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General Lyndon and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham received a warm welcome to Pakistan. “Our hearts are full as we reflect on our incredible journey to Pakistan earlier this month,” reflected General Lyndon Buckingham, world leader of The Salvation Army with Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries).   “The warmth of Pakistani culture welcomed us with open arms, gifting us with traditional Kohati caps, Swati shawls, garlands and vibrant flowers. What an unforgettable welcome! The Buckinghams received a warm welcome in Pakistan. “Our spirits soared with dance, choir and timbrel performances, alongside powerful Scripture readings, prayers and heartfelt testimonies. Each gathering was a testament to the community’s faith and devotion, with the mercy seat lined with souls ready to embrace the gospel.   “We had the privilege of meeting inspiring leaders, from department heads and divisional leaders to key figures in the national assembly, education and governance.   “We are thankful for the privilege to be part of The Salvation Army in Pakistan.”   Official visit The world leaders travelled the length of Pakistan – from Islamabad to Karachi – during a culturally rich visit from 1-6 April 2025. Salvation Army personnel introduced the international leaders to Pakistani culture, offering them traditional Kohati caps, a Swati shawl, garlands and flowers throughout their visit.   The leaders spoke at corps throughout Pakistan. “In each gathering, the mercy seat was lined with people responding to the Spirit-inspired messages of the General and Commissioner,” wrote Captain Yasmin Allah Lok, Editor, Pakistan Territory. Lahore to Karachi On 1 April, the international leaders met department heads and divisional leaders in Lahore. They also met with denominational leaders, members of the national assembly and key personnel in the education sector and on the governance board.    The following day, hundreds gathered for Officers’ Councils, during which the General encouraged them to be good shepherds and to ensure their motivation is pure and led by the Holy Spirit. At a public meeting, the General based his message on 1 John 4:7-12, and acknowledged a new corps (church) opening in the city of Chishtian. In addressing young Salvationists, he advised them to stay focused and urged them not to wait to begin their journey with God. (From left): Mrs. Lesley Marshell, Dr Azad Marshell (Moderator President Bishop of Church of Pakistan), Colonel MacDonald Chandi and General Lyndon Buckingham On 3-4 April, the leaders visited Islamabad and Karachi. “They met with denominational leaders with whom they acknowledged the privilege of serving God in different spheres but for the same purpose,” wrote Captain Lok. In public meetings, the General referred to Ephesians 2:4-10 and the ‘abundant grace’ received from God, urging Salvationists to share that love and mercy with others. Music at the meeting in Karachi At the commissioning of the Champions of the Mission Session of cadets on 5 April, the General challenged everyone to serve God as their highest priority. Commissioner Buckingham charged the new lieutenants to spend quiet time with God to guard their hearts and stay focused. Healing and restoration On 6 April, the international leaders visited Jaranwala, where a Salvation Army corps and other Christian churches and homes were set alight in August 2023. They met with people who had been affected by the incident and learnt about the work of The Salvation Army’s vocational trauma training centre that operates in collaboration with Forman Christian College. The world leaders planted trees in Islamabad and Lahore. A psychiatrist continues to work with children impacted by the incident.   To mark their visit, the General and Commissioner Buckingham planted trees in Islamabad and the Joyland Girls’ Home, Lahore.   For prayer requests from Pakistan, click here .

General Lyndon Buckingham in St Peter’s Square in the Vatican with thousands of mourners for the Pope’s funeral mass. (Photo courtesy of the General’s Facebook site) General Lyndon Buckingham joined leaders from around the world in Rome yesterday for the funeral mass of Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church.   The Salvation Army’s world leader was accompanied by Canadian officers Lieut-Colonels Andrew and Darlene Morgan, who are the Army’s territorial leaders for Italy and Greece.   The 88-year-old pontiff died earlier this month after suffering a stroke and irreversible heart failure. Dozens of leaders, dignitaries and royals joined about 200,000 mourners in St Peter’s Square in the Vatican for the funeral mass. The ceremony was steeped in tradition, focusing on the Pope’s deep faith and characteristic humility.   “ I am currently in Rome where I am attending the funeral service for Pope Francis,” General Buckingham posted on his Facebook site on Saturday.   “Earlier this week, I wrote to the Vatican expressing my deepest condolences to the Roman Catholic Church on behalf of the global Salvation Army.”   General Lyndon Buckingham with Lieut-Colonels Andrew and Darlene Morgan at the funeral mass. (Photo courtesy of the Canadian Salvationist Magazine Facebook site.) Honouring the presence of its officers at the funeral mass, The Canadian Salvationist Magazine Facebook site stated:   “As an indication of respect and an acknowledgement of the important ecumenical relationship with the Roman Catholic Church, General Lyndon Buckingham attended the funeral mass for Pope Francis today, accompanied by territorial leaders, Lt-Colonels Andrew and Darlene Morgan, officers from Canada.   “The Salvation Army is grateful for the ecumenical dialogue fostered under Pope Francis’ pontificate and the encouragement and challenge Pope Francis offered to the Army.   “Pope Francis, in remembering an encounter with Salvationists at a young age, said that the Army’s ‘example of humble service to the least of our brothers and sisters spoke louder than any words’.   “The Salvation Army honours the memory of Pope Francis and appreciates his challenge to acts of service and Christian witness. Indeed, may we be Salvationists who exude that much-needed genuine self-giving love.” READ MORE: The Salvation Army responds to the death of Pope Francis

Norwood Playgroup in Adelaide (SA) is more than a gathering for kids; it’s a welcoming community where families find belonging, support and love. Aux-Lieutenant Renee Pickens – Team Leader at the corps in Adelaide’s eastern suburbs – says the playgroup’s intention was always to “share the love of Jesus” with their community. Rooted in faith, the group’s focus is on offering a space to grow and connect that will ultimately lead to an encounter with Jesus.

