Major Gill Waugh has certainly been tried and tested but she’s never questioned God’s love for her.
16 Sanctuary in Whangārei
Sanctuary Café is celebrating its first birthday as it serves the community in and around Whangārei Corps and Community Ministries.
18 God’s Guidance and Grace
David and Michelle Thompson from Christchurch City Corps relied on God throughout their migration journey from Chennai to Christchurch.
20 From Hurt to Hope
Michael and Rewi bravely share their journeys from darkness to walking out into the light.
26 I Have All I Need
Jules Badger’s two-part series on Psalm 23.
28 Lives Changed at BMAC
Women from Waitākere Central Corps and Community Ministries take a trip to Blue Mountain Adventure Centre (BMAC).
SALT Magazine
The Salvation Army New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory
Territorial Commander
Commissioner Janine Donaldson
General Lyndon Buckingham
Founders Catherine and William Booth
Editor Vivienne Hill
Graphic design
Sam Coates, Nicole Gesmundo, Lauren Millington
Staff writers
Jules Badger, Kelly Cooper, Captain Rachel Montgomery
Proof reading Colleen Marshall, Major Glenys Fairhurst
Connect with us saltmagazine.org.nz SaltMagazineNZ @SaltMagazineNZ salvationarmynzfts Territorial Headquarters, 204 Cuba Street, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141 p: (04) 384 5649
All Bible references from the Holy Bible, New International Version, unless otherwise stated.
Views and opinions expressed do not necessarily represent those of The Salvation Army.
Articles are copyrighted to The Salvation Army, except where indicated, and may be reprinted only with permission.
Life in a Community of Faith
undamental to the shaping of my faith over the years has been quality time spent away from my responsibilities, with other women who love Jesus. These precious days of sharing life outside of the normal routine in a camp-like environment—prioritising teaching, prayer, ministry and relationships—have been key markers in my spiritual formation.
In this edition of SALT, on page 28, Jules Badger reports on the courageous women of Waitākere Central Corps and Community Ministries, who not only spent three days away together at The Salvation Army Blue Mountain Adventure Centre, but pushed their boundaries by white-water rafting, climbing high ropes and a rock-wall, and jumping off cliffs! Camp leader Lt-Colonel Sheryl Jarvis said the women formed relationships with each other that continued once they were back from camp ‘…they built relationships and now feel a sense of connection with and care for each other’.
The bonds formed at such getaways start early for young people at The Salvation Army, with Easter camps (report back on Easter camps in the next edition) and children’s days out (see page 12). For many children, away days and camps are the first time they are challenged to
look at their personal beliefs outside of their families and church settings. The environment of fun, prayer, reflection and teaching has been pivotal for many children and will create memories and relationships that will sustain them into their adult years.
Life changes are also happening in other communal settings, in places like Addington Supportive Accommodation and Bridge Te Arawhata in Otautahi Christchurch. On page 20, I encourage you to read the impact these places of recovery have had on the lives of Rewi and Michael, who bravely share their stories of addiction and abuse with SALT writer Kelly Cooper.
In all of these stories are key themes of prioritising self-care, sharing life in a faith community, seeking and finding support and, above all else, seeking Jesus Christ and the hope only he can give.
Vivienne Hill Editor
You were cleansed from your sins when you obeyed the truth, so now you must show sincere love to each other as brothers and sisters. Love each other deeply with all your heart. (1 PETER 1:22, NLT)
WORD OF THE MONTH
Houhia te rongo
(te reo Māori, verb) Reconcile.
SALVATION ARMY PRAYER
Community Ministries centres throughout the territory; Counselling Services in Wellington; Court Services Fiji; Creative Ministries; Cuba Street (corps); Dannevirke Corps; the Data Analysis and Support team; Divisional Headquarters in Fiji; Russia Territory; Spain and Portugal Territory; and Sweden and Latvia Territory.
Art of the Month
by Josiah Serevi
Do you have a photo you’re keen to have featured in SALT? Send it to us at salt@salvationarmy.org.nz
MOTHER’S DAY QUIZ
1 What is the mother of invention?
2 Which Taylor Swift song was written as a tribute to her mother?
3 ‘Mother is not quite herself today’ is a line from which movie?
4 Who is Homer Simpson’s estranged mother?
5 What is the only country in the world to offer a full year of paid leave to both new mothers and fathers? Answers page 32
INTERNATIONAL PRAYER
• Syria—Since the civil war began in Syria in 2011, more than 750,000 Christians have been driven out of the country as conflict between political factions continues. Caught in the crossfire, many Christians are subjected to attack and abuse, including loss of jobs, homes and family. Many Muslims have converted to Christianity and remain in Syria to support displaced people and serve both Christians and Muslims with compassion during the ongoing turbulence. While Muslim communities can be hostile to Christians, severe persecution usually comes from the government and extremist groups, which have been unchecked in their oppression and persecution of Christians and other minorities, particularly at this time.
• Myanmar and Thailand—A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake rocked most of Southeast Asia on Friday 4 April. The death toll continues to rise, with more than 2065 bodies pulled from collapsed buildings in Myanmar and Thailand. Upward of 3900 people are injured, with hundreds reported missing. The Salvation Army has personnel on the ground involved in providing support to survivors. There has been a Salvation Army presence in Myanmar since 1915, and in 2023 Thailand became the 134th country in which The Salvation Army is officially at work.
Ways to give
You can give to our appeal by donating through our website using the ‘Donate’ button on the masthead, or by credit card by calling 0800 53 00 00 (please tell the operator you are donating to the Myanmar and Thailand Appeal), or you can use internet banking by going to salvationarmy.org.nz/donatebybank . Please include ‘ Myanmar and Thailand ’ as a reference.
Chomp-a-licious Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Prep time 10 mins, cooking time 10–15 minutes or until golden.
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup of condensed milk
• 225 grams of butter
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 2 cups of flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Chocolate chips (heaps!)
Equipment
• Baking paper
• Large tray Method
Pre-heat the oven to 180°C.
Soften the butter in the microwave or double boiler.
Combine the soft butter and sugar, then add the condensed milk and stir until smooth.
Add flour and baking powder to the wet mixture and stir until combined. The cookie dough should come away easily from the edges of the bowl.
Add as many chocolate chips as you like!
Roll dough into balls and squish with a fork into cookie shapes.
Place on a tray lined with baking paper.
Bake at 180°C for 12–15 minutes or lightly golden.
Cool on a wire rack.
Best served with a nice cup of tea to dunk the cookies in!
Hint : Chocolate chips can be substituted for almonds, peanuts or raisins. White chocolate drops and cranberries make for the perfect Christmas biscuit!
Source: Jules Badger and Kelly Bates
INTRIGUING INDEX
Basic Instinct
1 Motherly Instincts
The female octopus will lay around 200,000 eggs and will do anything to protect them. Some octopi mothers go so far as to ingest one of their eight arms rather than leave the eggs unprotected to find food for themselves. Once the eggs hatch, the baby octopi float around in blooms of plankton.
2 Golden Child
The female African black eagle lays two eggs, but after they hatch, the mother feeds only one of the chicks. The other chick is usually pecked to death by its sibling, with the mother eagle making no attempt to save it.
3 Clingy Much?
Orangutan mums carry their babies from the day they are born and will nurse them for six to seven years—the longest mother–child dependence of any animal on the planet.
4 Koala Cuisine
At birth, koala babies don’t yet possess the intestinal bacteria that detoxifies the highly poisonous eucalyptus leaves which are a koala’s main source of food. A koala mum will feed her own faeces to her baby.
5 Baby Weight
The polar bear mum doubles her weight during pregnancy to support her baby’s growth. If she’s short on food and can’t put on at least 200 pounds, her body will simply reabsorb the foetus.
There’s no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one.
Prayer Focus: Climate Change and Gender Equity
While climate change impacts everyone, it is already affecting the lives of women disproportionately. Here are three ways climate change will continue to negatively impact women and girls.
Water fetching: Globally, a quarter of households do not have easy access to safe drinking water. Predominantly it is girls and women who are assigned the burden of travelling on foot to fetch water, which takes girls out of school and negatively impacts their physical health. When climate change causes extreme weather conditions, such as drought, they must travel even greater distances to find safe water.
