Registrations for Arise Men’s Camp will close next Friday, 10 October. Arise takes place on 24-26 October at Collaroy Conference Centre in Sydney. If you would like to attend, don’t miss out and register now.   This year, Arise will feature guest speaker Sean Nolan from Shire Salvos. He will be speaking on the camp’s theme of what it means to be ‘chosen’ in the image of Christ.       The camp is an opportunity to find fellowship and friendship. It provides a safe space where men can talk to each other and hear from God.   Arise is designed to be a booster shot for the soul. Come join your brothers in Christ. There are still places available, so don’t miss out. Register here   – MATTHEW PLON

Merri-bek Corps member Mark Patman (left) gives the thumbs up after the fitness class with Zac Nunns (Personal Trainer) and participant Luke Bird. BY LERISSE SMITH   Single men often feel isolated and unheard in society.     But an exciting new pilot program at Merri-bek City Salvos has shattered that silence with laughter, connection ... and a few sore muscles!   The five-week ‘Made to Move’ exercise program initiative has been a resounding success helping local men shift from isolation to meaningful connection, using group fitness as a powerful catalyst for community and support.   “It has exceeded expectations,” says Melody Lamb, Community Engagement Ministry Worker, who spearheaded the initiative through her role at the Salvos Community Connect space.   “With the pilot, we wanted to be very flexible because you are dealing with a whole lot of different personalities and a whole lot of different people with different needs. It’s also about budget and other restraints, so, we kept it really grassroots. But the relationships have been really worth it, and the growth in the men has been amazing.”  Melody Lamb, Community Engagement Ministry Worker, has spearheaded the Made to Move initiative through her role at the Salvos Community Connect space. A simple observation from Melody initially sparked the vision for creating the pilot – that single men were increasingly attending community breakfasts, table tennis, and other activities at the corps, but not connecting with one another.    Her response was simple but powerful: to create a space for movement, connection and healing through exercise.    “I got to know each one’s story,” she reflected.   “A lot of them had mental health issues and suffered from isolation, and that is why they were coming – just to be around people. So, I said, ‘Well, how would you feel about doing an exercise program? Exercise is actually so good for your mental health.’ They were all keen, so I set that up and ran it past my line manager. She thought it was a great idea. And then we went through all the proper procedures and started the first pilot to see if it was going to actually be something that would help and be beneficial. We made it five weeks, so it was realistic for the guys to commit.”    What started as a vision soon turned into a structured program supported by the corps, committed volunteers and a local personal trainer. Sessions were kept simple with bodyweight exercises, mats and a whiteboard to track the men’s progress.   Each weekly session lasted approximately 45 minutes, followed by some downtime, a brief chat with the trainer, refreshments, and, most importantly, connection and camaraderie.  Merri-bek Corps’  Made to Move pilot exercise program initiative has been a resounding success, helping local single men, who often feel unnheard and isolated in society, move from isolation to connection using group fitness as a powerful bridge and connector.  And the participant feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.    One participant aged in his 50s had been out of work for approximately six months due to mental health issues and trauma. At first, he couldn’t even walk through the door. He commented to Melody that he would come to the corps and “psych myself up” to come in, but sometimes, he said, “I couldn’t.”   There were days when all he could do was sit and look at the wall, unable to speak or make eye contact. But gradually, week by week, things shifted, and he was able to converse with the other guys and volunteers.    Another participant also shared a profound comment that stuck in Melody’s mind.    “What you guys are doing here has been better than any of the mental health experts have done for me,” he told Melody. Her reaction? “For me, it was whoa! ... that’s a massive statement,” she says. “People in the mental health field are so overworked, underpaid and doing the best that they can; however, they are completely overwhelmed, and for some people, the system is just not the right fit for them. They can feel rejected in that space.”  Celebrating the success of Merri-bek Corps’ Made to Move is Luke (left), Pajeep Khadgi, Mark, Zac, Xiang Sun, Jiangen (Jim) Guo and Michael. There have been some lighter moments, too.    One participant who had not done exercise in a long time informed her that he did not want to let her down, but could not continue with the class. And the reason? Sore muscles!    “He came the first week, and then the second week and then he said, ‘I don't want to let you down, but my body actually really hurts and I don’t think I can continue coming’,” Melody recalls.   “I was giggling to myself because, of course, their body hurts as they were all going for it and pushing themselves really hard on that first day. I said to him, ‘It was really natural that everyone’s body is hurting and brought one of the other guys into the conversation from the group who said they could barely walk either – and it really shifted something, and they began to speak up and share their thoughts with each other.”    This then led to two participants, Luke and Michael, being buddied up to encourage each other while exercising. They encouraged each other to push through together, right to the end, Melody explained, adding that Luke encouraged Michael to keep going and push through. Then the next week, Michael encouraged Luke to keep going after he hit the wall and wanted to quit, remarking, “I will do it with you.”  