SALT February 2025, NZFTS by The Salvation Army SALT Magazine (NZ, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa)

Covenant of love Children grow together East Coast outreach Champions of the Mission Community in Levin Salvation Army Life and Times | Pēpuere 2025 | saltmagazine.org.nz

8 Champions of the Mission

We celebrate the ordination and commissioning of the Champions of the Mission session in Fiji and New Zealand.

14 Made in the Image of God

Newly appointed Territorial Commander, Commissioner Janine Donaldson reflects on the unique ways each of us is made in the image of God.

18 A New Life; a Better Life

Former meth addict Renee Johnson shares her story of recovery and receiving a study scholarship.

26 A Covenant of Love

Jules Badger explores biblical covenants and their connection to our understanding of te Tiriti o Waitangi as a covenantal relationship.

34 The Power of Endurance

Developing our ability to endure can be challenging for everyone. Check out the kids page for practical strategies and fun activities.

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, Glenys Fairhurst

Connect with us saltmagazine.org.nz SaltMagazine @SaltMagazineNZ salvationarmynzfts

Territorial Headquarters, 204 Cuba Street, PO Box 6015, Marion Square, Wellington 6141 p: (04) 384 5649

e: salt@salvationarmy.org.nz

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for 141 years

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.

Inheriting the family business

he Salvation Army ethos of rolling up your sleeves and getting on with the work is relevant in the unpredictable times we are heading into in 2025, particularly when we are being asked as a movement to do more with less, while the needs in the communities we serve continue to increase.

The Army’s commitment to service and the spreading of the good news of the gospel message are priorities for those with a deep and abiding faith, and this was reflected over the weekends of the commissioning of the Champions of the Mission session. Celebrations were held in both Fiji and New Zealand, and you can read about the highlights, starting on page 9.

This is also the Waitangi Day edition, as we recognise and celebrate New Zealand’s national day and the initial signing of te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi). The Salvation Army has prioritised its relationship with tangata whenua, and on page 20 you can read about some of the ministry taking place out of the Gisborne Corps to its surrounding communities. This Waitangi Day is an opportunity to witness to the redemptive power of your faith but also to mindfully attend celebrations with a heart for healing and reconciliation.

The first spoken words of Jesus, as recorded in Luke 2:49 (NKJV), are: ‘And he said to them, “Why did you seek me? Did you not know that I must be about my Father’s business?”’ At age 12, Jesus had gone missing during a family trip to Jerusalem and his parents found him in the temple, conversing with the elders and leaders. His sense of purpose and destiny are evident in these words, spoken to his parents when they finally found him. Jesus had a job to do— saving the world—and this was his heavenly Father’s business.

We have inherited the family business, and it is now our time to find purpose and live out our destinies as we each take our place in God’s divine plan. This may be on the treaty grounds at Waitangi or sharing faith with those who are overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty. The sense of urgency is palpable, and we have no time to waste. We, too, must be about our Father’s business.

Vivienne Hill Editor

‘For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the son he loves.’

COLOSSIANS 1:13

What’s on?

Territorial Welcome to Cadets, New Zealand

1 February

10.30am at Booth College of Mission, Upper Hutt. salvationarmy.org.

nz/CadetsWelcome State of the Nation 2025 Launch

12 February Loaves and Fishes Hall, 2 Hill St, Wellington, breakfast from 7am. For more information: salvationarmy.org.

nz/SOTN2025

Territorial Welcome to Cadets, Fiji 16 February 10am, USP AUSAID Lecture Theatre 1, The University of The South Pacific, Laucala Bay Campus, Suva. salvationarmy.org. nz/CadetsWelcome

Territorial Welcome to Commissioner Janine Donaldson 28 February Tawa Corps, light refreshments from 5.30, service at 6pm

KIWI QUIZ

Zesty Chicken, Feta and Veggie Spanakopita Spiral

This dish is a clever way to make a little bit of cooked chicken go a long way. While spanakopita is traditionally meat free and made with spinach, I’ve made it using various combinations of green veg. Simply omit the meat if you want to make it meat free. | 60 mins | Serves 4–6

Ingredients

• 1½ Tbsp butter

• 200g silverbeet, spinach, cabbage or a combination, very thinly sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, crushed

• 200g feta

• ½ cup (around 50g) parmesan, grated

• 1 chicken breast, cooked and shredded

• zest of 1 lemon

Method

Check out our full event calendar at salvationarmy.org. nz/news-events/ events/

1 How many eggs do kiwi birds lay in a year?

2 Does the male or female kiwi sit on the egg?

3 Which sense is highly developed in kiwi?

4 How many species of kiwi bird exist?

5 Which human activity most threatens kiwi?

6 What is the main meal of the kiwi? Answers page 32

• 1 Tbsp lemon juice

• a pinch of grated nutmeg

• 1 egg, lightly beaten with a fork

Pastry

• 8 sheets filo pastry

• 50ml olive oil

• 1 egg, lightly beaten, to glaze

• sesame or poppy seeds to decorate (optional)

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Melt the butter in a large frying pan and heat until bubbling, add prepared veggies and garlic and cook gently until tender, around five minutes.

Remove from heat and crumble in the feta. Stir in the parmesan, chicken, lemon zest, juice and nutmeg and, when cool, mix in the beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper.

Clear the bench so you can lay four sheets of filo end-over-end, overlapping each by about 5cm. Brush pastry sheets lightly with oil and place another four sheets on top and brush with oil.

Spoon the filling loosely along the near edge of the pastry, leaving a couple of centimetres uncovered at either end. Fold the ends in to enclose the filling and gently and loosely roll the pastry into a long sausage shape. I find it easier with two pairs of hands. Form into a loose spiral around 20cm diameter. Don’t worry about small cracks or splits.

Slip onto a greased baking tray. Brush with beaten egg if using, or a little oil, scatter with seeds and bake for 40–45 mins or until golden brown. Serve hot.

Tip: It’s easier to roll and shape if you keep the filling a little bit loose. You can use the mixture for filo parcels if you prefer.

Source: Sophie Grey | destitutegourmet.com

Songs for the Road

Worship | St Tom’s Church | Listen on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Bandcamp

Songs for the Road is a small worship album that overflows with a sense of God’s closeness and comfort. Released in December 2024, by St Tom’s Anglican Church in Newtown, Wellington, the seven songs include violin and some striking choral moments, and features my husband as the keyboardist (nice one Danyon!). There are some beautiful songs, and I personally really like ‘You Speak’ and ‘Eleven Eleven’, which are based on Hosea 11 and speak of God calling his children back to him. For a half-hour of worship that is both peaceful and joyful, I highly recommend having a listen. (Reviewed by Holly Morton-Chong)

He Tatau Pounamu | The Treaty of Waitangi: A Covenant of Reconciliation

Theology/Social issues | Alistair Reese | Karuwhā Trust and Venn Foundation

Dr Alistair Reese is a Pākehā theologian and historian, as well as a farmer in the Bay of Plenty. Reese is passionate about social reconciliation and seeks to strengthen the relationship between Māori and Pākehā. Reese affirms that the Treaty of Waitangi is a covenant of reconciliation. This descriptor elevates the Treaty from a focus on rights to relationship and calls the Church to ‘an ethic of love’. Using Ephesians 2:14 as a framework, Reese affirms that like Jews and Gentiles who became one nation through covenantal union in Christ while still maintaining their original identities, the Treaty invites us into unity as we celebrate diversity. A must-read! (Reviewed by Jules Badger)

You can get excited about the future. The past won’t mind.

