1. What is your current appointment, and what do you find most satisfying about it? I serve as the Corps Officer/Team Member in the Westside Melbourne Salvos Hub, serving across Sunshine, Brimbank and Sunbury. Recently, I found myself reflecting on my Officer’s Covenant. One phrase captured my heart all over again. It speaks of proclaiming the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, caring for the poor, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, loving the unloved, and befriending those who have no friends. Guess what? I get to live those words every day. Westside Melbourne has wonderful worshipping communities, but my appointment has reminded me that ministry is far bigger than a Sunday gathering or preaching from behind a pulpit. More often, it happens over a shared meal, beside someone waiting for a shower, while handing out groceries, listening to a difficult story, praying with someone in crisis, or simply remembering a person’s name. If I could describe this appointment in one word, it would be ‘participate’. Isaiah paints a vision of new heavens and a new earth. Revelation closes with God making all things new. That has become one of the defining images of my ministry. Every act of justice, every expression of mercy, every life restored, and every person who discovers the hope of Christ becomes a small but real glimpse of God’s coming Kingdom breaking into the present. What a privilege it is to participate in His renewing work. That is why I feel so blessed in this appointment. 2. Away from the appointment, if that’s possible, what do you do to relax or unwind? Self-care has become an important part of my discipleship. Over the years, I’ve crossed many liminal spaces in life and ministry. I arrived at my first appointment as a single officer, and as life has unfolded, my understanding of rest has grown with it. Today, I find joy not only in solitude but also in the gift of meaningful relationships and sharing ordinary moments with people I care about. Those moments remind me that God’s grace is often found around an everyday table as much as in extraordinary moments. One rhythm, however, has remained constant: running. I love running because it helps me pay attention to both life and God. The more I run, the more I realise it is a wonderful metaphor for discipleship. Some weeks the kilometres seem effortless. Other days, despite all the training behind me, every step feels like hard work. Faith can be like that too. Following Jesus doesn’t always become easier with time, but we learn to keep putting one faithful step in front of another. I’ve discovered that when I combine running with the ancient spiritual discipline of meditation, the rhythm of my footsteps becomes a kind of liturgy. The problems that seemed enormous when I laced up my shoes often look much smaller by the time I get home, while God somehow seems much bigger. I also love reading. Books allow me to sit with great thinkers, pastors and saints who continue to shape my understanding of God and people. They remind me that while ministry happens in the present, we don’t have to learn everything for ourselves. 3. What’s a favourite Christian song and why do you like it? At the moment, it has to be ‘The First Hymn’ by Chris Tomlin and Ben Fielding. One of the unexpected joys of this appointment has been becoming part of the Brimbank Salvos choir, the Suavis. That may surprise anyone who knows me well because I couldn’t hold a tune if I wrapped both arms around it! Our conductor, Merryn, often asks us to ‘drop a note’. The problem is that my note usually lands in another suburb! Yet somehow, with remarkable patience, she gathers my scattered notes and weaves them into harmony with the rest of the choir. It’s become a gentle reminder of the Holy Spirit’s work in my own life. Left to myself, my life was out of tune. By God’s grace, He continues to gather the scattered pieces and compose something beautiful. One of the songs we sing is ‘The First Hymn’. What makes it so special is its remarkable story. It is based on what is believed to be the oldest surviving Christian hymn (preserved on a papyrus fragment), sung by believers nearly eighteen centuries ago. It is stuck on repeat in my car. I find myself imagining those early Christians lifting these same words to God, long before church buildings, denominations, or even the New Testament had been fully gathered. Their worship continues to echo through history. When I sing that hymn today, I am joining a chorus that began long before me and, according to Revelation, will continue long after me, when every tribe, every language and all creation gather before the throne to worship the Lamb. I love that thought. Worship isn’t simply something we do. It’s something we are invited to participate in. Across the centuries, God has been gathering scattered voices into one great chorus of praise, and by His grace, I get to add my voice to the song. READ MORE: Meaningless become meaningful for José 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 think I’d choose Barnabas. He is one of the quiet heroes of the New Testament because he had an extraordinary ability to recognise the grace of God at work in people. That is a remarkable gift because when someone sees God’s future in you before you can see it yourself, it can change the trajectory of your life. Barnabas didn’t simply encourage people. He helped them become who God was calling them to be. Have you ever met someone like that? Someone who saw more in you than you could see in yourself? I have. I think our Territorial Commander, Commissioner Miriam Gluyas, has that gift. There was a time when my application for officership reached a red light. Commissioner Miriam looked beyond my history and recognised what God might yet do through my life. That act of grace was, in many ways, a reflection of the spirit of Barnabas. We often remember Paul, but I sometimes wonder whether the Church would have embraced him in quite the same way without Barnabas. After Saul’s conversion, the believers in Jerusalem were understandably afraid of him. He had the reputation as a persecutor of Christians. Where others saw suspicion, Barnabas saw grace. Where others saw a dangerous past, Barnabas discerned God’s future. He took Saul, introduced him to the apostles, and used his own credibility to help the Church receive him as a brother. I’d love to ask Barnabas what he saw that others couldn’t. How did he learn to recognise the grace of God in people when everyone else was still captive to their past? What gave him the courage to risk his own reputation for someone whom others still feared? I think those are important questions for our own culture. We often define people by the worst chapter of their lives. Once trust is broken, suspicion comes naturally. Barnabas invites us to ask a different question: What if the grace of God is already at work in this person’s life? His story reminds me that encouragement is far more than offering kind words. It is seeing people through the eyes of grace, becoming a bridge instead of a barrier, and helping others become who Christ is calling them to be. By God’s grace, I hope to become a little more like Barnabas. 