Search Results

Kwinana Corps Officer Major Scott Ellery (right) and flagbearer Chantal Tait with the Crombie family after Julian and Kathy were enrolled as senior soldiers. BY ANTHONY CASTLE   It has been an exciting year of ministry for the thriving Kwinana Corps in Western Australia, with 13 enrolments and a soldier being accepted as a candidate for officership.   Corps Officer Major Scott Ellery enrolled 10 adherents in April and three new senior soldiers in two separate ceremonies over the past few weeks.   All this is the result of a flourishing corps that is gaining momentum as it carries out its ministry and service to the community in Perth’s south.   Each week, the Kwinana Corps runs Sunday worship services and Kids Church, as well as community lunches, small groups and craft groups. They also reach out to the community and serve those in need through their Doorways Welfare services, case management, drop-in centre, the Toastie Spot, breakfast program, thrift shop and pubs ministry.   “It is so significant when people make the decision to take on the Soldier’s Covenant,” Scott said. “To the individual, it is a life-transforming step in following God’s leading.”   The newest soldiers at Kwinana are Julian and Kathy Crombie, who were enrolled in September, and Suzie Stan-Bishop, who was enrolled earlier this month.   The Crombies only joined the Kwinana Corps in February, having moved from Tasmania weeks prior.   “We stayed at Kwinana Salvos because we felt welcomed and wanted, and because we had peace that we were right where God wanted us to be,” Kathy says.   “We loved how the minister talked about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, and could see that it was a healthy, joyful church with both good spiritual health and strong engagement with the community.” Major Scott Ellery with Suzie Stan-Bishop, proudly holding her Soldier’s Covenant. Suzie started attending Kwinana Salvos in 2021 and began volunteering in 2022. She volunteers 12 hours a week as the Welfare Coordinator, managing a team of 18 volunteer staff and coordinating the emergency relief, homelessness response, drop-in centre, Toastie Spot, as well as facilitating a weekly small group.   “I encourage my team to be Jesus with skin on,” Suzie says. “I believe there is always hope, and we need to share that hope with the community.”   “A year ago, I was asked to attend a leadership retreat, and it was while I was there that God made it very clear to me that I was to become a soldier.   “I did struggle with the calling as things in my personal life were not lining up, but God gave me the verse Isaiah 40:3. God changed things in my personal life, and there is more to come, and I am excited to see what God has planned for myself and my family.”   Kwinana Corps Ministry Assistant Chantal Tait, who is off to Officer Training College. In other exciting news, the corps’ Ministry Assistant, Chantal Tait, has been accepted as a candidate for officership.   Having been a soldier at Kwinana for some time, Chantal has been on staff in her role for the past year, gaining leadership and management experience.   “Now she will be leaving Kwinana to go into full-time ministry training and engage in a different worshipping community,” Scott said.   “It is so encouraging to see people move from unconnected visitors to passionately engaged members and find greater purpose in their relationship with Christ.”   Adherents and soldiers are vital to The Salvation Army. Everyone is welcome to attend The Salvation Army communities, with some choosing a deeper, more formal commitment by becoming soldiers or adherents.   Adherents are Christians who pledge to support their local Salvation Army corps, identify with the mission of The Salvation Army, and participate in fellowship and service at a local corps. Soldiers of The Salvation Army are Christians who undertake a specific covenant (or promise) regarding lifestyle and beliefs.   “The Soldier’s Covenant is a statement of faith that declares that they will live in a way that reflects the glory of God and serve wherever there is need,” Scott said.   “For the church family, it is so encouraging to see people not only commit to the church family, but it also inspires each of us to greater commitment and deeper love.” The 10 people who were enrolled as adherents of Kwinana Corps back in April when former Chief Secretary Colonel Winsome Merrett (far left) visited.

The team from Paradox Coffee Roasters with the limited edition Christmas Blend that will support The Salvation Army’s work. The Salvation Army is partnering with Paradox Coffee Roasters this Christmas to support those in our community facing hardship.   “This festive season, $4 from every 200g bag and $8 from every 500g bag of our Limited Release Christmas Blend will be donated to The Salvation Army, supporting their critical frontline programs,” a Paradox Coffee representative said.   Purchasing the Christmas Blend will help fund emergency housing, crisis support for women and families, and financial counselling services – providing essential care and relief to individuals and families facing hardship and homelessness.   “The donations will be directed to The Salvation Army Doorways Emergency Relief program, helping provide food, support and care for people in our community experiencing hardship.”   For more information and to purchase the limited-release Berries & Cream Christmas Blend, click here   To go to the Paradox Coffee Roasters website, click here

As we enter day two of the 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-based Violence ,    we share Jessica’s story – a story of finding refuge and support through The Salvation Army after escaping an abusive marriage. Though the effects of violence still remain, Jessica now lives with hope, independence and gratitude for those who helped her heal. Do you know someone affected by domestic and family violence? There are support services that can help you. In an emergency, always contact Triple Zero (000) 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732 The National Family and Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Counselling Service. Women’s FDV Line – 1800 007 339 Hotline for women, with or without children, who are experiencing family and domestic violence (FDV) Men’s FDV Line – 1800 000 559 Hotline for information and referrals for male victim-survivors of FDV or those concerned about violence or abusive behaviour.