(From left): Fighting Mac William McKenzie, a Sallyman truck, and a Salvation Army Hop In station. BY PETER LEAHY* The Australian Army has an enduring and special relationship with The Salvation Army. It stretches from the horrors of World War One through more than 100 years of conflict and strife to more recent conflicts. Today, it is nurtured during humanitarian and disaster emergencies and everyday training environments across Australia. On Anzac Day, it is worth celebrating this unique relationship. It has served the nation well in the past and will be needed in the future. It is a relationship built on trust, performance, consistency and deep care for our servicemen and women. Their work on battlefields far and wide has brought about a deep and enduring affection for The Salvation Army. It would be hard to find anyone who has been in the Australian Army who will say anything bad about the ‘Sallyman’ or ‘Sallyma’am’. Not many will go past a ‘Sally’ collecting in a shopping centre or elsewhere without tossing in a donation or making an effort to participate in the Red Shield Appeal. Going ashore at Gallipoli with the 1st Brigade, men like Salvation Army chaplain ‘Fighting Mac’ William McKenzie started a magnificent tradition. In one three-day period, Mac conducted 647 funeral services. After one of these services, he found three bullet holes in his hat. For his courage and dedication, he was awarded the Military Cross, a gallantry honour virtually unheard of for a military chaplain. Not much changed as Australia returned to conflicts far and wide across the 20th Century. Working as the Red Shield Defence Service (RSDS), The Salvation Army was a consistent and welcoming presence in places like Tobruk, Kokoda, Korea, Malaya and Vietnam. They were close to the frontlines, the hospitals and the rest areas. They were there with a cuppa, an encouraging word and efforts to uplift the spirits of those around them. “ ... every soldier knows they care, they will be there, and they will not judge.” The ‘Hop In’ tents became a constant across all theatres of war and provided a place to rest, read, write a letter and seek solace and spiritual care with the resident Sally. Here, they found a little bit of home and a softer touch. General Stanley Savige, one of Australia’s most famous wartime commanders and the founder of Legacy, highlighted the value of the relationship with our soldiers when he said, “It is the knowledge that someone cares.” Today, every soldier knows they care, they will be there, and they will not judge. Today, it is a relationship built on the delight of seeing a Sallyman and his green truck at the end of a hard day’s training or gut-busting march. The Sally will be standing there with a smile, a friendly word, a hot or cold drink, some biscuits and often some chewing gum. READ MORE: Still serving our Australian Defence Forces after 125 years These days, many soldiers may not share their religious convictions, but they admire and respect the Sallyman and Sallyma’am for their genuine, caring and compassionate manner. They offer practical, emotional and spiritual help to servicemen and women. We all know that their mission is backed by Christ, but they don’t push it down your throat and are ready to respond should the need arise. Most soldiers are just thoroughly good people, sharing the difficulties, the danger, and the privations to bring just a bit of normality to difficult situations. Who else but a Sally would drive hundreds of kilometres to get some ice for the cordial? Today, the RSDS are a small but enthusiastic group located in the larger military barracks and training establishments across Australia. The Sallies have been there for the troops in the past and are still with us today. Their mission is to provide physical, mental, social, and spiritual support to the ADF through a service that understands the challenges of service life, whether in barracks, in the field, or on deployment, helping ADF members and their families at their point of need. In recent years, they have been deployed with our troops to the Middle East, East Timor, Bougainville, and Cambodia. In addition, the broader Salvation Army supports servicemen and women facing challenges in transitioning to civilian life due to PTSD, substance abuse, and mental health issues. Crucially, they help provide purpose, direction, and hope. The Sallies have been there for the troops in the past and are still with us today. They will be needed again in the future and will be welcome.   *Peter Leahy is a retired Chief of the Army and is the current Chairman of The Salvation Army Advisory Committee in the ACT Lindsay Cox (left) and Colonel Rodney Walters at the launch of Lindsay’s new book ‘Still Serving’ in 2024. The Salvation Army Australia Museum Manager Lindsay Cox has authored two books on the Salvos’ relationship with the Australian Defence Forces. Purchase these two books – Still Serving and Cuppa tea, digger? – from Salvos Publishing To read a review of Cuppa tea, digger? click here