5. If you were talking to a group of Salvationists and they asked if you recommended officership or not, what would you say? I wouldn’t recommend officership because it’s a career – I’d recommend it because it’s a calling. Years ago, not long after my life had begun to change, I attended a Salvation Army meeting in Coffs Harbour with friends from prison and rehab. Commissioner Floyd Tidd was preaching, and throughout his message he kept pointing in our direction. I remember feeling increasingly uncomfortable. After the meeting, he came looking for me. He smiled and said, “I wasn’t pointing generally. I was pointing at you. God will use you in The Salvation Army.” My immediate response was, “Don’t confuse God’s will for your life with God’s will for mine.” I thanked him politely and walked away. At the time, I wasn’t dreaming about officership. I was simply trying to rebuild a life that addiction had almost destroyed. I was grateful just to have another chance, another day, another opportunity. Officership wasn’t on my horizon. Looking back now, I smile. Not because one conversation changed my life, but because God refused to let His invitation disappear. I’ve come to believe that God often speaks with remarkable clarity. In Jesus’ parable of the Great Banquet, the invitation was never the problem. The invitation was clear. The tragedy was that people found reasons not to come. When God calls, He has a gracious persistence. He keeps inviting, confirming, nudging and opening doors until the question is no longer, ‘Is God speaking?’ but, ‘Will I say yes?’ So, if you sense that God may be calling you into officership, don’t dismiss it too quickly. Pray. Listen. Seek wise counsel. Test what you’re hearing. But don’t be surprised if the invitation keeps finding you. There are easier ways to make a living, but I can’t think of a better way to spend a life. Officership has taken me into a place where human need and human hope meet. It has taught me that our calling is far bigger than simply meeting immediate needs. It is an invitation to participate in God’s renewing work. Every act of compassion, every proclamation of the gospel, every shared meal, every life restored becomes a small but real foretaste of the new creation Isaiah envisioned, and Revelation promises, where sorrow, injustice and death will one day be no more. Officership is about saying ‘yes’ to Jesus. It’s a specific way of participating with Him as He makes all things new. More information on Salvation Army officership can be found here.

The artwork of retired Major Topher Holland is on display at Norwest Salvos Rouse Hill in Sydney. BY LAUREN MARTIN An ‘art and prayer exhibition’ being held at Norwest Salvos Rouse Hill in north-west Sydney is showcasing the artwork of retired Salvation Army officer Major Topher Holland. Event organiser, retired Major Colin Daines, said he was inspired by attending a Baptist Church art exhibition last year, which enabled him to encounter God in a unique way. As prayer team leader at Norwest Salvos Rouse Hill, he approached leadership with the idea of a prayer weekend with a difference. ‘Behold – an Art and Prayer Exhibition’ opened yesterday (Thursday 30 July) at the corps and will run until tomorrow afternoon (Saturday 1 August). It features the artwork of Topher, with captions and prompts that encourage people to pray and seek what the Lord wants to say to them during their experience. “We are hoping people will take the time to wander, pause and linger. There will be 18 to 20 pieces to have a look at in total, with captions to read, to reflect, parts of Scripture, and some seats to sit in if you want to sit and pray,” said Colin. “For me, it is important because I really felt that this is a way we haven’t explored prayer in our setting before. What does the Holy Spirit say to us through art?” People are invited to sit and prayfully reflect on each piece of art. Topher says it’s the first time his works have been exhibited: “It gives me great joy in working on my artworks called ‘Behold Drawings’. I want people to reflect on the art and see what the drawing’s story is. I believe that ‘eyes that look are common, but eyes that see are rare’. “I hope people have a fresh and renewed encounter with Jesus and they’ll see things.” He said his creative process involves praying throughout his work. One drawing in particular, a painting of Jesus, made him “become more aware that Jesus is consumed with passionate, unconditional love for me. I know the power of eye contact, and I experienced again the depth of Jesus’ love for me. So that’s what happened to me. “I want people to see what’s in the drawing and then reflect on that.” A number of the artworks depict birdlife. Miracle in the midst One separate artwork will feature the story of organiser Major Colin Daines, who, late last year, became seriously ill and underwent delicate brain surgery. His family, corps, and connected Christians prayed for a miracle. He survived. The story of his encounter with God during his recovery has been depicted in an artwork by a family member. “When I was in hospital in my comatose state, I had a spiritual experience through a number of visions,” said Colin. “God said to me, ‘I’ve got more to show you.’ One of the visions was of me floating on my back on these sort of waves, and having a funnel in my chest and all this stuff coming into me. And it was images of prayers and people and God’s blessing. “When I woke up, I could not hold back the tears of heaven. These visions continued through the operation and recovery, assuring me of God’s presence. He had my attention. He orchestrated the physical healing miracle and a new spiritual experience. Heaven came down, and glory filled my soul.” A variety of works are on display at the exhibition. Colin said that since then, his prayer life has deepened. “I think my relationship with God is much less in the head and more in the heart. The spiritual world and how God works in that, while it’s still a mystery, is real, and I experienced it.” He said the ‘Behold’ exhibition this weekend is one way that people can experience God outside of the ‘intellectual’. “I’m hoping that people will look for what God is saying through that art, look at not only just the artist, but the God behind it, and see and hear what the Holy Spirit might be saying to them.” ‘Behold – Art and Prayer Exhibition’ will be held at Norwest Salvos Rouse Hill, 6a Edwards Road, Nelson, from 30 July to 1 August, 10am–5pm Daily. Entry is free

To read Margaret’s Promoted to Glory notice and appointment history, click here

