BY AUXILIARY-LIEUTENANT ROSY KEANE   International Women’s Day tomorrow gives us an opportunity to pause and reflect on the invaluable contributions of women, while acknowledging the challenges they face that hinder their safety and success.   Let us recognise Karen Kylleso, the 21-year-old Norwegian who, in January, became the youngest person to reach the South Pole solo and unassisted. Despite being lighter and shorter than most men, standing at five feet and weighing 48kg, Karen gained 10 per cent of her body weight to ensure she could pull a 100kg sled across 1130km – roughly the distance between Adelaide and Canberra – in 54 days.   We must also recognise Gisèle Pelicot, the Frenchwoman who became a global icon after waiving her right to anonymity in a mass rape trial against her ex-husband and 49 other men. She stated, “Shame must switch sides”, from herself to the perpetrators, offering hope to future victim-survivors. France’s Institute of Public Policies revealed that from 20122021, 94 per cent of rape cases were either not prosecuted or never brought to trial.   Limited progress While the world has made strides, the vulnerability of women in systems that fail to support their flourishing continues. In healthcare in 2025, there is a concerning increase in maternal complications and deaths, many stemming from fear of legal repercussions in the US or misdiagnosis due to insufficient women’s healthcare research. Poverty, intimate partner violence, and the climate crisis disproportionately impact women. The United Nations Global Report on Trafficking in Persons estimates that 79 per cent of all modern-day slavery and trafficking involves the sexual exploitation of women and girls.   Lessons from history Reflecting on history, we observe that women have long faced violence and oppression. In the Bible, 1 Samuel chapter 25, Abigail, who is married to a cruel and hateful man, intervenes to protect their village from King David’s wrath. Her wisdom and bravery save herself and her servants, while her husband’s heart ‘turned to stone’.   Embracing risk We can find inspiration in turning to Mary, the mother of Jesus. When she agreed to bear the Messiah, she risked divorce from her fiancé, Joseph, potential religious execution for being an unmarried, pregnant woman, and the dangers of childbirth. Yet, she embraced this risk in obedience to God, making her a true hero.   “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38).   May we all be as brave! Mary’s relative Elizabeth faced judgment throughout her life for being childless. We pause here to acknowledge women who still face judgment and criticism regarding their choices or abilities concerning childbearing and rearing. We also thank God for the faithfulness of Elizabeth and Mary and the crucial role they played in bringing the Good News to earth: Elizabeth experienced the miracle of becoming pregnant ‘in her advanced years’ with John the Baptist, and Mary was the virgin who gave birth to Jesus the Messiah.   The mutual support they offered during pregnancy must have provided profound consolation after the loss of their sons in adulthood, with Jesus dying for our sins on a cross and John the Baptist being killed for his prophetic voice regarding the will and way of Jesus.   Healing power Women’s stories are foundational to the spiritual and emotional fabric of communities. Their prayers, presence, and contributions are crucial to healing the world. So, as we celebrate women’s achievements and recognise the struggles they continue to face, let us join in praying for them.

The Salvation Army’s Cyclone Alfred Appeal is aiming to raise $5 million. The Salvation Army is launching an appeal today to support those who will be severely impacted by Cyclone Alfred, which is expected to hit South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales later today or early tomorrow morning.   The Cyclone Alfred Appeal seeks to raise $5 million to provide direct support for the estimated hundreds of thousands of people likely to be affected.   The Salvation Army is immediately releasing $600,000 from Red Shield Appeal funds, along with an additional $400,000 already pledged by Woolworths and the NAB Foundation.   “As we prepare for the potential impact of Cyclone Alfred in the coming days, I want to acknowledge the significant effect this event is already having on our communities,” said Chief Secretary Colonel Winsome Merrett. “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected, and I am deeply grateful for the unwavering dedication and compassion our teams continue to show during this challenging time.”   The Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) have teams stationed at nine evacuation centres across South East Queensland and Northern NSW, offering meals and additional support. More SAES teams are on standby, prepared to be deployed to provide emergency relief at evacuation centres throughout the region, collaborating closely with the Queensland and NSW state governments.   “Our teams will be offering hearty meals, refreshments, psychological first aid and pastoral care to first responders and residents displaced by the cyclone,” Winsome said.   “Local corps officers and personnel are also actively engaged, bolstering our emergency response efforts. Furthermore, our local Salvos, deeply integrated within the communities they serve, are standing alongside those affected, providing practical assistance and reassurance as they navigate this difficult time.”   The aftermath of Cyclone Alfred is anticipated to have lasting effects, which means The Salvation Army will adopt its three-phased approach to responding to natural disasters.   This starts with the Emergency Relief phase, where SAES teams and local Salvos provide meals and emotional support to those affected.   As the cyclone dissipates and the true extent of the devastation and loss becomes clear, The Salvation Army’s Recovery teams will transition into the Early Recovery phase, providing grants and emotional support to those in need.   This assistance extends into the Long-Term Recovery phase, as the Salvos work alongside communities until they rebuild and regain their footing.     To donate to The Salvation Army’s Cyclone Alfred Appeal, click here . You can also donate at Woolworths, both in-store and online.