HILLARY D e PIANO, PLAYWRIGHT AND AUTHOR

WORD OF THE MONTH

Noho tahi

(Māori, verb) Reconciliation.

Source: Te Aka Dictionary

Lisa Carrington Chases a Champion

Children’s book | Lisa Carrington | Huia Publishers

Lisa Carrington Chases a Champion tells the story of an eight-year-old Lisa, who is determined to take part in a major surf competition. Inspired by a top paddler named Māia, Lisa embarks on a rigorous training schedule. However, when her canoe capsizes, her confidence is shaken, and she briefly contemplates withdrawing from the competition. With the support of her whānau (family) and her dog Colin, Lisa rebuilds her self-belief and competes on the big day. An engaging and motivational picture book from New Zealand’s most successful Olympian that reminds children and adults alike, ‘You can do this’ and ‘Your best is good enough’. A Māori language edition, titled Ko Lisa Carrington me te Toa Whakaihuwaka is also available. (Reviewed by Kelly Cooper)

Book Giveaway

We have one copy of Lisa Carrington Chases a Champion, and one copy of Ko Lisa Carrington me te Toa Whakaihuwaka to give away. To enter the draw, email us before 1 March, stating your preference, at salt@salvationarmy.org.nz.

INTERNATIONAL PRAYER

Indigenous rights are crucial for fostering a just and equitable world. The UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples is a comprehensive international human rights document. It covers a broad range of rights and freedoms, including the right to self-determination, culture and identity, and rights to education, economic development, religious customs, health and language. Internationally, The Salvation Army recognises and upholds indigenous rights and works to address historical injustices and ongoing discrimination. By supporting indigenous rights, we contribute to a more inclusive society that values diversity and respects the dignity of all its members.

• Protection of land and resources: Pray for the safeguarding of indigenous lands and natural resources from exploitation and environmental degradation. Ask for wisdom and strength for indigenous leaders as they advocate for their rights and stewardship of their ancestral territories.

• Cultural preservation: Pray for the preservation and revitalisation of indigenous languages, traditions and cultural practices. Seek support for educational programmes and initiatives that honour and sustain indigenous heritage.

• Health and wellbeing: Pray for improved access to healthcare, clean water and nutritious food for indigenous communities. Ask for healing and resilience for those affected by historical and ongoing injustices.

• Legal recognition and justice: Pray for the recognition and enforcement of indigenous rights in national and international laws. Seek justice for past and present wrongs, and for fair representation and participation in decision-making processes.

• Unity and solidarity: Pray for unity among indigenous peoples and solidarity from the global community. Ask for increased awareness, understanding and support for indigenous struggles and achievements, fostering a world where their rights are respected and upheld.

FOUNDATIONS OF YOUTH WORK

Each year, the Next Gen team provide a Salvation Army-acknowledged, entry-level certificate called Foundations of Youth Work. Over 2025, Next Gen will host four sessions looking at the basics of youth work—providing space for leaders working with rangatahi (youth) to better their practice. There are currently 15 youth leaders and volunteers signed up to complete the course from March to November.

Supported by coaches who meet with them at least four times throughout the year, students will widen their perspectives, delve in to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and learn small group facilitation skills.

The Next Gen team would love to have your support through prayer as they lead these sessions and build up developing leaders in the territory!

INTRIGUING INDEX

Getting the Scoop

1 The origins of ice cream date back to the sixth century BC. While no specific date or person is credited with its invention, we do know that in the fourth century BC, Alexander the Great enjoyed snow and ice flavoured with honey and nectar.

2 By 54 AD, Roman Emperor Nero Claudius Caesar is recorded as frequently sending runners into the mountains for ice and snow which he ate with fruit and juices.

3 British king Charles I had a particular proclivity for ‘cream ice’ which appeared often at his table throughout the 1700s.

4 The first official record of ice cream appeared in an American letter dated 1740, and by 1777 the first ad for ice cream appeared in the New York Gazette. In 1896, the invention of the ice cream cone was credited to Italo Marchiony, and soon afterwards in 1897, Alfred Cralle patented the ice cream scoop.

5 In the 1890s, religious leaders criticised the eating of sinfully delicious ice cream on Sundays, resulting in the creation of the ‘ice cream Sunday’, later changed to ‘sundae’.

The General’s New Year Message

My dear Salvationist friends, Happy New Year! Grace and peace to each of you from God our Father through Jesus Christ our Lord.

As we begin 2025, I am very excited to see how the Lord will use Compass, the Global Strategic Framework, across the world. With its intentional focus on people, mission and legacy, I believe that the Lord will enable us to accomplish great things in his name as we commit to being his disciples and get on with the business of the mission entrusted to our care. We all have a part to play.

This year also marks 160 years since our Founders, Catherine and William Booth, commenced the work of The Salvation Army. What a heritage they have left us. The proclamation of the gospel, the pursuit of the holy life and the desire to love and care for our neighbour. As we celebrate 160 years in 2025, let’s determine that we too will leave a legacy that honours God, builds the Kingdom and ensures we pass on a movement worthy of his name and mission.

My prayer for you is that the development of your relationship with Jesus will remain your top priority.

Of course, I have no idea what a new year means for you. Some of you may be launching into the new year full of enthusiasm and expectation. Others may be entering into 2025 with a feeling of trepidation or anxiety because of the circumstances that are your reality.

Whatever your personal situation, choosing to prioritise the Lord and your relationship with him is the best decision you will make in 2025.

My friends, we can trust him. He will not disappoint. When I was a young boy

growing up in The Salvation Army, we used to sing this chorus:

I have a pilot who guides me night and day; through cloud and sunshine I trust him, come what may. Dangers may threaten but I never fear; I’m full of confidence while he is near; I have a pilot who guides me along life’s way.

This is the joy of the Christian experience. This promise that the Lord himself is with us, whatever our circumstances, whatever our opportunities, and he promises to remain faithful to us.

My prayer for you is that the development of your relationship with Jesus will remain your top priority. We need disciples of Jesus. The world needs disciples of Jesus.

As we begin this new year, let me share this promise from Scripture, from Paul’s letter to the Romans:

‘May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit’ (Romans 15:13).

May God bless you.

Lyndon Buckingham General

WATCH ONLINE

You can also watch the General’s New Year Message online at: salvationarmy.org/ ihq/news/030125-generalsnew-year-message

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

SALVATION ARMY PRAYER

Woodville Corps; Aranui Corps; Ashburton Corps; Auckland City Corps; Auckland City Korean Corps; Ba Corps (Fiji); Blenheim Corps; Blue Mountain Adventure Centre; The Salvation Army in Germany, Lithuania and Poland; and The Salvation Army in Italy and Greece.

Commissioning 2024: Champions of the Mission

WORDS Bale Tuinaceva, Jules Badger and Kelly Cooper

Fiji Commissioning of The Champions of the Mission | Tamata qaqa ni vei Qaravi | Jagat Ka Yoddha

After a successful two years of training to become Salvation Army officers, commissioning is a time each year that cadets around the world look forward to. For the Fiji Division’s commissioning, officers, congregation and relatives gathered at the Pacific Theological College and later at the USP Auditorium to witness and celebrate with eight cadets as they signed their covenant under The Salvation Army’s Blood and Fire banner, declaring that they will proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ.

