Search Results

By KIRRALEE NICOLLE When Lieutenant Graham Kennedy was conducting funerals in a Church of England parish in the UK several years ago, he had an encounter that sparked a new idea for ministry. The parish was hosting back-to-back funerals, and Graham said he had only an hour to reset the room for the next service. While he was rearranging the room, he noticed a woman who had been at the first funeral sitting in the hall. “I approached her and asked, ‘Do you know the next people as well?’ because I was thinking to myself how unfortunate this lady was to know two people to have passed away and attend two funerals on the same day?” he said. “She said ‘No. I don’t really know the next people and I only vaguely knew the last person, but I’ve got nowhere to go. I don’t want to go home. I’ve got my favourite chair in the corner of my room. I lost my husband a few years ago and all I do is sit in that chair and stare at the dark’.” This conversation prompted Graham to start a community cafe in the church hall, which quickly grew popular. When Graham returned to Australia and accepted a posting in Ballarat, Central Victoria, with The Salvation Army, he decided to begin a similar program. At the start of July, Cafe@102 launched at Ballarat Salvos. In the first week, 250 people came for a meal, a cup of coffee and a chat. The cafe offers clientele the chance to give a gold coin donation to cover costs, but Graham said some gave more generously. “People here are happy to pay it forward,” he said. “We’ve had $20 notes put in there as well as the gold coins. But if people can’t afford it, they know they’re welcome to just sit and enjoy with us.” Graham said the demographic of Ballarat tended towards high unemployment and that rental and mortgage stress was starting to wear on local residents. He said he had been discussing rate rises with homeowners visiting the cafe who were experiencing the shock of sudden increases in repayments. “I’ve noticed on Marketplace people are selling their second car and it’s staying on the market for a long time,” he said. “You can see the prices are dropping and people are desperate.” Graham said the cafe featured a full commercial kitchen with a large coffee machine, and that the atmosphere in the room was warm. “People come in and they instantly feel welcome,” he said. “You’ve got that low constant chatter as well, and I think that’s what opens people up. It feels very human in there.”

A sudden, still largely unexplained fire has caused the temporary closure of the Cranbourne Salvation Army Corps in southeast Melbourne, Victoria. The fire, believed to be caused by an electrical fault, was first detected at 9.20am on Monday 24 July, after staff and volunteers found smoke in a hallway outside the Doorways centre. The fire began in an electrical box in a storeroom, spread into the worship centre and two meeting rooms and filled the entire building with smoke. Fortunately, no one was injured in the fire. Fire trucks rapidly arrived on the scene and controlled the fire before it spread beyond the property. Corps Officer Captain David Allman said the damage was extensive despite the building being largely in good order. He said where the fire didn’t cause direct damage, there was smoke and water damage to walls, doors and ceilings. “[The fire] wrecked one meeting room, partially damaged another one and damaged part of the wall and the ceiling of the worship centre,” he said. “You can’t have any power on, heating [or] internet because it’s all been burnt.” With the building now unusable and repairs unlikely to be completed until December, Sunday services are occurring in the Casey Grammar School chapel next door to the corps. Corps staff are also seeking alternate locations to host Doorways and other services. “The fact that we’ve managed to get some things [relocated], even after a week, it’s been positive,” David said. “The rest will just have to [wait].” – Kirralee Nicolle Photos of the fire damage to Cranbourne Corps (click for slideshow of photos):

