In Western Australia, Mandurah Salvos are teaching conversational English to migrants in their local area. Lieutenant Crystal Lee (Corps Officer, Team Leader) says, “We just want to meet people where they are at.” In a developing area, Crystal truly believes “the church could be the community for the people who are feeling isolated and who don't have friends”.

General Lyndon Buckingham says people have experienced great devastation as a result of the war. BY IHQ COMMUNICATIONS On this third anniversary of the start of the Ukraine war, international leader of The Salvation Army, General Lyndon Buckingham, has reached out to survivors with words of solace and comfort and has called for a new level of moral consciousness and civic responsibility from both sides to end hostilities. “Unfortunately, we do not know the extent of the impact of the war on the Russia side,” said General Buckingham. “Details are scarce. But on the Ukraine side, The Salvation Army is working among people who have experienced great devastation as a result of the war. “Many thousands have died, nearly four million – including one million children – are displaced within the country, and six million have fled their country as refugees. Our prayers for comfort and healing are with all who live in fear and who grieve the loss of loved ones. “Today, for the sake of their own people, I call upon the leaders of both countries to bring about a swift and just end to hostilities. I also call upon world leaders to do all within their power to come alongside both countries in a spirit of bipartisanship and peacemaking.” The comments of The Salvation Army’s international leader follow closely behind the movement’s launch last week of  ‘Three Years of War: Healing the Mental Health Scars’ , an exhibition in central London that depicts the story of its work during the war. The exhibition includes the personal stories of survivors and shares how The Salvation Army has provided spiritual, emotional and physical support to individuals, families and communities. The Salvation Army, now officially working in 134 countries, cares deeply about the welfare of all people and is committed to peacebuilding and ensuring people’s right to live without fear for their lives. Since its inception, it has responded to the needs of displaced people – whether fleeing conflict, violence, persecution, natural disasters or poverty – through the provision of practical, emotional and spiritual assistance. The movement’s  International Positional Statement on Refugees and Asylum Seekers  upholds ‘all people having the right to life, liberty and security of person’ and supports ‘international efforts to eliminate persecution and displacement through the promotion of peace, tolerance, understanding and respect for human life and dignity’.   The prolonged conflict in Ukraine has resulted in serious mental health needs, ranging from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and panic attacks to insomnia, nightmares and problems forming attachments with others. The Salvation Army within Ukraine and neighbouring countries is creating safe spaces for children and adults where their mental, physical, social and spiritual development can be nurtured and supported. The ‘Three Years of War’ exhibition is available to view online and at Gallery 101 at The Salvation Army International Headquarters, 101 Queen Victoria Street, London EC4V 4EH, United Kingdom.  For more information, please visit:  www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/ukraine-three-years-of-war The Salvation Army International Positional Statements are available here:  www.salvationarmy.org/isjc/ips

Sarah* knows firsthand what it is like to be impacted by family violence and says the partnership between The Salvation Army’s Alexis team and police helped her build trust in the police and open up about her experience. ( Photo courtesy of Engin Akyurt  pexels.com ) BY LERISSE SMITH   Sarah* knows firsthand what it is like to be impacted by family violence.   The victim-survivor also knows how the partnership between the police and the Alexis team helped her build trust in the police and open up about her experience.   “I have repeatedly stated that I would never have been able to trust the police and share my story if it were not for the swift and collaborative intervention by the Family Violence Unit and Alexis practitioners,” she said.   Her story began last year when the Family Violence Unit (FVU) and the Alexis team conducted a joint assertive outreach response to a local hospital in response to a recent family violence incident at Sarah’s home.   The day prior to the hospital visit, police officers had been called to a scene of significant family violence after Sarah reported a disturbance between herself and her partner of six months, Tim*.   When police arrived on the scene, they found both Sarah and Tim with visible injuries and signs of severe violence. At this time, police identified Sarah as the primary aggressor due to her heightened presentation and non-compliance with responding officers.   Tim appeared calm and collected, providing a seemingly convincing account of the events. Sarah was arrested and transferred to the local police station for further investigation.   However, shortly after the arrest, the police team realised Sarah had been misidentified and arranged for her to be transported to the hospital for medical care. At this time, the FVU notified the Alexis team of the case, and a joint response was arranged.   Whilst in the hospital, the coordinated and collaborative response between the FVU and Alexis team repaired Sarah’s relationship with the police. She felt comfortable sharing her experience of family violence and provided an initial statement.   Sarah actively engaged in comprehensive safety and risk management planning, whilst collaborative efforts were also made to locate Tim and execute a full intervention order.   While the investigation is ongoing, Sarah has continued to work with the Alexis team almost daily and was subsequently discharged into Salvation Army emergency accommodation where she has accepted additional practical assistance and ongoing therapeutic supports.   *Not their real names. Their identity is protected due to safety and confidentiality reasons.