General Lyndon Buckingham launches a new Commission on Membership, Covenant and Belonging. General Lyndon Buckingham has appointed a new Commission on Membership, Covenant and Belonging. This Commission will work to strengthen The Salvation Army into the future. Following fruitful discussions at the International Conference of Leaders in March, the General has appointed a Commission on Membership, Covenant and Belonging (CMCB). The Commission's principal purpose, as outlined in its Terms of Reference, is “to analyse and determine The Salvation Army’s membership structures in alignment with Army doctrine, Orders and Regulations and other official Army publications”. Its work will be guided by a commitment to doctrinal fidelity, covenantal integrity, holiness formation, mission integration, ecclesiological clarity, global unity with contextual wisdom, and youth and intergenerational formation. The Commission aims to strengthen Salvation Army discipleship by fostering clearer belonging, deeper covenant teaching, meaningful service, robust holiness formation, authentic youth engagement and greater ecclesiological clarity across the global movement. Its vision is to help The Salvation Army become more welcoming without becoming less covenantal, more contextual without becoming fragmented, more accessible without becoming vague and more missionally effective without becoming less holy. The General has appointed an 11-member Commission, co-led by Commissioner Geoff Webb and Colonel Dean Pallant, with representatives from across the international Salvation Army. Members are Major Amy Reardon (IHQ), Colonel Bishow Samhika (ICO), Lieutenant Emily Betts (IHQ – Americas), Commissioner Evie Diaz (USA Central), Commissioner Henrik Andersen (IHQ, based in Sweden), Major Juanita Wright (IHQ – Youth), Songster-Leader Karl Westwood (UKI), Lieutenant-Colonel Nigel Cross (SMMT) and Commissioner Yusak Tampai (IHQ – SPEA). The General may also appoint consultant members to provide additional expertise. Corresponding members will be engaged throughout the process, ensuring voices from young people, South Asia, Central and Southern America, and other parts of the international Army are heard. The Commission will work to an ambitious timetable, with territorial leaders consulted at key stages. Its recommendations will be presented to the International Conference of Leaders for consideration in November 2027. Your prayerful support for the Commission will be gratefully appreciated as it undertakes this significant work for the future of The Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army has presented reports to the UN on Haiti, Uganda and Ukraine. BY IHQ COMMUNICATIONS The Salvation Army’s International Social Justice Commission (ISJC) has submitted three reports to the United Nations (UN) highlighting serious human rights concerns affecting vulnerable communities in Haiti, Uganda and Ukraine. ISJC Director Lieut-Colonel Ian Gainsford said, “The Salvation Army remains committed to amplifying the voices of vulnerable communities and promoting human dignity and social justice. The movement is also ready to work alongside governments, civil society organisations and international partners to support the implementation of human rights standards and develop inclusive, sustainable responses for people most in need.” The three reports, submitted ahead of the 54th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review Working Group in January 2027, draw on The Salvation Army’s presence in each country and its engagement with people experiencing poverty, displacement, exploitation and insecurity. They identify significant gaps in the protection of human rights and make recommendations intended to improve access to health care, education, social protection and support services. “The movement is also ready to work alongside governments, civil society organisations and international partners to support the implementation of human rights standards and develop inclusive, sustainable responses for people most in need.” Community perspectives The Universal Periodic Review, commonly known as the UPR, is a process through which the human rights record of every United Nations Member State is reviewed by other governments. Alongside information submitted by governments and United Nations bodies, civil society organisations can provide independent evidence. These submissions help ensure that the experiences of affected communities are considered during international discussions and recommendations. The Salvation Army’s reports focus on different national contexts but share a common concern: people who are already vulnerable are being placed at even greater risk by conflict, insecurity, displacement, poverty and gaps in public services. Haiti: humanitarian and security crisis deepens The report on Haiti describes a rapidly deteriorating humanitarian and security situation characterised by widespread violence, displacement and restricted access to essential services. Nearly 1.5 million people are internally displaced, with women and children among those facing the greatest risks. Communities are experiencing sexual violence, child exploitation, and barriers to health care and education. Armed groups continue to carry out killings, kidnappings and the destruction of property, contributing to widespread fear and a lack of accountability. The Salvation Army calls for stronger protection mechanisms, improved access to health care and education, and greater investment in social protection systems. Uganda: gaps remain in protection from human trafficking The submission on Uganda focuses on human trafficking and the protection of vulnerable people, particularly women and children. While acknowledging progress in the development of legislation and national policies, the report identifies continuing gaps in implementation, the identification of victims and access to appropriate support. The Salvation Army recommends stronger law-enforcement responses, improved services for survivors, and greater coordination between government agencies, civil society organisations and other national stakeholders. Ukraine: displacement restricts access to basic rights The report on Ukraine examines the experiences of internally displaced people, particularly their access to health care, education and social protection. Despite constitutional protections, many displaced households continue to experience severe financial hardship, with 91 per cent living below the poverty line. Older people and people with disabilities face particular difficulties in accessing health care. The ongoing conflict is also having a profound effect on children’s education and well-being, with air raids forcing children to spend thousands of hours in shelters and disrupting their ability to learn safely and consistently. The Salvation Army calls for expanded social protection, improved access to health care and safe, inclusive education for every child. Turning evidence into action Through the three submissions, The Salvation Army is calling on national authorities and the international community to take coordinated action to address the concerns raised and implement recommendations emerging from the UPR process. To download and read the reports, click here. This story originally appeared on The Salvation Army International website here.

