Participant s Manual. Adherent Membership

Transcription

1 Adherent Membership Participant s Manual 2007 The Salvation Army Australia Southern Territory - Created and Published by the Corps Programme Department Contact us on (03) or corps.programme@aus.salvationarmy.org

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3 Adherency Session 1 Who is The Salvation Army? Participant s Manual 2007 (this edition 2009) The Salvation Army Australia Southern Territory - Created and Published by the Corps Programme Department Contact us on (03) or corps.programme@aus.salvationarmy.org

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5 Adherency /// Session 1 Who is The Salvation Army? What do you know about The Salvation Army? (Write down what comes to mind when thinking about The Salvation Army.) What do you think is their mission/purpose? (Why are they doing it?) The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Church. Its Its is based on the Bible. is motivated by love for God. Its is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in His name without discrimination. The Salvation Army raised up by God for the work of: Session 1: Who is The Salvation Army? /// Page 1

6 Adherency /// Session 1 What is The Salvation Army s place in the community? The Salvation Army (Write either true or false next to each statement) delivers hot soup and bread to the hungry gives kids something to do after school teaches disadvantaged people how to use computers and the internet helps homeless youths get job skills in producing billboard, video and internet advertising visits remote stations in the Northern Territory provides a programme to prevent and reduce the harms associated with drug use by young people discriminates against people according to gender, race or socioeconomic status provides an environment for people to explore their faith provides a project to prevent and reduce chroming (inhalation of solvents, paints and glue) officiates at weddings and funerals focuses solely on the spiritual well-being of people Page 2 /// Session 1: Who is The Salvation Army?

7 Adherency /// Session 1 Our History What happened on these dates? Fill in the timeline Salvation for All. The L, The L, The L. They were an Army of God fighting against,, and. Session 1: Who is The Salvation Army? /// Page 3

8 Adherency /// Session 1 Structure In the space provided, write the title that goes with each description. Church Member Church Leader Minister/Pastor/Reverend A Salvation Army church member or soldier who feels called to become an officer enters the Army s School for Officer Training. A non-commissioned officer who works for The Salvation Army in a ministry position under officer conditions. After two years of training, the cadet is commissioned (ordained) and appointed. After 5 years of service a Lieutenant is promoted. After 15 years service and advanced training studies, a captain is promoted. Promoted and appointed by the General. This is a positional appointment based on merit and is usually second in command to the commissioner or colonel Page 4 /// Session 1: Who is The Salvation Army?

9 The Salvation Army Australia Southern Territory Adherency /// Session 1 Promoted and appointed by the General. This is a positional appointment based on merit and is usually an appointment in charge of a small territory. Promoted and appointed by the General. This is a positional appointment based on merit and is usually an appointment in charge of a large territory. One officer at a time is elected world leader of The Salvation Army. Symbols and Characteristics What do the following colours represent? Red: Yellow: Blue: When is it used: Session 1: Who is The Salvation Army? /// Page 5

10 Adherency /// Session 1 Captain William Ebdon designed the crest in 1878 and the only alteration to his original design was the addition of the crown. Its emblems set forth the leading doctrines of The Salvation Army as follows: What do the following symbols stand for? The Crown: The Sun: The S : The cross of Jesus: The Swords: The Shots: Blood and Fire : How did the Red Shield come about? The Red Shield is an internationally recognised symbol of Salvation Army service to those in need. It represents the shield we provide to people in need of help, whether it be spiritually, physically, financially or emotionally. At the turn of the century, one of the symbols of The Salvation Army was a silver shield with the words Salvation Army emblazoned across it. The shield was worn as a badge by many Salvation Army personnel, particularly those serving with the Defence Forces. To distinguish the officers, their silver shields had red embossing. Colonel Walter Peacock, a well-respected Canadian Salvation Army Officer, designed and introduced the Red Shield into the Canadian-held trenches in France in This Red Shield was placed outside a welfare tent helping those in need. It was adopted worldwide soon after. A short biography of Walter Peacock is published in the Canadian Salvation Army Historical Society s News & Views, September As a result, the silver was replaced by the red enamel and became known as the Red Shield, a symbol of Salvation Army service to those in need. Page 6 /// Session 1: Who is The Salvation Army?

