A heads up on details for the upcoming online Territorial Prayer Summit in November.
8 Tūrangawaewae | The Māori Space
An up-close and personal look at the mahi of The Salvation Army Rotorua and how they intentionally make space for Māori.
12 Seen, Heard, Included
A report on this year’s MORE Conference for Next Gen (youth and children’s) leaders from across the territory—New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa.
16 Time to Tackle Te Reo
An interview with one of The Salvation Army’s champions for te reo, Pipiwharauroa Campbell, who is pou ahurea (national Māori lead) for ASARS.
20 A Resilient Faith
Major Perry Bray shares candidly about his battle with rare auto-immune disease scleroderma, and how it has changed his life.
28 Just Brass Celebrations
Christchurch City Corps celebrates ten years of its very successful and life-changing brass band programme for children and young people.
SALT Magazine
The Salvation Army New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory
Territorial Leaders
Commissioners Julie and Mark Campbell
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 Subscriptions mailorder@salvationarmy.org.nz Print Management MakeReady
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.
Creating with Words
f you have lived or visited overseas, you may have found that people’s reaction to the uniqueness of Aotearoa New Zealand’s culture is one of appreciation and curiosity. The reason for this is often people’s knowledge of the haka or a travel blog or clip where Māoritanga (culture and practices) is introduced. The beauty and uniqueness of our bicultural expression is weighted towards Māoritanga and the richness it brings to our nation in its tikanga (values) and reo (language).
In this edition of SALT, we celebrate Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week). On page 16, you can read how Pipiwharauroa Campbell, national Māori lead for Addictions, Supportive Housing and Reintegration Services (ASARS), is encouraging us in Te Ope Whakaora (The Salvation Army) to integrate te reo in our everyday language and interactions.
I would also recommend reading the story on page 8 about ministry with a focus on integrating Māori tikanga at Rotorua Corps and Community Ministries, as they adapt their practices to ensure they are serving their community in a life-affirming and empowering way.
The Bible has a lot to say about language and words. In Genesis 1:1, as God speaks the first
26 verses of creation, it reads: ‘And God said...’ Again, in Hebrews 11:3 we read: ‘By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible’. If we extrapolate this out, our whole existence is created and founded on words. Words are a creative force— let us use them for good.
In our territory, te reo Māori is one of New Zealand’s three official languages, alongside English and New Zealand Sign Language (see page 34, In Fiji, they are English, Fijian and Fiji Hindi; in Tonga, they are Tongan and English; in Samoa, they are Samoan and English. Each nation should value and prioritise its indigenous languages. Here in Aotearoa, we have the opportunity to integrate te reo into our conversations and other forms of communication. Why not start this month, as we celebrate Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week).
Vivienne Hill Editor
Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. PSALMS 19:14
QUICK QUIZ
1 Which two letters are worth 10 points in the game Scrabble?
2 What is the world’s largest island?
3 ‘If it weren’t for you meddling kids,’ is a line from which cartoon?
4 What is the chemical symbol for potassium?
5 What does VHS stand for?
Answers page 32
What’s On?
North Island Youth Camps
13–15 September
WORD OF THE MONTH
Kurapae (Māori,
noun)
Treasure found accidentally.
Source: māoridictionary.co.nz
Year 9 to 20-yearolds, Christian Youth Camp, Ngāruawāhia; and El Rancho, Waikanae. firezone.co.nz/events
Taupō Corps 50th Anniversary Celebration 14–15 September It starts at 12pm Saturday with lunch and a concert, followed by a celebration service on Sunday morning. Email jessica. bezzant@salvationaryarmy.org.nz
Tonga Kids Camp 20–22 September
Intermediates Camp
27–29 September Year 7–8, Blue Mountain Adventure Centre, Raurimu. firezone.co.nz/events
Save the Date Kingdom Conference 4–6 October Palmerston North Corps.
Napier Corps 140th Anniversary 12–13 October
Territorial Prayer Summit 8–9 November Email candy.hull@salvationarmy. org.nz for more information. Check out our full event calendar at salvationarmy.org.nz/events
Territorial Prayer Summit: Strong Foundations, Growing in Faith
‘Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong’ Ephesians 3:17b, NLT.
We know that prayer is foundational to all that we do as God’s people and would like to invite anyone connected with The Salvation Army to the 2024 Territorial Prayer Summit. The summit will be delivered online and take place on 8–9 November. Participants are encouraged to gather in groups to access prayer segments, experience prayer exercises and take part in prayer walks and activities in their local communities. Options for individual participants will also be available. More information to come. Let us pray for God’s richest blessings for this event.
Pray for the planning and preparation for this event, the care, protection, wisdom and peace of event organisers. Ask for blessings over this event, that it may be impactful and fruitful.
Pray for promotion of this prayer summit, that those who need to know about it will have the opportunity to participate and will tell others about it.
Pray that participants would experience God’s nearness for the duration of the summit. Ask that this event be a time of inspiration and growth and drawing closer to God and one another.
Pray for local communities that they would be blessed and transformed by planned prayer walks and community activities.
Pray for technology to run smoothly for all participants. Pray for reliable and affordable internet access and usage for all four nations in our territory.
The Slow Road
Travel | Kirianna and
Lachlan
Poole | Allen & Unwin publishers
If you have plans or dreams of experiencing Aotearoa New Zealand from a caravan, mobile home or a van, then this comprehensive guide to life on the road is the book for you. Packed full of tips, advice, recipes and recommendations, the authors’ lived research takes the angst out of decisionmaking for anyone contemplating an extended tour of the country. From the detailed pre-trip preparations to the best places to camp out, The Slow Road will appeal not only to New Zealandbased readers but tourists hoping to visit our beautiful country. I highly recommend this niche-market read, especially the depiction of the nomadic daily life of a couple and their three children, economically packed into a Kombi and caravan, living their best life.
(Reviewed by Vivienne Hill)
Feel Better
Health and Wellbeing | Charlotte Cummings | Available wherever you listen to podcasts
Charlotte Cummings is on a mission to enhance mental and emotional wellbeing. With over 20 years of counselling experience, her podcast covers a wide array of topics: ‘Bouncing Back from a Bad Day’, ‘Managing Overwhelm’, ‘Guiding a Child Through Anxiety’. Her Kiwi accent and warm engaging manner feel more like chatting over coffee with a supportive friend, rather than listening to a stranger on a podcast. She also incorporates listener questions, which helps create a sense of community and ensures the content is interactive and relatable. If you are seeking practical and effective strategies for managing mental health and fostering healthy interpersonal relationships, this podcast is definitely worth a listen.
(Reviewed by Fay Foster)
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
Young Woman and the Sea
Biographical historic drama | Directed by Joachim Ronning | Stream on Disney+
One hundred years-ago, it was deemed ‘immoral’ for females to be taught how to swim. Based on the true story of Trudy Ederle—the first woman to swim the English Channel—this is a must-see expose of the ridiculousness of sexism and the resilience of women. Set in the 1920s, the fight for the right of women to swim began in America when over 800 women and girls drowned needlessly in a ferry disaster. Despite her husband’s protests, Trudy’s mother ensured her two daughters were taught to swim. Trudy was a natural, and the rest, as they say, is literal history. I loved this film! All the feels! Five stars. (Reviewed by Jules Badger)
SALVATION ARMY PRAYER
Supportive Accommodation; Suva Central Corps; Sydenham Corps; Talasiu Corps; Taranaki Corps; Taupō Corps; Tauranga Corps; Taveuni Corps; The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda Territory; and The Salvation Army in the Carribean Territory.
INTERNATIONAL PRAYER
• Colombia—Many Christians in Colombia are taking great risks to share the gospel in some of the most dangerous places for Christians on earth. Worship, evangelism and travel for pastors is particularly dangerous in Colombia’s ‘red zones’ which are controlled by militant groups. Pray for a decrease in violence that has spiked in the past year and for frontline workers as they share the gospel with unreached groups of people in these red zones.
• Kazakhstan—Formerly under Communist rule as a republic of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan is one of Central Asia’s wealthiest nations because of its vast mineral resources. More than half of Kazakhs are Sunni Muslim. Christians are a persecuted minority. Christian converts are often disowned by their families, publicly shamed and even beaten. Pray for care and protection of Christians who meet in private homes for teaching and worship.