The Salvation Army Australia’s three big fundraising appeals – Self Denial, Red Shield and Christmas – all contributed strongly to 2025-26 targets. The Salvation Army Australia has recorded its strongest fundraising result for a financial year since the two former territories became one in 2018. Total fundraising income reached $187.7 million, $27.6 million above target. A highlight was achieving $112.7 million in Above The Line (ATL) fundraising revenue, the first time the Australia Territory has surpassed the $100 million mark. The 2026 Red Shield Appeal made a significant contribution to overall fundraising revenue, with a total of $54.2 million, $13.2 million above target. The Self Denial Appeal also exceeded its target, raising $3.25 million. Although Self Denial was slightly down on last year’s result, the Christmas Day Offering revenue partially offset the difference, increasing by two per cent. And the annual Christmas Appeal brought in $30 million, $1 million above target. “In a year where many Australians continue to face cost-of-living pressures and economic uncertainty, we know these results cannot be taken for granted,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Paul Hateley, Secretary for Communications. “The generosity of our supporters in this environment is truly humbling. Their willingness to continue giving, often sacrificially, speaks to the trust they place in The Salvation Army and the importance of the work we do together. “While these results are the product of hard work, collaboration and dedication across many teams, we also recognise God’s provision and faithfulness throughout the year. “We are grateful for the opportunities, partnerships and support that have enabled us to exceed expectations and extend our mission to more people in need.” Chief Secretary Colonel John Chamness echoed Paul’s words, saying the fundraising results were an “important step towards enabling and supporting our mission and strengthening our long-term financial sustainability”. “I recognise God’s faithfulness in bringing us to this point, and while this moment is an opportunity to give thanks, it is also a foundation for us to build on,” he said. “It strengthens our ability to plan wisely and continue to support our frontline expressions of mission in more sustainable ways.” The two former territories – Australia Eastern and Australia Southern – officially merged on 1 December 2018 to become the Australia Territory. A more detailed breakdown of figures will be published in The Salvation Army Australia Annual Report later this year.

The victim-survivors of slavery can be emotionally and psychologically impacted for the rest of their life due to the experience. (Photo courtesy of Keenan Constance, pexels.com) Content warning: This article discusses themes of modern slavery, including coercion, abuse, and exploitation. Some content may be distressing to readers. Support is available at the end of the article for those affected. BY LERISSE SMITH For many Australians, slavery is seen as a dark stain in the pages of history. But the truth is far more confronting: Slavery never ended. Modern slavery is woven into the fabric of everyday life – hidden in homes, workplaces and communities across the country. Yet there is hope. There is help. There is a lifeline. Thanks to a groundbreaking initiative, The Salvation Army’s national Additional Referral Pathway (ARP) program is now on the frontline of support for those caught up in a nightmare of coercion, deception, and control. Often, it is their first port of call for help.  “Survivors can experience long-term emotional and psychological impacts due to the experience, and recovery might take a lifetime,” said Neenu Thomas, Program Manager of the Additional Referral Pathway program, as she reflected on the impact of slavery.  “It is a huge problem ... There are misconceptions that slavery is done and dusted. It has been eradicated long back, and nobody has been enslaved. Now that’s not true. Modern slavery is very much still prevalent across the world. It may not be in the same way, but it is still happening. And the truth is, anyone can end up in slavery because of a specific situation or circumstances.” Modern slavery is often described as situations where someone controls a person or takes away their freedom and ability to make choices about their life, to gain profit or benefit. For years, the only official support option for victim-survivors in Australia was to go through the Australian Federal Police. But that system didn’t work for everyone, and for some, contact with law enforcement was a terrifying thought. For those trapped in modern slavery – including human trafficking, slavery and slavery-like practices such as debt bondage, deceptive recruitment, servitude, trafficking, forced labour, forced marriage and at-risk of forced marriage – seeking help was often thought to be impossible.   But after two decades of relentless advocacy by non-government organisations for an additional referral pathway to specifically assist victim-survivors, a turning point finally came: the launch of the ARP Program in June 2024, offering a long-overdue alternative.  Now, victim-survivors have choices.  The introduction of the ARP program ensures they can choose to go to police, report the case and get support as one pathway, or choose to come to the ARP program for non-law enforcement support, including referral onto the Support for Trafficked People’s program or Forced Marriage Specialist Support Program for people who have experienced or are experiencing modern slavery. But if the person’s needs are different from what those programs offer, then the case workers connect that person with alternative options. Neenu Thomas is the Program Manager of the Salvos’ Additional Referral Pathway program “The program provides access to people who prefer a non-law enforcement pathway,” Neenu said. “Among those walking the path to recovery, some choose a different way to seek justice. Instead of seeking justice through legal channels, they turn to support, looking for stability, healing, and a fresh start through services designed to meet their immediate needs. It’s a path shaped by personal choice, safety, and the hope of rebuilding life on their own terms. With the introduction of ARP, that option is available for everyone.” And the need is great. Over the first 18 months of operation, ARP has received more than 600 enquiries. So far, 150 individuals have been formally referred for support. Modern slavery can manifest in many ways and involve being forced to work under threat or harsh conditions with little or no pay, having no control over your job or personal life, or being made to repay a never-ending debt. It also includes being tricked into work that is not as described, being moved or recruited through force or deception for exploitation, or being pressured into marriage. At its core, the referral pathway program is about one thing: the individual. “The main aim of our work is that one person,” Neenu explained.   “That one person that we can offer support to. To me, it doesn’t matter the number. We start to build trust with the survivor, make sure that they are in a safe place and that they feel comfortable before they share what they have been going through to see what support might help.” Support is confidential, respectful, and non-judgmental – tailored to each person’s needs.  While many of those who reach out for support are women, the team also work with men and individuals of diverse gender identities. A specific approach is tailored for children and young people needing help. Each person’s experience is unique, and a commitment to meeting people where they are at. If a person’s experiences don’t include clear indicators of modern slavery, there is no wrong door. The program will connect individuals with other relevant services, both within the Salvos and externally. Trauma-informed case managers conduct an assessment using an ARP-designed tool. They can also provide brokerage services for those impacted by slavery, including emergency support. The program is led by The Salvation Army in partnership with legal provider Anti-Slavery Australia and in collaboration with other key specialists, including Australian Muslim Women’s Centre for Human Rights, Project Respect and Scarlet Alliance. Affiliated programs include the Red Cross Support for Trafficked People program and Life Without Barriers Forced Marriage Specialist program. Salvos services such as Doorways, family violence and homelessness support, and counselling referrals can also assist victim-survivors.  So, how do people fall into situations of modern slavery? “At times, it is an employer’s deceptive recruitment – the job that has been promised as a good opportunity was never their intention” Neenu shared. “Or it can occur within an intimate or familial relationship … people who are vulnerable in other areas, like economically, socially isolated or living with a disability. They (the perpetrators) use their vulnerability. Some cases of slavery we have seen stretch back years to when they were children, exploited while growing up in Australia. Others are migrants who recently arrived with a temporary visa, and it may not be valid anymore; they are isolated and vulnerable.”  And the perpetrators? They are not always strangers. They can be family, a friend, community member, or a carer. While many of those who reach out to the ARP program for support are women, the team also work with men and individuals of diverse gender identities too. (Photo courtesy of Dominika Mazur, pexels.com) Unexpected to some, the majority of victim-survivors who have contacted the ARP to date are Australian citizens or permanent residents with diverse backgrounds. Cases come through word of mouth, friends, family, organisations and community outreach – and even Artificial Intelligence (AI). “A young person might describe their situation and need for help in the ChatGPT portal, with ChatGPT suggesting ARP as a program to go to.” The program has a website, an email address and a toll-free number, so people can use any of these to get in touch with ARP, and case managers can meet people in person in some states and territories.  A huge mix of people from all walks of life come through the program via different platforms, with most referred by another service provider like health, housing, FDSV or legal – but a significant portion of those the program supports have found their way to ARP on their own, a testament to growing awareness and trust in its services. But there is always one harsh reality: Modern slavery leaves deep, lasting scars that take time to recover from. “It is control, it is deception,” Neenu explained. “This is about someone trying to control another person’s life, which is how the abuse continues. It takes a huge emotional toll and causes deep trauma for those experiencing it. We’ve seen people facing complex mental health challenges because of these experiences. For many, ARP may be the only source of support available, and that can make a real difference with specialist case managers supporting survivors with a person-centred approach.”  Slavery doesn’t always mean locked doors.  The control is often psychological, the manipulation is deep, and the emotional impact is profound. Victim-survivors can face high and complex levels of trauma, anxiety, and shattered trust – especially after being betrayed by someone close. Healing isn’t a straight line, and the trauma doesn’t just disappear. “From a perspective of acute trauma, a complex trauma … it never goes away,” she added. “It is learning to manage and live with it. It’s like a new reality for many of the survivors, so providing that support to recovery becomes crucial, and it is also a collective responsibility as a community.  “Anyone can live a purposeful life if they are free from exploitation and abuse.” When escape becomes urgent, the ARP team acts fast. From providing phones to coordinating accommodation and transport, they help victims find safety – even if they are still trapped behind four walls. “We often hear from people saying, ‘I have nowhere else to go, and I’m being exploited.’ In those moments, our focus is on helping them take back control, working together to plan a safe exit and provide the support they need. The need for safe housing and refuge is huge.” Looking to the future, standing up for what is right is all-important. “The community needs to come together to fight against modern slavery,” Neenu said. “It needs to be the whole community coming together and saying that this is it, we are going to stand up and we are going to stand against modern slavery existing; we will not accept the abuse of power and use of exploitation in relationships, in places of work … We also need to have a better system with long-term support for survivors and where the perpetrators of slavery are held to account.”  Hope is also a key element in the fight against modern slavery. “There is hope,” Neenu said. “Because even after experiencing this exploitation, survivors go on to move forward in their lives. People we were able to connect with otherwise would not have had the help they needed.” And she counts herself fortunate to be part of a dedicated team, adding it was “amazing” the ARP program was able to support victim survivors. “Everyone deserves the freedom to live a meaningful, purposeful life that is free from the constraints of modern slavery,” she added. “We are able to open up that pathway so that they have the opportunity to move forward in life.” The Additional Pathway Referral program’s website and contact details: https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/additional-referral-pathway/ funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services.