Today is the best day of the year to give someone a hug (Photo: Adrianna Geo). (Photo on right courtesy of Freedom Australia) BY FAY FOSTER Each year in Australia, 26 April is designated as ‘Hug an Australian Day’ – a day most of us have probably never heard of. This year, it falls on a Saturday, which gives most of us time off to celebrate. Although I wouldn’t necessarily recommend grabbing the nearest Aussie for a hug, there are lots of things we could safely do to embrace the idea of a hug. If you know someone who would love a hug, by all means, give them a big, warm one! That might include someone you haven’t seen for a while, like Aunty Jo or Grandad. If not, maybe you could invite a friend to go on a walk or drive to somewhere you both think of as true-blue Aussie – a beach, the bush or a country town. On the way, you could have a conversation using the lingo – things like having a chocky bicky for brekky, asking a chippy whaddya know, or telling a yarn with a few whoppers in it. You could also take a meat pie to your neighbour and maybe watch a footy game together. An Aussie doesn’t have to be a person. It could be an animal, a building or place, a barbie or dunny, or any aspect of dinky-di Aussie culture. Speaking of animals, this could be a great time to visit your local zoo or animal park and check in on the natives – the koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, dingoes, platypuses and lizards. If for some reason you’re confined to the house, maybe you could watch a rerun of Skippy or The Leyland Brothers, or find a show about Australian people, places or animals. Or listen to music from your favourite Aussie singer. When you’re working out who to invite to celebrate with you, don’t forget those for whom Australia can be a bit foreign at times – the ones who recently arrived or don’t yet speak the language. Having you include them in the festivities could be just the hug they need. Happy hugging! If you're a ridgy-didge Aussie, then today’s the day to give someone a bonza hug. Photo: Kiros Amin

Retired Salvation Army officers Lieut-Colonels Neil and Dorothy Young.  BY DEAN SIMPSON   Retired Salvation Army officer Lieut-Colonel Dorothy Young has had a wealth of experiences in her life, including a decade spent serving in a war zone.   At 97, she still possesses a vivid imagination and a lively intuition, which manifests in various ways, including in her writing.   Leading up to Anzac Day this year, Dorothy penned a heartwarming poem, poignant in its theme of a young boy marching in honour of his father. (Poem at end of story)   “The little boy in the poem is every child that marched and knew loss,” Dorothy says.   But first, a little more about the poem’s author.   Born into a working-class family in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, during the late 1920s, Dorothy grew up with a strong work ethic and determination that have enabled her to overcome many challenging circumstances.   She and her husband, Lieut-Colonel Neil Young, also 97, entered Salvation Army Officer Training College in Sydney in 1947 as part of the Warrior session.   The Youngs, fresh out of college in 1949, spent the next 20 years serving as corps officers in 12 corps across NSW and Queensland.   In 1969, they were appointed to serve in the African nation of Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia), where they spent several years in various roles at the Howard Teacher Training College and Secondary School.   Their service in the country coincided with the Rhodesian Civil War and the Zimbabwe War of Independence (1964-1979). Despite the conflict surrounding them, Dorothy and Neil remained faithful to their God and their mission.   Dorothy served as the Corps Officer at Howard Corps, situated north of the capital, Harare, for five years. She also taught Doctrine and Church History at The Salvation Army Training College at Howard Institute.   Neil served as the principal at the nearby Mazowe Secondary School in the late 1970s during a time when civil war hostilities intensified. The Youngs were instructed to leave for their own safety, yet they chose to remain, becoming the only foreigners left on the compound until their term concluded in 1978.   For the next 15 years, the Youngs held various roles, including pastoral positions, education roles at the training college, and in emergency services. They served as divisional leaders of the former Southern NSW and ACT Division from 1980 to 1985 and officially retired in 1993.   The Youngs have four daughters. All attended boarding school in Africa and eventually married men from four different countries – New Zealand, Australia, Rhodesia, and Sweden. They also have 14 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.    Dorothy’s Anzac Day poem:   MEDALS Medals on the chest of a little boy Marching along with the men. This serious, fresh-faced lad stepped out With the very best of them. With head held as high as his height allowed He seemed to be looking ahead. Did he see a cross near a battlefield Engraved with the name of his dead? Beside him marched his father’s friends They were pledged to look after him, And they sometimes smiled encouragement, As he marched along with them. He’s a ‘chip off the old block’ one of them thought, As they progressed through the city. The other one thought, “Shame, he didn’t come To see the pluck of his kid here.” The band ceased to play, as bands always do, Then, his Mum came to claim him and big sister shouted: “I saw you in the procession.” Some people may wonder, And some even ponder, Why do we have Anzac Day? But for one splendid morning This boy, with Dad’s mates Relived a day years ago When a man gave his life For the good of these two, Yes, those medals were not worn for show. – Dorothy Young