The greatest impact of the pilot program has been the community and inclusiveness, with participants, Michael (left) and Luke taking​​ a moment out from exercising to enjoy each other’s company. Witnessing a special friendship develop between the two men has been one of the many rewards for the corps team.   The exercise component was beneficial, but it wasn’t the ultimate objective. It was to build those relationships.    “The greatest impact of the pilot program has definitely been the community and inclusiveness," Melody says.   “The friendships that they’ve all bonded, it’s continued. It has just made our community bigger because they’ve built community within the community. The biggest impact is also to see these men now signing up to be volunteers, turning up every week, talking to each other, championing each other, crying with each other, forgiving each other, just doing life together has been the best. That has been the biggest impact."    There is also evidence of real transformation.    The men now don’t have to psych themselves up to visit the corps. They are around people, look people in the eyes, Melody remarked, and they have proper conversations and want to think beyond their problems and move forward with life.    The good news has continued. One man is signing up to study next year. Others are volunteering. They are setting goals, making plans – and they are dreaming.    “They actually have goals and hopes for the future and can’t wait to share them,” Melody emphasised. “Instead of their lives getting smaller, and all they can see is the pain, they are pushing through that, and they are doing it together.”    Some of the men also talk openly about their medication now - something that used to be off-limits.    “These men talk about their medication and talk with each other about it because it’s hard for them with the medications and managing the medications,” she remarked. “They are actually able to come to some kind of resolution on how to sort of push through and not get stuck in the frustration of it all.”  Personal Trainer Zac chats about all things fitness with program participant, Michael Carrethers, who has developed special friendships thanks to the group fitness program. A special celebration to mark the end of the five-week initiative took place recently, featuring a small ceremony and certificates, which celebrated the growth each participant had achieved – not only in fitness, but also in confidence, camaraderie and resilience.    The hope now is to roll out the program again in the future at Merri-bek, if resources allow, as well as in other Salvos spaces, tailored to fit the needs of each community. There is already interest from other demographics and other churches. Melody hopes that other corps will adopt the program, recognising its numerous benefits.    “It has just been really positive all round,” Melody says. “It is about empowering the community to empower each other. It is actually 100 per cent the reason why we did this. It would be really good to see others bring this program to their community and tailor it around their community’s needs. It will grow their people – and it will strengthen their community.”  WATCH MORE: View a video of the Made to Move program on Instagram here

Peter Lane outside his workplace, which used to be his home. Image: Kirralee Nicolle BY KIRRALEE NICOLLE Twenty years ago, Peter Lane spent several months living in what is now The Salvation Army’s Towards Independence Sobering-Up Unit next to Adelaide’s Whitmore Square. At the time, Peter was homeless and facing addiction. Today, Peter is a qualified Support Worker with The Salvation Army. The Sobering-Up Unit is now his workplace. When I met him for our interview, we sat in a very significant part of the building for Peter, in what is now Team Leader Kirsten Pennington’s office. Peter shows me around what was once his home for about six months, which has now been converted into three separate spaces. “There were four of us guys. We had a corner each. This was my bedroom. This corner,” he says, gesturing around Kirsten’s office. It’s also the room where Peter interviewed for his placement, which later became his job. I ask him if that felt strange. But for him, he says it felt really good. He tells me that when he began studying to become a Support Worker, it was The Salvation Army, and the Sobering-Up Unit specifically that most drew him as a place to eventually work. “They were here for me when I needed; it didn’t matter if I was in the middle of active addiction. They were here for me. And I think people need that. I needed it,” he says. In 2005, Peter was part of a pilot program for addressing addiction and homelessness, and over the years following, he found himself back at The Salvation Army dealing with addiction-related illness. After encountering The Salvation Army, Peter began studying at TAFE, initially pursuing a Certificate 3 and 4 in Community Service, followed by a Certificate 4 in Alcohol and Other Drugs, and is now working towards his Certificate 4 in Mental Health. But it hasn’t always been easy. Peter has now been sober for six years, but his life prior to that had been marked by recurring bouts of addiction. “My first Cert 3, I had to get them to print everything out for me,” Peter says. “I couldn't learn off the computer screen. Now I can do it all on computer.” At 54, Peter is experiencing a new lease on life, with sobriety, a new career, and a restored relationship with a very important person in his life. Both Peter’s parents are now deceased, and while he grieves that they cannot see the change in his life, his belief in their ongoing presence is strong. “They never got to see me doing what I’m doing now, but I’m sure they can [see],” he says. When Peter was born, his mother was hospitalised for an extended period with complications from the birth, so the primary caretaker in his early days was his older sister, who was in her early 20s at the time and pregnant with her first child. Peter says their relationship was very close as a result, but once he started experiencing addiction, that connection broke down. “During my struggles with drugs, we sort of lost contact because she wasn’t putting up with it, and I didn’t want to put that crap onto her life,” he says. “We were [estranged] for nearly 30 years, but