Tinashe’s faith journey began in Zimbabwe, where he first connected with The Salvation Army. Over time, his relationship with God drifted, but his faith was rekindled after moving to Australia to study. Looking for a church community, he attended Brisbane City Temple and was warmly welcomed from his very first service. Since then, Tinashe has become an active member of the corps, even learning to play a brass instrument as part of the main band. One of the most significant milestones in his journey was becoming a soldier, a commitment he says strengthened his sense of belonging.

(From left) Wellness Partners Foundation founder Michael Bonner, the new pharmacist Eakly Bun and Melbourne Project 614 Team Leader Major Brendan Nottle. BY LERISSE SMITH On any given day at The Salvation Army’s Melbourne Project 614, visitors often arrive carrying more than just backpacks and other belongings – they’re navigating complex physical and mental health challenges, including the often-overlooked daily challenge of managing their medications. But help is now at hand. Eakly Bun is the first pharmacist to join the Project 614 team through a partnership with the Wellness Partners Foundation. Eakly will provide holistic, wrap-around support to vulnerable Melburnians two days a week. “We are thrilled to welcome Eakly and really excited about the opportunity to have a pharmacist based on site,” says Major Brendan Nottle, Project 614 Team Leader. “The pharmacist will be available to provide a whole range of health support to people. He will work very closely with the GPs, addiction specialists and mental health clinicians who are based here. “It’s one of the missing pieces of the puzzle for us. So, to have the pharmacist here engaging with people in the café, doing medicine reviews for people and for those that receive prescription medication and feel unwell ... for them to be able to talk about that with someone who is an expert in that field is really important. We want the pharmacist to build relationships with people because that’s what we’re about.” The relational focus lies at the heart of the model. It is hoped that by building those relationships, people will feel comfortable speaking with the pharmacist about health concerns they might otherwise feel embarrassed to raise. “Hopefully, they can get some resolution around those issues, and working with the team from the Wellness Partners Foundation is really exciting because they’re working hard towards developing a pharmacy embedded here in our Cafe 614 at Bourke Street,” he added. “The partnership would not have happened without the passion of Michael Bonner, founder of the Wellness Partners Foundation.” Michael Bonner, founder of Wellness Partners Foundation and a Clinical Pharmacist, says the exciting initiative at Project 614 reflects a simple belief: pharmacists can play a much bigger role in supporting vulnerable Australians. He believes the greatest impact of the new pharmacist appointment is filling a major gap in medical care and medication management – an often-overlooked challenge, particularly as homelessness continues to rise. “In the last couple of years, we’ve founded the Wellness Partners Foundation,” he says. “And part of our mission and our focus is supporting or addressing the disparities of health and wellness that vulnerable Australians experience.” The greatest impact of the new pharmacist appointment is filling a major gap in medical care and medication management - an often-overlooked challenge, particularly as homelessness continues to rise, says Wellness Partners Foundation founder and Clinical Pharmacist, Michael Bonner. Kampus – pexels.com As the foundation evolved, homelessness became a clear priority. “People experiencing homelessness have been a key focus where we can see pharmacists stepping out from behind the counter, providing a lot of support and assistance, particularly with pharmacists having that expertise,” reflects Michael. “Not just in medication and health expertise but also being very non-judgmental in how we approach things.” That philosophy shapes the Project 614 model. “It’s a safe space,” he explains. “Having a pharmacist embedded there is a natural progression from what we see our support is offering.” Practical experience As a registered pharmacist, Eakly brings additional qualifications as a credentialed clinical pharmacist, including training in medication management reviews and on-site pharmacy in aged care, preparing him for trauma-informed and culturally safe medication management in non-traditional healthcare settings. He also brings practical experience working with Salvos clients in Dandenong, where he worked as a community pharmacist supporting at-risk communities. The initial brief for his role at Project 614 is to build rapport and establish relationships with visitors who are often disconnected from health services and healthcare providers. Eakly began his role a few weeks ago and says he’s really enjoying his work at Project 614. Eakly Bun says he is really enjoying the working environment at Melbourne Project 614. “The part I enjoy most is the small chats with visitors. Listening to and understanding each person’s story and their own perspective on health is integral to supporting them holistically,” he says. “I also love working within such a strong multidisciplinary team ... what makes it special is that everyone works together with genuine compassion and respect, all lending a hand to those in need.” So, how did the partnership with the Salvos begin? It was a relationship that had been years in the making. Michael’s pathway into Project 614 grew organically through relationships in the health and social services sectors. His 20 years of aged care work eventually led to requests to extend his team’s expertise to other underserved communities, including those affected by addiction. He was soon introduced to Dr Paul McCartney and Dr Dean Membrey, who work with Project 614’s Co-Health team, and to Brendan, leading to broader discussions with the Salvos at several sites across Australia. Michael has been a regular presence at Project 614 over the past year, helping to shape a sustainable model of care that complements existing services. “The big thing for us is that some of the visitors to 614 often have had adverse experiences with the health system,” he says. “The last thing we want to do is plug in a service and then pull it away.” Managing medication safely One of the main challenges for 614 visitors is access. Many do not have Medicare or concession cards, limiting their access to medication. “The other barrier we’re seeing significantly, which we all take for granted, is that someone living on the streets or rough sleeping has a lot of trouble managing their medications,” says Michael. “They can get lost or stolen. Storage is very hard when you’ve got one or two months’ supply. It’s very difficult.” From there, something as basic as medication compliance becomes complex, with safe storage, correct timing, and consistency becoming difficult in unstable environments. These realities sit at the centre of Eakly’s future role – supporting people to manage their medication safely day-to-day. Mental health is another key area where pharmacists can provide early, non-judgmental conversations and help connect people with appropriate care.