Poppies hold significant meaning on Anzac Day as a symbol of remembrance and sacrifice , particularly for those who lost their lives in World War I. Photo: Chris Sansbury on Unsplash  Loving God,   We gather to remember the sacrifices made by the original Anzacs and countless others in times of peace and conflict. We recognise the courage, determination and commitment of those who have fought for our country seeking justice, freedom and peace for all.   We pray for those who have survived conflict – those who carry the scars of their service in their souls, minds and bodies. Be with them. Strengthen and encourage them. Let them know that there are people committed to standing alongside them to support them in their struggles.   We remember those, mainly women and children, who suffered and continue to suffer, just because they happened to be in a conflict zone. May they know you are with them and experience the peace of mind that comes with your presence.   Be with the heartbroken – the spouses, parents, families, and friends – who endure the grief of knowing their loved ones will never return. Bring them comfort, hope and peace, we pray.   We grieve for those who, after their devastating experiences in service of their country, have ended their lives. We cannot understand the deep pain that they carried. Be with those who loved them – those left behind – who continue to be impacted by their death. May they, through your Holy Spirit, know your grace, comfort and peace.   We also pray for those who struggle with their service, be that in the past or the present. Be with them today. Help them to find the things that bring healing and peace. Strengthen us to walk alongside those who are struggling. May we offer them reassurance and hope in our actions and words.   May we, in our families and communities, strive to practise reconciliation, understanding and peace each day to bring about the transformation of our world. May we continue to build a nation where our differences are embraced as strengths, where our communities are free from harassment, discrimination and hostility, and where we resolve to seek the wellbeing of all peoples who call this land their home.   May your grace enable us this day to dedicate ourselves to the cause of justice, freedom, hope and peace; and give us the wisdom, strength and grace to build a better world.   We pray this in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.   Amen.   Prayer written by Major Brett Gallagher – Chief Commissioner of The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Defence Services. READ MORE: Brett’s reflection – Hope in the darkness

BY MAJOR BRETT GALLAGHER* Possibly my earliest memory of Anzac Day was going with my father and the Hurstville Salvation Army band to the local Sub-branch’s dawn service. We would march from the front of the sub-branch across a bridge over the railway and down the main street of Hurstville. The RSL members, friends, family, scouts and other community groups would march behind the band. It was eerie, as once we turned the corner from the street in front of the RSL club there were no streetlights and depending on the phase of the moon it was often quiet dark, until we reached part of the main street near the cenotaph where there were streetlights again. For most of the march there were few, if any, people on the side of the road to witness the march, and often only a handful of people waiting the arrival of the march at the cenotaph.   As I reflect this year once again on Anzac Day I have been drawn to this memory. I think it stands out to me for several reasons.   Turning up Firstly, the simple act of turning up each year for many years built a strong sense of commitment in remembering the sacrifice of others on my behalf. It is still not something I take for granted. In the ensuing years, as numbers began to decline at Anzac Day commemorations, this sense of continuing to turn up grew even stronger in me and my soul rejoiced as a new generation embraced Anzac Day. It is only a simple thing, but for me, turning up to the dawn service each year is a way that I can continue to acknowledge the greatest thing anyone can give someone else – the laying down of their life.   Hope in the darkness Secondly, in the darkness you can always find hope. When I started playing with the band I tried to remember a significant section of the marches we would play, as without streetlights I was unable to read my music. There were times when I was hoping for just a shred of light from one of the shopfronts, or that I would remember enough so that I would make it to the next streetlight. One of the things about going through tough dark times is, it is those that can hold onto hope that seem to be able to make it through. Each year, as different accounts of the ANZACs were read, this was one of the things that struck me.   Important to reflect And finally, the most important thing I learnt from this childhood experience is that it is important to spend time reflecting, not just celebrating. For some, silence and reflection are uncomfortable. It is difficult to be alone with our thoughts. As someone that enjoys being around people, silence and reflection are not natural for me. But as I stand quietly with many others there is a deep sense of connectedness and appreciation, a sense that in spending this time reflecting, some of the futility of wars and conflicts is diminished.    As I think more about this, I see the same things in the Christian message. There is someone, Jesus, who laid down his life for me. That because of Jesus, in times of great darkness and sorrow, I can still have hope. And that we need to make sure we don’t rush through life but spend time reflecting and appreciating these truths.   May your Anzac Day be one that reminds you of the things that are important to you.   *Major Brett Gallagher is Chief Commissioner of The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Defence Services Major Brett Gallagher in his role as Chief Commissioner of The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Defence Services – (from left) at an Anzac Day service, speaking with TSA Museum Manager Lindsay Cox, and chatting to the grand-daughters of WWII Salvation Army Sallyman William Tibbs.