everything’s back to normal and great now. “That’s my closest thing to my parents. We see each other for lunch every week.” For Peter, his experience of addiction feels particularly heartbreaking because his first exposure to drugs was marijuana, offered to him during his school years by a close friend who never went on to face addiction like Peter did. For Peter, smoking marijuana as a young teenager led to taking methamphetamines as an 18-year-old. Then, he turned to IV drug use. He believes a family history of addictive tendencies played a part in how he responded to drugs as a teenager. As a young hairdresser, Peter and his partner had three children before the relationship broke down, and Peter became a single dad. Later, Peter’s drug use accelerated, so he returned the children to their mother, and soon after, he became homeless. He describes the experience of homelessness as “the worst”. “Alone,” he says. “It was scary. It was something that I’d never been through and didn’t know who to reach out to.” This was a far cry from Peter’s upbringing, where he had never been exposed to homelessness or lack. Peter’s upbringing was, in his words, “perfect”. “I used to complain when I was younger that I had older parents, that’s the only thing I complained about,” he says. “I had the perfect parents, perfect family, everything.” And it was family that motivated Peter to eventually go cold turkey. He says that while The Salvation Army’s Towards Independence program gave him all the tools he needed to de-program his brain from drugs, it took him 13 years to fully complete the process. “My children started using drugs, and I couldn’t tell them they were idiots,” he says. Peter began to wonder about the impacts of addiction down the generations, and as his children faced their own addiction journeys, he pondered whether his grandchildren would also know the pain of such a debilitating illness. “That was enough for me. Overnight, I just stopped,” he says. Peter says the greatest thing The Salvation Army offered him through the years of addiction was knowing that someone was there to help, whenever he needed. “The main thing was having the support and having someone there when you wanted to reach out to someone,” he says. Peter says the staff at the Sobering-Up Unit, including Kirsten and Program Manager AOD Services Tania Sharp, have always been really supportive of him, and that he is loving “every minute” of his work supporting clients. “I'm learning heaps from the fantastic team here,” he says. “I'm always in awe of how they treat the clients, how they work, their professionalism, everything. “I’m just glad to be a part of it.” Kirsten says having Peter come on board as a volunteer for his placement was a new initiative for the Unit, and having him around had been a “fantastic” opportunity for the team and clients. “It’s been amazing to watch Peter just become so much more confident and enthusiastic,” she says.

Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill launchs the new online magazine. BY SIMONE WORTHING “Today is a big day for The Salvation Army,” shared Chief of the Staff Commissioner Edward Hill, who led the launch of The Salvation Army’s new digital magazine, ‘All the World’, at International Headquarters (IHQ) on Wednesday 1 October 2025.   “In an era dominated by digital information, artificial intelligence and competing voices for our eyes and ears, we begin a chapter of communication that can be trusted to deliver quality stories of hope and change as a result of our Christian faith, witness and worship,” he said.   Across 140 years, ‘All the World’ magazine has told the global story of The Salvation Army. What began in 1884 as a print publication – and aptly named by Salvation Army Founder William Booth – now steps boldly into the digital age, with a fresh format and platform, and a renewed mission: to make inspiring stories from every corner of the globe more accessible than ever before.    READ: The digital magazine is now live and is available here It will be a perpetual magazine with articles published on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Commissioner Debbie Horwood, International Secretary for Programme Resources, welcomed IHQ staff and officers to the magazine’s launch and congratulated the International Communications team on reaching the milestone.   The Chief of the Staff also reflected on his personal relationship with ‘All the World’, recalling how as a teenager it opened his eyes to the reach and depth of The Salvation Army’s mission around the world. The new ‘All the World’ celebrates the legacy of the print edition while embracing the possibilities of digital storytelling. Through powerful articles, personal reflections and global perspectives, ‘All the World’ will explore how The Salvation Army is living out its calling as a church and a charity – uniquely rooted in local cultures, yet united in purpose.    “The demise of truth in the world beckons a Christian magazine that will share the truth about Jesus and the transforming, hope-bringing power of faith in him,” said Secretary for Communications, Australian officer Major Peter McGuigan. “At ‘All the World’, we are serious about Christian journalism on a global scale. We aim to inform, inspire, nurture and challenge our readers.” All the World team: Laura Booth (Editor), Marina Ley (Staff Writer), Major Peter McGuigan (Secretary for Communications), Berni Georges (Graphic Designer) and Joel Marks (Web Manager).  Major McGuigan introduced the ‘All the World’ team and quoted Revelation 1:19 as an inspiration and a vision for The Salvation Army’s international communications: ‘“Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later.' We want to inspire readers by writing about the history of The Salvation Army (‘what you have seen’), about the mission happening now all over the world (‘what is now’) and about the future (‘what will take place later’). In a very real sense, we envisage a prophetic edge to the voice of ‘All the World’.”   Articles available include: From Macau: In honour of the International Day of Older Persons, we look at how The Salvation Army’s Rui Xi Centre in Macau is ushering in a new era of compassionate, community-based support.    