• Mauritania—Located on Africa’s western coast, Mauritania is dominated by poverty and corruption. Slavery still exists within tribal groups, with Christians commonly subservient to the majority Moor people groups. There are currently no Christian churches in Mauritania, following the death of an American missionary in 2009, however, some Christian workers are starting to return to the area. Fewer than 150 believers are known to live in the country. Pray for a stop to the oppression of those who convert to Christianity and for the safety of Christian missionaries in Mauritania.
My father did not tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it.
CLARENCE B KELLAND
MUG-NIFICENT!
INTRIGUING INDEX
Dad Stuff
1 The joke’s on you
The term ‘dad joke’ was first coined in 1987 and has officially become part of our modern culture, appearing in sitcoms, hashtags and memes. While most dad jokes typically provoke audible groaning and eye-rolling from offspring, they do provide opportunities for connection between fathers and their children.
2 Paternal instincts
Marmosets take their roles as fathers very seriously. The typical marmoset dad grooms, feeds and gives piggyback rides to his infant children. Marmoset fathers also act as attentive midwives during the birth of their babies.
3 Top of the pops
The only father–daughter collaboration to hit the top spot on the Billboard pop music chart is the 1967 hit single, ‘Something Stupid’, by Frank and Nancy Sinatra.
4 Gifts of appreciation
The world’s oldest Father’s Day card is a 4000-year-old Babylonian tablet carved by a young boy to wish his father a long life and good health.
5 Roughhousing rituals
Rolling around on the floor, tickling and wrestling with Dad might seem chaotic, but roughhousing fosters a strong bond between parents and children and teaches social skills such as cooperation and communication.
Buttermilk Choc Chip Scones
Acidulated dairy products like buttermilk, sour cream and yogurt give baked goods a very tender crumb. Even when making regular scones I will sour the milk with a squeeze of lemon, but using buttermilk results in a lovely fluffy scone and the chocolate chips—well, when didn’t chocolate make everything better? You can leave them out if you prefer a plain scone. | 35 mins | Makes 12 or more, depending on size
Ingredients
• 3 cups plain flour
• 3 tsp baking powder
• 2 Tbsp caster sugar
• 60g butter, chopped
• 1 ¼ cups buttermilk, store-bought or homemade
• ⅓ cup chocolate chips
Method
Preheat oven to 200°C. Grease and flour a square cake pan or flat cookie sheet. Place flour, baking powder, sugar and butter into a large bowl or processor. Pulse or use fingertips to rub butter into flour until mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
Add buttermilk, choc chips and stir until dough comes together. Place on a lightly floured surface.
Roll out to a 3cm thick rectangle. Cut into 12 scones. Place in prepared pan or onto the tray. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes or until light golden and hollow when tapped on top.
Tips: Handle scone dough as little as possible, they should be light and fluffy; kneading or working the dough activates the gluten in the flour and makes a strong elastic dough, great for bread but not for scones. If you want round scones cut the dough with a cookie cutter.
Source: Sophie Grey | destitutegourmet.com
Volunteer Extraordinaire!
Tawa Family Store volunteer Cyril Bray was recently nominated as Wellingtonian Volunteer of the Year at the Mahi Aroha Awards held on 20th June. At 77 years old, Cyril arrives every day before the store opens, bringing his joy, kindness and sense of humour to the team in Tawa. ‘His work ethic is inspiring to all,’ shares Nicola Tisch, area manager for Wellington North Family Stores. Dubbed ‘Saint Cyril’ by his team members, Cyril is an expert problem solver and a man of many talents. His workday consists of setting up displays, testing electrical equipment, moving furniture, serving at the counter and filling in as store truck driver. ‘I truly do not know how we coped without him,’ says Nicola. ‘He is driven to achieve the best possible results for the Tawa Family Store, and he motivates our team to do similar.’ Congratulations to Cyril on his nomination and thank you for the volunteer contributions that you make.
Below: Michelle Rowe, Cyril Bray, Nicola Tish.
Tūrangawaewae The Māori Space
While Māori make up around 17 percent of Aotearoa’s population, that figure leaps up to 45 percent in Rotorua. The team at Rotorua Salvation Army are intentional, unapologetic and passionate about partnering with God to see tangata whenua (people of the land) thrive and flourish.
WORDS Jules Badger
e Tiriti o Waitangi (The Treaty of Waitangi) promises flourishing for all people who call Aotearoa New Zealand home. However, Captain Hana Seddon (Ngāpuhi, Te Rarawa, Ngāti Pūkanga) asserts that we are not seeing flourishing for many tangata whenua. Hana, who is corps officer and director of Community Ministries at Rotorua Corps (church), says that together with her team, they are committed to changing this and leaning into the Army’s priority towards those who are struggling with injustice, poverty and addiction.
‘For too long Māori have primarily been engaged as “clients” of The Salvation Army,’ says Hana. ‘What we want to see is Māori thrive and rise and take their place in every space where we already see Pākehā in leadership and in every other level of the Army. We have yet to discover the true riches that Māori culture can bring to our Salvation Army mahi (work) and faith communities.’
Nourishing and flourishing
When Captains Kylie and Ralph Overbye (Hana’s predecessors) arrived in Rotorua in 2016, Salvation Army services were dispersed across the city, with the corps, Community Ministries and Family Store each operating from different locations. In 2019, the Overbyes worked hard to relocate all expressions
of the Army into one centre, right in the heart of Rotorua City.
‘Kylie and Ralph paved the way for what God is doing now,’ says a grateful Hana. ‘They also urged Salvation Army leadership to ensure that someone Māori follow them because of the make-up of the community. Having one physical space makes it so much easier to connect our mission and ministry.’
Community Ministries Manager Darnielle Hoods (Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Kahungunu) explains that the new site has a very special history for Māori.
‘We are situated now on what was once a kūmara garden for the whole iwi in the area. So when we consider the soil beneath our feet once produced sweet kūmara to nourish the people, it begs the question, what are we producing? What is coming out of the soil of our ministry here? Are we producing sustenance for the people? Is this a place of thriving and flourishing for Māori? It’s important to understand what came before—the origins and history of a place. It adds richness.’
When Hana arrived in January 2022, fallout from the pandemic loomed large across the city. News stories reported homeless whānau (families) being housed in motels and hotels usually reserved for tourists to the region.
‘It was hugely controversial, so part of our response was to develop our Transitional Housing services and expand the way we support whānau,’ explains Hana.
‘Now we have services in both Rotorua and Tokoroa, and a growing team of social workers, navigators (advocates) and property coordinators.’
Darnielle is careful to explain that building the Transitional Housing team has taken time and a lot of prayerful consideration. ‘We need the right skills but, more importantly, we’re always asking God to bring to us the right people because we also want our team to flourish. When we are flourishing, we are in the best position to serve whānau.’
Darnielle adds, ‘I love the values of The Salvation Army, and they are interwoven within our team culture. We talk about them every day. How can you be innovative in your role today? How can we respond to the housing crisis here in Rotorua with the resources we have? The big one for the Transitional Housing team is how will we be courageous and do what’s right
and not what’s easy? Saying yes is sometimes a hard option, because it means we are committing to figuring out how we can help when it seems so impossible. But this is so much more than just a job—it’s about intentionally wanting to see lives transformed!’
‘Ensuring we are aligned with what the movement has always been about is important to us.
Outward facing and community focused
An important strategy for the team at Rotorua is having a strong ministry to the community and a team deeply connected within it.
‘This priority takes us back to the origins of the Army,’ explains Hana. ‘Ensuring we are aligned with what the movement has always been about is important to us. Everything that comes under Rotorua Salvation Army
Above: Tracey Ball, Captain Hana Seddon and Darnielle Hoods.
is outward facing and community focused. The real, raw and gritty issues that our community are dealing with are what our team face and so we need a unified team culture right across the board that is healthy, because this is hard mahi.’
With 74 percent of the whānau presenting for help being Māori, the team have worked hard to increase cultural connection.
‘People need to see someone who looks like them,’ says Darnielle. ‘Having Māori on staff immediately brings down walls.’
Currently, 80 percent of the staff are Māori, but it’s not just about culture—faith is foundational. Every day begins with devotions, including karakia (prayer), waiata (songs) and a focus on the Army’s values. The staff are 70 percent Christian and represent six different local churches.