Governor-General Ms Sam Mostyn AC (left) with Captain Ali McKeand at the recent Avalon International Airshow, Victoria. BY SIMONE WORTHING   Veteran homelessness is an urgent issue in Australia, affecting thousands of former servicemen and women who have dedicated their lives to defending the nation.   The Salvation Army has been taking significant steps to address this crisis for many years and continues to do so today.   Guided by the findings of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, The Salvation Army is implementing targeted initiatives to support veterans in need and to train those who support them.   Captain Ali McKeand, Defence Veterans Ministries Coordinator for The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Defence Services , and a Royal Australian Air Force chaplain, emphasises that their work is driven by the Royal Commission’s recommendations.   “The recommendations are out, funding has been made available, and we are aligning them with who we are as an organisation,” she says.   For veterans transitioning out of the military, the challenges of homelessness, mental health and financial instability can be overwhelming. Many also face struggles with alcohol and drug dependency and the difficulty of reintegrating into civilian life.   “The defence community has served our country, and at the end of the day, they need our help,” says Ali. “It’s not easy to seek help. We want our veterans to know they are not alone.” Captain Ali McKeand in her role as a chaplain to the Royal Australian Air Force. Strategic support To enhance its impact, The Salvation Army is fostering partnerships with other Salvation Army departments as well as government agencies, veteran affairs groups and other organisations.   Ali’s role involves strengthening these connections to maximise resources and provide comprehensive support to veterans.   “This is happening organically, and we share the same vision with those we’re trying to partner with,” she says. READ MORE: Supporting the nation’s troops The Salvation Army is also working to improve the training of its chaplains who interact with veterans.   Understanding the unique challenges that former military personnel face is crucial to providing effective assistance.   “It takes a different type of understanding,” Ali explains. “This is what we want the training to do – ensure chaplains understand veteran differences and can properly support them and their families.”   Homelessness crisis Homelessness among veterans is particularly concerning, with statistics showing that 5.3 per cent of veterans experience homelessness compared to 1.9 per cent of the general population (Australian Housing Institute).   The transition from military to civilian life can be extremely difficult, particularly for those discharged for medical reasons. Many young veterans who leave the service unexpectedly struggle to find stable housing and employment, compounding their vulnerability.   “These young veterans have their whole lives ahead of them,” Ali explains. “They are struggling with their identity, and many suffer in silence. Tragically, the suicide statistics are not going down. READ MORE: A new response for the forgotten veterans “This can be hard for the Australian public to understand, especially as ‘veterans’ are often associated with older servicemen and women who have seen years of wartime service. Many from that cohort, who served in Afghanistan and the Middle East, are also still struggling.” Salvation Army programs such as Moneycare and Employment Plus are being adapted to meet the specific needs of veterans. The Salvation Army is also exploring opportunities to expand its work specifically in veteran homelessness beyond Queensland, recognising that it is a nationwide issue.   A call to action Ali encourages involvement at the local level.   “Look at your local area – see if there are veterans connected to your community or church. If there is a need, start something. It could be a playgroup for defence families or another community initiative. We’ll give you the training and support you need,” she explains. Ali has been serving with the Salvos in defence for eight years.   “I live and breathe defence and love what I do she shares. “Part of why I do this is to show my children that sharing the love of Jesus and making a difference can be hard, but it does bring change.   “The veterans have trusted us in defence, will they trust us out of it?”

