Eva Burrows College hosts future leaders training
- deansimpson7
- 12 hours ago
- 3 min read
The Salvation Army has trained another cohort of Culturally And Linguistically Diverse (CaLD) emerging leaders, equipping them for ministry across Australia.
Over the past nine months, the CaLD Emerging Leaders Training (ELT) participants have journeyed together online through monthly tutorials, practical ministry-based learning and online module activities.
The Salvation Army CaLD Emerging Leaders Training program is designed to equip culturally and linguistically diverse leaders with the spiritual, practical and intercultural skills needed for impactful ministry across Australia.
Participants increase their confidence, theological understanding, leadership skills, and connection to a supportive network of emerging CaLD leaders across the territory.
Recently, the 2025 cohort was invited to gather for an in-person retreat and celebration at The Salvation Army’s Eva Burrows College in Melbourne.
Led by Intercultural Mission Development Lead Savaen Cameron, the weekend retreat provided participants with the opportunity to explore future development paths and consider ongoing faith-based leadership opportunities in both ministry and academic settings.
Kicking off the first night of the retreat, Victoria Divisional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement Coordinator Tahana Turner guided the group through a circle activity.
CaLD Community Engagement National Lead Nuria Gonsalves said it was a deeply engaging time.
“Participants expressed their personal faith stories through symbolic art and shared their narratives in a meaningful circle. This created a culturally rich, inclusive space that fostered connection, respect and belonging.”
On day two of the retreat, Major Greg Morgan shared a word on intercultural ministry and life in ministry, and Mission Consultant Colin Stoodley ran a Presbytery session.
“There was a genuine and sincere tone carried throughout every prayer, blessing and testimony that spoke to affirm each person’s calling and celebrate their cultural diversity,” said Nuria.
The program not only equips individuals but also strengthens entire communities, as participants bring back new learnings, renewed passion, and a broader intercultural awareness to their local corps and ministries.
The retreat concluded with a vibrant worship service at Wyndham Corps (Vic.), where participants led worship, read scripture, shared testimonies, preached, and prayed for people.
Nuria said that graduates of the CaLD ELT program often move into local leadership roles, community ministry placements, worship leadership, youth and children’s ministry, or further study through Eva Burrows College.
“Many continue to serve as key cultural connectors within their corps and communities and eventually also consider Salvation Army officership.
“The 2025 CaLD ELT retreat was a beautiful celebration of culture, calling and community,” she said. “The cohort’s journey reflects the heart of intercultural mission within The Salvation Army, a movement where every culture is honoured, every voice is valued and every leader is supported to thrive in God’s work.”
Applications for the 2026 CaLD Emerging Leaders Training cohort are open. If you feel called to grow in leadership, deepen your ministry skills, and be part of a supportive, intercultural community, we encourage you to apply.
To find out more about the CaLD Emerging Leaders Training, including information on how to apply for the 2026 intake, please head to MySalvos or contact Nuria, intercultural@salvationarmy.org.au
CALD Emerging Leaders Training (ELT) participants gather at The Salvation Army’s Eva Burrows College in Melbourne for a final retreat and graduation celebration.