Child marriage: Globally, one in every five girls is married before the age of 18, affecting their physical health (due to pregnancy risks in low- and middle-income countries), mental health (due to loss of their social network) and educational opportunities. Climate change can leave families forced to marry-off their daughters and receive a bride price for economic survival. In times of drought, the number of child brides increases.
Domestic violence: In India, a direct correlation is seen between violence towards women and decreased rainfall. A 32 percent increase in domestic violence, a 15 percent rise in reported crimes against women and a 37 percent jump in dowry killings were reported after a one-metre deficit in annual rainfall. Economic pressure on a husband’s family can cause them to ask for additional dowry payments. Violence towards the wife can occur to ensure these payments are made. In severe cases, the wife is murdered so that the husband can remarry and receive another dowry.
Prayer for global awareness and action: Lord, we pray for increased global awareness of the intersection between climate change and gender equity. May world leaders, organisations and individuals work together to create policies and initiatives that support and protect vulnerable populations.
Prayer for empowerment: Lord, empower women and girls to be leaders in their communities, advocating for sustainable practices and environmental justice. May their voices be heard and valued in all responses to climate change.
Prayer for resilience and strength: Lord, grant resilience and strength to women and girls facing the challenges brought by climate change. Help them to overcome barriers and thrive despite the difficulties they encounter.
Leave your big boots at the door –Pākehā confronting racism against Māori
History and Culture | Edited by Lorraine McLeod | Potton & Burton | Available at Whitcoulls and at pottonandburton.co.nz
This book is a powerful and thoughtprovoking read, featuring the stories of 17 Pākehā women and men who share their involvement in Aotearoa’s anti-racist movement. The authors come from a range of diverse backgrounds including police, education, health, psychology, social services, corrections and business. They each highlight the long-overdue need for Māori rangatiratanga (chieftainship, self-determination), and how reciprocal, respectful relationships between Māori and Pākehā must be fostered to ensure an equitable society we can all be proud of. This book includes a chapter written by Lt-Colonel Ian Hutson, where he shares his understandings of Te Tiriti as a covenant. (Reviewed by Kelly Cooper)
Say Yes: Discover the Surprising Life Beyond the Death of a Dream
Spirituality | Scott Erickson | Zondervan
Scott Erickson wanted to talk about suicide in church. One of the results of that compulsion is this important and very accessible book. To be blunt, Scott had me with his opening line: ‘Life is a mixture of sacred moments while letting out a little fart at the same time’. It begins real and it stays real! Say Yes is a book that offers the antidote to ‘the voice of giving up’ that haunts all of us at some time or other in our lives. Through brilliant stories and stunning art, Say Yes inspires wonder and hope. It somehow convinces us that we really are part of something and our contribution matters. It’s dark and funny and deep and holy and beautiful. I loved it! (Reviewed by Jules Badger)
Bonhoeffer
Drama/historical | Written and directed by Todd Komarnicki | M (violence, offensive language)
Encapsulating the life of famous German theologian and pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer within two hours is an ambitious undertaking, and Bonhoeffer delivers mixed results. It succeeds narratively, telling an engaging story of a church minister spurred by his faith to oppose the Nazi regime. Viewers looking for an overview of the man’s life will find this an informative and impassioned watch. Where it falls short is in giving a satisfying treatment of why this faith was important to the man in the first place. For a viewer hoping for insight into the inner workings of a brilliant theological mind, this film may fall flat. (Reviewed by Sam Coates)
What’s On?
Red Shield Street
Appeal
5–11 May
Mother’s Day
11 May
Candidates Sunday
18 May
Check out our full event calendar at salvationarmy.org.nz/ events
Do You Know These People?
If you recognise the people in this photo, we’d love to hear from you. Email: archives@ salvationarmy.org.nz
More Than Enough Love
Major Gill Waugh is not the sort of woman you define by the roles she fills or the hats she wears. Gill is someone defined by the indiscriminate love she carries for others. A woman of deep faith, Gill has certainly been tried and tested but she’s never questioned God’s love for her. As a mum and a nana, Gill testifies that as God expands her world in unexpected ways, there’s always more than enough love to go around.
WORDS Jules Badger
t’s not the first time Gill Waugh’s been asked to describe motherhood, and so she’s not only quick with her response, but also quick to laugh as she shares it.
‘Motherhood is tiring, frustrating and overwhelming! But it forever remains a precious gift,’ she says. ‘And oh, how my two adult sons love to play on that, reminding me constantly that they are my “precious gifts”!’
The two sons she is referring to are Ethan (31) and Caleb (29), who together run their own mechanical business. And they really are precious gifts because fertility issues meant there was only a 10 percent chance of Gill ever being able to conceive.
‘I can still picture the day I found out I was pregnant with Ethan. I hadn’t told my husband, Neil, and so there was this moment—just me and God—of deep awe. And then we had Caleb as well, and I am just so very grateful to God every day for my boys,’ says Gill.
Mantel of love
Ethan is married to Suzie, and both have children from previous relationships. Ethan has a son called Josias (10), and Suzie has a daughter called Bella (13).
‘They are a lovely blended family,’ says Gill, ‘and I just love them to bits.’
Joined by Caleb who is back home awaiting surgery for a work injury, all six currently live at Gill’s place, and for good reason. When her beloved husband, Major Neil Waugh, died from cancer on 29 August 2015, their lives changed forever.
A year away from retirement age, Gills says, ‘I didn’t envisage Neil not being here for this stage of life. Neil and I would have no doubt been plodding along at home together on our own. But I love having everyone at home. I especially love having the grandkids around because they bring this whole other layer to giving and receiving love! The house is busy and it’s full on, but I’d probably eat Weet-Bix for dinner every night if they weren’t here to cook for,’ she says with a laugh.
Gill has never forgotten the day Neil was first diagnosed with cancer. Despite their shock and distress, God was close.
‘We sat in the car together and such an amazing peace came over us—God’s peace. It’s never left me, even now. Some days I just can’t explain it. But in the middle of everything that has happened, God’s peace remains and it’s such a beautiful gift and I am so grateful to God.’
Without a doubt, it’s Gill’s unshakeable faith in God that keeps her going and orientates her life.
‘I carry the spiritual mantle for our family now. Whether that’s bringing a word in season, covering everyone in prayer, or living out my faith day to day. Neil would have shouldered more of that responsibility, but now it’s just me, and I take that very seriously.’
Gill recalls going home after Neil’s funeral and sitting in her prayer chair in her bedroom and leaning into God. ‘I remember sobbing my heart out and saying, “Okay, God, we can do this”. I knew I had to keep going to keep my family on track. Sometimes life forces you, if you like, to keep that daily connection with God strong. I had to keep my eyes on Jesus for all our sakes.’
Nothing is wasted
Fifteen months after Neil’s death, Caleb was diagnosed with cancer—he was just 20 at the time. It was a huge shock for the family, but Caleb pulled through and is cancer free to this day. But following Neil’s death, Ethan struggled and sought solace in drugs and alcohol. When Caleb was diagnosed, Ethan’s substance abuse escalated, until one night he was involved in an aggravated robbery. He was later convicted and imprisoned.
‘I remember saying to God,“How much more do you think I can take?” It was the closest I ever got to asking
‘I carry the spiritual mantle for our family now. Whether that’s bringing a word in season, covering everyone in prayer, or living out my faith day to day.’
the why question. I stayed away from that because I knew it was a bad place to go. I still asked, “How much more, Lord?” but soon that became a prayer. “What are you going to do with all of this, Lord—what are you going to use?”’
Throughout Neil’s illness, the couple established a daily practice of gratitude and thanksgiving.
‘To this day it’s one of the most important rhythms for me in life,’ explains Gill. ‘Even in the middle of all the cancer crap, or the hard days after Neil died and then Caleb’s cancer ordeal, that rhythm of gratitude and thankfulness cemented me back to God. I remember
the day of Ethan’s sentencing, just sitting in God’s presence sobbing away and saying, “You have proven yourself to me so many times—you’re my rock and my hiding place”. That’s what’s kept me going. My faith and trust in God.’
