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SING A NEW SONG
Heart-shaped glasses, sequin outfits and hands raised in praise … the “new look” of the International Staff Songsters (ISS) on the cover of this month’s Salvationist injected jubilation and fun into their visit to Toronto in April. Their performance of Coming King to the tune of ABBA’s Dancing Queen had attendees at the Friday night celebration dinner rocking:
He is the coming King
Lord of Lords, he is King of Kings
Coming King
Praise him with drums and tambourines. Oh, yeah
I know, you’re probably singing the chorus in your head right now. As William Booth once remarked, “Why should the devil have all the good music?”
This kind of innovation was on display all weekend. The ISS were just one of six staff songster brigades that touched down for the Choral Convocation concert at Toronto’s Yorkminster Park Baptist Church, including our own Canadian Staff Songsters and four U.S.A. staff songster brigades. It was the largest Salvation Army choral-based music event ever staged, and people from around the world tuned in to the live stream, available at youtube.com/ salvationistmagazine.
Two highlights for me were the massed songsters’ rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel’s Messiah, as well as Major Len Ballantine’s beautifully composed Behold the Tabernacle of God, which brought the congregation to a hushed and holy silence. Above all else, God was glorified as the songsters raised their voices in praise. Read our coverage on page 10.
Elsewhere in the magazine, we continue our cross-territory journey by spotlighting three Alberta outreach ministries: pickleball, Craft and Chat, and “The Bunker” (see page 16). We also take you to the Italy and Greece Territory, where Canadian officers Lt-Colonels Andrew and Darlene Morgan, territorial leaders, reflect on the Army’s growth in that part of the world (see page 18). And Commissioner Lee Graves, territorial commander, celebrates the legacy of Booth University College as the institution honours a new round of graduates (page 9).
Music is part of our DNA in The Salvation Army. It’s a way of expressing our faith, connecting with the Creator and moving listeners to deeper reflection and action.
Psalm 96:1-2 says: “Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord all the earth … praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day.” When we live as Jesus would have us do, our lives “sing” of his goodness. We become a paean of praise to our holy God
GEOFF MOULTON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
I’m pleased to report that The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory’s media team took home 15 awards from the Canadian Christian Communicators Association this year, including recognition for writing, editing, design and digital media. See all the winners at salvationist.ca/cccaawards2024.
Booth University College Celebrates 2024 Graduates
On April 28, the atmosphere at Knox United Church in Winnipeg was jubilant and festive as friends, family, staff and faculty gathered for the 42nd convocation ceremony for Booth University College.
At the morning baccalaureate service, Booth UC officially installed Rev. (Dr.) Rob Fringer as president and Dr. Linda Schwartz as vice-president, academic and dean. The installation was met with enthusiasm on campus as Schwartz and Fringer’s dedication to the institution has garnered hope and optimism for the future of Booth UC.
The baccalaureate service also featured a message from Commissioner Lee Graves, territorial commander and chancellor of Booth UC, and student reflections from Major Pamela Stanger and Megan Vlok.
“When I started my degree, I was still in South Africa. It was tough to wake up at 1 a.m. for lectures,” said Vlok. “But that’s when I knew it was something I was willing to work hard to achieve, and I did it. I’m grateful for everyone who helped me along the way.”
In the afternoon, the focus shifted to the convocation. With members of the board of trustees, representatives from
divisional and territorial headquarters, and hundreds of family, friends and supporters looking on, 88 students graduated and received their certificates or degrees.
“Graduating class, congratulations!” declared Scott Gillingham, mayor of Winnipeg, in his convocation address.
“All of your work and sacrifices have culminated in this moment of accomplishment.”
“May our impact be felt far beyond these walls and for generations to come!”
FAITH UGWU
After further remarks from Tyler Blashko, member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba, and Faith Ugwu, valedictorian, Commissioner Graves handed out the diplomas and certificates, accompanied by cheers, applause and the occasional dance across the stage.
After the students received their degrees, Commissioner Graves pre -
sented the Chancellor’s Medal to Mayah Ferguson, who graduated with a bachelor of arts in behavioural sciences, and the General’s Medal to Captain Kelly Fifield, who earned a bachelor of arts in biblical and theological studies.
“To my fellow graduates, thank you for doing the work and seeing this journey through to the end,” said Ugwu during her valedictory address. “As we transition to the next phase of our lives, let us reflect on the experiences that have shaped us, the challenges that have strengthened us and the friendships that have enriched us. May our impact be felt far beyond these walls and for generations to come!”
The Booth UC graduating class of 2024
Faith Ugwu, valedictorian
Photos: Tim Plett
New Barrhaven Church and Community Centre Opens in Ottawa
Oshawa Temple Celebrates 140 Years
After nearly 15 years of anticipation, The Salvation Army’s Barrhaven Church and Community Centre in Ottawa has opened its doors to the public. A grand opening and ribbon-cutting event invited the community and congregation to celebrate the milestone.
As Captain Laura Van Schaick, corps officer, notes, the corps had operated out of a school gymnasium and other rented space for several years. “It was amazing for those who have been longtime members of the church to see it all come to fruition.”
In April 2022, Barrhaven officially broke ground on the new facility and finished construction in January 2024, marking the completion of the first of a three-phase project. While the first phase focuses on the construction of multi-use program space and offices, the following phases will add both a gymnasium and an auditorium.
Every space within the centre is multipurpose, designed intentionally to serve the diverse needs of the community. A main goal of Barrhaven is to address the chronic loneliness in its community and the prominent underlying need for connection. Current programs, such as the Sunshine Club, a seniors’ outreach program, and Piecemakers, a creative drop-in program, work to bring people together and connect them with The Salvation Army.
The grand opening event saw an impressive turnout despite rainy weather, with more than 300 people in attendance. City councillors and provincial and federal representatives expressed their support and admiration for The Salvation Army’s commitment to the community.
The worship service on Sunday was attended by Commissioners Lee and Debbie Graves, territorial commander and territorial president of women’s ministries, who led the ceremony and presented a plaque dedicating the building to the glory of God. The service, attended by approximately 170 individuals, featured performances by the senior band, including two new pieces written specifically for the grand opening, Joyful Light by Ty Watson and Send Forth by Marcus Venables.
The event also provided an opportunity for past and present members of the congregation to come together, honouring the many individuals who had a hand in planning the new facility, including former corps officers Majors Jim and Michelle Mercer, Majors Chris and Tina Rideout, and Stephen Vincent, who played in the band and represented parents Colonels Eddie and Genevera Vincent.
The Salvation Army’s Oshawa Temple, Ont., recently celebrated 140 years since its opening in 1884 when it became the 35th corps in the Canada and Bermuda Territory. Now under the leadership of Captains Colleen and Justin Gleadall, corps officers, Oshawa Temple hosted a commemorative service and open house with special guests General Brian Peddle (Rtd) and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, retired international leaders of The Salvation Army.
The open house provided the public, as well as congregants and former corps members, with the opportunity to learn more about past and present ministries. Afterward, an anniversary dinner was attended by 175 people.
Part of the celebration was the Gift of Music concert by the Oshawa Temple Band under the leadership of Bandmaster Andrew Burditt, an annual fundraiser that raised almost $6,000 toward youth camp scholarships. Kristen Moore led the songsters in several numbers and invited Bob Young, former songster leader, to conduct My Solemn Vow, the first song the songsters performed under his leadership when the current building opened in 1988.
During the concert, retiring bandsman Arnold Cooper was honoured for 71 years of playing in eight Salvation Army bands. Guests Cameron and Phylicia Rawlins shared their musical talents, with Cameron performing a euphonium solo and Phylicia singing Take My Life.
In the Sunday morning service, Frank Marara, who recently immigrated to Canada from Zimbabwe and began attending Oshawa Temple in 2023, was enrolled as a senior soldier. “Being far away from home and with no family network in Canada, the Salvation Army church community became my family’s major source of companionship, spiritual edification and a strong support base to lean on,” said Marara.
In closing, General Peddle spoke from Philippians 1:6, reminding the congregation to be confident in God’s promises. “When he makes a promise, he keeps it,” said General Peddle.
From left, Cpts Stefan and Laura Van Schaick, COs; Commissioners Debbie and Lee Graves; Lisa MacLeod, member of Parliament; Arya Chandra, member of Parliament; Wilson Lo, city councillor for Barrhaven East; David Hill, city councillor for Barrhaven West; Lt-Cols Shawn and Brenda Critch, then DC and divisional secretary for spiritual life development, Ontario Div
From left, Comr Rosalie Peddle, General Brian Peddle (Rtd), Margaret Corrigan, Cpts Justin and Colleen Gleadall, and Levi Reid cut the anniversary cake
Photo: Steve Nelson
Photo: Lennard Johnston
Commissioners
and
International Secretaries Visit Canada and Bermuda Territory
Commissioners Cheryl and Kenneth Maynor, international secretaries for the Americas and Caribbean Zone, spent a week visiting the Canada and Bermuda Territory for a territorial review. The visit, which took place at the end of April, provided an opportunity for fellowship, feedback and an in-depth assessment of the territory.
“Every territory has a full review every three years,” explains Major Pam Goodyear, then assistant chief secretary, administration. “The last one we had in Canada and Bermuda was during the pandemic, and it was done virtually. So, it was nice to have our international secretaries come and visit us in person.”
The visit commenced with a tour of the Toronto Harbour Light facility, followed by a Sunday morning worship service at Mountain Citadel in Hamilton, Ont., led by Commissioners Maynor and Commissioners Lee and Debbie Graves, territorial commander and territorial president of women’s ministries. The territorial review officially began on Monday with a zonal presentation by Commissioners Maynor that gave an overview of the Americas and Caribbean Zone to divisional and territorial leaders, and cabinet secretaries. Commissioners Maynor later visited the Toronto Grace Health Centre for a tour.
“It was a blessing to have Commissioners Maynor leading our territorial review as our international secretaries.”
COMMISSIONER LEE GRAVES
Additionally, a series of focus groups were conducted throughout the week with the territorial Youth Action Committee, employees, Governing Council members and key stakeholders to gather feedback from various groups within the territory. The territorial review aimed to assess the state of the Canada and Bermuda Territory as it relates to mission effectiveness, affirming the positives and strategizing for the future.
The visit also included moments of spiritual reflection and encouragement, with Commissioners Maynor sharing devotionals and leading a Thursday chapel service at territorial headquarters, where they presented long-service pins to Commissioner Debbie Graves and Colonels John and Lani Chamness, chief secretary and territorial secretary for spiritual life development. Following the chapel, attendees were invited for a coffee break and time
for fellowship and conversation with Commissioners Maynor.
“The Salvation Army is a spiritual organization, and we don’t want to drift from that mission,” says Major Goodyear. “It’s important to hear our leaders speak to us from Scripture, to challenge us and encourage us. They were really able to connect and engage with people while they were here.”
“It was a blessing to have Commissioners Maynor leading our territorial review as our international secretaries. The spiritual basis upon which they premised the review, shared insight and affirmed all stimulated open and honest dialogue,” says Commissioner Lee Graves. “Every opportunity of telling our story and strengthening the mutual understanding between International Headquarters and the Canada and Bermuda Territory is welcomed and celebrated.”
Lee
Debbie Graves, territorial leaders, and the territorial executive team stand with Comrs Cheryl and Kenneth Maynor outside THQ in Toronto
Photo: Geoff Moulton
Week on Parliament Hill Offers Opportunity for Advocacy
alignment between our mission and the services we provide, and the priorities of government as we saw them outlined in the recent budget,” explains Major Rick Zelinsky, territorial director of public affairs. “Those pillars are housing, genderbased violence, poverty and emergency disaster services.”
The week began with Army leaders attending the 59th annual National Leadership Dinner and Prayer Breakfast, followed by 45 targeted meetings with government officials, including with members of Parliament representing the Ministry of Health and the Standing Committee on the Status of Women, and with Speaker of the House Greg Fergus.
In May, the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s public affairs team hosted the second annual Salvation Army Week on the Hill, bringing 60 Army representatives to Ottawa to influence and inform lawmakers and politicians on behalf of the people the Army serves.
Among those representatives were executive leaders, including Commissioners Lee and Debbie Graves, territorial leaders, as well as public relations professionals and specialists from the front lines, representing the various services the Army provides in every division across the country.
“Our focus that week was on the four pillars that represent
The Army also hosted an all-party reception attended by more than 75 members of Parliament and staff, and a leadership dinner with special guest Colonel Wendy Swan, director of the International Social Justice Commission.
During the Week on the Hill, Public Safety Canada announced additional funding, under the Humanitarian Workforce Program, to boost The Salvation Army’s wildfire response efforts this summer, adding further excitement to the week’s events.
“Salvation Army Week on the Hill gives us an opportunity to speak to government and show them the breadth of our work, and ultimately to connect them to the mission of The Salvation Army in 400 communities across Canada,” says Major Zelinsky. “It’s about making our voice heard.”
EMERGENCY DISASTER SERVICES
Members of the Army’s modern slavery and human trafficking team meet with Shelby Kramp-Neuman, member of Parliament and chair of the Standing Committee on the Status of Women. From left, Stephen Moorgen, Tracy Desjarlais, Kramp-Neuman, Mjr Ray Lamont, Dianna Bussey and Jaclyn MacLean
Photo: Just Joy Imaging
(Above) From left, Commissioner Lee Graves, chancellor of Booth UC; Megan Vlok, bachelor of social work graduate; and Rev. (Dr.) Rob Fringer, president of Booth UC
(Left) Sharing in the sod-turning at the future site of the Catherine Booth Bible College in 1982 are, from left, then retired General Arnold Brown; William Norrie, mayor of Winnipeg; Lloyd Axworthy, member of Parliament; General Jarl Wahlstrom; and Comr John D. Waldron
Areyou contemplating your future as you near high school graduation? Do you want to gain advanced skills in a particular ministry discipline? The Salvation Army’s Booth University College might be right for you. Join hundreds of officers and thousands of students who have chosen Booth UC to launch their careers or enhance their academic standing to be better prepared to face a complex world.
In April, I participated in the 2024 Booth UC convocation ceremony in Winnipeg (read our report on page 5). As chancellor of Booth UC, it was my honour to award certificates and diplomas to those whose accomplishments were culminating in the joy of graduating from their chosen programs. I also had the privilege of installing Rev. (Dr.) Rob Fringer as president during the baccalaureate service and witnessed the installation of Dr. Linda Schwartz as vice-president, academic and dean. A determined and dedicated staff and faculty looked on as they keep their focus on their commitment to “Education for a Better World.”
As a cadet, I was one of the many who gathered for the college’s groundbreaking at the 1982 territorial congress in Winnipeg. There was a wonderful buzz of excitement with the thought that our territory would have its own higher education, degree-granting school. It was called Catherine Booth Bible College at first, then William and Catherine Booth College and, since 2010, Booth University College. Two young, accomplished academics and committed Salvationists, Donald Burke and James Read, joined Colonel Earl Robinson, the first president, and Colonel Benita Robinson, along with Captains Bruce and Kathleen Brydges, Bram Price, Gwen Holland, Renata Kroeker and Aux-Captains Evelyn and Russ Sutherland, as the journey of Catherine Booth Bible College commenced.