Fiji Officers Councils

There was a traditional welcome for the special guests of Officers Councils, Commissioners Robyn and Wayne Maxwell, the zonal leaders for the South Pacific and East Asia Zone. Those attending expressed their gratitude and thanks to the zonal leaders for making time within their busy schedule to be part of the commissioning of the Champions of the Mission in Fiji.

Officers Councils were a great time of fellowship— listening to inspiring stories, being challenged and encouraged, and taking time to honour and glorify God.

Covenant Day

Covenant Day was a very important and sacred time, as the Champions of the Mission moved into the chapel to sign their covenant with God on Friday 29 November. The covenant binds them to the service of God and his people through The Salvation Army.

Silver Star Family Service

The presentation of silver stars and certificates to the parents of cadets took place at the Peninsula Hotel on Saturday 30 November. Attendees were welcomed by Major Litiana Cola, with a Bible reading given by Major Phillippa Serevi.

Cadet Verenaisi spoke on behalf of the cadets and acknowledged the sacrifice of the parents and families of cadets who chose to enter training as officers of The Salvation Army. Cadet Manasa Natera, who attended the New Zealand-based training of the session, beamed in online for the service and the presentation of the certificate and silver star to his Fiji-based parents by Commissioners Julie and Robyn.

‘It is not the end of the journey, and it’s not the beginning’.

Commissioning and Ordination

A sweet spirit filled the auditorium during the commissioning and ordination of the new lieutenants. The crowd shouted with joy as the cadets marched down with their families to receive their certificates and appointments from Commissioners Julie and Mark Campbell, the territorial leaders. Assistant Training Principal Captain Dale McFarlane shared a message of reassurance to the cadets (now lieutenants). ‘What a long way you have travelled to reach this stage in your journey! It is not the end of the journey, and it’s not the beginning’. A concluding thanksgiving celebration

Clockwise from top: Lt Karen Krishnan; praying for Comrs Mark and Julie Campbell; youth from Sigatkoa Corps; Lts Verenaisi and Semi Drotini; lieutenants and their families; combined youth item.

was held on Sunday 1 December when families and congregation members gathered to witness and praise God for the tremendous work that he has been doing in the Fiji Division and the territory. The celebration ended with a beautiful performance from Fiji Division East youth, presenting a mixed cultural dance of the territory.

The eight members of the Champions of the Mission session in Fiji are Lieutenants Semi and Verenaisi Drotini, Karen Krishnan, Sakeo and Salome Matakaruru, Naomi and Peni Soga, and Sekilini Vasu from the Tonga Region.

Semi and Verenaisi take up an appointment as corps officers at Rakiraki Corps, and Karen has been appointed manager at Suva Family Care Centre and women’s advocate, East. Sakeo and Salome have been appointed as court and correction officer, West and supporter engagement officer, West (additional appointment), and manager at Lautoka Family Care Centre and women’s advocate, West, respectively. Naomi and Peni take up appointments as corps officers at Ba Corps and Sekilini has been appointed as assistant divisional youth and children’s secretary.

Also included in the meeting was a poignant farewell for Commissioners Julie and Mark Campbell, who have returned back to their home territory of Australia.

‘The room buzzed with excitement as graduands were welcomed into the ceremony with clapping and cheering…’

New Zealand Commissioning of The Champions

of the Mission | Ngā Toa o te Mihana

Commissioning weekend commenced on Friday 13 December with a graduation ceremony held at Hutt City Corps. Hosted by Booth College of Mission (BCM), family and friends gathered to celebrate the achievement of the five members of the New Zealand Champions of the Mission session, Ngā Tao o te

Mīhana: Cadets Anna and Manasa Natera, Cadets Ashton and Niko Vaitaki and Cadet Tania Viljoen.

The room buzzed with excitement as graduands were welcomed into the ceremony with clapping and cheering and were each presented with a garland before taking their seats on the stage. Worship music throughout the ceremony was provided by the Porirua City Corps music team.

Disciples keep learning

Commissioner Julie Campbell opened with a karakia (prayer) and this was followed by a welcome from Captain Bryant Richards who reflected on the cadets’ journey of hard work and late nights, emphasising

that while graduation marks the end of their studies, the learning will continue for them in their new appointments. ‘Any dynamic disciple quickly comes to realise that learning is part of discipleship,’ he shared. Graduating cadets received certificates, including the NZ Diploma in Christian Studies (Theology, Level 5), NZ Diploma in Christian Studies (Leadership, Level 6) and the Certificate of Salvation Army Officer Training. Alongside the cadets, Janice Shramka received the NZ Diploma in Christian Studies (Theology, Level 5), and Salvation Army Youth Work LAB apprentice Vilemina Taavao (Manukau Central Corps) received a Certificate in Youth Work Training. Captain Chris Collings received a Graduate Diploma in Theology from Laidlaw College and Captain Grace Duxfield received a Bachelor of Theology, also from Laidlaw College.

Susan Howan, education officer at BCM and dean of studies for the School of Bible and Mission, introduced each graduating cadet, highlighting their unique talents and strengths. Of Cadet Anna, Susan said, ‘Over the past two years, we have witnessed this quiet, godly woman transform into a confident champion of the mission’. Cadet Manasa was described as a ‘veritable magpie, picking up new ideas as they catch his eye’. Cadet Ashton was ‘full of laughter and a questioner with an inquiring mind’. Cadet Niko was described as a ‘deep thinker who has contributed immeasurably to the character and learning of this session. Susan acknowledged that ‘Cadet Tania has known God’s faithfulness, and she has discovered a depth of resilience and personal growth that can only be the work of the Holy Spirit’.

Student reflections

Sessional speaker, Cadet Manasa Natera, spoke candidly and with humour about the adventure of leaving behind the comfort of their homes, family and friends to step into the unknown to answer the call God had placed on their hearts. He described the fear of not knowing and of feeling incapable. He shared, with a chuckle, that during their early days of study, ‘terms like “reflection”, “critical thinking” and “exegetical” sounded more like medical conditions than an assignment. ‘I thought, honestly, God, are you sure I’m in the right place?’

He described moments of tears and doubt but also spoke about the beauty of their collective experience.

From top: Friends and family pray for new lieutenants; Lts Manasa and Anna Natera.

‘We discovered that the calling wasn’t just about achieving a qualification, but about how God was shaping us.’

‘We grew slowly but surely. We pushed through the fear, the challenges and late nights. We discovered that the calling wasn’t just about achieving a qualification, but about how God was shaping us.

‘Today we celebrate not just what we accomplished but the people who helped us get here,’ said Manasa, as he thanked family and friends for their prayers and encouragement and the staff of BCM for their constant support. ‘This isn’t the end. It’s a milestone. The learning, growing and walking in God’s calling continues. What truly matters are the relationships we build and the lives we impact for the kingdom.’ Manasa concluded with this advice: ‘I have learned at BCM this word KISS—Keep It Super Simple. Stay grounded in God, take what you’ve learned and make it count. Not for your glory, but for God’s’.

Janice Shramka spoke on behalf of the graduands from the School of Bible and Mission. She expressed the privilege of studying in her retirement and her commitment to being a lifelong learner. ‘Studying theology has confirmed, extended and deepened my faith,’ she shared. Janice thanked BCM staff for their patience with her numerous questions and comments, concluding with, ‘I am truly blessed to have had the opportunity to study in such a place and I am looking forward to the next four years as I study for the Level 6 diploma.’