Gill prayed for three things that day: first, that God would keep Ethan safe in prison; second, that God would open his spiritual eyes and give him a road to
‘Sitting in the waiting room supporting other women became something I was so grateful for. You go through so much pain, but God will take that experience and use it for good.’
Damascus experience (Acts 9); and finally, that Ethan would be home in time to take his son Josias to school on his first day.
‘God answered every one of those prayers,’ testifies Gill. ‘I live on the answers to those prayers! They are like stepping-stones in my spiritual journey.’
God also answered Gill’s ‘what are you going to use, Lord?’ prayer.
‘Nothing is wasted. Who would’ve thought that I would end up with a little prison ministry! During those two years in the visitors’ waiting room, I could easily spot the newbies, and was able to go show them what to do. Sitting in the waiting room supporting other women became something I was so grateful for. You go through so much pain, but God will take that experience and use it for good.’
Mum’s the word
The child of officers herself, Gill speaks fondly of her own mum who went to be with Jesus 20 years ago.
‘I’ve never forgotten the quiet strength and deep trust in God she carried,’ says Gill. ‘Mum had the ability to make a lovely home wherever we were living and to make us feel safe. But it was the strength of her faith that had the most impact on me. I thought a lot about her when Neil was diagnosed. It’s her example I try to live by.’
One of Gill’s greatest joys is seeing her boys grow up to become good men, with Ethan recently being enrolled
From top: Major Gill Waugh; Gill with grandchildren, Bella and Josias.
as a senior soldier of Christchurch City Corps and involved in youth ministry.
‘For all the challenges and mistakes, they’ve both turned out pretty good! They are both so caring and I see Neil in them. Caleb has his business head and they both have his good work ethic. I see Neil in Josias as well and that just warms my heart.’
Josias’s delivery was a waterbirth, and Gill was privileged to be there. ‘I caught him in my arms because he basically shot out into the water and landed right in front of me!’
Ethan went to prison when Josias was two, and while Gill never envisaged raising a toddler in her 50s, she looks back and sees God at work.
‘It was a big responsibility for me and Caleb—we did it together. But I think that journey continued to strengthen my faith and deepen it even more. Resilient is a word I use to describe myself now. God has grown that in me—it’s his work.’
Grafted in
Gill’s not just nana to Josias and Bella, and mum to her two sons and daughter-in-law Suzie, but there are also others who have been grafted into the family, like Shannon. During Gill and Neil’s appointment to Waitākere Central Corps and Community Ministries in Auckland, Shannon would come for lunch after church and spend hours chatting with Neil as they worked together on his model railway. A deep connection with the whole family resulted, and Gill and Neil ended up fostering Shannon’s niece Ania for two years. So, Gill is now also nana to Shannon and her husband Chris’s children, Asher and Hadassah, and also great-nana to Ania’s daughter, Elonka.
Gill says her image of God has enlarged over the years because of the love she has experienced in critical times during her life, and the people God has brought into her life during their times of trial and struggle.
‘I’ve never had any trouble drawing people in, and I think that’s what it’s about for me. God keeps increasing my world—adding to the family—and there’s no end to the love you can give. I love inviting people in to be part
‘God keeps increasing my world—adding to the family— and there’s no end to the love you can give.’
of that. How blessed am I because of the people I have in my life and who I get to love.’
Gill has some wisdom to offer younger mums: ‘Believe in yourself, look after yourself and do whatever you have to, to keep your own tank filled. That last one is about emotional strength and wellness. The more you do that, the more you have to give out to your kids— whatever age they are. And the house doesn’t have to always be tidy—that’s what makes it feel like home! God taught me that who I am is more than enough as a mum. And God’s got you, too!’
Above: Gill with daughter-in-law Suzie, sons Ethan and Caleb, and grandchildren Bella and Josias.
Children across Aotearoa gathered on March 15 under the banner of The Salvation Army for Kids Day Out. Celebrations were attended by 246 tamariki (children) and took place at four locations around the country: Areketanara Alexandra, Ōtautahi Christchurch, Te Papa-i-Oea Palmerston North, and Kirikiriroa Hamilton.
The theme for the day was Look Up!, which was taken from Psalm 121:1–2, ‘I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.’ Children were encouraged to lift their eyes, hearts and hopes toward God, remembering that no matter what challenges they face, they are never alone.
Tamariki and rangatahi (young people) enjoyed the opportunity to connect with one another and with God through a range of activities which included games, pizza, a ninja course, workshops and lolly scrambles. These events were organised by the national Next Gen team, made up of officers and dedicated staff who support children’s ministry in The Salvation Army. The success of the event was beautifully captured by Ayla from Albany Bays Corps, who shared, ‘It was a really great experience, and I can’t wait to see what else happens this year!’
‘Big Day Out in Hamilton was awesome! There were lots of games and we got to choose a workshop. The pizza was delicious, and Ninja Valley was a really fun place and lots of new things to try. Thank you to my leaders for taking me.’
—AYLA, ALBANY BAYS CORPS
‘It was a fun day for all the kids, and my favourite part was Ninja Valley. I thought the Intermediate games workshop was good too. They taught us how to work together and get to know each other more.’—RAISHA, HAMILTON CITY CORPS
We felt close to God when we:
Tried new things
Had fun together
Prayed Hung out with friends
‘I liked Ninja Valley, the high ropes and the tramps, especially. I enjoyed the story about Aussie Ben, and I liked the vending machine. The hip hop and jazz in the dance workshop was fun.’—YASMIN, HAMILTON CITY CORPS
‘The day was super fun, and I loved it! Ninja Valley was the best fun. I met some new people.’—NGARUA, HAMILTON CITY CORPS
‘Our favourite things were swimming, the games and the lolly scramble!’—MOSGIEL CORPS CHILDREN
‘Our favourite things about the day out were hanging out with our friends and learning more about God, doing crafts, pizza and Ninja Valley.’— LINWOOD CORPS CHILDREN
Honouring One Another
A very happy Mother’s Day. It’s good to be able to honour, recognise and support mothers on their special day.
I appreciate, too, that Mother’s Day can bring mixed emotions, and I want to acknowledge that.
Mothers face unique challenges when raising children in today’s world, often balancing work, home life and spiritual responsibilities. As The Salvation Army, it’s important for us to offer support to mums at all stages of parenting.
Celebration days like these give us opportunity not just to honour mothers but to honour one another. Honouring others motivates, inspires and energises us. Honouring one another is important; God can use it to bring about transformation on the inside. This is why God tells us to honour each other.
In Romans 12:10 it says, ‘Love each other with genuine affection and take delight in honouring each other’ (NLT).
We honour one another when we value each other. We place value on a person with our words and actions. Jesus expressed honour to all, even those who were against him. We, too, should do the same as we interact with others.
When we honour each other, we practise humility; we put others above ourselves. Honouring one another means to show respect, it means to give attention.
In 1 Peter 2:17 it simply says to respect everyone. As followers of Jesus, we believe that God created everyone with a purpose and each person is significant. Even if we disagree, respecting means we are not rude.
Honouring one another involves grace. Romans 12 reminds us to take delight in each other. Honouring one another means showing enthusiasm; an aspect of taking delight also means to be eager about this. When we are talking about honouring each other, we are talking about treating people with value—their life matters.
The power of honouring one another has the potential to change relationships, so let us take delight in it and be eager to honour others.
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honouring each other. (NIV)
Ko te aroha, hei te mea tinihangakore. Kia whakarihariha ki te kino; kia ū ki te pai. Ka aroha ki ngā tēina, kia tino pono te aroha tētahi ki tētahi; ka whakahōnore, kia nuit tā tētahi i tētahi. (PT)
Me dina ka maucokona vinaka na nomuni loloma. Mo ni cata na ca ka taura matua na ka vinaka. Ni veilomani sara me vaka ni o ni sa veitacini ena vuku i Karisito; ka mo ni veiuasiviti ena veivakarokorokotaki. (FOV)
Ke ta’eloi ho’omou ‘ofa. Fehi’a’ia ki he kovi; pikitai ki he lelei. ‘I ho’omou ‘ofa ki he kainga lotu fai ‘o hange ko ha kaimga mo’oni; ‘i he faka’apa’aoa mou tāimu’a kimoutolu. (TWB)
Aua ne’i faatagā alofa; ia ‘ino‘ino i le leaga, ia pipii i le lelei. Ia fefaapelepeleai i le fealofani o uso; ia tausolomua ona ava o le tasi i le tasi. (SOV)
Take delight in honouring each other.