How grateful we are to the visionaries who inspired territorial leadership with a dream of what could be as the Canada and Bermuda Territory charted a course for Christian academic advancement, forever changing the dynamic of our movement. For more than 40 years, Booth UC has enriched the lives of countless people, equipped leaders for the rigours of ministry and service, and prepared students to make positive contributions in their communities.
A BETTER WORLD
Is Booth University College right for you?
BY COMMISSIONER LEE GRAVES
At home and around the world, Booth UC remains a vital piece of our strategy to fulfil our mission mandate. Throughout the years, presidents, faculty, staff and students have worked hard to embody the mission statement that carries us forward: “Booth University College is a Christian university college rooted in The Salvation Army’s Wesleyan theological tradition. It brings together Christian faith, rigorous scholarship and a passion for service. The university college educates students to understand the complexities of our world, to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to be active contributors to society and to know how Christian faith compels them to bring hope, social justice and mercy into our world.”
As I have travelled within our territory and internationally, I have been amazed by the number of people I’ve met who have encountered or graduated from Booth UC. Here is just a sampling: Major Shari Russell, our first territorial Indigenous ministries consultant, is one of hundreds of officers who are graduates. Dr. Isaiah Allen, who holds a bachelor’s degree from Booth UC, is now a New Testament scholar and assistant professor at the college. Marion Cooper is the chief executive officer of the Canadian Mental Health Association across Manitoba.
People readily share testimonies of the vital spiritual formation, practical preparation for embracing life and the transformational difference Booth UC made in their lives. This ever-growing fellowship of students and graduates speaks highly and fondly of their educational experiences. Booth UC offers programs in biblical and theological studies, Christian studies, chaplaincy and spiritual care, social work, leadership, business, behavioural science, and more. If you are looking for an intimate university college experience to prepare you for ministry and service, Booth UC could be for you.
At this year’s convocation ceremony, 88 women and men graduated, with 54 there in person to be publicly congratulated by family and friends. Graduands, having met all their requirements, were greeted by the president, chancellor and Booth UC board chair, and awarded their degrees and certificates. It was a joyous celebration.
Booth UC is a dynamic, thriving centre of educational excellence, ever striving to better serve the community, territory and international Salvation Army.
To learn more, visit BoothUC.ca.
COMMISSIONER LEE GRAVES is the territorial commander of the Canada and Bermuda Territory.
A CHORAL
CONVOCATION: HISTORY IN THE MAKING
Six staff songster brigades from across North America and the United Kingdom meet in Toronto for a weekend of praise and worship.
The eyes of the Salvation Army world were on Toronto in April as six staff songster brigades came together for A Choral Convocation. Special guests for the weekend were the International Staff Songsters (ISS) under the leadership of Dorothy Nancekievill, who were finishing their North American Songs of Love Tour in Toronto.
A capacity crowd gathered on Saturday, April 6, as the sounds of A Choral Convocation filled Yorkminster Park Baptist Church. The event was also enjoyed via live stream by Salvationists and friends from dozens of countries around the world, including Canada, Bermuda, the United States and the United Kingdom, and from as far afield
BY PAMELA RICHARDSON
as Australia, Costa Rica and Zimbabwe, virtually making this an international Salvation Army event.
Supporting the ISS were the host Canadian Staff Songsters (CSS), with Songster Leader Cathie Koehnen, and the four staff songster brigades from across the United States, the U.S.A. Western Territory Staff Songsters (WTSS), with Songster Leader Barbara Allen; the U.S.A. Southern Staff Songsters (SSS), with Songster Leader Robert Snelson; the U.S.A. Central Territorial Staff Songsters (CTSS), with Songster Leader Matthew Woods; and the U.S.A. Eastern Territory Staff Songsters (ETSS), with Songster Leader Erik Jones. The Canadian Staff Band ( CSB), under the leadership of
Bandmaster John Lam, presented a spectacular prelude and offered their musical support to the event.
The night before, the six songster brigades met at the Sheraton Parkway Toronto North Hotel for a celebration dinner and concert by the ISS. The event gave opportunity for the songsters, their leaders and executive officers to share with Commissioners Lee and Debbie Graves, territorial commander and territorial president of women’s ministries, and Colonels John and Lani Chamness, chief secretary and territorial secretary for spiritual life development. Also present for the occasion were General Brian Peddle (Rtd), Commissioner Rosalie Peddle and General Linda Bond (Rtd).
(Opposite page)
“I’M THANKFUL THAT GOD HAS PUT A SONG IN MY HEART AND HE’S GIVEN ME A VOICE TO SING IT.”
—JULIET PARKER
(Bottom) Heather Hetherington, daughter of General Arnold Brown, receives a plaque recognizing his establishment of the ISS in 1980 during his tenure as the Army’s international leader.
From left, Ruth Unwin, Dorothy Nancekievill, General Linda Bond (Rtd), Heather Hetherington, Commissioner Lee Graves and General Brian Peddle (Rtd)
(Below) From left, Staff Songster Leaders Matthew Woods, CTSS; Barbara Allen, WTSS; Dorothy Nancekievill, ISS; Robert Snelson, SSS; Cathie Koehnen, CSS; and Erik Jones, ETSS
Participants in A Choral Convocation at Yorkminster Park Baptist Church in Toronto
ISS member Juliet Parker shares her testimony at Yorkminster Citadel
U.S.A. Southern Staff Songsters
(Circle) Commissioner Lee Graves shares from God’s Word
Photos: Mark Yan
(Below) U.S.A. Central Territorial Staff Songsters
During the celebration dinner, ISS member Ruth Unwin was recognized for her 44 years of faithful—and ongoing—service to the brigade. As a charter member of the ISS, Unwin has been singing with the group since its formation in 1980.
SONGS OF PRAISE
A Choral Convocation began with a presentation by the ISS of Benjamin Harlan’s Make a Joyful Noise. With words adapted from Psalm 100, the lively song reminded those gathered of the goodness of the Lord and his everlasting mercy and truth.
Lt-Colonel John Murray, territorial secretary for communications and executive officer of the CSS, expressed words of welcome and prayed God’s blessing on all that would transpire. The congregation then stood to sing Praise, My Soul, The King of Heaven, arranged especially for the event by Captain Nicholas Samuel, corps officer at Halifax West Community Church.
Throughout the Choral Convocation, the ISS expertly presented a variety of selections, including Ubi Caritas, a traditional Latin antiphon with music by Ola
Gjeilo, Sandi Patti’s In the Name of the Lord and Joseph Martin’s You Are the Song.
In turn, each of the supporting brigades took their place on the altar steps of the majestic Yorkminster Park Baptist Church to offer songs of praise to the Lord. Among their musical contributions were Shaun Craig’s In Christ Alone by the WTSS, Robert Snelson’s Psalm 24 by the SSS, Mark Hayes’ Far Above All by the CTSS, Craig Courtney’s Who But the Lord? by the ETSS, and Larry Nickel’s Working With Joy by the CSS
It was a special moment in the program when Heather Hetherington, daughter of the late General Arnold Brown, received a plaque recognizing his establishment of the ISS in 1980 during his tenure as the Army’s international leader.
GIFT OF SALVATION
A highlight of the Choral Convocation was the presentation of the Hallelujah Chorus from Handel’s Messiah by the massed songsters and the CSB, under the
leadership of Major Len Ballantine, former leader of both the ISS and CSS. Later in the program, the groups again joined to share Major Ballantine’s Behold the Tabernacle of God, a moving and descriptive work based directly on the words of Revelation 21:3-4.
Following the ISS’ presentation of John Stainer’s God So Loved the World, Commissioner Lee Graves shared a devotional message on the gift of salvation, which the Apostle Paul says is indescribable. “Paul would further make the statement that it’s a love that surpasses our knowledge,” he said, but assured his listeners that salvation is available to all.
As the evening concluded, the massed songsters again took to the stage to sing The Lord Bless You and Keep You, a familiar benediction from the Book of Numbers, with music from John Rutter.
(Circle) CSS Leader Cathie Koehnen
(Below) ISS Leader Dorothy Nancekievill
U.S.A. Western Territory Staff Songsters
The Canadian Staff Songsters
Photos: Mark Yan
Before sharing a closing prayer, Cathie Koehnen thanked each of the visiting groups and the CSB for their support and participation in A Choral Convocation. “We thank you for sharing this music and creating space for us to enter into worship with you,” she said. Turning her attention to the congregation, she continued, “We sing and we make music because we love to express our faith in Jesus Christ. If you haven’t experienced being in relationship with Jesus Christ, then we pray that the words that have been sung, and the music we have shared, may have touched your heart and caused you to reflect and to consider who Jesus is.”
The final selection of the evening featured the massed songsters and the CSB sharing Richard Smallwood’s Total Praise. As the last notes of this powerful song of celebration and exultant worship echoed throughout the sanctuary, those gathered for A Choral Convocation were blessed and reminded of the goodness of God.
BEYOND THE CHORAL CONVOCATION
A significant part of the Choral Convocation weekend was the staff songsters’ participation in ministry opportunities across southern Ontario, including Sunday worship services at Toronto’s Yorkminster Citadel (ISS and CSS), Guelph Citadel (CTSS), Hamilton’s Meadowlands Corps (ETSS), Mississauga Community Church (SSS) and Aurora’s Northridge Community Church (WTSS).
At Yorkminster Citadel, ISS member Juliet Parker shared her testimony of growing up in The Salvation Army, starting in the singing company. After their Songs of Love Tour and the Choral Convocation, she said, “I have a renewed passion for vocal music. I’m thankful that God has put a song in my heart and he’s given me a voice to sing it.”
Sunday afternoon musicales took place at Yorkminster Citadel and Mississauga Community Church, and individual groups engaged in visitation and music ministry at Toronto Grace
“WE SING AND WE MAKE MUSIC BECAUSE WE LOVE TO EXPRESS OUR FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST.”
—CATHIE KOEHNEN
Health Centre (ISS), Toronto’s Meighen Retirement Residence (ETSS), and the Village of Arbour Trails and the Elliott Community in Guelph (CTSS).
“The passion for ministry, dedication, collective spirits and musical talent of the staff songster brigades enriched this historic Choral Convocation weekend,” concludes Lt-Colonel Murray. “Their musical offerings were a testament to the transformative power of God’s music and its ability to touch hearts and uplift souls.”
Western Territory Staff
(Bottom left) The ISS present the ABBA-inspired Coming King during Friday evening’s celebration dinner and concert at the Sheraton Parkway Toronto North Hotel (Left) U.S.A. Eastern Territory Staff Songsters (Below) U.S.A.
Songsters
(Left) Ruth Unwin is recognized for her 44 years of faithful—and ongoing—service to the ISS since its formation in 1980. From left, Dorothy Nancekievill, General Linda Bond (Rtd), Ruth Unwin, Comr Rosalie Peddle and General Brian Peddle (Rtd)
WONDERFULLY MADE
U.S.A. Western Territory’s Adaptive Retreat invites people of all abilities to worship God.
BY ABBIGAIL OLIVER AND HILLARY JACKSON
Inside the chapel on the Crestmont Campus in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, colourful ribbons were waving, beach balls were flying and Jon Psaute was on stage signing Friend of God in American Sign Language as part of the worship band for the U.S.A. Western Territory’s second Adaptive Retreat.
The Adaptive Retreat, held in April, invited attendees to “Bloom Boldly,” creating space for worship and joy. According to Major Nancy Helms, director of disabilities ministries for the U.S.A. Western Territory, the weekend is a glimpse into the kingdom of God the way she thinks God intended us to experience it. The World Health Organization reports that members of the disability community represent an estimated 16 percent of the world’s population, making them the largest marginalized group—one that is often excluded from the church, too.
“This is a more full picture,” says Major Helms. “That excites me, because I think we all benefit from that—giving seats of honour to the people Jesus told us to, and I think God’s honouring it. It’s just a beautiful picture of what the body of Christ should look like. We’re missing a lot of parts. When you come to events like this, the body’s way more complete.”
This year, 27 delegates attended the retreat, including two from Canada (along with their caregivers). Major Pamela Maynor, director of mission and ministry training at the College for Officer Training in the U.S.A. Eastern Territory, was the guest speaker for the weekend.
“I think this community is so often not included in church services, not out of a want to exclude, but out of an ignorance of knowing how to include,” Major Maynor says. “This not only embraces this community, but in a way, welcomes us into their community to learn from them.”
Over three sessions, Major Maynor spoke about being fearfully and wonderfully made, blooming with the body of Christ and sharing your beauty. “Worship was so free,” she says. “There were no judgments, just worship.”
In addition to the main sessions, attendees participated in a variety of activities, such as choir, karaoke, movie nights and shared meals. Throughout the weekend, care was given to create spaces to accommodate a range of needs for the delegates, such as offering ear plugs and creating lower-stimulation areas. Additionally, time was dedicated for caregivers to connect.
Every caregiver’s experience is different, says Gerriann Armstrong, noting she’s attended the retreat with her son both years. “The best part is seeing the growth, and then the connection with people who understand,” says Armstrong, who believes it’s time to consider what’s next. With many delegates who have aged or are aging out of activities designed for those under 18, what exists for them?
“There’s this group of 18- to 35-yearolds that we need to be looking at,” she says. “Where do they fit within our corps? Where do they fit within our organization and our churches? What can we do to make sure that we’re promoting that inclusivity in our community?”
Major Helms says many people have misconceptions about having a disability ministry. “We think a disability ministry is this hard, impossible thing. But as you can see from this retreat, it’s not hard to do,” she says. “Even though there were people there with probably 20 different disabilities, everybody had a place at the table. They all worshipped in their own way, and that’s beautiful.”
BLOOMING BOLDLY
Many Christians have various teachers, religious leaders and spiritual mentors who speak into their faith and encourage
Photos: John Docter
Worship at the Adaptive Retreat came in all forms, including colourful ribbons, singing and pirate skits
them as they grow as believers. For Canadian Salvationist Josh McDonald, his primary teacher of faith has always been his mom, Captain Kristen Gray, who is the corps and community ministries officer in Woodstock, Ont. Together, Josh and Captain Gray attended this year’s Adaptive Retreat where he shared his testimony (see sidebar) and sang his own rendition of You’ve Got a Friend In Me from Toy Story at karaoke night.
“Josh never ‘fit’ in Sunday school classes or other corps activities because they can be socially uncomfortable for him. So, to see him at the Adaptive Retreat surrounded by people who made the effort to create an inclusive space for him made my heart so happy,” says Captain Gray. “There was no expectation that he behave a certain way or participate in every activity. He was simply allowed to be himself and to ‘bloom boldly’ exactly as he was comfortable.”