11 Adherency /// Session 1 Why do Salvationists wear uniform? The Salvationist s uniform currently serves three purposes: Internally Externally Internationally Session 1: Who is The Salvation Army? /// Page 7

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13 Adherency Session 2 Articles of Faith & Soldier s Covenant Participant s Manual 2007 The Salvation Army Australia Southern Territory - Created and Published by the Corps Programme Department Contact us on (03) or corps.programme@aus.salvationarmy.org

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15 Adherency /// Session 2 Articles of Faith There are 11 statements (articles of faith) that explain what The Salvation Army believe (our doctrine). Using APPENDIX 1, match up the paraphrased statements with the Articles of Faith. Write them in the spaces provided We believe that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments were given by inspiration of God: and that they only constitute the Divine rule of Christian faith and practice. We believe that there is only one God, who is infinitely perfect, the Creator, Preserver, and Governor of all things, and who is the only proper object of religious worship. Session 2: 11 Articles of Faith & Soldier s Covenant /// Page 1

16 Adherency /// Session 2 We believe that there are three persons in the Godhead the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost undivided in essence and co-equal in power and glory. We believe that in the person of Jesus Christ the Divine and human natures are united, so that He is truly and properly God and truly and properly man. We believe that our first parents were created in a state of innocence but by their disobedience they lost their purity and happiness; and that in consequence of their fall all men have become sinners, totally depraved and as such are justly exposed to the wrath of God. Page 2 /// Session 2: 11 Articles of Faith & Soldier s Covenant

17 Adherency /// Session 2 We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ has, by His suffering and death, made an atonement for the whole world so that whosoever will, may be saved. We believe that repentance towards God, faith in our Lord Jesus Christ and regeneration by the Holy Spirit are necessary to salvation. We believe that we are justified by grace, through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ; and that he that believeth hath the witness in himself. Session 2: 11 Articles of Faith & Soldier s Covenant /// Page 3

18 Adherency /// Session 2 We believe that continuance in a state of salvation depends upon continued obedient faith in Christ. We believe that it is the privilege of all believers to be wholly sanctified, and that their whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. We believe in the immortality of the soul; in the resurrection of the body; in the general judgment at the end of the world; in the eternal happiness of the righteous; and in the endless punishment of the wicked. Page 4 /// Session 2: 11 Articles of Faith & Soldier s Covenant

19 Adherency /// Session 2 Soldier s Covenant There are 10 promises which describe the lifestyle, conduct and attitude of a soldier. These are called the Soldier s Covenant/Articles of War. In pairs, read through the Soldier s Covenant and write down examples of practical ways that these promises could be fulfilled. Soldier s Covenant (Promise) Write practical examples of ways to fulfil these promises. I will be responsive to the Holy Spirit s work and obedient to His leading in my life, growing in grace through worship, prayer, service and the reading of the Bible. I will make the values of the Kingdom of God and not the values of the world the standard for my life. I will uphold Christian integrity in every area of my life, allowing nothing in thought, word or deed that is unworthy, unclean, untrue, profane, dishonest or immoral. I will maintain Christian ideals in all my relationships with others: my family and neighbours, my colleagues and fellow Salvationists, those to whom and for whom I am responsible, and the wider community. I will uphold the sanctity of marriage and of family life. Session 2: 11 Articles of Faith & Soldier s Covenant /// Page 5

20 Adherency /// Session 2 I will be a faithful steward of my time and gifts, my money and possessions, my body, my mind and my spirit, knowing that I am accountable to God. I will abstain from alcoholic drink, tobacco, the non-medical use of addictive drugs, gambling, pornography, the occult, and all else that could enslave the body or spirit. I will be faithful to the purposes for which God raised up The Salvation Army, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, endeavouring to win others to Him, and in His name caring for the needy and the disadvantaged. I will be actively involved, as l am able, in the life, work, worship and witness of the corps, giving as large a proportion of my income as possible to support its ministries and the worldwide work of the Army. I will be true to the principles and practices of The Salvation Army, loyal to its leaders, and I will show the spirit of Salvationism whether in times of popularity or persecution. Reflection Questions: (individually write the answers to these questions) What things am I already doing? Page 6 /// Session 2: 11 Articles of Faith & Soldier s Covenant

