The air is buzzing with excitement amongst young students at Queensland’s Salvation Army Independent School – and all for good reason. The young people have embarked on new and thrilling endeavours alongside their local corps that are empowering them to seize life’s opportunities, as Salvos Online journalist LERISSE SMITH discovered. It all began one momentous day at the crisp hour of 4.30am. Waking up for what was going to be an extraordinary day in his life, a talented student who was completely non-verbal when he first enrolled at the school prepared to speak for the first time at the Pine Rivers Red Shield Appeal launch breakfast. And he nailed it. “For a child who’s had such a negative experience in other schooling systems to get up in front of people and be able to share some of his personal journey was just huge, it was so big – and he nailed it,” said Auxiliary-Lieutenant Alli Holland, Corps Officer at Pine Rivers. “And he’s been on a high since.” Extending an invitation to the student to speak at the big event, hosted annually by Leader of the Opposition Peter Dutton, was a top priority for Alli and her husband, Auxiliary-Lieutenant Liam, who described the partnership between The Salvation Army Independent School and their corps as “a beautiful one.” The Hollands are constantly inspired by the students and how the young man who spoke at the breakfast event arose at 4.30am and waited until 6.30am to ensure he arrived on time. “He combed his hair and walked down to make sure he could be there on time. It wasn’t so much what he said as the change in his posture, his smile and his confidence. He had just grown,” Alli said. “To see him when he first started speaking, where he was a little bit agitated, and his leg was kind of twitching, to by the end where he was so confident was so inspirational.” Ask any young person what they want out of life, and often the response will be simple – to reach their full potential. And thanks to the exciting partnership between the school, which supports students who are, or have been, disengaged from mainstream education, and Pine Rivers, the young people are indeed on the journey to reaching their full potential. “We used to go over to the school to use their kitchen and serve breakfast, but now the tables have turned thanks to an exciting new Service Learning model where students come across to the corps to help serve breakfast and coffee to our community members,” Alli said. “It has been a really lovely launchpad from us providing something for them to them coming on board and going what can we do together, which I really love.” The ‘doing something together’ has seen the students learn the art of being a barista, of making a great coffee, from grinding the beans to using the machine tamp. The corps has 70 to 90 community members on Tuesdays and Thursdays for breakfast and lunch. “We flip a lot of pancakes!” Alli said. Students have helped with a Mother’s Day High Tea and fully catered for 250 people at a recent celebration of life event where tasty culinary delights of all sorts included an array of delicious sandwiches. Building lifelong skills The Service Learning Framework, intentionally linking the school students with the corps, has formed an integral part of supporting students at the school, which comprises one school and two campuses – Lawnton (North Brisbane) and Riverview (Ipswich). The Special Assistant School supports young people in accessing quality education and training programs from Years 10 to 12. School Principal Helen Boardman said the greatest benefit of the partnership was the strong relationship with the corps that enabled the students to participate in the learning framework. “This model allows students to ‘give back’ to the wider Salvation Army community and those in need of support in our community by working alongside the corps staff and volunteers to help with community support projects offered by the corps,” she said. “It builds skills aligned with empathy, compassion and generosity of time and spirit and demonstrates to our students that, alongside the support they receive, it is important to reciprocate the kindness shown to them by serving others in our wider community.” Alli agreed and said one of the interesting aspects that both she and Liam had noticed was the development and growth in confidence of the students they engaged with at their corps. They recalled another special occasion with a student who experienced a pivotal moment when he received a bike donated to the corps from a local business. It enabled him to have his own mode of transport – and helped to bring down his defences. After wearing a face mask and glasses for a long time, he finally took them off at his school graduation. Liam said the corps always loved to hear what the students were undertaking. “It’s so ingrained because it’s been done that way over the years, the conversation around what the students are doing at the moment, the celebration of seeing them grow and contribute and cheering them on as well,” he said. Alli added that their corps had a beautiful intergenerational relationship with the young students, which was mutually beneficial. “We love their energy and hearing about what they want to do when they finish school,” she said. “They sometimes get a family model that they may not have had, or people that are constantly looking out for them, and praying for them, and wanting what’s best for them and championing them. It’s just this beautiful dual relationship.” Creating communities Liam reflected it was also all about creating communities. The corps recently welcomed parents from the school and students, including community