By KIRRALEE NICOLLE What happens when you put brass players, singers, visual artists and multimedia specialists together in a prison? Sounds like the beginning of a spectacular musical number. When The Salvation Army’s Worship Arts team did just that, what they got was inspirational. Over 90 attendees gathered at Melbourne’s historic Pentridge Prison Arts Precinct from 21-23 July to learn how best to utilise worship arts to build community engagement and create faith pathways. The event resulted from a collaborative effort between Social Mission, Community Engagement and individual corps. Worship Arts Coordinator for Community Engagement Jason Simmonds said the event was already garnering positive feedback from attendees keen to learn more. “We primarily wanted to inspire and mobilise creatives within The Salvation Army to utilise their art, their craft, their music [and] their creative practice in missional ways, and I think we achieved that,” he said. Jason said the conference also allowed for networking opportunities following the isolation of COVID-19 and brought together creatives from various backgrounds and skill sets to reimagine what integrated mission might look like in a post-pandemic world. “The vehicle of the arts is the perfect way to raise the profile of the mission of The Salvation Army to care for people, build healthy communities, work for justice and create faith pathways,” he said. The conference featured presentations from new and emerging creative minds, as well as paying homage to the creative history of The Salvation Army. Melbourne Salvation Army Museum Manager Lindsay Cox gave a presentation on the theatrical history of The Salvation Army in Australia through the work of the Federation-era Limelight Department. Other presenters included Music Give Life co-founder Andy Horneman, Head of Community Engagement Major Brad Watson, UK Mission Partner in Music and Creative Arts Daniel Elson and co-authors of ‘Walking with Communities’ Ian Campbell and Alison Rader Campbell. Alongside these presentations was live music from guest artists Tania G, Andrew Naylor, Alinta Burnell and Melbourne Contemporary Choir. The conference also featured a presentation on an Alzheimer’s friendly choir titled ‘Singing by Heart’, which sparked great interest from delegates. In addition, the event had presentations from dance, poetry and spoken word artists. The Just Brass team held workshops featuring musician and educationalist Sue Wedding alongside a live podcast recording and creative arts therapy presentation. Songwriter and Worship Arts Coordinator Daniel Casey attended the conference and said he believed the nature of content being produced by creatives was a vital sign of church health. “I think revival is always led by the creatives,” he said. “This conference has been a beautiful reflection of different creative arts and expressions all coming together as one in unity and purpose.” To learn more about the conference and Community Arts Engagement, visit https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/artsengagement/

Tonight, the city of Launceston in Tasmania will have more than 25 additional people sleeping rough to those usually on the streets, including Mayor of Launceston Matthew Garwood. For only the second time in Launceston, the Salvos SleepOut will be held on 3 August to raise funds for The Salvation Army’s Street 2 Home program and increase awareness of the realities of sleeping rough. The Salvation Army hopes to raise $150,000 across the state through the SleepOut initiative and is assisted in this by major sponsor Launceston City Council. Launceston Corps Officer Auxiliary-Lieutenant Roderick Brown told The Examiner newspaper that approximately 250 to 300 people could be found regularly sleeping rough in Launceston. “The volume of people approaching us for assistance is growing, and that illustrates that increasing number,” Roderick said. Funds raised in the campaign will be directed to the Street 2 Home program, which operates across Launceston and Hobart. Applicants to the SleepOut campaign must raise at least $100 to participate in the initiative, and over 25 people have signed up to participate this year in Launceston. The Hobart SleepOut will be held the following week, on 10 August. – Kirralee Nicolle Some information sourced from The Examiner newspaper.