Each week throughout 2025 year, Salvationists around the world are uniting in prayer for a particular territory or region of The Salvation Army. Prayer requests are shared by the focus territory/region to help us pray with precision and power for one another.   This week ( 24 February -2 March ) we are praying for the Democratic Republic of Congo Territory. This territory is led by Colonels Gracia and Lydia Matondo. There are 495 officers (358 active, 137 retired), 26 cadets, 201 corps and 117 outposts. There are 36,613 senior soldiers; 3963 adherents; 18, 149 junior soldiers and 5458 employees.   Pray requests for the nation: For more than a decade, our country has been experiencing a war of aggression that has caused more than six million deaths to date, so we pray: ·  May the Lord protect the DRC in the face of the threats of various pandemics that are disturbing the country and against the war of aggression that is causing a lot of material damage and damage to human life (people becoming refugees, homeless or orphans). ·    May the Lord break through into the lives of children and young people who are involved in a culture of violence and abuse on the streets of Kinshasa. ·     May the Lord touch the hearts of decision-makers so that peace may reign throughout the country, particularly in the east. For the territory: ·  Pray for the commissioning of new officers in June and for the new candidates who will be consecrated as cadets in October 2025. ·  May the Lord give us the necessary means to carry out this great mission which is the salvation of souls. Pray that there be the opening of new posts and outposts. ·  May the Lord bless and protect all the officers who are full-time in his service, regardless of their background; may he bless Salvationists and friends; may he increase the faith in each one so that there may be a total consecration and that his work may go forward. To find out more about the DRC Territory, click here . To download the 2025 International Prayer Focus schedule, click here .       Close

Territorial Commander Commissioner Miriam Gluyas (centre) with Majors Dean and Vicki Clarke at the installation service. BY KIRRALEE NICOLLE Majors Dean and Vicki Clarke have been officially installed as the new Divisional Commander and Area Officer, respectively, for the Tasmania Division of the Australia Territory. Officers, Salvation Army leaders and Salvationists gathered at Hobart Citadel on Sunday 16 February to welcome the couple to the state and to their leadership roles. Dean preached at the service on the High Priestly Prayer in John 17. Kingborough-Huon Corps soldier Bruce Edwards prays for the Clarkes during the service. Bruce Edwards, from Kingborough-Huon Corps, spoke on behalf of soldiers and friends of The Salvation Army from across Tasmanian corps and centres. He reflected on the beauty of creation in the state, the kindness of the Tasmanian people, and the slower pace of life compared to mainland Australia. “We warmly welcome both of you to this state,” Bruce said. “Tasmania is a great place to live ... We are confident you will love being here.”   He spoke of difficult times for both the broader church and the Army and said that by following Scripture, the couple would lead well amid challenges. “The Army has appointed you to lead us, and we, in turn, want to support you and work with you in your leadership, as we each play our part in seeking to strengthen The Salvation Army in this state,” Bruce said. “Be assured of our prayers and our good wishes for you as you take up your appointments.” “I believe you will see God’s influence through you impact this division.” Major Angela Rawlings, representing the officer team, quoted Micah 6:8, in which the prophet Micah encouraged the people of Judah to “act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly” with their God. “I can’t say it any better,” she said. “Be just. Be fair to other people. Act justly with right judgment, doing what is fair and right for other people. Love. Diligently practice kindness and compassion. Show mercy and lovingkindness. Be compassionate and loyal in your love. Walk humbly with your God, setting aside any overblown sense of importance or self-righteousness. Live humbly, and in obedience to God’s laws and leadings. Don’t take yourself too seriously; take God seriously. Major Dean Clarke brings a message to the congregation at the installation service at Hobart Corps. “In following this wisdom and advice as you carry out the duties of your appointments, I believe you will see God’s influence through your impact on this division.” Territorial Commander Commissioner Miriam Gluyas praised The Salvation Army in Tasmania for its creativity and