members from the local homeless community and some general faith community. “They were all sitting in a melting pot together, just talking and connecting together about life,” he said. “You just watch across a room and see how every part of them contributes to that conversation from as young as 16 through to a 90-year-old in the room, communicating together. It was pretty amazing to watch.” Cheryl Dunkley, the National Student Support Services Manager of Youth and Education, said the school shared their vision and passion with the Hollands and the opportunities to connect through the students helping serve at special events for parents and the school community. Describing the partnership as an organic transition and intentional between the two, Cheryl added there was a big focus on believing in their young people. “If you’ve got someone who believes in you, if you’ve got someone who can see potential, and you can draw that potential out in those young people, it’s liquid gold,” she said. “Because for some young people, that’s been pushed down, it’s been squashed. As humans, we tend to believe we won’t amount to anything, [and] we can’t do things. However, we know that for young people, if they have self-esteem, they can start to believe that what they thought was impossible, was possible.” A key encouragement for the staff is the students wanting to turn up to school and be involved in projects such as service learning. “They are turning up, which is awesome; it’s fantastic,” she said. “We’re talking about disengaged young people. It blows me away how we have young people that want to come to our school during school holidays. There’s so much going on for these young people. However, they’re coming to class. And these are students that haven’t been to mainstream school for maybe two years.” And what drives the students to attend school? “We all want to belong – it’s human nature to live in community and belong,” Cheryl said. “The school is a safe space for most of our young people. They have that feeling, that sense of belonging and purpose. Our school exists not just for the here and now but also for five to 10 years down the track to prepare our young people for life past the four walls, past the desks, the tables and the chairs. So, for our young people, it’s getting them ready so that they can be a part of their community, and the greater community and breaking the cycle. “The staff at our schools provide education, training and employment pathways as well as advocating for young people, especially those who do not have the support of an adult in their lives at home.” “There is so much potential in each and every one of them. Just coming alongside them and showing these young people what they can do, and plan for things in their future, giving them aspirations, giving them confidence.” Helen said the school staff advocated tirelessly for those who may not be aware of their rights in education or the available resources. Holistic approach “Young people who have missed large portions of school find it difficult to navigate through the job market, Centrelink services, the legal system and so on,” she said. “The staff at our schools provide education, training and employment pathways as well as advocating for young people, especially those who do not have the support of an adult in their lives at home.” Delivering a holistic approach to care incorporates a psychologically informed environment where all staff are trained in trauma and using strength-based language in restorative practice. There’s also an emphasis on numeracy and literacy, while Beyond Blue and Headspace services are used to assist students and staff on the topic of anxiety. Every student has an Individual Learning Plan, flexible options with the Queensland Certificate of Education, and a transition plan where students are followed up once they leave the school. A key focus is developing their social-emotional and vocational skills and preparing the students for further training or work. Additionally, the focus is on building resilience and the capacity to manage life skills, from managing a budget and healthy lifestyle to accommodation and navigating Centrelink. The students have also started a Certificate II in Self Awareness and Development. “We are encouraging our young people to start thinking about themselves as citizens,” Helen said. “To think about themselves in terms of being aware of themselves and other people around them, regulating their emotions, and all of those things that we know employers are looking for.” Looking to the future, many exciting projects are ahead for the school, which prioritises all students feeling valued, safe, and respected. “We are very excited about our future projects, which include the development of a community radio station, ‘You’re the Boss’ financial literacy program, Entrepreneurship Development and Barista Training,” Helen said. “These initiatives help ensure our school goes from strength to strength and support our students with 21st-century employability skills such as innovation, creativity, decision-making, problem-solving and improved communication.”

Simon shares his story of fleeing from Bhutan to Nepal as a child amidst severe political turmoil. His family faced much hardship — from living in a jungle tent battling malnutrition and disease to encountering discrimination as Christians in a place where they sought refuge. Simon and his family found safety and peace in Australia and Simon established the Nepali church community in Cairns (Qld). Simon says his greatest desire is to minister to the next generation and to see his family worshipping in the house of God.