‘As part of our onboarding process we always explain clearly that you don’t have to be a Christian to work with
us, but you do have to be prepared for an unashamedly Christian working environment,’ laughs Darnielle. Hana adds, ‘We always ask prospective employees how they will deal with all the hallelujah people!’
Hana’s vision for the Army in Rotorua is clear: ‘I see us as one Army. I don’t distinguish between Sunday and Monday. That’s a challenge for some who might see Sunday as spiritual and Monday as practical, but a biblical response to need happens all week. Our staff pray with people just as we pray together on Sunday. Whether it’s Transitional Housing, our Family Store, the church or Community Ministries we are one people, one Salvation Army moving towards greater and greater unity. We all have different roles but our collective commitment to the kaupapa (principles) are the same. You should be able to walk into The Salvation Army Rotorua on a Sunday or a Tuesday and be treated with the same manaakitanga (hospitality), aroha (love) and sense of openness, regardless of what day of the week it is.’
Spearhead of change
Kai (food) coordinator Tracey Ball is a Pākeha woman who loves her job and the team she’s part of. When Tracey’s pastor shared two years ago that the Army had some job openings, she sensed a nudge from the Holy Spirit. Hana and Tracey soon met for coffee and korero (talk), and Tracey began working as a volunteer, quickly filling a gap in business administration before settling into her current role and eventually joining the church.
‘The Salvation Army needs to be the spearhead of change, and not the rod of resistance when it comes to making space for Māori,’ says Tracey. ‘It’s easy to stick with the status quo and the comfort of what we’ve always known, but change is about new life. You can’t put “new wine into old wineskins”. So I pray for the courage to change because we must change, but we must do that with love and encouragement and give grace to one another because change is hard. But unless you are willing to acknowledge what you don’t know, then you can’t learn anything new. I’ve been invited on the journey and have chosen to embrace learning about Māori culture. It’s not about losing your identity as Pākehā but enriching it.’
Above: Some of the Community Ministries and Transitional Housing teams.
Hana is under no illusion when it comes to the challenge around change.
‘Change is exciting and inspiring, but at the same time it can be incredibly painful and costly. I talk about “mokopuna (grandchildren) decisions”, and by that, I mean creating space today where our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren will feel welcome and at home. For many of us, that means sacrificing what we are most comfortable with for the sake of someone’s new faith journey. When 45 percent of the population are Māori but only 5 percent of our Sunday congregation are Māori there must be an intentionality about changing that. I acknowledge how hard that is because when you make room for something, you have to lay something else aside or find another way for that to happen.’
Ever the pragmatist, Hana has a vision to move away from a one-size-fits-all approach to broader microcommunities all under the umbrella of Rotorua Salvation Army.
‘We want to create opportunities for people to gather around what is familiar and inspiring and helpful. For some that will be a more traditional Army service, for others that will be a Recovery Church-type space. We’d also like a new gathering that offers waiata and karakia
‘If we really care about the things we say we care about then we can’t just talk, we must act.’
and teaching te reo. We are also considering a “messy-church” mid-week family gathering.’
Drawing on the prophetic words of Catherine Booth, co-founder of The Salvation Army, Hana leaves us all with an important challenge.
‘If we really care about the things we say we care about then we can’t just talk, we must act. If that action disrupts things, then I would point back to our cofounder. She said: “If we are to better the future, we must disturb the present”. The question is do we really want to see a better future for Māori? Are we truly committed to that end? Or are we more committed to our present and familiar comfort? If we want a better future for all, then we cannot disconnect that from a need for disruption in the present. Those two ideas are deeply connected, and here in Rotorua we know that God is in this.’
The Whenua (Land)
Ōhinemutu (on the shores of Lake Rotorua) is a significant place for both Māori and The Salvation Army. Once a Ngāti Whakaue village before the government laid out plans for the city, the whenua remains an important site for the iwi. The meeting house is named Tamatekapua, after the captain of the Arawa canoe who brought the first ancestors from Polynesia, and the Kotahitanga (Māori parliament)
met at Ōhinemutu in 1895. The first Salvation Army officers in the area were young women who held gatherings at Ōhinemutu, with Captain Sarah (Hera) Stirling well known for her ‘golden voice’, and a barracks being built in 1897. Today St Faith’s Anglican church sits opposite the meeting house, with its famous window depicting Christ wearing a korowai (Māori cloak) and appearing to walk on the waters beyond.
Photo:
MORE Conference 2024: Seen, Heard, Included
MORE Conference is an annual weekend for youth leaders, children’s leaders and officers connected to The Salvation Army. This year, 175 people from Aotearoa New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa gathered for this life-giving event. Sarah Bridle reports.
Picture an old camp dining room, brimming with people making connections, reconnections and introductions. The weekend began with whakawhanaungatanga— forming new and maintaining old relationships—through facilitated conversations and time spent introducing the entire room to one another! There was no chance of leaving that space a stranger.
The theme for this year’s MORE Conference was ‘Seen, Heard, Included’, which is the heart and value system underpinning the work of the Next Gen team, led by Captain Alana LePine.
There was no chance of leaving that space a stranger.
The intent was to initially connect as whanāu (family), and then connect with our Creator. Leaders came together to show our tamariki (children) and rangatahi (youth) that we value them enough to commit time to learn, grow and connect with other leaders, in order to brainstorm and network, as we choose to continue getting better, so our ministry can be more effective.
‘How We Gather Matters’, led by Tammy Preston, was tagged
on to the conference, looking at intergenerational ministry and the heart behind this.
Objectives
We had three key objectives to anchor our time together: tūhononga (connection), to come together and connect as one team, hoping and aiming for the same divine purpose; whakawhanake (development), commitment to build upon what we already know, to grow, learn and expand our way of leading; and tā te ihu (rest), to rest in what has and what will happen, the acknowledgement of work complete and anticipation of work to come. These intentions were the base for all our planning— how we wanted to create room, facilitate time and have our leaders leave. Our rhythms formed the programme across the weekend and mirrored these three hopes: Friday for connecting, Saturday for development, Sunday for rest.
Weekend programme
On Friday we moved into the main session space to hear from Matt Renata speaking on why this creation of time and space to know one another is significant. He spoke on Psalm 23, and the rhythms of our lives.
Psalm 23 became a key biblical theme over the weekend, with every speaker noting its significance and the verses
were spoken over our delegates time and time again.
The worship team was led by Tash McMillan (Cuba Street) and Jackson Callander (Miramar Corps) and accompanied by musicians from all around our territory. This team facilitated exceptional worship and became a highlight in many feedback notes offered by attendees.
Psalm 23 became a key theme over the weekend.
Saturday had dedicated children and youth stream times, workshops, marketplace stalls, panels and free time for conversations. Workshops covered topics like How to Bring Your Best to a Team, Te Tiriti, Neurodiversity, How to Reach Gen Z,
Child Spirituality and more. Panels covered topics like Stories from the Islands, Staying the Course and Messing with Messy Church.
occur, God is still there, still moving, still making space for us to rest.
Connections
The day ended with a testimony from Mele Vaea (Tonga Region). This was followed by a message from Daniel Buttar (from Alpha)—a familiar face to those from Te Whanganui a Tara Wellington. He reminded us of what God thinks of us beyond our ministry and that he loves us for who we are. He also reminded us to make room for Jesus, to get away to a quiet place and work with him.
Sunday brought the Sabbath reminder of recognising what has been achieved and choosing rest in him. Molly Sheridan (Palmerston North Corps) shared her testimony, and Lieutenant Jesse Willis (Thames Corps) preached with a gentle, vulnerable kindness, reminding us that although interruptions may
Finishing our weekend was a time of poroporoaki (farewell). Echoing the chatter of Friday in the dining space, we heard people who had made new and old connections reflecting on the weekend, praying for one another and preparing to return home with fresh eyes and rested hearts.
Sunday brought the Sabbath reminder of recognising what has been achieved and choosing rest in him.
All in all, the weekend was a significant time, and the Next Gen team is looking forward to
attempting to raise the bar for next year’s weekend.
If you know someone who went to MORE, why not ask them how they found connection, development and rest. How is their ministry going? How can you support them? We encourage you to continue in korero (conversations) with those in ministry around you.