ability to try new things as a division. “Tassie, you go!” Miriam said. “These are good people; your God is with you, bless you.” Commissioner Miriam Gluyas conducts the installation ceremony at Hobart Corps. Vicki then spoke, describing her and Dean’s lives together and their many years of service. “We’ve been officers for 38 years,” she said. “That’s a long time, isn’t it? But you know what, we’ve never said no to God. We come here to Tasmania following His leading to come and serve here.” Miriam then carried out the installation, providing the couple with two passages from friends who had been praying for Dean and Vicki from across the country. One of these passages was from Exodus 14:21-22, where Moses parts the Red Sea. “May that be so in your ministry,” Miriam said. “That he would drive back the waters so that you will walk through and stand on dry ground, knowing that he is with you.” (From left) Major Kevin Lumb (Territorial Governance Board member), Felicity Natoli (Territorial Governance Board member and Hobart Corps soldier), Majors Dean and Vicki Clarke, Commissioner Miriam Gluyas, and Majors Johnmark and Nicole Snead (Hobart Corps Officers).

Aux-Lieut Sandra Mortimer (left), playing the role of a cafe customer, gets a hug from a kind-hearted fellow customer in a music video for country singer Tom Curtain.  BY DEAN SIMPSON   When Auxiliary-Lieutenant Sandra Mortimer met a work colleague for coffee at a cafe in the Northern Territory town of Katherine, little did she know she’d end up in a music video!    Sandra had arranged to meet with Sally Courtney, The Salvation Army’s Communications Manager for the Northern Territory, to discuss work-related projects.     It didn’t take long for Sandra and Sally to realise that something unusual was happening around them.     “ Sally, being a super PR operator that she is,  made the observation  that  by default, we were   sitting right amongst a  film set  in the Coffee Club! ” Sandra recalls. Sure enough, the well-known  Katherine local and nationally renowned  country  music singer-songwriter  Tom Curtain was  there with a  cameraman. They  were in the midst of  filming  his  new single, ‘Be Kind’.  Country music singer Tom Curtain. “I t became apparent that  they  needed another person to  step into a scene for  the  music video! ” Sandra said. “ After Sally  informed   me  who T o m Curtain was,  I was happy to help .”     Sandra  volunteered to play the role of a paying customer whose credit card fails to work and is ‘rescued’ by another kind-hearted customer. She ‘stars’ in the video for 15 seconds!   “ Little did  we  know that the music video  would also feature, in a much larger part, brother Barry Fletcher, a regular worshipper and a recent addition to the leadership team at Katherine Corp s. Barry plays the part of a grandfather, and he is that , too.    “ Overall, it was a great experience and great to meet some more inspiring locals achieving remarkable things.     Sandra plays the role of a customer who is dismayed when her credit card declines while she is trying to pay. ‘Dolly’s Dream’  charity   “[During the filming] w e also  learned the reason behind Tom’s new song,” Sandra added.     “‘ Be Kind’ was produced in support  of Katherine family, the Everetts, and their charity, ‘ Dollys Dream ’ . In 2018, Dolly’s Dream  was  established   by Kate and Tick Everett  after  their  beautiful 14-year-old daughter,  Amy  Dolly ,   tragically  took her life after  experiencing relentless  cyberbullying.    “ Kate and Tick’s ongoing efforts in spreading the anti-bullying messaging and to be kinder soon led to Dolly’s Dream having a remarkable impact nationally, with the couple receiving widespread media coverage and fundraising support.”   The  Everetts now hold an annual ‘Do it for Dolly Day’. They also offer a phone counselling support service, and their website features a Parents Hub that supports families with children experiencing bullying, along with numerous resources and programs for schools, sporting clubs, and cyber safety apps for parents. ( www.dollysdream.org.au )  To watch the music clip  (with Sandra appearing 43 seconds into the video), click here

