Participants at the United Carpark Carnival listen to a guest speaker Megan Elms during the event. By ANTHONY CASTLE More than 140 young people and leaders got the youth year off to a vibrant start by gathering for Carpark Carnival in Adelaide on 10 February. Kicking off at 6:30, Carpark Carnival was the first combined youth event hosted by Revolution Youth at Revolution Church, Oakden. The event offered music and carnival attractions for high school-aged youth who attended from seven corps. “It was awesome for young people to be together and just have a fun time, but then also engage in a worship space alongside the carnival,” explains Marj Rava, member of the National Youth and Young Adults Team. “Just the gathering of young people was really awesome. We talk about momentum, for youth ministries to have something together ... it’s encouraging for young people.” The event featured a range of rides and attractions, such as a dunk machine, a basketball area, a bungee run, Daytona arcade machines, a mechanical bull, popcorn, and a barbecue. The event also had worship segments and a message from Megan Elms, ministry leader from Revolution Youth. “We create the space for young people to experience youth church, have fun and bring leaders together,” says Megan. “With COVID, there was a lot of disjointedness, and people are longing to come together and be united. This was a good starting point.” Megan spoke about the Parable of the Lost Sheep, the worth of all young people and the love available to everyone. There were approximately 140 people in attendance. “I shared the story of the lost sheep, how Jesus looks for us and searches for us,” Megan explains. “Even when we have mucked up or felt unloved or judged or lonely, Jesus comes to find us. He found me and told me there was nothing that would separate me. That’s a story everyone should know; that they are loved without exception.” Carpark Carnival organisers hope to run the event again, building on the momentum with local youth leaders and young people at coming events. “An event like that is a time to show them they are loved, and they belong; that they are worth it,” Marj explains. “That’s the key, you have some fun but also give a message of love and acceptance ... so that they know their worth. It’s why we do it ... to show young people that they are valued.”

Lieutenant David Bruford enjoys a cuppa and chat with Devenport community members Dennis and Carol Cannon. Following the national changes to the Doorways operational model, Devonport Corps in Tasmania has re-focused its Doorways program on creating space for connection and community. “As well as meeting our community’s physical needs, loving and caring is our focus,” said Lieutenant David Bruford, Devonport Corps Officer. “We are having fantastic conversations and doing life together.” The Salvos Connect site is focused not only on creating time and space for conversations but also on the way those conversations occur, which has provided a safe place for community members to discuss their challenges. The conversations have allowed the corps to understand, and respond to, specific community needs. Community members can then connect with other Salvo programs at the corps, such as craft group, men’s and women’s get-togethers, EmploymentPlus Disability Employment Service, and Positive Lifestyle Program. “We are with people when they need it most,” David said. “Making sure we take time for a chat has also created opportunity for faith conversations. This is a fantastic adventure, and calling, to live out our values and vision, to really connect with community.” – CLIFF WORTHING

Broken Hill Adults and Families Service team members circa 2019 – Gerry, Nicki, Sharryn, Trevor and Barry. BY LIEUT-COLONEL LAURIE ROBERTSON On 12 October 2023, Trevor Paul, the leader of the Family Violence Stream at The Salvation Army Catherine Haven centre in Broken Hill (NSW), passed away after a long health battle. His loss is still keenly felt by The Salvation Army teams he was involved in and connected to, as well as by many in the Broken Hill Community. On this first anniversary of Trevor leaving us, we share our thanks and pay our respects to a man who loved helping people rebuild their lives as he journeyed with them through their deepest difficulties and trauma. He was a wonderful, caring, calming presence within the teams he led and with the people they served. Trevor worked in the community services sector for almost 30 years after initiating a career change to move out of the mining industry, commencing work for the Youth Accommodation Support Service, where he stayed for more than 20 years. He became part of The Salvation Army in May 2016 as a homelessness case manager. Around 12 months later, he became the acting manager of the team. This led to him being permanently promoted to the role of Program Manager of the Broken Hill Adults and Families Service (NSW/ACT Homelessness Team). In August 2022, during