Salvos Online journalist SIMONE WORTHING spoke to Major Karen Elkington, Manager of The Salvation Army’s Asylum Seeker and Refugee Service in Melbourne, about the hardship, heartbreak and mental health challenges faced by refugees and people seeking asylum. Karen reflected on the uncertainty thousands of people who seek protection experience while waiting for their protection claims to be assessed and the additional challenges they face due to community stigma and complex migration processes. Many refugees and people seeking asylum are anxiously awaiting the outcome of the recently proposed Migration Amendment (Removal and Other Measures) Bill 2024, otherwise known as ‘the Bill’. “The Bill and its possible ramifications are definitely ‘in the headlines’ in the asylum seeker and refugee space,” says Karen. “Our [Salvos] Policy and Advocacy team wrote a brilliant submission in opposition to this Bill*, as did many other legal, community and lived-experience advocates and organisations, due to the threats it poses to the wellbeing of refugees and people seeking asylum. As we wait to see whether the Bill is passed and becomes law, we are seeing the significant stress it is causing within our multicultural communities. “Basically, if this Bill gets through in its current form, it permits the expansion of government powers, including to criminalise anyone who does not comply with deportation directions (regardless of whether this is intentional), condone the separation of children and families through deportation, and implement a blanket ban which prohibits all visa applications from specific countries. Whether these actions are executed or not, it is concerning to suggest and that it may be made possible by legislation. This is causing incredible anxiety in our communities. “We are also noticing that the thousands of asylum seekers who have been in the country for over 10 years and have children born here can now apply for Australian citizenship for the children once they turn 10. The children can get a green Medicare card and, in the future, can vote, but they’re being raised in families who are still in immigration limbo.” Karen said many of these families can’t access the benefits for their children due to the complexity of navigating the Services Australia processes. For families with children who have become citizens, Karen and her team are exploring this issue and are now working with Services Australia to resolve it. Mental health challenges The team is also finding deep depression and mental health challenges are present amongst refugees and people seeking asylum, particularly the 9000-12,000 who were not found to be owed protection during the unfair and now abolished Fast-Track visa system process. “They’ve basically been left behind with no real pathway to a visa or ability to live a life with dignity in Australia,” Karen explains. “We are seeing them [refugees and people seeking asylum] lose hope. Experiences of depression, complex mental health challenges, homelessness and many other experiences of disadvantage are common. Men, women, children and families are suffering. “I can’t do anything for them except pray for them, reassure them, support them and advocate for them. Advocacy is challenging, but we won’t give up, and, as Christians, we continue to reassure them of their value to us and to God. We speak gently and try to bring comfort and practical help, but we know they will have dark and depressive days because the situation is so difficult, overwhelming and frustrating. Their trauma is compounded, and disadvantage is perpetuated with long and punitive processes to prove they are owed protection rather than processes that focus on affording dignity and compassion. This culminates in feelings of intense uncertainty, fear, confusion and grief. The Asylum Seeker and Refugee Service is also a specialised Doorways (Salvos emergency relief) centre. People can be assessed for gift cards, food, clothing, toiletries and children’s toys. Other necessities are also available for people to take home. A Doorways caseworker, a chaplaincy team and an Employment Plus Local service are also available. Good news Although the outlook for many people seeking asylum seems bleak, there is some good news. “The happiest news I’ve had is that some of our people who were former asylum seekers who’d arrived by boat have been able to transition onto Resolution of Status visas,” Karen shared. “After 12 months, people can then apply for citizenship. It’s a joyous moment when they come in here with their applications for Australian citizenship so that I, as a minister of religion, can sign and verify their photos. “It’s really heartening and lovely to see that, after all this time, these people can finally apply for citizenship. But for most of the people we see, it would be a tremendous breakthrough if some sort of visa pathway could be found for them so they can continue their lives here with dignity in Australia.” *“TSA submission on Migration Amendment (Removement and other measures) Bill 2024 The Salvation Army prepared a Submission to the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee in response to the Migration Amendment (Removals and Other Measures) Bill 2024. The Salvation Army does not support this Bill and recommends that it not be passed. The Submission responds to the Bill and explores the following impacts of legislation for refugee and asylum seeker communities across Australia: ▪ Risk of refoulement for those with protection claims rejected through Fast-Track, ▪ Compounding trauma due to prolonged processes and family separation, and ▪ Exacerbating disadvantage through migration process barriers and criminalisation. Click here to read the full Submission and recommendations.