Each week throughout 2025, Salvationists around the world are uniting in prayer for a particular territory or region of The Salvation Army.   The focus territory/region shares prayer requests to help us pray with precision and power for one another.   This week ( 24-30 November ), we pray for the Philippines Territory.   The Philippines Territory has 246 officers (149 active, 97 retired); 13 envoys; 11 cadets; 88 corps; 26 outposts; 8659  senior soldiers; 5560 adherents; 947 junior soldiers; 80 employees.   There are 114 faith communities, 13 schools, and 3136 people have been assisted with emergency relief.   The work of the territory includes: ·  Schools and education ·  Community development ·  Social enterprise ·  Modern slavery and human trafficking response Colonels David and Elsa Oalang lead the territory. They have shared the following points to guide us as we pray:   Prayer requests ·    Pray for the recovery of families affected by disasters. During the past months, different areas were devastated by strong typhoons. In fact, there was a time when three typhoons entered the country consecutively. The 6.9. magnitude earthquake in Cebu claimed lives and destroyed properties. ·    Pray for more young people to respond to the call for officership. ·    Pray for the succession plan of the territory – the training of leaders on all levels of ministry is one of the Ten Territorial Priorities. ·    Pray for financial sustainability, that God would bless the territory's business ventures, and that the generous lifestyle program continues to become part of every soldier and officer's spiritual principle. ·    Pray for the implementation of the territorial strategic plan.    To find out more about the Philippines Territory, click here . To find out more about The Salvation Army’s prayer focus, click here .   To download the 2025 International Prayer Focus schedule, click here .

Territorial Commander Commissioner Miriam Gluyas introduces the Keepers of the Covenant (from left) José Porcia, Matthew Pethybridge, Amand Pethybridge, Soonsun Kwon and Jonathan Abdulai. All photos: Greg Donovan BY LERISSE SMITH   It was a Commissioning service to remember – rich with touchpoints, both profound and inspiring.   From a special video appearance by Colonels John and Lani Chamness, to moments of humour, a collective think-tank on making a covenant, and stirring speeches that lifted the soul, the Ordination, Commissioning and Sending Out service for the Keepers of the Covenant at Parramatta Corps on Sunday was a celebration of purpose, passion, and the power of faith.   Being commissioned into full-time service as Salvation Army officers were Cadets Jonathan Abdulai, Soonsun Kwon and José Porcia, and Auxiliary-Lieutenants Amanda and Matthew Pethybridge. The cadets now have the rank of Lieutenant, with the auxiliary-lieutenants assigned the rank of Captain.   Sunday’s poignant occasion filled the room with vibrant worship, deeply personal reflections and testimonies blending humour and emotion, alongside an inspiring think-tank sermon from the newly commissioned officers, led by Commissioner Miriam Gluyas.   Inspirational leadership messages and multimedia presentations also took centre stage, while family and friends filled the auditorium to celebrate their loved ones.   Infusing the event with extra energy, Auburn Corps members invited attendees to a spontaneous dance celebration as part of the vibrant worship.   The cadets and auxiliary-lieutenants with Commissioner Miriam Gluyas on receiving their Commissions and Certificates of Salvation Army Officer Training. (Bottom right) Captain Kylie Herring, Leader of Officer Formation. A highlight of the celebratory occasion was Colonels John and Lani Chamness, who sent video messages of encouragement and support from the United States. (John and Lani are still awaiting their visas to enter Australia before taking up appointments as our new Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Leader Development). John spoke words of encouragement to those being commissioned, while Lani led a special prayer.    “Cadets, welcome to the sacred moment in your journey,” John said.   “A moment that marks your calling to live and proclaim the covenant of our Lord. And so, as you prepare to be ordained as officers, this covenant not made of stone, but of flesh and blood, remember the words of Jeremiah 31:33 … It is to this covenant you are called, one that is not external or temporary, but eternal and transformative.   “The New Covenant is God’s promise to forgive sin and restore fellowship with all who turn their hearts towards him. It is a covenant sealed by the blood of Jesus Christ, our mediator, whose death and resurrection form the foundation of this divine promise.   “In this promise, God reveals a transformation that reshapes the very heart and soul of his people, no longer written on cold stone, his law is now inscribed within us, alive in our hearts, guiding our steps and moulding our character.”   John closed by urging the cadets to live out their renewed calling, trusting they would carry the transforming grace of the New Covenant where God led them.   Jonathan Abdulai and José Porcia were entertaining as they shared their cadetship journeys. Then came another big moment as Jonathan and José stepped onto the platform.   