Sanctuary in Whangārei
Sanctuary Café is celebrating its first birthday this month!
Based at The Salvation Army Whangārei Corps and Community Ministries Centre, the friendly staff and volunteers who serve at the café have already made their way into the hearts of Whangārei locals. Jules Badger spoke with manager Anna Harkness to find out what makes Sanctuary Café so special.
‘It’s so much more than just a place to grab a coffee,’ explains Anna. ‘Our vision is to cultivate a space that fosters relationships and reflects the love of Christ through hospitality.’
Sanctuary Café is open five days a week, from 8am to 2pm, and it’s a beautiful space, with the creativity of local artists adorning the walls. Anna’s vision is to promote local artists by exhibiting their art in the café. It’s a collaboration that benefits both parties—a win for the café’s aesthetics and also for the artists. The mixed media work of Northland artist Jacob Davey is currently on display (pictured) and reflects his deep connection to nature and culture. Jacob studied Māori visual arts at Te Pūtahi-a-Toi, Massey University.
‘Jacob’s beautiful pieces have truly enhanced our space, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that our customers love,’ says Anna. ‘It’s also a way to encourage our local artists.’
Passion for the people
Anna knows her trade well, having been the kitchen manager at the highly frequented Quail Café—a Whangārei favourite. And while serving quality food and drink is a high priority for Anna, it’s the personal connection she is most passionate about.
‘It’s about making time to talk to our customers, to listen, learn their names and hear their stories. Our patrons are from all walks of life and include Salvation Army staff and volunteers, local workers, parents and kids, church members and others looking for companionship
Left: Anna Harkness (photo by Kezia Lee); right: Jacob Davey’s work on display at Sanctuary Café.
and rest from the fast-paced world we live in. Many people experience isolation or stress and so the café is a place of refuge where people can come, pause, connect, be encouraged and sometimes just experience a little bit of kindness in their day.’
Centre leader, Captain Emma Howan, adds, ‘Sanctuary Café not only fuels us physically to carry out our mission in Whangārei, but it’s also a vital mission space that brings all of us together! As we continue to create space for these more relaxed social interactions, we are becoming better connected with each other and our community.’
‘I am just so grateful to God and want to give him all the honour and glory for the way he is working through all of us at Sanctuary Café.’
Safe and supportive space
The Salvation Army Bridge programme is situated on the same site, meaning Sanctuary Café also provides a safe and supportive space where participants can take a break and reflect. A Recovery Church attendee herself, Anna says, ‘I am just so grateful to God and want to give him all the honour and glory for the way he is working through all of us at Sanctuary Café’.
Working alongside Anna is a barista and a team of committed volunteers. ‘They are so aligned with the vision of hospitality and sharing the love of Jesus with the people who come in— they are very passionate volunteers!’ says Anna.
Sanctuary Café is multifaceted in its mission and ministry, with a Kids’ Play Café on a Friday for parents and their children. There are toys set out for the kids and there’s plenty of space to play.
Hospitality training is also offered to young people. Anna explains that, ‘part of our mission is training young people. We have volunteers from YWAM (Youth with a Mission) and other young people who want to learn good hospitality skills to help them get into the workforce.’
When it comes to coffee, Anna’s keeping it local. ‘We have a relationship with local company Altura who supply us with organic beans. They also sponsored the purchase of our coffee machine—it’s been a wonderful collaboration.’ But when it comes to anything chocolate, it’s The Salvation Army’s own Hamodava Coffee Company that wins out. ‘All our chocolate is Hamodava—our hot chocolate and mocha beverages. We also have Hamodava chocolate products for sale,’ explains Anna.
‘The Salvation Army was looking for a café manager and I just knew this was the answer to my prayers.’
A divine appointment
Anna’s journey with Sanctuary Café began after a change in personal circumstances. ‘I was praying about what to do next, waiting on God, when the position came up. The Salvation Army was looking for a café manager and I just knew this was the answer to my prayers. I felt it in my heart and I knew this was the moment for faithful action, so I dropped my CV off in person. I had my interview the following week and it felt like a divine appointment. That was the beginning of a wonderful journey.’
Plans for the first birthday celebrations include customer stories and testimonies, live music, a Salvation Army-themed photo booth, prayer and blessing for the café by Captains Jacob and Emma Howan— and free donuts for everyone!
God’s Guidance and Grace
David and Michelle Thompson are from Christchurch City Corps. David shares with Lt-Colonel Gordon Daly their adventures when moving from Chennai, India, to Christchurch, New Zealand.
Our journey to move to New Zealand began on 16 March 2017. We asked my father-in-law if he would be willing to help us and he readily agreed. We started the emigration process, faced numerous obstacles and at times felt like giving up.
We applied for my wife Michelle’s visa and began selling our household belongings. As we waited for the student loan approval, we lived in an almost empty house. The waiting period was excruciating, and we often wondered what would happen if the loan didn’t come through.
On a Sunday morning, I broke down in tears during a church service, praying and asking God if he was still with us. As I looked up at the altar, I saw the Lord’s face appear on the ceiling. I couldn’t believe my eyes. As I waited in line for holy communion, my phone vibrated, and an email popped up stating that the student loan had been approved. It was a miracle, as banks in India don’t work on Sundays.
…I broke down in tears during a church service, praying and asking God if he was still with us.
Michelle received her student visa, but my visa was delayed due to medical issues. As the days turned into weeks, Michelle had to travel to New Zealand alone, leaving us behind. The next day, I prayed fervently, asking God to grant me my visa. That evening, I received an email from New Zealand Immigration stating that my visa, along with our boys Jayden and Ezekiel’s visas, had been approved.
We arrived in New Zealand with only four suitcases, leaving behind a comfortable life in India.
Michelle found a casual job, but I struggled to find employment. Despite my efforts, I couldn’t secure a permanent job, and our finances began to dwindle. With only $50 in my account, two boys to feed, and a weekly rent of $180, I felt overwhelmed. The education loan was due and I didn’t know how I would pay it. I cried out to God, asking for his help. As I prayed, my phone rang, and a person offered me a job as a security guard for events. This job helped cover most of my expenses for that month.
Despite my efforts, I couldn’t secure a permanent job, and our finances began to dwindle… I felt overwhelmed.
After attending the New Year’s Day service at The Salvation Army, I met Major Bev Baxter, who preached that day. We got talking about her experience serving in Chennai, where I’m from, and she asked about my work experience. She suggested that I would be a good fit for a hospital setting and sent me a link to apply for a job. Although I was hesitant due to previous rejections, I decided to take a chance and applied.
The very next day, I received an email from Christchurch Hospital inviting me to an interview for a casual administrator position. During the interview, the lady mentioned that she was initially going to reject my application but wanted to ask me about my knowledge of the hospital’s software. To my surprise, I had experience working with the same software in India. She was impressed and I was offered the job on the spot.
We met Peter and Patricia Newton through mutual friends, and after our friends (who we were staying
with) had to relocate due to visa issues, we were fortunate enough to move in with Pete and Pat. We instantly felt at home, and our relationship with them was warm and loving. Patricia was especially kind, generously offering to look after our boys during school holidays. This was a huge blessing, allowing Michelle and me to work without worrying about childcare.
On 18 November 2017, I was feeling uncertain about finding a church to attend. Patricia noticed my concern and asked what was wrong. I shared our struggle and she invited us to visit The Salvation Army Christchurch City Corps. Our first visit felt like coming home. The hymns were familiar and we felt a deep connection.
Under the guidance of Lt-Colonels Gordon and Susan Daly, who arrived shortly after our first visit, we became increasingly involved in the church community. Gordon’s friendly and inclusive nature made us feel valued, and we appreciated his encouragement to participate in various church activities.
On 14 October 2018, Michelle and I were honoured to become soldiers of The Salvation Army, with Gordon as our mentor. Since then, Gordon and Susan have become close friends, always available to offer support and guidance whenever we need it.