Hi everyone, ‌ I hope you are all travelling well during this busy time as we approach the end of this year’s Red Shield Appeal campaign and the financial year. The busier life gets, the more important it is for me to take time to pause, catch my breath and see the beauty that surrounds me and the blessings that I experience. Expressing gratitude on a daily basis keeps circumstances in perspective. ‌ As we celebrate Refugee Week, we are given a unique opportunity to recognise the invaluable contributions refugees make to our communities and it provides us with a timely reminder to learn about their culture, the journey they have taken to get to Australia, and their stories, often filled with hardship and courage. Everyone has a story to share, and in honour of Refugee Week, I encourage you to take a few minutes to watch Manhring’s story. His journey is one of great resilience and hope for a better life. Personally, I cannot begin to imagine the struggle, pain and sacrifice it took for him and his family to be where they are today – walking by foot for seven days, earning just $2 (AUD) for a full day's work, and then not being allowed to worship or go to church. Despite these valleys of difficulty, Manhring shares with us, “I have hope for God’s plan for me.” Daily, Salvos around the country are going above and beyond to support those who need it most, which includes many new Australians and refugees, and I am thankful for your ongoing commitment to transforming lives in Australia with practical expressions of the love of Jesus. While we have a heartfelt desire to see lives transformed, it can sometimes be challenging to know exactly what to say or what to do when the hardship and difficulties of others confront us. Perhaps the example and story of the Good Samaritan brings some clarity here. ‌ ‌‌It teaches us that being a neighbour means showing mercy and compassion to those in need, regardless of their background or circumstances. It calls each of us to see beyond our own struggles and extend a helping hand to others, especially those who are vulnerable and in need. That can be as simple as a smile in acknowledging another or providing a cup of coffee to someone experiencing homelessness or simply listening to another’s story. ‌We don’t know much about the Samaritan’s wealth status, but we know that he had an overflow of kindness that exceeded himself. I wonder if God requires the same of us. Maybe a heart filled with God’s love that overflows in kindness is what he requires. Let us be inspired by these stories and the example of the Good Samaritan. As we celebrate Refugee Week, may we step forward with the same courage and hope, recognising that in every act of kindness, we are part of something greater, bringing the light and love of Jesus into the lives of others, even in the midst of chaos. My prayer for us is that we would be willing to trust God to powerfully use the kindness we have to offer. Thank you for your dedication and compassion. Together, I believe we can, and are making a significant difference. ‌ ‌‌God bless you each, ‌ ‌Colonel Winsome Merrett Chief Secretary

To read Christine’s Promoted to Glory notice, click here

Each week throughout this 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 (17-23 June) we are praying for the Indonesia Territory. Praise points: ·       We praise and thank God for the answered prayers for our territory in the past year in which we successfully held the Territorial Youth Conference. There were young people who were called to be officers. There are currently 90 cadets being trained and educated at the Training College Jakarta. ·       We thank the Lord that last year our territory successfully conducted the Brengle course for women local officers for 90 people. They became prayer groups for the territory, meeting monthly for Bible study and prayer fellowship. ·       We give thanks for the visit of General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham, World President of Women’s Ministries, who visited Indonesia (27 May - 3 June 2024) and led the ordination and commissioning services for the Defenders of Justice Session, officers’ councils, public services in the cities of Jakarta and Palu, and the 130th anniversary of The Salvation Army in Indonesia. Please pray for: ·       The official inauguration of the President and Vice President of Indonesia in October 2024, that transition of state leadership is peaceful. ·       The new officers who will have their first appointments in July 2024, that they continue to be motivated in their ministry. ·       Health ministries – that the six hospitals and clinics remain stable, despite the complication of regulations. ·       The women's seminar and rallies in August and September, that these events would empower women in their leadership and family. ·       Territorial strategies to achieve Vision 2021-2025 carrying the theme ‘Consecrated for Mission Beyond Borders’, so that many disciples are involved in the mission to spread the gospel. ·       The governance system process in the territory to be implemented successfully. ·       A better and more appropriate strategy for the children’s homes in our territory and the opening of new Eventide homes. ·       The movement and spiritual growth of our youth today, that the youth leader’s forum in each division would serve in a way that is relevant to their generation. To find out more about the Indonesia Territory, click here. For more information on the International Prayer Focus 2024, and to download the calendar, click here.

Before entering officership, I was employed by the Army for 15 years, and, for a few years, I had a boss who used to say to our staff team: “Never walk into my office with a problem unless you’ve also got an idea of how to fix it.” At first, I thought this was not quite right – surely he was called ‘boss’ and paid the big money (as we say) because he could solve our problems! He was the experienced, considered and wise one who would make all our problems go away. I came to understand and appreciate his approach. He wanted us to learn to think for ourselves and develop problem-solving skills. He wasn’t that fussed if, ultimately, we couldn’t solve the problem at hand, but he wanted us to at least try. I wonder how his approach would have worked with Noah … Noah: Sorry to report this, boss, but we seem to have a leak in the ark. God: What caused it? Noah: The gophers. Got peckish last night and started gnawing. We’ve got two holes. God: And have you tried to fix it? Noah: Yes, I have, but it might only be a temporary fix. God: What did you two? Noah: I shoved two toads in the holes. God: Why would you do that? Noah: Plugs the holes. God: Well, they’re amphibious, so I guess they can breathe inside while their little legs can kick away all they want outside, might even make the boat go faster. Ha! Noah: Oh, yeah, legs outside, that would work better. God: Tell me you haven’t just killed the only two toads in the world, Noah. Noah: Oh, no, of course not. Might just have to wait for a while though, until the tadpoles grow. God: Anything else, Noah? Noah: Well, there was a problem with the donkeys. Apparently, some jealousy with the zebras. They didn’t know why the zebras were given pyjamas for the voyage and they weren’t. God: Please tell me you put them straight on that. Noah: Yep, all sorted. I waited until the donkeys went to sleep last night and then painted stripes on them. They’re both good today. God: Okay. Just don’t let them go up on deck in the rain. Noah: What, the zebras? God: No, the donkeys. Noah: Oh no, I won’t make that mistake again. God: What mistake? Noah: Well, I took the wollyrumbas up there for a look, and they immediately flew away. God: The wollyrumbas are gone? Noah: Yep, seems so. God: So, the world will never again hear the plaintive, croaking song of the wollyrumbas? Noah: No … oh, that reminds me. Must go and turn the toads around. See ya, boss. – Major Mal Davies and his wife Major Tracey are the Corps Officers at Adelaide City Salvos