The duo inspired, delighted and entertained the congregation with passionate, stirring speeches reflecting their journeys – the highs, the lows, and the gratitude for all those who walked alongside them.   Tears were shed, too, when contemplating the amazing grace and favour of God and his faithfulness.   “Our journey involved crossing many thresholds, and in those pivotal moments, God sent people to meet us or to lead us,” reflected José.   “When I was lost in addiction, do you know what my mother was doing? She was praying, and this – right here – is what answered prayer looks like.” José and Jonathan share impactful stories of finding faith and belonging in Jesus and the Salvos. José further shared his greatest challenge: something deeply personal.   “There were many mountains that needed to be moved, challenges to conquer,” he remarked.   “But my most difficult challenge, the hardest mountain that needed moving, was the mountain called ‘self’… I was always trying to qualify for the call until I realised that God qualifies the call, and God helped me move that mountain. But I had to bring the shovel. Ministry isn’t strutting around like we’ve earned it. It’s walking humbly, serving faithfully and directing every eye, every heart back to him.”   Laughter echoed through the room as José and Jonathan recounted funny and memorable moments in their journey, including their battles with grammar and vocabulary, since English was not their first language.   For Jonathan, one of his greatest challenges was writing essays, which felt like trying to solve a puzzle that has missing pieces, until a “quick call to the Holy Spirit” guided him through – and grammar!   “This journey that forced me to get to know myself, and part of knowing myself was facing my greatest fear – grammar. Grammar nearly finished me. I nearly lost the battle!”   His individual training officers became a lifeline.   “These blokes were determined to help me improve, and I’m grateful for them. At first, every page of my essays were covered in red ink, like a traffic accident! But over time, the red started to fade. I’m not perfect yet, but at least my essay no longer looks like a crime scene!”   Despite these challenges, cadetship gave Jonathan a story of genuine transformation.   “It has changed the way I see God, others and myself,” he reflected.   “Real leadership is servanthood. It is not about power, but about people. It is not about the size of the chair. It is about how far I am willing to kneel. So, here am I today … someone who is convinced that God has been forming me every single day of my journey. When I hear ‘keepers of the covenant’, I am not the hero here. I am not the one holding it together. I am the witness pointing to the One who never broke his covenant.” Infusing the event with extra energy, Auburn Corps singers invited attendees to a spontaneous dance celebration as part of their vibrant worship. Captain Kylie Herring, Leader of Officer Formation and Senior Training Officer at Eva Burrows College in Melbourne, spoke of her excitement for the momentous occasion.   “Jonathan, José and Soonsun, this is such an exciting day for you and for the cadet formation team as we’ve had the privilege of journeying with you across your period of formation,” she said.   “We stand proudly with you today as you are commissioned and ordained as Salvation Army officers and become our colleagues.”   Over the past two years, the cadets have been located in the New South Wales, ACT and Victoria divisions. Kylie expressed thanks to the divisions, the local corps, social and community expressions, who welcomed the cadets during their placements.   It was back in January 2024 when Kylie shared a reflection on the sessional name at Orientation Week –  Keepers of the Covenant.     She said it was a challenge – not just for the cadets, but for all those who choose to live each day in a deliberate posture of dependence, faithfulness and hopefulness.   “It is no easy task keeping covenant with God, with self and others,” she shared at the service.   “As you commence as officers in The Salvation Army, my prayer is that as  Keepers of the Covenant , you would live each day aware of the Covenant engraved on your heart, that the markers of dependence, hopefulness, faithfulness would ground your identity and be evident in your practice as a minister of the gospel, partnering with God in the beautiful unfolding of Kingdom realities within and without for the sake of others, and even more expansively, for the sake of the world. May God bless and keep you each.”   Major Tracey Davies, Lead Co-ordinator – First Five Years & Auxiliary Lieutenants Programs, spoke of how Matthew and Amanda had served faithfully as Auxiliary-Lieutenants, highlighting the number of different ways officership could take place in The Salvation Army. Major Tracey Davies spoke on behalf of Matthew and Amanda Pethybridge and how they took the path of commissioned officership through being auxiliary-lieutenants. For Matthew and Amanda, their journey to commissioned officership followed the Auxiliary-Lieutenancy pathway, having completed two full three-year terms in a number of appointments in New South Wales, and are now in their third term.   It has been a season of ministry that has allowed them to lead and serve while engaging in learning, development, and formation on the side , Tracey remarked, along with the growth and expansion of a young and vibrant family.   “Matt and Amanda, as each one of us stands here, we are proud to share and to say that we join with you today and enjoy having you in our ranks,” she said.   “My prayer is that you will continue to live out your calling, this covenant that God has made with you each and placed deep within your hearts.”   After the official formalities ended, Miriam assembled the newly commissioned officers on the platform to reflect on what making a covenant meant for them.   For Soonsun, the corps officers at Belmore had played a significant role in her life, setting “a really good example” as a Salvation Army officer.  Most of all, they were praying people: “People like them are setting fire in people’s hearts and their passion for the Lord really inspires me a lot.”   For Amanda, the covenant was about making sure that she surrendered to the Holy Spirit – being obedient to him and listening to him.    “I’m so grateful for the gift of the Holy Spirit,” she emphasised. “The transformational work it’s done for my life, and so I’m not going to stop advocating for what the Holy Spirit can do.”   Matthew also shared the significance of the covenant for him. Families and friends of the cadets and auxiliary-lieutenants share the platform wit their loved ones. “The covenant comes from him,” he said. “It doesn’t require anything of me. And I think that’s a beautiful picture that I’m just invited to come and sit at his table. It’s a covenant of relationship, not a covenant of doing.”   Miriam said she had every confidence the newly commissioned officers would keep their covenants.   And she concluded the discussion with an impassioned plea.   “We are all keepers of the covenant. I would want everyone to make a covenant with our beautiful God today. Is God still calling people? Absolutely!” she remarked.   “I think Jesus wants to soften the heart of The Salvation Army right now – to see again who he called us to be.” Click through the slideshow below for more photos of the Commissioning, Ordination and Sending Out ceremony at Parramatta Corps on Sunday 23 November:

Digital violence against women and girls is one of the fastest-growing forms of abuse, writes Fay Foster. BY FAY FOSTER The annual United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women   takes place today, on 25 November. Violence against women and girls remains one of the most prevalent and pervasive human rights violations in the world. Globally, almost one in three women have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both, at least once in their life.  Violence against women and girls (VAWG) remains largely unreported due to the impunity, silence, stigma and shame surrounding it.  It can manifest in physical, sexual and psychological forms, including:  Intimate partner violence (battering, psychological abuse, marital rape, femicide);  Sexual violence and harassment (rape, forced sexual acts, unwanted sexual advances, child sexual abuse, forced marriage, stalking, cyber-harassment);  Human trafficking (slavery, sexual exploitation);  Female genital mutilation; and  Child marriage.  For at least 51,100 women globally in 2023, gender-based violence ended with one final and brutal act – their murder by partners and family members ( news.un.org ). That means a woman was killed every 10 minutes.  The solution lies in robust responses, holding perpetrators accountable, and accelerating action through well-resourced national strategies and increased funding to women’s rights movements.  Join 16 Days of Activism   From today until 10 December 2025, the 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-based Violence   campaign will focus on the theme: ‘UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls’.  Digital violence against women and girls is one of the fastest-growing forms of abuse.  Did you know?   Globally, an estimated 736 million women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence. One   in four adolescent girls is abused by their partners .  16% to 58% of women globally experience technology-facilitated gender-based violence . Generation Z and Millennials are the most affected.  70% of women in conflict, war and humanitarian crises experience gender-based violence.  See here for ways you can participate in the 16 Days initiative: 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Violence 2025 | November 25, 2025 | Awareness Days Men as forces for positive change Marcus Tawfik is The Salvation Army’s Senior Manager for Practice and Development in the Family and Domestic Violence (FDV) team. In this piece to kick off the 16 Days of Activism, Marcus discusses with colleague Lilly McKeich how men can be an active part of addressing negative attitudes or patterns of treating women. To find out more about The Salvation Army’s FDV work, see here . Prayer guide The Salvation Army has prepared a prayer guide to use on each of the 16 days. We hope it encourages you to bring your concerns to God, and gain wisdom as we all seek to address this ongoing, deadly issue of gender-based violence. To read it, see here .