To Mexico: Meet Fernanda Rivera, Chair of The Salvation Army’s International Children and Young People Advisory Group. She reflects on the power of safe spaces for young voices in the Church: ‘Being part of this group has been an answered prayer for my younger self.’    Across the globe: Commissioner Jane Paone, The Salvation Army’s international ecumenical representative, reminds us that ‘Behind everything we do is an ethos that places us at the heart of the universal Christian Church ... Wherever we’ve been, we’ve served alongside and supported our sisters and brothers from other faith groups.’    And that’s just the beginning.  In the coming weeks, you’ll journey to a tiny library with big dreams in Korea, hear from Salvation Army personnel serving in remote corners of the world in our new column ‘Scattered’, walk alongside an emotional and spiritual care responder who supported families during the devastating Texas floods earlier this year, and in the ‘Unfiltered’ column, young Salvationists deliver raw, real and straight-from-the-heart perspectives from around the world.    You will also find theological reflections, thought-provoking viewpoints and stories that stir the soul.    This is ‘All the World’ – reimagined, re-energised and ready to inspire.   Click on the image below to view a video message from the Chief of the Staff to commemorate the launch of ‘All the World’ .   To visit All the World magazine, click here

Brendan Fitzhenry is remembered for his ability to build effective and enjoyable working relationships in The Salvation Army’s homelessness sector. BY ANTHONY CASTLE   The Brendan Fitzhenry Frontline Staff Awards are named after a Salvation Army worker who, for two decades, was a passionate advocate for those experiencing homelessness.   Brendan’s work with the Salvos, including his role as Senior Homelessness Specialist, made a lasting impact on the organisation. He played a key part in developing The Salvation Army’s National Homelessness Model of Care and was recognised for his ability to build collaborative and positive relationships across the sector.   He tragically passed away in July 2023, but his name endures through these awards that honour his life and legacy.   During a ceremony held as part of National Homelessness Week (4-10 August), The Salvation Army announced the recipients of the 2025 Brendan Fitzhenry Frontline Staff Awards, recognising innovative efforts by staff supporting people experiencing homelessness.   This year, a total of 22 nominations were received, with five outstanding staff members chosen as winners. The awards recognise the innovative and compassionate work of frontline staff who embody Brendan’s values of care, dedication, and excellence.   One of the significant highlights of this year’s awards was the introduction of the Lived Experience Expertise Award, a category recognising staff who bring valuable lived experience to their work, helping others navigate their own journeys.   Five outstanding individuals were recognised for their passion, resilience, and unwavering dedication to improving the lives of people experiencing homelessness.   The 2025 Awardees:   (From left) Sarah, Ben, Sam, Anthony and Alira. Sarah Duncanson – Team Leader, The Salvation Army Homelessness Barwon (Vic.) With over a decade of service, Sarah Duncanson has been a dedicated part of the Salvos’ homelessness services. Starting as an Entry Point Intake worker and later progressing to a Team Leader, Sarah has consistently shown strong advocacy for her clients. She handles complex cases with determination and compassion, ensuring positive outcomes for those in need. Her ability to build solid relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders has made her a vital member of her team’s success.   Ben Sleith-Starr – Team Leader, Outreach Support Services, The Beacon (WA) Since joining The Beacon team in August 2024, Ben has quickly established himself as an invaluable team member. His role in championing the Work Development Permit Scheme (WDPS), which enables clients to work off court fines, has had a significant impact. Ben’s collaborative approach extends beyond his direct responsibilities, actively participating in national forums and quality improvement initiatives.   Sam Martin – Assertive Outreach Worker, Early Intervention & Assertive Outreach, Inner City Men's Accommodation Service Sydney (NSW) Former volunteer turned Assertive Outreach Worker, Sam Martin’s work is grounded in his strong community ties and his ability to connect with the challenges faced by rough sleepers. Sam’s non-judgmental, solution-focused approach has helped him gain trust even with some of the most service-resistant individuals. His work involves pre-dawn patrols and close collaboration with local mental health and drug and alcohol services, ensuring long-term housing solutions for entrenched rough sleepers.   Anthony Davis – Case Manager, Cairns Homelessness Services (Qld) With nine years of service in Cairns, Anthony Davis has gained respect from both clients and colleagues for his unwavering commitment to homelessness services. His trauma-informed, culturally safe, and strengths-based approach to case management has assisted many clients in their journey towards stability. Anthony has played a key role in shifting his team to a mobile support model, demonstrating leadership and dedication in both his casework and team-support roles.   Amira Healy (Lived Experience Expertise Award) – Peer Support Worker, Hospital Discharge Program, Transitional Supported Accommodation Adelaide (SA) Amira Healy has quickly become a beacon of hope and support for residents of Kurlana Padnipadninya, a new transitional supported accommodation service in South Australia. Her peer support work, alongside her creative initiatives to enhance self-care and morale within the team, exemplifies her dedication. Amira’s approach not only encourages positive outcomes for residents but also inspires her colleagues with her empathy, enthusiasm, and thoughtful messages of support.    The Brendan Fitzhenry Frontline Staff Awards remain a powerful reminder of the difference that frontline workers make every day in the lives of some of the most vulnerable members of society.