To read the Pastoral Letter from Commissioner Miriam Gluyas, click here

This World Day of Prayer, Chief Secretary Colonel Winsome Merrett reflects on Psalm 139 and reminds us that God has created each one of us with “great attention and loving care”. May this deep truth impact the way we live and the way we treat other people.

To read the International Appointment Changes Bulletin, click here

Major Bindy Lupis, SAES National Response Manager, says the Salvos are ‘working to be in the best position possible to support the community’. (Background image courtesy of ABC Online news. Original source: Bureau of Meteorology) BY SIMONE WORTHING In Queensland   Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) teams are on site as Tropical Cyclone Alfred continues its path to reach landfall between the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast.   Heavy rain and destructive winds are already wreaking havoc in the Gold Coast and Northern NSW regions as the cyclone approaches the coast, expecting to hit on late Friday or early Saturday morning.   The impact of this category two system is expected to be felt from Double Island Point in Queensland down to Grafton in NSW and as far west as Toowoomba.   “We are working to be in the best position possible to support the community without yet knowing exactly how hard and where Cyclone Alfred will hit. Preparedness is key, especially as the situation on the ground keeps evolving and changing,” said Major Bindy Lupis, National Response Manager, SAES. Mike West (left) and Adam Cole stocking up on supplies for emergency services crews in South East Queensland. New South Wales Norm Archer, the SAES Response Coordinator for NSW/ACT, is in the Northern Rivers town of Ballina with a team of seven volunteers, an SAES truck, and additional resources for the preparations.   “Again, we wanted to be close, to be ready, before we actually know where the need will be and where we will be deployed,” said Bindy.   In the flood-stricken town of Lismore, the Lismore Corps and SAES teams are already providing support at the evacuation centre located at Southern Cross University, utilising their truck and mobile cool room.   Three evacuation centres are open in Tweed Heads, near the Queensland border. Majors John and Nicole Viles, Tweed Heads Corps Officers, along with their team, are working at these evacuation centres located in clubs and other facilities where on-site kitchens can provide meals for those seeking shelter.   “We also have teams in Sydney on standby, ready to go as soon as it is safe to do so in the coming days,” said Bindy. “This is an essential part of our preparedness.”   Queensland Adam Cole, the SAES Response Coordinator South and Central Queensland, has been joined by colleagues Carolyn Spratling and Michael West (SAES Response Coordinators for Victoria and Tasmania, respectively) to oversee SAES operations primarily in Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast.   They are currently shopping and preparing pre-packed food parcels and other items to be used as needed in the coming days.   In Brisbane, the SAES is on standby for a refuge centre –a place for people to shelter without catering or additional services – for if and when it becomes an evacuation centre where catering and services will be provided.   The Gold Coast team is catering at an evacuation centre in Runaway Bay, northern Gold Coast.   On the Sunshine Coast, SAES teams began catering at an evacuation centre in Nambour yesterday, and the Caloundra team is on standby to assist there today.   “We may be asked to assist in other local council areas,” said Bindy. “We will look into how we may be able to support some areas, but for now, the safety of our volunteers is of priority as the cyclone bears down.”   Recovery plans Recovery services may begin as early as Monday 10 March.   Angela Aitken, the SAES Recovery Coordinator who has just returned from a month of leading recovery services in Townsville, will oversee this process in QLD.   She is currently securing her home on the Sunshine Coast as Cyclone Alfred rapidly approaches. Major Bev Kingston, the SAES Recovery Coordinator for NSW, will oversee the recovery program in NSW.