Guest speaker, Captain Dr Malcolm Irwin, concluded the speeches by discussing the ‘perfect freedom that comes from being fully seen’. He reminded attendees that our perceptions are often entangled with what we find tolerable. Malcolm challenged the new generation of graduates to maintain the ability ‘to see those who are in front of you’ as they step into their new roles.

Commissioning and ordination

On Saturday 14 December, the Champions of the Mission, Ngā Toa o te Mihana, were ordained, commissioned and appointed. There was standing room only at Hutt

City Corps and the atmosphere in the auditorium was one of expectancy and celebration as the five cadets marched to the stage behind their home corps flags to the rousing sound of the territorial youth band. Cadets were met by Commissioners Julie and Mark Campbell with reciprocated salutes and smiles.

Colonel Gerry Walker opened the service with a greeting in te reo Māori and English, and acknowledged the many friends and family gathered for the special occasion, as well as those watching online from the four nations of the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory. A meaningful time of prayer and worship was led by the inspiring and uplifting leadership of the Porirua music team followed.

Julie then shared a Bible message, speaking from Matthew 28:16–20 on the Great Commission.

‘When you trust him and rely on him and listen to him, he will lead and guide and provide,’ said Julie. ‘It won’t be easy, there will be discouragement and challenges. But Jesus will be with you.’

‘It won’t be easy, there will be discouragement and challenges. But Jesus will be with you.’

In preparation for the solemnity of ordination, the band led the cadets and congregation in the singing of ‘I Surrender’, followed by General Lyndon Buckingham’s message to all members globally of The Champions of the Mission.

Training Principal Captain Chris Collings recommended the cadets for ordination and commissioning as lieutenants of The Salvation Army saying:

‘The Champions of the Mission have tender hearts; they are humble and yet willing to question and also acknowledge when their learning has forced them to change their point of view. They have learnt to join the dots between theory and practice … They know that in and of themselves they do not have what it takes to be Salvation Army officers but that it can be done through the strength of their Lord and Saviour.’

The cadets presented a sessional song titled, ‘We Shall Overcome’, singing in Afrikaans, Tongan, Māori and English—the first languages of the cadets. Cadet Manasa explained that ‘the beauty of the song is that it is our story, and our prayer is that it will become part of your story as well’.

The cadets then made their affirmation of faith by reciting the doctrines of The Salvation Army in a variety of languages. Each cadet was then ordained and commissioned individually by the commissioners. A time of consecratory prayer followed, led by LtColonel Alberth Sarimin.

Appointing and calling

A video message of congratulations from the new Fijian lieutenants of the same session, commissioned two weeks prior, was a special moment in the service. The new officers sang a heartfelt rendition of ‘Take My Life and Let it Be’, followed by a prayer of blessing.

A powerful time in the service was the testimony of Lieutenant Niko Vaitaki, who spoke passionately about God’s transformative work in his life and the clear direction towards full-time ministry as an officer in The Salvation Army. Niko took time to share about his initial fear of study, given English is his second language; the support he received from BCM staff; and Jesus’ call to step out of the boat and walk with him on water throughout his academic journey.

The new lieutenants then received their first appointments: Tania to Ōtāhuhu Corps, the Vaitakis to Wairarapa Corps and the Nateras to Queenstown Corps and Community Ministries.

Territorial Candidates Secretary Captain Shane Healey then presented the three new candidates for 2025 in the Proclaimers of Transformation session: Sara Eglinton (Wellington South Corps) and Bronson and Sharon Blake (Upper Hutt Corps) who were joined on stage by cadets from the Keepers of the Covenant session (second-year cadets).

Shane called people to sing ‘Send the Fire’ as a prayer over the newly commissioned officers, the secondyear cadets and the candidates preparing to head to training college in 2025. The afternoon finished with Te Haka a Te Pōti (I’ll Fight to the End) performed by the new lieutenants and the second-year cadets, as well as various officers and college staff.

Long service awards

During the service, nine officers received their long service awards. Recipients of 25 years of service awards were Lt-Colonel Alberth Sarimin, and Majors Denise and Ken Smith (all from the Faithful Intercessors session). Those receiving awards for 30 years of service were Major Gavin Baxter (God’s Soldiers session) and Major Louise Kennedy (Crusaders for Christ session). Ambassadors for Christ session-mates Lt-Colonel

Clockwise from top: Praying for Comrs Mark and Julie Campbell; BCM graduates; Long service award recipients; Lt Niko Vaitaki.

Jennifer Groves and Major Sue Hay received their awards for 35 years of service, with General Lyndon and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham receiving theirs in absentia. The awards were presented by Captain Bryant Richards who referred to the officers as role models of faithfulness, praying, ‘Thank you God for their surrendered lives in the past, present and also in the future’. A celebration dinner for the award recipients and their families was held that same evening.

Silver Star family service

On Sunday 15 December, following commissioning, the new lieutenants hosted their extended families at BCM for a special in-Sunday. Silver stars and certificates were presented to parents and spiritual mentors during a fun, interactive, family-friendly service. Lieutenant Manasa’s parents had been presented with their silver stars in Fiji during the commissioning of the Fijian officers. Following the service there was a relaxed informal lunch.

Secretary for Retired Officers (with responsibility Silver Star) Lt-Colonel Margaret Bateman reports that, ‘It was wonderful! There were aunties, uncles, children, cousins—everyone important to the cadets was there and the hall was full. It was relaxed and a lot of fun.’

‘…everyone important to the cadets was there and the hall was full. It was relaxed and a lot of fun.’

Territorial leaders farewelled

Colonel Gerry Walker led a time of farewell for Commissioners Julie and Mark, beginning with a whakataukī (Māori proverb) describing their leadership style: ‘Those who lead give sight to those who follow. Those who follow give life to those who lead’.

Captains David and Denise Daly shared some farewell comments, highlighting the Campbells’ genuine care, deep interest in people and their exceptional leadership during the pandemic. ‘While marooned in Sydney, you showed tenacity and stickability and that continued throughout your five years here,’ said David.

Lt Tania Viljoen.

Several video messages were included for Julie and Mark from around the territory, including Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, the Far North, Auckland, Thames, Greymouth, Christchurch, Invercargill and Territorial Headquarters.

A beautiful piece of art with the words ‘He Waka Eka Noa’ was presented by Lt-Colonel Liz Gainsford, who thanked Julie and Mark for their spiritual leadership and commitment to prayer—especially their participation in the 7/7 online territorial prayer meetings.

Julie responded by speaking about their journey with biculturalism and the richness of being part of a territory of four nations. ‘Our eyes have been opened,’ she said. ‘We have discovered so much about how God works through culture—how to worship in other cultures— and we are so grateful to God for that and for you, the people we have met. We have learnt so much and we are going back to Australia very different people.’

Envoy Stewart Irwin (Petone Corps and Governance Board member) called for ‘a cloud of witnesses’ to surround Julie and Mark as he led a meaningful time of prayer and thanksgiving for the Campbells.

Made in the Image of God

Kia ora, bula, tālofa lava, mālō e lelei, It is a joy to greet you as I take up my role as territorial commander for the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory.

It is with gratitude that I thank Commissioners Julie and Mark Campbell for their leadership of this territory over the last five years. They have returned home to Australia. We pray God’s blessing on them.

What a delight to be appointed back to Aotearoa New Zealand. I am a Kiwi by birth and a Salvation Army officer of 38 years. I have had the honour of serving in five different countries but there is something significant and special about being appointed back home.

