Day 148: Praying for the Neath Fresh Expression and Core Recovery (2021)

Join with Salvationists of the Wales Division for day 148 of 150 days of prayer.

• 'Praise him, young men and young women. Praise him, old men, as well as children. They should all praise the name of the Lord' (Psalm 148:12 and 13, EasyEnglish Bible).

2021

Major Mary Wolfe writes:

‘A soldier at Skewen Corps had a conviction that there should be an outreach to those experiencing homelessness in Neath. A needs survey was undertaken, resulting in a weekly provision of food and clothing. Eighteen months later the leader of the mission heard a voice saying, “What on earth are you doing?” Her eyes went from looking at those queuing for food to a shop called Happy Homes. It was felt that, instead of enabling people to continue in their dire situations, there needed to be a pathway to completely changed lifestyles. 

‘After working with the local authority, police and other agencies, a building that could be a holistic centre was found. The opening was delayed due to the pandemic, but in the meantime a mobile canteen went out every day to feed those in temporary accommodation.

‘On 1 September 2021 The Haven welcomed its staff. On 1 November it was opened to the public as a Fresh Expression and Core Recovery Centre where multi-agencies worked together. In addition, showering facilities, medical treatment and an accredited training programme commenced. After a few months there was acknowledgment from the local authority and police inspector that antisocial behaviour had declined and that tenancy management had improved.

‘We thank God for all that has been achieved and praise him for all that is to follow in lives finding Jesus as Saviour.’

On 21 July 2021 the Welsh corps from the Northwest England and North Wales Division amalgamated with the South and Mid Wales Division to form the new Wales Division. A celebration event to inaugurate the new division was held at the Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells on 9 October led by Colonels Paul and Jenine Main (Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Leader Development). The worship included the reflection of the 40 Days of Prayer that had been held from July to October when we felt we heard the Lord say to Wales: “As my beloved people, seek after me with all your heart. Live joyfully, love generously, be Jesus in your communities, and watch what I will do.”’

Prayer

• Thank God for Neath Fresh Expression and Core Recovery Centre. 
• Praise God that The Salvation Army is serving Wales as one division. Pray for the DHQ team as it lead us into the next 150 years of telling others about Jesus and supporting vulnerable people.