General Brian and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, world leaders of The Salvation Army from 2018 to 2023, officially retired at midnight on 2 August (GMT). The next world leaders, General Elect Lyndon and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries), take up their new roles today (3 August). Prior to returning to their native Canada, where family and retirement await, the Peddles recorded a final Facebook video as world leaders for The Salvation Army. You can read their words, or click on the video, below. General Brian: Greetings friends and supporters. We are coming to you for a final time as your international leaders. On each Saturday for the past five years, it has been a privilege to share our thoughts, reflect on our convictions, and at times explore how we feel about momentous events that were happening and how we, as The Salvation Army, find our place and serve effectively. We want to say thank you for your warm response and the assurances that you have given us of your love and prayers. You might not know this, but every comment has been read and appreciated. Commissioner Rosalie: One of the great privileges that has been ours is to travel and meet many of you. We have valued so much being able to embrace and love the Army and to feel that same embrace and love reciprocated. We missed that during two years of COVID. Apart from losing many officers and soldiers to COVID, our loss during this time was not being with you. Reaching out via social media was not the same, though we thank God for technology. That is why, over the past year and a half, we have visited 35 territories. The best news in this effort is that we can proclaim that God is faithful. General Brian: Even during these final days, we are calling the Army, and especially our officers and soldiers, to be captivated by a call to mission. We believe that God has uniquely gifted the Army and that gifting enables us to participate and always turn ourselves towards people in need. We recognise that such compassion is costly and, always as we ‘serve the cups of cold water’, we eagerly seek a moment to share our faith and invite others to join us in a dynamic relationship with God. Nothing is more important than celebrating individuals being welcomed into the Kingdom. Commissioner Rosalie: I have had a unique opportunity as the World President for Women’s Ministries. My concern for women and girls has not wavered, and that is why we took a bold step in ‘Re-imagining’ what Women’s Ministries can be. I still encourage us to dream big in this important area of ministry. I also bring your attention to the recent launch of the Battle Cry as Women’s Ministries engaged more intentionally in social justice issues in health, education and domestic violence. We are asking God to give us a clear focus and vision as we move forward in making a difference in these areas for women and girls. General Brian: We want everyone to know that we love the Army because God demonstrates daily his love and care for this movement. We believe our Army, raised up by God, stands in a position of strength. As a result, we can be salt and light. Throughout every engagement we have had with others, we are convinced that it is our call to mission that makes us a witness in the world. So again, I remind you that God is inviting us to join him in his mission to redeem the world. Never forget that this is our primary goal as we reflect the Glory of God. We do that best when we serve the God we love. Commissioner Rosalie: Across 134 countries, the Army serves. Thank you for being that Army. Thank you to all who stand with us. Together, and by God’s grace, anything is possible. Our verse that we want to give each of you today is Isaiah 41:10 – “So do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you by my righteous right hand.” General Brian: On 2 August, we will fly home to Toronto, Canada, where we plan to be good soldiers and continue our service as followers of our Saviour and Lord. We leave you in the capable hands of our friends and colleagues, General Elect Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham. May God bless you. May God bless The Salvation Army.

BY SIMONE WORTHING The Salvation Army in the Northern Territory recently launched its inaugural ‘Sail for the Salvos’ fundraiser with the Darwin Sailing Club. On a perfect ‘dry season’ afternoon last month, five yacht owners departed the Cullen Bay marina to sail for a few hours with individuals or business teams who had ‘purchased’ their yacht for a few hours on the water. “This was a unique experience for everyone,” said Sally Courtney, the Army’s Public Relations manager in the Northern Territory. “The yacht owners had donated the use of their yachts, as well as their time, hospitality and sailing expertise, to help raise money for the Salvos. One hundred per cent of the money from the ‘sale’ of the yachts went to The Salvation Army, as all costs to run the event were covered through sponsorship. “Ben Campion, manager of The Salvation Army’s House 49, ‘bought’ a yacht and sold it to staff, colleagues and friends. “Everyone enjoyed the almost three hours of sailing and the warm hospitality of the yacht owners and their crew. A beautiful sunset topped off the experience. Everyone, including more friends, partners and Salvos staff, met up at the Darwin Sailing Club afterwards for presentations, a silent auction and dinner. “The event put the Salvos on the map with an influential group of people who see and support what we do. We appreciate the generosity of those who give to the Salvos, but when people give their time as well, such as the yacht owners preparing their yachts and taking people sailing, it’s extra special. “This wonderful and enjoyable fundraiser would not have been possible without the support of key members from the Darwin Sailing Club, our principal sponsor Halikos Construction and Synacoglobal's sponsorship.” The event raised over $10,000 for The Salvation Army. Sally had been organising the event for almost a year. “We have been working closely with major donors,” Sally explained. “One of them, who generously gives the Salvos cheques twice a year, is a member of the Darwin Sailing Club and owns a yacht. He was interested in the idea of a sailing event and spoke to club members, who also showed interest. “I ‘sold’ the yachts to groups of 10, mainly business teams, who bought the experience. We supplied the catering. “We are already planning for June next year – a better month on the Darwin calendar – and already have interest from our business supporters, members of Parliament and councillors. We’ll also open it up to more Salvos staff and friends. “Watch this space for 2024 ‘Sail for the Salvos’, to take place in September!”