a restructuring, Trevor transitioned into the Family Violence Stream and showed openness and dedication to leading the Catherine Haven team in this specialist service. When I was at Broken Hill High School with Trevor in our teenage years, he was a thoughtful and calm person. These qualities were still strong when I reconnected with him a few decades later in my role as an area officer for The Salvation Army with my wife, Simone. These attributes, combined with his humility and leadership, proved to be wonderful catalysts, as he strove to have every aspect of The Salvation Army ministry in Broken Hill collaborating effectively so that everyone the Salvos connected with received holistic support. Not long after Trevor’s passing, a number of those who had worked closely with him wrote a personal tribute. The following are excerpts from these tributes. Major Brad McIver (TSA Head of Social Mission) : “Trevor had this amazing way of inviting me into a depth of relationship and trust that ensured that over the time we worked closely together, we were able to share much. Such an unassuming character, yet deeply and passionately committed to his family, friends and work. A calming presence often for those around him … from my observation, nothing ever seemed to ruffle the feathers too much.” Nicki Bonell (work colleague and friend): “I met Trev about a week before he started working for The Salvation Army, when he came to Catherine Haven to sign his contract. He came rolling in on his Harley, which shook the front windows. My first impression was OMG, what are we in for? And he didn’t disappoint. We clicked as friends, and our journey began … he was my support network when I didn’t think I had what it took to manage the service when he first took leave.” Bec Page and Emma Sabey (Case managers at Catherine Haven): “Trev was just such an amazing human being. The one thing we’ll forever be grateful for is that Trev took a chance on us and offered us to be his domestic violence case managers. He was also there with a listening ear and great advice. No question was ever too silly. Trev was more than just a manager; he was a great friend. Work was always such a joyful place to be.” Majors Kevin Meredith and Wai Wai Mar Sugunama (Broken Hill Corps Officers): “Trevor noticed our Salvo uniforms when walking along Argent St, Broken Hill, shortly after we moved to town in early 2021. He introduced himself. Around us on site, we see hallmarks of Trevor’s practical support. We very much appreciated Trevor’s quiet way, without ego, to work together. We both feel that we have lost a terrific colleague who possessed a great heart for our community.” Hannah Cameron (NSW Family Violence Practice Lead): “I’m grateful for Trevor’s ability to put myself and others at ease. To have a chuckle and see the lighter side of life. He was so proud of his town, his community, his team, and the women and children he worked with. There’s something about being around Trevor that makes you feel immediately accepted and safe, even when very little is being said.” Lyndon Gray (Senior Project Officer for the Department of Communities and Justice in Far West NSW): “It has been my pleasure over the past six or seven years to have worked with The Salvation Army, and in particular Trevor to develop and expand the homelessness services in Broken Hill and surrounds. His passion and commitment (and, of course, his staff as well) to those experiencing difficulty is well-known, and as a manager, leader and friend, he will be greatly missed. During the COVID pandemic, we saw Trevor and his staff work through very difficult situations and often travelling great distances to assist people stranded on the border when the borders between NSW and Queensland closed.” Scott Hammond (former youth services colleague): “Guided me through my first years as a youth worker and always kept me grounded and focused. A great mate at work and an even greater mate out of work. Many young people are better persons today because of his dedication to youth in our community.” Claudia Cummins (TSA State Manager Family Violence NSW): “On behalf of the TSA NSW and National Family Violence teams, I acknowledge the incredible leadership Trevor provided as Program Manager of Catherine Haven. Trevor was passionate and persevering in addressing homelessness and family violence in Broken Hill, and this commitment has been recognised across Salvos, with partners, funders and, of course, local community members. Throughout my time working with him over the past 12 months, I have been struck by Trevor’s dedication to the local community, the Catherine Haven service and his team, of whom he has always been so proud (and rightly so). I am grateful to have witnessed some of the ways he brought joy to the whole team, as well as, most importantly, being a supportive manager and mentor. We send our thoughts to Trevor’s family and our gratitude to him for his remarkable legacy.”