Melbourne Staff Band’s new bandmaster Mark Hamilton with Territorial Commander Commissioner Miriam Gluyas at the commissioning service at Box Hill. BY BARRY GITTINS An estimated 250 people attended the commissioning of Melbourne Staff Bandmaster Mark Hamilton – the 11th person to lead the group – at Box Hill Corps on Sunday afternoon, 2 March 2025. The ceremony was also live-streamed. “It’s a new day,” Commissioner Miriam Gluyas told Salvos Online before the meeting commenced. Declaring the MSB’s new leader to be a Jesus-centred, Spirit-led man, the Territorial Commander added that “this is the next phase, in leading people forward and leading them to Jesus. He will be a great mentor and leader.” Commissioner Miriam Gluyas congratulates Mark Hamilton after being commissioned as the new Melbourne Staff Bandmaster. Major Matt Reeve echoed those sentiments, viewing Mark as the right person for the role, and described the MSB as a group ready to “engage with all facets of The Salvation Army, encouraging, uplifting and transforming people’s lives”. So, no pressure, but there is a fair bit riding on the direction and choices Mark makes as far as expectations go. The new bandmaster’s first musical choice was Paul Sharman’s ‘My God and King!’, which featured tight, elegant sectional work from the cornets. This was immediately followed by a restrained, masterful rendition of Sam Creamer’s ‘Hold That Fort!’ Mark Hamilton conducts the Melbourne Staff Band for their first offering of the night, ‘My God and King!’ Photo: Daniela Dekker Matt’s flurry of welcomes to dignitaries and officers included retired MSB leaders Ken Waterworth and Colin Woods, before noting the occasion’s top priority: “We want to worship.” To that end, he prayed that those present and online would have open minds, hearts and hands. With this in mind, the MSB joined its worship ensemble and singers to lead the congregation in ‘Our Redeemer’. The harmonies swelled, and people smiled; there was a lot of love in the room – for Jesus, for Mark and for each other. Shaun Maxfield receives his long-service certificate along with other recipients. Photo: Daniela Dekker Major Lance Jeffrey, the MSB’s assistant executive officer, read about Jesus walking on the water and encountering his mates (Matthew 14:22-33) before MSB band secretary Darren Waterworth presented long-service certificates to Yasmin Van Gaalen-Prentice (10 years), Shaun Maxfield (10), Mark Hamilton (25) and Michael Agnew (30). In fine voice, Craig Downes led the congregational song ‘O Church, Arise’ before the MSB performed David Chaulk’s ‘And My Soul Overflow!’ With a sensitive, soulful anchoring from the tuba section, the band shared sacred moments through their musicianship, General Albert Orsborn’s words, and the Holy Spirit’s pleading: From a hill I know, Healing waters flow; O rise, Immanuel’s tide, And my soul overflow!’ With due solemnity and reverence, Majors Reeve and Jeffrey were installed in their roles (as executive and assistant executive officers respectively) by Commissioner Gluyas. Commissioner Miriam Gluyas instals Major Matt Reeve and Major Lance Jeffrey into their MSB roles. She explained that the MSB’s purpose is “to bring glory to God’s name” while inspiring, providing pastoral support, collaborating, creating, and taking risks.“We are here to bring the mission of God to the world,” she prayed. “Music is ministry to our world.”   Leslie Condon’s much-loved arrangement, ‘Gift for His Altar’, gave the MSB many opportunities to demonstrate an affinity for each other; to listen to each other and tell a tale. With heartfelt contributions from the euphoniums, strident support from the trombones and diligent attendance to the conductor’s beat, a story unfolded, centred around Richard Slater’s words and melody: I have not much to give thee, Lord, For that great love which made thee mine: I have not much to give thee, Lord, but all I have is thine.’ “All we have is His,” the TC affirmed. “All Mark has is His.” Addressing Mark directly, she said, “I recognise and affirm you as the bandmaster of the Melbourne Staff Band ... You will have a group of people who will raise loud, beautiful sounds of joy to the Lord. God has called you to this purpose.” The TC described the MSB as a group of disciples who will bring “people into the very presence of God”, and she urged the new bandmaster to prepare himself for excitement and a little disappointment as he encountered incredible opportunities. “You will do this with the support of others, and many will cheer you on.” “We come humbly,” prayed Major Reeve, asking God to give Mark creativity and discernment. “May you be close to him, in all ways. Bless his family, as they undertake this task, somewhat, together.’ Acknowledging that “it does seem surreal that I’m standing up the front and Ken is not,” Mark said he was “truly humbled to be in this position” and that his music selections reflected his thoughts as he commenced his role. Major Matt Reeve prays for Mark Hamilton during the commissioning service. Honouring his parents, and paying tribute to Russell Davies, Noel Jones, Hedley Preston, Ken Waterworth and Colin Woods, Mark reflected on a 1995 performance of ‘The Present Age’ when then-Commissioner John Gowans asked what quality The Salvation Army needed to serve the present age. “Courage”, was Gowans’ answer. Courage, Mark asserted, “is the theme I’ve chosen for the band this year ...“It is my desire for the band that we will act courageously, when prompted by the Spirit, to take a stand for Christ. The Melbourne Staff Band has a valuable ministry, and God’s not finished with us yet.” In a welcome return to ‘band singing’, with the trombone section accompanying, Neil Roper then led the MSB in Dean Goffin’s arrangement of John Bunyan’s ‘The Pilgrim Song’ (rendered via Percy Dearmer). The question of who ‘would valiant be’ arose in Major Reeve’s homily, revolving around the topic of Peter walking on the waves towards Jesus. Matt noted that deep waters signify tranquility in Western cultures, explaining that oceans and rivers symbolised chaos, death and destruction for the people of Jesus’ day and culture. By sending his closest followers out onto the waters, he added, Jesus was saying, “I want you to go and do the thing you are most afraid of ... We can take steps to do new things, but then we find ourselves in the boat, and it’s rocking. “What happens? We need courage. Jesus comes to us and says, ‘Take courage; do not be afraid. Come’.” “It’s not just about the music; it’s about Jesus. It’s about connecting with people and having conversations.” – Mark Hamilton After sharing in a chorus while the MSB members distributed bookmarks inviting people to be courageous and attend upcoming events, the band presented Leslie Condon’s ‘The Call of the Righteous’. A feature piece of the day, it proved to be a well-trodden pilgrimage, with the musicians’ balance and enthusiasm narrating a story of hardship, hope, hunger, healing and – ultimately – the haven of heaven. The final moments of the meeting included the congregational song, ‘God’s Soldier’, the benediction, and Erik Leidzén’s exacting, appropriate ‘Pressing Onward’. The event was a mini-marathon, brimming with hope and goodwill, truly worth participating in. The Melbourne Staff Band sing the ’Pilgrim Song’, accompanied by the trombone section. Photo: Daniela Dekker Settling-in period A few days later, Mark’s wife, Kylie, told Salvos Online , “This isn’t about Mark, or the band. It’s about the glory of God and the mission of The Salvation Army. We are hopeful. There is a lot that the band can be doing.” As for Mark, he later tells Salvos Online that “this is a settling-in year for me, but I hope we will be relevant. I want the band to be encouragers.” Mark is fair dinkum and explicit about being a Christian first, and a Salvo and a musician second. Roll that around in your mind. It’s timely. “If we feel an urge or compulsion to act or speak to someone, we should follow through,” he says. It’s not just about the music; it’s about Jesus. It’s about connecting with people and having conversations. “We need to engage with the communities and individuals we meet and visit and get alongside people,” Mark says.“Personnel will be an issue; it’s also true that a lot of people aren’t as interested in brass bands as people were in other eras. So, we need to be able to attract them and to be relevant to their lives.’ A final word from the new bandmaster: “I’m very fortunate that I have great support from Kylie and my family [his daughter Eva plays first cornet under her father’s baton in the MSB]. Kylie sees this as a great ministry opportunity for me.” That belief is shared by many people who wish Mark and the MSB well. Beyond tradition and convention, leaving behind past glories and struggles, transcending musical prowess, competence or performance, the MSB is looking Jesus in the eye. To view the live-stream video of the event, click here or go to the Box Hill Facebook site here

Chris and Nichole Maxwell serve in Kingston, Ontario, where ice skating outdoors and sledding to school are regular winter activities. Image: Supplied The Australia Territory has more than 30 Aussie officers serving overseas. In an ongoing series, Global Focus is featuring many of these officers – who they are, where they’re serving, the joys and challenges they face and what life looks like for them in their unique corners of The Salvation Army world.  