For Captain Gray, the theme “Bloom Boldly” taught delegates that they are uniquely and beautifully made by God, valued by God and others, and that each person has an important purpose.
“I think the overarching message Josh learned was that God loves him exactly as he is, despite the differences he or others may see,” she says.
THE BODY OF CHRIST
“People living with disabilities are an important part of the body of Christ,” says Captain Carolina Valencia, assistant corps life director, territorial corps mission department, who attended the Adaptive Retreat with her daughter, Natalie Valencia. “Not having them involved or included means the body of Christ is incomplete.”
At the retreat, Natalie was able to naturally mingle with peers and share in worship with others that also live with an intellectual disability. According to Captain Valencia, it is important to create these safe, inclusive and accommodating spaces for every person to practise their faith, as well as to create opportunities to raise awareness about people living with different abilities.
“We can follow the example set out by the U.S.A. Western Territory and invest in opportunities such as programs, camps and retreats for people with disabilities and their families, accommodating their needs and removing every possible obstacle so that they can experience the church community as any other person would,” she says.
For mission partners, corps members and friends seeking to support people with different abilities, Captain Valencia
offers practical advice: hire them, have them as part of ministry boards, invite them to be part of church ministries, and be their friends and supporters. Invite them to share about their life and spirituality, and sit with them and listen to their stories. Offer support and respite to their caregivers.
“So often we impose limits on people with disabilities when they don’t fit into our norms, rather than allowing their abilities to shine,” explains Captain Gray. “It’s also a challenge for us as leaders to make our churches fully inclusive because disability comes in so many different shapes and sizes. It’s difficult to know how to accommodate all. But Jesus himself demonstrated to us that he prioritized ministry to the outcasts of society.”
As a parent, Captain Gray feels that the Adaptive Retreat was a large step in the right direction toward inclusive ministry. “We’re not going to overcome all the challenges and barriers overnight, but we need to demonstrate that we are making efforts to ensure that everyone made in the image of God finds their rightful place in his kingdom.”
JOSH’S TESTIMONY
I live with my mom who is a Salvation Army officer and we have lived in four different places in Canada since my mom became a pastor. This includes three places in Ontario and one in Saskatchewan. I do not recommend going to Saskatchewan because it is freezing cold there in the wintertime.
I am very thankful to God for my family which includes my mom, my dad and stepmom, my grandparents and my brother. My brother’s name is Andrew, and he has three daughters—Lexzie, Lylah and Leighton. Leighton just turned five years old on April Fool’s Day. I like to spend time with all my family, and especially enjoy visits with my dad and his dogs, my nieces, and going to Tim Hortons with my grandpa.
Being social is sometimes hard for me but I am thankful for the opportunities that God gives me to make new friends at the programs I go to back home, and to come to California for this retreat to meet some new people and have fun.
A group photo of delegates, caregivers and volunteers at the Adaptive Retreat
Natalie Valencia (right) travelled from Canada to attend the Adaptive Retreat with her mother, Cpt Carolina Valencia
The Home Front is a new series where we highlight the mission and ministry taking place around our territory. We will visit each Canadian province and territory, as well as Bermuda, and celebrate the innovation and impact the Army is having in corps, social services and youth ministry.
AT A GLANCE
LT-COLONEL DONALD BLADEN Divisional commander
LT-COLONEL DONNA BLADEN Divisional officer personnel secretary and divisional spiritual life development secretary
WILD ROSE COUNTRY
Three stories of community outreach in Alberta.
BY GISELLE RANDALL
CRAFT AND CHAT IN RED DEER, ALTA.
Seed, moss, berry. Rib, garter, herringbone. Do you know what these are? If you guessed knitting stitches, you’re right! You’d learn this and more at the Craft and Chat group at The Salvation Army’s Red Deer Church and Community and Family Services, Alta., which started as a way to bring people together after the pandemic.
“People had been so isolated,” says Major Dena Hepditch, who serves with her husband, Major Kent Hepditch, as the corps officers in Red Deer. “Especially seniors, because not all of them had the technology of the younger generation to stay connected. So, we decided to just open our doors and welcome the community to a drop-in café.”
Every Wednesday, they brewed some coffee, put out a plate of sweets, and set up tables with a variety of activities: card and board games, puzzles, adult colouring books, and a basket with knitting needles and yarn. Word soon spread and people from the community began to attend, many bringing their knitting or crocheting with them.
“That seemed to be what took off,” says Major Hepditch. A few months after starting the community café, they added Craft and Chat, opening earlier in the day twice a
month to give people time to work on their creative projects, such as knitting, sewing, quilting and scrapbooking. Participants often learn from each other and share patterns. They have also contributed to programs at the corps. At Christmas, they made stockings and filled them for Christmas hampers. In the spring, they raised funds for Partners in Mission (PIM) by asking family and friends to sponsor them to make crocheted granny squares, which were then sewn into blankets and donated to an emergency shelter. And they sold crafts at a vendor market to go toward the corps’ school feeding program.
Although most of the participants don’t attend the corps, they are building connections as they form relationships. Many of them came on the last Sunday of the PIM campaign, when Majors Hepditch announced the total amount raised and prayed a blessing on those who would receive the blankets.
“This place is becoming more like home to them,” Major Hepditch says. “So many of them have said that they don’t know what they would have done if they hadn’t discovered this group, because this is their main social time.”
From left, Mjr Dena Hepditch, Phyllis MacDonnell and Jo-Anne DeVries. MacDonnell crocheted the squares for this blanket and DeVries joined them together
Alberta
THE BUNKER IN ST. ALBERT, ALTA.
A bunker is a place of safety. So, when Captains Bhreagh and Daniel Rowe, community ministries officer and corps officer, respectively, at St. Albert Church and Community Centre, Alta., wanted to reach out to youth in the community, “The Bunker” seemed like the perfect name for the new program. They brought on Andrew and Natasha Waine as youth outreach worker and community outreach worker, respectively, who have a passion for working with children and youth.
“We want the youth who attend to know it’s a safe space where they can be themselves,” says Andrew. “I love connecting and building relationships with them and being a positive role model. I had quite a few mentors, people who poured into my life, and now I want to do that for others, to be part of filling their bucket.”
They started by opening up the gym at the corps on Tuesday afternoons for basketball, and then created another drop-in time on Thursdays with sports, video games, a big-screen movie, a quiet study space and a concession stand. Once a month, they have separate groups for girls and guys with activities and snacks. They also run a basketball camp over spring break and a leadership academy in the summer, with field trips and service opportunities.
Since getting underway in 2021, they’ve had more than 150 youth, from Grades 7 to 12, attend one of the programs, with an average of 15 to 20 per event—all kids from the community, because the congregation is mostly made up of older people. So, Andrew and Natasha take an implicit approach to sharing faith to maintain an open and welcoming atmosphere.
“They know they’re coming to a church, and we play Christian music,” says Andrew. “Our drop-in is about building relationships so they know they can talk to us.”
But as part of The Bunker, they also do outreach programs. This past spring, they partnered with another church to run the Alpha course at a school, with more than 60 kids—many of whom also come to the drop-in—attending.
PICKLEBALL IN LETHBRIDGE,
Over the past few years, a backyard game for children has become one of the fastest growing sports in North America—pickleball! A cross between tennis and table tennis, pickleball is a fun, fast-paced game played with paddles and a hollow plastic ball, on an indoor or outdoor court. It’s so popular that finding courts to play on can be difficult.
When Lieutenant Zachary Marshall heard that the Rotary Club in Lethbridge, Alta., was looking for space to play, he offered the basement of their corps, which has a gym that wasn’t being used regularly. They liked the space, marked out a court and within two weeks people were coming to play.
“But what has been really neat is that they are trying to fill as much court time as possible to raise money for our community and family services,” says Lieutenant Marshall, who serves with his wife, Lieutenant Julia Marshall, as the corps officers and community services officers at Lethbridge Community Church. “They want to help us keep doing the good work we do in the community.”
Andrew and Natasha both grew up in the church, where they experienced a sense of community at youth group, and they’re excited to be sharing that experience and providing a consistent Christian presence in the lives of young people.
“I’m passionate about mentoring young girls, to help them through life, find their uniqueness and grow,” says Natasha.
Now, anywhere from 40 to 80 people play pickleball at The Salvation Army every week. At first it was just members of the Rotary Club, but it quickly grew to include others in the community. And as Lieutenant Marshall shows people how to access the court, he’s able to explain how the money from the court rental—which brings in about $500 a week—supports the Army’s work.
“People say, ‘I had no idea that this is what The Salvation Army is doing,’ ” he says.
This partnership has become a shared vision, with the Rotary Club also offering to teach seniors and youth at the corps how to play and to reach out to other Rotary Clubs with the idea. And there’s still room for growth—with space to double the number of rental groups, and the income.
It’s also opening the door to conversations about faith. “I’ve had some good conversations about what it means to be a Christian with someone from the Rotary Club,” says Lieutenant Marshall. “Over Easter, he saw we were doing a devotional time in the sanctuary, and asked what it was all about. I don’t think we would have had that opportunity if it wasn’t for them using the building.”
Shooting hoops at The Bunker, a youth drop-in program at St. Albert Church and Community Centre, Alta.
Lt Zachary Marshall, CO, Lethbridge CC., on the pickleball court
ALTA.
Photo: Katherine Kuzminski
Photo: Andrew Waine
Lt-Colonels
Andrew and Darlene Morgan are no strangers to international service, having spent more than half of their officership outside their home country of Canada. Since September 2022, they have been territorial leaders for Italy and Greece, and in this interview with Kristin Ostensen, managing editor, they reflect on the most pressing social issues these countries face, the Army’s relationship with the Catholic Church, and how God is at work and changing lives in this territory.
Can you tell me about your journey to international service?
Darlene Morgan: In 1991, I was working as a dental hygienist and I was cleaning the teeth of a young woman who was coming back from serving in Africa, and she was on her way to training college with her husband. And while I was listening to her story, it was as if a light went on. God said to me very clearly: you can serve me outside Canada. And so, I went home and told Andrew.
Andrew Morgan: Within days, a very clear message came through the words of a song from The Musical Salvationist: “Here am I, my Lord; send me.” We talked about it, prayed about it, and then contacted territorial headquarters. Six months later, we were in Budapest, Hungary.
How would you describe The Salvation Army in Italy and Greece?
DM: Here in Italy, very early on, we were struck by the passion of our officers for evangelism. There’s really a sense that evangelical Christians have something different to offer. The reality of relationship
WHEN IN
ROME
Canadian officers share how God is moving in Italy and Greece.
with Jesus is so important—that’s the most important message to give people.
AM: Until recently, the Italy and Greece Territory had been a command. So, one of the largest challenges we face is bringing about the changes in our governance structures and business practices that are required by the change to territorial status. A lot of the practical work I’ve been doing as territorial commander is helping to raise our profile in Italian society, ensuring that we are nationally viable and recognized.
In Greece, the Army is present in two cities: Athens and Thessaloniki. Each city has a corps and both are led by an officer couple who are Greek nationals. That’s a tremendous forward step—we’re very happy with that!
Where do you see the most opportunities for ministry?
AM: In the fall of our first year, we visited every corps and ministry unit in our territory and that was very helpful. Based on our observations from that tour, we realized there were three areas of need within society that The Salvation Army is equipped to respond to, and those are food, family and faith.
In terms of food: we have food banks and feeding programs. There are people who are hungry, not unlike the reality in our home country, so that’s a priority. Food is also so fundamental to Italian culture, gathering around the table for big family
(Above) Lt-Col Andrew Morgan preaches at an ecumenical service during the 2024 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in Rome (Centre) Lt-Col Darlene Morgan hard at work at THQ in Rome
meals. Food and family go hand in hand. So, those who don’t have family have an opportunity to be included in a family of believers through Salvation Army corps. And of course, we do all this because of the faith we have in Jesus Christ. This is not just a faith of a Sunday ritual observance, but a faith that is alive and active.
How is the Army addressing social issues?
AM: In Italy, we’re best known for our large social services centre in Rome. We have 285 beds, residential programming in various capacities, a kitchen that provides meals every day, and we have social workers on staff. We have a small residential program in Florence, and some other properties that were used in responding to a migrant crisis in the south of the country that we’re now looking to repurpose to address needs there.
In Athens, The Salvation Army has a human trafficking response program called the Green Light Project. If you think of a red-light district, we’re offering a “green light” opportunity for those who are looking for assistance and a way out. Our work in this area is widely recognized
for its best practices, such that we now have a partnership with a medical team who provide care to individuals in the area we operate in. In the red-light district, there are people who would not go to a hospital if they needed care because they would not be welcomed there and would be discriminated against. And so, our team of doctors and nurses will go and do triage and medical care on the street with us. That partnership further solidifies our place in social services in Athens. The level of trust extended to The Salvation Army is significant.
Where do you see God at work in your territory?
DM: For me, it’s the way our officers are committed to presenting the gospel. They are engaged in one-on-one ministry, whether that’s in the marketplace or the thrift store, wherever—that relationshipbuilding is foundational. At headquarters, I see God at work as he guides us to serve with excellence and correctness. God is opening doors for us and closing doors that need to be closed.
AM: One real issue that we don’t want to skirt or turn a blind eye to is corruption, which is a reality in many different areas. By this I mean the ways of working around the system to avoid engagement with government or taxes, for example. We are saying, no, we have to work above board in all things. Right at the beginning of our appointments, we established four pillars under which we would operate: honesty, integrity, transparency and accountability.
FROM DAY ONE, IT’S BEEN A SENSE OF TOTAL DEPENDENCE ON GOD.
—LT-COLONEL DARLENE MORGAN
And for the most part, this approach has been well received, and it’s helping to bring about a change of culture within our ministry and within the opportunities we have here.
Italy is a predominantly Roman Catholic country, while Greece officially recognizes the Orthodox Church as the “prevailing religion” there. What is it like being The Salvation Army in that context?
(Above) Lt-Cols Morgan support an officers’ retreat in Ischia, Italy
(Right) Greek officers welcome Lt-Cols Morgan
AM: In addition to being the territorial commander, I’m also the General’s representative to the Vatican. And the opportunities that provides are absolutely tremendous. The Salvation Army, internationally, has an ongoing dialogue with the Roman Catholic Church, and we hold a four- or five-day set of talks annually to discuss matters of theology and Christian faith and practice. And being in Rome, there are many other denominations that have a representative here. So, from an ecumenical perspective, I stand as a peer with them and have the opportunity to represent The Salvation Army and be our voice.
That said, the challenges of being a Protestant denomination in a Roman Catholic country are very real. We visited a former officer commanding a year ago—she was 99 years old, and she was imprisoned when she was 16 because of her faith. Fortunately, things are different today, but there are many people who carry wounds and hurts because of the Protestant faith that they professed.
In Greece, we have some limitations on our ability to preach the gospel publicly. It’s not an easy place to do ministry. But there are opportunities to partner with other Christians, and that’s something we are enjoying as part of our day-to-day ministry in Italy and Greece.