While a good sermon is a delight, what can sometimes heighten the experience is a good song to follow it, often referred to as the ‘response song’. This song can build on the theme of the sermon as well as help people who feel a need to prayerfully respond.   Sometimes, however, if the officer or worship leader has rushed in putting the meeting together, the wrong song can be chosen. Or possibly the right one, just not the one the preacher expected. Similarly, the closing song of a meeting can sometimes undo the strong message of the sermon.   I recall reading an old anecdote of a preacher who implored the good folks of his community to avoid ‘the demon drink’ and encouraged them to pour their alcohol into the river that ran next to the town. He then said, ‘Let us sing our final song together, “Shall We Gather At The River?”.   Imagine the following scenarios …   The sermon is a timely message on gossiping and ‘taming the tongue’ (James 3), and the preacher feels she’s hit the mark well judging by the guilty look on some faces. As she takes her seat, the worship leader invites people to sing their final song – ‘I Love To Tell The Story’.   The corps officer provides a sad message, informing the congregation he is soon to depart for a new appointment at another corps. He speaks of being obedient to God’s will, and he says, ‘Jesus led me here, and it’s Jesus who now leads me away.’ The band then strikes up the closing song, ‘What A Friend We Have In Jesus’.   The corps is divided. The dominating topic in the media and news outlets is the upcoming referendum on the nation becoming a republic. Should we stay with the Commonwealth and the monarchy or step out on our own as an independent nation? The corps officer has made herself clear: it’s time to ‘grow up’ and step away from our close ties to Britain. The worship leader, however, seems to differ, and the congregation stands to sing ‘Majesty, Worship His Majesty’.   In his sermon on commitment and courage in faith, the preacher uses an illustration of Sir Guinane Artellius, the 16th-century Dutchman who refused to deny his Christian faith while travelling in the Middle East. Tied between beams, he was whipped and then died as multiple spears were thrown at his body, some of them passing all the way through. While his commitment to Christ was inspiring, the final song – ‘O Holy Night’ – was not.   The preacher reminds her flock that God hears their prayers and cares for them. She uses Isaiah 59:1 as the basis for her sermon, ‘Look, the Lord’s hand is not too weak to deliver you, nor his ear too deaf to hear you.’ The message makes perfect sense … until they sing ‘Shout To The Lord’.   And finally, it’s a funeral service for a man who committed his life to God but also idolised the Beatles. The corps officer speaks of the difference between being a fan of a music group and being a follower of Christ. He makes a strong point about different levels of commitment and of being clear on who or what is appropriate for our worship. The final song of the service was, however, chosen by the deceased, and it seems he gets the final word – ‘Take My Life and Let It Be’.   Major Mal Davies is the Assistant Divisional Commander for the Victoria Division

“I have a dream, that children in Ukraine and my city of Kharkiv and around the whole world would not startle and fear when they hear a loud noise and think it’s a projectile or bomb,” said Tamara, from Kharkiv Corps, Ukraine. “I dream that children could look into the sky and see animal shapes from the formation of the clouds and not think about what objects might be flying up there – helicopters or planes or projectiles. I dream that people in my country, my city and around the whole world could live in a peaceful world. There is much more I could say, but this is the most important.” As Ukrainians around the world mark the grim milestone of three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of their country on 24 February 2022, they continue to dream of and pray for peace. The Eastern Europe Territory, of which Ukraine is a division, asks The Salvation Army world to join them in praying for peace. Beams of Remembrance lit up military burial grounds in Lviv, Ukraine, last night (local time). This has become a tradition on the eve of the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Photo courtesy Kyiv Post .   “I ask the Lord to protect my husband every day,” said one Salvationist. “I ask him to protect my family from drones and pieces of rockets wherever we are. And I ask for peace in our country ... not for a win … but for peace.”   Another Salvationist spoke about the work they do assisting so many grieving and traumatised people to help them feel loved, that their lives matter, and help supply their basic needs. “The biggest challenge is war,” she said. “Alarms, drones, explosions, hiding children, sitting in basements – these things disturb our life. We see fear, sorrow, pain and we want to share love, mercy and joy to others.” She emphasised the need for peace.   Another Salvationist spoke about the joy of being able to be God’s light to others in very dark times. She added, “But please, don’t forget about Ukraine and those of us who stay here and serve to bring God’s love to others.”