MORE Conference 2025, ‘Tino Taonga’, is in Ōtautahi Christchurch from 4 to 6 July. We’d love to see you there!
Above: Scenes from MORE Conference 2024. Photography by Kevin David.
Be Strong and Courageous
‘You are not here in the world for yourself. You have been sent here for others. The world is waiting for you!’
This inspirational statement was issued by Catherine Booth, co-founder of The Salvation Army. And every day throughout New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa, we courageously open our doors to achieve our vision: Together we live out the good news of Jesus Christ so that everyone can experience hope, wholeness and ongoing transformation—the fullness of life as God intended.
The world is waiting for us, and daily we see the rising cost of living, housing shortages and the complexity of life, which means the need for our services and opportunities to share the love of Jesus are increasing. We need to be realistic in caring for others, but also to care for ourselves, to spend time with God, set boundaries, rest and be refreshed so that we can be the most effective for God. This requires us to be courageous—to do what is right, not what’s easy—in the love and strength of God.
Our part of the world is waiting for us. I thank God for the many ways that we are seeing people find hope, wholeness and ongoing transformation as we continue to courageously step out in faith by sharing our own stories of how Jesus has transformed our lives, and showing love and compassion to the people we meet and support.
In Joshua 1:9, God gave the following promise to Joshua, as he took on leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.
‘Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.’ God was clear it would be challenging; however, Joshua could do it in the strength of God. We too can be strong and courageous because he is with us.
We serve God who called us, believing that hope and love and pragmatic kindness can change the world. The world is waiting for us!
Commissioner Julie Campbell Territorial President of Women’s Ministries
John 16:33
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. (NIV)
Kua kōrerotia e ahau ēnei mea ki a koutou, kia whai mārietanga ai koutou i roto i ahau. Ko tā koutou i te ao nei, he mamate. Otirā, kia māia; kua taea e ahau te ao! (PT)
A veika oqo kau sa tukuna vei kemudou, mo dou rawata na vakacegu e na vukuqu. Dou na kunea e vuravura na rarawa; ia mo dou vakacegu; au sa vakamalumalumutaki vuravura. (FOV)
Ham tumme i sab bataaya, ki jisse tum ham se saanti paao, kaahe ki tum ham se juṭa hei. Dunia tumme sataai. Lekin himmat rakkho! Ham dunia ke jeet lia hei! (FRHNT)
Ko e ngaahi me‘a ni kuo u tala kiate kimoutolu, Koe‘uhi ke mou ma‘u ‘iate au ha fiemālie. ‘I māmani ‘oku mou ma‘u fakamamahi: ka mou loto to‘a pe; kuo u ikuna ‘a mamani ‘e au. (TMB)
Ua ou fai atu nei mea ia te outou, ina ia outou maua le manuia ia te au. E maua outou e le puapuaga i le lalolagi, a ia outou loto tetele, ua ou manumalo i le lalolagi. (SOV)
Ko Te Wā o te Reo Time to Tackle te Reo
Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (Māori Language Week) is from September 14 to 21. Tracey Cooper sat down with Pipiwharauroa Campbell (Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti He, Ngāti Pūkenga) to talk about his life and his role as pou ahurea—national Māori lead for Addictions, Supportive Housing and Reintegration Services (ASARS) and championing te reo Māori in Te Ope Whakaora (The Salvation Army).
Pipiwharauroa is a native and fluent speaker of te reo Māori and uses every opportunity to promote and normalise the use of te reo Māori within the Army. He says incorporating more te reo throughout Te Ope Whakaora is a key focus during Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, and he’s encouraging everyone to have a go, no matter how much—or how little—you know.
‘You’ve got to start somewhere,’ he says. ‘Some people say it might be a bit tokenistic, but my belief is that once you’ve started, the more it gets used, the less tokenistic it will feel.’
Bridging two worlds
He knows from experience how easy it can be to turn away from your language and culture when it’s not supported. He reflects on his previous experiences in the Royal New Zealand Navy.
‘My focus is on normalising te ao Māori (the Māori world) and growing Māori in this space, so people don’t feel like I did in the Navy at that time, where it was not cool to be Māori.’
That feeling saw him move away from the Māori world he grew up in.
‘I did Kōhanga Reo, full immersion, then bilingual and then I went to Te
Aute College. I left Te Aute proud to be Māori. But in the Navy, electrical engineering is predominantly older white males, so I stopped speaking te reo; and my last name is Campbell, so I just sort of hid there in the background.’
After 10 years, he decided to reembrace te ao Māori—initially as the Navy marae coordinator—before joining Te Ope Whakaora about three
years ago, as the sole pou ahurea, or cultural advisor.
‘I guess the good thing is that my engineering career in the Navy
‘Now, including myself, we’ve got six pou ahurea across the motu (land)…’
Right: Pipiwharauroa Campbell.
gave me a structured outlook and helped me work in a predominantly Pākehā space, trying to advocate for Māori. Taking a structured approach makes it easier for non-Māori organisations to understand Māori initiatives,’ he says.
‘Most of the time in these roles you’re the only Māori voice on the board, and it’s not necessarily a position of authority, it’s more a position of influence. You’ve got to be able to influence others to gain their support.’
Strengthening representation
He’s clearly been successful in his mahi (work), as we’ve come a long way in three years.
‘When I first came to ASARS it was just me. Now, including myself, we’ve got six pou ahurea across the motu (land) and they’ve been able to embed different kaupapa Māori within their rohe (areas).’
‘We recently had an external Māori auditor come in and we scored really well.’
He says that those pou ahurea will play an imporant role during Te Wiki o te Reo Māori. ‘The pou ahurea will do a kaitahi (shared meal), a little educational piece and I’ll do the same for the national office, but if the places don’t have that resource, it’s a bit tough.
‘At Matariki we made Māori kites and another year we went on a tour with Ngāti Whātua, who took us around Tāmaki so everyone could see the importance of landmarks. And there
are always a few Treaty things, which is good because they reframe the importance of our work.’
And while progress has been encouraging, there’s still work to be done.
‘We recently had an external Māori auditor come in and we scored really well. In my opinion, we do good mahi
for Māori, and we’ve come a long way in three years, but we can do better.’
During Te Wiki o te Reo Māori we can try and do just that!
For Te Wiki o te Reo Māori resources, visit reomaori.co.nz/ te-wiki-o-te-reo-maori-2024
Ki Te Tuohu Koe, Me He Maunga Teitei | Overcoming Obstacles
Billie-Rae shares with readers the life-changing impact that the Positive Lifestyle Programme (PLP) has on his life, which he completed with programme facilitator Beverly Parkinson at the Community Ministries centre at Hamilton City Corps.
I am filled with a sense of gratitude and accomplishment that I never thought I would experience. My journey to this moment has been long and fraught with challenges, but it has also been transformative and empowering.
Six years ago, my world fell apart when my four-yearold daughter passed away after a long battle with cancer. Losing her was the hardest thing I have ever endured. She was born with cancer and fought bravely through several remissions before it finally took her from us. Her passing left me broken and consumed with grief and anger. I felt like a failure because I was unable to protect my little girl.
The strain of this grief took its toll on my marriage, and my wife and I eventually separated. She needed to find a way to cope, to be carefree, while I was sinking deeper into despair.
Six years ago, my world fell apart when my four-year-old daughter passed away after a long battle with cancer.
I turned to alcohol, thinking it would numb the pain, but it only made things worse. I isolated myself, consumed by anger and sadness. My family saw how I was drowning in my grief and urged me to seek help. I was hesitant, but deep down I knew I needed to change for the sake of my surviving children.
When I first came to the PLP at The Salvation Army, the facilitator helped me confront my pain and taught
me how to manage my grief. The biggest lesson I learned was that I could not change the past, but I could change how I responded to it.
The biggest lesson I learned was that I could not change the past, but I could change how I responded to it.
Pathway to healing
Another pivotal moment in my recovery was attending the Man-Up programme. It gave me the space to share my story and realise that I was not alone. Talking about my trauma and hearing others’ experiences was incredibly healing. I also found solace in faith and started attending church and reconnecting with a spiritual path that I had abandoned.