21 Adherency /// Session 2 What things do I need to do to keep growing in the things of God? Sacraments The Salvation Army believes that no particular outward observance is necessary to inward grace, and that God s grace is freely and readily accessible to all people at all times in all places. Christ is the one True Sacrament. Sacramental living is at the heart of holiness and discipleship. Baptism: The essential baptism is that of the Holy Spirit when a person is born again and inspired by God s love. Ceremonies such as infant baptism, believer s baptism, dedication services and swearing-in of soldiers are valuable so long as people do not rely on them instead of the Holy Spirit. 1 For we were all baptised by one Spirit into one body whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 1 Corinthians 12:13. The Lord s Supper: When Salvationists attend other Christian gatherings in which a form of communion is included, they may partake if they so choose and if the host church allows. This decision will depend very much upon how the sacrament is explained or interpreted by the host church. The love feast provides the opportunity to affirm one another in Christlike love in a context of shared food and fellowship, and this, together with other creative options, ought to be explored as a means of remembering Christ and His self-sacrifice at Calvary. 2 Mercy Seat (or Penitent Form): A bench provided as a place where people can kneel to pray, seek salvation or make a special consecration to God s will and service. The mercy seat is usually situated between the platform and main area of Army halls as a focal point to remind all of God s reconciling and redeeming presence. Open question time: Are there any questions you would like to ask? (Write them here:) 1 John Coutts - This we believe p Shaw Clifton - Who are these Salvationists p. 99 Session 2: 11 Articles of Faith & Soldier s Covenant /// Page 7

22 Adherency /// Session 2 This session provides an introduction to Salvation Army beliefs. Classes are held to explore the ideas in more depth for those interested in soldiership. Information Sources: There are a number of excellent books, pamphlets and DVDs that explain in greater detail information about The Salvation Army. Booklets: Getting to know The Salvation Army published by Australia Southern Territorial Headquarters A place to belong Adherency in The Salvation Army published by Australia Southern Territorial Headquarters (Corps Programme Department) Heart to God and Hand to Man published by Australia Eastern Territory Public Relations Department Books: Salvation Story (1998) Authors/Contributors: International Doctrine Council Territory of Origin: International Headquarters (Salvation Story downloadable in FREE PDF format from: Battle Orders (1989) Authors/Contributors: Chick Yuill Territory of Origin: International Headquarters C.L.A.S.S. [Christian Life and Service Seminars] (1990) Authors/Contributors: Christine Hewitt Territory of Origin: Australia Eastern Territory Manual of Salvationism (1968) Authors/Contributors: Milton Agnew, Alfred Simester Territory of Origin: Canada & Bermuda Territory Called to Be God s People (1999) Authors/Contributors: Robert Street (International Spiritual Life Commission) Territory of Origin: International Headquarters Chosen to be a Soldier (1977 Revised Edition) Authors/Contributors: William Booth Territory of Origin: International Headquarters Who are these Salvationists? (1999) Authors/Contributors: Shaw Clifton Territory of Origin: US National This We Believe (1976) Authors/Contributors: John Coutts Territory of Origin: International Headquarters DVD Series: A Cause to Die For 1-3 ( ) Authors/Contributors: Communications Department, Peter Hobbs Territory of Origin: Australia Eastern Territory Page 8 /// Session 2: 11 Articles of Faith & Soldier s Covenant

23 Adherency Session 3 Corps Ministries Participant s Manual 2007 The Salvation Army Australia Southern Territory - Created and Published by the Corps Programme Department Contact us on (03) or corps.programme@aus.salvationarmy.org

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25 Adherency /// Session 3 Corps Ministries The Salvation Army is about the gospel of the. (It caters to every facet of your life including your family.) Throughout the week, Salvation Army churches provide a multitude of activities for both church and local community members. Write a brief explanation of each ministry. Sunday School or Kids Church Session 3: Corps Ministries /// Page 1

26 Adherency /// Session 3 Adults Page 2 /// Session 3: Corps Ministries

27 Adherency /// Session 3 In session 1, we looked briefly at The Salvation Army s place in the community. There is a broad range of social programmes offered to cater to the varied needs of the community. Choose from the list below and write the name of the Social Programme next to the explanation. Youth and Children s Services Migrant Services Disability Services Family Support Services Emergency Services Addiction Services Child Sponsorship Domestic Violence Services Aged Care Family Tracing Service Court and Prison Services Employment Plus Homeless Services Salvo Stores We offer programmes (operating in all states) that address alcohol, drug, gambling and other addictive behaviour. We look at needs in a holistic manner, working to address the underlying psychosocial aspects of misuse as well as linking into the range of other treatment services required to achieve lasting outcomes. We are committed to meeting the needs of the aged homeless and destitute. We assist thousands of needy children in developing countries around the world. We provide counsel, support, representation, rehabilitation and programmes for people accessing court, prison and post-referral services. We provide training, support and accommodation services for the disabled in many parts of Australia. Session 3: Corps Ministries /// Page 3