Many have asked me: ‘What’s the best thing about returning home?’ It’s the people, it’s the people, it’s the people. What a joy to meet many new faces and to reconnect with those I know.

From Psalm 139:13, we read: ‘For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb’. This Scripture reminds us we are made in the image of God. God has made us with our own unique gifts and skills.

Our world can distract us to feel dissatisfied with who we are. We may want to be like someone else, have their gifts, want their opportunities and lifestyle. But God made us each unique. We are made in his image, a masterpiece in progress, and we express that in our own wonderful way.

We have great potential to speak into the lives of each other with affirmation and encouragement. When we call out the best in each other, we hear God’s voice more clearly, and God’s kingdom here on earth is made stronger.

My prayer for this territory and its beautiful nations is that we celebrate who God has made us to be; we encourage one another, celebrate each other, understanding we are made to be connected together. We are better together. I love the thought that we rise by lifting others.

May God’s grace and peace be upon us all, as we work together to serve our territory.

Commissioner Janine Donaldson Territorial Commander

Psalm 139:13–14

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (NIV)

I a koe hoki ōku whatumanawa; nau hoki ahau i hīpoki i roto i te kōpū o tōku whaea. Ka whakawhetai ahau ki a koe; he mea whakawehi, he mea whakamīharo tōku hanganga; he mahi whakamīharo āu mahi, mōhio rawa anō tōku wairua ki tēnā. (PT)

Ni kemuni a bulia na noqu i ivi: Ko ni a ubi au e na kete i tinaqu. Au na vakavinavinaka vei kemuni; ni sa ka rerevaki ka vakurabui na noqu i bulibuli: A ka veivakurabuitaki na nomuni cakacaka: A ka oqo sa kila vakavinaka na yaloqu. (FOV)

He ko koe na‘a ke ngaohi hoku kofuua e, Na‘a ke lalanga au ‘i he fatu o‘eku fa‘e. Te u fakafeta‘i kiate koe; Hono kuo fakangeingei mo fakaofo hoku ngaohi e. Ko ho‘o ngaahi ngaue ko e koto fakaofo pe, Pea ‘oku matu‘aki ‘ilo ia ‘e hoku laumalie. (TWB)

Auā sa ia te oe o‘u manatunatu; na e ufiufi ia te au i le manava o lo‘u tinā. Ou te vivii atu ia te oe, auā na faia a‘u e ala ai ona matautia ma ofo tele ai; o mea na e faia, o mea mamana ia; ua ou matuā iloa e a‘u nei mea. (SOV)

Children Grow Together!

Throughout the latter part of 2024, more than 180 children aged between 7 and 13 years gathered at one of four locations around Aotearoa New Zealand under the banner of The Salvation Army. Camp locations were Ngāruawāhia (Waikato), Forest Lakes (north of Wellington), Christchurch and children’s day event at Alexandra. And, for the first time, a national intermediate camp took place at Blue Mountain Adventure Centre (BMAC) for young people aged 11 to 13 years.

The theme of the camps was Grow— growing in God, growing with others and growing out in love to the world. The events were organised by the national NextGen team of officers and staff who support ministry to children and youth through connecting, equipping, advocating and strategising together.

The young people had heaps of good things to say about their experiences:

‘I liked the bouncy castle and planting the seeds.’

Kane, Ōamaru

‘At the children’s day I enjoyed the bouncy castle and doing the planting. Overall, the children’s day

was very, very fun! I would definitely go again!’

Maia, Alexandra

‘At Kids Camp I enjoyed doing all the different activities that they had prepared for us. This included kapa haka, a bouncy castle/obstacle course and nature walk. I also liked the learning sessions where we got a chance to win prizes and learn about God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit.’

Oscar, Johnsonville

‘Kids Camp was a lot of fun and taught us more about God.’

Ayla, Auckland

‘Kids Camp was an amazing experience. I learnt about God and what Jesus did for us all. There was

Opposite page: top, the camp at Forest Lakes; bottom, rafting at the intermediate camp, Blue Mountain Adventure Centre (BMAC). This page: above left, the Ngāruawāhia camp; above right, a drawing by Ruby from Rolleston who attended the Christchurch camp; below left, the Christchurch camp; below right, the Alexandra day camp.

even a talent show! There were great talents and not so great ones. I made a lot of funny memories and amazing memories. I met a lot of people, also made a new friend.’ Samantha, Tawa

‘My best day ever!’ Jayde, Ōamaru

‘It started after we got there. While we waited, we got to play with Lego, board games, colour in and just

talk. It started at 12.30pm when we had to go and line up to get lunch, which was Subway. I got a footlong and a bag of chips. I sat down and ate with some friends. After we were done, we all gathered in the church. I can’t believe how many people were there! We were all welcomed in, from Mosgiel, Ōamaru, Winton, Queenstown and of course Alexandra Corps—all in one church. First, we all got up to play a group game of paper, scissors, rock. After a long time, the leaders split us up into groups and there were three activities. Our first activity was planting peas! We went outside and gathered around the table to listen to the instructions. So all we had to do was decorate a pot, put dirt in and then the seed. Then we played Captain’s Coming. Next we went back into the church to a survey in how we grow in God—mine was helping others. Finally, it was our turn for the bouncy castle. I probably only went through it a dozen times!

Dinner time! For dinner we had to line up again with plates for pizza! I got cheese, pepperoni and Hawaiian. By the end of the food, I was full. That day was amazing. I would like to thank all of The Salvation Army corps that gathered there for making that day wonderful.’ Georgia, Alexandra

‘Intermediate Camp at BMAC was really fun and enjoyable. I think the white-water rafting was the highlight for most people. It was super fun, and it was something you don’t get to do very often. Jumping off the cliff was awesome. Once I had done it the first time, I couldn’t wait to do it again. The bushcraft was a really cool experience, and I learned how to keep a fire going in the forest. The campfire night was so much fun, and the marshmallows tasted really good. The glow worms on the last night were spectacular and it really gave me time to think about God’s amazing creation. It was really great to meet new friends, see old friends and spend time with our groups that we came with. Camp was so much fun and I can’t wait to do it again.’

Olivia, Whanganui

A New Life; A Better Life

Renee Johnson has a whole new life in beautiful Kaitaia. A former meth addict, Renee has been clean for five years, is in full-time work and is now a study scholarship recipient— and she’s not looking back!

I whakapapa back to Ngāpuhi and a little place called Whirinaki in the Hokianga. On my Pākehā side I’m from Newcastle, England. I grew up in Glen Eden (West Auckland) and my family were members of the King Cobras gang. Substance abuse and violence were all part of my childhood—like the movie Once Were Warriors. When I was 13 years old, my grandparents came and took me to live with them. That’s when I learned what love felt like.

When I was 15, my boyfriend and I were attacked in the Waitākere Ranges—I was stabbed in the throat. I was found by a pig hunter who stitched me up there and then. I have a pretty rough scar, but he saved my life. He carried me out of the bush and took me to the hospital. I survived, but my boyfriend died. That was my first experience of deep loss.

Then when I was 21, I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. I had treatment, but it returned when I was 24. I had an ovary removed and was told I wouldn’t be able to have children. However, my new partner and I had a beautiful son together named Rasta.

I wanted to give Rasta everything I never had, and the only way I knew how to make money was selling drugs. I had a lot of powerful connections because of my family, so I ran one of the biggest methamphetamine houses in West Auckland. At the time I was what you call a high functioning addict. As far as I know, Rasta had never seen a meth pipe and he never missed a day of school and was always dressed well. I went to all the zoo trips and was involved in his school life. But then my partner

started cheating on me, stealing money and meth from me. He denied everything and tried to make me think I was going crazy.