After several years of feeling a strange sense that Canada was the place God wanted them to be, the Maxwells, along with their three young children, began their appointment in Kingston, Ontario, in January 2022. Three years on, here they are, reflecting to Salvos Online journalist KIRRALEE NICOLLE on their lives in Canada, the journey that led to this point, and the work that so often breaks their hearts and spurs them to put their best ministry feet forward. To start with, can you please tell me a little bit about yourselves? What are your hobbies, your interests and your passions? Nichole: I like to experience new things. I like a bit of adventure and exploring the outdoors, but I also enjoy sitting quietly in a nice café with a good coffee. My favourite past time though, is having fun with my family. Chris: I’m the opposite. I’m not an adventurous person. I like to stay indoors and watch movies. I like to broaden my mind with reading and podcasts, and I enjoy music. But just like Nichole, I love being with my family. And the great thing is, because Nichole and I are so different, whether we’re being adventurous in the great outdoors or just relaxing at home, we always have fun as a family. The Maxwells at a Kingston Corps' gingerbread house night in December 2024. Image: Supplied How did you come to be Salvation Army officers, and how did you end up working in Ontario? Chris: Like most officers, I started out on a completely different path. I was working as a financial planner, but one day I felt that I needed some extended time of quiet with God, so I got away from my usual routine and spent a few days in prayer. And it was while I was there that God spoke to me about becoming an officer. It was not a direction for ‘now’ but a sense that the plans I had been making for myself were not what God had in store for me. God spoke to me about laying down my own plans and preparing my heart and mind for a different path, and that was officership. My calling to be an officer came with a strong sense that this would one day include international service. I didn’t know when that would be or what that would look like, but I knew that I needed to remain open. Nichole: I think I was about 13 when I first felt God speak to me about officership, but at the time, I was extremely scared of public speaking, so the idea of preaching was just not on the cards for me. But as I began to pursue Jesus more and more in my early adult years, this call to ministry and to trust him in opportunities to speak grew and grew. Anyway, a few years down the line, Chris and I met and began dating, and 18 months later, we were married. We had spoken before we married about our mutual calling to ministry, but both felt that we needed to wait on God for his timing. Chris: One Sunday morning, I don’t remember what the sermon was about because, to be honest, I couldn’t concentrate on it. God had been speaking to my heart very clearly about applying for the following year’s session. This was in October, so quite late in the year to be applying. Following the service, Nichole had to stay back because there was a corps council meeting she was involved in, so I let her know I’d be back but that I needed to go home and pray. Nichole: I had no idea what was going on for him, but I could tell something had been stirring. But it was actually during the corps council meeting that I felt God speak to my heart. My corps officer was actually asking me to take on more responsibility in the following year. Chris and I were already the youth group and worship team leaders, and a friend of mine who was also on the team said, “They’re still in their first year of marriage; we shouldn’t be asking them to take on more responsibility,” and I heard God say to my heart, “You will take on more next year, but it won’t be here.” The Maxwell family in 2023, at the Canada and Bermuda Territorial Conference, 'Inspire'. Image: Supplied Chris: When Nichole and I finally had a chance to connect and talk and pray, it was clear that God was leading us to apply for college. We worked hard to get all the pre-college assignments done in time before the last board met, and we entered college the following January. Nichole: It was 2013 when we entered college. Chris had shared with me before we even married that he just had this impression that our lives would include overseas service at some point. It certainly wasn’t a calling for me at that point, but I’m up for adventure and new things, so I was on board. But then, in our fourth year of officership, when we had not long entered our second appointment, I felt God put Canada on my heart. I had no idea why. We didn’t really know anyone there, but I said to Chris, “I think we need to begin praying about Canada.” So, we did. Chris: So, we began praying about Canada and what this might mean. And again, in January of 2021, we felt this sense of urgency from God, like the time to submit our request for international exchange was now. So, we did. We weren’t actually expecting the turnaround to be so quickly. Our Area Officer at the time, Major Mark Brooks, had done a couple of stints on exchange and so we had talked through the process quite extensively with him, which was very helpful. We thought it might take a couple of years, but about six months later, we were notified that Canada had an appointment for us, and in the following December, just before the New Year, our young family (our kids were aged four, three and one) began the long journey to the other side of the world. What does a typical day at work look like for you? Nichole: I’m not sure that there is such a thing as a ‘typical’ day at work. It’s so diverse. We are, of course, corps officers, so we engage in the usual work of a church pastor, but we also lead a team of