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A Salvation Army band marches down Bourke Street in Melbourne in 1966 as part of the funeral procession for the 30 men who perished in the William Booth Memorial Men’s Hostel fire. BY BARRY GITTINS King Solomon suggested in Ecclesiastes (3:1 and 4) that there was a season for everything “and a time for every matter under heaven … a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance”. St Paul later upped the ante, teaching people to “be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15). We love to celebrate, to laugh; understandably, we cherish the good times. Sadly, life also gives us numerous opportunities to practise the Apostle Paul’s words of weeping with those who weep. The aftermath of the men’s hostel fire. Later this year, it will be 59 years since a fire killed 30 men sleeping in The Salvation Army’s William Booth Memorial Men’s Hostel, then located at 462 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne. The 1966 conflagration, described by The Age as “Australia’s deadliest single building fire”, started from “a single stray cigarette”. More than 150 people escaped the blaze. The bodies of 15 of the 30 victims were unclaimed by any relatives or friends. Fifty years ago this month, in May 1975, the War Cry recorded that seven men died in the People’s Palace attached to the original Adelaide Congress Hall buildings one night the previous month. “The Salvation Army expresses profound sympathy to all the bereaved relatives and to all who have suffered in any way,” the War Cry reported. A newspaper clipping from the Adelaide fire tragedy. The brothers Gibb, better known as the Bee Gees, recorded a plaintive song in 1979 about pain and desolation: “ Tragedy, When the feeling’s gone and you can’t go on, it’s tragedy. When the morning cries and you don’t know why, it’s hard to bear with no one to love you, you’re goin’ nowhere.” In times of deep, gripping loss, in the ashes of efforts to help others, The Salvation Army mourned with those who mourned. Salvationists do so still.

The Salvation Army is preparing to celebrate its 160th anniversary! In recognition of this upcoming significant anniversary on 2 July, The Salvation Army International Headquarters has created eight short videos chronicling the vast and varied mission of the global Salvation Army over the past 160 years.   The first video was released last week and looked at The Salvation Army as both a church and a charity.   This week, the second video highlights The Salvation Army’s emergency relief work.   This heartbreaking yet inspiring video focuses on the Army’s response to the tragic Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami of 2004. This tsunami resulted in one of the largest natural disasters in recorded history, killing an estimated 228,000 people across 15 countries.   The Salvation Army provided emergency relief in the form of food, temporary shelters and medical aid, as well as emotional and spiritual support to those traumatised by the sheer scale and loss of the disaster.   Hope in action since 1866 The Salvation Army’s earliest relief work dates back to 1866. A cholera outbreak took its toll on London’s East End population. Against a backdrop of poverty and unemployment, the effects were devastating. In response, The Salvation Army (then operating under the name East London Christian Mission) distributed food and clothing. From this point onwards, The Salvation Army has aided those affected by natural disasters, wars and emergencies all over the world. READ MORE: What is The Salvation Army International Emergency Services and what does it do? The Salvation Army will be there before, during and after a disaster strikes, supporting the long-term recovery of communities around the world – including Australia, through The Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) teams.   Watch the video below to learn more about The Salvation Army’s emergency response in Indonesia and Sri Lanka. To learn more about the International Emergency Department Services of The Salvation Army International, click here .   More to come The six other videos will be released weekly, focusing on social justice, education, modern slavery and human trafficking, healthcare, development and women in leadership.    The videos will be published on:  ·         Vimeo: vimeo.com/salvationarmyihq   ·        Facebook: facebook.com/SalvationArmyIHQ   ·       IHQ website   If you are commemorating this anniversary in your territory or region, we’d love to know what you have planned. Please email  IHQ-Communications@salvationarmy.org .   On social media, you may wish to use #SalvationArmy160 .   Jesus with skin on Daryl Crowden, General Manager SAES, reflects on why, as a church, The Salvation Army is so involved with emergency services. Daryl Crowden is the General Manager of The Salvation Army Emergency Services in Australia. “I think it’s for the same reason as I do it,” Daryl explained. “During my 24 years as a Salvation Army officer, I had numerous opportunities to run a corps, to preach and to run what I guess most people would consider the normal model of Christianity and mission. But when I started doing this kind of stuff, when I got to sit with people at their worst and not necessarily pray with them, not necessarily talk about Jesus, but just be, it was like, as someone said, a framework of ‘being Jesus with skin on’. I believe I have had more opportunities just to be that, more opportunities of genuine relationship and connection with people in this world than I did as an officer. My style of ministry is reflected in this work and it’s also why The Salvation Army does it. “Our roots are about sitting down with people in crisis – the messy people, the chaos – and bringing, even if it's momentary, sense out of that for people. And I think that’s why The Salvation Army does it. “I can't give statistics of people who go to the Mercy Seat, but I can tell you stories of people who walked away lighter, not necessarily because they got a voucher, but because they got half an hour of someone's undivided attention. And I think that's Jesus in the crisis centres. “And for me, personally, although I’m not sure everyone in The Salvation Army would agree, we have volunteers that are both committed Salvationist Christians and not Christians, but whether they profess Christianity or not, the same effect happens. People walk out of that place knowing that someone cared for their life. And it gives me that opportunity to sit with people who don’t profess religion or like church but want to be part of what Jesus did.”