Hundreds joined in the Easter procession in Zambia, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus. The story, the meaning, and the hope of Easter never change. Different cultures may celebrate the season with varying traditions, but around the world and across generations, the story and its life-changing meaning are the same. Jesus is the focus – his death, resurrection and the forgiveness, love and hope that bring for all humanity.   Around The Salvation Army world, from Poland to Zimbabwe, from Samoa to Canada, Salvationists and friends gathered for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday. READ MORE: General’s Easter Message – From garden to empty tomb Click through the slideshow below to view a selection of photos showing how our global family celebrated Easter:

Dee Fraser, Salvos Doorways Regional Manager of South NSW/ACT. and two of the Jesus figurines in Rome. Dee Fraser is a woman on a mission. A big one. And it’s deeply personal. A survivor of child exploitation, her passion for supporting vulnerable children has recently taken her across countries and cultures, armed with 100 tiny Jesus figurines and a heart full of purpose inspired by the Salvos. From Vietnam to Rome, her journey was not just a global spiritual pilgrimage but deeply transformative, as Salvos Online journalist LERISSE SMITH reports. Dee still remembers the incident as if it were yesterday. Walking through Qatar Airport, she clutched her carry-on for dear life. Inside were 100 tiny Jesus figurines: precious and priceless. Her heart raced as she approached the security checkpoint. What would they think? A bag full of miniature Jesus figurines wasn’t exactly standard luggage. She braced herself. Then something miraculous happened. The airport officials glanced her way and simply waved her through. No questions. No inspection. Just a silent, almost divine pass. Letting out a deep sigh of relief, Dee then embarked on her long-awaited global journey of faith and service last month, which she named ‘A Pilgrimage of Hope Revealed’.   It was to be a trip of a lifetime. Dee’s carry-on luggage full of Jesus figurines. Joining a group of her Catholic church friends and people worldwide, she headed to Rome for the 2025 Jubilee Year-themed  Pilgrims of Hope – and to distribute the tiny figurines to those who needed them the most. “It is really, really important for me as a survivor of child exploitation that I am supporting as best I can those countries who have an influx of exploitation, which at the moment is all through Europe,” says Dee, who is The Salvation Army Doorways Regional Manager of South NSW/ACT.   “When we have a war or a disaster, we know the risk of children being exploited rises. I feel that The Salvation Army has a really abiding faith in God’s children, and for us to do everything we can physically, mentally, professionally, emotionally to support these vulnerable children, irrelevant as to where they are globally.” For three weeks, Dee and her church community travelled through Vietnam and Italy, handing out the small white and blue Jesus figurines, bought online, with the words ‘Jesus Loves (symbolised by a heart) You’ etched across the front to vulnerable children – from orphanages and low-socioeconomic schools to soccer fields.   The reason? She wanted to take something tangible to give to children that conveyed a simple yet powerful message.   But the trip wasn’t just about distribution. It was about empowerment and connection, too. “I went over as a Catholic woman but also wanted to donate back to The Salvation Army,” she reflects.   “I wanted to understand how The Salvation Army operated overseas, particularly with child exploitation and engagement. Typically, when I go overseas, it’s about me giving back to the community services globally that are working with children who have been exposed to trauma and exploitation. I try to give something back in countries where they perhaps don’t have as much access to resources.   “For me, working with The Salvation Army, I could pick up the phone and ring any number of experts in their field ... but in some countries, though they may appear to be progressive, they don’t have access to resources. Sometimes it’s encouragement, sometimes it’s just letting them know whom they should be speaking to and what agencies are available.” Dee also spent time with police teams from across Europe, including Italy, Portugal and Switzerland, sharing information about agencies working with survivors, advocating for the work of The Salvation Army and ensuring the police knew they were heard and valued.   “We can’t do anything per se other than pray for their wellbeing and build that relationship,” she reflects. “That means we are going to go to our corps in that country and perhaps start that relationship. Also sourcing specialist help, too.” A vital part of Dee’s work was her ‘little book’ – a compilation of global Salvos contacts, from corps officers to area leaders, plus specialists. While overseas, it was a vital tool that helped connect people in need with the appropriate support. Dee’s work ‘little book’ – a compilation of global Salvos contacts, from corps officers to area leaders, plus specialists. It was a vital tool for Dee while overseas that helped connect people in need with the appropriate support. “If I had my way, I would have a whole team sitting at Qantas ready to fly,” she says.   “But the reality is we literally can’t do that. But what we can do is support in regard to who needs the information, and who are the most appropriate organisations in that country, including locals on the ground, corps officers and area offices. It’s so important because they are all embedded in community.”   