directors and managers who oversee the work of our ministry unit. Chris: Within the ministry unit there is our Community and Family Services Centre. They currently operate a food pantry that sees around 150 households a week and a warming centre (a temperature-controlled building providing relief from the elements) that includes access to various resources from around the city, such as housing and legal aid. They have both city and rural housing departments working both in homelessness and prevention. They also run supervised access (for families facing separation) in three locations in Kingston and the surrounding townships. So, there is a lot going on there. The ministry unit also has a thriving thrift store. And then we have a newly established mission board who are actively involved in the leadership of the church. Chris setting up a TipTap Kettle during the Christmas Kettle Campaign. Image: Supplied Nichole: All together, the ministry unit employs around 50 staff, and we work very closely with our managers and directors in their leadership over these spaces. Building a strong team culture both in the leadership of our church and in the organisation and leadership of the ministry unit, as well as working alongside our teams to seek God for what he is doing in our city and through our people, is truly one of the aspects of our role here that we love. Chris: And so, a typical day can include anything from sermon prepping and pastoral visits to meetings with our ministry leaders, and always, far too many emails. What are some things people may not know about Canada/Ontario specifically? What are the needs there, and what are some cultural features that you have come to be aware of? Nichole: Homelessness is a huge issue in Kingston, like it is in most cities, but it takes on a whole new level, I think, when, for three-quarters of the year, the temperatures are regularly below freezing. We’re at the end of February now, and as I look out my window, the snow is banked up as high as my car. From about mid-December through to March and sometimes even into April, it’s not just cold; it’s quite literally freezing. Don’t get me wrong, we love the Canadian winters. Our kids’ school is just around the corner from us, and we love pulling them to school on the sled, crossing the road after school to the hill on the other side and having a few runs on the sled down the hill before heading home. We absolutely love our white Christmases here and ice skating in the park on the public rink. We love it! But it’s hard to escape the knowledge that there are those who don’t have the nice warm home to return to. What is your favourite thing about what you do, and what is something challenging that you are facing currently (that you are happy to share)? Chris: For both Nichole and I, we are passionate about staying true to the kind of leaders we believe that God has called us to be. Our mantra as leaders, particularly in places that have experienced any measure of brokenness, decline, or have carried any kind of negative narrative about them, as happens in the church world, even the army world, is to ‘see the potential for God to move and work, and draw attention to it’. This is our favourite place to operate. We are both quite strategic thinkers, but myself in a more analytical and processes perspective and Nichole from a people and networks perspective, and so our gifting lies in building teams and structures around the vision God gives a particular place of ministry. The diversity that exists in our current appointment has allowed us to really stretch ourselves in this area. It has been a lot of hard work but incredibly rewarding and satisfying work, too. Kingston Citadel, Ontario. Image: Supplied. Nichole: From a personal perspective, this has been such a rich and rewarding experience for us with our children, too. They have been able to experience and learn so much. But the greatest challenge, of course, is being so far away from our extended family. We thank the Lord for Facetime, which helps a lot, but it’s not quite the same. God is good, though, and has confirmed so many times for us that we are right where we need to be. The distance would be too much to bear without his constant assurance. How can readers best pray or assist in addressing the needs you see in your work? Chris: We’d deeply appreciate your prayers for guidance and wisdom as we lead our ministry unit. We love our church and the people we serve here, and there is a real desire to see the lost saved and to live out the realities of the Kingdom of God here in our city of Kingston. Please pray that God continues to direct us as we lead this faithful church community. Help us to impact the people of our city with the love of Christ. We ask that you pray for our team; our staff, managers, and volunteers – that they’re empowered and united in spirit to bring hope and practical help to those in need. Additionally, please remember our family in prayer. Being far from extended family is challenging at times, and we ask that God would sustain us with his comfort and assurance.