The Salvos’ bike-recycling service has grown in popularity over the past five years. BY SIMONE WORTHING Salvos Recycle Bikes in Brisbane is about to celebrate its fifth anniversary! An event to mark the occasion will be held on Saturday at the Red Hill site, attended by Queensland Divisional Commander Major Mark Everitt, volunteers past and present, members of the Queensland Police, and the local community. A free barbecue, coffee and short celebratory speeches will be part of the event, which starts at 9.30am. The logo when the bike recycling service started.. The constantly developing social enterprise is set up in the grounds of the Salvos Stores complex in the city’s inner northside. Andy Steele, a   Brisbane Salvationist and experienced cyclist, established Salvos Recycle Bikes in 2020, utilising a couple of refurbished shipping containers on concrete slabs, and remains the coordinator of the enterprise to this day. The goal was to restore bikes to sell in Salvos Stores – a supportive partner in the initiative. The vision was, and continues to be, on people – both those who work and volunteer fixing and selling bikes, and on community members who can now buy affordable bikes for transport, leisure, fitness – and everything in between.   “Every life, and every bike – even if it’s just a reflector or bell – is worth saving,” said Andy. “This is where I felt God leading me.” Assistance from the Brisbane City Council and Salvation Army grants helped Salvos Recycle Bikes become operational . A repair and maintenance service for the public was introduced, and conventional bikes could also be converted into electric bikes.   Then-head bike mechanic Wes hard at work in the Recycle Bikes workshop in Brisbane. Lives changed Wes Thompson was the chief mechanic when the service started. A former aircraft engineer, Wes had spent several years in jail, where he met Andy through prison ministry and turned his life around. He has since moved to Victoria to be closer to family, but will be returning to Brisbane for the anniversary celebration this Saturday. “I want him to see it,” said Andy. “I had the vision, and he helped bring it to reality – he was part of the God team for sure!” Damien (Damo) Saal is now the chief mechanic. He had completed the Salvos’ rehabilitation program at nearby Moonyah when he heard about Andy and the bikes through God’s Sports Arena (a Salvos ministry at Brisbane City Temple that reaches out to the homeless and those struggling in their life journeys) and became involved. He credits the support and sense of purpose he found there, with literally saving his life. Salvos Recycle Bikes' original volunteer mechanics, Wes Thompson (left) and Damien Saal, with centre coordinator Andy Steele. “Damo runs the whole thing when I’m away,” says Andy. “He is also part of supporting change in people’s lives, and he helps others and backs those who need it.”   Any profits from the sale of the bikes benefit the Brisbane Streetlevel Mission , as well as covering wages and continuing to develop the business.   “Over these past five years, we’ve become more advanced, have taken over more space to work on and sell our bikes and have more signage up to let people know we’re here,” said Andy.   “We also now handle electric bikes and are getting more and more high-quality bikes that are lost, stolen or unclaimed, being donated by Queensland Police and Queensland Rail. READ MORE: Bikes and lives turned around in recycling venture   “Australia’s largest bicycle retailer, 99 Bikes, has come on board and are good supporters. We also get some quality bikes from the cycling community, including recently, a carbon-fibre road bike. Local community members are buying their second and third bikes from us and referring others to us. We’re seeing parents who buy bikes for their kids bringing the bikes back and buying another one as their kids grow, and regular bike users do all their servicing and repairs with us. “We have some great volunteers, including five regulars, and we are very grateful for them. There are two regular staff members.” Lieutenant-Colonel David Godkin opened the original site in 2020. Andy and his team made the conscious decision not to have a social media presence as “we didn’t want to have to be constantly updating information,” Andy said.   More expensive bikes – those with a value of $1000 or more – are sold online as they don’t have a wide market. “Not all the volunteers have completed the Certificate III in Bicycle Workshop Operations, which, in the early years, the program made available to a small number of volunteers,” Andy explains.   “Mike helps with paperwork and spreadsheets; Laurie had his own bike shop and is very experienced. More and more program participants from Moonyah are also volunteering for shifts. Most of them have exited the program and come to help us during their transition. It’s amazing to see it all after five years. It’s gone so fast.” Salvos Recycle Bikes workshop is open from 9am-noon Tuesday to Saturday.   To contact Salvos Recycle Bikes, call 0432 422 371.