Leongatha Corps Officer Captain Amanda Hart and Joe Licciardi are pleased with the social benefits that will flow from a partnership between the Salvos and Leongatha business Joe the Barista to provide cups of kindness to community members in need. One customer’s generosity has inspired an arrangement between Leongatha’s Joe the Barista cafe and the local Salvation Army in the South Gippsland Shire of Victoria to enable people to provide someone with a ‘Cup of Kindness’. “The customer said she wanted to give somebody else her free coffee off her loyalty card,” Joe Licciardi said. “Then we thought, what if we could give people the option to buy a coffee for someone they didn’t know, just to give something back.” When contemplating how to implement the idea and determine who would receive the pay-it-forward coffees, Joe approached the Leongatha Salvation Army. It was decided to create Cup of Kindness cards, which look much like coffee loyalty cards. People can choose to shout someone a small or large coffee, with the size then marked on one of the new cards. Joe then gives the cards to The Salvation Army to distribute to those in need through its Emergency Relief service. “Coffee is one of the first things that goes if people are struggling financially,” Leongatha Corps Officer Captain Amanda Hart said. Increasing costs of living have led to the Leongatha Salvos team seeing new people coming for assistance, as well as familiar faces. “It’s a big step to walk in the door and ask for help,” Amanda said. The Emergency Relief service enables people to obtain food, with the chance to have a chat. “In those conversations, we then have an opportunity to say, ‘Would you like a free coffee?’, so I think it’s a great partnership,” Amanda said. “No one should have to put up with instant coffee,” she added, noting that with increased social isolation since COVID-19, there is also an important social element to people going out for coffee and mixing with others. Those keen to shout someone a coffee have the choice between a $4.50 small cup or a $5.50 large. Joe the Barista is located in the Leongatha Health Food store at 33 Bair Street. Article and photo reprinted with permission from the South Gippsland Sentinel Times

Celebrated in over 170 countries, the World Day of Prayer promotes ‘Informed Prayer and Prayerful Action’. The movement brings together people of various races, cultures and traditions in a yearly common Day of Prayer, as well as in closer fellowship, understanding and action throughout the year. This year, The Salvation Army will join Christians around the globe to pray for Taiwan. Resources now available on mySalvos >> Learn more: www.worlddayofprayeraustralia.org/

To read the tribute, click here

The Australia Territory’s new Secretary for Communications, Colonel Rodney Walters. BY GRACE ANDREWS COLONEL RODNEY WALTERS is a fifth-generation Salvationist who has served in Australia, Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia over more than three decades. Here, we get to know more about Rodney, his journey, and his new appointment as our Secretary for Communications. What was your journey to The Salvation Army? Why did you decide to become an officer? Growing up with officer parents, I enjoyed my worship and service in The Salvation Army but wanted to work independently and support the Army with my tithes and donations. Through my devotions and commitment to know him more, God broke into my life, and even though my professional career was developing well, God was stirring within me something I couldn’t deny, and that was his calling to full-time service. How many years have you been in officership and where have you served? I commenced training in 1983 and was commissioned and ordained in early 1985. My wife (Wendy) and I have served in five corps appointments over the years: Palm Beach, Marrickville, Macksville, Chatswood and Bundamba corps. I have also served as Divisional Youth and Candidates Secretary, Divisional Secretary and Divisional Commander, in the Sydney West Division, South Queensland Division and Central and North Queensland Division. From 1993, my wife and I held international appointments in the Russia/CIS Command, where we were responsible for North Russia, based in St Petersburg, and then Command Youth, Property and Transportation Secretary, based in Moscow but serving in Russia, Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova. From 2012, I was Chief Secretary to the Eastern Europe Territory (Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova and Romania), followed by Territorial Commander. Most recently (2018-22), I served as Territorial Commander for the Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar Territory with Thailand [waiting for its registration], before returning to Australia late last year, where I was appointed as Secretary for Communications. What has been the most memorable appointment or moment in your officership? Every appointment has been memorable, and I have appreciated the learning required and the engagements with people and communities. Of course, Wendy and I have been stretched when entering territories where English wasn’t the first language, but by God’s grace, we were able to adapt and learn. Prayer has been our daily strength and resource. God has provided protection, provision, grace, forgiveness, love, words, silence and wonderful people with us to share the journey. For those that may not know, what does the Secretary for Communications spend their time doing? My role is to spearhead all matters relating to or incorporated in Communications, but not IT, on behalf of Territorial Leadership. In no set order, it relates to internal communications, public media in all its forms, public and government relations, fundraising and branding. I am also the Editor in Chief. My responsibilities are to enable, resource, empower, share critical information, and most importantly, make sure the representations made on behalf of The Salvation Army are in line with our values and mission. What would people never guess you do in this appointment? I preach, when invited; attend meetings regarding management and mission, and have a strong passion to see our workplace reflect Christ-like living and engagement. What is your favourite part about serving at The Salvation Army? I have loved engaging with people, listening to their stories, sharing their journey of life and walking alongside them in some little way during our appointments and beyond, where possible. What excites you most about the future of the movement? God is in the work of renewal. I love that he renews me, strengthens me and recharges me with the Fire of the Holy Spirit so that I can be fully engaged in what he has for me. The Army has so many opportunities to embrace the future and I love the boldness being seen by many to step into that future with God. What do you like to do in your spare time? I try, where possible, to give more than 100 per cent to what I am doing. So, when I get the opportunity for spare time, besides rest, I like driving, enjoying a good meal, a good movie, time with my wife, family and friends and, where possible, travelling. You’re happiest when …? ​​​​​​​I think I am happiest when I am engaged with what I love, and that is my calling. Please don’t misunderstand me. My family are part of my calling, my friends and relatives are part of my calling, and my ministry and my service are all part of my calling because I gave my life to the Lord for him to use and bless. I am a happy man.

Road to Redemption is a free ebook that will guide Salvationists through the overarching story of the Bible. Have you ever tried to read the Bible straight through? You may have run out of gas by Leviticus or been bewildered by the prophetic writings of Daniel. Did you puzzle over the meaning of the Psalms or sigh with relief when you hit the Gospels? Could you disentangle the Apostle Paul’s letters or decipher the mesmerising imagery in Revelation? The good news is that the Bible is easier to understand when viewed as an overarching drama, from Genesis to Revelation. Max Sturge’s Road to Redemption: Tracing God’s Rescue Plan Through His Mission People is a primer that deftly guides readers through God’s mission story of redeeming fallen humanity, first through Israel and then through Jesus and the birth of the church. In the pages of Scripture, we see our own brokenness and need for God’s saving grace and experience the magnificent sweep of salvation history from creation to new creation. Major Max Sturge served for 41 years as a passionate teacher, preacher and officer in The Salvation Army, including 27 years in corps ministry and six years in biblical studies and theology at the College for Officer Training in St John’s, Canada. His first book, Miraculous Healing (2015), explored the perplexing questions of suffering and God’s intervention in our world. Through Road to Redemption , Max aims to further enhance people’s knowledge and appreciation of the Bible and its Author. Max and his wife, Doreen, delight in their three children and their families, including six grandchildren. The Sturges live in Guelph, Ontario, where they enjoy walking its many trails. Dr Yau Man Siew, from Tyndale Seminary in Toronto, gives the book glowing praise: “ Road to Redemption is an excellent study guide, which meets an important need in the church. A wonderful piece of work.” General Brian Peddle, International Leader of The Salvation Army, and a fellow Canadian, said: “There are occasions when you read something, and you say, ‘I wish I had written that!’ Road to Redemption convicted me again of the truth of Scripture, convinced me even more regarding God’s longing to rescue a broken world, and compelled me to do my part in that global mission.” Road To Redemption is available for free download by visiting https://salvationist.ca/editorial/triumphpublishing/road-to-redemption/ This review was originally published in The Officer magazine

The gorgeous Gouldian finch is endangered; one of many such species in this position. BY MAJOR MELANIE-ANNE HOLLAND I’m a birdwatcher, from a family of avid birdwatchers. For as long as I can remember, my family has travelled with a copy of The Readers Digest Complete Book of Australian Birds . Our eyes have been trained to observe the distant flutters of birds, noting their colour and form, in the perpetual hunt for new species. Parents, siblings, children, cousins, aunts and uncles have all been co-opted into our enthusiastic (perhaps competitive) quest. I love birds, and their diversity is a source of joy for me. The World Wildlife Fund describes biodiversity as “all the different kinds of life you’ll find in one area – the variety of animals, plants, fungi, and even micro-organisms like bacteria, that make up our natural world. Each of these species and organisms works together in ecosystems, like an intricate web, to maintain balance and support life.” Intentional diversity The diversity of life all around us is spectacular and awe-inspiring, not just in terms of the variety of plants and animals but also the variety within each species. And from a faith perspective, this biodiversity is intentional and purposeful. Not only is God the source, or Creator, of all the diversity we observe, he is constantly engaged with the world around us. Psalm 104 in the Bible is a song about God’s ongoing relationship with the world. It tells of God as the one who forms ecosystems and provides the different species of animals with all they need. God lovingly and attentively gives rhythms of life, rest, boundaries, homes, water, food and breath to the creatures around us. Each animal, with its unique needs and contribution, is valuable to God. The black-throated finch is an endangered species that needs our protection. Can we do without a species? Is any species ‘disposable’ or less valuable? Can we live in a world without wild koalas or platypuses or black-throated finches? How about the species we find less endearing, like mice or mosquitoes? Apart from the profound loss of species, each extinction is like pulling at a thread in a jumper and waiting for the whole garment to unravel. Each loss can cascade into another. In our Australian context, we are challenged by how much of our unique wildlife is under threat of extinction from habitat destruction, introduced species, pollution and climate change. Two hundred and seventy-seven species of birds, mammals, fish, frogs, reptiles and other animals have been identified as endangered or critically endangered. Any species lost would be a tragedy. Yesterday was in fact 2023 World Wildlife Day , and this year’s theme is ‘Partnerships for Wildlife Conservation’. We are encouraged to work together in a concerted effort to create and sustain healthy ecosystems, wildlife populations and biodiversity. We each have a part to play. Wherever you are as you read this reflection today, take a moment to see what animals you share the space with. From the tropics to the snowfields, from the mangroves and beaches to vast arid places, the diversity of wildlife around you is a precious testament to the caring, attentive presence of God. And the God who delights in them also cares for you. What you can do • Buy only sustainably sourced products (seafood, timber products and the like). • Stop using pesticides in the garden. • Plant locally endemic plants that belong in the area, to increase habitat for birds, insects, frogs, reptiles and small mammals in your neighbourhood. • Join a bush regeneration group or host a tree-planting event in your community. • Keep plastic waste and other rubbish out of waterways and the ocean through local clean-up events. Major Melanie-Anne Holland is a Salvation Army officer (pastor) in NSW. She also holds a Bachelor of Environmental Science (Hons).