Salvation Army officers and cadets in Ukraine – continuing to serve and minister in the midst of war. BY DOMINIKA DOMANSKA and SIMONE WORTHING Since the start of the war in Ukraine on 24 February 2022, more than 6.3 million Ukrainians have been forced to flee their country as refugees and around 3.7 million people are internally displaced. At least half of the country’s children have been driven from their homes, and it is estimated that more than 14 million Ukrainians need humanitarian assistance and protection (United Nations news report, January 2025). The prolonged duration of the conflict is resulting in serious mental health issues, ranging from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and panic attacks to insomnia, nightmares, concentration and memory issues, low self-esteem, not finding pleasure in previously enjoyable activities, problems forming attachments with others, and being scared and uncertain of what the future might bring.  Providing support Salvation Army corps in Ukraine are working to create safe spaces for children and adults where their mental, physical, social and spiritual development can be nurtured and supported. Programs promote community and prevent isolation, and creative projects engage participants with activities to aid trauma processing and integration. Excursions for children help normalise life. This can be through play, sports activities, Scouts, crafts, cooking, the arts (performances, music, singing), cultural and recreational activities, art-based workshops and religious activities. These gatherings provide a supportive environment where people impacted by the war can connect, exchange experiences and acquire strategies to manage stress. This holistic approach tackles psychosocial distress and aims to foster physical health and community cohesion.   Creative expression Engaging in creative activities is a powerful means of processing emotions and coping with the psychological impact of war. Creativity allows for self-expression and can be incredibly therapeutic. Activities such as painting, drawing, writing or playing an instrument can help people explore and articulate their feelings nonverbally. Art therapy is a well-established method for dealing with trauma and emotional distress. Creating art can provide a sense of control and accomplishment, offering a way to visually express experiences that might be difficult to put into words. The process of creating can be calming and meditative, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. The content in this article is part of the Three Years of War exhibition currently on display at International Headquarters London. It will be available online from 1 March. Supporting women By Cadet Viktoria Moskalenko Dnipro Corps organises meetings for women, where they study the Word of God, learn about the Bible, discover the history of The Salvation Army, watch films, read poems, take part in handicrafts, share recipes and prepare meals. “Because we can feel the spirit of our native people, we don’t feel lonely, and we don’t feel homesick as much.” - Yuliia, art and craft club leader The emotional wellbeing of all people in Ukraine, especially those who have relocated from war zones and whose relatives and loved ones are fighting on the frontline, has suffered greatly. People live with constant stress and there is so much sorrow, grief and uncertainty, but there are such limited resources to support their emotional recovery. Larisa, an internally displaced person, is now a Salvation Army volunteer. As followers of Jesus Christ and servants of the Church, we strive to create a comfortable and warm atmosphere so that women can immerse themselves in a calm and friendly environment. The meetings allow women to feel part of the community. They share their emotions and receive support and empathy through encouragement and prayer. Often, solutions to problems come from other members of the group. It is an opportunity to focus on beautiful things (poems, films, music), while physical exercise can support and help improve emotional wellbeing. Engaging in handicrafts enables the women to relax. Larisa left a dangerous city with her daughter. They overcame the difficult journey and arrived in Dnipro. Larisa came to The Salvation Army for assistance including food, bedding and hygiene products, and subsequently participated in the sport and art therapy programs. Larisa now helps with deliveries and packing donations.   