(From left) Curran Public School Principal Nicole Wade, Salvation Army volunteer Sarah Camilleri, Curran the Koala, Mayor of Campbelltown Darcy Lound, Shieldy, and The Salvation Army’s Marika McCue. BY LAUREN MARTIN Macquarie Fields Salvos volunteer Sarah Camilleri distinctly remembers the moment when God revealed to her the meaning of being a ‘fisher of men’. She was down at a local river, taking her daughter for a swim. Her daughter was splashing around loudly, and she felt God asking her to notice the fish. She looked, and all the fish were swimming away from her daughter. Then Sarah sensed God urging her to put her hand in the water, be still and wait. Patiently and obediently, she did so. Within a few minutes, fish were swimming towards her outstretched hand. “It was about being still and waiting,” she said. “God said to me, ‘That’s how you fish for men’; I just need to ‘be,’ and God brings people to me. That’s the approach I’ve taken with everything, and that’s how doors are opening.” Sarah Camilleri is seeing God at work through her volunteering at The Salvation Army Macquarie Fields in south-west Sydney. With that ethos in mind, Sarah, who serves as the volunteer Prayer Team Leader and Volunteer Events Team Leader at Macquarie Fields Salvos in south-west Sydney, organised this year’s Red Day events for the Red Shield Appeal and watched and waited to see what God would do. The results have exceeded expectations in a way only God can orchestrate. One school she approached got its Student Representative Council (SRC) on board, and the resulting Red Day mufti fundraiser “was the most money they had ever raised on a Mufti Day,” said Sarah. The connection fostered relationships, and afterwards, Sarah and Macquarie Fields Salvos’ youth worker, Rachel Gorringe, met with representatives of the school to discuss how they could partner in the future. “We just asked them, ‘How do you think we can partner and what could we do to support you?’” she said. The school suggested starting a walking group for mothers and carers and also expressed a dream of starting a cooking class where the meal could be taken home to feed a family. Sarah and Macquarie Fields Salvos staff were excited to partner and began praying about where to find the resources to support, particularly for the cooking classes. God was already at work. Another Red Day, held at a local pre-school, also led to deeper relationships. When Sarah connected with the staff afterwards, they expressed a desire to assist the Salvos further throughout the year. Sarah shared with them the school’s idea for a walking group for mums and the dream of starting a cooking class. The pre-school said they would be happy to support. “God is already up to stuff,” said Sarah. “We could have come [to the school] with our own plans, but that’s like making a horse go in a direction it doesn’t want to go. It’s just walking beside people in what God is already doing. When we do that, things flow, and when we move in that, we move towards unity, and that’s what God wants for his Kingdom.” Macquarie Fields Corps Officer Major Darren Kingston with volunteer Sarah Camilleri. The Walking Group is now a joint venture between Macquarie Fields Salvos, the school and pre-school, with parents and carers to be invited from each space. It’s expected to start next term. “The end point for the walk will be The Salvation Army and a coffee,” said Sarah, who is excited that the group will lead to further relationships being built. She’s also working with her local K-Mart, the pre-school and other supporters to gather cooking supplies for the school’s cooking class. Rachel (youth worker) plans to partner in the activity and be a presence at the classes, making connections. Sarah is excited to see what God is doing in her local area. She is reminded of a prophetic word God spoke over her at the end of 2024, saying that she would somehow be used for ministry in Macquarie Fields. “I always knew God had me in this area for a reason,” she said. And, in obedience, Sarah stepped out into what God has called her to.