Learning to share power, not just offer support is key for Marcus Tawfik. Image: Getty Interview with MARCUS TAWFIK, TSA Senior Manager Practice and Development, interviewed by LILLY MCKEICH, National Family Violence Specialist. With the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence starting today with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, we are hearing Marcus' perspective on the role of men in this important work. What does it mean to be a true ally in the gender equality movement? Can you talk about a time when you got it wrong as an ally, and what you learned from that experience?   I think for me, it's about showing up consistently rather than when it's convenient or comfortable. A key dedication toward this is to listen deeply to ensure supporting women's voices to be heard and challenge systems that do not support women.  I have always thought of myself as an ally, but I always am actively learning and changing to become a better one. I haven't always got it right. In my early days of allyship, something I always did was to ensure everyone, including women, were heard;  when I started to decentre myself and prioritise the impact of women’s voices, I really started to make steps and strides forward in being an ally for the gender equality movement.  A key message here is that allyship is a practice. It is something that myself and the community that calls themselves allies are continuing to reflect, by enacting change through feedback, and we try to have a genuine willingness to sit with discomfort.   How do you navigate the balance between using your voice and making space for others, especially women, in advocacy work?   Well, the facts are, men are heard differently, and we need to acknowledge that as men. I believe this comes with a responsibility … We need to be using our voice to create safer spaces, challenge other men who may be on a different part of their journey in allyship and to redirect attention, rather than holding the attention ourselves.   Something we do in the family and domestic violence space, and in the social services space in general, is to receive consultation from people with lived experience. I think similar principles need to be applied through our allyship – whether its listening in our relationships, how we behave as men in public, or even how we co-design and consult alongside the women we work with.  Something that has significantly resonated with me is how I have learned to share power and not just offer support. The 16 Days of Activism [against Gender-Based Violence] is a time to reflect on what advocacy means, and I believe it is not just about lending influence: it's about redistributing influence! That is one of the core responsibilities men hold through how our voices are heard differently.      What do you see as the most powerful things men can do to support the gender equality movement? How do you approach having difficult conversations with male peers around sexism, harmful behaviours or gendered violence?   We need to be encouraging men to do the internal work by reflecting on their own biases and anything throughout their lives that may have conditioned or contributed to those biases.  Ensuring that there is self-education, rather than relying on women to do that labour and thinking for us men, is vital here. There is a big difference between saying the right thing and doing the hard thing – and large shifts and progression in allyship often comes from doing the hard things.  We need to be approaching family, friends and all the men in our networks with curiosity and respect, not shame. I have used a question like, “Have you thought about how that might come across?” in a way that requires thinking with no shame. When I am supporting allies to continue their journey, I ask powerful questions like “Who benefits when men stay silent?” or “If your daughter, partner or mother was in the room, would you still say that?”  Marcus Tawfik. Image: Supplied I continually demonstrate that vulnerability is strength, particularly when I'm engaging men. I openly share the mistakes I have made through my journey of allyship to normalise learning the concept of growth as an ally. I have found that modelling the behaviour myself invites others to reflect on their allyship and change to do better.       If you could say one thing to men who want to help but feel unsure of where to start, what would it be? What’s the hardest, but most necessary, truth men need to face when it comes to their role in gender inequality? What does true solidarity with women and survivors look like to you?   Here is the truth, men benefit from the same systems that disadvantage women; even if we don't mean to, we do. We need to remember that silence equals complicity, so good intentions aren't enough when it comes to our role in gender inequality – we have a much larger responsibility here.  It all starts with listening. We need to learn to sit with discomfort instead of rushing to have an exchange or fix or explain. One thing in my experience is that solidarity means risk. Yes, it does mean challenging the people that we may have had a relationship [with] our whole lives, like a brother or a friend or leaders within our networks. It is uncomfortable and unpopular, but it is the right thing to do.  True solidarity with women and survivors looks like advocating for systems to change, even if that system benefits us as men. We need to always ensure that we centre the voices and the needs of those who are most impacted by gender-based violence.  To find out more about the 16 Days of Activism and access resources, see here .