What have been some of the highlights of your appointments so far?
AM: Darlene and I have met the Pope on a
number of occasions. That doesn’t happen every day as a Salvation Army officer!
DM: For me, a highlight is just being part of The Salvation Army in Italy, taking part in their life and faith community. For example, when we’re visiting a corps, after the service they might have an “agape” meal—a potluck—that can go on for three or four hours. To be part of the Italian Salvationist culture is quite a privilege. Rome is very multinational, and at the Rome corps, we have open prayer time with prayers in Italian, Spanish, French, English, Portuguese. It’s really beautiful, like a foretaste of heaven.
And how is God moving in your lives as you minister in this territory?
DM: From day one, it’s been a sense of total dependence on God. He has to show us the way because there’s so much work to be done and it seems so complex. He reminds me every day that I have to rely completely on him.
AM: Having declared publicly that we as The Salvation Army would strive to live under the pillars of honesty, integrity, transparency and accountability, I am dependent upon God’s equipping me, so that I can live out those values and be an example to those I lead. I believe that God is blessing our efforts, and we thank him for it and give him the glory.
Listen to the full interview with Lt-Colonels Morgan on the Salvationist Podcast at salvationist.ca/podcast.
The Way
Preparing for the descent off the Pyrenees Mountains toward Roncesvalles, Spain
A Salvationist’s experience of walking the legendary Camino de Santiago.
BY SALLY HILL
My day begins before the sun rises as I hear the first pilgrim rustling around the albergue (hostel). I get up, swing on my backpack, put on my headlamp, say a prayer and start walking. At the first open café, I have a quick breakfast, then continue walking—a relentless ascent and descent on hard pavement and rocky paths, in the heat, in the rain, in the cold, until I reach my destination some 20-30 kilometres later.
The day ends with finding a place to stay and, hopefully, a hot shower. After laundering a few clothes that never seem to come out clean, I rest and elevate my feet. Then dinner, followed by sleep. I repeat this routine the next day and the next.
Life on the Camino is simple. My only job is to walk and be grateful.
THE WAY OF ST. JAMES
For a thousand years, people have walked the legendary Camino de Santiago, experiencing the spirit of the Camino and life as a pilgrim. Camino de Santiago means “the way of St. James,” and is the name given to a network of ancient pilgrim routes that lead to the tomb of St. James in Santiago de Compostela, the capital of the Galicia region in Spain.
Although there are dozens of routes, one of the most common is the Camino Frances, or the French Way, which begins in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, France, before crossing the Pyrenees Mountains into Spain. This is where most of the medieval European pilgrimage paths converge, and where I began my journey on September 5, 2023. Every step along the way brought new discoveries and unforgettable memories.
More than 500,000 people walk the Camino de Santiago every year. A pilgrim who walks a minimum of 100 kilometres on any route earns the compostela (certificate of accomplishment). You don’t really need a map to walk the Camino—the route is marked by yellow arrows painted on signposts. You will also often see a scallop shell, which has become an iconic symbol for the Camino—with many stories, myths and legends to explain why. Most pilgrims choose to wear a scallop shell on their backpack to show that they are a pilgrim.
On October 10, after 35 days and 700 kilometres, I reached Santiago de Compostela. It was one of the most life-changing experiences I’ve had.
Day 1 SAINT-JEAN-PIED-DEPORT TO ORISSON
This morning, I left Saint-JeanPied-de-Port, France, and started my trek to Orisson before the day got too hot. It was only 7.5 kilometres away, but it took me more than four hours as I began the climb over the Pyrenees. I was rewarded with a glorious sunrise and a breathtaking view of the mountains. I arrived at the albergue—a hostel for pilgrims—to rest for the big descent tomorrow. What goes up, must come down. I am off to Roncesvalles, Spain, tomorrow—a 25-kilometre walk.
Day 16
FRÓMISTA TO CARRIÓN DE LOS CONDES
I left Frómista in the dark. It was chilly, then hot. The mostly gravel trail turned to pavement, then to wet soil, then to mud. It was hard on my knees. When I arrived at Carrión de los Condes, the café was closed, which means I had to walk several more kilometres. Walking the Camino isn’t always pretty and walking in the dark can be unnerving. The Camino is hard, but amazing and spectacular at the same time. I see the sun rising. I smell the fertilizer as I walk by wide open fields. Then I finally reach the quaint little town with its beautiful church and get a chance to rest for a moment.
Day 35
SANTIAGO DE
COMPOSTELA
Arriving at Santiago de Compostela was an overwhelming feeling. My eyes welled up with tears as I attended the Pilgrim’s Mass and witnessed the swinging of the famous Botafumeiro in the cathedral. After the quietness and solitude of the Camino, this city overwhelms me. I also had to say an emotional farewell to my walking sticks. They served me well.
PORTO, PORTUGAL Day 37
The most beautiful things in life are not material things. They are people, places and laughter along the way and no doubt we’ve had all of them and then some these past few weeks. What makes our last night in Porto special before heading home? Millions of people here and running into friends we’ve met along “The Way.”
WALKING WITH GOD
People walk the Camino for many different reasons. For some, it is a spiritual quest or a religious journey. For others, it is the need for time alone, to enjoy a period of reflection and inner peace, to unplug from everyday life and recharge in nature. Some look at it as a physical challenge, the feeling of “I did this for myself, by myself, on my own.”
For me, walking the Camino was a spiritual experience that allowed me to deepen my faith and connect with God. It was indeed a journey of faith, humility and trust. It can be a daunting prospect to travel to a foreign land to walk with random strangers. Walking across a country—following yellow arrows, trusting the path—is not your average holiday.
WALKING
ACROSS A COUNTRY— FOLLOWING YELLOW ARROWS, TRUSTING THE PATH—IS NOT YOUR AVERAGE HOLIDAY.
But God called me to this journey and prepared the way and my heart. About six weeks before departure, I debated whether to cancel my trip due to a knee injury. With a combination of physical therapy and a lot of prayers, my knee healed enough for me to walk.
On the Camino, I prayed for God to guide my steps along the way. I trusted him on the most challenging parts of the journey. Each challenge was an opportunity for growth. God does provide everything you need. There were churches in every town, but I saw Christ in the faces of the couple who offered us a ride, in the gentleman who offered me half of his sandwich because I said I was hungry, in the woman who offered me antihistamines. He was everywhere.
I felt God’s presence as I walked through forests and over the mountains, my mind at rest. I listened to the gentle breeze, the rustling of the leaves, feeling the hot sun on my face. There was no need to listen to music, like I usually do while walking in Canada. I was content in peaceful silence, knowing that God was walking with me.
MOVING FORWARD
The Camino gives you a deep sense of self that comes from learning how to be uncomfortable while still moving forward and maintaining a positive attitude. Every day on the Camino was a challenge and, at the same time, a privilege and joy. It is said that you just need to survive the first 10 days of the Camino, and the body and mind will adapt. How true that statement was. The Camino makes you realize how strong you are. I felt my backpack and trekking poles become an extension of my body.
Each day we had to focus on taking care of ourselves to make it to the next destination. Foot care was the top priority, along with trying to eat healthy meals and sleep—which could be challenging in dorm-style hostels. I was thankful for earplugs. A private room with real bed sheets and towels was heavenly. After blisters, occasional bedbugs were the bane of every pilgrim’s life—it does happen. But that’s all part of the Camino and you learn how to embrace it.
Not one day did I complain or wish I had not been there, even on the hardest day. I thanked God for every day I woke up and was healthy and able to walk. Every day was a testament to resilience and determination. I felt a sense of profound accomplishment for each day completed.
GOOD JOURNEY
But the Camino is so much more than walking. It’s also about the people you meet from all around the world. The simplicity of the days, the kindness of people along the way. Sharing a meal as total strangers and becoming friends, then wishing each other buen camino (good journey). People come in and out of your life on the Camino.
There were many solo female pilgrims on the Camino, from a wide range of ages and stages in life. I met a woman in her 70s walking her fourth Camino. Some had never travelled alone before but were unable to find a travel companion and faced the choice of missing out on the adventure of a lifetime or being brave and going alone.
I walked with one gentleman from the United States who had cancer and another from Germany who was slow because he’d had surgery on his leg. Whenever he reached his destination, long after everyone else, he was met with cheers.
I also met a couple walking to honour their son, who had always wanted to walk the Camino but had passed away before he could. So many incredible people and interesting stories. I prayed for my fellow pilgrims every day.
THE JOURNEY CONTINUES
When I returned to Canada, the first few weeks were disorienting. After sleeping in so many different beds, I woke up in the middle of the night wondering where I was, before realizing I was at home. I stared in my closet, unable to decide what to wear, before remembering how little I needed on the Camino. I took forever to get out the door for my morning walk, when I could get myself out of bed, strap on that heavy backpack and be out the door in 10 minutes on my trip.
On the Camino, you accept the challenges. You wait patiently while a herd of sheep crosses your path. Here, I groan because I hit a red light.
You learn to appreciate the simple joys, like finding a stale pastry in your backpack. You enjoy and savour it like it’s the best thing you’ve had all day— because when you’re hungry, it is.
I don’t know why the Camino brought out the best version of myself. It must be the dust in Spain. How do I become that person at home? Indeed, it is when we are back home that the real Camino begins. There are no yellow arrows to guide me, but Jesus will.
SALLY HILL is a senior soldier, young people’s co-ordinator and administrative assistant at The Salvation Army Georgina Community Church, Ont.
A joyous arrival at the Cathedral de Santiago
This April, Lillian “Lil” McLeod celebrated an impressive milestone as a Salvationist—96 years on the Salvation Army roll at Medicine Hat Community Church, Alta., and 80 years as a senior soldier.
Since she was a child, Lil has been a dedicated member of the corps in Medicine Hat and supporter of The Salvation Army, and she continues to live out her faith through the gifts of the Spirit: hospitality, service and giving.
“Growing up, I remember my mom actively living out her soldiership,” says Lil’s daughter Major Margaret McLeod, who is the assistant training principal and mission and ministry formation co-ordinator at the College for Officer Training in Toronto. “At the time I was too young to understand what that meant. But looking back, I see it in the way that she offered her gifts within the church. She took on leadership opportunities, offered rides to senior citizens and a place at our family dinner table—particularly on holidays because she didn’t want anyone to be alone.
“I DO BELIEVE HER WALK WITH GOD IS STRENGTHENING IN HER GOLDEN YEARS.” —MAJOR MARGARET MCLEOD
“Mom’s older now and her ability to live out her soldiership has changed,” continues Major Margaret. “She’s not driving, she’s not making meals or inviting people into her home anymore. But she continues to be thoughtful and caring, and she doesn’t want anyone left alone when she could provide something for them. I do believe her walk with God is strengthening in her golden years.”
“
A GOOD ADVENTURE”
Lillian McLeod celebrates a lifetime of Salvation Army service.
BY ABBIGAIL OLIVER
CHURCH ROOTS
Lil was born in 1927 as a third-generation Salvationist. Her grandmother, an officer in England in the early days of The Salvation Army, came to Canada at the start of the 1900s. Lil’s mother, Elizabeth Whitrid, married her father, Bill Wilson, whose family was associated with the Army in Medicine Hat.
As the middle of three sisters, Lil remembers being actively involved in the corps alongside her family. She was a part of the Sunbeams and Guards groups, a member of junior and senior bands, and she would often babysit children from the church, including officers’ kids whose parents were busy with corps duties.
As she grew older, Lil began to take on leadership roles such as teaching children about the Bible and The Salvation Army through directory classes. Later, she participated in the corps’ Brownie pack as an assistant Brown Owl and then Brown Owl, a position that she held for 25 years. She also assisted with the home league ministry at the Medicine Hat corps, serving as home league secretary for 25 years, and was acting corps treasurer for a brief time.
In 1955, Lil married Murray McLeod, and together they had four children, Kathy, Bob, Bill and Margaret. Though Murray grew up attending the United Church, the two decided to raise their family in The Salvation Army, and their children grew up attending the Medicine Hat corps as their mother had.
“Growing up in The Salvation Army, I learned about a personal faith in Jesus and watched it being lived out by my parents and mentors,” says Major Margaret. “I was really fortunate to have Spirit-filled, influential people in my life who continually guided me on my Christian journey.”
CELEBRATING LEGACY
In April 2024, family, friends and many members of the congregation at Medicine Hat Community Church came together to celebrate and honour Lil’s 80 years of soldiership. Following a church service, the congregation was invited to stay for lunch and fellowship, supported by then corps officers Majors Norman and Cindy Hamelin. On display were Lil’s memories of her life as a soldier, including her Articles of War and photos of Lil as a young Salvationist.
“At Mom’s request the celebration was low key. She was thrilled to have her children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren present—it was a proud moment for her to have family at church with her,” says Major Margaret. “We sang her favourite songs, and friends from her social circle were able to attend the service. She was thrilled.”
During the celebration, when asked what advice she would give to someone who might be considering soldiership, Lil’s response was simple: “Go ahead! It is a good adventure and will bring you close to God.”
(Top) Lillian “Lil” McLeod (front) with her children, from left, Kathy, Bill, Mjr Margaret and Bob
(Circle) Young Lil McLeod in her Salvation Amy uniform
(Left) Lil first signed her senior soldier’s Articles of War on April 9, 1944
WE ARE MISSION
Our calling is to live out God’s purposes in the world.
BY LT-COLONEL LES MARSHALL
Inrecent months, our team in the mission department at territorial headquarters (THQ)—which includes corps mission, community mission and social mission—has been hearing me chant the phrase, “We Are Mission!” as a rallying cry. While also trying to have a bit of fun, my hope is that this powerful mantra captures The Salvation Army’s unwavering dedication to serving humanity with love, compassion and integrity, empowering individuals and communities to overcome adversity and build a brighter future together, throughout Canada and Bermuda.
Our mission, rooted in God’s love for all people, motivates and guides our beliefs and values. It is founded on our faith in Jesus and his transformative power within us, extended to others through our network of ministries and services, such as our churches, shelters, food banks, long-term care facilities and community centres.
GOOD NEWS—YOU DON’T HAVE TO DO IT ON YOUR OWN. THE MISSION TEAM AT THQ IS HERE TO HELP.
It is our hope that our churches, with open doors and open hearts, serve as spiritual sanctuaries where individuals from all walks of life can come together to find solace, support and guidance in their faith journeys. Through uplifting sermons, engaging programs and compassionate outreach, we hope to empower individuals to cultivate a deeper connection with Jesus and with one another, igniting a sense of purpose and belonging that transcends barriers and unites hearts in love and service to all people.
While providing spiritual, physical and emotional support, our community
and social mission efforts work toward systemic change to address the root causes of poverty and injustice. The belief in the inherent worth of every individual and Christ’s call to love God and love your neighbour as yourself (see Mark 12:30-31) are the bedrock of The Salvation Army’s efforts in this regard. The rallying cry, “We Are Mission!” has become both a fun and sacred reminder that stirs us toward our commitments to share the love of Jesus, meet human need and be a transforming influence in our communities.