Things escalated and I knew that I had to give up meth for Rasta’s sake. I went cold turkey for six weeks, but I was clueless about recovery and soon picked up meth again. I was caught driving while disqualified and charged. When I went to court, I failed the drug test. Rasta was taken from me.

A turning point

I’d heard about the Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment Court (AODTC) or drug court. And while I didn’t technically have a drug charge, I was honest about my addiction because I knew the drug court could help me get my son back.

They accepted me onto the programme but I was still in active addiction. So when I relapsed I was sent to jail. My release was conditional on going to a treatment facility, so I went to The Salvation Army Bridge in Auckland. I loved every minute of being there and worked hard on my recovery. When I finished the eight-week programme, I was at every graduation ceremony for AODTC. I did a lot of volunteer work for various recovery groups—including the Bridge. I had lived experience of addiction and recovery and became a role model for my peers. It was like a role reversal for me!

Building a new life

I’ve been clean for five years now, and I have a new partner, Gary, who is four years clean. We are working

When I was 15, my boyfriend and I were attacked in the Waitākere Ranges—I was stabbed in the throat.

hard to ensure that generational trauma doesn’t flow through us to our kids. We have a blended family of four and are now in IVF trying for a baby together. I feel like I’ve got a whole new life—one that I’m worthy of living. Sometimes I struggle to come to terms with this new life, but they say you do the mahi (work), you get the treats! I try to stay steadfast in what I believe in and to hold on to my values and morals and ethics and not to get swayed by anybody.

We moved to Kaitaia four years ago and haven’t looked back. I work for The Salvation Army Bridge as a receptionist. I knew I wanted to be around recovery, so I thought what better way to stay immersed than to work for the group that got me clean?

...I didn’t think I was good enough to do that—people from gangster families don’t have things like degrees and scholarships.

Going from strength to strength

My boss was the one who inspired me to study. I told her that I left school when I was 13, so I didn’t think I was good enough to do that—people from gangster families don’t have things like degrees and scholarships. But she said, ‘You’re good enough, you’re bright enough and you know more than you think’. I’m doing Level 7 counselling, and I got 87 percent overall for the first semester! I applied for the Addiction, Supportive Housing and Reintegration Services (ASARS) scholarship, and when I was chosen I thought well if that’s not God’s way of telling me, then I don’t know what is!

During my recovery I prayed to God for strength, and it came. I believe Jesus is not just my higher power—he’s so much more. I used to think God was mean and didn’t love me because of the life I lived.

I never understood that I could have a relationship with God. His love is not dependent on when I need him, and mine shouldn’t be, either. If I am going to have a relationship with God, it must be an honest one.

I go to Kaitaia Corps, and in November we had our first Recovery Church! I want to thank my partner Gary and my mum. Gary has been such a great support and he treats my son as his own. I never thought I would get that with another person, but my son calls him Dad and they have a wonderful relationship. I’m also very grateful to my mother for looking after Rasta when I couldn’t. And I thank The Salvation Army Bridge for helping me get clean and giving me the kind of life I never knew I could have. A new life; a better life.

Below: Renee (right) with Lt-Colonel Lynette Hutson.

Ministry and Outreach to the East Coast Community

The aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle on the Tūranganui-a-Kiwa Gisborne district was devastating. SALT reports on the response to this from the Gisborne Corps (church) and their great team of volunteers.

WORDS Tracey Cooper

s Ken Maurirere (Ngāti Ira, Kaiputahi) pulls the car up outside the Four Square in Ruatōria on a sunny Tuesday afternoon, there’s a half dozen kaumatua and kuia (Māori elders) sitting outside singing a few hymns and waiata.

They’re from a range of faiths—including Te Ope Whakaora The Salvation Army—and give up their time to help uplift whānau (families) still struggling after the devastation caused by Cyclone Gabrielle nearly two years ago, in February 2023.

On the benches beside them there are a few banana boxes with an assortment of donated clothes, shoes, books and household items, and their smiles and voices can’t help but lift the spirits of anyone passing by.

After a brief kōrero (chat) and catch-up, Ken unloads a pile of kai (food) parcels, is reminded to pick up the flag that got left behind on his last visit, hops in the car and begins the 125km trek back down State Highway 35 to Tūranganui-a-Kiwa (Gisborne).

It’s a trip Ken’s been taking every two weeks for the past three months—although the outreach has been happening for two years—in his volunteer mahi (work) with Gisborne Corps, and he says it’s simply about showing the people who live

in remote communities on the East Coast that they have not been forgotten.

‘Realistically, what I’m doing is not even making a dent, but what it is doing is showing that someone outside of here cares,’ he says.

‘I don’t see myself as trying to help people from starving. I’m seeing myself as, really, being the face of The Salvation Army and just showing care, showing someone cares.’

‘It’s a win-win because I feel blessed having this opportunity to take the gospel of love and grace to my whanaunga (family connections)…’

He says when he first started making the trip, people wanted to know what he was doing and why.

‘Initially I was greeted with suspicion, understandably; but of course, once the kōrero about the Sallies comes out then it brings ease to people,’ he says. ‘It’s a win-

win because I feel blessed having this opportunity to take the gospel of love and grace to my whanaunga (family connections) and I’m just happy being out in the community.’

Coming home

Ken was born at Tokamaru Bay and grew up in Te Araroa, so he is a true coastie, and, after many years away, returned to the region and found a home at Te Ope Whakaora, along with his wife, Tracey.

‘We’ve been Christians for a long time. But just never felt at home anywhere,’ he says.

Friends suggested they check out The Salvation Army where, Ken says, they witnessed something quite unique.

‘What caught our attention was we saw something we’d never seen before. Because we all know that the pastor or the shepherd protects his pulpit, you can’t just walk into any church and say give me the mic. Well, when we walked into The Salvation Army, Peter [church leader] held out the mic and said, “Whānau, if there’s anything you want to share, here you go”, and then he goes and sits down.

Above: Ken Maurirere.

‘I knew straight away that either he’s a crazy man or that’s a very secure man. So that caught our attention, and we decided to join. Getting to know Peter and Jenny, we can see our hearts are going the same way. Peter, he’s got a heart for the people.’

Captain Peter Koia (Ngāti Porou) and his wife Captain Jenny Ratana-Koia (Tuhoe), have been corps officers in Gisborne for nearly three years, and in that time have helped build a following through simply being there and, making space for people, especially in their time of need, which was never more evident than when Cyclone Gabrielle struck.

‘When we first got here, and being post-Covid-19, there were few people attending,’ Peter says. ‘Now we can hit more than 75 on a Sunday morning and at nights we get about 35.’

Aftermath of disaster

In the immediate aftermath of Gabrielle, Peter says they spent weeks feeding as many people as they could, because kai was the number one necessity.

‘I saw kuia and koroua (the elderly) and they were saying, “I just want kai”. They had no pūtea (money) because they couldn’t get to the [money] machines, that broke my heart. The last straw was when they closed the supermarket because there were too many people arguing over kai. So I said to the team, “open it up” and we straight away started cooking meals. We cleaned out our foodbank, and I don’t know how much money we lost but it wasn’t about the money, it is making sure people got kai.’