Slowly but surely, I began to change. I started attending PLP classes with a new sense of purpose, dressing up and carrying myself with pride. Spending time with my teenage daughters, I noticed how they began to see the changes in me. One particular moment stands out, when we went to McDonald’s and there was an issue with the ordering system. Normally this would have triggered my anger but, instead, I stayed calm. My daughter noticed and commented on how different I was. It was a powerful affirmation that I was on the right path.
My journey also took me to Hamilton due to bail conditions, but this move was another step towards
healing. Reconnecting with family there, I found the support and encouragement to continue my transformation. They witnessed my effort to make amends and heal, and we are working on restoring our relationships.
One of the most significant tests of my progress happened recently at The Salvation Army. I was sitting waiting for my PLP facilitator to come out, when I saw my ex-wife—an encounter that once would have triggered a violent reaction in me. But instead of anger, I felt calm and even prayed for her. This was a monumental shift in my behaviour and mindset.
I have now graduated from the PLP—this is not just an end, but a new beginning. I am ready to embrace life with hope and positivity.
Future focused
As I look to the future, my goal is simple yet profound: I want to be able to host a good old-fashioned BBQ with my whole family, free from the chains of alcohol, where we can laugh and enjoy each other’s company. I want to be a man my children can look up to, someone who has faced his demons and emerged stronger.
I couldn’t have reached this point without the support of The Salvation Army and PLP, and everyone else
involved in my journey. Thank you for believing in me when I struggled to believe in myself.
I have now graduated from the PLP—this is not just an end, but a new beginning. I am ready to embrace life with hope and positivity.
The Positive Lifestyle Programme (PLP) is a Salvation Army programme which focuses on selfawareness and personal development. Participants attend eight, one-hour sessions on selfawareness, anger, depression and loneliness, stress, grief and loss, assertiveness, self-esteem and future directions. Trained facilitators deliver this programme across most Community Ministries centres, some receiving government funding for this transformational programme. Please pray for our skilled facilitators and the hundreds of people who engage with this programme each year. Contact carolyn.smith@salvationarmy.org.nz , the national programme facilitation coordinator, for further information.
He Whakapono Pūmau A Resilient Faith
Just as King David fought lions and bears long before he faced Goliath, one could say that Major Perry Bray has been training his entire life to face scleroderma— a rare incurable autoimmune disease he was diagnosed with in 2018. Perry is facing this giant head-on, just like King David did.
WORDS Jules Badger
erry’s dad served in the United Kingdom armed forces, meaning the family moved frequently. As a teenager Perry was sent to boarding school for some educational stability and while he had a positive introduction to God and church during this time, he soon faced an unexpected upheaval—his parent’s divorce. This resulted in further separation from his mother and brother as they moved to the United States after Perry finished his schooling.
The confusion and ensuing breakdown in relationship with his father saw Perry plunge into alcohol and drug addiction. But a chemically induced near-death experience was the wake-up call he needed.
Perry fled to his grandparents in New Zealand where he detoxed, and soon found solace in rep-football. It was during this season that Perry met his wife, Annette, completely changing the trajectory of his life.
Living the dream
‘Within five years we’d moved into our own home. I had a wife, car, dog—I had made it. I was living the dream! Not bad for someone who less than five years prior nearly threw any prospect of life away,’ reflects Perry.
Soon expecting twins, Annette had a difficult pregnancy. Her parents were attending East City Corps (Auckland) and unknown to Annette, she was being
prayed for regularly. When the church sent flowers during one of her stays in hospital, Annette was deeply touched. She then began regularly attending church, and Perry was training to become the branch manager for a Warehouse store.
But a chemically induced near-death experience was the wake-up call he needed.
‘It felt as though whenever I had down time, Annette wasn’t around—she was at church or volunteering. Things were strained between us, and this is when I had my “Nineveh” moment. God was nudging me, but each time I was shoving him away into the corner.
One day I felt a strong nudge after Annette had left for church, and I knew it was God and that if I wanted our relationship to work, I had better get to church. I walked through the door that day and instantly felt at home. It was like—wow! This is what’s been missing.’
Perry and Annette got involved and soon became part of the leadership team. It was during a trip to Chicago and the Willow Creek Leadership Summit in the early 2000s that Perry heard the clear call to full-time ministry as an officer (leader) in The Salvation Army.
Once again Annette was way ahead of him, and so the couple applied and were accepted for training in the God’s Fellow Workers session. They took up their first appointment as leaders of Westport Corps in 2008.
Shaken but undeterred
Most Salvation Army officers find themselves in an appointment with significant challenges at some time during their years of service, but Annette and Perry had a successive string of them. In Westport they led the tight-knit community through the grief of three teenage road-related deaths, before the region was pummeled with a new anguish—the Pike River mine disaster. Then an appointment in Christchurch brought their family into the path of the Canterbury earthquakes, followed by a move to Invercargill Corps and a major building project and relocation of services. This decade-long season concluded with the unexpected and devasting death of a beloved corps leader. But God was at work, building resilience and teaching Perry and Annette to fully rely on him.
‘Whatever came our way, we trusted God to carry us through. Sometimes he carried us kicking and screaming, but we met the challenges head on and with God’s help didn’t let circumstances consume us,’ explains Perry. ‘We did what we could to help others, believing that reliance on God would enable us to accomplish what he needed us to do. From time to time, yes, we floundered a bit, but we always found a way because God was bigger than any issue or event life threw at us.’
It was towards the end of their time in Invercargill that a congregation member with a medical background noticed something wasn’t quite right with Perry. In September 2018, at 47 years of age, Perry was diagnosed with scleroderma, a rare autoimmune disease that is often progressive, currently incurable and has no known specific causes. Simply put, it is a thickening of the skin that affects the connective tissues and internal fibrous organs of the body, including muscles and joints, heart and lungs. Not only is scleroderma rare, but every case is unique because scleroderma is a disease that causes the body to attack
Above: Majors Perry and Annette Bray.
itself, resulting in other conditions. Perry now also has interstitial lung disease (ILD), with the damage to his lungs much like that of asbestos poisoning.
Treatment options are limited, mixed and experimental. Six months of chemotherapy and high doses of the steroid drug prednisone produced no discernable benefits for Perry. Perry is now receiving a more severe immune suppression treatment; however, the regular infusions mean he must self-isolate for
long periods (minimum two months) after treatment to reduce the risk of infection.
Busy being
A pharmaceutical approach is only part of the plan. Significant lifestyle changes (slowing down and removing stress) were also recommended. For an A-type personality and highly capable leader like Perry, this has been both challenging and revelatory.
‘My faith looks very different now—making sure my relationship with God is deep and our connection is strong is vital. Admittedly in my early years of officership I was busy doing. Now, I’m so much more intentional about being with God and being with people. I’ve slowed down to spend more time with God, and I believe I am a better servant to others now,’ reflects Perry. And the results speak for themselves.
‘We did what we could to help others, believing that reliance on God would enable us to accomplish what he needed us to do.’
‘I’ve stabilised. The drugs are doing their bit and with the lifestyle changes I’ve made, both the respiratory and rheumatology specialists are pleasantly surprised with how well my body is responding,’ says Perry. Perry’s diagnosis has not dampened his spirit. If anything, his reliance on God is stronger than ever.
‘I’ve always been an optimistic, happy-go-lucky kind of guy that doesn’t get riled up too easily. I’m fun-loving and energetic, and while I can’t be as active physically now, my mind has become quicker to look at the bright side. That doesn’t mean I don’t go for a trip down to the “woe is me” minefield, because believe me I do, but I check myself and get my head back in the right space with God. He’s never failed me and while I may question his involvement from time to time, ultimately God is
From top: Perry during treatment. Perry with youngest daughter Emily.
always bigger than what’s in front of me and everything else pales in comparison. I must trust that.’
Making it count
Perry’s making sure every moment counts by investing his time and limited energy into what matters most to him—people. Currently Perry serves part-time as mission support coach for The Salvation Army in the Wellington area, having taken early retirement.
‘Mentoring and coaching are so important to me. This is all-encompassing discipleship work. We need others to encourage and support us in our God-given ministry endeavours. We were not made to journey this life alone, and so I rely on God to give me the time he needs for me to do this work.’
Retiring early also enables Perry to serve (mostly digitally) as a volunteer peer mentor and leader of various scleroderma support groups, both here and overseas. The synergy of passion is obvious.