“We Are Mission!” is true to the ethos of The Salvation Army. As we strive to be part of God’s mission in the world, we are committed to transformative change in people and communities. Our movement adopts an individualized, comprehensive approach to community development. Through initiatives, such as job training programs, educational support and Pathway of Hope, we empower individuals to break the cycle of poverty and build a better future for themselves and their families. Moreover, by fostering a sense of solidarity and mutual support, our mission endeavours cultivate resilient communities capable of weathering adversity and effecting positive change.
This call is for everyone connected to The Salvation Army to embrace and live out “We Are Mission!” with an unwavering dedication and fervent zeal. Motivated by our faith in Jesus and driven by compassion for the marginalized, let’s stand together as a beacon of hope in a world laden with challenges, through the transformative power of Jesus and our collective action. God calls us to this! We are not to be merely passive observers of a broken world but rather active participants in the mission of love, justice and redemption (see Micah 6:8).
Good news—you don’t have to do it on your own. The mission team at THQ is here to help. Over the last couple of years, our team has grown and worked diligently behind the scenes developing new tools and streamlining approaches so that our mission resourcing, training
and delivery will be meaningful, cutting edge and effective for you. Momentum is building and it brings us joy to hear more people are using these resources, and that God is using them to bring about change in the lives of people throughout the territory. We are here to serve you to the best of our ability.
The communities that form our territory need to know about Jesus and his love, and The Salvation Army is well positioned throughout Canada and Bermuda to share this good news. Friends, it’s time to try new things, be innovative partners, continue to share hope where there is hardship and build communities that are just and know the love of Jesus. In so doing, we can all embody and live out the phrase, “We Are Mission!”
LT-COLONEL LES MARSHALL is the territorial secretary for mission.
Photo: Dreamer Studios
Whenmy husband, Daniel, and I discovered we were moving appointments in 2020, we had two prayers: 1) that God would place us right where he wanted us, and 2) that we would have a big enough backyard for a swing set.
Several months later, my two boys and I—with a very pregnant belly—walked through our new front door. They ran right into the backyard and I’m not sure I’ve seen them since.
When you’re a Salvation Army officer, there is little you have control over with respect to where you live. It’s a beautiful, forced practice of fully trusting God and those he has placed in leadership to help discern who goes where, why and when. Although that has been a hard pill to swallow for this East Coast girl who had never left her hometown until she was 21, it has also been a lesson in holding tightly to
ONE BACKYARD AT A TIME
Creating sweet, messy, loud memories for our children is kingdom work.
BY CAPTAIN BHREAGH ROWE
some things and loosely to others, knowing that God will provide me with the strength to humbly submit to his ways.
One of the things that we hold tightly is our boys’ childhood. Not because we grieve every day they get older but because childhood is quick and precious and, quite frankly, being stolen by all the distractions of our culture. I must admit, I was caught up in this, too—worrying about what opportunities I was missing out on while I was breastfeeding in another room and wishing for a full night’s sleep instead of intentionally crafting a home and a childhood for my kids that would build the strongest foundation I possibly could. Thank goodness God shook me out of that.
So, when our new home had the best backyard in the world, we knew that God was giving it to us for “such a time as this.” As soon as the temperature inches closer to double digits, we start creating a space for our kids to be kids. I don’t mean we fill the backyard with “stuff.” We create sweet, messy, loud memories.
Every summer we plant a big garden together. We stay outside all afternoon, riding bikes, scraping knees and hitting balls over the fence (sorry, neighbours!). Someone always wants to pull out the slip and slide. Someone else always gets a splinter that they refuse to let us take out without the promise of ice cream.
They discover how to position their bikes in puddles “just so,” so when they peddle fast everyone gets sprayed. We hold our breath as they go down hills too fast on roller blades or when Dad teaches them how to use an axe to chop wood for the campfire. Every night the bath water looks more like a muddy puddle, and grass and wet T-shirts are flung all over my house.
It’s a lot raising three wild boys who love the outdoors. It’s messy. Someone bleeds almost every day. But somehow, our backyard feels more like “on earth as
it is in heaven” than many places I have been, and watching my boys be boys feels like true kingdom work.
I know many people do not have a big backyard or may not even have one at all. You don’t need to be in our backyard in St. Albert, Alta., to take back the childhood of a kid you have or know (although we would love to host you). We can all make the choice this summer to live out our calling as upside-down kingdom people by:
• Being active and present with kids in our families or in our circle of influence.
• Letting the marshmallows catch on fire.
• Letting a three-year-old “accidentally” turn on the hose to soak you.
• Leaving the messy house for when the kids are in bed.
• Opening your home for all the neighbourhood kids.
• Expanding your own little piece of heaven into all the corners of your neighbourhood.
Here’s the truth: the enemy is after our children. I don’t have to convince you of that; you see it every day, too. He is working overtime to steal these little ones away. But let me tell you something else: I would give up everything I am to keep my boys in the backyard for as long as possible.
As American pastor and author Tim Keller wrote: “You can make the sacrifice or they’re going to make the sacrifice. It’s them or you.” This summer, join me in sacrificing a little of yourself, your home and your cleanliness to reclaim childhood, one backyard at a time.
is the community ministries officer, St. Albert Church and Community Centre, Alta.
CAPTAIN BHREAGH ROWE
Cpts Daniel and Bhreagh Rowe enjoy their backyard with their sons Ezra, Asher and Maverick
FROM THE CURSE TO THE CROSS:
HOW JESUS SAVED A MUSLIM WOMAN FROM THE CURSE
BY ROSE MASIH
InFrom the Curse to the Cross: How Jesus Saved a Muslim Woman from the Curse, Rose Masih shares her powerful journey from a life cursed with fear and loneliness to one of freedom and salvation. Growing up as a Muslim woman, Masih was burdened by the weight of her gender and the never-ending tasks required to earn her place in heaven. Once proud of Islam, Masih yearned inside for comfort, peace and purpose.
After an overwhelming encounter with Jesus Christ upon walking into a local church, Masih felt the chains of her past begin to break. Through learning about him and proclaiming him as the one true God, she discovered a sense of freedom and redemption in her newfound faith. Masih, now a dedicated Christian who holds a master of divinity, has spent more than two decades teaching, preaching and sharing the gospel around the world.
TESTAMENT: THE STORY OF MOSES
Testament: The Story of Moses is a three-part documentary miniseries that explores the life of Moses (Avi Azulay), from an outcast to a prophet. Divided into three parts—“The Prophet,” “The Plague” and “The Promised Land”—the series begins with Moses’ infancy and encounter with Pharaoh’s daughter, to his eventual role as a prophet and leader of the Israelites. It tells Moses’ redemption story, sharing the humanity, struggles and self-doubt that he faces as he lives out his purpose for God.
Directed by Benjamin Ross and narrated by Charles Dance (Game of Thrones), this series weaves together dramatic re-enactments of wellknown Scripture with interviews with theologians and historians. What sets Testament: The Story of Moses apart is its presentation of a balanced perspective on Moses’ story, drawing insights from theologians of Abrahamic religions—Christian, Jewish and Islamic faiths—as well as academic experts in history, archeology and Egyptology. Through their interviews, the series explores the contemporary relevance of Moses’ journey, touching on themes of social justice, identity and resilience.
“Moses was deeply flawed and extraordinarily resilient,” says Rabbi Maurice Harris, author of Moses: A Stranger Among Us, in the first episode of the series. “He was conflicted about his identity; he was an adopted child. He was a person with a
From the Curse to the Cross is Masih’s personal testimony, from a staunch believer in Islam to a follower of Christ, and she bravely recounts her childhood and challenges former beliefs. The book begins with a prayer for all those who read it: “I pray that you will find the truth you are seeking in Jesus Christ, and this truth will set you free. I pray that you will be free from the fear of hell and that you will know that you are being justified before God because of his Son, Jesus Christ.” Masih invites Muslims and Christians alike to explore the transformative power of Jesus. This book will interest Salvationists, evangelists and anyone who seeks the truth about how God can work in their own lives.
From the Curse to the Cross is available to purchase on Amazon.ca.
criminal record. He was homeless for part of his life. And his failures teach us as much as his achievements.”
“The God of Scripture is a God who specializes in taking broken things and not just fixing them but repurposing them for something even greater,” says Tom Kang, lead pastor at NewStory Church in Los Angeles.
Testament: The Story of Moses became a top show on Netflix within days of its release, helping to popularize biblical narratives beyond the wellknown birth and Crucifixion of Jesus. Throughout each episode, Scripture references are included on-screen to provide viewers with access to biblical narratives, a helpful tool whether you are familiar with the story or wanting to open a Bible to learn more about it. It serves as a gateway for individuals of all backgrounds to explore themes of faith, redemption and human struggle through rich storytelling and insights.
Testament: The Story of Moses is available to watch on Netflix.
From the Curse to the Cross is Masih’s personal testimony, from a staunch believer in Islam to a follower of Christ. “Moses was a person with a criminal record. He was homeless for part of his life. And his failures teach us as much as his achievements.”
RABBI MAURICE HARRIS
THE STORY OF A BONNET
HALLELUJAH BONNET
Evangeline Booth wearing a Salvation Army bonnet, which was in use in 1900
LARGE-BRIM BONNET
Early bonnets were sometimes individualized, reflecting the wearer’s personal style
LIVING HISTORY
Living History is a new series showcasing just a small assortment of the more than 350,000 items housed at The Salvation Army Heritage Centre in Toronto. This month, we are spotlighting the centre’s collection of bonnets.
COAL SCUTTLE BONNET
A red ribbon with “The Salvation Army” written in gold was added in 1884
This hat was introduced in 1971, along with the open-collar uniform
As time went on, the bonnets became smaller
The Heritage Centre’s collection features approximately 150 bonnets in several different styles, including the coal scuttle bonnet pictured above, as well as some bonnet blocks, which were used to make the hats.
The original bonnet was devised by co-Founder Catherine Booth herself,
and was first worn in 1880. The bonnets were made from straw and silk and stiffened with gelatine. Once blocked, the bonnet was varnished and polished, shielding the wearer from rain, snow, sun, and even the occasional projectile. In the Army’s early days, bonnets served the very practical purpose of protecting
Salvationists from things that were thrown at them.
While women officers and soldiers are no longer required to wear bonnets as part of their official uniform, a felt bowler-style hat is sometimes still worn for outdoor occasions, such as open-air meetings and marches of witness.
MODERN-STYLE BONNET
FELT BOWLER-STYLE HAT
INTERNATIONAL
Appointments: Jul 1—Lt-Cols Friday/Glory Ayanam, TC/TPWM, Nigeria Tty, with rank of col; Lt-Cols Christian/Christiana Azubuike, CS/TSWM, Rwanda and Burundi Tty; Lt-Cols Elianise/Jean Clenat, TPWM/TC, Congo Brazzaville Tty, with rank of col; Cols Cedric/Lyn Hills, international secretaries for Europe, IHQ, with rank of comr; Comrs Daniel/Tracey Kasuso, TC/TPWM, Zimbabwe and Botswana Tty; Mjrs Julie/Thomas Louden, territorial leader for leader development/CS, U.S.A. Central Tty, with rank of col; Mjrs Razia Gurnam/Gurnam Masih, TSWM/CS, India South Western Tty, with rank of lt-col; Mjrs Dancille/ Emmanuel Ndagijimana, TPWM/TC, Rwanda and Burundi Tty, with rank of lt-col; Lt-Cols Celeste/Mario Nhacumba, TSWM/CS, Kenya East Tty; Mjr Laurindo/Cpt Luisa Nombora, CS/TSWM, Mozambique Tty; Lt-Cols Dean/Eirwen Pallant, TC/TPWM, Germany, Lithuania and Poland Tty, with rank of col; Aug 1—Lt-Cols Edward/Jennifer Lyons, CS/TSWM, Caribbean Tty, with rank of col; Lt-Cols Edeline/Emmanuel Supre, TPWM/TC, Caribbean Tty, with rank of comr
TERRITORIAL
Births: Lts Joshua/Kassie Cain, son, Tobias, Mar 17; Lts Jory/Rebecca Hewson, son, Malachi Eoin Hewson, Mar 28
Appointments: Lt-Cols Brian/Lynn Armstrong, DC/divisional officer personnel and divisional spiritual life development secretary, Ont. Div; Mjrs Donald/Donna Bladen, DC/divisional officer personnel and divisional spiritual life development secretary, Prairies and Northern Territories Div, with rank of lt-col; Lt Miya Bradburn, divisional candidates secretary, Ont. Div; Lt-Col Tiffany Marshall, chair to the territorial morals and social issues committee (additional responsibility); Mjr Heather Matondo, assistant director, international development department, THQ; Lt Jeffrey Robertson, divisional candidates secretary, Ont. Div; Mjr Brian Slous, assistant territorial secretary for business administration, THQ; Comrs Floyd/Tracey Tidd, special projects, IHQ; Aug 1—Lt-Col Brenda Critch, spiritual life development secretary (primary) and mission support and emergency officer (additional responsibility), Zambia Tty; Lt-Col Shawn Critch, secretary for business administration, Zambia Tty
Promoted to major: Cpts Fiona/Matthew Kean; Cpts Donald/Kathryn Ratcliff
Long service: 35 years—Mjr Kenneth Percy
Accepted as auxiliary-lieutenant: Dianne/Eli Drodge, Kevin/Pamela Pilgrim
Retirement: Lt-Col Ann Braund
Promoted to glory: Mjr Marjory Burditt, Mar 23; Mjr Margaret Burt, Apr 13; Cpt Robert Townson, Apr 18
CALENDAR
Commissioners Lee and Debbie Graves: Jun 25-Jul 1 territorial ministry tour, Prairies and Northern Territories Div; Jul 3-8 Calgary Stampede weekend; Aug 25 Territorial Music School, Guelph, Ont. Colonels John and Lani Chamness: Jun 25-Jul 1 territorial ministry tour, Atlantic Div. (Maritimes); Jul 3-8 Calgary Stampede weekend; Aug 23-25 Celebration of Culture, Pine Lake Camp, Alta.
Canadian Staff Band: Aug 25 Territorial Music School, Guelph, Ont.
