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Majors Brendan and Sandra Nottle getting ready for an excitng night at The Salvation Army Carols in the Domain in Sydney on Saturday 20 December. Photos: Alexander Mayes BY KIRRALEE NICOLLE This year’s Carols in the Domain, held in Sydney on 20 December and televised nationwide on the Seven Network, marked the first year with The Salvation Army as the official naming partner. It also marked one of the first major public events in the city following the tragic events at Bondi Beach on 14 December. The proceedings included a Coca-Cola-sponsored drone show featuring 500 drones, The Salvation Army choir and a special message for Australians from Commissioner Miriam Gluyas, Territorial Commander and Chair of the Board, in light of the recent attacks in Bondi. The Salvation Army shield lights up the sky over The Domain in Sydney as part of the Coca-Cola drone show. In her segment, Miriam said the night was a great chance to pause, think deeply, and honour those who had gone through the most difficult times and had their lives “changed forever”.   “The most incredible thing we’ve been talking about is Christmas, and the true message - this baby Jesus who came to bring hope and love and peace, so that everyone might flourish,” Miriam said. “Tonight, what we want to say is you are hope givers, you are hope bringers, let’s be that this Christmastime.” While The Salvation Army has long been involved in the event , the first year as the official naming partner was an amazing one, according to General Manager for Community Fundraising Andrew Hill. “It was a hot day, and the crowd came a little later to avoid the heat,” Andrew said. “It was a challenging week, and we worked closely with the event organisers Active TV to ensure the tone of the event respected the events of the previous weekend while offering a joyful Christmas experience for families. “I really believe the night provided a powerful opportunity to allow the message of Jesus to pierce through the darkness.” Andrew Hill, Commissioner Miriam Gluyas, Diane Hill, Catrina Unicomb, Kim Hill and Jason Reynolds getting ready for the carols. He said at one point, the crowd gasped in amazement when, during the drone show, The Salvation Army shield appeared in the sky. “We couldn’t have hoped for more,” Andrew said. “I think we saw on Saturday night how amazing it is when we all come together behind a Salvation Army that just wants to shine a light into the world. “I think we’re going to see amazing things to come in future years.” Volunteers were the backbone of the success of The Salvation Army Carols in the Domain, according to Community Fundraising Manager Andrew Hill. Andrew said the event would not have happened without the commitment of the Communications team, led by Colonel Rodney Walters, Head of Fundraising Janine Kewming, Community Fundraising and Relationships Manager Greg Donovan, Executive Manager Campaign Communications and Media Benjamin Moyes and his team, Events Manager Lisa O’Sullivan, as well as the Events team, and the hundreds of volunteers and staff across multiple teams and corps including Shire Salvos, The Salvation Army Emergency Services, Parramatta Salvos, the Sydney Youth Band and many more. Andrew said Lisa O’Sullivan was an “absolute dynamo and superstar” who ensured much of what happened on the ground went according to plan. He said many of those involved were at the venue from 8.30am on the Saturday morning until 1.30am the following day. More than $500,000 was raised through the event, which will support The Salvation Army’s work across Australia. The stage comes alive at dusk with The Wiggles on stage to entertain the kids as The Salvation Army Carols in the Domain.   Click through the slideshow below for more photos:

Alinta Energy teams assisting Sydney City Salvos and preparations for The Salvation Army Carols in the Domain. Image: Alinta Energy BY KIRRALEE NICOLLE The Salvation Army is partnering with three major energy providers – Alinta Energy, AGL and Origin Energy – to deliver practical support for families facing a difficult Christmas season. The 2025 Light the Way collaboration marks the fourth year in a row that The Salvation Army has brought together industry partners to help families cover essential bills and provide food, gifts and emergency accommodation at a time of year that many find challenging. Melissa Galland, First Nations and Community Manager at Alinta Energy, said the team were proud to support The Salvation Army’s efforts through the Light the Way initiative. The Alinta Energy Brand team recently spent an afternoon with The Salvation Army packing candle bags for the Carols in the Domain event in Sydney. They helped fill 8000 bags with treats and toys, sales of which will go towards helping the Salvos frontline homelessness services. Several members of Alinta’s Marketing Team also spent a day at the Sydney City Salvos in Surry Hills, assisting staff and volunteers to support those experiencing homelessness or hardship. “Community is really important to us at Alinta Energy – both as a company and as individuals,” Melissa said. “Our teams love getting out there to lend a hand, whether it’s volunteering at the Sydney City Mission, packing candle bags for Carols in the Domain, or collecting gifts, clothing and grocery donations to support families in need. The Salvos make such a difference in people’s lives, and for us, it’s about standing together and helping light the way for those who need it most.”  AGL Loy Yang filling Christmas hampers. Image: AGL The team at AGL Loy Yang, in regional Victoria, also recently assisted The Salvation Army by providing gift cards and filling Christmas hampers for families in the area. AGL Managing Director and CEO Damien Nicks said the team was proud to be involved.   “We’re proud to support The Salvation Army’s Light the Way campaign again this year, helping those in need – including the local communities in which we operate – this holiday season,” Damien said. AGL have also generously matched staff donations dollar-for-dollar and offer Paid Volunteer Leave which teams have used to volunteer at the Melbourne Salvos 614 café in the CBD. They’ve also held toy drives across their offices and sites to help give joy to children and families this Christmas. Origin Energy has also been building community partnerships to bring hope through the Light the Way campaign. Origin has also been building community partnerships to bring hope through the Light the Way campaign, including by boosting the efforts of Jindabyne (New South Wales) local and Christmas lights enthusiast, John McLoughlin – driving donations for Light the Way, as well as bringing festive fun to the community. Jindabyne local and Christmas lights enthusiast John McLoughlin with Cooma Corps Officers, Auxiliary-Lieutenants Debbie and Bryan Bartlett. Image: Origin Energy Additionally, through the Origin Foundation, donations from Origin employees to registered charities like the Salvos will be matched dollar-for-dollar, through their matched giving program. Origin also offers its employees paid volunteer leave to give time and assistance to community activities, including with partners like the Salvos. Origin’s Senior Strategic Communications Specialist Lydia Lobb said Origin was pleased to partner with The Salvation Army to provide much-needed support for Australian families through the Light the Way campaign. “From volunteering to fundraising and matched giving, we’re boosting our support for those doing it tough through Light the Way,” Lydia said.

Shieldy the Salvation Army mascot next to a trailer-load of toys collected as part of the annual Christmas motorcycle toy run in Mildura. BY LERISSE SMITH Shiny leather jackets glistened in the sun as the roar of revving motorcycle engines echoed through the streets of Victoria’s Sunraysia region, marking the arrival of the much-loved annual Motorcycle Riders Association (MRA)-Ulysses Sunraysia Toy Run. Generosity flowed as freely as the engines, with around $3500 raised across the day for the Salvos Christmas Cheer program through toy donations and financial gifts, including $1800 from donations and a barbecue. “It was a great success – every little bit counts,” said Lieutenant Shaun Featherston, Corps Officer of Sunraysia. “A lot of the public came out to support, which was great to see. We had Shieldy (The Salvation Army’s mascot) connecting with the community, and even one of the volunteers ended up getting roped in to being dressed up as Santa. So, it was a good day.” Motorcyclists file through the streets of Mildura on their way to the toy drop-off venue. A few hundred local community members cheered the riders as they travelled along the route, starting from Mildura Central car park and passing through scenic locations such as Red Cliffs, Buronga, Dareton, Wentworth and Merbein, before concluding at the Langtree Mall – the heart of Mildura. Bikes and backpacks filled fast, stillages stacked high, and the true scale of community kindness became visible, with around two and a half stillages packed solid with toys destined for children and families who might otherwise go without this Christmas. And the need is great. Beneath the celebration of the toy run, which has run for more than 10 years, lies a sobering reality: demand for material aid is climbing sharply compared to previous years. Shaun said the corps team was seeing nearly double the number of people seeking help due to rising living costs and food prices. “The age of people has dramatically decreased. You are looking at people in their 30s with kids. Some of those might have mortgages, some have a couple of jobs trying to make ends meet, and they are just not able to.” The scale of need this Christmas cannot be understated. Already, around 660 individuals are receiving through the Christmas Cheer program from over 175 family units ... and counting. “We are still getting people coming in and seeing us,” he emphasised. “We will continue having people coming in to see us right through the festive period.” Strong partnerships have proved vital, with the ongoing collaboration with MRA-Ulysses forming a backbone for the toy run’s success. As the corps officers, Kim and Shaun Featherston welcome partnerships within the community. “We need to build partnerships to advance our mission and provide hope for our community. So, teamwork is key,” reflected Shaun. “Instead of us doing something that somebody else is doing, it makes sense for us not to do something similar! So, this (the toy run) is just a perfect fit for a working community partnership. The anticipation is also building for the largest Christmas Day lunch yet, which is expected to feed more than 150-200 people, with even more likely to arrive on the day. “Fortunately, people will see the Salvos as a safe space,” remarked Shaun. “For many, Christmas means no family, no hope. But they come into our space with community, with family – and with hope.” Click through the slideshow below for more photos of the Sunraysia Toy Run:

Each week throughout 2025, Salvationists around the world are uniting in prayer for a particular territory or region of The Salvation Army.   The focus territory/region shares prayer requests to help us pray with precision and power for one another.   This week ( 22-28 December ), we pray for the Rwanda and Burundi Territory .   The Rwanda and Burundi Territory has 60 officers (all active); 10 cadets; 24 corps; 13 outposts; 4628 senior soldiers; 948 adherents; 1512 junior soldiers; 45 employees. Lieut-Colonels Dancille and Emmanuel Ndagijimana lead the territory.   The work of the territory includes: ·  Community development ·  Schools and education (6 schools) ·  Modern slavery and human trafficking response Prayer Requests: ·  Pray for our territory to meet the requirements of the Government to reopen our corps that were closed last year. ·  Pray for the cadets of the Proclaimers of Transformation that have just commenced their studies. ·  Pray for the harvest appeal that God will touch people to give willingly to his work. More than 500 people gathered for assistance at one of the corps in Rwanda.   Muko Savings and Loans program recipients. To find out more about the Rwanda and Burundi Territory, click here . To find out more about The Salvation Army’s prayer focus, click here .   To download the 2025 International Prayer Focus schedule, click here .   https://www.salvationarmy.org/prayer-focus