Datsyuk  was forced to leave the devastated city of Mariupol with her family because her home was destroyed. Datsyuk is exploring becoming a senior soldier. When she learnt about The Salvation Army, she started volunteering. She now attends the women’s club and Bible study and is exploring becoming a Salvation Army church member. Yuliya  was forced to leave Nikopol, Dnipropetrovsk, with her family. She says: “I could not stay in an apartment where there are no windows, electricity or water. We moved after my child suffered a concussion. When I learnt about The Salvation Army, I started volunteering.” Now she attends a women’s club and helps in whatever way she can. Supporting children According to UNICEF (originally the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund), the impact of the war on children has been particularly devastating, having wiped out three years of schooling, playtime with friends and moments with loved ones. Many thousands of children are experiencing symptoms of stress and related traumas. Salvation Army corps and their teams, both inside and outside of Ukraine, are working to ensure that children feel safe, and are providing psychological care, afterschool and homework clubs, language classes, youth/children’s clubs, camps, excursions and craft workshops. Making fun and educational classes available to children helps protect them from the trauma of war, and art can play an important role in their development and wellbeing. Sofia attends the after-school program at a corps in Ukraine. After she began engaging with the program and working with a psychologist, her mother noticed significant positive changes in Sofia’s behaviour at home and school. Scouting is an important activity for children and youth. Salvation Army Scouting is proving particularly popular among children in Ukraine. It instils social and public responsibilities, develops character and allows for unity with nature. “Children can experience ‘today, now’. This has a very positive and practical effect on a person’s psychological recovery [from post-traumatic stress disorder],” says Major Konstantin Shvab, Ukraine Divisional Commander. “The community has become my family since I’m alone here with my sons, separated from my relatives – like most of the women in our community.” - Daria, active community member Beyond Ukraine The Salvation Army in Georgia hosts a program for Ukrainian children who have settled in the capital city, Tbilisi. The supportive environment at the centre plays a crucial role in helping them heal and adapt to their new circumstances. A new element that children wanted was the addition of music lessons. A corps member duly introduced them, with drums being particularly popular. Having a safe space to study, play and learn survival techniques is important for youth development. “Fleeing from Odesa with my twin sister and mum took four days and was terrifying, especially with my dad still there,” says 15-year-old Katja. “The Salvation Army’s after-school program at their church in Tbilisi has been a lifeline for me. Playing the drums helps me release my anger and tension; it’s like therapy. The music lessons have brought me great joy and a sense of normalcy. I’m so grateful for this opportunity and the support from The Salvation Army." Bible studies provide inspiration and comfort. United Kingdom The Salvation Army in Ramsgate, UK, supports Ukrainian refugees through addressing their emotional, social and practical needs. This helps refugees to recover from trauma, reconnect with their heritage and build fulfilling lives in a new community. English classes equip refugees with essential language skills, which allows them to develop relationships with the local community, enhancing their confidence and easing daily life challenges. A club for teenagers enables young people to meet with their peers, speak in their language and form friendships, helping to prevent isolation. In a similar vein, meetings are held for older people to connect with each other.   “I felt much better when I realised that, despite my difficult situation, the instability and unsettled state of my life, I can help others and be useful to them.” - Oksana, active community member Training opportunities, such as developing barista skills, aid refugees in the gaining of self-esteem, work experience and a sense of purpose, paving the way for independence and financial stability. Volunteering opportunities are also available within The Salvation Army. By helping others, refugees find new meaning in their lives and contribute to the local community. Community singing, traditional celebrations and shared meals bring people together, strengthening cultural identity and providing comfort through familiar traditions. A Ukrainian school enables children to maintain their language, heritage and cultural identity, fostering emotional stability and pride. Through spiritual support and church services, refugees stay connected to their faith and find comfort, particularly in times of crisis. To donate to The Salvation Army’s Ukraine response, click here .

