Palm branches, new classrooms and air raids – international briefs
- simoneworthing
- Apr 17
- 3 min read
As the Salvation Army world gears up for Easter and the close of Lent, some regions are celebrating, while others are facing the horrors of war and unrest. Many, however, took time this past Sunday to reflect on Jesus' entrance into ancient Jerusalem.
Palm Sunday around the world
The Salvation Army around the world joyfully celebrated Palm Sunday on 13 April to remember the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem at the beginning of what we now call Holy Week. Palm branches could be seen in processions across the world, with TSA bands playing in the streets of India, Pakistan, Malawi, Zimbabwe and more.
To see photos from Zambia to Moldova, you can scroll through below.
Ukrainian air-raid sirens impact spring holiday fun for kids
As Russia’s war in Ukraine continues to rage, Salvation Army corps around the country strive to bring as much fun and normality to children’s lives as they can. During the recent spring holiday break, corps teams have taken children to movies, indoor playgrounds, museums and the theatre. Activities have also taken place at the corps.
During one excursion to a regional puppet theatre, the children were enjoying the show when an air-raid siren preventing them seeing the end. Regardless, the children had a wonderful day, and the week of activities has given them a much-needed break from the trauma of war.
Boroko Primary School, PNG, opens new classrooms
A new chapter begins this week at The Salvation Army Boroko Primary School, Papua New Guinea, with the opening and dedication of new high school classrooms for grades 9 and 10.
The day began with prayer, followed by a warm welcome and speeches. Mrs. Mary Kalit, Principal, shared that in 2025, 23 students are studying in grade 9. She reminded everyone of the school’s commitment that, “No child is to be left behind.”
Mrs. Kalit also called on the support of The Salvation Army team as the school looks forward to fully establishing the Junior High School (grades 7 to 10) by next year.
“Colonel Chris Goa, Territorial Commander, took us down memory lane – from the humble beginnings of how the Boroka Primary School came to be,” the Papua New Guinea team wrote on their Facebook page. “He explained its beginning as a childcare centre in the 1970s, to Boroko Elementary in 1997, then Boroko Primary School in 2000, and eventually the first Boroko High School in 2006. After a period of transition and relocation to Koki, today marks a return to where it all started – a true moment of revival and purpose.
“He reminded the 23 students: ‘You are the best. Be proud of who you are. You are the second pioneers after the closing of Koki Secondary in 2016. This is your time’.”
As well as at Boroko Primary School, another high school will also be launched in Lae.
“There is nothing too difficult for God,” said Colonel Chris. “What you see today is the hand of God moving through people who believe in the power of education for our children.”
The day concluded with Colonel Tilitah Goa offering a prayer of dedication – blessing each classroom and every student who will sit there – followed by the official ribbon-cutting ceremony.
What a drama!
Drama, in its various forms, has been a part of Salvation Army ministry since the beginning. So, what did the Founders and Salvationists since then understand about the power of this art form that has kept it alive in the Army for more than 150 years? How did we get from Evangeline Booth’s pop-up street performances to modern-day musicals and TikToks?
In this episode of the Salvationist podcast, Wendy Woodland, a Salvationist from Newfoundland, Canada, who is also a professional actor, singer and more, shares her thoughts on the Army's dramatic history and how we can keep it alive today.
The interviewers also chat with Dara Murphy, Elizabeth Shepherd and Colonel Glen Shepherd from Montreal Citadel. This trio recently spearheaded a contemporary reimagining of a classic Gowans and Larsson musical, Man Mark II, for the citadel's 140th anniversary. They share how it all came together and why drama ministry is having a lasting impact on the congregation.
To listen to this podcast, and others, click here.