His team of dedicated kaimahi (workers) and volunteers kept cooking and supplying food parcels for about 12 weeks before Peter began to think about those outside of the immediate Gisborne area.

‘I kept saying it was all right here, but what about our whānau up the coast?’

So they loaded a trailer and hit the road with kai parcels for whoever needed them.

Team work and outreach

‘We were often encouraged by the volunteers, who would willingly take up trailer loads of kai, hygiene

From top: Sandra Chase and Ereti Tu Maro from Gisborne Corps; Captains Jenny Ratana-Koia and Peter Koia, corps officers in Gisborne.

Peter takes no credit for the work his team has put in, instead heaping praise on his staff and volunteers.

items and clothes to hard to reach areas. We just dropped kai off to whānau and kept doing it for as long as we could. But we did our bit and that’s to help get people into the right place, and we continue to do that today.’

Peter takes no credit for the work his team has put in, instead heaping praise on his staff and volunteers.

‘I just fan the flame. My philosophy is don’t tell me, show me, and all these people have shown me. They go out and they do what they do, they’re organising themselves. I just say, “What do you need?” My job is to create the space so they can be all that God has asked them to be, and you know they serve and that’s all they want to do.’

He’s now set his sights on establishing an outreach in Wairoa in the wake of serious flooding in the town in June last year.

‘It’s the same sort of thing we’ve been doing in Ruatōria, just to keep helping our people. We’ve made a commitment to be there as long as we’re allowed to be there.’

They initially took a trailer load of goods to Wairoa and distributed everything they had to people in need.

‘I’ve never seen that before from an outreach,’ he says. ‘Everything went. Normally you come back with a lot of clothing, but obviously the need is great there because people just grabbed what they needed, so it’s been amazing.’

And while their work is serving a great social need, Ken says there’s always an underlying message of hope and love, and it’s important for people to understand that Te Ope Whakaora is not just a social service, but has a greater mission.

Foundations of faith

‘Our founders’ desire was for us to preach the gospel, to share the gospel, so that’s the kaupapa (principle) of everything we do. I guess in Wairoa we’re at the stage of building a presence and connecting with locals, but the eventual goal is to create a Christian community then share the gospel.’

Along with his outreach mahi, Ken and Tracey also host Sunday services in the old Te Puia Springs pub, and the key theme is always about promoting the love of God. They regularly attract around 20 people to their service. Ken says some have gone to great lengths to attend.

‘There was a 70-year-old lady that had to walk across the river to get to church. She walked across the river from her house to one of the local whānau that had a vehicle, and they brought her to church.

‘There was a 70-year-old lady that had to walk across the river to get to church.’

‘So for the people that come, we want the message to be that God loves you. You don’t have to sign up to The Salvation Army, but of course if they want to we don’t have any problems with that. Even in Gisborne, when you go into The Salvation Army, even though you see the officers with the uniform on and everything, when the people are speaking from the front the promotion is the love of God.’

Unusually, Peter often tells his team not to come to church. ‘I tell people to stay away but they keep coming. I said if you come, you come to serve, you don’t come to sit, you’ve come to serve the people out there. And I always point out when I’m preaching that it’s out there, not in here, where the work gets done. This is where we come and freshen up and then get back into it, you know. Come in, get what you need and go and serve the people. And it works.’

In memory of the Christchurch earthquakes 2010–2011

if i had to sing

WORDS Hinemoana Baker

I have no idea what to call this rebirth and yet I’m here to name it to feed the new flame

with wood from the old. Language is a flute, a lily, a chair overbalancing, a church we teeter on the threshold of. There are places where they harvest water from the air–drink fog from a glass then overnight hang the rag back on the bayonet.

Does a thing which is reborn need to have died?

All those cities still live in my mirrors, they rise and fall again with the sun’s rounds, the way the planet carves its own seismic trench in the solar system. The spring charges and recharges its river system while on the columns of our lives press unimaginable stresses.

Hold me up now, as I do you. Sing, and steady me under your strong, sure feet.

Hinemoana Baker (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Toa, and Te Āti Awa the North Island) is a well-known Aotearoa New Zealand poet.

A Covenant of Love

The Hebrew word for ‘covenant’ is ‘berit’, and it is used over 300 times in the Old Testament. Scholars agree that at the most elemental level, a biblical covenant formalises a relationship and seeks to protect that relationship over and above the self-interest of either party. In other words, a covenant is about the mutual benefit of both parties and anticipates a shared future. Jules Badger explores the covenants committed to by The Salvation Army.

The Old Testament is peppered with the making, breaking and renewal of covenants. We know that God takes covenants seriously, and yet he seems consistently unsurprised that we mere humans frequently make a mess of keeping our promises. Throughout Scripture, God’s response to covenant breaking, by and large, is grief and patience, but when repentance is sincere God extends his amazing grace and draws his people back into a loving embrace.

Why? Because covenants are first and foremost about relationships.

Throughout Scripture, God’s response to covenant breaking, by and large, is grief and patience...

Mutual benefit

The Old Testament records covenants between God and people and people with other people; in the New Testament, the Greek word for ‘covenant’ is ‘diathēkē’ and refers

exclusively to God’s covenant with us, and specifically the renewal of covenant through the person and work of Jesus. The new covenant in Jesus Christ confirms and fulfils God’s existing covenant with Israel and extends the relationship to all of humanity (Ephesians 2:15).

Theologian Hamish MacLean explains this beautifully:

‘Protecting the relationship rather than self-interest is epitomised in God’s gracious, costly, selfgiving in Christ to reconcile the relationship with humanity despite its unfaithfulness … The covenant in the New Testament remains profoundly sacred or spiritual. This characteristic is enhanced as Jesus participates in the covenant relationship on behalf of humanity and gifts the Spirit to indwell believers and draw them to God.’

Covenants of grace

Covenants play a key and specific role in the life of The Salvation Army, with both soldiers and officers signing sacred covenants—and renewing them regularly. Often Salvation Army covenants are described as ‘covenants of grace’, emphasising the relational context of covenant making and their uniquely sacred nature.

In his 2023 paper, ‘Understanding Te Tiriti o Waitangi as a Covenant Relationship’, Hamish MacLean affirms that while te Tiriti is often described as Aotearoa New Zealand’s founding document, many Māori describe it as a covenant. This strongly reflects the influence of the Christian gospel and the involvement of the Church in the genesis of te Tiriti. Dame Cindy Kiro (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Kahu and British descent), the Governor-General of Aotearoa New Zealand, referred to Te Tiriti

as a ‘sacred covenant’ in her 2022 Waitangi Day speech, affirming this belief.

In 2023, The Salvation Army’s Governance Board signed a kawenata (covenant) with members of its newly formed Rūnanga. By embedding shared authority with Māori into the structure of the movement and upholding the promises of te Tiriti o Waitangi, The Salvation Army has an opportunity to model what shared authority can look like when it is rooted in covenantal relationship, founded on the good news of Jesus Christ and built on trust and confidence between God’s people.

The Salvation Army has an opportunity to model what shared authority can look like...

Partners in the gospel

Commissioner Mark Campbell, the territorial leader at the time of signing the kawenata, said, ‘The Bible shows us that the early Church worked together as partners in the gospel—no church was greater than another. Similarly, the Rūnunga and the Governance Board are intrinsically connected with one another as partners in the gospel first and foremost. The kawenata relationship between the Rūnunga and the Governance Board is now cemented—we are one in Christ.’

