Introductions The proposal to record songs with words by General John Gowans originally came from Commissioner Arthur Thompson (Retired) (former Executive Officer of The International Staff Band). I was We are delighted by this CD featuring songs by John excited at the prospect and delighted to compile a list of tracks, Gowans. The songs bring back a wealth of memories with particular help from General John Larsson (Retired). for both of us. Gisèle was present at the creation of all of these lyrics, so was the first to see and be blessed by Although the intention of this recording is to provide a legacy what John had written. Hearing them again as recorded of songs, it is only a snapshot of the repertoire available and by The International Staff Songsters has been a moving reference is made of other ISS Gowans recordings later in this experience. booklet. I was the next to see most of the lyrics and can still recall The majority of the music included has been composed by the first impact of reading them. But by no means were General John Larsson; however, other composers have been all of John’s words destined to be Gowans and Larsson featured and my particular thanks go to Matt Woods and Neil songs; some of his best-loved words are sung to the Smith for sharing a new setting, by Mark Hayes, of You can’t traditional tune of Bethany, and composers Ivor Bosanko stop God from loving you, which was commissioned for the USA and Richard Phillips have also partnered with him. In Western Territory Youth Chorus this summer. addition, we are pleased that the CD features previously The ISS has always enjoyed singing General John Gowans’ published songs clad in new musical garb provided by beautiful poetry and our desire is that this CD will encourage Gavin Whitehouse and Mark Hayes. people to reflect on their spiritual experience; to be inspired to make a difference in the lives of others and through singing these May these songs bless and inspire. Thank you, words, to become part of the Gowans Legacy. International Staff Songsters. Dorothy Nancekievill Gisèle Gowans John Larsson International Staff Songster Leader Commissioner General (Retired) DOROTHY Dorothy was appointed leader of the ISS LIEUT-COLONEL Lieut-Colonel Paul Main has been an in 2003. She finds the role to be a great officer for 30 years. He served for 14 years NANCEKIEVILL privilege and responsibility and a wonderful PAUL MAIN as a Corps Officer at Liverpool Clubmoor, medium for communicating the Christian Connah’s Quay, Douglas – Isle of Man, Songster Leader message. She grew up in Glasgow, Scotland Executive officer followed by Wrexham. The past 16 years and attended Paisley, Parkhead and Govan have seen him serve as Divisional Director Corps (churches). Dorothy studied at the for Evangelism in South and Mid Wales, Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Territorial Evangelism Secretary and Glasgow University, postgraduate study Divisional Commander in the Central South subsequently taking her to the South West Division. of England and Bristol Easton Corps. Following 15 months as the Assistant In January 2015, Dorothy was appointed Secretary for Personnel, Paul was appointed Head Teacher at Farringtons School in on 1 July 2016 to head up the Personnel Chislehurst, Kent, having previously been Service of the UK Territory with the Republic Director of Music at Wells Cathedral School of Ireland as the Secretary for Personnel. where she worked with many of the best This is a role that includes responsibility for young musicians and teachers from this and all employees, active and retired officers, other countries. She now attends Bromley the Overseas Services, Well-Being and Corps. counseling services and the Safeguarding Unit. He is also a director of The Salvation She has found it uplifting to be part of the Army Trustee Company and a member staff of Salvation Army national music of Cabinet (the senior leadership of The schools in the UK and the Western, Eastern Salvation Army in the UK and Ireland). and Southern Territories of the USA and has learnt a great deal from working with young Paul is married to Jenine who currently Salvationist musicians. Dorothy is married serves as the Divisional Commander in the to Gary and they have two sons, Matthew North London Division and has two married and David. children, Rebecca and Cameron, who both serve as local officers at Peterborough Citadel and Bromley Temple respectively. Paul soldiers at Hendon, enjoys walking, gardening and Cadbury’s chocolate! THE INTERNATIONAL STAFF SONGSTERS The International Staff Songsters is The Salvation The style of the ISS spans a large range of Christian