The group gathered for a photo in Ephesus, one of the seven churches mentioned in the Book of Revelation. BY DEBORAH WODHAMS*   Retired officers Majors Isabel and Norm Beckett recently led 29 Salvation Army officers on a journey to Greece and Türkiye to walk in the footsteps of Paul and the Apostles.   The Becketts led participants on the ‘ Footsteps of the Apostles Officers’ Overseas Study Tour’ as they visited historical and biblical sites of major significance from 21 October-8 November. This was the Becketts’ second tour as leaders, the first one being in 2024. They completed the tour as participants in 2013. Major Peter McGuigan (left) and Major Norm Beckett (right) pray for the Athens Corps Officers, Captains Christos and Magda Leveniotis.   Highlights of the tour included: ·      Meeting Salvation Army officers based in Athens and visiting the Acropolis and nearby Mars Hill, where Paul delivered his famous speech to locals worshippers about their altar “To the Unknown God” (Acts 17:22-23). “We met with them as a group and prayed for and encouraged them,” Major Isabel said. ·      Excursions to Corinth, Thessaloniki and the site of the churches at Thyatira and Sardis. ·      A special time of prayer and reflection at Anzac Cove and the Australian memorial at Gallipoli. ·      A visit to an old Jewish Synagogue in Veria (Berea), where participants were invited to sing a song of praise to the Lord.  Those looking on were deeply moved as Australian Salvation Army officers sang the final verse of the hymn O Boundless Salvation . written by William Booth, co-founder of The Salvation Army, in 1893 (see video below).   The final stop on this life-changing tour experience was a visit to the Isle of Patmos.  Participants saw the cave where John was exiled in his later years, and where he received the Revelation of Jesus Christ about future events and God’s plan for the end times, documented in the final chapter of the Bible, in the book of Revelation. “I love and am grateful for the opportunity to visit and reflect on significant early church sites that are mentioned in the Book of Revelation; the fellowship with fellow officers, getting to know who they are and something of their particular ministry,” said Major Isabel. “It was great to further our relationship with our two guides – Thanasis (Greece) and Emre ( Türkiye ) who have been our guides both years. Their expertise and knowledge  is the best.  “Everyone on tour was deeply thankful to Salvation Army leadership for the investment in underwriting this tour.” Officers share a light moment in ancient Pergamum (Türkiye). Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with officers expressing their deep gratitude to God for the experience and appreciation to the Army. They describe being profoundly impacted by all that they saw and experienced, and that the tour has given them fresh insight and appreciation for the Scriptures, especially Paul's writings.    One officer wrote: “ It has given me a new appreciation of the places that were just names in the Bible, giving them more of a geographical location.  Seeing the ancient ruins gives an insight into another civilisation to make the Bible come alive. I look back at the photos I took and remember that their significance reinforces the timeless word of God preached so long ago, which is still relevant today.”   *Deborah Wodhams is the Australia Territory’s Officer Development Coordinator.

1. What is your current appointment, and what do you find most satisfying about it?   I am currently the Corps Officer at Devonport in Tasmania. I find my opportunity in connecting with our community, building relationships, and sharing the love of Jesus in an authentic way, fulfilling the calling God has placed on my life. And, in doing so, it is the most satisfying part of being an officer.   2. Away from the appointment – if that’s possible! – what do you do to relax or unwind?    Self-care is really important. Jesus taught us this! To relax and unwind, my wife and I love spending time walking along our beautiful waterfront in Devonport or going for a drive exploring some local gems. I also enjoy unwinding by building Lego and vinyl designing on my Cricut.   3. What’s a favourite Christian song and why do you like it?    That's a really difficult question. I have many favourite Christian songs that I love; it is hard to choose. At the moment, I love listening to Oceans (by Hillsong United) and Joy of the Lord (Rend Collective). They remind me of the provision that God has promised. I know and will trust the Lord and His Spirit’s leading, and that joy of the Lord is my strength even in the difficult and dark times. I like these songs as they remind me of my testimony and what I have experienced, the promises that God has made to me and those I have made to Him.   4. If you could have a good talk with a biblical character apart from Jesus, who would it be and what would you talk about?   I have many biblical characters that I would love to have a good talk with, but I find Mary of Bethany one I would really love to spend time with, speaking with her about her devotion to Jesus, her gratitude, her love, and listening to her. I am particularly fascinated by her boldness in anointing Jesus’ feet. We don't have too many stories about women in the Bible, but when we do, they are significant. I wonder what other stories Mary of Bethany might have.   5. If you were talking to a group of Salvationists and they asked if you recommended officership or not, what would you say?   I would say that officership has been, and continues to be, one of the most sacred privileges that I have ever had. I would also say that it has been one of the most joyful experiences of my life, and also one of the most challenging and most difficult experiences too. For me, I find it hard to 'recommend' officership, as it is a calling. Some people are called to officership, others are called to serve God in other ways. I would recommend to every disciple of Jesus to step out in faith, trust God in whatever He is calling you to. God doesn't ask us about our ability, but our availability, and to take that first step. For me, since trusting God, stepping out in faith, and being available, I’ve seen God’s immeasurably more. My calling is officership, so I would recommend stepping out and being available for what God is calling you to. Yes, it will challenge you, but through your availability to respond to God, I can't imagine you wanting to choose anything but walking with God where He is leading you.