This year’s Self Denial Appeal officially commences Sunday 2 March. Join us on a journey around The Salvation Army world as we see how international projects are empowering women in India, transforming the lives of farmers in Tanzania, bringing hope to refugees in Bulgaria and providing a lifeline to children and adults in Georgia. To find out more and donate visit selfdenial.info

Salvation Army cadets from the Eastern Europe Territory have contributed to a video calling for prayer for peace to mark the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine. (Video at end of story) “It is with heavy hearts that we are approaching the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine, which started on 24 February 2022,” said Colonels Ann and Richard Borrett, Territorial Leaders of the Eastern Europe Territory, which includes the Ukraine Division.   “We have been amazed by the way our officers, soldiers and corps have responded to the needs of their communities.  We are proud of them! “Please continue to pray for their protection, but mostly for an end to this conflict. There are no winners in war – so many people have lost their lives on both sides. We pray also that all those who have suffered loss will feel God’s comfort and love at this time.    “[In this video], cadets from Ukraine share their personal stories about how God called them to respond to his call to become Salvation Army officers during such a difficult time.   “Please join the Eastern Europe Territory cadets in prayers for peace in Ukraine. Thank you for your continued interest and prayers. God bless you.”   Ivan Berezkin, Territorial Webpage Developer who created the video and lives in Ukraine, shared how difficult this project was for him “because of the emotions it triggered while editing.   “I had flashbacks from every single sentence each Ukrainian cadet said,” Ivan shared. “ There is pain in every sentence for every Ukrainian citizen.” Click on the video below:

Sanatollah with Major Debbie Serojales, former Sunraysia Corps Officer. Image: Supplied BY KIRRALEE NICOLLE In the northwest of Victoria, on the banks of the Murray River, lies Mildura. With a regional population of just under 60,000, by Australian centres, Mildura is small. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in cultural diversity. In 2023, AMES Australia reported that the city comprised about 80 different nationalities. With seasonal worker programs and refugee resettlement initiatives, residents hail from India, Vanuatu, Iraq, Iran, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, the Congo and Burundi, to name just a few nations. Amid this dynamic cultural melting pot, The Salvation Army’s Sunraysia Corps has been providing care and assistance to people from across the world who are making Mildura home. One ethnic group in the area has recently been resettling in large numbers, with initial support from AMES Australia case workers. Former Sunraysia Corps Officer Major Debbie Serojales said those from Afghanistan with refugee status first began arriving at the Doorways program in a trickle, which then soon turned into a flood of more than 30 families who would regularly come to get fresh food. She said for these families, life in Mildura wasn’t always easy. “It’s so important to make sure we take the time to stop and listen.” “They don’t know how to manage funds initially, and they're trying to start a new life,” she said. “They have the basic things in their home, but they'll come in [to Doorways] because they can’t afford the rent. Rent is so high and [so is] everything that comes with setting up a life.” One of the first to arrive at Doorways was Sanatollah. “He sticks in our mind because he spoke no English at all,” Debbie said. “He would come twice a week for the fruit and veg, [and] he’d always [arrive] first to try to get the best.” The last day Debbie was at Doorways before moving to her new appointment at Merri-Bek Corps, she had a full-circle realisation. “I’m having this conversation with [Sanatollah], and I just had this moment of, ‘I followed your journey and now we're talking about faith’,” she said. Debbie said that until that day, Sanatollah had just seen her as the Debbie who worked at Doorways and had always taken the time to welcome him with a smile. He hadn’t yet made the connection that she was a faith leader. She said while trying to cross language divides, she managed to ask him what the equivalent Muslim religious leader would be, and he was stunned to discover that Debbie was, in fact, the equivalent of a mullah for The Salvation Army in Mildura. “He recognised that I was in this position of leadership within the church,” Debbie said. Debbie said she and Sanatollah then both acknowledged that while they had different beliefs – Debbie a Christian, Sanatollah a Muslim – their differences weren’t the main thing. “We both agreed that it didn’t matter. He said, ‘The Salvation Army for me is a place where I am safe’.” Debbie said that the Doorways service not only provided food but also a more continuous relationship that supported refugees in settling, learning to manage their money, practising English, and building relationships across cultural divides. Debbie said it was a privilege to hear the stories of those who had travelled sometimes much further than just from their country of birth to Australia. For instance, Sanatollah spent more than 10 years on the move between Pakistan, Iran and Turkey after leaving Afghanistan and before entering Australia. He had also been left with a physical disability, which he was now able to get support to manage in Australia. She said others had been on similar journeys across multiple countries. “It’s easy to make an assumption, but they’ve come with so much more to their story,” Debbie said. “And it’s so important to make sure we take the time to stop and listen.”