Within the fabric of society, few places elicit emotions as potent as a prison. But what unfolds within the restrictive walls? Salvos Online journalist LERISSE SMITH gained special access to Melbourne’s female maximum security prison to meet with Salvation Army Prison Chaplain Major Alison Platt. Alison’s mission transcends the mere confines of incarceration – it is illuminating pathways to hope, healing, forgiveness and renewal. And through her fervent commitment to supporting women in jail, Alison uplifts spirits and reinstates dignity in a place no one wishes to dwell. Waking up each morning and heading off to prison is pure joy for Alison. “I absolutely love it,” she says with a big smile while enjoying a cuppa. “It is the favourite ministry I have ever had. I just love being with the women and talking with them and seeing if there is a way I can help them because the women will come to me, or the prison workers will come to me and say, ‘What can we do about this?’, and often I have a solution. It is about being real and effecting positive change.” Working with prisoners at the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre, a female maximum-security prison in Melbourne’s outer west, has been a labour of love for Alison during the past nine years, both in a full-time and reliever capacity. It has provided a unique opportunity to pour hope and help into the lives of women who often feel hopeless, helpless, rejected and despised. Meet Alison in person, and she’s friendly, personable and shines bright amongst the prisoners with her beloved red Salvos cardigan representing a warm welcome. While countless people have asked the chaplain why she would work in such an environment, she is adamant prison is where she is meant to be. And dispelling preconceived notions about incarcerated women is important when talking about her work. “People think prison is like the television shows Prisoner or Wentworth,” Alison reflected. “They think it is all these tough women shaving other women’s heads and all that sort of thing, and that they are all in rooms with bars, and it is all very institutionalised. But it is just not correct. Prison is a grim place indeed, but not like the concrete blocks and bars seen on TV.” So, what is the main reason women go to prison? “A huge percentage have been sexually abused, coerced and been victims of family violence,” Alison said. “Some of them have been through such horrific stuff. They have been beaten, coerced, and so, in retaliation against these situations, they have found themselves incarcerated. In the first month that I was at the prison, I would come home and say, ‘Bloody men!’ Everybody seemed to have a man at the base of why they were there for some reason.” Path to prison The path to becoming a prison chaplain was simple – the Salvos specifically sought her out for the role. A friend worked in the prison sector and suggested to Alison that she would excel in the role, and the rest, as they say, is history. Her foray into being a chaplain began in 2007 after being a corps officer for 10 years with her husband. Alison mostly served at the Melbourne Magistrates Court in the custody centre, apart from two years at The Bridge Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Centre in St Kilda, before arriving at the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre. Journeying with the women in prison as opposed to just being with them before and after a court appearance had great appeal. “I can work with the prisoners and help them in a positive way and often see real change,” Alison said. “What has shaped my work with the women includes my own life experiences, growing up in a working family, becoming a single mother, as well as my education, including being a teacher and having a Master’s in Counselling. I find it all helps when working with the prisoners, including issues such as grief and anger.” Her role as chaplain has two key components – chaplaincy and welfare. A key element of her chaplaincy work is the coffee, tea and chat group she runs each Tuesday morning from 9.30am to 11am. Alison convenes an informal group for any prisoner to meet in the prison chapel on the facility grounds. With tea and coffee-making facilities and a private semi-circular courtyard garden, the key to the group is women feeling comfortable in the space to be themselves and accepted without judgement. One activity that leads to a myriad of conversations is Pass the Salt, a card game that prompts the group to chat about life topics such as people, relationships, ideas, justice and the environment. Sometimes, the conversations are serious; other times, there are laughs. And while being a chaplain does not include leading church services, Bible verses are shared, and prayers are offered anytime they are requested. Also drawing much attention and comfort for the women is a poster on the chapel wall depicting a picture of Jesus with an accompanying verse from Matthew 24:40: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” Positive Lifestyle Program Alison’s welfare work encompasses many tasks, from linking the prisoners with other Salvation Army services, corps and welfare organisations for practical and material aid to working with their case managers. Effecting positive change for the prisoners amidst often their personal pain, loneliness and isolation is also a top priority. Running The Salvation Army’s Positive Lifestyle Program (PLP) for those prisoners who want to participate has been a great success for Alison, with the course covering eight key topics, including self-awareness, anger, depression and loneliness, stress, grief and loss, assertiveness, self-esteem, and future direction. The course covers topics the prisoners often have not explored previously and gives the chaplain the ideal opportunity to nurture their emotional wellbeing and speak hope into their future. “The vast majority come from extremely difficult backgrounds,” Alison said. “They did not set out to commit a crime – it is generally generational poverty, or abuse, or desperation, or knowing no other … some women will say they ran off with a bad crowd and didn’t know how to get away from that. Some even go back to the bad crowd because they would rather be with people they know than alone. Others will also find themselves in desperate circumstances, maybe not knowing how to pay off a debt, so will run drugs for someone.” A big priority for the chaplaincy work is also talking with the prisoners about choices – for them to stop and think before they do something and to think through their actions. Forgiveness is always a main challenge. “Forgiving themselves for mistakes they have made is huge,” Alison reflected. “I will say to them, ‘You are being punished for what you did wrong, but not for who you are – you need to let it go’. They keep beating themselves up day after day after day. The guilt is awful. They will say, ‘How could God forgive me?’ Well, can you forgive yourself? Because God has already forgiven you.” Alison’s faith and spiritual beliefs influence her approach to work. “I always think that, in looking at the women, I’m looking into the eyes of Jesus,” she said. “And that came from when I worked in the courts. I was in the custody centre, and you would look at mainly men through a small letterbox opening. They would come down and tell you what they needed. My predecessor used to talk about serving the weak, wounded, and weary.” Special events A key highlight and source of joy for Alison is remembering the children of the prisoners. She delights in giving these children (aged 12 and under) birthday presents with the gifts donated from the annual Salvation Army Christmas Appeal. Her trips to Sunshine Salvos in Melbourne’s west to pick up a birthday present, which she will post or hand deliver, is extra special. The prison undertakes all the checks to ensure there are no orders preventing contact, and the mothers will write their own messages on cards Alison provides to them. Other memorable moments have been commemorating special events with the prisoners. Alison recalled watching a special funeral service with someone whose brother had passed away. She lit a special candle to remember him and served a special cup of tea. On another occasion, the chaplain organised bedding for a grandmother caring for her three grandchildren under six while mum was in prison. The grandmother and children all slept in one bed before receiving the assistance. Loneliness a big issue Witnessing prisoners endure hardships is an inherent aspect of the chaplain's duties. For those leaving prison, the biggest issue is housing and leaving with no possessions or suitable clothing. It presents an ethical and moral dilemma for Alison. “When you know that people are being released into homelessness, it’s really difficult,” Alison said. “There are many who often go into homelessness; they may go into emergency shelters or couch surfing. Others have nowhere to go … only about 50 per cent of prisoners have support from family and friends. The great challenge is loneliness. It is huge. That is why some people come back to prison because they have a community. I know that when I worked at the custody centre, people would try to get arrested near Christmas because they would have family (fellow prisoners) and Christmas food. “Now, people want to come here (the prison) because it’s warm, and they have a bed, a roof over their head. It is just the reality.” With Alison preparing to retire in the coming months to enjoy the much-awaited birth of her grandchild, the women won’t be far from her mind. “I just love it when they give me a hug,” she said. “And I look forward to a cuppa with ex-prisoners if they want to make contact.” And Alison remains a firm believer in hope for all incarcerated women. “Hope is a hard thing to have, and a hard thing to keep, especially when you are being released with nothing and no set place to go,” Alison said. “But I passionately believe there is hope and a future for each woman because Jeremiah 29:11 inspires me and is my favourite verse. It says, ‘For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’. “The ultimate value of being a chaplain is showing that you care, and through that, that God cares.” Clothing appeal for female prisoners on release, click here Ex-prisoner finds ‘freedom’ in chaplaincy support, click here

What is it like to be sentenced to prison? Ex-prisoner JOANNE* shares her story of being incarcerated at Melbourne’s female maximum security prison and how Salvation Army Prison Chaplain Major Alison Platt made a profound difference in her life through unwavering compassion, empathy, understanding and support. When I was incarcerated at the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre in Victoria, it was December 2018. My first (and only) time going into this foreign world I had never experienced. I was told that we could speak to chaplains for support if we chose. Though I hadn’t been an active church member for a while, I decided to enter the chapel and have a chat. Of course, I was wary of being overwhelmed with religion from a chaplain, but that is not what I got. So, what did I get from a chaplain, specifically Alison? I got understanding, compassion, empathy, support, friendship, education, tutoring, guidance, humour, life experience, confidentiality and even free coffee and tea! And so much more. So, let me expand on these gifts. She provided a space where I and others could go to talk about any issues without judgement. You go through so much more than I could hope to explain when you are incarcerated and yes, post-traumatic stress disorder is real. You carry the burden of guilt so heavily for being in jail and all the reasons why and who it affects on such a broad front, yet there is a beacon of light at the chapel called Alison who is there to welcome anyone who drops by for a shoulder to cry on or have a laugh with. Not just to talk and learn about religion. To feel safe to be vulnerable, when outside in the yard, you cannot show that vulnerability. To participate in the Positive Lifestyle Program, a course on self-reflection and change, is so popular that there is a permanent waitlist for participation. If you were unable to attend the chapel, Alison would come to see you in your unit, always willing to make time for anyone no matter why they were asking. If you didn’t see her for religious reasons, it didn’t matter, as her door is always open. Each week, a coffee, tea and chat morning is held where women can come in at any time, sit down and grab a coffee or tea and a biscuit or even homemade goodies (she bakes as well) and talk as a group or by themselves about anything. It’s a chance to feel human in a time of unnatural circumstances. Throughout the COVID pandemic, times were particularly unsettling with many visits and services cancelled at the prison, yet I always knew with a quick note that Alison was there when we needed her. She is there for court support for many women, often going along to support and comfort women when they are going through their trials before sentencing. Then there are the celebrations that she is such a big part of too. Not just Easter and Christmas services but supportive of our achievements such as education, drama, art etc, often attending shows or graduation events. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the Christmas hampers. The effort that goes in behind the scenes is astonishing. I know that Alison has many volunteers from The Salvation Army who help, but there is a vast amount of time in preparation for which she alone is responsible. So, what else does a chaplain do? Well, they organise support services for those doing it tough both inside and when they leave prison. Vouchers for food and clothing. Housing referrals and support services for mental and physical health and rehabilitation. Alison is also the person we turn to when illness or death occurs to family members whilst we are in custody. Being a comfort for those experiencing a virtual funeral, a shoulder for mums doing it tough with custody issues, a conduit for those not allowed to contact someone. The voice of positivity when all our hope is lost. The giver of bad dad jokes. Able to bring a smile or to share the burden of whatever is right or wrong. I am sure there is so much more that I could say about Major Alison Platt, The Salvation Army chaplain at Dame Phyllis Frost Centre (DPFC). I have learnt so much and have had the pleasure of being involved with her outside of jail when on release. Here I am, nearly two years post-incarceration, still able to pick up the phone and talk to her and lean on her for support when needed and that is a great feeling. I only wish those who are reading this have the chance to cross paths with Alison and benefit from her knowledge, her compassion, her wisdom, her love of God, her friendship. It is something I am lucky enough to have experienced as have the many women who have passed through her door at DPFC over the many years of service she has given. Thank you doesn’t seem enough. – As told to Salvos Online journalist Lerisse Smith *Not her real name. Joanne’s identity has been protected.

Melbourne’s chilly winter weather is now in full force with one group of women desperately needing warm clothing donations. Prisoners finishing their sentence at Melbourne’s female prison, the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre, often leave the premises needing warm winter clothing as they embark on the next chapter of their lives. Prison Chaplain Major Alison Platt said warm jackets, jumpers, cardigans, jeans and pants in new or excellent condition (no rips, stains or faulty zippers/buttons) were urgently needed to help give the women dignity and practical material aid as many faced financial hardship once they left the centre. “Many women leave prison into homelessness,” she said. “They may go into emergency shelters or couch surfing. Others have nowhere to go. Warm jackets and clothes make all the difference when the women leave. Others no longer fit into the clothes they wore coming into prison. On the streets, decent meals can be rare. Having basic nutritional needs met makes a big difference.” If you can donate new and quality women’s winter clothing, please contact Alison at Alison.Platt@salvationarmy.org.au For full story on Major Alison Platt’s chaplaincy role at the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre, click here – Lerisse Smith

“We had an incredible experience at the revival meeting at ‘Bumi Kaktus Sports Hall’ in Indonesia, where 4658 young Salvationists gathered to worship,” said General Lyndon Buckingham. “During the call to pray, it was a truly inspiring moment as 263 young people, deeply moved and committed, responded. Many of them expressed their heartfelt desire to serve as future Salvation Army officers. “We praise God for the opportunity to witness this!” International leaders General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries) arrived in Indonesia on 27 May for a week of celebrations in the territory. These included a corps inauguration, a thanksgiving meeting, a graduation evening, youth revival meeting and the ordination and commissioning of the Defenders of Justice session. At the inauguration of Jonooge #1 Corps, the General encouraged the congregation to rejoice in God’s grace in rebuilding the corps, which was devastated by the massive 2018 earthquake. With the support of the local government, donors, and the hard work and self-reliance of a congregation mostly made up of farmers, the 1000-person-capacity building was completed in just over five years. On the same day, officers’ councils were held in Palu. Officers from seven divisions and two regions  – comprising 567 retired and active officers – attended the service. Celebrating 130 years A thanksgiving service celebrating 130 years of The Salvation Army’s ministry in Indonesia took place 30 May in Palu, with 11,676 Salvation Army soldiers attending. The Deputy Governor of Central Sulawesi and the Head of Interfaith Communication Forum for Central Sulawesi, were also present. That afternoon, Salvation Army youth held a revival meeting at the Bumi Kaktus sports hall. Despite the hot weather, the General and Commissioner Bronwyn enthusiastically participated in the energetic youth service. The General encouraged the 4658 young Salvationists to, like Peter, listen to God’s voice and not give up easily when facing challenges, committing their youth to God’s plan. Striving for God’s justice The culmination of the General’s visit was the ordination and commissioning weekend. The event, held in Jakarta on 1–2 June, began with the graduation night for the second-year cadets of the Defenders of Justice session, the promotion of 54 first-year cadets of the Champions of the Mission session, and the Silver Star Fellowship Night. Commissioner Bronwyn offered words of gratitude, appreciating the dedication of parents who had allowed their children to become Salvation Army officers. The following day, more than 1000 people filled the Jakarta #1 Corps for the ordination and commissioning service. In his sermon, the General urged the lieutenants to live up to their session’s name and strive for God’s justice to be truly upheld. The Indonesia Territory was blessed by the presence of the international leaders. Spiritual renewal has been declared by God through their ministry. For the full story from Captain Febe Ambitan, Territorial Digital Communication Officer, Indonesia Territory, click here. To view more photos from the Indonesia visit, click on the arrow below.