Salvation Army personnel, volunteers and community members joined the Brisbane Salvos Sleepout 2025 to raise awareness and funds for homelessness.   BY SIMONE WORTHING “Homelessness is very lonely, and sometimes you just need a hug.” “Homelessness does not discriminate and is a living reminder of the systematic and societal inequalities humans face on a daily basis.” “You are never alone. You are important and you deserve a loving home to call yours.”   These quotes are just a few of the notes handwritten and displayed by participants of the Salvos Sleepout at the Brisbane Showgrounds on 12 September. A total of 96 people took part in the sleepout, now in its fifth year, raising awareness and a record $70,634 for women experiencing homelessness in the local community.   Sleepout participants heard a powerful testimony from Marley, a woman with lived experience of homelessness and domestic violence who shared part of her journey, including her referral to The Salvation Army’s Brisbane City Women’s Homelessness Services, the freedom from fear and “dream” life she now enjoys, and her work in advocacy and helping others impacted by homelessness.   Giang Nguyen, Team Leader, Brisbane City Women’s Homelessness Service, also spoke at the sleepout, thanking Marnie, her staff joining the event, sponsors and participants; and explaining the work of the service and how the funds raised will assist that ever-increasing work.   “This event is such an amazing thing for the work that we do,” Giang said. “It’s not just the money raised. The money raised though, helps stretch our work so far. It helps people in their unique situations; it lets us be flexible and really walk alongside people with the exact challenges that they're experiencing. “This is a really amazing thing because, like we’ve been saying, people’s experiences of homelessness are unique and really different, so to be able to use that money for lots of different needs is very important.” The Salvation Army Emergency Services (SAES) food truck provided “legendary burgers” for all, and there were limitless hot drinks from the Streetlevel Mission coffee van to help keep people warm and caffeinated.   Teams of volunteers set up the showground area for the event, and others assisted on and through the night. These included representatives from The Salvation Army Homelessness, Fundraising and External Communications teams.   Sixteen team members from TechnologyOne, long-term partners of The Salvation Army, participated in the sleepout and raised money for the event as well. One volunteer, Holly, said it was a privilege to help support such an amazing cause. “It’s absolutely wonderful that we can raise funds for, but also awareness, of the issue of women’s homelessness,” she said.   Simon Gregory, National Manager - Community Fundraising, shared that this year’s sleepout was a record-breaking year in both number of participants and money raised. “We hope this continues to grow,” he said. “We have created a community of people who really care about the issue, and want to make a difference for women living in homeless situations.   “It’s been great to see some corps here; the SAES, Streetlevel and Salvos Stores have joined in, and it’s just great that we can partner with other Salvos departments and teams.” Click through the slideshow below for more photos of the sleepout.

Colonels John and Lani Chamness say they feel deeply privileged and humbled by the opportunity to serve in Australia. Colonels John and Lani Chamness officially start their Australia Territory appointments today. However, due to a delay in visa processing, they will begin their roles remotely. John is taking on the role of the new Chief Secretary, following Colonel Winsome Merrett’s retirement, and Lani is the Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries and Leader Development (Officers). The Chamnesses are originally from the USA Western Territory and had been serving as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development in Canada and Bermuda since 2023.  Major Kim Haworth will continue to hold the Chief’s delegations from Territorial Headquarters in Melbourne until the Chamnesses arrive. Welcome events will be rescheduled. In the meantime, the Chamnesses have sent a message to the Australia Territory as they start their appointments today.   Dear friends across the Australia Territory,   We are so excited to begin this new chapter with you, even if it starts from a distance! While we await the finalisation of our visa arrangements, we’re grateful for the opportunity to begin our appointments remotely and to start connecting with you in heart and spirit.   We feel deeply privileged and humbled by the opportunity to serve alongside you in this vibrant and mission-focused Territory.   We continue to hear about the incredible ministries happening across Australia, and we’re inspired by the stories of transformation and compassion.    In Canada and Bermuda, where we’ve most recently served, the territory has been focused on inspiring Salvationists for mission, a theme that resonates deeply with us. To be “inspired for mission” means to rediscover the passion and purpose God has placed within us. It means lifting our eyes from the busyness and burdens of daily work to see the beautiful possibilities before us.   The Salvation Army is a force for good, a movement of transformation. We believe that when we stop holding back and lean fully into God’s calling, we can reawaken a passion that changes lives and communities. Let’s worry less about what doesn’t matter and more about what does, bringing hope, healing, and salvation to the world.   We’re honoured to join you in this mission. Thank you for your prayers, your grace, and your welcome. We look forward to meeting you in person very soon.   God bless you all,   Colonels John and Lani Chamness