‘I can be me—friendly and outgoing—and look for ways to connect with and involve others. God has instilled in me a desire to be used for his glory, so when I saw an opportunity to do something and got the nudge to carry it through, well, that was obedience rightly aligned to serve him and assist others.’
For Perry, though, as a husband, father and now granddad, time is precious when it comes to those who are nearest and dearest to him—his three children, Patrick, Christina and Emily, and wife of 31 years, Annette.
‘Scleroderma has given me the opportunity to deliberately connect and relate on a deeper level with my kids. I touch base monthly with the twins (Patrick and Christina) and their spouses, to speak into their lives intentionally. I want to know what’s on top for them, understand how they are doing, and, if I can help, do a bit of intentional mentoring and coaching. That’s strengthened our relationship.’
Annette adds, ‘Since Perry’s diagnosis there’s been an urgency to see the kids settled, and in a place in their lives where they’ve got things together—the coaching just spills so naturally into family life now.’
Living in the present is very important for Perry, but with that comes preparation for the future.
‘For Annette, I would like to think that when the day comes, she’ll want for nothing. Everything will be provided.’
‘Scleroderma has given me the opportunity to deliberately connect and relate on a deeper level with my kids.’
Facing the sun
Perry and his youngest daughter Emily recently got sunflower tattoos together. The sunflower is the international symbol for scleroderma. A sunflower instinctively turns its head towards the light.
‘Recognising where darkness exists in our lives helps us to discern the light,’ explains Perry. ‘In the light we find gratitude for things that persist despite the darkness. This offers us a chance to move forward and explore a fullness of life regardless of what is going on about us, be those further complications from the disease, uncertainty about what tomorrow will bring, or confusion about why I can’t do things today that I could yesterday. This resonates with me as a Christian because we seek not only to follow the light, the sun (the Son), but we are also called to be light-bringers to others—encouraging and supporting them and ultimately introducing them to him.’
Spiramentum Ministries
Spiramentum is Latin for ‘breathing space’ and together Annette and Perry have created an online space where they ‘endeavour to help people create breathing space in their everyday, busy lives and ministries’ spiramentumministries
Called by Another Name
WORDS Kelly Cooper
Named Abram and Sarai,
Called Abraham and Sarah.
Named Jacob, Simon and Saul, Called Israel, Peter and Paul.
Named Belteshazzar, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego,
Called Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah.
Named inferior, imperfect and insignificant, He calls us wonderfully made, complete and chosen.
Named unwanted, excluded, an orphan, He calls us a child, a friend, an heir.
Named forsaken, guilty and bound, He calls us accepted, blameless and free.
Named lost, forgotten and condemned, He calls us justified, redeemed and forgiven.
Named hesitant, divided and isolated, He calls us confident, included and connected.
Named broken, unworthy and incomplete, He calls us holy, set apart, a new creation.
He calls us by another name, He calls us his branches, He calls us blessed, He calls us his beloved.
HEIR
COMPLETE ACCEPTED
INCLUDED
FRIEND
Pushing Pause: Safeguarding from Disconnect
In part four of this series, Major Mat Badger continues to encourage us to move away from the restlessness of the world and move towards the gifts of true rest offered by Sabbath practice—reflection, refreshment, restoration, space to delight ourselves in God, in his creation and in our identity as image bearers.
The book of Leviticus was essentially the guidebook for the Levites (the priests of Israel) as they wandered through the wilderness and then as they entered the Promised Land. Chapter 23 outlines the festivals that Israel was told to practise, and which became central to the life of God’s people. Note that the first festival listed is the Sabbath.
‘The Lord said to Moses, “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘These are my appointed festivals … which you are to proclaim as sacred assemblies. There are six days when you may work, but the seventh day is a day of Sabbath rest, a day of sacred assembly”’’ (Leviticus 23:1–3a).
Sacred assembly
For the Levite priests, sacred assembly was integral to their role, but even they were commanded to Shabbat (Sabbath): to cease working, to stop completely, to rest. Sabbath was probably the most important of all the appointed times of sacred assembly because it occurred every week, and it was the first of the sacred assemblies God gave to Moses. Leviticus reinforces the ongoing importance of Sabbath rest for God’s people.
Sabbath rest for the land was also commanded. ‘But in the seventh year the land is to have a year of Sabbath rest, a Sabbath to the Lord. Do not sow your fields or prune your vineyards’ (Leviticus 25:4).
Trust and obey
This law allowed the land to rejuvenate itself by returning vital nutrients to the soil, which enhanced the quality of the produce, leading to healthier people and livestock. This is perhaps the earliest record of conservation as we know it today. From a human perspective, letting
the land rest for a whole year was risky. Observing the seventh-year rest was ultimately an act of obedience to God and trust in his faithfulness to provide. If they obeyed, they would be a blessed people, but if they didn’t, their disobedience would result in judgement. Which leads to the next part of our framework for rest, which is a warning: not keeping the Sabbath leads to disconnection from God and an imbalance in creation.
Leviticus reinforces the ongoing importance of Sabbath rest for God’s people.
This was one of the primary reasons the prophets repeatedly warned Israel to keep the Sabbath, or they would be taken back into captivity for 70 years. Why 70 years? It was the exact number of Sabbaths—including Sabbaths for the land—that the Israelites didn’t keep. Essentially, God came debt collecting! Hey Israel, according to our agreement—the covenant we made—you owe me the sum total of every Sabbath you have missed, which comes to 70 years.
Israel was taken into captivity under King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon for 70 years to the day. Due to this period of Babylonian captivity, the land finally rested.
We see this numerical pattern popping up in the New Testament in Matthew 18:21–22, ‘Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventyseven times.’ This is of course the
same number of years that God forgave Israel for not keeping the Sabbath—for sinning against him. It’s a strong example of forgiveness!
Weighted warning
After 70 years of Babylonian captivity, Israel returned to Jerusalem in stages, under the leadership of Ezra, Nehemiah and Zerubbabel. Ezra helps set up the temple and teachings, Zerubbabel brings back the temple items and Nehemiah leads the rebuilding of the city walls. However, despite being in captivity for 70 years, Israel failed to learn the lesson. They began breaking God’s laws again, Sabbath being one of them.
‘Therefore, I warned them against selling food on that day. People from Tyre who lived in Jerusalem were bringing in fish and all kinds of merchandise and selling them in Jerusalem on the Sabbath to the people of Judah. I rebuked the nobles of Judah and said to them, “What is this wicked thing you are doing— desecrating the Sabbath day?”’ (Nehemiah 13:15a–17).
Nehemiah rebukes the nobles of Israel—the wealthy elite—who were making money on the Sabbath.
‘“Didn’t your ancestors do the same things, so that our God brought all this calamity on us and on this city? Now you are stirring up more wrath against Israel by desecrating the Sabbath.” When the evening shadows fell on the gates of Jerusalem before the Sabbath, I ordered the doors to be shut and not opened until the
From a human perspective, letting the land rest for a whole year was risky.
Sabbath was over. I stationed some of my own men at the gates so that no load could be brought in on the Sabbath day’ (Nehemiah 13:18–19).
Breaking the Sabbath leads to disconnection from God and imbalance.
The weight of Nehemiah’s warning got through: ‘From that time on they no longer came on the Sabbath. Then I commanded the Levites to purify themselves and go and guard the gates in order to keep the Sabbath day holy’ (Nehemiah 13:21a–22a).
As the Old Testament teaching on Sabbath comes to an end, we once again see the struggle for Israel to keep the Sabbath. Breaking the Sabbath leads to disconnection from God and imbalance. One of the key driving factors for breaking the Sabbath was making money, which we know (see part three) led to all sorts of injustice.
Kingdom values
As we think about life here in 2024, there are obvious parallels and applications for us. We live in a society that is driven by the values of excess and material gain at the expense of people and the planet. But as the people of God, we are called to live out the values of the kingdom, not mirror the values of the world.
Next month we explore what Jesus said and did when it came to Sabbath practice and see what ‘rest for your soul’ looks like in everyday life.
Just Brass Celebrates
What began as a modest outreach to two local schools a decade ago has flourished into a thriving ensemble. Kelly Cooper sat down with Martin and Lynley Robertson to learn about their Just Brass journey as they prepare to celebrate 10 years of Just Brass at Christchurch City Corps (church).