International Headquarters is selecting delegates from around The Salvation Army world to attend the 69th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) at the United Nations in New York City in March 2025. Each March, United Nations entities and non-government organisations, including The Salvation Army, assemble for the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). The gathering is diverse and includes representatives from all 193 UN member states. The Salvation Army has a ministry presence in 134 of these countries, and the International Women’s Ministries team (the team) “desires that our delegation would reflect this”. Personal experience Major Kaye Viney, Area Officer Northern Territory, attended CSW68 earlier this year. “Imagine a world that is just, fair and free, where every girl can dream without fear,” said Kaye. “This sums up my experience of attending CSW68 conference in New York in March 2024.” Kaye attended CSW68 with delegates from The Salvation Army’s International Social Justice Women’s Group, of which Kaye is a member. “It was fantastic to meet with women in person who I had only previously known online and a great privilege to meet with women from all around the world to listen to stories that affect women globally,” she said. During CSW68, Kaye attended many workshops and presentations at the UN, with topics including women in poverty, violence against women, education, and empowering women to invest in girls and daughters as change agents. She also attended forums on testimonies from Afghanistan and Pakistan, encouraging men to get in touch with positive emotions, the power of partnering against poverty and the Nordic response to Gender Equality. “The experience had a profound impact on me and my ministry going forward to look outside the day-to-day operations of the office and into issues that affect women and girls around the world,” Kaye said. “It has made me determined to create a safe place for women suffering violence, trafficking and loss.” Focus areas 2025 The year 2025 marks the 30th Anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action ,  which saw 189 countries adopt the global agenda and key policy document for women and girl’s empowerment, protection and equality. A specific focus of CSW69 will be to review, analyse and celebrate the progress of the Beijing Platform for Action. “Just as The Salvation Army was in attendance in 1995, we want justice-seeking leaders and future change-makers to be present at this key event in 2025,” the team explained. Important themes are (but not limited to): gender-based violence, poverty, education, health, leadership, human trafficking and modern slavery, environmental justice, and the role of the girl child. “We are seeking inspiring female delegate-candidates, currently between 20 and 40 years old,  who are informed on the intersection of gender equity with social justice matters, are able to speak out on justice issues and to represent The Salvation Army’s international position with confidence at CSW69.” The candidate may be an officer or a soldier with evident passion, experience or employment in the fields of development, education, health and social services or in the leadership of women-focused mission and ministry. Application instructions Candidates should submit a written paper detailing how their attendance at CSW69 would positively impact existing ministry and mission in a local or territorial setting (maximum 300 words) and a brief video speaking on a relevant subject of personal interest. Both tasks must demonstrate genuine concern for and knowledge of justice issues that impact women and girls, a good understanding of The Salvation Army, and an appreciation for its mission, and the ability to articulate their views and convictions with respect. These tasks must be completed in English as delegates will be required to speak and understand English during CSW69. Travel, accommodation and meals will be arranged and covered for selected candidates; however, visas and required documentation will remain the responsibility and expense of the individual or their representative territory. Candidates should direct their email submissions to the international Women’s Ministries section( ihq-wm@salvationarmy.org ) by Tuesday 20 August 2024 , with both the written document and video statement attached or linked. Personal information (name, age, email address, occupation, corps and territory) should be clearly stated in the same email. For more information, resources and outcomes from the 2023 Commission on the Status of Women, click here .  The team Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries) leads international Women’s Ministries alongside Commissioner Shelley Hill (World Secretary for Women’s Ministries). Supported by International Secretaries, officers and staff at International Headquarters, they provide leadership to those responsible for territorial and regional ministries to women across the international Salvation Army. Together, they seek to support the General in leadership of and direct missional engagement with Salvation Army women.