As we navigated the complex and often stressful process of obtaining residency, we faced numerous setbacks and visa changes. There were times when it seemed like our dreams of calling New Zealand home were slipping away. But every time our visa was about to expire, God intervened, making changes that favoured us and paved the way for our residency. In 2022, after years of perseverance and trust in God’s plan, we finally received our residency.
I’m grateful to God for his provision and guidance throughout our journey.
Above: David and Michelle Thompson ministering through hospitality.
I’m grateful to God for his provision and guidance throughout our journey. I’d also like to thank Major Bev Baxter for her encouragement and support. Additionally, I appreciate the love, support and prayers from Peter and Patricia Newton, Gordon and Susan Daly, Brian and Joy Pearce, David and Trish Shepherd, Des and Cherie Buckner, Martin and Lynley Robertson, and the entire Christchurch City Corps family.
Today, over seven years later, we are blessed to own a nice house and live a comfortable life by God’s grace. Though it seemed impossible, like standing in front of the Red Sea, God helped us walk right through it. All glory and praise to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
From Hurt to Hope
The Salvation Army has been a cornerstone of social support in New Zealand since 1884, providing vital services to those in need. SALT sat down with two recipients of these services, Rewi and Michael, to learn firsthand about the life-changing work happening at Addington Supportive Accommodation and the Bridge Te Arawhata in Ōtautahi Christchurch.
WORDS Kelly Cooper
’ve been battling ever since I was born,’ reflects Rewi. ‘I was a premature baby born into an environment of addiction. We didn’t have much and were extremely poor. I remember waking up to screaming and witnessing a lot of violence. It was extremely traumatic. I wouldn’t wish my childhood on anyone.’
Rewi was first introduced to marijuana at 10 years old and to alcohol not long after. As a young child he experienced physical, emotional, mental and sexual abuse. When he was 11 years old, Rewi and his twin brother were often left at home to look after themselves.
Rewi describes playing rugby league with his brother as the only highlight of his childhood. ‘Sport was the good thing that we held on to. No one saw behind the scenes of our real lives,’ shares Rewi. This ended when he turned up drunk to practice and was turned away.
‘I remember being naughty at school,’ recalls Rewi. ‘I was expelled from high school at age 14 and hung around with gangs. That’s when stealing cars and smash and grabs started happening. I was just surviving, and crime was a mechanism to keep living. Your mind can’t think of anything positive when you are that hungry.’
Rewi and his partner got together when they were 16, and they moved to Whakatū (Nelson) with her son.
‘We moved to get away from all the drugs and the gangs,’ explains Rewi, ‘but I didn’t realise that it was within me, it didn’t matter where I went. It was like drugs and alcohol were magnetised to me.’
‘…It didn’t matter where I went. It was like drugs and alcohol were magnetised to me.’
Longing for belonging
Michael also describes his early years as complex and challenging. ‘Throughout my childhood I had a desire to feel loved and I didn’t have that need met,’ he shares. As a young person he was significantly impacted by several incidents, including sexual abuse, diagnoses of epilepsy and dyslexia, the separation of his parents and his mother’s alcoholism.
At high school things took a turn for the worse. While there, Michael experienced severe bullying and was sexually assaulted for a second time. This triggered a downward spiral of depression and anxiety, leading him to contemplate ending his life. ‘I was only 15 the first time I tried to kill myself. I had very little selfworth,’ Michael explains.
Following high school, Michael trained as a mechanic and met a partner who he spent the following 10 years with. He describes this relationship as extremely toxic. ‘I just felt so worthless. That’s when I started to use drugs and alcohol heavily. I just wanted to numb it all and to forget,’ he shares. ‘I began smoking meth to try and get closer to my partner and I got hooked on that.’
The blessing of this time was the arrival of Michael’s son, however, Michael faced ongoing battles with his mental health, leading to further suicide attempts as his relationship deteriorated. ‘It’s incredible the power that addiction has over a soul,’ shares Michael. ‘I lost everything to meth. Three times I had to start over with just the clothes on my back, but I still didn’t learn.’
Enough is enough
Then one morning in early March last year, after a night of binging on drugs and alcohol, something shifted in Michael as he woke up. ‘I clearly heard this voice that said, “Don’t you think you’ve had enough?” I knew it wasn’t my voice. Hearing those words gave me the drive and the motivation to want to change,’ explains Michael. He made plans, with the support of his mother, to move into The Salvation Army’s Addington Supportive Accommodation (ASA) in Christchurch.
‘I clearly heard this voice that said, “Don’t you think you’ve had enough?”’
ASA is part of a network of Salvation Army supportive accommodation facilities that provides transitional housing in eight locations across New Zealand. Specifically, ASA provides services for people facing complex challenges, including mental health issues, addictions and criminal justice involvement. Support services include counselling, addiction treatment referrals, housing advocacy and employment referrals, as well as kapa haka, Bible study and chaplaincy.
Rewi shared an experience of a similar nature to Michael in November 2023, when he also heard a voice ask the question, “Haven’t you had enough?”
‘I made my decision that day,’ recalls Rewi. ‘I knew I was going to end up in prison. I could see no end game. So many times, I would wake up and not know what I had done the night before. That voice was so clear. I acted on it and rang for help right away.’ He enrolled at the Bridge Te Arawhata, Christchurch, and began residential treatment in January 2024.
The Salvation Army Bridge Te Arawhata is a national programme that provides a range of supportive services to those seeking wellness that help reduce the harmful effects of alcohol and other drugs. Bridge services are supported by a range of professional staff who bring a combination of clinical knowledge and lived experience to provide a variety of wraparound support services, including a 12-step programme, residential care, community day programmes, whānau support and Recovery Church.
New beginnings
Both men acknowledge God’s goodness, along with the care, compassion and generosity of the dedicated staff as key to how far they’ve come since seeking support from ASA and the Bridge, respectively.
‘I moved into Addington on Friday 8 March 2024 and on Monday 10 March I made the decision to stop using both drugs and alcohol. From that point on I engaged in every programme The Salvation Army offered, including attending Bible studies and that is when I let Christ into my life,’ shares Michael.
Michael has been drug and alcohol free for over a year now and describes many blessings in his life since coming to ASA. ‘I am so grateful to God for what he has done in my life,’ says Michael. ‘He took away my
marijuana, meth and alcohol addictions—bam!—just like that. I understand that this doesn’t happen for everyone. What a powerful God we serve!’
‘Once I made the decision to enter recovery at the Bridge I haven’t looked back.’
In August last year, with the support of the staff at ASA, Michael received full custody of his son. ‘I was ready to fight for him, as my ex-partner was still using. I know that the Lord interceded and made this happen. I now get to be the kind of dad he has always wanted.’
Rewi shares, ‘Once I made the decision to enter recovery at the Bridge I haven’t looked back. I can’t believe that God was able to break addictions I had carried for over 20 years. I have now been clean for 15 months.’
Rewi’s time at the Bridge rekindled his childhood curiosity in the Christian faith and he came to know God through attending an Alpha course. Rewi describes encountering the Holy Spirit as a beautiful experience that confirmed he is on the right path. Through ASA he has also rediscovered a passion for
kapa haka and regularly attends Recovery Church with his daughter.
Connection and community
Michael and Rewi express deep gratitude for the significant impact the staff at ASA and the Bridge have had on their lives and their recovery. ‘There are so many people who have had such an impact on our journeys,’ shares Michael. Among them is Lloyd Manukau, resident support worker at ASA and the Christchurch Bridge. ‘Matua Lloyd has been there since day one,’ says Rewi. In his role, Lloyd supports Bible studies, the haka roopu and is an active member of the Recovery Church team.
Both men also acknowledge mission officer and chaplain at ASA, Lieutenant Tammy Mohi. ‘Tammy opened my eyes to God and is so supportive of us in everything she does,’ says Michael. A significant part of Tammy’s work revolves around her role in the Awhi team. The Awhi team creates safe spaces for tangata (ASA residents) to share openly, be authentic and build awareness around their wellbeing. Support is offered through small group sessions, one-on-one counselling and employment pathway guidance.
Tammy references 1 Corinthians 12:20–26 when describing the team at ASA. ‘We all have a part to play,’ she says. ‘This passage emphasises the unity and interdependence of all parts of the body of Christ. Each part, regardless of its perceived strength or honour, is indispensable and deserves special care and respect. When one part suffers, the whole body suffers, when one part is honoured, the whole body rejoices.’