Hundreds of young people have attended vibrant Salvos youth camps around Australia over the past few months. BY ANTHONY CASTLE   Hundreds of young people gathered all around Australia from July to October for Salvation Army State Youth Camps.   The youth camps are a chance for teenagers to celebrate, make friends, and strengthen their faith alongside young people from across their states.   “State Youth Camps have been an incredible experience this year,” said Aux-Lieut Mel Purcell, leader of the National Youth and Young Adults Team. Aux-Lieut Mel Purcell says there is greater unity across youth ministries and leaders. “We are seeing greater unity across our youth ministries and leaders, as young people and leaders come together with shared purpose and energy.”   Youth camps are always popular among young Salvos from the states and territories, as well as young adults and leaders representing local corps. And many young people find Jesus at these camps and begin a lifelong journey of faith.   State Youth Camps and the number of young people attending were held in the following states:   South East Queensland: Mount Tamborine, June (83 young people). North Queensland: Townsville, September (29 young people). New South Wales: Collaroy Centre (Sydney), September (266 young people). Victoria: Phillip Island Adventure Resort, September (105 young people). Western Australia: Em Halliday Recreation Camp (North Perth), October (50 young people). South Australia: Mylor Adventure Camp (south-east of Adelaide), October (80 young people).   Several young leaders said the camps were a fantastic way to introduce young people to Jesus and strengthen young Christian lives.   Claire Castley, Youth and Young Adults Secretary, Western Australia, said: “Young people had opportunities to hear about the Good News of Jesus and apply what they have learnt creatively through their streams, making action plans in Life Labs, and praying in their Corps groups on the last night of camp. We had three young people attend from Karratha (remote north-west WA). We also had young people come to camp from Kalgoorlie, Bunbury and Perth. It was great to see a mix of young people and leaders coming together from across WA.”   Sarah Walker , Youth and Young Adults Secretary (NSW), said: “Over the week, young people were invited into relationship with Jesus, reminded that they are accepted and loved, and that they have something to contribute in building the Kingdom of God.”   Leisa Humbley , Youth and Young Adults Secretary (Queensland), said: “Young adults who attended this year were exceptional, leading and influencing the younger generations in positive ways and also supporting the leadership team beyond what was expected. Some of our young adults led our worship times and ran workshops.”   Mel Purcell, leader of the National Youth and Young Adults Team, said it was also pleasing to see a growth in the number of young leaders.   “This year, we have witnessed a significant increase in emerging leaders eager to serve. With the introduction of SYU (Salvos Youth United) music, young people are connecting in more deeply to the life and mission of our ministry. It’s inspiring to see them engage, lead, and grow, building a strong foundation for the next generation.”   Click through the slideshow below for more photos:

Maz (centre) on the day she was enrolled as a senior soldier, alongside Peter and Sally Hall, the Gunnedah Corps and Community Leaders. BY LAUREN MARTIN   Several years ago, after trying numerous churches and seeking God’s will for her life, Maz found herself in the outback of New South Wales, gazing at an eagle. Suddenly, she had a vision of God sitting on a throne. He said to her, “Be still, and know that I am God.”   “But me, being me, I couldn’t do that,” Maz said, years later. “My job was disappearing, I knew that. I was worrying about what I was going to do and where I was going to go … I tried to sort it out on my own.”   When she looked up to the sky again, the vision had disappeared.   Fast forward a few years, and then 69-year-old Maz was living in Gunnedah, in the north-west of the state, with her partner, preparing his house for an imminent flood.   “This fella turned up at the door and offered to see if we needed help moving furniture. He was amazing!   “It turned out it was Peter.” Maz behind the counter at the local Salvos Store where she volunteers a few times a week. The Peter she was referring to is the Gunnedah Corps and Community Leader, Peter Hall. He mentioned to Maz that he was from The Salvation Army, just down the road, and she began asking questions – “because I’d never been to a Salvation Army church before.”   A few weeks later, Maz and her partner went along to a Sunday meeting to check it out.   They enjoyed the people ... and the coffee! So, they stayed, and they have become regular attendees.   Maz remembered that as she walked into the corps building on that first Sunday, she noticed a sign with the Bible verse “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46). She told Peter, “That’s my favourite verse!”   About a year later, a visiting preacher was delivering the sermon when Maz had another significant spiritual experience: “It was like someone slapped me in the face,” she remembered. “I sat there and thought, ‘Oh, this is interesting.’”   Her partner had felt something too, but as they discussed it back at home, they had different opinions about what God was trying to tell them. While Maz continued to pursue what God was calling her into, they drifted apart.   “From the moment I heard that sermon, I was at total peace,” she said. “It was the first time in my life I felt totally at peace, and I thought, ‘I need to be still.” The key difference this time was that she didn’t fight God’s command for her to ‘be still, and know that I am God,’ and the peace remained with her. Maz became a Salvation Army soldier last year. She works as a casual employee for the Gunnedah Salvos Store and volunteers 2-3 days a week at the corps. She says her life has changed “hugely” and she has never been happier. Gunnedah Corps leader Peter Hall enrols Maz as a Salvation Army senior soldier in 2024. “The peace I feel now is a result of me following what God wants me to do,” she said. “I feel like I have a reason to be here [on this earth]. I love everyone in the church. I just feel like this is where I’m supposed to be.”   Maz says joining the Gunnedah Salvos weekly Bible study has been one of the biggest steps forward with her faith.   “I’m loving how much I’m learning. I’ve learned more about the Bible and God since I’ve been here than I ever had before.   “We have great discussions and things just click a bit more with Bible study instead of just reading it on your own. Peter and Sally have been an immense help in my walk with God.”   Please keep Maz and the whole of Gunnedah Salvos in your prayers as they journey deeper with God and each other.