The masthead of the article titled ‘Four Epochs’ that appeared in the September 1901 edition of The Victory newspaper. BY BARRY GITTINS   Next year will mark 125 years since The Salvation Army celebrated “four epochs” in the history of The Salvation Army.   These epochs are eras that marked God-sent leaders who galvanised Salvationists and thundered into battle with them, making an impact “in this southern land”.   The September 1901 issue of  The Victory  commemorated such early “pioneers as Brigadier Saunders, from the motherland”, who, with his comrade John Gore, “first planted the Army flag [with] no public demonstrations, no enthusiastic send-off”.   The Salvation Army started with whispers of hope; whispers that led to roars of joy.   The story of Salvationism Down Under evokes the lyrics of Earth, Wind and Fire’s evergreen anthem,  September : “Do you remember? Love was changin’ the minds of pretenders, while chasin’ the clouds away … Our hearts were ringin’ in the key that our souls were singin’ …How we knew love was here to stay.”   Epoch 1: Colonel James Barker The Victory  lauded the epochs that followed, starting with James Barker, whose “advent created a sensation and a furore of revival enthusiasm”. Ten thousand people crowded into Melbourne’s Exhibition Building for the Army’s first Victorian anniversary; 8000 turned up the same year to celebrate the same anniversary in Sydney. Three influential men who established early Salvation Army work: Colonel Barker, Commissioner Howard and Commissioners Coombs. Epoch 2: Commissioner T. Henry Howard “The arrival of Commissioner Howard was another epoch,” the Army added, freeing up Barker “for the Social Work, which the Lord had destined as his life work”.   Howard’s abilities as a holiness teacher were not immediately felt “by the red-hot, rowdy, rollicking Salvationists of those days [but his] immense value soon became evident … as his deep, heart-searching holiness meetings and spiritual campaigns sifted the pure and the spurious, bringing hundreds into the experience of full salvation.”   Epoch 3: Commissioner T.B. Coombs Commissioner T.B. Coombs’ arrival and role as “an evangelist, sensational and emotional, full of dash and go-aheadism [and] a teacher and preacher of the inner secrets of the spiritual life”, ushered in “the next epoch [leaving] a fragrant memory for many tried officers and soldiers”.   Epoch 4: Commandant Herbert and Mrs Cornelie Booth “The fourth epoch commenced when Commandant Herbert and Mrs Cornelie Booth arrived in Australasia in 1896,” The Victory  crowed, with Salvos “claiming the appointment as an answer to their prayers”.   Declaring the Booths’ leadership as “full of actual and tangible increase, and so productive of good [that] it will largely affect the future of the Army flag in Australasia”, the article noted the incessant labours of the couple, bouts of ill health and their constant efforts “in the depths of the slums and the higher circles of society” embodying “real hard work and the manifestation of a restless, energetic and indomitable spirit … during the past five conquering years!”   The laudatory words of the article are kind; indeed, kinder than subsequent actions. Commandant Herbert Booth and his wife Cornelie.  Early in 1901, the emotional toll on Herbert from his strained relations with his father, General William Booth, and his big brother, Bramwell, led Herbert to resign his commission as a Salvation Army officer.   His Gethsemane days were spent at a Salvation Army property on the Collie River in Western Australia, preceding his departure and the negotiations for his severance.   Herbert left the work knowing from the experience of some of his siblings that he could be ostracised by his family and by the Army. Commissioner James Hay even had Herbert’s name removed from foundation stones and building plaques [some were later restored].   So, it was fitting that the Booths’ contribution to the growth and health of The Salvation Army was noted in print before he became persona non grata.   The work of salvation and The Salvation Army went on, despite the all-too-human frailties of God’s servants.

This digital age can be very confusing for our older generations.  Image: Caleb Jack on Unsplash The United Nations International Day of Older Persons is celebrated each year on 1 October. This day highlights the important and valuable contributions that older people make in our community, as well as some of the challenges they face and the support they need to age with dignity, independence and inclusion. In Australia, there were approximately 4.4 million people aged 65 and over as of 2022, making up 17.1 per cent of the population. In this Viewpoint, Salvos Online journalist Anthony Castle writes about seniors ‘left behind’ in an increasingly digital world and how the Salvos, and others, are advocating for those older people targeted and excluded by new technologies.   BY ANTHONY CASTLE Nancy considered getting a dog after the death of a close friend. In her mid-70s, she thought a pet could offer companionship, and she found a breeder on Facebook Marketplace. After sending photos of a puppy, the Facebook account requested a $2000 deposit. Nancy paid the money, but the dog never arrived.   After realising she had been scammed, Nancy spoke with her Corps Officer (pastor) at the Salvos. Nancy felt her judgment had been impaired by grief. Her bank was unable to retrieve the funds, so she shared her story to raise awareness for others. In an increasingly digital world with more online predators, older Australians are being left behind.   “Incidental ageism is pervasive with the adoption of new technologies,” says Emily Seiler, Policy and Advocacy Adviser with The Salvation Army. “There are so many things that have been around for less than a decade, and that’s just how we do it now. People get left behind.”   Financial abuse The Salvation Army submitted a response to the Federal Government’s National Plan to End the Abuse and Mistreatment of Older People earlier this year. The Salvos highlighted financial abuse, including scams, fraud, unfair business practices and family pressures, along with the importance of connectedness and communication regarding services and community.   “Although financial abuse might be seen by some people as less serious, all abuse is harmful. The integration of new technologies into our daily routines has caused a drastic shift in how all consumers, including older people, interact with governments, businesses and their community,” Emily says.   Increased risk Although online service delivery offers convenience for many, older individuals left behind by this digital transition often find themselves digitally excluded. This digital exclusion can lead to older people being unable to meet their basic needs or being forced to interact with technology they are unfamiliar with or uncomfortable using. This forced digital migration leaves older people at a greater risk of falling victim to scams. Emily Seiler, Policy and Advocacy Adviser, says older people are at a greater risk of falling victime to scams.  “Scams are prolific and create this entire sense of danger,” says Emily. “This can cause apprehension for older people, and lead to both social isolation and financial harm.”   Scammers often pose as trusted brands and services to appear legitimate. The Salvation Army brand has also been exploited, with scammers creating a fake No Interest Loans (NILS) Facebook page that mirrors the genuine Salvos page. Multiple community members received messages from a fake profile requesting their bank details to complete their application. While many recognised the scam, reported the page and alerted The Salvation Army, some people were not so lucky. Several community members lost thousands of dollars, including an older gentleman who lost about $8000.   “A time of significant risk is after the death of a spouse,” Emily says. “Specialising in relationships, where members of a couple will each take on specific tasks that complement their skillset, creates a large risk for the widow or widower. We heard from one man who said the first bill he ever paid independently was his partner’s funeral.”   Recommendations The National Plan had not previously included scams and fraud in its definition of financial abuse. The Salvation Army’s submission recommends that scams and fraud be acknowledged as a form of mistreatment and abuse, with significant impacts on older people.   The Salvation Army has also recommended that the National Plan work with key service providers to ensure services and essential communications are in formats accessible to older people.   “There is help available if you think you may have been scammed,” Emily says. “If you think you or someone you know has been scammed or is experiencing financial abuse, The Salvation Army’s Moneycare financial counsellors are here to support you to understand what options might be available to you.”   • To make an appointment to see a Moneycare financial counsellor, please call 1800 722 363 • If you think you’ve been scammed, contact scamwatch.gov.au

1. What is your current appointment, and what do you find most satisfying about it?   My current appointment is at Townsville Corps with a focus on community engagement and support. There are many hats as a corps officer that you wear on a day-to-day basis, but where I see the Kingdom of God flourish on Earth is when I am privileged to journey alongside others. I have been fortunate with the community engagement focus and being in the corps for several years to meet many who think they are coming to gain experience for other jobs, help out a charity or just to meet mutual obligations with government agencies. Working alongside them, conversations naturally flow and ‘God moments’ and ‘God questions’ inevitably arise. I am always amazed at what God does in the hearts of others if we are obedient and allow him to do the work in the lives of those we live and work alongside.   2. Away from the appointment – if that’s possible! – what do you do to relax or unwind?   I am a huge reader and will devour anything with words. There have been many a day of self-inflicted weariness because a book was too interesting to put down, or I was just going to read another chapter. I also enjoy time with family Binge-watching our latest series.   3. What’s a favourite Christian song and why do you like it?   One of my current favourites is It is Well by Horatio Gates Spafford, Kristene DiMarco and Philip Paul Bliss. I had always loved the old hymn by Fanny Crosby, but this reworking, which I heard for a while when things weren’t going well, reminded me of where my strength came from. It was also played one Sunday when I was wrestling with my decision to take up officership, and it was a confirmation that this was the next stage in my journey of faith.   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 love Nehemiah. Over the past few years, I have heard teaching and had devotionals come across my desk that have focused on him and the work he did to rebuild the walls. I would love to chat with him about the whole process from start to finish. If time were a factor, I would want to know most about his journey as a person and how he stayed true to the course despite having to wait for God’s timing and then facing constant opposition and setbacks.   5. If you were talking to a group of Salvationists and they asked if you recommended officership or not, what would you say?    I have found officership to be a place of privilege to walk alongside and shepherd those I have been called to serve. Officership is not for everyone, and it is hard work. However, if you have been called, take it seriously. It might take a few years before you are ready (it took me 10 years of ministry before I made the decision). Listen to the voice of God, get a good mentor, and learn all you can, and the way will be made clear in God’s timing. To learn more about becoming an officer in The Salvation Army, click here

In this God Defining Moment video, Major Steven Haworth shares a powerful experience from his early Christian walk. While commuting to work as a carpet layer, Steven listened to the book of Matthew on an old iPod. Initially, the words were just background noise, but during the second listen, everything clicked, and the Scriptures made perfect sense.