A British Christmas was the theme for a recent multicultural event at Calamvale Salvos, west of Brisbane. “The church hosts two multicultural nights each year to validate people from that culture in our community and church, said Major Di Gluyas, Calamvale Corps Officer. “We want to show them how valued they are and to celebrate and learn about their culture. “For our winter event, we focused on Christmas. Guests were greeted on arrival with the uniquely flavoured dandelion and burdock soft drink. The food was also English – roast turkey or beef, Yorkshire puddings, gravy, vegetables, with plum pudding and custard for dessert. “Family and friends were invited to attend, and it was great to see so many new faces. The hall was done up like an English home at Christmas. We had a special visit from King Charles (stand-in) for the annual Christmas speech, family games, great food and many laughs. Calamvale Salvos is about faith, family and fun. “It was also a great opportunity to be educated on England and to celebrate and validate our English church family members.” Last year, the church hosted an Indian and a Tongan night, complete with traditional food, decorations, national dress, games and music. An African cultural celebration is to be held later this year, and an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander event is planned for 2024. The Calamvale area is home to people from around the world, including African nations, China, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, New Zealand, Russia, Singapore and Tonga.

To read the tribute, click here

How can we share Jesus, help people and encourage others to come to church? Join Commissioner Miriam Gluyas as she shares an afternoon with junior soldiers Emily and Wesley, discussing some of the things that are ‘really important’ to young people in The Salvation Army these days.

By CLIFF WORTHING The North Queensland women’s retreat on the Atherton Tablelands lived up to its theme of ‘Refresh’, according to Major Michelle Oliver, Area Officer – North Queensland. “It was refreshing at so many levels,” Michelle said. “It was a simple format with lots of time to reflect, spare time for relationships, and even to have a good sleep.” Guest speaker Karen Lattouf, Leadership Development Specialist, led the 32 participants through some of the lessons from the biblical story of Esther. She focused on surrendering to God, faith in God and courage. “Everyone has to deal with something challenging in life,” Karen said. “In Esther, we have an iconic female character whose example is so relevant to us today.” Held over the weekend of 21-23 July, the group enjoyed a trip to the Yungaburra Markets and a royalty-themed fun evening on Saturday night. “Up north, we are hardcore and serious about dress-ups,” Michelle said. Lisa Lawlor, Townsville Faithworks Community Engagement Worker, created a pencil drawing of Queen dress-ups for the silent auction to raise funds for ‘Making it Happen’ – the territorial project to build officers’ quarters in the Solomon Islands. The auction and donations raised about $1400 for the project. “This was a real retreat, with a chance to step back from daily pressures, hear from God, and connect with self, in an exceptional setting, with beautiful times of worship,” Karen said. For more information on the Making it Happen project and how you can support it, go to: https://my.salvos.org.au/making-it-happen/

To read tribute report, click here

BY CLIFF WORTHING What would you say if someone rang you to ask if you wanted a fully operational cafe, rent-free? For Captain Matt Gluyas, Corps Officer at Noosa-Coolum on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, the answer was an emphatic “Yes!” THRIVE Noosa cafe, a partnership between Noosa-Coolum Corps, the local Harcourts Real Estate and Padre Coffee, officially opened its doors to the community on Saturday 23 July. About 200 people attended the opening event in support of the Salvos social enterprise. “I just want to see young people get an opportunity,” said Nathan O’Neill, one of the managing directors of Harcourts Property Centre I Noosa. “I started my real estate business at a young age from almost nothing, got help along the way, and see this as a chance to give back.” Nathan is a member of the corps Red Shield Appeal advisory group, so he knew about the corps’ focus on training young people struggling with traditional education systems with career and life skills. When the opportunity to take over the cafe’s lease, he saw the potential to enhance the work of the Salvos. “Through the generosity of Harcourts Noosa, we are able to see the trajectory of young lives shift to one where they are thriving in a career,” Matt said. “We believe we will see many lives transformed through THRIVE Noosa.” The cafe initiative aims to train students to work in the local hospitality industry as a career, raise funds for the corps SCILS (Sunshine Coast Individualised Learning Support) program to re-engage students in education, and create a community space for people to gather. “We are empowering a generation to really thrive,” Matt said. Padre Coffee Roasters supplies the coffee and barista training support as another organisation in the partnership. “This is a great concept, and I just want to see what can be achieved,” said Nathan. “What Matt is doing is phenomenal, and he deserves a lot of credit for how he goes about creating partnerships in the community.”