Webbs step up a rank – international briefs for 8 May
- simoneworthing
- May 8
- 4 min read
Updated: May 8
BY SIMONE WORTHING AND KIRRALEE NICOLLE
Colonels Geoff and Kalie Webb, officers of the Australia Territory, currently serving as Territorial Leaders in the Kenya West Territory, were promoted to the rank of commissioner this week.
The Webbs took up leadership of the Kenya West Territory in February 2024, Geoff as Territorial Commander and Kalie as Territorial President of Women’s Ministries.
They were previously based at International Headquarters in London. Geoff served as Executive Secretary to the General, while Kalie held two roles – as Under Secretary for the South Asia Zone and as Director for SASIA SALT Learning Centre.
The couple have vast international experience, having served in four of the five Salvation Army zones around the world.
To read an in-depth interview with the Webbs by Salvos Online journalist Kirralee Nicolle in 2024, click here
Corps continue to serve in wartime Ukraine
As Russia’s war in Ukraine continues into its fourth year, Salvation Army corps around the country continue their ministry with local communities and the many internally displaced people fleeing the fighting.
Youth and children are a major focus in Ukraine as leaders and volunteers try to give the young people as normal a life as possible in a warzone. Over the past couple of months as the (northern) summer approaches, corps have led more activities outside. The Kyiv Mayak (Lighthouse) Corps recently ran a summer camp for children who previously had no connection with The Salvation Army. Bible studies were a part of the activities which also included sport, craft and a campout. Regular Sunday school and youth groups continue each week.
Older teenagers learned about CPR and the importance of first aid skills, while another group attended a workshop about difficult relationships.
Material and psychological aid is also distributed to the many who need it. In Vinnytsia, the corps has partnered with the Department of Social Policy in the city to Vinnytsia, corps leaders work to help those overwhelmed by the difficulties of war, giving them hope to go on and the assurance that they are not alone.
UK charity shops respond to human trafficking survivors
The Salvation Army’s UK charity shops are assisting survivors of modern slavery, as part of the Army’s Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Response.
In addition to donating vouchers to survivors to give them dignity in choosing their own clothing and other needs, the stores arrange private sessions for survivors to try on and choose clothing without fear. The stores also offer volunteer and work experience to help boost confidence and social skills to prepare for long-term employment.
The stores also partner with artists and other parts of The Salvation Army to continue raising awareness of human trafficking and slavery issues.
To find out more about The Salvation Army International’s responses to modern slavery and human trafficking, click here
Children enjoy Big Adventure 2025
Also in the UK, Salvationists in the East of England Division hosted Big Adventure 2025, a weekend camp for children aged 8 to 14 held at Hilltop Outdoor Centre in Sheringham.
The outdoor-focused event brings children together with leaders from across the division to participate in adventure sports, build friendships and learn about Jesus.
The team described the event on Facebook as a “blessing and privilege” to serve and participate in.
“We’ve loved journeying and adventuring with this amazing group of young people as they have stepped out of their comfort zones, been brave, trusted, and conquered fears,” they wrote. “It’s been a joy watching them form new friendships, learn more about the brilliant people they are and find out more about what it means to trust God.”
Canadian Salvationists assist in search for missing children
With Nova Scotian children Lily (6) and Jack (4) Sullivan having disappeared from their house last Friday, search and rescue teams have been scouring the Pictou County region within the small Canadian province using drones and helicopters.
The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services team has been on the ground, assisting more than 100 personnel involved in the search with meals, water and pastoral care.
Source: The Salvation Army Maritimes - Atlantic Division Facebook page.
“We remain committed to supporting the community throughout this challenging time and extend our gratitude to all those involved in the search efforts,” The Salvation Army Maritimes – Atlantic Division said on their Facebook page.
“The Salvation Army extends our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to their family and the entire community during this deeply difficult time.”
NZ Thai community responds to Myanmar appeal
Commissioner Janine Donaldson, Territorial Commander of the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory, recently met Royal Thai Embassy staff and members of the Thai community, including Mr Supphawut Supanun, Chairman of The Wellington’s Thai Community, New Zealand, at the embassy.
“The Thai community generously raised $10,200 in support of our Earthquake Appeal for Myanmar and Thailand,” she said. “Their kindness and compassion were deeply moving, and we are incredibly grateful for their support. We look forward to continuing this relationship and partnering together on future initiatives that make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”