BY ANTHONY CASTLE “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” Matthew 5:5   I find myself on a street corner from time to time. It sits between an op shop and a fast-food joint. It’s not far from the train station, on the wrong side of the tracks, and near a crossroads. To the east sits the prettier suburban sprawl, to the west the factories and warehouses. Traffic pours past. Only some stop there.   I go to donate the overflow of stuff from our house and watch the people come and go – students, migrant families, barefoot children. Some will come to sit out the front, asking for change. Young couples with prams eat fast food on the curb.   Most people don’t find themselves here. Not everyone. Certainly not the people who live to the east. The people who come here need things. Cheap things. Things that are quick, or feel good. It’s Christmas, after all.   I notice the things people have; used stuffed toys, burgers in wrappers, a puddle of coins in someone’s lap. I find myself in this strange, ugly place and a phrase comes to mind; the meek will inherit the earth.   I don’t know what to make of meekness. When we speak of someone being meek, we often just mean quiet. There are other qualities to the word, shy or passive perhaps. There’s something about it catches that in my mind, something dissatisfying about it.   The idea that the meek will inherit the earth originates in the Sermon on the Mount. Christ declares blessings over the poor, over those who mourn, who are kind, who want to do the right thing, who try to make peace. Most would consider these traits valuable, but we don’t always see meekness in the same way. The word isn’t used as a compliment.  I don’t know what to make of meekness. Scripture speaks of meekness often, attaching its meaning to suffering ( Ephesians 4:2 , Colossians 3:12 ), gentleness ( 1 Corinthians 4:21 , 2 Corinthians 10:1 , Titus 3:2 ), or with compliance ( Titus 3:1-2 ). Some interpret meekness as being easy to control, submissive, even in the face of mistreatment. For many, to be meek is to be weak. An unequal world It seems strange to think that the quiet and compliant would inherit much of anything in today’s world. Inheritance is increasingly a privilege. Wealthier households receive larger inheritances, poorer households receive less, and inequality grows.   In fact, wealth inequality has never been worse. It is estimated that $3.5 trillion in assets will be transferred by inheritance  in Australia by 2050. There are concerns that inheritance may be the only way to guarantee financial security or housing, creating a class system known as ‘inheritocracy’ . We might hear that ‘the meek will inherit the earth’, but more and more it feels as it the world is already taken, and it isn’t being given to those on that street corner.   I think of the cheap things those people received - burgers, spare change. Those people are on welfare, needing visa permanency, needing secure housing and proper work, some way to raise their kids. In a world where 91 people have become billionaires through inheritance  in the last year alone, being quiet and compliant may not be enough.   Some may say the inheritance Jesus speaks of is in heaven or believe that it will be established by some future divine rule. Some have consequently told the poor to be accepting of this, told the oppressed to be obedient on earth. For an inheritance to be passed down, something must die. It is almost as if some expect the meek to die before having their needs met, and to be quiet about it as they do.   The whole narrative of Scripture doesn’t reflect this. Some may interpret meek as quiet and compliant, but the word is also interchangeable with the poor and afflicted in Scripture (Job 24:4, Psalm 22:6, Luke 4:18). The word can refer to those living with illness, in poverty, on the margins. God wants equity, prosperity, and justice for these people, for the meek (Isaiah 11:4, Psalm 37:11). We are instructed to defend these people right now (Psalm 82:3). In a world where 91 people have become billionaires through inheritance in the last year alone, being quiet and compliant may not be enough.   Society is at a crossroads. Some are inheriting everything while more and more are finding themselves with little. Perhaps it is this version of the world that needs to die for an inheritance to come, these systems and structures that create inequality and injustice.   I don’t quite know what to make of meekness, but Jesus offers a better way to make the world. That street corner is a reminder of this: those students, workers, migrants, the disabled, and those on the poverty line. They should be blessed, not just with soft toys and fast food, but equity and justice; things they really need.   It’s Christmas, after all.