To say that Martin and Lynley Robertson—along with their dedicated team of volunteers—have been instrumental in shaping and sustaining Just Brass in Christchurch, would be an understatement. Martin has been bandmaster for many years, and Lynley, who has attended this corps her entire life, is the children’s and family worker at Christchurch City Corps (CCC).
Martin and Lynley describe CCC as a musical corps, with well-established junior and senior brass bands. Following the earthquakes, they saw an opportunity to work with two local primary schools teaching students to play brass instruments. ‘We had seen
what they were doing in Australia with Just Brass, and we thought, we could do that,’ explains Lynley.
They approached two primary schools, with who they had previously established relationships, and they jumped at the chance to get on board. ‘We took a little group of us down to the schools and did a promo. We asked who would be interested and handed out all our flyers,’ shares Martin.
Opportunity for all
Initially 15 students took up the opportunity to learn a brass instrument, each receiving a free lesson during the week at their school, afternoon tea,
further tuition and the opportunity to play together as a band on a Tuesday afternoon at CCC. This programme continued to thrive and flourish over the 10 years and currently boasts 54 members.
‘Most of them have never played an instrument,’ says Martin. ‘Learning a musical instrument is great for brain engagement and for building relationships with one another. The traditional approach to learning an instrument involved practising alone until you became competent enough to join a band. The Just Brass philosophy is to bring all the kids together and have them play as a group from the very start.
They learn to listen to each other and understand that they are part of a team.’
In addition to free tuition, each child also receives a brass instrument, a satchel with their music and a Just Brass T-shirt.
‘We are very fortunate to have some significant sponsors, and our corps generously support us too,’ says Martin. Lynley agrees, adding that Just Brass is a whole team approach, with many corps members volunteering both their skills and their time.
‘We also have a couple of ex-Just Brass students at the New Zealand School of Music in Wellington and others have received high school music scholarships.’
Community first
Both Martin and Lynley attribute the success of Just Brass to the community they have established.
‘We have seen hundreds of children come through Just Brass. Some stay for a season and some stay for longer. We have students who started with us in primary school, continued through intermediate and high school and now they are still with us as young adults. Ten years is a long time to be a part of someone’s life,’ shares Lynley.
Lucy Boyd was among the first children to join Just Brass as a primary school student. Now studying for a bachelor of teaching, Lucy continues to be part of the Just Brass team and describes her involvement in this programme as ‘life changing’. An accomplished
brass musician, Lucy credits Just Brass as having a significant impact on her faith journey and providing her with opportunities to make friends and to travel around New Zealand playing. She also highlights the positive influence Just Brass has had on her friends who are part of the programme, as well as other Just Brass families who have since become valued corps members at CCC.
End of term concerts, holiday programmes and special Sunday services provide further opportunities for connections with families.
‘All those kids coming along are attached to families. I get to chat to parents when they come to pick their children up and attend our concerts. For many it’s the first time they’ve ever stepped into a church,’ explains Lynley.
A time to celebrate
‘Just Brass has provided the opportunity for many children to pick up a brass instrument that they may not have otherwise had. We now have five young people in our senior band and most of our junior band are Just Brass kids. We also have a couple of ex-Just Brass students at the New Zealand School of Music in Wellington and others have received high school music scholarships,’ says Martin.
Above: Lucy Boyd was one of the first children to join Just Brass when she was at primary school.
Martin describes the highlight of the past decade as the chance to engage with children and witness their growing confidence in playing brass instruments. For Lynley, the most special aspect has been getting to know the children and their families while building the Just Brass community. For those considering learning a brass instrument, Lucy offers these words of encouragement, ‘The people you meet and the opportunities you get are awesome. It’s worth it!’
A weekend of activities and celebrations is planned at CCC from 14 to 15 September, to commemorate the 10th year anniversary of Just Brass. Festivities include a public concert at the Riverside Market and an evening concert at CCC on the Saturday, followed by a church service at 10am on the Sunday morning.
Tonga Region Amplify Creative Arts Camp
by Mele Vaea, Photography by Petulisa Kaivaha
Young people from around the Tonga Region recently came together with leaders from Tonga and Aotearoa New Zealand for the Amplify Creative Arts Camp. It was a wonderful event, with much productivity and times of laughter, fun, worship, fellowship and food, but also challenge as we enhanced our skills and knowledge around subjects offered at camp this year. The wonderful team from Aotearoa New Zealand brought with them goodies and resources, and were the greatest supporters of our Tongan team. As we spent time with these leaders, we gave back to them the experience of how we do things in the Islands. In turn, they built great confidence in the Tonga-based team, as we did tasks and worked alongside each other. There were 50 registered campers, aged 14 to 35 years, with 10 participants from each corps. Each camper was given the opportunity to choose their selected major and minor subjects.
For the full story, go to saltmagazine.org.nz
Get Away with the Word
by Major Litiana Cola
Recently, women officers from the Fiji Division gathered at the Nasau Resort in Nadi for a transformative spiritual retreat. The theme for the gathering was ‘Gentleness’, and was led by the inspiring Territorial Secretary for Personnel Captain Pauleen Richards. The retreat was a powerful blend of prayer, meditation and shared testimony, and Pauleen delivered the Word with conviction, challenging attendees to embrace gentleness in their lives.
As women yoked to Christ Jesus, we discovered that gentleness wasn’t a weakness but a strength—a quality that connects to their humble Friend, visionary Teacher and loving Master. The retreat unfolded with grace. Women immersed themselves in the Bible, seeking wisdom and guidance. We prayed, meditated and shared personal stories, finding the concept of gentleness deeply convicting. It was a time of reflection, growth and renewed purpose.
For the full story, go to saltmagazine.org.nz
East Coast Chaplains
Over the weekend of 14 to 16 June, a new iteration of chaplaincy training took place at Gisborne Corps. The weekend of local training was the first of its kind and attracted 15 prospective chaplains. Previously chaplaincy training has taken place annually over four days at Booth College of Mission (BCM). However, with post-pandemic pressures reducing BCM-based chaplaincy training capacity to bi-annual only, coupled with increasingly prohibitive travel costs for large groups, the innovative idea to explore bringing the trainers to the trainees on the alternate year was born. ‘It was great to be with participants in their own backyard and unique context. Being able to embrace them in their own space really added something special to the training,’ explains Territorial Secretary for Chaplaincy Services Captain Shaun Baker.
For the full story, go to saltmagazine.org.nz
Musical Mixer
Over the weekend of July 27 to 28, Wellington South Corps hosted a special combined event featuring The Salvation Army New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Youth Band and SpiritSong choir. This was the first combined band and choir event in 25 years. Executive officer for SpiritSong, Lt-Colonel Lynette Hutson says, ‘Bringing the two groups together built new relationships and strengthened existing ones. The focus for both groups is using the power of music to share the gospel message.’ A Wellington South congregant member said that both groups were truly outstanding and presented a range of musical styles. ‘The concert was God glorifying and I’m pretty sure the percussion section could be heard right across Newtown.’
For the full story, go to saltmagazine.org.nz
Self-Denial Launch at Greymouth Corps
by Bev Baxter
We had a wonderful time at Greymouth Corps for the launch of Self-Denial 2024. Special guests for the morning were Lt-Colonels Alberth and Elsi Sarimin from the Indonesia Territory, currently in appointments in our territory, as assistant chief secretary and territorial secretary for Women’s Ministries respectively.
Elsi shared her testimony, along with information and photos of their homeland. Indonesia is made up of many islands, and there is a thriving transformative work of mission and ministry through The Salvation Army, including hospitals, education centres and corps. Alberth brought the Bible message, reminding us of the power of Christ to transform lives.
For the full story, go to saltmagazine.org.nz
Season of Creation
The Salvation Army’s Environmental Sustainability Working Group, ‘Salves’, is a group of five passionate people committed to keeping the care of Creation in front of Salvationists across the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory. Every year during September, Salves supports the ecumenical prayer and action initiative, ‘Season of Creation’.