Canadian Staff Songsters: Jul 3-8 Glenmore Temple, Calgary; Aug 3-11
U.S.A. Southern Territorial Bible Conference, Lake Junaluska, North Carolina
MONCTON, N.B.—Six adherents and seven senior soldiers are enrolled at Moncton Citadel CC. Front, from left, Adebukola Grace Bada, senior soldier; Marie Caillouette, adherent; George Overzet, senior soldier; Nancy Johnson and Kristabela Christian, adherents; and Ezekiel Christian, senior soldier. Back, from left, Mjr James Anderson, CO; Cory Dobson, adherent; Tamara Dobson, Brigitte Mejía de Martínez, Pedro Manuel Martínez and Pedro Isaac Martínez Mejía, senior soldiers; Katherine J. Báez Soto and Dester Alberto Mojica, adherents; and John Li, colour sergeant.
celebrates the enrolment of nine
soldiers and one adherent on Palm Sunday. Front, from left, Maryjane Iyeimo, Olanrewaju “Ola” Olorunsola, Anna Babuskova and Takudzwa “Taku” Nawu, senior soldiers. Back, from left, Cpt Norm Porter, then CO; Lt-Col Susan van Duinen; Ana Lavie and Santiago Vaca, senior soldiers; Mjr Bruce Mac Kenzie, assistant executive director, Winnipeg Centre of Hope, holding the flag; James Paulson, adherent; Kehinde “David” Olorunsola, Jin Nuyda and Mark Stewart, senior soldiers; Lt-Col Brian Armstrong, then DC, Prairies and Northern Territories Div; and Mjr Joanne Briggs.
TORONTO—Agincourt Temple CC celebrates the enrolment of seven senior soldiers after the completion of soldiership classes taught by Mjr Catherine Skillin and Ellen Craggs. Front, from left, Mjr Skillin; Ijeoma Ugochukwu, Oyinade Adeosun and Favour Anagboso, senior soldiers; Cpts Cathy and Scott Allen, COs. Back, from left, Craggs; Peace Festus, Adenike Adesanmi, Deborah Ahmiegbe and Emmanuela Festus, senior soldiers; and CSM Norman Robertson.
WINNIPEG—Southlands CC
senior
ST. GEORGE’S, BERMUDA—Beverly Daniels, former executive director at Bermuda Community Services, celebrates retirement after 10 years of service. From left, Lt Lester Ward, current executive director at Bermuda Community Services and area business manager; Daniels; and Mjr Cathy Simms, AC—Bermuda, Atlantic Div.
ST. GEORGE’S, BERMUDA—After 48 years of service, Neil Francis retires as the corps sergeant-major of St. George’s Corps. From left, Lt Lester Ward, executive director at Bermuda Community Services and area business manager; Lt Almeta Ward, CO; Delano Ingham, holding the flag; and Francis.
ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—At St. John’s West Corps, five soldiers are enrolled and one soldier is reinstated. Front, from left, Kylynn DeBoer, Walter Lush, Anna Ricks, Lillian Mabel White and Jordan Denine, senior soldiers; and CSM Sylvia Tulk. Back, from left, Alvina Stuckless, reinstated senior soldier; Lts Natalia and Brian DeBoer, COs; and Ben Denney, colour sergeant.
ST. JOHN’S, N.L. — Front, from left, Alyssa Kelly, Natalie Parnell and Grace Kelly are enrolled as senior soldiers at St. John’s West Corps. Supporting them are, back, from left, CSM Sylvia Tulk, and Lts Brian and Natalia DeBoer, COs.
RETIREMENT
Major (Dr.) Mark Wagner (BTh, BA, MA, MDiv, STM, DMin) is a fourthgeneration officer of The Salvation Army. Major Isobel Wagner (BRE, BA, MTS, MA), also a child of officer parents, pursued studies in Christian education, and later in conflict management and spiritual direction. Mark and Isobel have been married since 1982, sharing life and ministry together since they were commissioned and ordained in 1989 as Ambassadors for Christ. They have five adult children and eight grandchildren. Mark and Isobel spent more than 30 years in joint pastoral ministry, serving Salvation Army congregations across Canada, and planting churches in Richmond Hill, Ont., and Victoria. They had additional responsibilities as area commanders in British Columbia for three years. Mark spent a term as the dean of the School for Continuing Studies at Booth University College while Isobel was a field officer and instructor at the College for Officer Training in Winnipeg. Following appointments at territorial headquarters as corps ministry secretary and learning development co-ordinator, respectively, Mark and Isobel returned to pastoral work, finishing their ministry at Kelowna Community Church, B.C.
TRIBUTES
LETHBRIDGE, ALTA.—Captain Robert (Bob) Townson lived as a man of Christ, from travelling across Canada with his family of four—known as “The Gospel Truth” singing group, which brought Jesus to many people—to serving as a Salvation Army officer with his wife, Maureen, for 19 years. Bob was often seen studying God’s Word, and Psalm 91 was a favourite: “Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling” (Psalms 91:9-10 NKJV). Predeceased by his wife, Maureen, Bob is survived by daughters Kareen Fredborg and Tammy (Shaughn) Killeen; grandchildren Mary (Jim) Linville, Miriam Fredborg, John Fredborg, Liam Killeen, Amberlye Killeen and Alanndra Killeen; and great-grandson, Aleksander Johann.
ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Major Bernice Patey was born in 1942 in Roddickton, N.L. Bernice started her career as a teacher in 1961, and in 1962, she married Leighton Patey. Together, they entered the College for Officer Training in 1965 as members of the Witnesses to the Faith Session. Following their commissioning, Majors Patey were appointed as corps officers at Chance Cove, N.L., followed by corps appointments in Woodstock, Carmanville South, Rocky Harbour, Clarke’s Beach, Stephenville, Clarenville, Carbonear, Hare Bay, Deer Lake and Springdale, N.L. They also served in community and family services in St. John’s and in long-term care appointments in Charlottetown, P.E.I., and St. John’s. Bernice will be remembered for the passion she brought to her ministry and her capable expounding of God’s Word. Predeceased by her son, Bradley, Bernice is survived by her husband and partner in ministry for 33 years, Major Leighton Patey, as well as three sons, Brian, Robert and Blair.
ST. JOHN’S, N.L.—Margaret Louise Atkins (nee Melendy) was a kind, caring and beautiful person who was loved by everyone. Predeceased by her parents, Charles and Edith Melendy, and brother, Chesley Melendy, Margaret leaves to mourn with loving memories her husband of 18 years, Ches Atkins; daughters Eva (Keith) and Dawn (Tony); grandchildren Ryan, Stephanie, Chase and A.J.; greatgrandchildren Mario and Eva; siblings Art (Bernice), Blanche (Rick), Carson (Janice), Wanda (Gar), Lorne (Sandra), Lynn (Bren) and Craig (Trudy); and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Brigitte Mejía de Martínez with her family. From left, her son, Pedro Isaac; de Martínez; daughter, Abigail; and husband, Pedro Manuel Martínez
Q&
ABrigitte Mejía de Martínez recently moved to Canada from the Dominican Republic with her family. They attend Moncton Citadel Community Church, N.B., where, in just a short time, they have become pillars of the community.
Tell us about your spiritual journey.
I am from Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic. I grew up in a Catholic home and visited church frequently, but I didn’t have a real encounter with God until I hit rock bottom at the age of 19. Due to different unpleasant situations in my childhood and adolescence, I became entangled with friends who were a negative influence.
One night, I overdosed on pills after my boyfriend and I ended our relationship, and I threw myself out of a moving vehicle. In the emergency room, doctors tried to revive me, but it seemed hopeless. Eventually they stopped and I was left alone in the room. I was scared because I knew that what was coming was not good. Then two characters appeared and told me it was time to leave.
I resisted, but they were stronger than me, so I closed my eyes and cried out, Jesus, if you exist and love me, help me! The whole room became bright, but even in so much brightness there was a light that shone with even greater intensity. He came toward me and put a hand on my head. I was trembling, but not from fear. I heard a voice say, “I’m giving you another chance to tell people what I’ve done for you.”
That day marked a before and after in my life. It has been 24 years now and I’ve been serving the Lord Jesus ever since.
A VISION OF LOVE
How an encounter with Jesus transformed my life.
Who has made an impact on your spiritual life?
After my encounter with Jesus, I began to visit a prayer group at a Protestant Christian church, where the leaders, Reina and Jorge, tutored me in the faith. God also put in my path the man who is now my husband, Pedro Manuel Martínez, who was a key piece in my spiritual growth. In every situation he guided my eyes to the cross of Jesus, teaching me from his Word.
How long have you been in Canada?
We arrived on December 29, 2022, and everything was white from the snow. I couldn’t wait to touch it! At the same time, I thanked God for allowing us to come to this country in search of a better quality of life for our children. I felt that a big door was opening for us after so long.
The first thing we did was to investigate where the nearest Christian church was. In our third week, we visited Moncton Citadel Community Church. What impressed me was to see how the church, without knowing us, welcomed us as a family, opening the doors of their homes and giving us all the support we needed to start our journey as newcomers. The love of Jesus was reflected in the people and the leaders, who always looked for a way to make me feel that I wasn’t in a strange land, despite my limitations with the language.
You and a few other members of your family recently became soldiers (see page 28). Why did you make that decision? Scripture tells us to not only listen to the Word, but to do what it says (see James 1:22).
My family and I have seen how that Word becomes a reality, blessing others not only with what we preach but also with what we do for them to change their lives. After some time of attending the citadel and seeing how God turned our limitations into strengths, seeing how other Hispanics approached us with physical and spiritual needs, and how pleased the local brothers and sisters were with our presence, we decided to obey the fervent call of service to the Lord’s work and officially commit ourselves to The Salvation Army.
How are you involved at your corps?
As soldiers of The Salvation Army, we go where we are needed. My husband and I pray for people, participate in and support the activities carried out, and minister through singing.
My daughter, Abigail, provides help with the children in the church and my son, Pedro Isaac, helps with the audiovisuals and volunteers with community and family services, as well as at Greenfield House, a residential facility for ex-offenders.
What is one place in Canada you’d like to visit?
I would like to visit Niagara Falls in Ontario. People say it’s a great experience and we hope to see it one day.
Meet Mishel.
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EARNED A DEGREE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE DECIDED HER PASSION WAS SOCIAL WORK TRANSFERRED TO BOOTH UC TODAY: SOCIAL WORK GRADUATE, EARNED A BSW IN 2024
It might just be the most gruelling event in the entire Olympic Games.
The decathlon—10 sports over two days. From the 100-metre dash to the discus throw, from long jump and hurdles to shot put and javelin, each contender must have conquered multiple disciplines. It’s no surprise that the winner has traditionally been called the “World’s Greatest Athlete.”
If this sounds like an impossible feat to you, you’re not alone. It takes incredible strength and endurance to compete in this event.
We may not be chasing gold medals, but everyone faces challenges in life. Our strength may be tested and come up short, leaving us feeling weak and defeated. But in those times when we feel least able to overcome the hurdles of life, God promises us: “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).
With God, no race can’t be won. When we are weak, He makes us strong.
FAITH BUILDERS
5 All the Feels
In Inside Out 2, will new emotions threaten our hero’s tranquility?
CAMP TALES
8 Summer Fun
Salvation Army holiday camp helps participants such as Francis develop social and outdoor skills.
COMMON GROUND
10 Making a Difference
For more than five years, Nina Halpern has been helping at The Salvation Army.
12 The Right Place
16
Joan Daines never imagined herself in a Salvation Army uniform. But as it turns out, it was the perfect fit.
A Sweet Story
A fateful taxi ride set Tareq Hadhad on a path to Canada—and a delectable chocolate business.
22 Recipe for Success
Once helped by the Army, a former street kid now relishes helping others.
FAMILY TIME
25 Quick Win?
Diane Stark’s online gaming pastime seemed to be good clean fun. Until it wasn’t.
LITE STUFF
28 Eating Healthy With Erin Sudoku, Quick Quiz.
NIFTY THRIFTY
30 A Mug’s Game
Here’s a fun and simple DIY for a favourite someone.
Taxi Driver
“
Why don’t you try Canada? ”
Reading Tareq Hadhad ’s profile again, I was struck by one point. What if the young man had not met a kind taxi driver that night in Beirut almost 10 years ago? Where would Tareq and his family be?
The Hadhads would probably not be in Antigonish, N.S., and Tareq would not be the founder and CEO of Peace by Chocolate, a company devoted to sharing a family passion across Canada and around the world.
What made the taxi driver say what he said? Those words changed a family’s trajectory.
The cabbie could have chosen to stay silent and not care what Tareq’s plight was.
He could have simply driven the young man home to his family and went on with his life. Instead, he cared.
The cab driver probably did not realize it, but he was echoing the Old Testament: “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up” (Proverbs 12:25).
We all have that superpower. Words can hurt but they can also help, if we choose them wisely. There is a great power with that responsibility. So be like that cabbie!
Tareq’s inspiring story is on page 16.
Elsewhere in this month’s Faith & Friends, you’ll see our take on the new Inside Out 2 movie, read how one woman’s journey to become an official member of The Salvation Army started with income taxes, and learn how a bottle of homemade relish was a way a former street kid said thank you for saving her life.
Ken Ramstead
Mission Statement
To show Christ at work in the lives of real people, and to provide spiritual resources for those who are new to the Christian faith.
Faith & Friends is published bimonthly by:
The Salvation Army 2 Overlea Blvd, Toronto Ontario, M4H 1P4
International Headquarters 101 Queen Victoria Street, London, EC4P 4EP, England
Lyndon Buckingham, GENERAL
Commissioner Lee Graves
TERRITORIAL COMMANDER
Lt-Colonel John P. Murray
SECRETARY FOR COMMUNICATIONS
Geoff Moulton, DIRECTOR OF INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF AND LITERARY SECRETARY
Pamela Richardson
ASSISTANT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Ken Ramstead, EDITOR
Kristin Ostensen
MANAGING EDITOR OF SALVATIONIST AND SALVATIONIST.CA
Lisa Suroso
GRAPHIC DESIGN SPECIALIST
Emily Pedlar
JUNIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Rivonny Luchas
DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST
Giselle Randall
SENIOR EDITOR OF SALVATIONIST
Abbigail Oliver
EDITOR OF JUST FOR KIDS AND STAFF WRITER
Logan Graves CIRCULATION CO-ORDINATOR
Scripture Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture references are taken from New International Version
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Inside Out 2, in theatres now, is Disney and Pixar’s animated sequel to Inside Out, a film that focuses on the emotions that live inside a young girl’s head as she adapts to a new school after her family moves across the country.
Balance Upsetted
Inside Out 2 picks up a few years after the original. Riley (Kensington Tallman) has just turned 13. Her body—and her emotions—are in a state of flux.
All the Feels
In Inside Out 2, will new emotions threaten our hero’s tranquility?
by Diane Stark
New Emotions
Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2 returns to the mind of newly minted teenager Riley just as new emotions show up
Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Anger (Lewis Black), Fear (Tony Hale) and Disgust (Liza Lapira) are still present in Riley’s mind, helping her to manage her feelings and make positive memories. Everything is going according to plan—until the wrecking ball shows up.
The control panel that the emotions use to manage Riley’s feelings is demolished and rebuilt to make room for four new emotions that will join them in Riley’s mind. The first to show up is Anxiety (Maya Hawke).
The existing emotions don’t know how to deal with this new unwelcome feeling in Riley’s mind. Then they’re joined by three more: Envy (Ayo Edebiri), Embarrassment (Paul Walter Hauser) and Ennui (Adèle Exarchopoulos). Puberty has wreaked havoc on Riley’s emotional well-being, upsetting the delicate balance her emotions have striven to maintain.