In this wonderful Christmas animation, Evie and her dog Jingle Paws learn from Grandpa about the meaning of Advent – a special time of waiting and preparing for Christmas by remembering Jesus. Through the lighting of candles, reading of Scripture, and prayer, they reflect on the hope, joy, love, and peace that Jesus brings.

People have been laying flowers at a makeshift memorial outside Bondi Pavilion all week. Photo supplied by Miriam Gluyas REFLECTION BY MITCHELL EVANS Sydney City Salvos Mission Team Leader   Like many, I sat in disbelief on Sunday night as images of Bondi Beach flashed across the screen. These are places where I’ve shared countless moments of joy with my family – the overpass that usually signals excitement as the ocean comes into view, the playground where laughter echoed during endless games of chase, and the park where we’ve enjoyed picnics together.   Seeing these familiar spaces associated with violence felt surreal and heartbreaking.   When I received a call on Monday asking me to be part of The Salvation Army’s presence in the aftermath of the Bondi terror incident, I didn’t hesitate and made my way there.   As we walked along the promenade and made ourselves available to the community, the atmosphere was heavy with stunned silence. Beneath Bondi’s reputation for glitz and glamour lies a deeply connected community – a network of care and friendship. This tragedy has shaken the community to its very core.   Throughout the day, I spoke with people from all walks of life, simply checking in and offering a listening ear. Some needed solitude, while others poured out their grief and fear. A few conversations from Monday have stayed with me, and I'm sure they’ll stay with me for some time to come.    One in particular was a lady I noticed not long after I arrived, a little way up the path, sitting by herself with tears in her eyes. I slowly made my way over to where she was and introduced myself before asking if she needed to talk. Before long, we were sitting side by side on the wall overlooking an almost-empty beach. Then, through her tears, she shared, “The world has no humanity anymore.”   While her words were few, the pain she felt was heavy and very real. We sat quietly together, gazing at the vast ocean and the waves rolling in.   The ocean has always been a sacred space for me – a place where creation speaks loudly of our Creator. Its vastness reminds me of God’s greatness, His ‘big-ness’, and the rhythm of the waves whispers of His constant, unshakable character. No matter what storms rage in life, the waves keep rolling in – steady, relentless, like His love.   In seasons of difficulty, I often find myself drawn to the shoreline. There, with the horizon stretching endlessly before me, I try to block out the world’s unrelenting noise and focus on the One who holds it all together. For me, the ocean becomes a sermon without words: its depth points to God’s mercy, its power to His strength, its constancy to His faithfulness. I can’t stop the waves, and I wouldn’t want to – they remind me that His grace never ceases. I was reminded that even when the world feels broken, God is still present.   And now, in the wake of tragedy, I found myself there again. The same ocean, the same waves, the same God. This time, I was not alone. Around me were others – neighbours, strangers, friends – each carrying their own grief, questions, and fears from the night before. Yet there we sat – some together, some alone, just looking out at the water. I was reminded that even when the world feels broken, God is still present. His love is still relentless. His character is still unshaken.   After sitting in silence together for some time, I shared what had been stirring in my heart as we gazed out across the beautiful sands of Bondi Beach: these two men showed the worst of humanity, but they do not define it. Even in the face of hate, we witnessed an avalanche of love – people stepping into danger to help strangers, choosing compassion and love for others – over fear.   Together, we began recalling stories of courage and kindness we’d heard in the news and from others we’d spoken to: ordinary people doing extraordinary things with whatever they had. This is humanity at its best. As we shared and encouraged one another, the focus shifted, even for that moment, from those who intended to destroy to the goodness we’ve seen in our world – even in the most difficult times.   After a while, I said goodbye and went on my way to continue connecting with people. As I walked, I reflected that for those of us who follow Jesus, this is the call – to be light in darkness, to reflect His love when the world feels broken. Because even when evil tries to speak the loudest, goodness and grace still have the final word. Territorial Commander Commissioner Miriam Gluyas and NSW/ACT Divisional Commander Major Robyn Black lay flowers at the memorial, accompanied by a Jewish community leader. Many Salvation Army officers and chaplains have been on the ground ministering and counselling people in the Bondi area all week.