This year’s theme is To Hope and Act with Creation, and content is drawn from Romans 8:22. A variety of resources are available for individual and group use. Salves member Captain Rachel Montgomery reminds us that, ‘We are part of all that God has made, and he entrusted the care of the earth and everything in it to us as stewards and guardians.’ Visit seasonsofcreation.org
For the full story, go to saltmagazine.org.nz
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Official Engagements
Commissioners Mark (Territorial Commander) and Julie Campbell (Territorial President of Women’s Ministries)
1 September: Father’s Day at Tokoroa Corps
4–5 September: Community Ministries Leadership Conference
7 September: Territorial Online Spiritual Retreat Day/Praying Together Meeting
14–15 September: Mosgiel Corps visit
16 September: Retired Officers event, Levin
17 September: 10-year Officer Review: Leader-to-Leader Forum and Dinner, Booth College of Mission
18 September: Spiritual Day, Booth College of Mission
19–20 September: South Island Officers Fellowship, Queenstown
21–22 September: Tawa Corps 70th Anniversary
26–29 September: Territorial Governance Board visit to Tonga (Mark only)
Colonel Gerry Walker (Chief Secretary)
4–5 September: Community Ministries Leadership Conference
7 September: Territorial Online Spiritual Retreat Day/Praying Together Meeting
8 September: Foxton Corps visit
15 September: Kilbirnie Corps visit
17 September: 10 Year Officer Review: Leader-to-Leader Forum and Dinner, Booth College of Mission
Lt-Colonel Liz Gainsford (Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development)
7 September: Territorial Online Spiritual Retreat Day/Praying Together Meeting
14 September: Workshop on Prayer, Youth Camp Waikanae
17–20 September: South Island Officers Fellowship, Queenstown
22 September: Oamaru Corps visit
Gazette Summary
To read the full version of Gazette notices, visit saltmagazine.org.nz/gazette
Birth: Lieutenant Charlene Whybrow has given birth to a baby boy, Ezra Josiah Whybrow. Ezra was born on Thursday 25 July 2024 weighing 6lb 35oz (2.88kgs). May God bless Lieutenants Char and Jonny Whybrow and big brother Samuel as they welcome Ezra into their family.
Promotion to Glory: Colonel Valda Bate, retired officer of United States Western Territory, was promoted to Glory on 7 August 2024 from Dunedin, Florida, USA. In 1958 Valda and John Bate entered training college from Foxton Corps and Wellington City Corps as cadets in the Courageous session. Valda was a dedicated missionary and a famed hostess to New Zealanders visiting them wherever they were stationed. Well done good and faithful servant!
Quiz Answers: 1. Q, Z, 2. Greenland, 3. Scooby Doo, 4. K, 5. Video Home System.
Taupō Corps celebrating 50 years!
14–15 September 2024 | 2 Kiddle Drive, Taupō Saturday, 12pm: lunch and a concert—RSVP to Jess Bezzant on 0272834812 | Sunday, 10.30am: celebration service
Napier Corps celebrating 140 years!
12–13 October 2024 | 56 Tait Drive, Napier For more information, please contact: p: (06) 844 4941 | e: napiersa140thregos@gmail.com
Official Opening and Celebration
Wairarapa Salvation Army in Masterton
9–10 November 2024 | 132 Ngaumutawa Road, Masterton Saturday, 1.30pm: official opening followed by afternoon tea Sunday, 10.30am: celebration service followed by a light luncheon. Please RSVP for catering numbers. To RSVP, contact: p: (06) 379 7176 | e: wairarapa.area@salvationarmy.org.nz
SALVATIONISTS IN HISTORY
Māori Ministry in Te Ope Whakaora The Salvation Army
In 1889, The War Cry published a series of articles after a three-day waka journey up the river from Whanganui to Jerusalem (Hiruharama) by a party of Salvationist travellers, including Colonel Josiah Taylor. This excerpt from The Salvation Army Heritage Series, ‘Waka to Jerusalem—Māori Ministry on the Whanganui River’ by Caroline Wardle and Selwyn Bracegirdle, captures Colonel Taylor’s perspectives of the beginnings of Māori Ministry in The Salvation Army: Te Ope Whakaora.
With an 8.30am start and after a series of fond farewells, first on land and then from the water, the waka party left Whanganui, ‘the volley firing, shouting, and waving handkerchiefs both from those who were left behind (but whom we could not help thinking would jump at the chance to come) and from our party in canoes, were immense’. The noise from Salvationists along the riverbank, Taylor believed, would have let all Whanganui know that the waka had departed. He described the dimensions of the waka with care, it was 60 feet long and narrow, made from the hollowed-out centre of tree trunks.
When the waka arrived at Matahiwi, the first stop, three and a half hours from Whanganui, a lunch was kindly provided, a meal of potatoes and whitebait for all the travellers. At dusk the waka arrived at Parakino. Taylor describes how the travellers settled down in the wharepuni, which slept 45–50, ‘…a large room with no furniture except a number of flax mats laid on the floor…’ Captain Ernest Holdaway, with his concertina, led the singing in te reo. Wrapped in blankets, they prepared for sleep that first night, listening as was the custom to men speaking and discussing various topics until 3am. The women travellers were located in different sleeping locations.
Atene (Athens) was reached at 1pm on the second day and the party was met with a hospitable welcome. A lunch was provided in the wharepuni, where later that evening a meeting was held prior to sleep.
A hearty welcome was received at Jerusalem on the afternoon of the third day. Tamatea Aurunui, a chief of Ngatihau-nui-a-Paparangi, stood on the riverbank holding a sword with a group of Salvationists. After greetings had occurred, they all proceeded to the wharepuni for more speeches of welcome.
From The War Cry account, meetings were held at Jerusalem in the morning and at night over several days in an upstairs room. Numbers reached up to 60 people and musical accompaniment included a drum and band. Testimonies were given by Turahui and Tamatea Aurunui, a chief and his daughter, Maria, who said, ‘I have got the power to overcome … I used to be ashamed to speak, but now that is all taken away… You must come up here often, Colonel, don’t be frightened of the river.’
On Monday the travellers were to make their planned departure back to Whanganui. The waka party was followed ‘down to the river’s banks and watched us to the very last. Some … preferred to show their love by weeping out of sight … God bless them all!’
Sign me up!
It is International Sign Language Week this month! In New Zealand, we have three nationally recognised languages: te reo Māori, English and New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL). Each one has its own history and significance in our country. NZSL became an official language of New Zealand in 2006, and it was recorded in the 2018 Census that there are at least 23,000 NZSL speakers in Aotearoa.
It is encouraging that as a country, te reo Māori is being used more and more in everyday life, but we are still far away for the same happening with New Zealand Sign Language. Although NZSL and te reo Māori are both languages of New Zealand, there can be unique difficulties for those that communicate in both languages to translate from one to another. Many Māori concepts or words didn’t have one-toone translations into NZSL, and work is still being done to close that gap.
It is well known now that language learning has many developmental benefits for children of all ages (read the kids page in our February 2024 edition for more on this!), and New Zealand Sign Language is no different. It may be exciting for your children to learn about one of our national languages that uses our hands and faces, rather than our words.
Learning some words in NZSL also gives parents the opportunity to teach their children that not everyone communicates in the same way, but having the ability to express your thoughts and feelings is important for everybody. We all have a responsibility to ensure that other people are listened to and understood, and to know that we can learn from people around us that express themselves differently, if we are patient and willing to be taught.
Sign Language New Zealand
Here are some words in New Zealand Sign Language that you can learn and share with your friends and family!
God
Pray
Friend Amen Love
Hear
Talk (In Sign Language)
Different Languages
All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began
Think: Imagine being back in Jesus’ time and hearing in your own language the disciples speaking about all the amazing things Jesus did. How special would that have been! God can connect with all of us in many ways, and he often shares with us through ways that are unique to us and our culture or background. to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. Utterly amazed, they asked: ‘Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language … we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!’ Acts 2:4–8, 11B
Read: This event happened right after the Holy Spirit came to Jesus’ disciples. The Spirit helped them to speak in other languages that they didn’t already know. Because of this, many people from different countries heard about Jesus in their own languages!
Pray: Thank you, God, that you gave us different languages and cultures and different ways we connect with you. Help us to learn to listen when you speak to us and teach us to know what your voice sounds like, even if it is different from what we expect. Amen.
Do: Try learning some of these words in New Zealand Sign Language. Practise with your friends and family and try to find ways to use the new words you have learnt in your week. For an extra challenge, find the New Zealand Sign Language alphabet and learn how to spell out your name!
