Norwich church leaders leave city behind
2007:  Norwich Salvation Army leaders Majors Ray and Carelle Begley have left the city after five exceptionally happy years at Norwich Citadel and headed for the Army’s headquarters in Newcastle.
Ray was appointed as the Divisional Director for Evangelism for the North East of England. His job is to encourage, support and facilitate the work of 56 Salvation Army Churches and leadership as well as looking at how they may evangelise in their six centres for homeless men and women.
Ray said: “Evangelism is in my job title and in my heart. It is at the top of my agenda, which makes me a very happy man.”
Carelle has been appointed as the Divisional Family Officer. She will look after over 200 ladies groups, parent & toddler groups, Bible study groups etc. “The family must be at the heart of every Church, and so I have an exciting job to do,” said Carelle. “We will work as a team for God and to make his Kingdom grow.”
The couple have spent five very productive years in Norwich when so much has happened, according to Ray: “The city of Norwich will have a large part of our hearts for many years to come. I thank God that there is a greater unity that now exists within the churches of our city. What a privilege it has been to take part in all of the Prayer in The Park events.
 “To be on the steering committee of Street Pastors and see how God honoured and blessed this community project. To be at the first events that were held at the very fine Open youth project. Being vice-chair of NCCT for one year, gave me a chance to support this fine ecumenical group within the city,” said Ray.
“To watch the outstanding development of Transforming Norwich and its Network Norwich website. To offer my support to John Betts as we spoke out about the Jerry Springer Opera. I thank God for opportunities and voice that BBC Radio Norfolk has given me over the last fives years. I could go on and on. One of the greatest memories I will take away with me was the honour of preaching at Norwich Cathedral on Good Friday 2006.
“We have had the responsibility of caring for our flock at Norwich Citadel. We are so proud of the faithful Salvationists who work so hard and offer their time and talents freely to God.”
Replacing them will be Majors Denis and Olive Lomax, coming to Norwich after serving in Edinburgh for a number of years. Captain Jonathan Wylie a new young Salvation Army Officer straight from the Training College, has also been appointed to Norwich Citadel. They were installed on Sunday July 29, 2007.
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