As a choir, the ISS is regarded as representatives In July 2015, the ISS were delighted to participate Army’s premier choir. Its mission is to give a clear music from contemporary to classical, spirituals of The Salvation Army in the international arena. in the ‘Boundless’ International Congress at the expression of the gospel of Jesus Christ through to traditional songs. Whatever the genre, the ISS Overseas visits have included the USA, Canada, O2 Arena, London, which celebrated the 150th music and to communicate his love in a vital and seek to praise and worship God through music Scandinavia and Estonia, Europe, Australia and anniversary of The Salvation Army. The CD attractive way. In March 2015, the ISS celebrated and to be effective communicators of the gospel. New Zealand, South Africa and Zimbabwe. In ministry is also a vital part of their outreach work its 35th anniversary, having been formed in 1980 July 2012, the ISS made its first visit to South and their recordings allow the ISS to widen their by General Arnold Brown, then International All members are Salvationists, active in their America – visiting Argentina and Uruguay – and ministry to listeners around the world. Leader of The Salvation Army, who challenged local Salvation Army corps, and come from many in June 2013 they visited Norway as guests of the the group to inspire people with the ‘heart songs’ different areas of employment. Their current Territory. In July 2016, the ISS was privileged to www.salvationarmy.org.uk/ISS of The Salvation Army. Leader since 2003, Dorothy Nancekievill, is make its first visit to Kenya, sharing in some of the passionate about vocal music in The Salvation many vibrant expressions of The Salvation Army Army and her desire is that the ISS should excite, in Nairobi and surrounding areas. challenge and inspire their listeners. I Believe Welcome the Light! In the Face of a Child Wonders Begin Words: John Gowans Words: John Gowans Words: John Gowans When the Lord Comes In Music: Henry Thomas Smart Music: Richard Phillips Music: John Larsson Words: John Gowans Arranged: Richard Phillips Music: John Larsson As light was born into a darkened stable, All the stars sang together I believe that God the Father The flickering flame lit up the face of God. On that first Christmas Day, Wonders begin when the Lord comes in! Can be seen in God the Son, A talking light to tell the truth we needed, And the stars are still singing: In the gentleness of Jesus A walking light with sandals simply shod. Can you hear what they say? Lord, we are waiting for thee, Love for all the world is shown. A shining light which made the angels shout. Angels join in the chorus, Waiting thy glory to see, Though men crucify their Saviour, No one, no thing could ever put it out. Maybe ten million strong. Boldly pleading for thy leading. And his tenderness rebuff, Can you make out the meaning Lord, we are waiting for thee, God is love, the cross is saying, Welcome the light! His every word is true. And the sense of their song? Waiting thy glory to see, Calvary is proof enough. Walk in the light and let him shine in you. Strong as the lion, gentle as the dove, God is hidden no more, All we’re needing comes from thee. I believe in transformation, Welcome the Christ, His name is love. He has spoken his mind; God can change the hearts of men, Wrapped the gift of his love Lord, we are waiting for thee, And refine the evil nature A word was born, a single word for beauty. In the stuff of mankind. Lord, we are waiting for thee, Till it glows with grace again. A whispered word before the child could speak; Now his nature is known: Wonders begin when the Lord comes in! Others may reject the weakling, A healing word pronouncing absolution; God is Love undefiled. Lord, we are waiting for thee! I believe he can be strong, A strengthening word, empowering the weak! And his love is revealed To the family of Jesus Peace-bringing word of God, of health, of joy, In the face of a child. Not by the skill of our hands, All God’s children may belong. God’s word is love brought by a little boy. Not by the cleverest plans, Shepherds too come to wander, Not by might, Lord, shall we fight, Lord. In a world of shifting values, We welcome you, the Christ of breathless beauty. Moved to tears by the scene Not by the skill of our hands, There are standards that remain, Come, teach our minds to think in wiser ways. Of a child in a manger: I believe that holy living Not by the cleverest plans, Invade our hearts with mercy and compassion. What on earth can it mean? We delight in thy commands. By God’s grace we may attain. Live in our lives, all days are Christmas days.