is a leader who really listens. Every initiative, no matter how small, receives unequivocal support, resources and encouragement. His loyalty, respect, and kindness are more than just virtues; they are the guiding principles for his life. As James continues to sow seeds of goodness and leadership, I pray that God blesses him and his family abundantly. May the kindness he has poured into others return to him tenfold, and may every heart’s desire he holds become a beautiful reality.

Dennis Short (Jersey) thanks 
Mrs Horton

It was as a teenager that I came under the influence of a Godly lady who was our corps cadet guardian in Jersey Corps: Mrs Horton. She was great with the young people and helped us with our Bible study and explained the Salvation Army doctrines in a way that we young people could understand.

Mrs Horton also encouraged us to participate in worship, starting with reading out songs and progressing to leading services and then on to public speaking.

Mrs Horton’s example was greatly appreciated by those who came under her influence and love for her Lord, and this influenced me on my spiritual journey.

Pamela (Cardiff Canton) thanks 
Max Milligan 

I count myself fortunate to have been brought up in a Christian home where Dad was a Baptist and Mam was a Salvationist. Being number two of six girls, it goes without saying that it was a busy household! But not too busy that the name of Jesus wasn’t mentioned. My 14th birthday had passed and the corps sergeant-major of my home corps of Abercarn, Max Milligan, asked if I had given any thought to becoming a senior soldier. My answer was no! But undeterred, he encouraged me to think about it, and so on 16 January 1972, I signed the Articles of War. 

I will for ever remember the encouragement he gave me over the years, with many others being a part of my spiritual journey and I still remember that feeling of being loved by them all. As we move along on this journey, we soon realise that being a Christian presents challenges, and life is not always easy. Proverbs 3:6 says: ‘In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths’ (King James Version). 

At a particularly difficult time, our songsters were on duty at a big event in Cardiff the day after Dad’s funeral! I really didn’t know how I was going to get through this but words from one of our songs say: ‘If all were easy, if all were bright, where would the cross be, and where the fight? But in the hardness God gives to you, chances of proving that you are true.’ Whenever I’ve been struggling with life, these words have always been my go-to. I am a work in progress and God’s not finished with me yet! 

Moyra (North Walsham) thanks 
Territorial Envoy Ruth Morey 

Having been the corps officer for four years at North Walsham Corps 40 years ago, I left to take up a new appointment. Last year, I believe God led me to return to North Walsham, and the person who has influenced me most during this past year has been Territorial Envoy Ruth Morey who is the corps leader. Ruth has not only been an influence but also an example and I have seen in her ministry and life the same kind of commitment, dedication, pastoral care and love that influenced me to answer God’s call 50 years ago to become a Salvation Army officer. I pray I may demonstrate some of these same qualities in my own life as I attempt to fulfil the task of corps sergeant-major that she has entrusted to my care in the days that lie ahead. 

Kwase (Parkhead) thanks 
Aunty Flora Muir and Uncle Gordon Muir 

With hearts that serve and hands that care, 
You show God’s love everywhere. 
Through faithful leadership, strong and true, 
So many lives are blessed by you. 

You place others’ needs before your own, 
Through acts of kindness daily shown. 
With gentle words and smiles so bright, 
You bring hope, joy, and God’s pure light. 

Your selfless love inspires us all, 
To serve with grace, both great and small. 
A treasured gift, a shining example you remain, 
A blessing to our church family again and again. 

Sacha (Winton) thanks 
Captain Nicola Muir 

Nicola has been a part of my life for over six years. When I first came to Winton Salvation Army, she encouraged me in many ways. She has shown me that God loves me, that he knows everything about me. God knows what is going to happen to me. He also knows how many hairs we all have on our heads. He is everywhere. Jesus died on the cross then rose again. Winton Salvation Army is a part of me. They are like my family. I love helping people in many ways if I can. This is why I work as a retail assistant in the charity shop and café, and volunteer in Winton. It is my hometown. I also do sponsored walks to raise funds for Winton Salvation Army.