While in Rome, Dee stayed at The Salvos Mission accommodation and liaised with staff to connect with child-focused organisations in France. Her lived experience of child exploitation helped bridge the cultural and emotional gap in delicate conversations.   Additionally, her work with the global staff including orphanages, police personnel and local child services, also involved sensitivity and understanding and alerting the locals about the importance of appropriate physical connections and using soft tones when supporting vulnerable children. One deeply spiritual moment struck her while standing inside St Peter’s Basilica.   “I was wearing an old Salvation Army T-shirt, which I know was a bit cheeky,” Dee recalled.   “But everybody was so very friendly. Lots of clergy were there because Pope Francis was so very unwell. A lot of people were flying in from different parts of the globe, and I remember one person stating: ‘Oh, you know The Salvos Mission? They are lovely people. They get things done.’ That was the main message you would get. You just get things done. And it was like, wow, they know us, which was beautiful!” Another powerful encounter came when a Monsignor approached her and remarked in English, “The Salvos Mission do such good work, great work.”   “You are standing in St Peter’s Basilica, you are in the Vatican, and they know what we do and do well,” Dee reflects.   “And I was just like, this is ‘Jesus-focused, Spirit-led and hope revealed!’ It was literally what Miriam (Territorial Commander Commissioner Miriam Gluyas) has been talking about for the past three years. It was beautiful.   “It wasn’t until I was in St Peter’s Basilica with the Monsignor that I realised how extraordinary an opportunity and how powerful God was to turn this damaged kid to standing with a Monsignor at St Peter’s Basilica, remembering all these beautiful words and grace from The Salvos Mission. It was the highlight. It was a moment of “Ahh, I get it. I get it!”   The significance of the moment overwhelmed her.   “It was a profound moment. I walked out and was in tears,” she says. “I was just not weeping, crying my heart out. It was like, ‘Oh my gosh, I’m not the kid back there. I’m the woman employed now.’” That shift in identity – from survivor to leader – was momentous.   “It was a huge shift that I’m not just that child,” she says. “I’m the woman who walked, who boarded planes, went through three different countries, and got to where I was. And I look back and think, how did I do it? Well, I got through it because I have great leadership and stewardship in my organisation and great faith from both organisations. So, that was really monumental for me.” (Left) A mural depicting girls holding hands represents a community service delivery to address the volume of family violence experienced in Italy. (Right) Dee gave a Jesus figurine to a group of nuns in Rome. Now, thanks to her journey with the Jesus figurines, there are 98 people around the world carrying a small message of love and hope. “Children, when they are exploited, are literally removed from all sensitivities due to the violence that they are exposed to, so that they lose everything,” Dee explains.   “They don’t own their clothing, they don’t own shoes, they don’t own anything. They don’t own their little precious bodies. So, when we give out the little figurines, it’s theirs. Their eyes lit up. And for them to hang on to it physically is fabulous, but psychologically and spiritually, it is really an extraordinary opportunity to take the first step. It was quite symbolic that the figurine represented God, The Salvos Mission, and the message ‘We care for you.’” Dee (right) in her role of a Doorways manger in Canberra, during a blanket drive last year. Picture by Karleen Minney © The Canberra Times/ACM. Journey to healing Dee remembers her own childhood when a quiet gesture helped start her path to healing. She recalls a moment from her childhood in a remote Northern Territory community that sparked her journey to healing.   Without judgment or pressure, a corps officer in the role of a flying padre gave her a small book. “I didn’t like people near me,” she says. “But he simply offered it and said I could read it if I wanted.” Unlike other churches that threatened her with spiritual condemnation, the padre prayed it would bring her peace. Years later, Dee was amazed to meet his sister at a work event. “It was God’s greatest plan,” she says. “That’s the power and blessing of Christ. I hold deep gratitude for The Salvation Army. They came with grace and helped me find faith and healing.”   And gratitude was shown in abundance when Dee and her team brought fruit, vegetables, and suitcases full of hygiene essentials to the orphanages, including hundreds of toothbrushes, tubes of toothpaste and soap. Whilst undertaking the support work, another confronting reality for the team was that many of the children did not even know where they came from due to being taken at a young age with no memory of home.   “It is up to us ... to remember, when we give back, it’s self-denial,” Dee remarked. “It’s a form of supporting those vulnerable people right across. We have got wars obviously going on, and that’s sadly where they target these little ones, these precious little souls.” To bridge the language barrier, Dee relied on something more powerful than words – hope, heart, and faith. And every step of the journey was soaked in prayer. She says the volume of people praying for them was extraordinary. One night, they worked from 9pm to 4am on a homelessness support mission. Now that Dee has returned home, she is planning yet another trip and hopes to return to northern Italy later this year, with the team also travelling to France after an invitation to collaborate with staff working with exploited children.   “We want to lend as much support as we can in that space,” she says. “So, it’s time to save my money – and get back to work!”