Salvation Army Territorial Commissioner, Miriam Gluyas, officially launched the new faith community of hope with chaplain Boaz Smith. BY LERISSE SMITH   Boaz Smith still remembers the poignant moment a simple, yet powerful vision struck – to start a church in the community he calls home.   It was bold. It was daunting. But it cemented his purpose as the chaplain of The Salvation Army Flagstaff Men’s Crisis Accommodation in Melbourne’s western region – a centre that provides temporary housing for men experiencing homelessness.   “There was this strong feeling I could do more,” he recalls, reflecting on the moment his church came to life.   “After two years in the chaplain role, something stirred deeper. I spoke with my team leader and said, ‘I have a vision for us to start a church service here on a Sunday.’ And he said, ‘Well, why not? We can give it a try and see how it goes.’”   That simple encouragement lit the fuse. A full year of planning, praying and persevering followed, culminating in the official launch of Flagstaff Community Church on 7 September.   The community gathered to celebrate at the centre’s chapel. Among the attendees were The Salvation Army’s Territorial Commissioner, Miriam Gluyas, who officially launched the new faith community; Secretary for Spiritual Life Development, Rosy Keane; and Team Leader, Les Smith – three key sources of prayer and support for Boaz and his team. A special mural unveiling also added colour and meaning to the day – ‘Jesus-centred, Sprit-led, hope revealed’ – with guests encouraged to paint the final touches. The mural that adorns the wall of the chapel. “It was such a privilege,” reflects Boaz. “Just being in a space where people from places came together to grace the occasion. And of course, having the Commissioner attend was a tick of approval.”   Doubts dispelled But the road to that moment wasn’t smooth. Doubts crept in for Boaz. Negative thoughts kept resurfacing.   “I remember thinking, what will the service even look like? Will we get it right? Will anyone come?” he says.   “What if something happens to disrupt it? When God is coming somewhere, the devil also tries to fight. But my doubts started to fade when, a few months ago, in April, we actually started. It was a good service! We also invited the community to make it more lively.” Something special has taken place with the church adding spiritual life to the accommodation centre, Boaz says. Boaz clearly recalls the small beginnings. Only a few people showed up at the chapel for the first service. But the next day, he felt God speak directly to his heart – numbers did not matter. What mattered was that the doors were open and an option for anyone to walk through and experience connection and community with no judgement.   “That was powerful for me,” he says. “It shifted my focus from the crowd to the individual. Even one soul coming to God is worth everything.”   Since that unassuming beginning, something special has happened with the church, adding spiritual life to the 25-year-old centre, which houses 64 men at a time. Every Sunday from 1pm to 3pm, the chapel comes alive. Hymns, prayer, Scripture, preaching, and more recently, personal testimonies, fill the room. There is even plenty of time to chat afterwards. African praise and worship is next on the horizon.   But this isn’t just about church. It is about transformation.   “It’s about telling people their past does not define their future,” Boaz says.   “We believe homelessness is not the end. Even at your lowest points, there is still hope. God can see you through. The vision behind this ministry is to bring Christ to where we work because, in homelessness, there’s more of darkness and hopelessness.   “A lot of negative thoughts. So having Jesus in such a place brings hope. It brings life to people who think there’s nothing for me. Even at their lowest point, there is hope. You know God can see them through and that they have value.” Church attendees help create the special mural at the official unveiling of the church. Feedback from church attendees has been overwhelmingly positive.   Residents and community members alike have felt the impact of what’s happening inside Flagstaff’s chapel. They are desperate for God, the chaplain reflects, adding that the church attendees were not just coming to hang out.   A key component of the church is not only its inclusivity, but its intention to impact everyone who walks through the doors.   From the moment someone steps inside, Boaz wants the congregants to see the blue “Jesus-centred” sign and feel the atmosphere shift. It is community they are building – a community where everyone comes together to seek God and fellowship.   It is also an equal platform where Boaz wants everyone to know they are all God’s children. There is no hierarchy, just a chapel to worship God and fellowship in holiness.   But a harsh reality does exist among the centre guests – many of the men carry painful memories of church.   Some have been mistreated by church communities before, Boaz explains, but he emphasises to the men that it wasn’t God who hurt them, it was people.   “That is why we are here. We are going to treat them the way God would want us to treat them,” he says. “To advocate, to offer a place where they can belong, where they are not condemned, but welcomed. When they walk into this service, they are respected and treated well.”   And hope is everything for the men.   “You can be rich and famous, but without hope? It’s nothing,” Boaz explains.   “This church brings hope back to the community. My prayer for each homeless man who enters the chapel is that they experience calmness. After six months or more on the street, some people are full of anxiety.   “I want them to walk in and think, ‘Okay, I’m safe now. I can look forward to a better day’ and to help them forget about the past trauma and believe tomorrow can be better than today, so they can see a brighter future rather than live in a dark past.” Among the attendees at the official launch of the Flagstaff Community Church with Boaz were Secretary for Spiritual Life Development, Rosy Keane and Victorian Chaplaincy Team Leader, Les Smith – two key sources of prayer and support. Flagstaff Community Church is also not trying to copy traditional congregations – and that’s intentional.   “We are not changing church, but I think we are practising the more context of church,” Boaz emphasises.   “It’s not about expensive clothes, shoes or hats. It’s about winning hearts for God … The Salvation Army is not just about food or material help. It’s about being Jesus-focused, too. Because without hope, these things pass away. So, the ministry is to give them continuous hope.”   With the church now officially opened, the chaplain is excited about the days ahead.   “It belongs to God,” he says. “I won’t be here forever, but at least something has been planted. Some can come and water it. And people want to be part of a new thing that is growing. They want to be part of it – and it is fantastic.”  Clockwise from top: Fun and fellowship were the order of the day when the local community gathered to paint a new mural and huge sign as part of the official launch; Miriam puts the finishing touches on the mural; Victorian Chaplaincy Team Leader Les Smith speaks at the event; Aux-Lieutenant James Singer, chaplain at Foley House, was one of the guests.