The Salvation Army’s ARP program assists victim-survivors of modern slavery to access support. Stock image. BY LAUREN MARTIN It’s been two years since The Salvation Army, in partnership with key sector organisations, launched the Additional Referral Pathway (ARP) to help victim-survivors of modern slavery access support. Since it began, the national hotline has taken calls from more than 900 people: - 242 people identified as experiencing modern slavery. - 215 (88%) were referred to the Support for Trafficked People Program and/or the Forced Marriage Specialist Support Program*. Many of those who contacted the service received assistance with safety planning, crisis intervention and accommodation coordination to help them leave unsafe situations. Due to the level of demand, service expanded to include a staff member in each state of Australia, except Tasmania and the ACT. “It’s been extremely helpful to have face-to-face support for people,” said ARP Program Manager, Neenu Thomas. “And we have been able to generate a lot more awareness within the state and the territories as well, because of that.” In fact, awareness-raising has been identified as one of the service’s major success stories, with Neenu explaining that when they started, awareness of modern slavery in Australia was limited to specific sectors of the community, such as Family Domestic Violence (FDV) workers. “Now, we are beginning to see the immigration sector, health and community sector more and more aware about modern slavery,” said Neenu. This is important because, with awareness, workers and community members can look for the ‘red flags’ that might indicate that a person may be affected by modern slavery, which can take many forms. “We have all different kinds of issues,” said Neenu. “We have seen servitude, forced marriage, forced labour, trafficking, deceptive recruitment, debt bondage. Also ‘exit trafficking’ when a person has been forced, threatened or tricked into travel out of Australia, usually perpetrated by an abusive spouse or family member, often with their passport or travel documents taken and they may be trapped overseas.” Neenu Thomas is the Program Manager of the Salvos’ Additional Referral Pathway program. A common misconception is that modern slavery and human trafficking only involve people from overseas, but Neenu says ARP statistics from the past two years show that nearly half of those seeking assistance are Australian citizens or permanent residents. She says more public awareness is needed to identify victim-survivors, as well as steps to close loopholes that prevent victim-survivors from accessing the assistance they need through the specialist support program, such as when insecure visa status blocks their access. “We have found that 12 per cent of modern slavery cases that we have seen are victim-survivors who are unable, for some reason, to access the assistance they need through those specialist programs,” said Neenu. Dedicated accommodation services for victim-survivors are also a major priority for the ARP team. Currently, The Salvation Army operates the only modern slavery safe house in Australia. READ MORE: Modern slavery still a scourge on society today “It’s not enough,” said Neenu. “We see that as a gap – many of victim-survivors can’t access refuge accommodation support because it is designated for people who have experienced Family and Domestic Violence. But, often, with modern slavery, there is no intimate partner involved, so they can’t get the accommodation support.” On 30 July, World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, The Salvation Army is holding a special chapel event, in person in Sydney and Melbourne and online, for personnel to come together to stand against trafficking and slavery. This year’s theme is ‘Trapped Behind the Scam’ and focuses on the rise in people being trafficked for forced criminality. With The Salvation Army among many organisations working in Australia to fight modern slavery*, there’s a lot to celebrate after two years of the Additional Referral Pathway support, but much more work to be done. The Additional Referral Pathway is a program funded by the Department of Social Services. The Additional Pathway Referral program’s website and contact details: https://www.salvationarmy.org.au/additional-referral-pathway/ *Two other specialist support services – funded by the Department of Social Services for people who have experienced modern slavery – are the Support for traffic people program (STPP) and Forced Marriage Specialist Support Programs.

Each week through 2026, Salvationists around the world are uniting in prayer for the same territory or region of The Salvation Army. Prayer requests are shared by the territory/region to help us pray with precision and power for one another. This week (27 July- 2 August) we pray for The Salvation Army in the Congo (Brazzaville) Territory. This territory has 525 officers (397 active, 128 retired); 29 Aux-Captains; 14 envoys; 45 cadets; 121 corps; 119 outposts; 25,289 senior soldiers; 5663 adherents; 13,363 junior soldiers; 182 employees Colonels Colonel Jean Laurore and Elianise Clenat lead the territory. The work of the Congo (Brazzaville) Territory includes: · Health clinics · Education Officers and leaders of the Congo (Brazzaville) Territory. Praise points: We praise the Lord for the successful completion of the activities of the first and second quarters of 2026: 21 days of prayer in February and Bible Sunday in April. Prayer requests: Please pray for: · The successful offering of territorial self-denial, asking God to bless it and make it fruitful. · The removal of the special measures imposed on the territory since August 2019, so that it may be fully restored and able to move forward in progress and fulfil its mission. · The Senior Timbrelists Camp, which will be held in the Pointe-Noire Division from 24-30 August 2026, that all participants may return home blessed and spiritually strengthened. · The youth activity entitled ‘Sport Brazza’, which will be held in Pool 3 Division and in Brazzaville for the three Brazzaville Divisions from 20-24 July 2026. May this event be a great success and provide opportunities for fellowship, spiritual growth and outreach among young people. · The Youth Camp that will be held from 7-9 August 2026 in Dolisie, bringing together young people and children from the Niari Division, the Bouenza and Kouilou Districts, and the Mossendjo Section. May the camp be a time of spiritual growth, fellowship, and blessing for all participants. · The re-opening of the officers’ training centre in October 2026, and for the accepted candidates as they prepare for their training. May the Lord grant them success in their preparation. · The 90th anniversary of the territory, which will be celebrated in Brazzaville, and for the visit of General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham from 22-26 August 2027. May this visit bring abundant blessings to God's people. · The International Youth Congress in Indonesia (15–20 July 2027). Pray for our delegates as they prepare to attend the congress, particularly in obtaining their travel documents. May the Lord guide them through every step of the process and grant them success in all their preparations. Our Medical Service: · For the reopening of the YANGUI Health Centre, which has remained closed for many years following the social unrest of 2018. May the Lord make a way for its restoration and effective service to the community. · For the Mobile Clinic to be held in the Nkayi District during the first week of July, that it may be successful and bring quality healthcare services to the community. · For the successful reorganisation of the territory's remaining clinics, that they may effectively support the social mission of the territory and provide quality services to the communities they serve. To find out more about the Congo (Brazzaville) Territory, click here. To find out more about The Salvation Army’s prayer focus, and to download the 2026 prayer schedule, click here. To download the 2026 prayer schedule, click here.