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Major Peter White (left) speaks with a Jamaican officer and volunteers in his role with The Salvation Army Emergency Services (IES) in the Caribbean. Australian officer Major Peter White has been on deployment in Jamaica with The Salvation Army International Emergency Services (IES) for the past few weeks to assist with the response to Hurricane Melissa that devastated the Caribbean island on 28 October. Peter, who is the Area Officer for the Hunter and Central Coast region in the NSW/ACT Division, has been serving with the IES in Jamaica since 22 November and returns on Monday (22 December). He spoke with Salvos Online international editor Simone Worthing about his role Jamaica, his extensive experience with IES, and what motivates him to work in disaster zones around the world. Peter (left) works with Salvation Army, local and government teams in getting aid to those who need it. Q&A with Major Peter White Simone: What is your role in Jamaica with IES? Peter: My role whilst in Jamaica is as The Salvation Army’s International Emergency Services (IES) team leader. I am the second team leader as I took over from the person from the USA who arrived shortly after the hurricane struck. I have come to support the Caribbean Territory with its response to Hurricane Melissa, a category five hurricane, which has devastated significant parts of Western Jamaica. If there is such a thing, what does a typical day look like for you and the team there? Like most days you can plan to a point. However, unexpected things always come up. Unscheduled deliveries, urgent requests for support, meetings with Salvation Army leadership or partners as well as local government and non-government relief agencies. This eventually settles over time and the ability to plan becomes easier. You are an experienced IES worker, can you please give a brief outline of some of the other places you have served in this capacity? One was Northwest Kenya (Turkana Province). This involved providing support during the severe drought, supplying water to remote and semi-nomadic communities, and supporting boarding schools with food supplies to offset the school fees for students impacted directly by the drought. Also Northern Uganda. We were supporting refugees fleeing south into Uganda because of civil unrest in South Sudan. We provided non-food items to the United Nations (UN) for people who arrived in the refugee camps with nothing. This was particularly for the frail, vulnerable, and women with young children. We also built safe pit latrines within the newer refugee camps – 150 in total. Additionally, we drilled eighteen boreholes across northern Uganda, giving both refugees and host communities access to clean water. Peter led teams in Uganda drilling boreholes and providing essentials to the vulnerable, particularly children. During my appointment in South Africa , I was involved with the work the territory was doing to support internally displaced people following a significant increase in xenophobic attacks on foreign nationals from the countries surrounding South Africa. Whilst appointed to Mozambique , I was also involved in supporting the territory when it was affected by regular flooding. This included the provision of food, clothing and blankets. How are you finding the situation in Jamaica? In comparison to some of these places, what are some of the similarities, and differences, are experiencing? What has been difficult for Jamaica has been that it was still recovering from Hurricane Beryl some 18 months prior to this hurricane (28 June 2024). Buildings, roads, electricity supply, and telecommunications have now been affected twice. Hurricane Melissa was more powerful than Hurricane Beryl. We hear so much about the gentleness and kindness of the Jamaican people. How are they coping after such a terrible disaster? They are a relaxed culture. They are very willing to help one another and very encouraging to those who have come to Jamaica to assist. They are coping okay, but it may be too soon to tell. Many will tell you that they were grateful the hurricane came during the day and not during the night, as people were better prepared. How do people respond to The Salvation Army there? The Salvation Army is well known and well loved by the Jamaican people. Historically, they have always been amongst the first to mobilise resources when disaster strikes. Every day I see donations being dropped off at THQ to support the people following the hurricane. The difficulty is that those who responded first locally, were also from some of the communities significantly impacted. Local communities respond positively to The Salvation Army in Western Jamaica. How does working in a disaster zone and seeing so much suffering impact you personally? What do you learn and how does it change you? Prior to officership, I was an emergency nurse, so seeing the worst of life was somewhat ‘normal’. However, you need to be aware of the impact of working in disaster situations. Creating a support network amongst the team is important. We meet with each other regularly, and make sure that we are looking after ourselves physically, spiritually and emotionally. A few days before departing, I like to set aside some time to stop, take stock of what we have done, and unpack any concerns. I always encourage the team to seek support from their home territories after a deployment. What motivates you to work in disasters around the world? I am motivated by God’s call on my life to do this type of work. It has been part of my work life for many years prior to officership. To now have it as an integral part of my ministry is a blessing. Is there a 'standout' experience or place in your IES work that has particularly impacted you? I am simply humbled to be able to this kind of work and be part of a team that enables locals to participate. We learn so much when we stop and take the time to listen to local wisdom. It makes our response, collectively, so much more focused, and effective. What role does disaster response have in the mission of The Salvation Army? I believe that we create the point of entry. As part of the humanitarian response, proselytising is discouraged. Our focus is the relief/recovery efforts. However, the local Salvation Army is with us, and they can be much more mission-focused through their follow-up visits and activities. How can we in Australia be praying for you and the team? In these situations, it is always important to pray for safety as we (the teams) travel around the country – particularly in Western Jamaica where damage is still being cleared from roads and remote communities. Is there anything else at all you'd like to add or comment on? I would encourage others to undertake the training to be part of the IES team.