In the third week of Self Denial, we see the life-changing work of The Salvation Army’s Lae Street School in Papua New Guinea. Thanks to the dedication of teacher Stanley and former student Gillie, children who would otherwise miss out on getting an education can attend school. The theme for the Self Denial Appeal 2023 is ‘A Gift from the Heart’. It encourages us to consider the blessings we have from God and how we can use them to bless others. Funds raised will support the work of the international Salvation Army and impact lives with the love of Jesus. To find out more and donate, visit selfdenial.info

Major Gavin Watts (left), Queensland Divisional Commander, on the barbeque at the Man Cave breakfast at Maroochydore Corps. By CLIFF WORTHING How do you turn a corps into a home? Maroochydore Corps on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast thinks they have hit on a winning formula. “We have created multiple ways in which our community are just able to talk about their day,” said Tara Paterson, Maroochydore and Noosa Community Engagement Worker. “We don’t treat them like they are a problem to be fixed.” Tara Paterson, Maroochydore Community Engagement Worker. Tara explained that when they have community meals, they aim to provide “coming-home meals”, unlike service delivery. “The proper meal provides dignity and a chance for connection,” Tara said. “Our biggest success is when people talk to each other, share information about getting on with life, and forget themselves.” A young, local tradesperson who needs to camp while saving for a rental bond shared how most people are scared to talk to him. He said he feels like a “normal person” when he comes to the corps, where he can talk and connect. The corps ‘Man Cave’ provides weekly breakfast for about 40 community men. Some may be retired, working, or at risk of homelessness but want company. Many come early to chat, enjoy a hearty breakfast and play games such as pool, darts, slot machines, PlayStation or Xbox. They have named the corps ‘Switzerland’ because it is neutral territory, and fights aren’t allowed while there! The corps also provides a Sunday breakfast so the community can connect, participate in Sunday worship, or play games out the back. Someone is always available to chat with families and individuals during the church service. “Having one-on-one conversations out the back is a great ministry and is going gangbusters,” said Major Bruce Ellicott, Maroochydore Corps Officer. “We show them the love of Jesus by being consistent and loving them as they are,” Bruce said. “We plant seeds of hope, and over time they open up. We get to solve the problems of the world over a coffee.” On Wednesdays, ‘Coffee and Chat’ provides a space for people using Doorways to enjoy each other’s company and a lovely morning tea. “Morning tea often encroaches very close to lunchtime because everyone wants, and needs, to chat so much,” Tara said. “Basically, all we do is create a space for connection and let things happen.” Local pool sharks – Lyn, Chris, and Michelle. According to Tara, Bruce and his wife, Majors Helen Ellicott, are crucial factors in creating safe and welcoming spaces for the community. “They make themselves available for people to chat; they run the show, cook the barbeque, pack up and down, and are usually the last to leave,” Tara said. “It really isn’t that hard. You don’t need to be an evangelist, counsellor, or Bible scholar,” Bruce said. “We give people dignity, do the best we can to help, and God will do his thing!” Additional support is provided by a trained counsellor to talk through solutions and next steps and suggest referral pathways to services such as Moneycare financial counselling or Doorways program to address drug and alcohol use. “We create a hospitable entrance point which makes it comfortable for the community to engage,” Tara said. “We give time, and space, for people to tell their stories, to celebrate, or grieve, and chat about the next steps.”