National Director of the New Zealand Church Network and Senior Researcher at Laidlaw College Dr Stuart Lange echoes Mark when he explains:

‘We need to remember that spiritually, in Christ, there is “neither Jew nor Greek”, Māori nor Pākehā, nor anyone else: despite our ethnic and cultural distinctives—which are to be respected and treasured, not devalued or erased—those who belong to Christ can have a transcending unity in the Spirit of Christ … Of all people, Christians must always be on the side of justice, truthfulness, respect, generosity and reconciliation.’

As a movement steeped in covenant making and covenant keeping, The Salvation Army’s desire to uphold te Tiriti and the intentions and hopes of those who signed it is no surprise. Along with 400 other church leaders, last year our territorial leaders signed a letter to members of parliament penned by Common Grace Aotearoa—a growing movement of individuals, churches and communities pursuing Jesus and justice together for the flourishing of all people and all creation. The statement from church leaders states:

‘As followers of Jesus, and as people of the Treaty, we affirm Te Tiriti o Waitangi as the sacred promise of right relationship between tangata whenua (people of the land) and tangata tiriti (people of the treaty). We believe te Tiriti to be a covenant between peoples, a living taonga (treasure) that gives us a place in this land … As Christians we believe God takes covenants seriously and that we are likewise called to honour our promises. We lament the ways in which our own churches have been complicit in breaching te Tiriti and dispossessing tangata whenua of their land. We strive

to do better today. We believe that when te Tiriti is honoured, all peoples living in Aotearoa can flourish together.’

‘We lament the ways in which our own Churches have been complicit in breaching Te Tiriti and dispossessing tangata whenua of their land.’

Honouring te Tiriti

‘Kia whakatōmuri te haere whakamua: I walk backwards into the future with my eyes fixed on my past’. Chief Secretary of The Salvation Army Colonel Gerry Walker quotes this whakataukī (Māori proverb), explaining that it speaks to the belief that time is one continuous process or moment. A Māori worldview holds the past, present and future together, with tīpuna (ancestors) ever-present. Gerry reminds us that ‘this is what we believe about the nature of God— timeless, eternal—and that all of history and the future exists in the heart of God.’

When te Tiriti was signed on 6 February 1840, the Church was present alongside the Crown and Rangatira. As God’s people, we are invited to honour te Tiriti as a sacred covenant—an enduring relationship not fixed by time but existing eternally—that actively works towards the envisaged shared future where everyone flourishes. May it be so.

A Foundation for Community

The Hinemoa Housing Community in Levin is The Salvation Army’s newest social housing complex, which was opened with a ceremony on 12 December 2024. The units are not just a roof over people’s heads, they are a foundation from which to grow and thrive. Ben Mack reports.

Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Christopher Luxon attended the official opening, joined by MP for Ōtaki Tim Costley and Salvation Army leadership. Proceedings began with a pōwhiri (welcome ceremony) from Muaūpoko iwi and was followed by karakia (prayer) and speeches.

The opening followed completion of the final 26 units that were part of phase 2 of construction, with the first 26 units and community centre opening last February. The 52 fully furnished units are for individuals and families.

The housing complex was built and is owned by local developer and Salvation Army church members Wayne and Bridget Bishop. It was built on time and under budget, and is being leased by The Salvation Army for 15 years.

Creating a home

Tenants in the new community are from a variety of backgrounds, but all have come from the Ministry of Social

Development’s Housing Register. Tenants were referred to The Salvation Army from social service providers and local iwi.

The Salvation Army‘s Territorial Commander Commissioner Mark Campbell said in his speech that the community is meant to be a place where people and their whānau (families) can live their best lives.

‘We want people to flourish. That would be our prayer.’ His korero was a preview of things to come.

‘It’s not just housing we’re building here, we’re building community,’ the Prime Minister said during his speech. ‘We want people to flourish.’

The Prime Minister also spoke of the opportunities of working with charities like The Salvation Army stating, ‘I know the hard work The Salvation Army does’.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the housing crisis in New Zealand and said, ‘We’re the size of Great Britain or Japan,

Above (from left): Wayne Bishop—developer and owner of the Hinemoa Housing Community, Megan Cleverly—resident in the housing community, Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Christopher Luxon, Greg Foster—The Salvation Army Territorial Director of Social Housing and Property.

but don’t have good housing supply. New Zealand takes 19 months to build a three-bed house, at 50 percent more cost than Australia.

‘If you can’t own a house, you rent. If you can’t rent, you’re in emergency housing. If you can’t get into emergency housing, you’re homeless,’ he said.

Collaboring for community

Salvation Army Territorial Director of Social Housing and Property Greg Foster said working collaboratively with government and private business can help create better housing outcomes across Aotearoa.

‘This place is for our babies—because we want them to be our next prime ministers, doctors and lawyers.’

‘The common thing that’s linked us together is people wanting to give people a home,’ he said.

There’s a high need for housing across the motu (land), including in the regions. There were 21,957 applicants on the Housing Register nationwide in September 2024. Of those, 10,443 were Māori—the highest of any group. Many Hinemoa Housing Community residents are Māori, though many ethnic groups are represented. In the Horowhenua District where Levin is located, the 186 people on the Housing Register in September 2024 is a nearly 60 percent increase on the number of people on the Housing Register in the district prepandemic (108 in September 2019).

But Greg is hopeful for a brighter future—a future The Salvation Army, government and others can help bring about with developments like the Hinemoa Housing Community.

‘For the whānau that are here, what a great foundation for going forward. Some of you have already created a wonderful home here,’ Greg said.

Salvation Army National Tenancy Operations Manager Jasmine Herewini elaborated on just what a great foundation can mean for residents, their whānau and their pēpi (babies).

‘This place is for our babies—because we want them to be our next prime ministers, doctors and lawyers.’

Greeting the tenants

After the speeches, Levin church leader Captain Ben Schischka blessed a shared lunch provided at the community centre, which residents and visitors enjoyed. This was followed by tours of some of the new units.

‘We want people to flourish. That would be our prayer.’

The Prime Minister chatted with residents—including Poppops, a feathery white cockatiel who (according to owner Megan Cleverly) is still learning to talk. But Megan was happy sharing how thankful she and her bird are to have a warm, dry, safe home.

Another tenant, John Logologo, invited the Prime Minister into the home he shares with his children to proudly show off the unit.

A common comment from visitors at the opening was the positive energy and how residents seemed genuinely happy to have stable and safe housing.

‘We just want people in houses,’ said the Prime Minister. ‘I know it’s been a tough time in recent years. But this is a great country, and we can work together.’

Commenting on the complex, the Prime Minister said, ‘This is a fantastic place. We say to residents here, “welcome home”.’

Above: Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Christopher Luxon (right) meeting residents of the Hinemoa Housing Community; left: Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Christopher Luxon encourages Poppops the cockatiel to find his voice (left is resident Megan Cleverly).

New Chapter for Wairarapa

On Saturday 9 November 2024, the new Wairarapa Corps (church) building located at 132 Ngaumutawa Road, Masterton, was formally opened by Territorial Leaders Commissioners Julie and Mark Campbell. On the following day, a celebration service was held in the beautiful new worship space. The new Wairarapa Corps’ name designation brings together the former Carterton Corps and Masterton Corps Plant under one Salvation Army umbrella. Major Margaret Ousey affirms that ‘corps folk are excited about the opportunities ahead and there are lots of thoughts and ideas about what could be done to grow the work here. People are excited about the future, which is wonderful.’