Rewi stresses the importance of recovery within a connected community and is quick to recognise the vital role of recovery friends who are available for a ‘real korero’ (conversation). ‘We have true friendships that are based on respect, not on what you’ve got,’ he says.
‘I think as men we are given this certain standard to live up to. We can’t cry, we can’t show emotion, we have to be tough,’ explains Rewi. ‘I am grateful for the realisation that it’s all just lies. We are all dealing with heavy day-to-day things and when we have vulnerable
spaces to talk, you feel like you can share and are worthy and loved.’
Faith for the future
‘So many doors have opened for me that I couldn’t see in addiction,’ shares Rewi. ‘My partner and I celebrate our 20-year anniversary this month. My daughter is now 13 years old and my son is 21. He recently told me, “I’m proud of you, Dad”. I am so grateful to my family for seeing my potential and giving me another chance. Last year I went up north to see my dad and to forgive him for the things that happened in the past. Rebuilding these relationships with my whānau is beautiful.’
‘We can break generational chains and trauma. We do have choices.’
When he considers the future, Rewi shares, ‘I take each day as it comes. I know the Lord has me and I want to be a vessel for him and to help others in the future. I want people to know that you don’t have to live like that. We can break generational chains and trauma. We do have choices.’
Michael adds, ‘I quite often reflect on who I used to be. It’s such a blessing to wake up every day; to thank God and to experience the way he wraps his arms around us to let us know it’s going to be okay. In my past life I had nothing. I know that with God I have a future.’
If alcohol and or other drugs are adversely impacting your life, the Bridge is here to help. Visit bridge. salvationarmy.org.nz or phone 0800 53 00 00 for more information.
The Many and the One
WORDS Lt-Colonel Ian Gainsford
I walked through the memory of the world along a forest path of green, deep green awash with sounds of water, wind, tui, cicada —the deep breath of whenua.
The forest’s tale was not one but many: the tall tree, the winding vine, the deep root and the shallow. The rotting stump and green shoot pushing through soft bark… the long slow pull of time and the steady drip of daylight passing. Tread soft, the trees whisper. Stand tall, the rocks reply. Close your eyes, the deep green murmurs. Open your heart, the sunlight cries.
I sit on green grass beneath the wide blue sky. Perhaps this tale is not many but one bound together by the Creator’s voice, the memory of sky, rock, water, the breath of life and a deep green grace. Perhaps it is the many and the one, or neither, all at the same time. Perhaps God is bigger than my dreams deeper than the memory of the world, familiar as the path we know yet different from the old ways, and perhaps we must be too.
I Have All I Need
Spiritual director, author and podcaster Emily Freeman describes Psalm 23 as ‘a frame to hold us, a fixed point to return to, a kindness to care for us and a gathering place to come back to’.
In part one of this series, Jules Badger gives us her lived experience with this psalm and why Psalm 23 has not only comforted believers for centuries but continues to offer comfort today.
In recent months, I have been learning to recite Psalm 23 by heart. Why? I wanted these words to be the first on my lips in the morning and the last thoughts in my head after lights out. Some mornings I recite it as a declaration of faith and trust, while other days it takes the shape of a prayer of deep need.
Of course, there have also been plenty of everyday moments when worry and angst have threatened to take hold, and I’ve been able to pause,
take a deep breath and slowly call Psalm 23 to mind as a way of leaning into God’s presence. This has become a spiritual practice that grounds me in God’s love and faithfulness— reminding me of what we’ve been through together and the promise of his continued presence in the future.
The Lord is my shepherd, I have all that I need…
However, for many years I didn’t understand what all the fuss was about! Psalm 23 was something that
other people found comforting. It was the psalm of choice to read at funerals or when visiting the elderly— they loved Psalm 23! Often it was the King James Version (KJV) people were most familiar with, ‘The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want’. For many years those words baffled me. What did ‘I shall not want’ actually mean? And then it happened. A season in my life where everything was stripped away, and I faced the shocking insufficiency of all
my carefully curated plans and accumulated resources. And so, at the end of myself, I found the Shepherd. Or rather, the Shepherd found me. I soon realised that I wanted nothing and no one, only Jesus. And that’s when both the penny and the mic dropped!
I soon realised that I wanted nothing and no one, only Jesus.
While the New International Version (NIV) says, ‘The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing’, the New Living Translation (NLT) uses the phrase, ‘I have all that I need’. The Good News Bible (GNB), best for kids, new Christians and people for who English is not their first language, says, ‘I have everything I need’. So, ‘I shall not want’, or ‘I lack nothing’, when flipped into the positive affirms that everything I need is not only provided by Jesus but, more importantly, found in him. That was over a decade ago now. The intensity of the Shepherd’s life-saving rescue has settled into an intimate relationship of deepening love and ongoing transformation.
He makes me…
I’ve since learned that sheep don’t lie down until their needs are met— hunger satiated and thirst slaked. And they don’t sleep unless they feel safe. In Psalm 23, the shepherd leads them to nourishing grass and safe water and provides a protective presence while they rest.
Max Lucado explains in his little book Safe in the Shepherd’s Arms that sheep of course have no sharp claws, horns or fangs. They are utterly defenseless against predators. Sheep
are quite literally mobile meat and wool on spindly little legs. Their wide girth is not designed for outrunning anything! They are totally reliant on the shepherd for protection.
There was a time when the call to rest—to lie down in green pastures— was easy for me to brush off. But not anymore. I know what happens when I don’t listen to that call, and I know that the human body keeps score. When we refuse to rest, we become unwell. The NIV and the KJV translate this verse as ‘He maketh me lie down in green pastures’, which resonates. There was a time when my body, soul and spirit collapsed. It was like I’d arrived in the A&E department by ambulance, rather than choosing to go to the doctor for a routine check-up.
I know what happens when I don’t listen to that call, and I know that the human body keeps score.
Both the NLT and the GNB translate this verse as ‘He lets me rest in fields of green grass’. I love the sense of invitation being offered to take up a spiritual rhythm of rest for body, mind and soul.
Like sheep who have been fed and watered and sleep because they know the shepherd is watching over them, we come to Jesus and find the rest we need—our souls and our strength restored by his presence. Intimacy with God changes us. It has changed me. Like a sheep being gently guided by the shepherd along safe paths, the shift from wanting and insisting on my own way to desiring what Jesus now calls me to feels less like
stepping off the edge of a cliff hoping he will catch me, and more like knowing I can run into his arms and he will never turn me away. Trust grows from intimacy.
…I can run into his arms and he will never turn me away.
He leads me…
While all the modern translations say, ‘He guides me along the right paths, bringing honour to his name’, the KJV says, ‘He leadeth me’. There’s certainly something gentle and appealing about a shepherd who guides, and yet a shepherd who leads the way forward infers not only knowledge of the path ahead, but a firmer purpose in choosing it. This is not about the blind obedience of sheep, but a beautiful picture of complete trust in the Shepherd who provides, protects and knows what’s ahead. He’s been this way before, and so he leads us.
Emily Freeman suggests that the first half of Psalm 23 is very much about the action of God.
‘We don’t typically think of Psalm 23 as an action psalm. A comfort, a promise, a presence, yes. But a psalm of action isn’t perhaps our first impression. Here, though, with these first three verses all together, a movement begins to take shape: God makes, God leads, God restores, God leads again.’
Lives Changed at BMAC
On Thursday 6 March, a group of women began the long journey through peak hour Auckland traffic towards The Salvation Army’s Blue Mountain Adventure Centre (BMAC) in Raurimu. Jules Badger reports on how their three days away together changed everything.
BMAC is an outdoor adventure centre located in the heart of the North Island, with the mission of helping ‘people discover and live out their God-given potential through the challenge of adventure’. Twenty-one women from various programmes and services of Waitākere Central Corps and Community Ministries attended the camp at BMAC, and many had not previously met.
One of the camp attendees, Karma Murphy, said, ‘I was excited to go away with the other women, but I was nervous about leaving my five boys, and because I didn’t really know everyone—not on a personal level. We’ve become much closer since going to BMAC!’