NSW/ACT Divisional Commander Captain Kim Haworth looks bemused as she is characterised as Wonder Woman in a lighter moment during the official welcome at Wollongong Corps on Sunday 5 March. Photos: Kyle Walker Captains Kim and Steve Haworth were officially welcomed to the NSW/ACT Division during a special ceremony at Wollongong Corps on Sunday 5 March. Kim, the new Divisional Commander, and Steve, the new Area Officer for Sydney, took up their roles last month after serving for the past few years in Tasmania, where Kim was the Divisional Commander. The previous leader of the NSW/ACT Division, Commissioner Miriam Gluyas, was installed as the new Territorial Commander of Australia last month. Wollongong Corps Officer Lieutenant-Colonel Lyn Edge led the welcome meeting on Sunday, with the band, songsters and worship band taking part before the Haworths were invited to the platform. Area Officer for the Hunter-Central Coast region, Major Mark Everitt, who has been in the role of acting Divisional Commander, gave the first of several welcome speeches, expressing sentiments on behalf of the NSW/ACT Division. Major Mark Everitt welcomes the Haworths on behalf of the NSW/ACT Division. “For nearly a decade, Commissioner Miriam Gluyas led this division with passion and compassion and courage,” he said. “I would often say to Miriam: ‘Who are we going to find to replace you? You are a force of nature!’ But you know, God has relieved my fear because now we have Kim and Steve, and I am overjoyed to see them join our team here in NSW/ACT. I am certain that Kim will lead with passion and compassion and courage – and Steve brings strength to compliment the couple, and they will lead us well.” Divisional ‘superheroes’ This was followed by an entertaining Corps Welcome by soldier Joe McIver and his daughter Georgia, who displayed several images on the wall of Kim and Steve’s faces overlaid on DC and Marvel superhero characters, including Superman, Wonder Woman and Ironman. Georgia McIver and her dad Joe welcome 'DC' Captain Kim Haworth and the 'Justice League'. “Lieut-Colonel Lyn asked dad and me to do the welcome for the new DC. So, I decided to do some research on DCs, and I would like to show you the results,” Georgia said. When Superman appeared with Kim’s face, Georgia said: “This DC hero represents strength and resilience ... and can fly!” When Kim as Wonder Woman appeared, Georgia said: “This DC hero represents honesty, bravery and is an all-around tough woman. You go girl!” Joe then displayed a picture of ironman with Steve’s head overlaid but was reprimanded by Georgia for choosing a Marvel hero instead of a DC hero. Georgia said: “I discovered that all heroes don’t wear capes, and some wear a Salvation Army uniform ... thank you, Kim and Steve, for joining our ‘Justice League’” as an image of DC’s Justice League appeared with the faces of the Haworths and the Wollongong corps officers overlaid. Joe concluded: “So, on behalf of the Wollongong Corps and the NSW/ACT Division, we welcome you both, and we pray that God will continue to bless you in your ministry as you lead us, and we really look forward to that leadership.” Special gifts Major Fran Everitt, Area Officer for the Hunter-Central Coast region, then presented gifts to the Haworths, including a beautiful bunch of flowers and a Rabbitohs footy shirt and hat each, reflecting that the Haworths’ office building at Redfern in Sydney is shared with the South Sydney rugby league club. Major Fran Everitt presents the Haworths with Rabbitohs merchandise because they will be working in South Sydney Rugby League Club territory. “Kim and Steve are both about relationships and building relationships,” said Fran. “I’ve grown to love Kim as a fun, loving, caring, beautiful heart spiritually ... and is all about connecting people to Jesus, and that is what we want in a divisional leader. The legacy that Miriam has left will continue. We are in good hands, and we are blessed.” Steve was then invited to speak: “Kim and I feel blessed to be here, where God has called us to be. The love and support we have received since arriving has been overwhelming. We were sad to leave Tasmania, but God’s plan has been for us to come to NSW/ACT, to say yes to the call he has placed on both our lives ... and that ‘yes’ is not always easy. “But Kim and I come with a heart to serve and a heart to grow the Kingdom of God, to be Jesus-centred and spirit-led, and to walk alongside each of you and to work together for his name’s sake.” God’s people Lieutenant-Colonel Lyn Edge then prayed before Kim gave the message, based on a phrase the Spirit gave her through Genesis 12: “Be the people of God that you were always intended to be.” Wollongong Corps Officer Lieut-Colonel Lyn Edge prays over the Haworths at the end of the welcome ceremony. “We need the presence of God in our lives if we are to be the people of God. We can only do the things he has called us to do if we have his presence. It’s not enough that we know about God ... we need to really know him relationally,” Kim continued. “We need to think and act in unity. I believe the Lord is moving on unity in his Church. The world offers us a counterfeit unity ... which often results in a war of words ... but God’s heart is for us to be unified. The word of the Lord says that unity brings a blessing. Many verses talk about a unity, that we would be one, so that world will know that he lives.” A time of fellowship in the corps café and foyer was held after the service for the congregation to greet the Haworths and personally welcome them to the division.