Can Joy and the other emotions help Riley learn to handle her new emotions in a healthy way?
Can We Trust Our Feelings?
Even though most of us are long past puberty, we can still struggle to manage our emotions at times. A stressful situation at work, a health problem or a financial issue can cause our emotions to get out of
whack and make us feel more angry or sad, fearful or anxious than usual. This is completely normal. No one feels joyful all the time. God designed us to feel a range of emotions, and being a Christian doesn’t take away all of our negative feelings. Besides, if we never felt grief or despair, we couldn’t feel empathy for a loved one who was experiencing those emotions.
It’s important to remember that emotions can be tricky. They feel so real in the moment, but we can’t always trust them to portray an honest picture of reality. Our feelings are not always a good metric on which to make important decisions.
For example, if as Christians, we feel helpless about our future, that emotion is not an accurate representation of reality. We might
What‘s Happening?
Sadness, Joy, Disgust, Fear and Anger are awakened to an alarming reality: everything is changing now that Riley is 13
No matter what is going on in our lives, God is still with us, still rooting for us, still designing a special plan for our life.
DIANE STARK
feel that way for a time, but it’s not true. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “ ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ ” No matter what is going on in our lives, God is still with us, still rooting for us, still designing a special plan for our life.
Just the Facts, Ma’am
If we can learn to trust God and His plan, even through difficult circumstances, we should never feel helpless because we know that God keeps His promises. He’s promised us a heavenly home when we leave this earth, so no matter what, we can always have hope.
We might think that our faith in God is based on feelings, but those
can change from day to day or even minute to minute. Instead, we need to remember that faith isn’t just a feeling. It’s a belief based on facts that will never change. Two thousand years ago, God loved us so much that He sent His Son to die and take the punishment for our sins (see John 3:16). God never changes. He loved us then and He still loves us now. Sometimes, we might feel ashamed of something we’ve done and think that God may have changed His mind about us, but it’s not true. Those are our feelings, and they aren’t always reliable.
When our feelings are causing us to doubt God’s love or His promises, we need to lean on the facts found in the Bible.
God knows us—inside and out— and He loves us anyway.
(left)
Diane Stark is a wife, mother of five and freelance writer from rural Indiana. She loves to write about the important things in life: her family and her faith.
When Michelle Khoury saw an advertisement for Salvation Army summer camps in British Columbia in 2022, she decided to ask her son, Francis, eight, if he wanted to join. Francis excitedly agreed.
Since enrolling, Michelle has noticed that the activities at Camp Sunrise have helped her son gain confidence, as well as a few other skills.
Pathway to Participation
“My son has ADHD and mild autism,” Michelle shares. “When he came back from camp last year, he was a different kid, in a good way. He was very confident in himself.
Summer Fun
Salvation Army holiday camp helps participants such as Francis develop social and outdoor skills.
by Juan Romero
Hands Up!
Francis and a camp cabin leader enjoy another day at Camp Sunrise
His hand-eye co-ordination also improved.”
The social aspect of camp is what Michelle likes the most. As she considers herself a homebody, she felt that Francis maybe hadn’t had the chance to socialize much with other children outside of school. Since he began attending camp, Francis has built some nice friendships along the way.
“The social aspect of camp really helped my son out. He made really good friends and some of them went with him again last year,” Michelle adds.
The current summer program Francis is enrolled in is Camp Sunrise’s holiday camp.
“If it wasn’t for the Salvation Army camp, Francis would probably be home all summer long.” MICHELLE KHOURY
This weeklong camp is open to children between the ages of seven and 12, who can take part in a variety of outdoor activities. Since Francis joined holiday camp, the Khoury family has become more involved with The Salvation Army. They now attend church services weekly, while Francis goes to a children’s program that teaches participants about Jesus. In addition, Francis is also enrolled in music camp.
Opportunities for Growth
Aside from the developmental benefits, Michelle also admits the affordability of the program can be very helpful for families.
“If it wasn’t for the Salvation Army camp, considering how much summer camps cost now, he’d probably be home all summer long. Salvation Army camps offer financial support, too. If a parent needs a bit of financial support, they can help cover some of the costs, so it doesn’t become a financial burden, and not all camps do that,” Michelle says.
Looking forward, Michelle expects Francis to continue going back to camp every summer, and perhaps eventually even become a cabin leader.
“I’m grateful he’s had the opportunity to go and try new things. Extremely grateful,” concludes Michelle.
(left)
Juan Romero is the staff writer/news media relations specialist at The Salvation Army’s territorial headquarters in Toronto.
Prep Work “ By providing food, you are helping people,” says Nina Halpern, hard at work in the kitchen of the Salvation Army Gateway of Hope in Langley, B.C.
Making a Difference
For more than five years, Nina Halpern has been helping at the Gateway of Hope in Langley, B.C.
by Dan Ferguson
Before she retired, Nina Halpern had the same thought whenever she would happen to drive past the Salvation Army Gateway of Hope in Langley, B.C.
“It’s a wonderful thing that it’s in our community, helping out people who we see on the streets, who we know need the help,” she says.
Seeing a Need
Then, in 2018, Nina retired from her job as an occupational therapist who
worked with young children.
“I was looking for what I was going to do during the next chapter of my life, when I didn't have to go to work, and I definitely wanted to give back to the community,” she recalls.
The Gateway looked like it would be meaningful work to her.
“I made an appointment with the volunteer co-ordinator and she said the kitchen’s where they need the most help. So, I started helping out, and I came to really enjoy it.”
Photo: Special to Langley Advance Times
Helping People
For most of the last five years, the 68-year-old grandmother of three has devoted two days a week, four hours each morning, to working in the kitchen at the Gateway, helping prepare meals for people in need.
“Sometimes it’s food prep—a lot of chopping,” Nina explains. “I make a lot of sandwiches. I do breakfast shifts early in the morning. We do two servings to different groups and then after that, we clean up and I make a bunch of lunch bags for people to take away.”
Lately, due to a shortage of volunteers, she’s been coming in more often than usual.
“There’s never any question in your mind that by providing food, you are helping people,” she says. “You know, it’s not one of those situations where ‘I’m going to give money to this or that and maybe it’ll make a difference, maybe it won’t.’ You know that people need that meal and that it makes a difference in their day.”
“When People Come Together” Nina encourages people to take up volunteering. “It’s a wonderful thing to do, something that you know is helping others and feels meaningful, and the people you’ll meet while you’re volunteering are some of the best people you’ll ever meet. They’re all good people who want to help others.”
Rachel Martin, volunteer co-ordinator at the Gateway, says people like Nina play an indispensable role.
“These dedicated individuals selflessly contribute their time, skills and energy for the service of others,” Rachel states.
“It is amazing to see what happens when people come together to help those who are in need. We are grateful for our volunteers, as we would not be able to do what we do without them, and we are always welcoming of more volunteers.”
Reprinted from Langley Advance Times, November 21, 2023
(left)
Dan Ferguson has worked for a variety of print and broadcast outlets in Canada and the United States, winning awards from the Pacific Northwest Society of Professional Journalists, Washington Press Association and a number of Canadian newspaper organizations.
Photo: Courtesy of Joan Daines
The Right Place
JOAN
DAINES NEVER IMAGINED HERSELF
IN A SALVATION
ARMY
UNIFORM. BUT AS IT TURNS OUT, IT WAS THE PERFECT FIT.
by Ken Ramstead
While Joan Daines was a newly minted Salvation Army soldier—an official member of the church—she had never worn her uniform out in public.
But a friend of hers had suffered a stroke and was in palliative care, so she went right from church to the
“It was evident she wasn’t going to make it,” Joan says.
As she went into the hospital room, she prayed, “Lord, give me the words to say because You know I’m not a
Joan’s friend was not a Christian but that didn’t matter. Joan told her how much God loved her and that He would be there for her, and to not be
“I know she heard me,” Joan says. Later, one of the nurses stepped up to her and said, “I appreciate what you and your church do for people
here in this city.”
“It felt really good to own that uniform,” Joan smiles, “to be seen as a member of The Salvation Army.”
“I’ll Do It”
Joan’s Salvation Army journey started with a tax clinic.
She had been getting her income taxes done at the Army’s community and family services facility in Kingston, Ont.
But this particular year, the manager of the facility asked Joan if she would be interested in volunteering with the church.
“You answered a prayer,” Joan told her. “I’ve been praying about where I should be.”
“Well, we need you right here,” the manager told her.
“Fine,” Joan replied. “When do you need me?”
“Can you start tomorrow?”
Hugs Not Handshakes
The next day, Joan was at the reception desk. Soon, she became more involved, helping with the luncheons the Army prepares for people in the community.
“They do a lot there,” she says. “There’s a food bank and showers for the homeless. There’s a lot of things going on.”
One day, Joan’s manager asked her, “Would you like to come out to our church one Sunday?”
The question could not have come at a better time.
“I wasn’t happy with where I was at my church,” she recalls. “Something wasn’t right. I didn’t feel as if I was getting the teaching I needed. I wasn’t being led in faith, and I needed to know more about Jesus.”
Joan accepted the invitation and decided to attend a Sunday service at The Salvation Army’s Kingston Citadel.
“I walked in and I felt something I hadn’t felt before,” Joan says. “The congregation was so loving and caring. It wasn’t handshake greetings I was being offered. It was hugs.”
Joan was also impressed by the pastors, Captains Christopher and Nichole Maxwell.
“They focused on Jesus, purely on worshipping Jesus,” she says. “That was so new to me.”
Prayerful Decision
While Joan was happy just worshipping at The Salvation Army, she never thought “in a million years” what would happen next.
Retired pastors Majors Wil and Catherine Brown-Ratcliffe asked her if she would be interested in attending an eight-week course they offered.
“It was a ‘no strings attached’ opportunity for people to explore what The Salvation Army
Dress
Blues
“It felt really good to own that uniform,” says Joan Daines of her acquisition
Photo: Courtesy of Joan Daines
“I realized that, as I already felt part of the Army, I might as well make it official.”
JOAN DAINES
believes, its mission and ministry, and to ask questions regarding our theology, and the nature and structure of our church,” says Major Wil.
A delighted Joan agreed to attend.
“She was an active participant in discussions and sharing in the classes,” reports Major Wil. “In conversations with my wife, Joan told her several times about how much she was learning, and she eagerly anticipated the weekly get-togethers.”
After Joan completed the course, Majors Wil and Catherine encouraged her to become a soldier.
“I prayed about it,” she says, “and realized that, as I already felt part of the Army, I might as well make it official.”
Joan was encouraged by her friends, both in and out of the church, and by her church acquaintances who were soldiers.
“I went ahead and I’m so glad I did,” she says.
“They’re My Family” Joan’s faith has deepened since
joining The Salvation Army.
“I’ve gotten closer to God,” she says. “I let the Holy Spirit guide me now, whereas I didn’t have that deep belief before, which is so sad when I think of all the years that it took me to come to The Salvation Army to really understand and have a real relationship with God.”
“Joan has a wonderful, vibrant personality,” says Major Wil, “and Catherine and I were happy to encourage her to become a soldier, knowing that her example of a faith-filled life would be a witness to others, as well as an encouragement to those who are seeking to follow Jesus.”
“I have so much admiration for the people of The Salvation Army,” she says. “They’re dedicated, and they know who they are. I like to say that they have their feet firmly on the ground.”
Joan helps with the Christmas kettle campaign, assists with the food pantry and attends Bible study.
“It just feels like the right place for me. I love The Salvation Army. They’re my family.”
Proud Canadian
In January 2020, Tareq Hadhad officially became a citizen of Canada
A Sweet Story
A FATEFUL TAXI RIDE SET TAREQ HADHAD ON A PATH TO CANADA—AND A DELECTABLE CHOCOLATE BUSINESS.
by Ken Ramstead
LAST SUMMER AT INSPIRE,
the Salvation Army conference and congress that celebrated the mission at work in Canada and Bermuda, Tareq Hadhad held members of the Army’s territorial communications team transfixed with his immigrant story during a luncheon session.
Tareq is a Syrian refugee who is now living a new life with his family in Nova Scotia as the founder and CEO of Peace by Chocolate. He is the recipient of the EY Atlantic Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and RBC ’s Top Immigrant and Entrepeneur of the Year awards. Tareq has been recognized as one of the Top 50 CEOs by Atlantic Business Magazine as well as one of their 30 under 30 innovators, and he’s a Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee medal recipient.
Tareq’s had the privilege of meeting presidents and prime ministers, from Barack Obama to Justin Trudeau, but in 2012, he was just a medical student studying to be a
doctor in Syria, and his family owned a successful chocolate business. Things changed in an instant, however, when bombs destroyed their home and chocolate factory, collateral damage of Syria’s tragic civil war.
Fleeing to safety in Lebanon as refugees, all they had were four walls and a ceiling above their heads. Existing in a stateless limbo, they could not even apply for Lebanese citizenship. Tareq’s family realized they needed to start a new life overseas, but where should they go? The family applied to 15 embassies, but all they heard was “We are not taking any Syrians. You are not welcome here.”
In January 2015, Tareq was volunteering with the UN’s medical relief efforts, helping refugees like himself get back on their feet. After a long day at work at a mobile medical clinic office, he realized he was too late to take public transportation, and his home was 40 kilometres away.
“We’re Going to Canada!”
As he wondered what he should do next, a Lebanese cab driver stopped his car and asked Tareq, “Son, do you want a ride?”
“Yeah,” he replied. “Can you drive me to see my family? They are living 25 minutes away from Beirut along the coast.”
“Of course!” the driver smiled.
“But,” Tareq said, “I don’t have any money on me. Can you come back tomorrow and I will pay you?”
“No, it’s all right,” he replied. “I’m going there anyway. It’s the end of my day shift.”
As they started their journey, the driver asked, “Where are you from?”
“Syria,” Tareq replied.
They spoke briefly about the life he and his family had left behind, and Tareq could tell from the driver’s questions that he was a kind and generous man. As they drove, he looked at Tareq and said, “Are
An INSPIRE-ing Talk
Last June, Tareq spoke to members of The Salvation Army’s territorial communications team at the INSPIRE Conference and Congress in Toronto
you OK ? Do you need any help? You look nervous.”
There was something about the cab driver that made Tareq unburden himself of his worries and woes, and he told him all about his family and what they had gone through since the civil war.
“I’m trying to get my family out of Lebanon,” he concluded.
“Why don’t you go to Canada?” the cabbie asked.
“Why Canada?” a startled Tareq replied.
“Oh, I lived in Montreal for a while. It’s a beautiful place.”
Hope restored, Tareq immediately contacted the Canadian embassy and applied for a WUSC (World University Services of Canada) student visa. Frustrating months passed, but his perseverance was rewarded, and a new life began when Tareq was welcomed to Canada on a community-based sponsorship.
Photo: Steve Nelson
One night, he returned home and announced to his family, “I have sweet news for you. We’re going to go to Canada!”