From fear to prayer
Corps officer Lt-Colonel Sheryl Jarvis, and Georgia Mellsop co-led the weekend. Sheryl described the make-up of the group as, ‘a beautiful mix of women’. With the youngest participant aged 23 and the eldest 77, the intergenerational
group was also culturally diverse and representative of different backgrounds, including women in recovery from addiction and others leaving violent partners and exiting gang life. Many are solo parenting, and some had never been out of Auckland or to that part of the country before.
Going to BMAC was Lynn Misa’s first time leaving her six children. ‘I never wanted to leave my kids before because they were still young, but when the chance came this time to go to BMAC I thought, Oh they are old enough now, so I could leave them and take some time to reconnect with myself. So that was a highlight for me—time to myself. And so much about camp strengthened my walk with God.’
Each day began with an optional prayer meeting held at 7am. ‘There were 17plus women each day,’ said Sheryl. ‘It wasn’t compulsory, so to see so many choosing to get up early to pray together was deeply moving.’
On the first day the women participated in high ropes and rock-wall climbing, while the second day was spent whitewater rafting. The women supported and encouraged each other as they stepped out of their comfort zones, faced their fears and pushed past their perceived limits.
Taua Matai’a conquered her fear of heights at BMAC. ‘I was determined to do activities that challenged me and made me step out of my comfort zone, like high ropes and rock climbing,’ she said.
‘The scariest thing I did at BMAC was jumping off the five-metre cliff into the river,’ explained Lynn. ‘It was the most terrifying thing I have ever done! My kids have seen the fear in me, so I couldn’t wait to tell my kids I had done it!’
Creating a village
A special time was when BMAC instructor Steve Ward openly shared about the personal tragedy he and his wife experienced with the loss of their
babies, which touched the women. Steve challenged them to consider the question: ‘When it’s tough, who’s your village?’
‘I’ve come back knowing that the women I’m friends with— they’ve got my back,’ said Taua.
‘The BMAC staff were just wonderful,’ said Sheryl, who reports that since the trip, the women are becoming a village with each other.
‘There are ongoing connections between the women that are deepening,’ she said. ‘Some have started coming more regularly to church because they became part of something bigger that weekend—they built relationships and now feel a sense of connection with and care for each other. They are walking across the room to catch up. We also have a Messenger chat—technology helps with connection too!’
Jade Karati is part of the Community Ministries team and leads the Building Awesome Whānau programme. Jade said, ‘It was a really amazing privilege to see some of the women I have journeyed with over the past three years have a real breakthrough, not only within themselves but also in their walk with God. Since camp, one of greatest things I’ve been able to bear witness to is how much the women want that real transformative change in their lives.’
‘It was a beautiful gift getting to know these incredible women.’
An unexpected gift
Sheryl was initially hesitant when she arrived to her new appointment as corps officer at Waitākere in January and discovered she was scheduled for a women’s adventure camp just a few months after beginning.
‘Not usually my jam,’ she laughed. ‘But the weekend was such a gift to me! The relationships formed have been lifechanging for the women and for me as well. I got to learn a bit of 20 women’s stories. I saw them face their fears and support each other. I got to be part of an all-embracing bond that included me! It was a beautiful gift getting to know these incredible women.’
The trip was funded by the Strathlachlan Grassroots Fund, which focuses on changing the causes of women’s vulnerability at local levels. Local corps members also contributed generously to costs.
‘I would recommend BMAC, especially to other mums,’ said Lynn. ‘If someone wants to take me again, I’m willing to go back!’
Strength and Sisterhood in Tonga
March marked a time of celebration and honour for the women of Tonga Region, as communities gathered for International Women’s Day events. On 12 March, the Women’s Ministries team organised a Women’s Rally at Fua’amotu beach. Women from five corps gathered for a day of fun and fellowship. Activities included a prayer session, games and a shared lunch, as well as messages focusing on the characteristics of godly women. Corps across Tonga continued the International Women’s Day celebrations by dedicating part of their Sunday morning services to honouring women. ‘Our women are so generous, talented and deeply supportive of their corps. They do amazing work serving others. It was wonderful to celebrate them,’ shared Tonga Regional Commander, Major Vakatoto Wawa.
For the full story, go to saltmagazine.org.nz
Emergency Services Response Team Training
The 2025 Emergency Services Response Team (ESRT) training took place from 17 to 20 March at Booth College of Mission (BCM), hosted by the Centre for Leadership Development. The training was facilitated by Major Deane Goldsack, territorial coordinator of Salvation Army Emergency Services, with Wendy Lobb from Supporter Engagement and Fundraising, who is a trained psychologist and has extensive experience supporting people in traumatic situations. Twenty-one people attended the training from across the territory, including officers from Fiji Division and Tonga Region; notably, Lieutenant Karen Krishnan, manager for Suva Family Care
Retail with Heart
Papanui Family Store in Christchurch has recently celebrated two of their staff achieving their level three retail certifications. Alice Hancock, who has worked at the store since 2020, has developed her confidence and retail skills in recent years with the encouragement of the supportive team at Papanui. Brittany Kerr, who has volunteered with the Family Store for 10 years, is now a permanent part-time worker who has gained her level three certification as well. Connor Wernham has also joined the dynamic team and is excelling in his customer-facing role in this his first job. He is working towards his level three retail qualification. ‘Good things are happening in Family Stores,’ shares Pauline Broadhurst, Family Store area manager, Canterbury North. ‘Our stores are not just about making money; they are about investing in people as well. The team at Papanui do this particularly well.’
For the full story, go to saltmagazine.org.nz
Centre and advocate for women, the first female to attend ESRT training from the Pacific Islands. Other attendees were officers and staff from around New Zealand.
For the full story, go to saltmagazine.org.nz
Growing Community
Good things are growing in South Auckland as Salvation Army Social Housing (SASH) expands their Chapel Road housing project. In addition to the existing 46 units, new ground was broken in September last year, and construction of a further 41 units is underway. Stage two of this development includes 12 single bedroom apartments as well as some larger homes for whānau (families), including three, four and some five-bedroom dwellings. This is a response to meeting the needs of larger families, with these properties providing much-needed homes for many on the Housing Register. In addition to these homes, the family-friendly community will have access to a half basketball court, a playground, an on-site chaplain and a tenancy manager.
For the full story, go to saltmagazine.org.nz
A Joyful Noise in Ōtāhuhu
Only 18 months ago, numbers were dwindling in the Ōtāhuhu Corps brass band, but a chance meeting and conversation changed everything. ‘I sat down with a woman when we were having a cup of tea and she said to me, “I’d like to learn a brass instrument”. I told her if she got a group together, I’d teach them. She brought along 16 to 17 people to that first session,’ explains Barrie Turner, now a band tutor at Ōtāhuhu Corps. Barrie, along with Bandmaster Andrew Browne, marvels at how quickly the band has grown. Both men have a life-long interest in music. Andrew has been bandmaster at Ōtāhuhu for over 10 years and Barrie has over 40 years’ experience as a conductor of concert and brass bands. Together, they make a talented team, with Andrew leading the senior band and Barrie tutoring in their Band Academy.
For the full story, go to saltmagazine.org.nz
Embolden Hope
The Salvation Army’s International Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Response Council has released its annual impact report, Embolden Hope. The report celebrates those at the heart of its response who, through their unwavering dedication to dismantling and responding to modern slavery and human trafficking, embolden hope in countless lives. In 2024, more than 165,500 people vulnerable to modern slavery and human trafficking and 14,552 survivors received support from The Salvation Army. Commissioner Kelvin Pethybridge, international secretary for administration and personnel, writes, ‘This report highlights the vastness of the work that is being done around the world, and the incredible difference that is being made to bring freedom and hope to precious individuals’.
For the full story, go to saltmagazine.org.nz
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7 May: Territorial Online Praying Together meeting—winter edition
21 May: SEF Open Doors, Royal Oak, Auckland
Lt-Colonel Liz Gainsford (Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development)
7 May: Territorial Online Praying Together meeting—winter edition
26–30 May: Officer Spiritual Retreat, Magnificat Retreat Centre, Featherston
Gazette Summary
To read the full version of Gazette notices, visit saltmagazine.org.nz/gazette
Bereavement: Dawn Hill, the sister of Major Shirley Kilgour, mother of Karen Baker and mother-in-law of Major Shaun Baker, passed away from Auckland on 6 March 2025. We ask you to uphold Majors Shirley and Ian Kilgour, Karen Baker and Major Shaun Baker, along with other extended family members in your prayers during this time of grief and loss.