The 2025 Keepers of the Covenant  (back row from left) Cadet Jonathan Abdulai, Cadet Soonsun Kwon, Cadet José Porcia (front row from left) Aux-Lieut David Dobbie, Aux-Lieut Belinda Dobbie, Aux-Lieut Amanda Pethybridge and Aux-Lieut Matthew Pethybridge. BY LERISSE SMITH The Ordination, Commissioning and Sending Out of cadets stands as a pinnacle moment for The Salvation Army – a celebration of faith, service and commitment. But before the public ceremonies and celebrations take place, there is a sacred occasion few ever witness – Covenant Day – a deeply personal moment that carries profound meaning for the cadets as they take their first solemn step toward a lifelong calling. It’s the sacred occasion that precedes ordination and commissioning in the process of becoming a commissioned officer with The Salvation Army. “Covenant Day is a sacred occasion when each cadet signs their Officers Covenant before God,” said Kylie Herring, Leader of Officer Formation at Eva Burrows College. “In this moment, cadets are making a sacred agreement with God – they are accepting God’s call on their life, they are accepting a life of sacred service as a minister of the gospel in The Salvation Army.” In the week leading into Covenant Day, the Territorial Commander (TC) meets with the cadets being commissioned to talk through the Officer Undertakings so they are fully aware of what they are agreeing to, and the spiritual nature of the relationship between them and The Salvation Army. The Officer Undertakings must be signed by each cadet prior to Covenant Day. Cadet José Porcia took a quick snap as Territorial Commander Commissioner Miriam Gluyas and Officer Formation Leader Captain Kylie Herring (red cardigan) met on Thursday with five of the seven Salvationists being commissioned on Sunday. Yesterday (Friday 21 November), those being commissioned – cadets Jonathan Abdulai, Jose Porcia, Soonsun Kwon and Auxiliary-Lieutenants Amanda and Matthew Pethybridge, as well as Auxiliary-Lieutenants Belinda and David Dobbie (joining online from Mackay, Qld) – entered into a day of spiritual retreat, where the significance of call and covenant was prayerfully considered. Covenant Day this year takes place today (Saturday 22 November) at The Salvation Army’s Stanmore House in Sydney. Those being commissioned gather with ongoing cadets, the Officer Formation staff, significant spiritual mentors and senior leaders in The Salvation Army. “It’s a very intimate, sacred and reflective space,” Kylie explained. “The cadets make their covenant declarations and are invited to sign their covenant, which the Territorial Commander and the Leader of Officer Formation witness. Following the service, we share a meal together, then depart to prepare for the next events.” The cadets and auxiliary-lieutenants sign their covenants as significant people in their lives stand behind them. To be ordained and commissioned as a Salvation Army Officer, the following covenant is made: Called by God to proclaim the Gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ as an officer of The Salvation Army, I bind myself to Him in this solemn Covenant: To love, trust and serve him supremely all my days; To live to win souls and make their salvation the first purpose of my life; To care for the poor, feed the hungry, clothe the naked, love the unloved, and befriend those who have no friends; To maintain the doctrines and principles of The Salvation Army, and, by God’s grace, to prove myself a worthy officer. After ordination, the newly commissioned officers participate in a five-year development program. They gather with their fellow officers for peer support and to reflect on their journey at the end of their first, third and fifth years. There are specific professional development requirements to be completed within five years, and if those are fulfilled, they will be promoted from Lieutenant to Captain.  Ongoing professional pastoral supervision is a requirement for officers and provides important support to new officers, offering a regular opportunity to debrief, discuss challenges and joys, and review how they are integrating their learning with their ministry practice. There are many challenges facing the newly commissioned officers. Auxiliary-Lieutenants Amanda and Matthew Pethybridge (centre) with (from left) Major Brendan Young, Major Kim Haworth, Commissioner Miriam Gluyas and Captain Sally Stevens on Covenant Day. Kylie remarked that one of them was getting their heads around all the systems of The Salvation Army, the procedures, processes and responsibilities of their appointment. “Corps officership is challenging because of the multiple accountabilities that come with the role,” she said. “You are responsible for leading and developing a faith community and helping them grow, equipping leaders and mentoring emerging leaders, assisting community members needing emergency relief, oversighting community programs, developing relationships and partnerships in the local community, line-managing staff, oversighting volunteers, managing a budget, keeping buildings and premises in good shape and managing the risk and compliance landscape. Captain Kylie Herring, Leader of Officer Formation, with Cadet Soonsun Kwon. “There are more things that could be added to the list, but you can see in that list the scope of responsibility and accountability. There is a lot of complexity to navigate in holding all those pieces and learning how all those pieces fit into the flow of a week, month, or year in that location.” And when it comes to the greatest joy, her answer is immediate. “The affirmation they receive on their commissioning,” Kylie said. “That The Salvation Army is saying to each of them – we believe in you! We recognise you as a minister of the gospel – go and live your calling.” Click through the slideshow below for more photos of Covenant Day:

1. What is your current appointment, and what do you find most satisfying about it? I am currently the Corps Officer at Carrum Downs Corps, located in a suburb in the southeast of Melbourne, within the City of Frankston. This is my second appointment, following eight years of ministry at Dandenong Corps.   What I find most satisfying is witnessing lives transformed. When people walk through the doors of Carrum Downs Corps seeking help, it’s a blessing to see them leave changed – not the same as they came in. In moments like these, we see the mission of The Salvation Army truly come alive.   It’s also deeply encouraging to see our networks grow stronger – whether with local councils, schools, community organisations, or other Salvation Army expressions in the area. Together, we’re making a real impact in people’s lives.   2. Away from the appointment – if that’s possible! – what do you do to relax or unwind? I find rest and renewal in solitude; getting away from the noise and busyness of the day helps me to unwind. I enjoy listening to gospel music or going for a peaceful walk.   Spending quality time with my children is also very important to me – they are my world and my greatest blessings. I also cherish catching up with friends over a coffee, as well as connecting with my extended family, including my siblings, nieces and nephews. These moments of joy, laughter, and love fill my cup and keep me grounded.   3. What’s a favourite Christian song, and why do you like it? This is a hard question for me because I’m a worshipper. I love all gospel music, from contemporary to hymns. Singing and listening to worship songs is how I encounter God on a deep level. Those moments are sacred and priceless to me! During those times of worship, I often wish the music would never stop. Those moments are truly priceless to me.   But if I had to choose one song, it would be Agnus Dei by Michael W. Smith. Every time I listen to or sing this song, I feel the Holy Spirit pouring over me. It renews my spirit and affirms God’s presence in my life. The repeated words, ‘Alleluia, Alleluia’, lift my soul. They remind me of the majesty and holiness of God. It’s hard to fully explain the experience because worship is so personal, but for me, this song opens the door to a sacred encounter with God.   4. If you could have a good talk with a biblical character apart from Jesus, who would it be and what would you talk about? If I could sit down and have a conversation with any biblical character (besides Jesus), I would choose John the Baptist. While many people relate to Peter – and I do too, especially in his moments of boldness and doubt – I feel especially drawn to John the Baptist, Jesus’s cousin and the one who prepared the way for the Lord. His boldness, humility and unwavering focus on pointing people to Christ deeply inspire me.   Our conversation would be about discipleship, which is one of my greatest passions. I would love to hear how he remained so focused on his calling, even when it wasn’t easy, even when he was misunderstood or alone, and how he faithfully continued to share the good news, knowing that his mission was to prepare hearts for Jesus, and how he remained so grounded in his identity and purpose. And of course, I would ask what it felt like to baptise Jesus Himself – what a humbling and holy significance that must have been. As a Salvation Army officer, I feel a deep sense of calling to do the same: to share the good news of Jesus and to walk alongside people as they are transformed, equipped, inspired, and encouraged in their faith. It brings me such joy to see lives changed by God’s love. Every person God brings into our lives is an opportunity to reflect His light and help others take steps closer to Him. That, to me, is a true privilege and blessing. 5. If you were talking to a group of Salvationists and they asked if you recommended officership or not, what would you say? Yes, I would absolutely recommend officership – but only if God has called you. Officership is not just a role or a job; it is a sacred calling. And if you sense that God is inviting you into this ministry, I would wholeheartedly encourage you to accept that invitation with faith and courage.   Each of us has a unique purpose. We were created to worship God and to serve Him with all that we are, wherever He places us. Officership is one of the many ways we can do that, using the gifts, skills and talents God has given us to bless and impact the lives of others. Being an officer has stretched me, shaped me and drawn me closer to God. It has given me the privilege of walking alongside people in their most vulnerable moments, sharing the hope of Jesus and seeing lives transformed by His love. Officership isn’t always easy, but it is deeply fulfilling. If you feel the nudge of God calling you into this life of full-time ministry, trust Him. He will equip you, sustain you, and use you in ways you could never imagine.

From: Rouse Hill Region Corps (NSW) Appointment: Corps Officer/Team Leader at Rouse Hill Corps (NSW) Silver Star recipients : Commissioners Cheralynne and Kelvin Pethybridge I have much to be grateful for in my life story. Growing up with faith and ministry modelled from an early age, the presence of God was never seen to be absent, and knowledge of God was always familiar.   Giving my time and skills to serve within the church was never a difficult question, and I developed a strong sense of usefulness within the church. In fact, through many seasons of serving, it became an appealing substitute for the deep, foundational work of developing intimacy with Jesus. So, for many years, I walked near him, but not always with him.    But God always wanted more. And he was patient. He waited for me to learn the hard way the lesson that the character I had formed was not his. He began rebuilding me – showing me that a life lived being busy near him could never sustain me as deeply or form me as fully as a life lived in close friendship with him.    Since then, my journey has not necessarily been one of getting to know God more, but of drawing close to let him in to know me and then allowing him to form me into who he always intended me to be – satisfied in him, serving from the overflow of intimacy, and letting him lead.    Nine years ago, God led me back into service from this deeper place, initially as an auxiliary lieutenant and now as a commissioned officer.   I believe that pursuing service or officership was never his goal, but being led by the Spirit to walk closely with Jesus, to surrender in partnered service for a lifetime, to love the church Jesus loves, and to seek life transformation in the communities they inhabit.   Bible verse: “So guard yourself and God’s people. Feed and shepherd God’s flock – His church, purchased with His own blood – over which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as a leader” (Acts 20:28 NLT).