A New Ending
Tareq settled in Antigonish, N.S.
“Canadians are very well known for being nice, but Antigonish is extra nice,” he says.
Tareq’s sponsors came to the airport to welcome him, and they carried flowers and signs that said: “Welcome to Canada, Tareq!”
Being welcomed this way made Tareq feel more confident to launch
his life in Canada, and he was soon followed by the rest of his family.
But what to do now? The family decided to go back to their roots and start a chocolate company.
“Building the chocolate business again was a big thing for us because chocolate is our own way to be grateful for everyone here,” Tareq says. “That’s exactly why we were inspired to call the company Peace by Chocolate.
“We are trying with every piece of chocolate to reflect something about the culture that we brought to Canada. That’s the mission.”
Home, Sweet Home Tareq with his family in Antigonish, N.S. “Hope is the reason why I came here. I was looking for a place where I feel that I belong,” he says
“Syria is my home by birth, but Canada is my home by choice.”
TAREQ HADHAD
Photo: Courtesy of Vox Management Agency
Peace by Chocolate has produced and shipped millions of chocolate pieces across Canada and around the world. And they are giving back to the people that made them feel welcome in Canada. They are supporting their community by offering jobs and purchasing from the local community, with more than 55 employees now working at Peace by Chocolate.
Tareq officially opens his family ’s new factory in September 2017
Take a Seat
As part of Canada’s 150th anniversary in 2017, the Red Couch Tour—a project funded by the Canadian government to hear from Canadians about what their country means to them— visited the Hadhads to share their family’s story
“We are able to give back,” Tareq smiles. “And I’m pleased to report that the company that just started only a few years ago is now the third largest employer in Antigonish, and it is on the way to becoming one of the top five chocolate companies in the country within the next few years.
“My family feels safe. We are
Ribbon-Cutter
Photo s: Courtesy of Vox Management Agency
not refugees anymore. We are new Canadians,” he says. “As newly arriving refugees, our family vowed that we did not come to Canada to take. We came here to contribute and give back.
“No one can go back and start a new beginning, but everyone can start today and make a new ending.”
A Home by Choice
“I’m here with you folks because of that cabbie!” Tareq told the audience at INSPIRE .
One kind word, born out of care, made all the difference to Tareq and his family.
What made the cabbie say what he said? Tareq never saw him again, but he has a possible explanation.
“In business, there’s the concept of the ROI: the return on investment,” he explains. “But there’s something much bigger than the ROI. It’s called the ROK: the return on kindness. The ROK is much more important than the ROI.
“Return on kindness, paying it forward, not only for yourself but for others. If you are successful, it is your moral responsibility to lift others to success, to give others hope in the face of all of these challenges that they face. I think the cab driver was using his ROK .”
This is why Tareq respects and appreciates The Salvation Army.
“Your slogan, Giving Hope Today, is absolutely the most wonderful thing I’ve ever heard,” he says.
“When I think about The Salvation Army, families like mine come to mind. You are families to those who are suffering and just waiting for a hand to help them find that sense of purpose and hope.
“Hope is the reason why I came here,” Tareq concludes. “I was looking for a place where I feel that I belong. Canada made it so easy for all of us to feel like we can belong to a new place, our adopted home.
“Syria is my home by birth, but Canada is my home by choice.”
Peace by Chocolate
Tareq Hadhad’s family’s journey has been detailed in a book called Peace by Chocolate as well as a feature film, which is now streaming on sites such as Crave and Apple TV after it premiered in movie theatres across Canada and the United States in the spring of 2022.
Photo: Courtesy of Magnetic Noth Pictures
Photo: Peace by Chocolate
Relishing the Moment
Recipe for Success
ONCE HELPED BY THE SALVATION ARMY, A FORMER STREET KID NOW RELISHES HELPING OTHERS.
by Ken Ramstead
Tammi Pinay-Ross was just about to start her workday as The Salvation Army’s family services co-ordinator in Moose Jaw, Sask. Sipping her coffee at home, she turned her morning radio show on and was surprised to hear a woman named Debbie Rigetti mention that she was donating the proceeds from her popular Goldie’s Relish to The
Salvation Army.
“That doesn’t happen every day,” smiles Tammi.
Sure enough, Debbie showed up at the Salvation Army facility that very afternoon, a $600 cheque and two jars of relish in hand, and proceeded to tell Tammi her story—after she promised her she could have the two jars!
Debbie Rigetti (left) and Tammi Pinay-Ross pose with their jars of Goldie's Relish (inset)
“Thanks to Debbie’s generous donation, we’ll be able to feed 50 street people every morning for weeks with that money. It’s fantastic.” TAMMI PINAY-ROSS
Never Forgotten
“I was a street kid,” Debbie says simply. “I left home when I was quite young. From the age of 13 until I was 17, I was doing drugs and everything else, all strung out.”
But her life was turned around by a Salvation Army facility in Victoria. The director, Don Baker, took one look at Debbie and told her, “I know where you need to go.”
“Jack and Julie McNeil were two caring people who had three boys, and the entire family welcomed me into their house,” says Debbie. “They were kind and they were sweet. The mom has passed away, but I continue to keep in touch with the dad and his sons—Jack still calls me his daughter and they still call me their sister.”
The family and The Salvation Army helped the young woman get clean and back on her feet.
A grateful Debbie never forgot what her foster family and the Army did for her, and she has always wanted to give back in some way to the church that saved her life.
Full Circle
So how does Goldie’s Relish factor in to all this?
When she married her husband, Milt, his mother, Goldie, handed down her extremely popular recipe to Debbie.
Debbie, in turn, decided to use the recipe as her way to raise funds for The Salvation Army.
“But it’s really thanks to Milt,” says Debbie. “If not for his generous support of purchasing all the jars, labels and ingredients, this really couldn’t work at all.”
Local establishments have clamoured to sell her relish, which she produces by growing her own cucumbers and purchasing any other locally sourced ingredients.
Her efforts on the Army’s behalf are not unappreciated. While Debbie believes that “$600 is not very much,” Tammi thoroughly disagrees.
“Six hundred dollars is not a sneeze,” she asserts. “We have a breakfast program here. Thanks to Debbie’s generous donation, we’ll be able to feed 50 street people every morning for weeks with that money. It’s fantastic.”
“Once a street kid myself, I can now help others,” says Debbie, “and maybe those people will be able to help others down the road. It’s a fullcircle moment.”
Salvation Army Wins 15 Awards
The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory’s magazines, website (Salvationist.ca) and digital media won 15 awards at the annual Canadian Christian Communicators Association (CCCA) ceremony, held online this spring. The CCCA (formerly the Canadian Church Press) has 58 members, including individual writers, musicians and representatives from publications of mainline, Catholic and evangelical churches. The awards are judged by accomplished secular journalists, writers and academics. Faith & Friends took home three awards for articles published in 2023. “Breaking Down Walls,” Giselle Randall’s September/October article on Mohawk musician Jonathan Maracle and his message of forgiveness and healing, won second place in the Biographical Profile category. Additionally, the article picked up a third-place win in the Front Cover—Magazine category. And Lisa Suroso, graphic design specialist, scored a third-place nod for her November/December “Blanketed With Love” in the Feature Layout & Design category, which detailed The Salvation Army’s efforts to help Japanese-Canadian internees during the Second World War.
received six awards in total, including first places in the Opinion Piece category for “On Pain of Death,” and in the Feature Layout & Design category for “INSPIRED for Mission,” the magazine’s coverage of The Salvation Army’s INSPIRE conference held last year. Speaking of which, our INSPIRE Conference and Congress commemorative photobook (above), designed and compiled by Lisa and Pamela Richardson, assistant editor-in-chief, respectively, received a well-deserved first. Salvationist.ca received four, including three awards for second place. Our podcast series received an award, as did an audio interview by Kristin Ostensen that dealt with reading the Bible from an Indigenous perspective. Our website also received a secondplace nod, and our e-newsletter placed third. Last but not least, the video team took home an award for their Remembrance Day production. Check out our winning entries online at: salvationist.ca/cccaawards2024.
Quick Win?
My online gaming pastime seemed to be good clean fun. Until it wasn’t.
by Diane Stark
Six weeks ago, my college-aged daughter, Julia, took my cellphone from my purse and downloaded a new game onto it.
“You don’t have to play it,” she said, “but I get extra rewards in the game when my friends sign up.”
Three of Julia’s four siblings also downloaded the game, as well as their significant others. “I just sent
you a present,” Julia said to her younger brother.
There were presents in this game? My curiosity got the best of me.
At first, I only played to be a part of what my kids were doing. It was a fun way to stay connected with my older kids on the days we didn’t see one another. We even started texting tips and tricks to do better in the game.
Photo: ViDi Studio/stock.Adobe.com
I wasn’t just chasing the temporary— I was chasing the pretend. DIANE STARK
We texted about the game so often that my oldest son, Austin— the only sibling who wasn’t playing the game and, clearly, the smartest one of us—renamed our family group chat: GAGS (Gaming Addicts Group Support). It was funny because it wasn’t true. It was just a game.
Sense of Accomplishment?
But then I started noticing that playing the game was the first thing I did every morning. I was especially interested in a part of the game called “Today’s Quick Wins.” Every day, there were three simple tasks, and when you completed one, the game put a little check mark next to it and gave you extra rewards. If you completed all three tasks every day for a week, you got an even bigger reward. The tasks were simple things that could usually be completed in just a few minutes of playing. But every once in a while, one of the tasks was a bit harder, and I’m embarrassed to admit how much time I spent trying to complete them.
The game was taking over my day. I’m a list-maker by nature. I love writing a to-do list and then
checking off the items as I complete them. I’d read that scientists believe that the satisfying feeling we get from completing a task is due to a release of dopamine in our brains. Scientists call dopamine “the achievement hormone.” They say that our brains crave it and often don’t differentiate between an actual, real-life achievement and an imaginary one, such as in a game, for instance.
Yep, the “quick wins” in the game were giving me a dopamine rush. Getting a hit of the achievement hormone from clicking a button on my phone was so much easier than getting it from completing tasks that actually mattered. Why would I tackle the mountain of laundry when I could just roll the dice and get the same feeling? Why would I complete my own tedious to-do list when the game gave me those same little check marks for doing nothing? And, most importantly, why would I struggle through those chapters in Leviticus in my Bible reading plan when the game tricked my brain into feeling a sense of accomplishment for testing out the latest game tip my son sent in our group chat?
Realigning Priorities
A few days ago, I woke up and immediately reached for my phone, which had become my habit. As I opened the game, a thought popped into my head: “I wish I wanted to open my Bible as much as I want to play this game.”
It was a sobering thought.
As a Christian, I’ve been taught to focus on the eternal, rather than the temporary. But now, I was distracted by rolling the imaginary dice to collect imaginary money and imaginary prizes. I wasn’t just chasing the temporary—I was chasing the pretend. It was beyond silly— and maybe even a little dangerous.
It was time to make a change. I asked God to forgive me for allowing my priorities to get so mixed up. Then I asked for His help to realign them. I decided to focus on “important wins” rather than the “quick wins” in the game. Every morning, I made a list of three important tasks to complete before opening the game. The first one was always spending time praying and reading God’s Word.
As I re-established the habit of putting God first each day, I felt something far better than a dopamine rush.
I felt peace.
Photo: ViDi Studio/stock.Adobe.com
Eating Healthy With Erin
PESTO CAPRESE ORZO SALAD
TIME 20 min MAKES 5 servings SERVE WITH grilled chicken or steak
1 L (4 cups) water
500 ml (2 cups) dry orzo
2.5 ml (½ tsp) salt
60 ml (¼ cup) pine nuts
500 ml (2 cups) fresh basil
1 clove garlic
125 ml (½ cup) olive oil
60 ml (¼ cup) Parmesan cheese
2.5 ml (½ tsp) lemon juice
1 ml (¼ tsp) salt or to taste
1 ml (¼ tsp) black pepper or to taste
250 ml (1 cup) cherry tomatoes
125 ml (½ cup) mini bocconcini or mozzarella cheese, cubed
60 ml (¼ cup) fresh basil to garnish (optional)
drizzle of olive oil to garnish (optional)
Parmesan cheese to garnish (optional)
1. Bring water to boil. Add dry orzo and stir. Cook uncovered for 5-8 minutes and drain. Set aside in large mixing bowl.
2. With dry pan on low, gently heat pine nuts for a few minutes.
3. In blender, add pine nuts, basil, garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, and blend until resulting pesto is smooth. Salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour pesto over orzo and mix. Cut cherry tomatoes in half and toss in with the bocconcini or mozzarella cheese. Garnish with sliced basil, olive oil or Parmesan cheese as desired. Can be served at room temperature or chilled.
STRAWBERRY BANANA SMOOTHIE BOWL
TIME 5 min MAKES 1 serving SERVE WITH bacon, eggs and toast
1 frozen banana
125 ml (½ cup) milk
125 ml (½ cup) strawberries
5 ml (1 tsp) maple syrup
15 ml (1 tbsp) shredded coconut to garnish
5 ml (1 tsp) chia seeds to garnish
60 ml (¼ cup) strawberries and banana, sliced, to garnish
1. Blend banana, milk, strawberries and maple syrup at medium speed until consistency is smooth, about 1 minute.
2. Pour into bowl and garnish with coconut, chia seeds, strawberries and banana.
Recipe photos: Erin Stanley
QUICK QUIZ
1. What month was named for Roman Emperor Augustus Caesar?
2. Who has won six Olympic gold medals for Canada, Andre De Grasse or Neil deGrasse Tyson?
3. What does electroencephalography (EEG) measure?
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Grasse;
Step 1 Visit your local Salvation Army thrift store for a second-hand mug. You can either grab a plain one or patterned.
A Mug’s Game
Here’s a fun and simple DIY for a favourite someone.
Jazz up a second-hand mug using temporary tattoos, then fill it with your favourite tea, chocolate, etc.
Supplies Needed: Thrifted mug, temporary tattoos, Mod Podge, sponge brush, sponge and water, scissors.
Step 2 Source some fun temporary tattoos for your design—hearts and flowers, for instance, or any other designs.
Step 3 Using a sponge and a small bowl with water, follow the instructions on your temporary tattoos to adhere them to your mug. Usually, you would place them on your dry mug, then use a damp sponge over the tattoo to add it to the surface of your mug.
Step 4 Keep adding tattoos until you’re happy with the design. Then allow to dry.
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Note: Handwash the mug to extend the life of your design.
Step 5 Once dry, you can seal the design with Mod Podge, either matte or gloss. I added two coats of gloss. Allow the Mod Podge to dry.
The final step is to fill the mug with a yummy treat.
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(left) Denise Corcoran (aka Thrifty By Design) is an author, upcycler, community builder and workshop facilitator based in North Vancouver. She shares her enthusiasm for crafting and upcycling by facilitating “Crafternoons” throughout Vancouver. She is also a creative expert for The Salvation Army’s thrift stores. Find a thrift store near you at thriftstore.ca.