Salvation Army officers and other personnel who have suffered the recent loss of a loved one: Majors Henry and Betty Greene  are grieving the loss of their beloved daughter Fiona Greene Hill, who passed away on Tuesday 2 December after a 15 year journey with cancer. Fiona was the wife of Stephen Hill, mother of Justin, Liam and Christa, sister of Ngaire Still and  Major Priya Morgan , and sister-in-law of Jonathan Still,  Lt. Colonel Gregory Morgan,  and  Captains Railton and Anne Hill . Please uphold the family in prayer during this time of deep grief, asking for God's comfort and strength to surround them.      It is with sad hearts that we announce the passing of Ian Alfred Whittaker - (5.10.1943 to 14.12.2025), husband of Captain Lenore Whittaker . He was stepfather to Major Melanie-Anne Holland and Major Ben Johnson and their sister Juanita McMillan and will be missed by each and their families. We acknowledge the family connection to so many of the Whittaker family who have been faithful Salvationists for many years and his children and grandchildren in the Tamworth region and pass on our condolences to them also.   Ian was a faithful soldier for many years and bandmaster at the Tamworth Corps for over 25 years, then supporting Lenore in ministry as she took on extended service. He was a lovely, gentle and faith filled man and a committed member of the Gideons, passionately sharing the gospel at every opportunity. Ian's loved ones wholeheartedly believe that he is with our Lord, whom he loved and served for over 70 years and that he has been made new. He will be missed but they know that this is not the end. They will see him again when they also reach eternity.   Feel free to forward any messages of support or tribute to ben.johnson@salvationarmy.org.au A celebration of Ian's life will be held at Tamworth Salvation Army on the Monday 5 January 2026 at 11am. All are welcome to attend. Lieut-Colonels Merv and Elaine Rowland  are grieving the sudden loss of their beloved 27-year-old grandson Dalton, who unexpectedly passed away on Sunday 30 November. We extend our deepest sympathy to Merv and Elaine and Captain Lara Sutcliffe (cousin) during this heartbreaking time and assure them of our love and support. Please keep them and their family in your prayers, asking God to surround them with His comfort, strength, and peace in the days ahead.   ‌ ‌ Majors Henry and Betty Greene are grieving the loss of their beloved daughter Fiona Greene Hill, who passed away on Tuesday 2 December after a 15 year journey with cancer. Fiona was the wife of Stephen Hill, mother of Justin, Liam and Christa, sister of Ngaire Still and Major Priya Morgan , and sister-in-law of Jonathan Still and Lt. Colonel Gregory Morgan. Please uphold the family in prayer during this time of deep grief, asking for God's comfort and strength to surround them.  Major Marlene Schultz  shares with deep sorrow that her beloved son, Alistair, was called home by Jesus overnight on Monday 29 September 2025. We pray God’s love and peace will surround Marlene and the family as they remember and celebrate his life, particularly in the days and months ahead. Our thoughts are with  Major Lynn Lewis  and her sister Carol on the recent passing of their father Ben Lewis on Wednesday 17 September 2025. We pray God’s love and peace will surround them and the family as they remember and celebrate his life, particularly in the days and months ahead. ‌ ‌ Majors Kelvin and Brenda Stace would like to acknowledge the passing of Helen Stace (nee Seymour), of the Armidale NSW Corps. Helen was the mother of Kelvin, Malcolm and Karen and mother-in-law of Brenda. She went to Jesus in her sleep on the night of Sunday 21 September 2025. In keeping with her wishes, there will not be a funeral. ‌ ‌Our love and support are with Captain Penny Cooper and Captain Dale Allan , along with their families, as their precious Mum, Hazel Allan, passed away on Thursday 18 September 2025. The Celebration of Hazel’s life will be held at Waverley Corps, 958 High Street Road, Glen Waverley on Monday September 29 at 11am. Live stream will be available HERE Major Gwen Coleman is mourning the loss of her husband, Don Coleman, who was Promoted to Glory on Sunday 27 July 2025. We extend our heartfelt sympathy and uphold Gwen and her family in our prayers during this time of sorrow. Major Annita Allman is bereaved of her mother on Saturday 19 July 2025. We extend our love and uphold Annita and the family in prayer during this time of sorrow.  Major Megan Aitken  is bereaved of her mother on Saturday 6 July 2025. Our love and prayers surround Megan and the family at this sad time.   Major Merrilyn Ingram  is bereaved of her brother who passed away recently. Our love and prayers surround Merilyn and her family at this sad time.  Captains Heather and Peter Stamp  are bereaved of their mother and mother-in-law, Robyn Harding, who was Promoted to Glory on Friday 30 May 2025. Robyn worked for The Salvation Army for 30 years, working up until a month ago when she became sick. Our love and prayers surround Captains Heather and Peter Stamp and the family at this sad time.  ‌ Captain Scott Frame was bereaved of his father, George Andrew Frame, who was Promoted to Glory on Saturday 14 June 2025. Prayer would be appreciated for Norma and for the wider family, particularly the grandchildren who greatly treasured their loving 'Pa'. Major Lynn Lewis was bereaved of her mum, Sheila McDonald, who passed away on Monday 9 June 2025. Our love and prayers surround Lynn and her sister Carol and the family at this sad time. ‌ ‌ Commissioner Heather Lang was bereaved of her sister, Mrs. Jean Fouracre, who was Promoted to Glory on Thursday 12 June 2025. Our love and prayers surround Heather and the family at this sad time. Major Kath Lewis  was bereaved of her brother, John Zilm, aged 79 years, who was Promoted to Glory on Wednesday 28 May 2025. Our love and prayers surround Kath and the family at this sad time.   Major Beverley Watters  was bereaved of her daughter, Joanne Marshall, who passed away suddenly on Saturday 31 May 2025. Joanne was also the sister-in-law of Auxiliary Lieutenant Catherine Philpot and the niece of Majors Brian and Margaret Watters. Our love and prayers surround Beverley and the whole family at this sad time. Major Len Turner  was bereaved of his wife, Mandy (Amanda) Turner, aged 63 years, who was Promoted to Glory on Friday 18 April, 2025. Our love and prayers surround Len at this sad time.  Major Denise Milkins  was bereaved of her mother, Coral Haynes, of Townsville, aged 88 years, who passed away on Monday 31 March 2025. Our love and prayers surround Majors Denise and Alan Milkins, Captain Jeff Milkins and the whole family at this sad time.    Captain Steve Spencer  was bereaved of his father, Keith Spencer, a Soldier of Nambucca River Corps, who was Promoted to Glory on Monday 7 April 2025 in Princess Alexander Hospital, Brisbane. Our love and prayers surround Steve and Lydia and the whole family at this sad time. Messages of support can be sent to steve.spencer@salvationarmy.org.au  ‌ ‌ Captain Perry Lithgow was bereaved of his father, (Lawrence) Ray Lithgow aged 89 years, who passed peacefully into his Saviour’s presence on Tuesday 8 April 2025. A celebration of Ray’s life will be held at the Charters Towers Uniting Church on Tuesday 15 April at 10am. Our love and prayers surround Perry, Joshua, Rebecca and Zachary and the whole family at this sad time.   ‌ Major Julie Schofield was bereaved of her brother, Richard Orchard, aged 77 who passed away on Friday 14 March after a long illness with cancer. Our love and prayers surround Julie and Andrew and their family with this terrible loss.     Majors David and Joan Tong are bereaved of  their son-in-law, Ken Wassell, who was Promoted to Glory on Monday 17 March. Ken was married to their daughter, Michelle. Our love and prayers surround David and Joan, Michelle, Blake and Jay, Jenna and Kenan, and Tayla at this sad time.    Major Gaye Day was bereaved of her twin brother Stephen, son of Soldiers Howard and Joycelyn McLachlan on Sunday 23 March 2025.   We pray God’s love and peace will surround Gaye, Richardand the extended family as they remember and celebrate his life, particularly in the days and months ahead.  Majors Glenn and Lynn Whittaker are bereaved of their daughter, Melanie who passed away on Monday 3 March after a battle with aggressive breast cancer. Melanie was the sister of Major Kate Young. Our love and prayers surround the whole family with this tragic loss.     Major Carole Smith  was bereaved of her Dad, Keith ‘Gov’ Smith who was recently Promoted to Glory. A celebration of Keith’s life was held on Monday 10 March. Our love and prayers surround Carole and her family at this sad time.  Our love and prayers are with Major Paula Glover on the recent passing of her Mum, Mrs Dulcie Drury, after a long period of illness. The Celebration of Life was held at Stafford Corps conducted by Majors Bronwyn and Ashley Barkmeyer on Tuesday 11 February.  We pray that the strength, joy and peace of God which ‘passes all understanding’ might continue to hold Paula, her Dad Alan, sister Kylie and extended family and friends, in the days ahead. Major Mark Soeters  was bereaved of his brother Michael who recently passed away unexpectedly in New Zealand. Please keep him in your prayers at this sad time.   Major Erica Kollmorgen  is bereaved of her father, Mr Eckhart Ernst, who passed away after a long time of sickness on Tuesday 24 December 2024. The funeral service was held at Ivan Butler Funerals in Adelaide on 31 December and conducted by Erica. Our love surrounds Erica and her mother Beryl, and we pray that the peace of God, which passes ‘all understanding,’ might sustain the family at this time.    Captain Melissa Marsh  is bereaved of her mother, Shirley Seller, who passed away on Friday 27 December 2024, aged 89 years. A funeral was held on Sunday 6 January in Ararat, Victoria. Please keep Melissa and the family in your thoughts and prayers.    Captains Alana and Aaron Reid  and Captains Daniel and Andrea Wayman are bereaved of their uncle, Luke Walford, who passed away on Saturday 28 December 2024 after a shark attack in central Queensland. Luke was assistant pastor at Cathedral of Praise in Rockhampton.  Kayelene Walford (Wayman), his wife, previously worked at DHQ in Central Queensland as a long serving DC secretary and DYS for 2 years. The funeral was held at Cathedral of Praise in Rockhampton on Tuesday 7 January. The family asks for prayers as they navigate this tragic loss.