28 Adherency /// Session 3 Refuges are open to all women escaping domestic violence who are in need of safe accommodation and personal support. Child care facilities are provided within these services to ensure that both children and their mothers are able to be adequately assisted. We respond to people in times of emergency and disaster providing assistance such as meals, clothing, financial aid, emergency shelters and counselling. More than 400,000 people have already succeeded in finding a job where they fit right in. The Salvation Army provides many services that support and strengthen families, and respond when families are unable to cope. We endeavour to locate family members whose current whereabouts are unknown and who are being sought for the purpose of re-uniting the family. Homelessness can affect anyone you know. Through our network of services such as counselling, legal aid, domestic violence support and lifestyle programmes, we aim to bring people back into society, strong and equipped to fulfil a valued role in the community. Page 4 /// Session 3: Corps Ministries

29 Adherency /// Session 3 We offer a range of different programs including financial, legal and material aid, language classes, counselling, personal support and access to community networks for migrants and refugees. We assist the community by providing reasonablypriced good-quality used clothing, furniture and other household goods which are free to families referred by a welfare officer. We contribute to the protection of the environment by recycling waste and providing industry with recycled cleaning materials. We want to help young Australians get the education they deserve by making sure that they are both physically and emotionally ready to start the school year. The Salvation Army operates a small number of innovative and responsive youth programmes and is Australia s largest provider of services for young homeless people. As a community of faith, an important part of corps ministries is establishing and maintaining relationships between the people in our corps and the people in our social programmes. What are my options for membership? There are two types of membership: 1. Soldiers like members of a church congregation, they have their regular employment and serve in The Salvation Army as well. A soldier is encouraged to wear uniform. Conditions of soldiership are: Session 3: Corps Ministries /// Page 5

30 Adherency /// Session 3 2. Adherents an associate member. While not entering into the Soldier s Covenant, an Adherent: Conditions of adherent membership: Be years of age or over. Not an of any other religious body. Has completed the Meets the for Adherents outlined above. What do the following statements mean to you? (Write in space provided) I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ I believe Jesus died and rose again so I may be forgiven, and set free from my sin. And seek to follow Him By seeking to follow Him, I accept the new life He offers me. And be like Him I want my life to reflect Jesus in all I think, or say or do. Page 6 /// Session 3: Corps Ministries

31 Adherency /// Session 3 Focusing Questions In what ways can you participate in and support the local Salvation Army congregation? How can you make The Salvation Army mission your own? How do I become an adherent member? You will be presented with an official certificate and welcomed as an Adherent member in a simple public ceremony Upon acceptance, your name will be entered on the Adherents roll Application will be submitted to the Pastoral Care Council You are encouraged to attend membership classes Complete the application form Speak to the Officer at the Corps in your community Session 3: Corps Ministries /// Page 7

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33 Appendix 1 Saved people are given the chance to be used by God to help him. When they have given themselves to him fully, they can be given power to serve him, and be kept from sinning. Our first parents, by their disobedience, lost their sense of God s favour, and came under the power of sin; and because of this we are all inclined to do wrong. God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit are one God. On the cross Jesus suffered and died for the sins of everyone, so that whoever wants to may be saved. Salvation is a free gift from God. It is received when we believe in Jesus; and when we are saved we know it. To keep good we trust in Jesus to help us, and we must go on doing as he wants us to do. When our bodies die we ourselves will go on living in a new and different way. At the end of time Jesus will judge all people. Those who have chosen him to be their Saviour will be happy to live with him as their King, forever. Those who have not done so will always be unhappy because they chose what separates them from all that is good and lovely. To be saved we must truly be sorry for doing wrong and trust in Jesus; then the Holy Spirit will make us new people. Jesus is both truly God and truly human: he has both God s nature and our nature. There is only one God, and he is altogether perfect in every way. He is the Creator, Preserver and Governor of all things. We should not worship anyone or anything else. God helped good men to speak and write what is in the Bible, so that from it we may learn the way God means us to live The Salvation Army Australia Southern Territory - Created and Published by the Corps Programme Department Contact us on (03) or corps.programme@aus.salvationarmy.org

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