Dianne Jarvey (right) speaks to the panel during the MRI Conference (from left) Narelle Unicomb, Alan Hirsch, Bree Mills and Rich Robinson. BY KIRRALEE NICOLLE Disrupting the system is key to transforming The Salvation Army’s ability to engage through missional communities, attendees were told at the Movement Renewal Initiative (MRI) Conference in Melbourne over the weekend. Speaker and leadership coach Rich Robinson, author of All Change , talked about the importance of disrupting existing systems in a session on Movement Dynamics, where he encouraged a discussion on how to envision and enact transformation in a missional context. The event, which began on the evening of Friday 6 June and concluded on the afternoon of Saturday 7 June, drew more than 130 officers, staff and ministry personnel from across the country. The conference’s speaking line-up included Rich Robinson, missiologist and theologian Mike Frost, micro-church planting practitioner Bree Mills, missional community builder Emma Cotterill and mission specialist Alan Hirsch. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Team, led by Shirli Congoo, conducted the Acknowledgement of Country, and worship accompaniment was by Dan and Nathan Casey. Dan and Nathan Casey lead a worship time. Mike Frost spoke in the first session on Friday night about a pervasive sense among Australian Christians that politically, socially and spiritually, things “are careening out of control”. “Some historians and cultural observers say, actually, what’s happening is a time of polycrisis,” Mike said. “A time of polycrisis is where there’s not one calamitous crisis like a world war or something like that, but where multiple crises are careening at the same time, each heating up the other.” Mike spoke about conflicts worldwide, political tensions, inaccessible housing and healthcare, inequality, the spread of misinformation, and other crises. “This is the world that you are seeking to minister in,” Mike said. “This is the world that your congregation is living in.” When speaking of the Church, Mike referenced the emergence of the deconstruction movement, a widespread decline in church attendance and church closures, reduced volunteers, growing disinterest in vocational ministry or overseas mission, challenges to ‘traditional’ values, instability in theological schools, regular scandals and the diminishing of American evangelicalism, among other issues. “Clapping triumphalism is not going to see us through,” he said. “Just pretending the world isn’t like this is not the way forward. Just imagining if we plant more and better churches that would do the trick is naïve. Just imagining [that] when we restructure our denominational or organisational structures, everything will be better – it won’t do the trick. “Let’s face up to the fact that we are living in a time of polycrisis and seek to find some way as God’s people [and] leaders of God’s people to help us find a way forward in the midst of all of this fiery chaos.” Mike Frost leading a session at the conference. Mike reminded conferencegoers to ‘lower their vision’ and aim to do what they can. “What does God put before you to do? Do it,” he said. “And we know what we’re called to do. We’re called to love mercy, to act justly, to walk humbly with our God. If we could just resolve yet again to discover what it is that God’s put in our hands – who has God put before us? Where has God placed us? – then just do what all caring people can do under those circumstances.” Throughout the Saturday sessions, attendees were encouraged to discuss their reflections and consider how to apply what they were learning in their own contexts. Rich Robinson spoke about the lack of a silver bullet to increase engagement and effectiveness, and the importance of “disrupting the present” in line with Salvation Army co-founder Catherine Booth’s conviction that ‘if we are to better the future, we must disturb the present’. “There’s a sense that we are living in a world that we weren’t prepared for, that we are called to lead in times that we don’t feel equipped for,” Rich said. “And we can then sort of hold tight. We can try and be strong. We can depend on a vehicle, or we can continue to walk together faithfully in this moment.” Rich Robinson leading a session at the conference. Rich spoke about learning from an amateur boxer what it took to punch well, and how it required the force of the entire length of the body rather than just the forearm. He learned that when he used this method, the force could explode through him towards the target. “The reality is this, we spend most of our time in our ministry life punching with elbow to wrist, just prodding, tapping, trying to work it out in our own strength,” Rich said. “That is not strong enough. The reality for us, and what MRI is doing for you and The Salvation Army, is actually helping you to stop all the busyness and the activity of the stuff, to step back, breathe and then use all that you have to explode.” In their workshop, Alan Hirsch and Emma Cotterill presented the APEST 5Q model of mapping the giftings of ministry communities. The five points on the APEST chart are the Apostolic, Prophetic, Evangelistic, Shepherding, and Teaching intelligences. Alan encouraged attendees to map their faith communities on the chart and identify their strongest and weakest points, as well as areas for growth. “You’re only as strong as the weakest point in your system,” Alan said. Bree Mills in her workshop, Bree Mills, Canon for Church Planting at the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne, spoke in her workshop, assisted by Bree Wilkinson, about micro churches and the purpose of making church groups smaller and more intimate. “The way that we do church at times can require a small team of 10 to 15 people,” Bree said. “The point of micro church is to strip it back and see actually how can we do church in the simplest way, whether it’s in the local café, our school or in someone’s home. “It’s not simple because we can’t do or we don’t like complex, but because simple is reproducible.” Secretary for Faith Communities Development Major Dianne Jarvey is the contact for MRI. To find out more, email movementrenewal@salvationarmy.org.au . Delegates in discussion at their tables during the conference.

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This week is International Men’s Health Week. In this video, John, who is blind and suffers from early dementia, shares his story of separating from his wife and facing the terrifying prospect of homelessness. With only weeks to find accommodation, John sought help from The Salvation Army. John’s caseworker, Ishik, worked with him, and together they found the right place that suited his needs. John says that he is so thankful and that this has given him faith again and hope for the future.

The victim-survivors of slavery can be emotionally and psychologically impacted for the rest of their life due to the experience. (Photo courtesy of Keenan Constance,  pexels.com ) Content warning:   This article discusses themes of modern slavery, including coercion, abuse, and exploitation. Some content may be distressing to readers. Support is available at the end of the article for those affected. BY LERISSE SMITH   For many Australians, slavery is seen as a dark stain in the pages of history.   But the truth is far more confronting: Slavery never ended. Modern slavery is woven into the fabric of everyday life – hidden in homes, workplaces and communities across the country.   Yet there is hope. There is help. There is a lifeline.   Thanks to a groundbreaking initiative, The Salvation Army’s national Additional Referral Pathway (ARP) program is now on the frontline of support for those caught up in a nightmare of coercion, deception, and control. Often, it is their first port of call for help.   “They (the victim-survivors) can be emotionally and psychologically impacted for the rest of their life due to the experience,” said Neenu Thomas, Program Manager of the Additional Referral Pathway program, as she reflected on the impact of slavery.   “It is a huge problem ... There are misconceptions that slavery is done and dusted. It has gone long back and nobody has been enslaved. Now that’s not true. Modern slavery is actually very much still prevalent across the world … When we talk about slavery, we are looking into 200 years of history. It may not be in the same way, but it is still happening. Anyone can end up (in slavery) because of a specific situation.”   Modern slavery is often described as situations where someone controls a person or takes away their freedom and ability to make choices about their life, to gain profit or benefit. For years, the only official support option for victim-survivors was to go through the Australian Federal Police.   But that system didn’t work for everyone, and for some, contact with law enforcement was a terrifying thought. For those trapped in modern slavery – including human trafficking, slavery and slavery-like practices such as debt bondage, deceptive recruitment, servitude, trafficking, forced labour, forced marriage and at risk of forced marriage – seeking help was often thought to be impossible.    But after two decades of relentless advocacy by non-for-profit organisations, for an additional referral pathway to specifically assist victim-survivors, a turning point finally came: the launch of the ARP Program in June last year, offering a long-overdue alternative.   Now, victim-survivors have choices.   The introduction of the ARP program ensures they can choose to go to police, report the case and get support as one pathway, or choose to come to the ARP program or any of its consortium members for support including the Red Cross Support for Trafficked People’s program or Forced Marriage Specialist Support Program for people who have experienced or are experiencing modern slavery. But if the person’s needs are different from what those programs offer, then the case workers connect that person with alternative options. Neenu Thomas is the Program Manager of the Salvos’ Additional Referral Pathway program “The program provides access to people who prefer not to go to police directly,” Neenu said.   “Among those walking the path to recovery, some choose a quieter road. Instead of seeking justice through legal channels, they turn to welfare support, looking for stability, healing, and a fresh start through services designed to meet their immediate needs. If they feel ‘I just want to recover and move on’, their journey may not involve courtrooms or legal battles, but it is no less courageous. It’s a path shaped by personal choice, safety, and the hope of rebuilding life on their own terms . W ith the introduction of ARP, they have that option as well.”   And the need is great.   In less than just a year, ARP has received more than 450 enquiries. So far, 87 individuals have been formally referred for support.   Modern slavery can manifest in many ways and involve being forced to work under threat or harsh conditions with little or no pay, having no control over your job or personal life, or being made to repay a never-ending debt.   It also includes being tricked into work that is not as described, being moved or recruited through force or deception for exploitation, or being pressured into marriage, especially if underage.   At its core, the referral pathway program is about one thing: the individual.   “The main aim of our work is that one person,” Neenu explained.   “That one person that we are able to help. To me, it doesn’t matter the number. Every individual who we are able to help has that access to something they never thought would have been possible. We also make sure that they are in a safe place and they feel comfortable before they can actually share their story to refer them if they are eligible. Sometimes, it is the first time they are sharing that with anybody.”   Support is confidential, respectful, and non-judgmental – tailored to each person’s needs.   While many of those who reach out for support are women, the team also work with men and individuals of diverse gender identities. Each person’s experience is unique, and the team’s approach is grounded in respect, inclusivity, and a commitment to meeting people where they are regardless of gender – aged between 18 and 45. If a case doesn’t meet slavery indicators, there is no wrong door. Help is still available.    The program will connect individuals with other relevant services, both within the Salvos and externally. Well-trained, trauma-informed case managers conduct an assessment using an ARP-designed tool. They can also provide brokerage for those impacted by slavery in terms of emergency support, vouchers, food, accommodation, phone or other travel costs.   The program is led by The Salvation Army in partnership with five key organisations: Anti-Slavery Australia, Project Respect, the Australian Centre of Health and Human Rights, the Scarlet Alliance – Australian Sex Workers Association, and the Red Cross.   Together, they are tackling a crime hidden in plain sight.   Affiliated programs include the Red Cross Support for Trafficked People program and Life Without Barriers Forced Marriage Specialist program. Salvos services such as Doorways, homelessness, and counselling support can also assist the victim-survivors.   So, how do people fall into modern slavery?   “At times, it is a deceptive recruitment,” Neenu shared.   “Or it is within an intimate relationship … people who are vulnerable in other areas, like economically or with physical disabilities. They (the perpetrators) use their vulnerability to exploit them. Some cases of slavery stretch back decades. Others are migrants who arrived with a temporary visa, and it is not valid anymore, isolated and vulnerable.”    And the perpetrators? They are not always strangers. They can be family, a friend, community member, or a neighbour.   Modern slavery is a crime in Australia and is governed by Commonwealth sections 270 and 271, which cover offences such as human trafficking, slavery and slavery-like practices. While many of those who reach out to the ARP program for support are women, the team also work with men and individuals of diverse gender identities too. (Photo courtesy of Dominika Mazur,  pexels.com ) Contrary to popular belief, the majority of victim-survivors are Australian citizens with diverse backgrounds. Cases come through word of mouth, friends, family, organisations and community outreach – and even Artificial Intelligence (AI).   “Victim-survivors also come through ChatGPT,” Neenu said. “They will give their story in the ChatGPT portal with ChatGPT suggesting ARP as a program to go.”   The program has a website with an email ID and a toll-free number, so people can use either of those in terms of getting in touch with ARP.  A huge mix of people from all walks of life come through the program via different platforms – but a significant portion of those the program supports have found their way to ARP on their own, a testament to growing awareness and trust in its services .   But there is always one harsh reality: Modern slavery leaves deep, lasting scars.   “It is control, it is deception,” Neenu explained.   “It is trying to manipulate somebody and take control over their life. That’s kind of how they continue to perpetrate this. So, obviously, that is something that we have seen. Emotionally, it is really draining for the person who is going through that experience. There is a high level of trauma. After the additional referral pathway program came in place, we have seen people with complex mental health issues in terms of the experience they have gone through ARP might be their only options to support provisions.”   Slavery doesn’t always mean locked doors.    Some victim-survivors might be living alone yet are trapped in exploitation for sex or labour. The control is psychological. The manipulation is deep. The emotional fallout is profound. Victim-survivors often face Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), high and complex levels of trauma, anxiety, and shattered trust – especially after being betrayed by someone close.   Obviously, all this actually can contribute to them not being able to function well in day-to-day life, Neenu emphasised. It can also become hard for them to go back into the community. And healing isn’t a straight line. The trauma doesn’t just disappear.   “Anyone can live a purposeful life without being entrapped in modern slavery.” “From a perspective of acute trauma, like a complex trauma … it never goes away," she added. "It is learning to manage and live with it. It is not being completely cured of trauma, but rather, learning to manage and live with it. It’s like a new reality for many of the survivors, so providing that support to recovery becomes crucial, and it is also a collective responsibility as a community.”   When escape becomes urgent, the ARP team acts fast. From providing phones to coordinating accommodation and transport, they help victims find safety – even if they are still trapped behind four walls.   “They will call us saying that I don’t have anywhere else to go, but I’m being exploited,” Neenu said. “So, we will coordinate that escape, and support with those things too, because victim-survivors can be entrapped in a residence.”   Looking to the future, standing up for what is right is all-important.   The community needs to come together to fight against it, Neenu remarked, adding it could not be one or two people like herself who are part of a program. It needs to be the whole community coming together and saying that this is it: “We are going to stand up and we are going to stand against it … We also need to have a better system where the perpetrators of slavery are prosecuted.”   Hope is also a key element in the fight against modern slavery.   “There is hope,” Neenu said. “Because people we were able to help otherwise would not have had the help. We are hoping that more and more awareness is generated across the country where we are able to help more people.”   And she counts herself fortunate to be part of a dedicated team, adding it was “pretty amazing” the ARP program was able to help victim survivors.   “Anyone can live a purposeful life without being entrapped in modern slavery,” she added. “At least I’m able to open up that pathway through an assessment so that they have the opportunity to progress in life.”   The Additional Pathway Referral program’s website and contact details: https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/additional-referral-pathway/

To read the Promoted to Glory notice for Denis, click here

Nearly 200 people attended the Get Hooked on Fishing 2025 event at Victoria's Arcadia Hatchery Visitor Centre, hosted by The Salvation Army North East Youth Services. BY LERISSE SMITH   You couldn’t help but get hooked – line and sinker.   Get Hooked on Fishing 2025 cast its line and reeled in nearly 200 enthusiastic locals for a day of rods, reels, and real connection at the Arcadia Hatchery Visitor Centre hosted by The Salvation Army North East Youth Services (NEYS) based in Shepparton in partnership with the Victorian Fishing Authority (VFA), Boats and More, River Connect, and the First Peoples Assembly of Victoria.   The family-friendly event welcomed anglers of all ages and experience levels to discover the joy of fishing through the come-and-try day in Arcadia.   And it was a full catch! “We had an incredible response,” said Jim Gow, Youth Participation Worker at NEYS. “It was a cracking 17-18 degree day with no wind. We introduced a lot of local families to the venue and increased their knowledge of fishing and the ability to come and visit this location all year round. Get Hooked on Fishing participants enjoy a BBQ as part of the family fun day. “We are really pleased with the turnout as it is more than last year’s great response. Robbie Alexander was a fantastic addition to the event and is amazing with families and kids.”   Now in its second year, the Get Hooked on Fishing event has built on the momentum from the youth services’ recent ‘Under the Stars’ success, demonstrating the powerful impact of community-led recreation and connection within the community. And the Arcadia Hatchery provided the perfect backdrop for the gathering on 31 May. Nestled beside a waterway teeming with native fish species – Murray Cod, Golden Perch and Silver Perch – the site doubles as both an educational hub and conservation centre. Fish bred here are used to replenish several waterways across Victoria, helping preserve aquatic life for generations to come. Visitors also got a glimpse of the site’s big attraction – the Murray Cod. But the special occasion was more than just fishing.   It was also about opening doors to new experiences and engaging young people aged 12 to 25 by putting on a range of events to do in Greater Shepparton, including Get Hooked on Fishing, to create spaces for recreation and social connection. “We too often hear that there is nothing to do in the area for young people, and we are constantly looking to change that,” said Jim. “This is very much a space that NEYS are looking to move into.” The Victorian Fisheries Authority, which owns the hatchery, opened for the day and brought along staff to run interactive workshops on everything from tying knots and casting to responsible fish handling. A highlight of the day was guest speaker Robbie Alexander - a local legend, passionate angler, and YouTube personality with over 90,000 subscribers. Hailing from Wangaratta, Robbie connected with families, young people and kids alike, offering advice and encouragement to new fishers. A highlight of the day was guest speaker Robbie Alexander – a local legend, passionate angler, and YouTube personality with over 90,000 subscribers. Hailing from Wangaratta, Robbie connected with families and kids alike, offering advice and encouragement to new fishers. Local fishing business Boats and More also added to the excitement with products on display and a lucky door prize up for grabs. Attendees brought their own snacks, drinks, chairs, and sunscreen, making it a relaxed, picnic-style day out with a purpose. For the youth services, the event was another step in their long-standing mission.   Since 2008, it has supported thousands of young people in the region in securing permanent accommodation options. It also owns local accommodation that can assist with crisis options for young people. All of their events, including Get Hooked on Fishing, are fully supervised and drug, alcohol, smoke, and vape free.

Australian officers Colonels Geoff and Kalie Webb with fellow officers of the Kenya West Territory. 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 (9-15 June) we are praying for the Kenya West Territory.   Australian officers Colonels Geoff and Kalie Webb lead the territory. READ MORE: The Webbs in Kenya   The Kenya West Territory has 1173 officers (926 active, 247 retired); cadets 83; Aux-Capts 1; employees 1552; corps 618; outposts 777; senior soldiers 130,263; adherents 26; junior soldiers 125,802.   Pray for Kenya West Territory Prayer requests: ·       Pray for the self-reliance of the Kenya West Territory, that God would provide the necessary resources and wisdom to sustain and grow The Salvation Army in this area of Kenya. ·       Pray for ongoing disciple-making, that Salvationists would remain committed to nurturing their faith, to following Jesus in their daily lives and sharing the gospel with others. ·       Pray for church planting in marginalised areas, asking the Lord to open doors, provide labourers, and break down barriers so that the gospel may reach the unreached. ·       Pray for youth and children evangelism, that young hearts would be open to receive the message of Christ and grow into strong, faithful followers. ·       Pray for political stability in Kenya, that God would guide the nation’s leaders and bring about peace, justice and unity across the country. ·       Pray for the wellbeing of all officers, that they would be strengthened spiritually, emotionally and physically as they carry out their ministry. For more information about the Kenya West Territory, click here . To download the 2025 International Prayer Focus schedule, click here .

(Left) Hot-air ballooning with my wife Colonel Wendy Walters. (Right) Looking a bit apprehensive as I prepare to bungy jump. BY COLONEL RODNEY WALTERS For two-thirds of my life, I had no reason to consider men’s health as something to talk about or be concerned about. I had gone through four major motor accidents, climbing trees and falling from great heights and living to tell the tale. I loved life and took great joy in exploring exciting experiences, such as abseiling, bungee jumping, parapenting (hang gliding and paragliding) off Queenstown’s Mountain, hot-air ballooning, crashing into goal posts on landing, skydiving, snorkelling, deep-sea fishing, water skiing, long-distance driving, and more. Other than aches and pains that came through those endeavours, very rarely did I give any thought to my health. Twenty-three years ago changed all that! I had finished a wonderful Easter Celebration weekend in Brisbane and then travelled back to Sydney. Within four days, I was in hospital, being told to get my house in order. I had prostate issues that started a five-year journey of oncology and urology tests and reviews. I had claimed healing from the Lord, and by those who had prayed for me and laid hands on me. I rarely talked about this, not because I was ashamed, but because sadly, not all my friends and acquaintances had such healing. I’m a realist and somewhat pragmatist, and recognise that, as I write this, some men will think that would or could never happen to me. Since then, I have had regular health checks. Colonel Rodney Walters. “I have also been able to serve in corps and remote or overseas appointments with a confidence that, although I may not feel I deserve it, I am blessed with each day of my life.” Men’s health remains a global concern, and each of us needs to undergo regular check-ups with a medical practitioner. There is no shame in recognising we are human and that our bodies are different from others. Talk with partners/friends! Don’t be surprised if they also have concerns. We are unique, yet also very similar in many ways. I thank God that when the doctor told me to get my house in order (prepare for the worst), I already had a relationship with my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. I had the assurance of the Lord’s presence with me as I took each day. I love my Jesus, I love life, I love my wife and family and am incredibly thankful for a Lord who sees, knows and can be trusted with all I am and care for! I’m not finished enjoying life, just as I’m not finished ensuring I maintain quality men’s health. Try it! *Colonel Rodney Walters is the Territorial Communications Secretary For more information, go to: https://gamh.org/mens-health-week-2025/ https://www.amhf.org.au/men_s_health_week_2025_20250609

Welcome to ‘Spiritual Life with Rosy Keane’, a new monthly column on Salvos Online . Each month, Rosy, the Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development, will share her thoughts and reflections on the spiritual issues that shape our lives as Christians, exploring how our faith intersects with our everyday experiences and how we can deepen our relationship with God. “You are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are you free to desist from it” (2:21). Pirkei Avot (Jewish text Chapters of Our Fathers) Recently, my husband and I, along with several other leaders, trekked to a large, old, ramshackle house with about 30 young adults for a weekend retreat. This time was meant for connection, friendship and food. Ultimately, we hoped the sessions would provide a space for the young adults to confidently wrestle with their identity in Christ, the Church, and our Salvation Army. One of the sessions we held involved using Post-it notes, which the young people could place on the whiteboard with questions for us to answer. These questions centred on reconciliation with our Indigenous people, belonging, faith practices, identity, and more. One question was on the future of our movement and their place in it. I reflected that the small replica of the Titanic sitting atop some tired old drawers there reminded me of the current state of the Church as I see it. We’re in the same waters, we’re still on a boat, the surroundings remain unchanged, but our vessel is completely different. We are in the lifeboats, and the Titanic has sunk. From what I’ve heard, the 1950s to the 1980s were a time when Western society was built around Sunday church attendance and the Christian faith. The pastors resided in a church that you attended, where you sat in the pew, perhaps had a coffee afterwards, and then went home. This is no longer the case. Many churches are closing, and the properties left abandoned are turned into cafes or developments. But our faith is still there. The Gospel is still there. The harvest is still there. We are in the lifeboats now and need to equip all our people to be captains of smaller vessels. This comes back to the heart of the church in Acts. After Jesus had left them, they must have remembered the crowds of 5000 and more, when Jesus bustled through temples and marketplaces, conjuring the thronging crowds that he had gathered. This was surely a Titanic display of togetherness! When Jesus left, there were just the 12, sequestered in the upper room; then, people travelled in small groups around the countryside and formed house churches. It must’ve felt like they were fighting for their lives. We know that the Roman persecution of Christians came not long after. And yet it was in this supposed setting of disaster, scattering and wreckage that God grew the Church. So perhaps, in acknowledging the disarray or the sinking of the Titanic, so to speak, of organised religion or Sunday church, this is where we might find the spreading of the Gospel today! As we take responsibility for navigating our small crew, keeping an eye on its location next to the other little boats, this may remind us of the Scripture where it says, “and there were other little boats with them”. Maybe there was never supposed to be a ‘super liner.’ A young woman at the retreat had attended a ‘community arts engagement conference’ the year prior and received a word from God. This was then confirmed at a General’s rally [last August/September], and at this retreat, she received her first vision after we explored APEST and the need for the body of Christ. In her story, I see that we still deeply need all aspects of The Salvation Army to wrap around our people and faithfully respond to the apostolic, prophetic, evangelistic, shepherding and teaching heart of the Christian Church. I asked the young people to forgive me for the times that we and other leaders spoke as if the Titanic were still there. The time has come for us to listen to each of the small group leaders, equipping local leadership, local young adults, and local seniors, as we move from the safety and security of ballrooms, kitchens, and one captain who wears the special uniform. As in the famous line from the movie, “I’m the captain now.” But instead of this being said in the spirit of wresting control away from the rightful leader, it’s about recognising and responding to the Spirit of God, equipping those who are needed to help us all reach the heavenly shore. * Auxiliary-Lieutenant Rosy Keane is the Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development