Fergus Knowles, the grandson of Majors Bernie and Helen Knowles passed away suddenly on 29 March 2025. Please keep Majors Bernie and Helen Knowles in your prayers, along with their family at this time of grief and loss.
Grace Danagi Wapo, the sister of Captain Augustine Danagi, passed away on 11 April 2025, from Papua New Guinea. We ask you to uphold Captains Augustine and Anna Danagi and their extended family members in your prayers in this time of grief and loss. Marion Steel, the younger sister of Lt-Colonel William Allott and Major Ivan Allott, passed away on 13 April 2025, from Perth, Australia. We ask you to uphold Lt-Colonels William and Heather Allott, Majors Ivan and Muriel Allott, along with other family members, in your prayers during this time of grief and loss.
Resignation: Effective 8 June 2025, the Territorial Commander announces with regret the resignation from officership of Captain Hana Seddon. Hana entered training as a cadet in the Ambassadors of Holiness session in 2009, and was appointed as officer in training and chaplain, the Bridge Programme, Northland Region and chaplain, Employment Plus Whangārei and Kaikohe. Following this, in 2014 Hana was appointed as divisional secretary for Northern Division Māori Ministry and additional appointments from 2016 in the Northern Division as divisional Missionary Fellowship secretary; divisional Silver Star secretary; divisional coordinator for Emergency Services; and Hekeretari Manatu Māori, ASARS Māori Ministry. In 2021 Hana was appointed divisional Mission Projects officer, before being appointed as corps officer, Rotorua Corps and director, Rotorua Community Ministries in 2022.
Appointment in Retirement: Effective 1 April 2025, Major Iliesa Cola has been appointed as Fiji Division and Tonga Region support officer, Officer Support Unit. Please pray for Major Iliesa as he prepares to take up this appointment in retirement.
Appointments: Captain Seru Napolioni and Major Samantha Millar have been appointed to the International College for Officers. May God bless Captain Seru and Major Samantha as they begin preparations for attending in 2026. We pray that the experience will enrich them spiritually and give them encouragement.
The Salvation Army Feilding Corps
140TH ANNIVERSARY
SATURDAY 31 MAY
2–4pm A look down memory lane (Bring your old photos with you)
SUNDAY 1 JUNE
10am Worship service (Led by the Central Fellowship Band) 2pm Concert (By the Central Fellowship Band)
DO YOU HAVE A CONNECTION WITH FEILDING CORPS? Please get in touch with us as soon as possible for more information
feilding.corps@salvationarmy.org.nz (06) 323 4718
Quiz Answers: 1. Necessity, 2. ‘The Best Day’, 3. Psycho, 4. Mona Simpson, 5. South Korea.
SALVATIONISTS IN HISTORY
History of Home League
Since Florence Booth, daughter-in-law of Army co-founder William Booth, first conceived the idea of home league, it has grown into a thriving global community. SALT magazine reflects on the history of home league in New Zealand, tracing its humble beginnings to the impactful organisation it has become today.
The first home league meeting was held in London in 1907. Following this, an order from the-then territorial headquarters in Melbourne launched home league throughout Australasia. The North Dunedin Corps, who were already holding weekday meetings for married women, adopted this name and became the first home league within New Zealand.
Shortly after, other leagues were formed in Invercargill, Gisborne, Ashurst and Napier. By the end of 1916, at least seventeen local leagues were active in New Zealand. Their purpose was ‘giving spiritual counsel and practical direction to women in all matters relating to the home’.
Membership regulations broadened and leagues were opened to all women over 18 years of age who desired to join. Meetings followed a typical pattern which included singing and prayers, an address or reading and a cup of tea (with a biscuit). Mending, knitting and sewing were permitted during these meetings.
The outbreak of World War I saw many women join the league to provide comforts for New Zealand soldiers serving overseas. When World War I ended, service was redirected toward the poor and needy at home. Home league continued to grow in numbers increasing from 500 members in 1919 to 3429 members by 1938. New Zealand home leaguers again supplied comforts for soldiers and clothes for refugees in England during World War II.
Throughout this time, evangelical and spiritual growth remained a fundamental aim of the league. By 1940, the four-fold purposes of home league were defined globally as worship, education, fellowship and service. The league logo depicting a home on an open Bible continued to symbolise the organisation’s commitment to integrating practical home life with biblical principles.
After 1945, the leagues shifted their service focus to overseas, sending food and clothing to England and to New Zealand Salvationist missionaries. Over time, service evolved again, with an emphasis on raising funds for those in need. By 1990, New Zealand home leagues contributed over $100,000 annually to support both local and international initiatives.
In 1997, Colonel June Kendrew was appointed as territorial Women’s Ministry secretary for New Zealand. This was an international first and signalled changes to programmes in addition to home league, and a broader commitment to diversity and inclusion within the organisation. A change of name to Salvation Army Women’s Ministries took place that same year. New initiatives were encouraged to reach a broader group of younger women, including events and conferences.
Women’s Ministries underwent a rebrand in 2016, with a focus on using social media as a platform to engage younger women. Under the acronym ‘WM’, its purpose to engage women, empower mission and ignite action remains today. During the Covid-19 lockdowns, home leagues throughout New Zealand adapted by transitioning to online meetings providing support and fellowship for those in isolation.
While home league has continued to evolve since its inception over 100 years ago, it remains dedicated to the same core values: growing fully alive in Jesus, education, serving others and enjoying connection and companionship—over a cup of tea and a biscuit!
Reference: Laurence Hay, Women Together: a History of Women’s Organisations in New Zealand 1993
Members of the Wellington City Corps Home League and male corps officers, 1921. Image from Salvation Army Archives.
Our identity found in God
Labels are everywhere nowadays, and we often claim them for ourselves. Even in motherhood, instead of viewing ourselves as God does, we can latch on to the words and phrases that we feel define us as mums. Over time we start to see ourselves through this lens: the angry mum, the messy mum, the over-achiever mum, the hold-everythingtogether mum. The more we repeat these labels, the more we live up to them. Our identities are linked to our behaviours. Who we are, who we think we are, or who we want to be, often determine what we do and how we live.
The power of personal identity is one of the main reasons God spends so much of the Bible telling us who we’re created to be, who we are in him, and who we become in Jesus Christ. He made us, reassures us of his love and faithfulness and places our belonging in his care. God reminds us of who we are in Christ: redeemed, free, full of hope, loved beyond measure, heirs of wonderful promises. It is who we are to God that speaks truth over all our other identities.
Be encouraged by this true identity and share it with your children so they too will find and know their true identity in God. Let it be a reminder that you are a new creation in Christ, which is definitely a label worth remembering.
One of a Kind
“You made my whole being. You formed me in my mother’s body. I praise you because you made me in an
amazing
and wonderful way.” Psalm 139:13–14a (International Children’s Bible)
Read: There’s a great song in the book of Psalms in the Bible written by King David that you can read. This song talks about how God made each of us to be special. He chose our mother, and what we would look like. We are so precious to him.
Think: Have you ever wondered why God gave you brown eyes? Or blonde hair? Why he made you tall? Or gave you freckles? Perhaps you’ve wondered how God chose which family you’d be part of. God knew you before you were even born, and he made a plan for you. Think about how much your family loves you … God loves you even more than that! Always remember that you are special because you are God’s child.
Pray: Dear God, thank you for making me who I am. There’s no one else like me. I’m one of a kind. Help me to remember that I am special, and that you love me. Thank you for the family you’ve given to me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Do: It’s fun to celebrate with our mums. Show your mum, or other special person in your life, how much they mean to you this Mother’s Day. You could make them a card, or pick some flowers, or draw them a picture. Remember to thank them for loving and caring about you.
Colour in or decorate these card fronts! Then you can cut them out (get someone to help you if you’re little!), stick them to a folded piece of paper/card, and give one to your mum or a special adult in your life.
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!