To watch the General’s Easter Devotional, see the video below the text. From the Garden of Gethsemane to the empty tomb, Easter represents the most profound moment in human history – the fulfilment of God’s redemptive plan through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As we contemplate this holy season, we witness divine love conquering death itself, offering humanity the greatest gift imaginable: eternal salvation through our risen Lord.   “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). This familiar verse takes on renewed meaning as we journey through the events of Holy Week, understanding the depth of sacrifice that God’s love required.   The path to Easter begins in the shadow of betrayal. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus demonstrated perfect submission to the Father’s will, even as his soul was ‘overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death’ (Mark 14:34). Despite Christ knowing the suffering that awaited him, his prayer reflects unwavering obedience: “Yet not what I will, but what you will” (Mark 14:36). This moment of supreme surrender teaches us that true faith means trusting God’s plan even in our darkest hours.   The events that followed – the mock trial, the cruel scourging and the journey to Golgotha – reveal the depths of human sin and the heights of divine love. As Isaiah prophesied centuries earlier: “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed’ (Isaiah 53:5). Every lash, every thorn, every nail bore witness to the price of our redemption. “The beauty of Easter lies not just in the historical events we commemorate but in their continuing power to transform lives today.”   At Calvary, we witness both the horror of sin and the wonder of grace. The Cross stands as the ultimate symbol of sacrificial love, where the sinless Son of God bore the weight of all of humanity’s transgressions. “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:21). As Jesus declared, “It is finished’” (John 19:30), he fulfilled every prophecy, satisfied divine justice, and bridged the chasm between God and man.   But the Cross is not the end of the story. If Christ’s death were the final chapter, our faith would be in vain. As Paul wrote, “And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith” (1 Corinthians 15:14). The Resurrection transforms everything. When Mary Magdalene and the other women approached the tomb early on Sunday morning, they discovered the greatest miracle in history – the stone rolled away and death defeated.   The angel’s proclamation rings through the ages: ‘“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said” (Matthew 28:6). These words changed the course of human history and continue to transform lives today. The Resurrection validates every claim that Jesus made about his identity and mission. It proves he is indeed the Son of God, with power over death itself. As Romans 1:4 declares, he “was appointed the Son of God in power by his resurrection from the dead”.   The implications of the Resurrection are profound and personal. Because Christ lives, we, too, shall live. His victory becomes our victory, his life our life. “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20). The Resurrection guarantees that death has lost its sting and the grave has been defeated. We serve a living Saviour who promises, “Because I live, you also will live” (John 14:19).   Easter morning ushers in a new creation. The power that raised Jesus from the dead is the same power that transforms believers’ lives today. As Paul explains: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17). The Resurrection isn’t merely a historical event to commemorate – it’s a present reality that offers hope, purpose and new life to all who believe.   This Easter victory extends beyond personal salvation to cosmic significance. Christ’s resurrection initiates the restoration of all creation, as God begins to make all things new. The empty tomb declares that sin, death and Satan are defeated foes. Though we still battle against evil in this present age, the war has been decisively won. As Paul triumphantly proclaims: “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57).   The Resurrection also empowers believers for Christian service. The same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead dwells in believers, enabling us to live victoriously and serve effectively. As Paul prayed, we can know “his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead” (Ephesians 1:19-20).   The living Christ commissions us to share this good news with a world in desperate need of hope. The women at the tomb received the first evangelical mandate: “Go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead’” (Matthew 28:7). That commission extends to all believers today. We are witnesses of his resurrection, called to proclaim the message of Easter to every corner of the earth.   This Easter season, let us rejoice in our risen Lord who has conquered death and secured our eternal salvation. Let us embrace the power of his resurrection in our daily lives, allowing his victory to transform our defeats into triumphs. As we celebrate the empty tomb, may we echo the words of the ancient Christian greeting: “He is risen! He is risen indeed!”   The beauty of Easter lies not just in the historical events we commemorate but in their continuing power to transform lives today. Because he lives, we can face tomorrow with confidence, knowing that nothing can separate us from his love. As Paul declared, “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us” (Romans 8:37).   May this Easter fill our hearts with renewed joy in our risen Saviour, deeper gratitude for his sacrifice and fresh commitment to his service. The tomb is empty, death is defeated, and Christ reigns victorious. This is the glory of Easter – not just a past event but a present reality that offers hope, purpose and eternal life to all who believe in the risen Lord.   “Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen” (Hebrews 13:20-21).   Lyndon Buckingham General To watch the General’s Easter Devotional, click on the video below.