General Lyndon and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham spent 10 days in the Indian Western Territory and were warmly greeted wherever they went. “My time in the India Western Territory was an unforgettable experience filled with powerful moments of worship, spiritual renewal, and vibrant cultural celebrations,” wrote General Lyndon Buckingham. “Thousands of people worshipped together at powerful public meetings, experiencing a deep sense of faith and unity. “Let us continue to encourage one another to fulfil God’s mission and share his truth as the body of Christ.” General Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries) spent 10 days in India last month – a tour that included the gathering of Indian leaders, visits to institutions, cultural performances and traditional dances and transformative spiritual encounters. A grand march of witness welcomed the world leaders to the   India Western Territory   on 14 February. At the women’s congresses in Gujarat and Maharashtra, Commissioner Buckingham urged the thousands who attended to reflect God’s image, live righteously and prioritise Jesus, emphasising that God has a purpose for every person. Welcome dance at the children and youth congress in Gujarat. The international leaders arrived at the children’s and youth congress to a guard of honour, and received a warm welcome from two young delegates, Nisha and Kinjal. Commissioner Buckingham encouraged the young delegates to pursue righteousness and lead future generations, and compelled all corps to elevate the voices of young people. General Buckingham urged them to step out in faith, trusting Jesus despite fears and doubts. Thousands of people worshipped together at powerful public meetings. The General reminded everyone that they are holy, chosen and dearly loved by God, and encouraged the congregation to trust in God’s promises. At Officers’ Councils, the General urged officers to be shepherds of God’s flock, leading with a servant heart and unwavering faith. At the training college, the General and Commissioner Buckingham inspired cadets to commit wholeheartedly to God’s mission. Meetings and visits The international leaders received a warm welcome from the staff at The Salvation Army’s Emery Hospital, Anand. “When you care for a patient, you see the face of Jesus,” General Buckingham said. At Evangeline Booth Hospital, Ahmednagar, General Buckingham praised the staff’s dedication. Commissioner Buckingham offered a prayer of blessing at both hospitals. The General greets nursing college students at Evangeline Booth Hospital, Ahmednagar, India Western Territory. The Buckinghams also attended Muktipur Farm Colony Corps and Atmapur village, which Commissioner Fakir Singh (also known as Frederick Booth-Tucker, a pioneer of the Army’s work in India) visited during his early ministry in the country. The world leaders also met with the territorial commanders from the six Indian territories, and the National Executive Officer, Colonel S.P. Simon, convened with the international leaders in Mumbai. General Buckingham emboldened the leaders to encourage each other, fulfil God’s mission and share his truth together as the body of Christ. “Many men, women and young people rededicated themselves at the mercy seat throughout the 10-day visit, and the presence of the General and Commissioner Buckingham served as a catalyst for strengthening roots for future growth in Christ and bearing lasting fruit,” wrote the editors for Gujarat and Maharashtra, India Western Territory.

The Salvation Army Australia Territory and International Headquarters have developed excellent resources for Lent and Easter. With Lent starting today, we are excited to provide you with Lent and Easter resources to carry you through 45 days of Gratitude for Jesus’ life, death and resurrection to new life. For your personal spiritual journey, The Salvation Army International has developed a seven-day rhythm of thanking God, noting things you are grateful for, sharing them with others, journaling, reflecting, and expressing thankfulness to those around you. For your faith community, The Salvation Army Australia has created resources for sermons, evangelism and outreach, with digital resources and videos to display in faith meetings. Here at Salvos Publications, we have special Easter editions of Salvos Magazine and Kidzone Magazine coming up, so look out for those to keep updated with all the news, activities and encouraging stories inside. To update your subscription, contact us at publications@salvationarmy.org.au . Lent resources: The Salvation Army International - Lent 2025 Easter resources: Easter Toolkit 2025 | mySalvos | The Salvation Army Australia

In this video series, Major Kim Haworth draws inspiration from the teachings of General William Booth on the essential role of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Major Haworth highlights the importance of being Spirit-led and encourages us to rely on God’s power to do the good works he has prepared for us in advance. This sermon has been developed as part of a four-week series that can be used in Salvation Army church meetings. To view the full range of resources, please visit https://my.salvos.org.au/jesus-centred-toolkit/

Victoria Divisional Commander Colonel Kelvin Merrett cuts the ribbon to launch the Salvos Stores Multicultural Showcase alongside Communications Secretary Colonel Rodney Walters and an excited group of staff, volunteers and community members at the Noble Park store.  BY LERISSE SMITH   Do you have a Japanese kimono hidden in your closet, a Chinese vase collecting dust, or a Mexican sombrero awaiting a new lease of life?   Then Salvos Stores would love to hear from you!   A groundbreaking initiative encouraging the public to donate multicultural items has been officially unveiled with the new Salvos Stores Multicultural Showcase launched at Melbourne’s Noble Park store .   Splashes of bright, colourful cultural outfits were the order of the day, coupled with a vast array of donated heritage and historical items testament to craftsmanship, stories and multinational traditions carried through many generations and bygone eras.   “The launch was a beautiful celebration of diversity,” said Leanne Wong, Relationship Manager of the Salvos Multicultural Community, who played a key role in initiating the launch event on 15 February.   “Every culture carries a unique story. Attendees joyfully shared their unique traditions, stories, and contributions. This fostered a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere that was both educational and uplifting. It served as a powerful engagement platform, as people from diverse cultural backgrounds came together to celebrate their heritage while gaining a deeper understanding of how their donations can bring hope to those in the community.”   The event drew about 120 attendees from 17 different cultures, marking the beginning of the initiative made possible through a collaboration between Salvos Stores and Salvos Community Fundraising team. The showcase drew 17 different cultures to the event, with many participants proudly dressing in traditional costumes to represent their heritage and multinational traditions carried through many generations and bygone eras. Together, they have successfully engaged multicultural communities, driving both donations and awareness to bring the first-ever Salvos Stores Multicultural Showcase to life.   Adding to the exciting project has been the inclusion of about 30 Multicultural Community Connectors who are championing the new venture.   Leanne said the passionate individuals played a crucial role in amplifying the showcase’s impact and extending its reach within their communities.   “Their involvement is essential in ensuring this initiative resonates with a broader audience to further strengthen the connection between The Salvation Army and multicultural communities,” Leanne said.   “This initiative has already attracted the interest of various cultural media and businesses, helping to broaden our reach and raise awareness among an even larger audience. With this strong foundation and growing enthusiasm generated by the launch, we plan to expand the Multicultural Showcase to other Salvos Stores.”   The Salvos Store Noble Park was chosen to launch the new venture due to its multiculturally diverse community, including the team of volunteers. An array of beautiful Mexican artifacts formed part of vibrant cultural displays at the Multicultural Showcase, plus the famous Sombrero hat! With plans for expansion to other stores, donations of goods sought for the multicultural showcases include clothing, accessories, footwear, handbags, hats, toys, tea sets, books, magazines, kitchenware, stationery, collectables, CDs and DVDs, artwork and furniture.   The idea for the new initiative originated when the Australia India Society of Victoria Secretary, Ruchi Sharma, reached out to Leanne, saying they had numerous cultural items but did not know what to do with them.   It was then they asked if Salvos Stores would like to have a cultural space for them – and hence, the idea for the Multicultural Showcase was born.   Leanne joined forces with Salvos Stores Regional Managers Lorena Hutchings and Leigh Murphy to begin a conversation about the new project. She canvassed the idea with local cultural groups – all of whom expressed excitement about the new multicultural focus.   “They felt like it was a good way to treat their stuff nicely,” Leanne remarked. “And they could tell the story of the history of the items.”   The new initiative has also provided a great opportunity to tap into something new for Salvos Stores from a diversity, cultural and inclusivity perspective, says Lorena.   “I'm excited to see how it plays out,” she said.   “We have got a great opportunity to show people that we will give the garments and their product the respect it deserves. We are an inclusive culture, and everyone can either shop with us to purchase or donate to us."   Additionally, Lorena emphasised the importance of ensuring the public knew that all communities were welcome in Salvos Stores. Click through the slideshow above for more photos. She highlighted that Salvos wanted to celebrate the cultural celebrations of different groups and be involved in their activities, creating an inclusive environment where people could come together, share their traditions, and feel supported in a space that valued diversity.   “They are our community, and we want them to feel very welcome and included in the Salvos Stores,” she said.   “I would love to see more customers coming through as a result and potentially get more volunteers who work or are living within that community to come and share their time with us so we build that sort of community more locally. I think it would be a real bonus on the back of it (the showcase).”     “People will be more excited if they know their cultural donation can make a difference.” Leigh agreed, remarking that the new showcase was a great initiative for the community, and the Salvos Stores team was excited about what was to come in the future.   “All our stores operate in their local communities, and a lot of our local communities are obviously very diverse,” Leigh said.   “This (the showcase) gives us a real opportunity to work a lot closer than what we do now with our local communities and to understand culturally what our communities are doing and where they are at. We like to work in unison across the country. So, whatever ideas we have in one region or one state, we certainly like to be sharing them across other regions and other states. I think it would be a wonderful opportunity in other states across the country.”   Looking to the future, it is hoped that the multicultural project will have the support and involvement of local corps, too.   Leanne believes it will be an ideal platform for the corps to connect with the community and discuss ways to assist others.   “People will be more excited if they know their cultural donation can make a difference,” she said.   “For them to know that their donation will support life-changing programs made possible by Salvos Stores and that together, we are creating a brighter future for individuals and the planet by addressing critical challenges in our community, such as providing aid for finances crises and natural disasters, tackling homelessness and domestic violence.”   For cultural item donations, please contact Leanne Wong, Relationship Manager Multicultural Community, at  leanne.wong@salvationarmy.org.au . Here is the donation guide: