This morning, due mainly to the limited staff and resources we have, we have been unable to serve the needs of everyone that has come to Community Support Services. Having said that we are not sending people away empty handed. Mavis is doing well to pack some overnight food parcels at reception and has been pleasantly serving those who come in to the best of her ability.
This didn't stop one client from expressing his angst and breaking the glass in our front door. Please pray for Kerryn and her team. This is not the first time this has happened, but it is the first time in a while, and it creates a sense of ill ease in the team.
In the meantime, you may have heard us mention 'Doorways'. Our centre is a pilot centre for Doorways in the South Australia Division. To explain, here is a note from the originator of Doorways, Wilma Gallet:
‘Doorways is a new way of approaching the way we support people,’ Ms Gallet explained. While praising the excellent, compassionate work done by many practitioners she added that Doorways ‘is a philosophical shift’ in a bid to maximise the territory’s resources; making ER an ‘early intervention opportunity’ and tackling intergenerational poverty and welfare dependence.
‘We want to create sustainable service models at this time in Australia when the need is increasing and the available resources are decreasing. That requires nuanced and flexible approach to emergency relief,’ she said.
Doorways is best seen as an exercise in training, networking, capacity- and partnership-building, and a clear pursuit of best practice in the field. It is timely to re-visit how we do emergency relief, Ms Gallet explained, as ‘we need a coherence and a common branding across Australia so we can go the federal government and say, “We don’t want to just do bandaid work with emergency relief. We want to help build strong communities and develop partnerships so we can create pathways for people – usher them through Doorways to new and richer lives.”’
Both Ms Gallet and informal feedback from participating personnel emphasised the need for a consistently compassionate, non-judgmental response to people in need.
‘We need hearts of compassion,’ said Ms Gallet, ‘and as folks have shared, we need to see Jesus in the people we help; not judge them’.‘The name Doorways was devised so that when people come to the Army for emergency relief we help them realise that that’s not the end of their journey; it’s the beginning. While the exact programs offered and the “look” of them is up to divisions, corps, centres and services, we believe that the Doorways centres and satellites will help to create communities where people can belong and be accepted.’
Thursday, 28 January 2010
Car Park
Controversy seems to have been created in our community now that our car park is ocassionally chained/ locked.
This idea originated from a need to protect our parking for our own activities during the Christmas/ post Christmas sales at Westfield. During this period we had very little trouble. Since then, we had hoped that by limiting access to the car park overnight we would reduce the dumping problem outside our shop.
Just this week, however, problems have arisen. Twice cars have been locked in. One was a young man who didn't speak English and needed one of our neighbours to call us to let him out. A second was an elderly lady who apparently uses our car park whenever she catches the bus to the hospital or to her volunteer work for another organisation. Her car was locked in and she sought the help of the same neighbour. You can imagine that this neighbour is getting frustrated! Not to mention the angry daughter of the elderly lady who shared her thoughts and criticisms with me this morning.
I will speak to the team members that locked up the car park last night - there should have been some sort of notice for the old lady. In the meantime we will seek a more adequate solution. Perhaps this will include signage at the car park entrance, perhaps we can print notes for cars belonging to those not attending our centre.
Suggestions would be appreciated.
This idea originated from a need to protect our parking for our own activities during the Christmas/ post Christmas sales at Westfield. During this period we had very little trouble. Since then, we had hoped that by limiting access to the car park overnight we would reduce the dumping problem outside our shop.
Just this week, however, problems have arisen. Twice cars have been locked in. One was a young man who didn't speak English and needed one of our neighbours to call us to let him out. A second was an elderly lady who apparently uses our car park whenever she catches the bus to the hospital or to her volunteer work for another organisation. Her car was locked in and she sought the help of the same neighbour. You can imagine that this neighbour is getting frustrated! Not to mention the angry daughter of the elderly lady who shared her thoughts and criticisms with me this morning.
I will speak to the team members that locked up the car park last night - there should have been some sort of notice for the old lady. In the meantime we will seek a more adequate solution. Perhaps this will include signage at the car park entrance, perhaps we can print notes for cars belonging to those not attending our centre.
Suggestions would be appreciated.
Haiti - a further update
SALVATION Army teams in Haiti continue to focus their attention on 12,000 people living on and around a large soccer field behind the main Salvation Army compound in the St Martin area of Port-au-Prince. The United Nations Shelter Cluster has designated The Salvation Army as the ‘lead agency’ for the soccer stadium and another plaza, both adjacent to the Army’s compound. This designation gives The Salvation Army official responsibility to care for more than 20,000 people made homeless by the earthquake.Before the earthquake a 10,000-seater arena, usually hosting soccer games and music concerts, was the nearest neighbour of the Salvation Army compound. The earthquake of 12 January destroyed all but the first three rows of spectator seats in the stadium. The upper seats collapsed outwards and left the field and the remaining seats intact. Quickly the site became a new residential area of homes comprised of temporary walls of cardboard and plastic sheeting and a few tents.Registration of people living in the field is almost complete – this is important as United Nations deliveries of food rations will eventually become tied to numbers of registered people in any given district. Salvation Army teams have distributed more than 24,000 meals in the area around its compound. The food was provided by the United Nations World Food Programme. A 10,000-gallon water purification system, replenished daily, is also operational. The water system was provided by EDGE, a Christian aid agency.Indicating a small sign that life goes on, The Salvation Army is reopening a school on a temporary site at its compound in Port-au-Prince. Two of the school’s main buildings were destroyed in the earthquake and people are too terrified to enter buildings that are still standing. Salvation Army workers will continue to provide children aged three to six years old with security, nutrition and medical assistance as needed in a makeshift school.Prior to the earthquake, 1,500 children attended the Salvation Army school, sponsored by Kindernothilfe (KNH). The Salvation Army will offer day-to-day schooling and support for hundreds of children aged three to six years in the coming weeks. Salvation Army workers are also helping people in other disaster-stricken areas too. A mobile canteen distributes food and water to villages and outlying districts of Port-au-Prince. Also, 4,000 pairs of lightweight shoes – known as 'ducks' – have been distributed. United Nations security personnel are providing assistance to ensure an efficient and orderly distribution process.An assessment team has been to Petit Goave, a coastal town 68 kilometres south of Port-au-Prince which was badly damaged by the earthquake. It has been very difficult for aid to reach the area because of debris blocking the road.Major Emmanuel Michaud and Captain Serge Lainne, Haitian-born Salvation Army officers serving in the USA, conducted the assessment and will coordinate the relief effort in the region. Major Michaud says: 'Getting there will be ragged and rugged because the roads are badly damaged but – with caution, care and God’s help – we can transport volunteers, materials and hope to these people.'Team members continue to attend UN ‘Cluster Meetings’ to coordinate relief activities with other major organisations and ensure the most efficient use of resources. Workers say that food is such a desperate need that many people, though seriously injured, will line up to receive food before seeking medical treatment because they feel lack of food is the greater threat to their immediate survival.A further 295 families were given medical treatment on Sunday (24 January). More than 1,200 people have received medical aid from Salvation Army doctors, nurses, paramedics and other specialists. The medical teams delivered several babies at the main compound and were also dispatched to various orphanages in the area to assist children and infants who had received little help since the earthquake. The Salvation Army's first major shipment of supplies, including food and water, has now reached Port-au-Prince. The delivery came overland from Santo Domingo in the neighbouring Dominican Republic. The food and water will be distributed as soon as logistics for an orderly distribution are arranged and coordinated with the support of the United Nations. Four shipping containers of food, water and personal hygiene items from Jamaica are due to reach Lafiteau, a small port 12 miles from Port-au-Prince, today (26 January). Two of these containers have been prepared by The Salvation Army's Caribbean Territory and will be distributed by the Salvation Army team in Port-au-Prince.A second major shipment – arranged by the USA-based Salvation Army World Services Organisation (SAWSO) and facilitated through the delivery company UPS – is en route via Santo Domingo. The shipment consists of 20 pallets of food that will provide more than 91,000 meals and water in half-litre bottles and gallon jugs.Hundreds of volunteers continue to show up at The Salvation Army’s Territorial Headquarters in Kingston, Jamaica. There they receive, sort and repack the many donations of food and clothing that arrive at the Army’s Disaster Services warehouse.The Salvation Army is working with the Haitian government, the US military, the US Goverment's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the UN, other non-governmental organisations and its corporate partners to implement a broad response to the disaster.Lieut-Colonel Lindsay Rowe (Chief Secretary of The Salvation Army's Caribbean Territory) says: 'We continue to be deeply moved by the support the Caribbean Territory is receiving from around the world. Our most urgent needs are for prayer and finances to sustain a long-term commitment to rebuild a better Haiti.'
Wednesday, 27 January 2010
Haiti
Our General, Shaw Clifton, has written to the Salvationists of the world with regard the situation in Haiti. He writes:
Please pray for:
the citizens of Haiti whose homes and livelihoods have been destroyed;
the children of Haiti, many of whom lie injured;
the bereaved families, too many to number at the present time, and with corpses still lying untended in the streets as I write;
those in government and in public service in Haiti trying desperately to restore a semblance of structure and order;
members of the international community bringing medical and other relief;
our own Salvation Army personnel from territorial headquarters in Kingston, Jamaica, and from overseas territories and International Headquarters, ministering to the needs of both body and soul in the Name of Christ;
Please refer to the International Headquarters website and that of the Caribbean Territory, as well as other territorial websites, for moving and graphic pictures which can support your call to your comrades for fervent prayers, over and above the encouragement you have already given to that end.
I am most deeply grateful to you all and to Salvationists everywhere for your godly and compassionate responses to this major tragedy.As we pray for Haiti and for those bringing merciful relief and help, let us exercise strong faith that the hand of Almighty God will somehow bring good out of tragedy and chaos. We cling tenaciously to our belief that God can and will do this.
With my deep thanks.
Yours in Christ,
Shaw Clifton
GENERAL
Please pray for:
the citizens of Haiti whose homes and livelihoods have been destroyed;
the children of Haiti, many of whom lie injured;
the bereaved families, too many to number at the present time, and with corpses still lying untended in the streets as I write;
those in government and in public service in Haiti trying desperately to restore a semblance of structure and order;
members of the international community bringing medical and other relief;
our own Salvation Army personnel from territorial headquarters in Kingston, Jamaica, and from overseas territories and International Headquarters, ministering to the needs of both body and soul in the Name of Christ;
Please refer to the International Headquarters website and that of the Caribbean Territory, as well as other territorial websites, for moving and graphic pictures which can support your call to your comrades for fervent prayers, over and above the encouragement you have already given to that end.
I am most deeply grateful to you all and to Salvationists everywhere for your godly and compassionate responses to this major tragedy.As we pray for Haiti and for those bringing merciful relief and help, let us exercise strong faith that the hand of Almighty God will somehow bring good out of tragedy and chaos. We cling tenaciously to our belief that God can and will do this.
With my deep thanks.
Yours in Christ,
Shaw Clifton
GENERAL
Catching Up
Today we are catching up a little bit. Sadly, for the shop team at least, this means cleaning up a big mess that has been left around the car park. The Salvation Army's campaigns on tv and in print have done nothing to lessen the rubbish that a) people are leaving by our stores, and b) that others are sifting through. Even locking our car park these last few days didn't prevent someone from carrying two couches across to the shop.
In the Corps office, it means catching up with the programs as they recommence. Monday night was the basketball AGM - the first game is played this coming Monday. We again have four teams entered into the competition. Today our English classes are back and the kids are back at school. From here on in it will be all activity again.
If you're in the centre in the near future, meet the new receptionists. Over the last few months natural attrition has meant that we have needed to recruit vigorously. On Mondays you will meet Cherie, Tuesdays you will meet Eve (AM), Peggy (AM) and Yanina, Wednesdays you will meet Irene and Judy (AM) and Cherie is back (PM), Thursdays Mavis, Pam and Kayleen are in and on Fridays Judy and Kayleen are back.
They are the first people that are met by the public when they walk into our centre. We value them and need to encourage them to learn more about The Salvation Army as a whole.
In the Corps office, it means catching up with the programs as they recommence. Monday night was the basketball AGM - the first game is played this coming Monday. We again have four teams entered into the competition. Today our English classes are back and the kids are back at school. From here on in it will be all activity again.
If you're in the centre in the near future, meet the new receptionists. Over the last few months natural attrition has meant that we have needed to recruit vigorously. On Mondays you will meet Cherie, Tuesdays you will meet Eve (AM), Peggy (AM) and Yanina, Wednesdays you will meet Irene and Judy (AM) and Cherie is back (PM), Thursdays Mavis, Pam and Kayleen are in and on Fridays Judy and Kayleen are back.
They are the first people that are met by the public when they walk into our centre. We value them and need to encourage them to learn more about The Salvation Army as a whole.
Monday, 25 January 2010
Sunday
Yesterday was truly magnificent. To see such a crowd in the morning was incredible. And the two babies present, Eden being dedicated and Tyson out of hospital, made it so special. Further to that, please pray for Rose and Joe, whose baby Tane has been in hospital this weekend.
Then after a lunch with Colin & Marion's family we joined the Sundays@4 crew who were running with the same theme as teh 10 o'clock congregation. To help get in the mindset to think about injustice, they watch Hotel Rwanda during the afternoon - a pretty confronting movie!
The day finished with a "visa party" for Ehsan who has finally been granted permanent residency. A number of us from the 4pm congregation enjoyed an Iranian feast with his family. I recommend, should you get the chance, the chicken cooked with lemon and saffron and cooked over hot coals.
Finally we were able to facilitate a memorial service in the early evening for another Persian family who used our hall to remember their mum who recently died.
All in all a big day, but a great one.
As a footnote to that, I would like to thank all those that do the little things on Sundays to make everything run smoothly. Most wouldn't be aware that Lillian helps keep our stats in order, that Marg & Dot often clear up donations left at the shop at lunchtime or that Colin and Neil sort a lot of music. Many wouldn't see Clive's recording devices, Bronwyn programming the multi-media or Judith an Kym rostering morning tea and welcome teams. Not many know who is on the set up roster - people like Neil, Colin, Spencer, Kym and Brenton. Very few would know that Lynette keeps the stats on the computer, or that there are people sorting out our use of copyrighted materials. I'm sure not many people know that Christine stocks the toilet rolls and soap for each weekend, or that Angela prepares the newsletters and the 'advert screens'. Then there's the people that do follow up visitation. There's Alma and Betty that take up the offerings in the morning, and Dave that does it in the afternoon. There's Bronwyn M that orgainses the Warcrys and helps count the offerings for the bank. The list goes on and on.
A special acknoweldgement of Mark, Jermaine, David, Brendan and Winton that helped pack up the mess in the carpark after the meeting yesterday afternoon. Much appreciated.
Then after a lunch with Colin & Marion's family we joined the Sundays@4 crew who were running with the same theme as teh 10 o'clock congregation. To help get in the mindset to think about injustice, they watch Hotel Rwanda during the afternoon - a pretty confronting movie!
The day finished with a "visa party" for Ehsan who has finally been granted permanent residency. A number of us from the 4pm congregation enjoyed an Iranian feast with his family. I recommend, should you get the chance, the chicken cooked with lemon and saffron and cooked over hot coals.
Finally we were able to facilitate a memorial service in the early evening for another Persian family who used our hall to remember their mum who recently died.
All in all a big day, but a great one.
As a footnote to that, I would like to thank all those that do the little things on Sundays to make everything run smoothly. Most wouldn't be aware that Lillian helps keep our stats in order, that Marg & Dot often clear up donations left at the shop at lunchtime or that Colin and Neil sort a lot of music. Many wouldn't see Clive's recording devices, Bronwyn programming the multi-media or Judith an Kym rostering morning tea and welcome teams. Not many know who is on the set up roster - people like Neil, Colin, Spencer, Kym and Brenton. Very few would know that Lynette keeps the stats on the computer, or that there are people sorting out our use of copyrighted materials. I'm sure not many people know that Christine stocks the toilet rolls and soap for each weekend, or that Angela prepares the newsletters and the 'advert screens'. Then there's the people that do follow up visitation. There's Alma and Betty that take up the offerings in the morning, and Dave that does it in the afternoon. There's Bronwyn M that orgainses the Warcrys and helps count the offerings for the bank. The list goes on and on.
A special acknoweldgement of Mark, Jermaine, David, Brendan and Winton that helped pack up the mess in the carpark after the meeting yesterday afternoon. Much appreciated.
Thursday, 21 January 2010
Community Services Funding
Previous blogs have noted that the fiscal situation at our Corps has been under a bit of scrutiny over the last year or two.
Honestly, we are not out of the woods. Five out of six months in this financial year we have recorded actual deficits. Two out of the six months (October and December) we had negative bank balances in our default account.
This does not mean that the Corps had no money. We have money still in our investment account, and each of the sections, except the band, also had balances that kept us in the black. The default account is simply our consolidated account for general everyday use.
Iris and I continue to have regular discussions about how we can rectify this situation. Sadly this week we have decided that it is no longer viable for us to make the big cash subsidies to the operations of our community services. We will be redirecting $500 per month back into the Corps default account.
This decision is not easy, and does not come without cost. CSS clientele has increased by 40% this financial year. The government money that we are required to administer has increased (through special programs) by almost 100%. The money that the Corps has been paying has helped pay the wages for those that distribute the funding.
We will be going back to our Division this budget cycle to ensure that we have no more job losses in CSS as a result of this decision. (Late last year we had to end one casual employee's contract). We have also negotiated with the FaHCSIA (the federal department we relate to mostly) for some funds, virtually matching the Corps contribution, to be released to administrative and staff overheads. A great win.
We will continue to keep everyone posted as we further resolve the Corps cash flow situation.
Honestly, we are not out of the woods. Five out of six months in this financial year we have recorded actual deficits. Two out of the six months (October and December) we had negative bank balances in our default account.
This does not mean that the Corps had no money. We have money still in our investment account, and each of the sections, except the band, also had balances that kept us in the black. The default account is simply our consolidated account for general everyday use.
Iris and I continue to have regular discussions about how we can rectify this situation. Sadly this week we have decided that it is no longer viable for us to make the big cash subsidies to the operations of our community services. We will be redirecting $500 per month back into the Corps default account.
This decision is not easy, and does not come without cost. CSS clientele has increased by 40% this financial year. The government money that we are required to administer has increased (through special programs) by almost 100%. The money that the Corps has been paying has helped pay the wages for those that distribute the funding.
We will be going back to our Division this budget cycle to ensure that we have no more job losses in CSS as a result of this decision. (Late last year we had to end one casual employee's contract). We have also negotiated with the FaHCSIA (the federal department we relate to mostly) for some funds, virtually matching the Corps contribution, to be released to administrative and staff overheads. A great win.
We will continue to keep everyone posted as we further resolve the Corps cash flow situation.
School Holiday Program
It's underway, and from what I saw yesterday, the kids are enjoying themselves.
This is one of the smaller programs that we have run. Having said that, Paul and his team will be in touch with about 60 kids over these two days. They have a chance to interact with the families and also communicate about community and the gospel.
Please pray for them during this time.
This is one of the smaller programs that we have run. Having said that, Paul and his team will be in touch with about 60 kids over these two days. They have a chance to interact with the families and also communicate about community and the gospel.
Please pray for them during this time.
Tuesday, 19 January 2010
Doris, Ross & the Pioneers
Those who have accessed or subscribed to the Salvos Out There updates will have noticed this morning there is a feature on Doris & Ross Lewis and the great work they are doing with seniors in our community.
Obviously the word is getting out about the good things that are happening at Marion.
Well done, also, to Doris, Ross and their team for their work in our community. Please pray for them this Thursday as their committee meet to get on with planning this year's activities and outreaches.
Obviously the word is getting out about the good things that are happening at Marion.
Well done, also, to Doris, Ross and their team for their work in our community. Please pray for them this Thursday as their committee meet to get on with planning this year's activities and outreaches.
Corps Library
Just a quick note today about the Corps library.
Did you know that we have shelves of books at the back of the centre that can be borrowed? There's bible tapes, commentaries, history books, theology books, bible studies, videos - even some videos of old Corps events.
Kathleen Wright has done an excellent job of sorting the books and categorising them. There's a note book there so you can leave a note to say what you have borrowed.
Check it out some time.
Monday, 18 January 2010
Good News
It's always good to share in the good news around the place.
The Shop
The Thrift Shop continues to be a massive support of the mission in our Corps. Just yesterday, two of the visitors were shop volunteers that came through a direct invitation from Lucy. Similarly, the previous week after she had given Rebecca a tour of the building and spoken to her about church, she came to the meeting with her friends Joe & Rose - and between them brought 10 children! Well done Lucy. This witness is more important than the funds that are raised, as crucial as that is.
Oh, and by the way, the shop has had two of its best weeks since it opened again for 2010.
Insane
The youth that I've spoken to so far have come back very positive about their experiences at Insane. Mark has come back quite tired! The logistics of organising such an event for over 400 youth is incredible, but worth it as you hear of the spiritual impact and the number of youths committing to service.
Banquet
Yesterday was a great day. Both congregations shared with each other over a meal following a time of worship. It was a nice, relaxed and enjoyable way of celebrating community. It was very scriptural - Jesus himself described the Kingdom of Heaven as a party or a wedding feast. I'm glad that people seemed to enjoy themselves. A special thanks to the people that helped make it happen, particularly Angela, Lucy, Naomi, Kathleen and Marion who worked non-stop throughout the morning.
The Shop
The Thrift Shop continues to be a massive support of the mission in our Corps. Just yesterday, two of the visitors were shop volunteers that came through a direct invitation from Lucy. Similarly, the previous week after she had given Rebecca a tour of the building and spoken to her about church, she came to the meeting with her friends Joe & Rose - and between them brought 10 children! Well done Lucy. This witness is more important than the funds that are raised, as crucial as that is.
Oh, and by the way, the shop has had two of its best weeks since it opened again for 2010.
Insane
The youth that I've spoken to so far have come back very positive about their experiences at Insane. Mark has come back quite tired! The logistics of organising such an event for over 400 youth is incredible, but worth it as you hear of the spiritual impact and the number of youths committing to service.
Banquet
Yesterday was a great day. Both congregations shared with each other over a meal following a time of worship. It was a nice, relaxed and enjoyable way of celebrating community. It was very scriptural - Jesus himself described the Kingdom of Heaven as a party or a wedding feast. I'm glad that people seemed to enjoy themselves. A special thanks to the people that helped make it happen, particularly Angela, Lucy, Naomi, Kathleen and Marion who worked non-stop throughout the morning.
Haiti
Herewith is an update on the situation in Haiti, with specific Salvation Army information, courtesy of my friends in International Emergency Services:
UPDATE:
Following the really tragic events in Haiti we post the following for your prayers and information:
January 13, 2010 7 am
Shortly after 5 pm yesterday a devastating earthquake shook the country of Haiti and all but destroyed the city of Port au Prince. Thousands are feared dead. The country is paralyzed with little information flowing to the outside world because of downed power and communication lines.
The Army's Disaster Service's Coordinator in Haiti, Robert Poff, was driving into the city when the earthquake struck. In a conversation with him on Skype last night he reports that his vehicle began to shake violently and he suspected mechanical problems, but then stones and debris began to fall all around him and the road became impassable. In the valley below he could see buildings crumble and a cloud of dust forming over the city. He will not soon forget the sound of people screaming and crying for help. Bob made his way back to the city on foot and began to survey the damage and establish communication with THQ.
At this time we are not aware of causalities to Salvation Army personnel. Most of the Officers were at DHQ to submit their monthly reports so we are able to vouch for their safety.
There is substantial damage to La Maison Du Bonheur (The House of Happiness) Children's Home and all but one child has been accounted for. It is feared that this child may have tried to go home after the earthquake. La Maison is home for 52 children.
The DC's quarters has collapsed and is inhabitable. The Poff's apartment has been severely damaged and is also inhabitable. The DS's quarters, DHQ, the Central Corps, and the School have been damaged but the full extent of the damage is yet to be determined. The security wall around these properties has been destroyed. All residents of the city were instructed to remain outside for the night because of aftershocks and the fear of damaged buildings collapsing. The city is without electricity, land line and cell communication. Some internet service is available so Skype seems to be a valuable tool right now.
UPDATE:
Following the really tragic events in Haiti we post the following for your prayers and information:
January 13, 2010 7 am
Shortly after 5 pm yesterday a devastating earthquake shook the country of Haiti and all but destroyed the city of Port au Prince. Thousands are feared dead. The country is paralyzed with little information flowing to the outside world because of downed power and communication lines.
The Army's Disaster Service's Coordinator in Haiti, Robert Poff, was driving into the city when the earthquake struck. In a conversation with him on Skype last night he reports that his vehicle began to shake violently and he suspected mechanical problems, but then stones and debris began to fall all around him and the road became impassable. In the valley below he could see buildings crumble and a cloud of dust forming over the city. He will not soon forget the sound of people screaming and crying for help. Bob made his way back to the city on foot and began to survey the damage and establish communication with THQ.
At this time we are not aware of causalities to Salvation Army personnel. Most of the Officers were at DHQ to submit their monthly reports so we are able to vouch for their safety.
There is substantial damage to La Maison Du Bonheur (The House of Happiness) Children's Home and all but one child has been accounted for. It is feared that this child may have tried to go home after the earthquake. La Maison is home for 52 children.
The DC's quarters has collapsed and is inhabitable. The Poff's apartment has been severely damaged and is also inhabitable. The DS's quarters, DHQ, the Central Corps, and the School have been damaged but the full extent of the damage is yet to be determined. The security wall around these properties has been destroyed. All residents of the city were instructed to remain outside for the night because of aftershocks and the fear of damaged buildings collapsing. The city is without electricity, land line and cell communication. Some internet service is available so Skype seems to be a valuable tool right now.
Friday, 15 January 2010
Pubs
The old fashioned "Pub Booming" Ministry is one that doesn't get much press these days, but it's worth mentioning. It still happens each week, thanks to the dedication of Lucy Haley and Kym Lear. Mostly they visit the pubs on South Road and make connection with the community there.
Tonight I am filling in for Lucy who is unwell, and I'm glad that I am.
I met a young man who stated with the usual story of how he 'always gives to the Salvos'. Turns out, though, that there's a good story behind it.
He is a graduate of the Morrisset Bridge Program outside Sydney. He credits the Salvos with getting him off heroin. He also spoke about his 'enlightening' experiences worshipping at the Sydney Congress Hall, where he was taken twice a week by the Bridge staff.
While he didn't testify to an encounter with Christ while we were talking, he is certainly a life transformed through The Salvation Army's ministry. And one that we've kept in touch with through the hotel ministry. Next Friday night, pray for Kym and Lucy as they go and meet our neighbours in Jesus name.
Tonight I am filling in for Lucy who is unwell, and I'm glad that I am.
I met a young man who stated with the usual story of how he 'always gives to the Salvos'. Turns out, though, that there's a good story behind it.
He is a graduate of the Morrisset Bridge Program outside Sydney. He credits the Salvos with getting him off heroin. He also spoke about his 'enlightening' experiences worshipping at the Sydney Congress Hall, where he was taken twice a week by the Bridge staff.
While he didn't testify to an encounter with Christ while we were talking, he is certainly a life transformed through The Salvation Army's ministry. And one that we've kept in touch with through the hotel ministry. Next Friday night, pray for Kym and Lucy as they go and meet our neighbours in Jesus name.
Thursday, 14 January 2010
24/7 Prayer
This is our emphasis for this week. Praying in our Corps around the clock. Thank you to those that signed up to help cover the time slots.
As you pray, pray for the Corps - starting with yourself and then working out to cover the whole community. As you do, please pray for the Banquet Sunday this week and remember to bring some food to share for lunch, and a few friends.
Also, please keep praying for Tyson Wright (son of Nathan & Chrissy). He is still in intensive care in the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne after having a shunt put in to help his little heart on Tuesday. Tyson is about 9 weeks old. The reports to date are that the surgery seems to have been helpful and Tyson is coping well.
As you pray, pray for the Corps - starting with yourself and then working out to cover the whole community. As you do, please pray for the Banquet Sunday this week and remember to bring some food to share for lunch, and a few friends.
Also, please keep praying for Tyson Wright (son of Nathan & Chrissy). He is still in intensive care in the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne after having a shunt put in to help his little heart on Tuesday. Tyson is about 9 weeks old. The reports to date are that the surgery seems to have been helpful and Tyson is coping well.
Monday, 11 January 2010
New ideas
Now that 2010 is underway, it's worth letting everyone know about some new projects that are underway and will be coming to our centre this year:
- New Dawn is a partnership between Marion CSS and BP. Essentially the project houses people and provides them with a service station traineeship. We are at the stage of finding a house (at BP's expense) and finalising the paperwork necessary for the tenancies.
- SalvoPsyche is a partnership statewide between CSS and the Australian Psychological Association. This will provide free psychological consulations at our centre.
- Mental Health Community Access program. This is in the embryonic stage, but essentially is the result of the FaCHSIA (Dept of Families, Communities, Housing, Social Services and Indigenous Affairs) funding us to work through our CSS/ER program specifically with people that have mental health concerns. This will be in connection with the local mental health professionals.
- St Josephs Community Centre partnership - This is a partnership with the St Josephs Community Care in Mitchell Park. While the funding for the original tenancy support program fell over, we are continuing to pursue mutually beneficial client services.
- Community meals program. The Sundays@4 congregation are going to resurrect the community meals program in the evenings, probably after church on a Sunday.
- Recovery Cafe. This is another project in its embryonic stage. Our youth team are partnering with other Corps in the area and hope to run a recovery cafe some weekends around the bayside suburbs.
- Hallett Cove. This outpost has been on the cards for so long, and we continue to hope and pray that the zoning problems around our proposed property are resolved. At this stage we are still on track for a June launch in the Cove.
- Doorways. This is a rejuvenated model of offering support through our Community Services team. It is a comprehensive approach that is client centred and strengths focussed and will enable our team to use their limited resources to extend the services offered to visitors to our centre. (By the way, did you know that Marion CSS is the 9th largest in our territory, and no. 4 in our state?)
- Service podcasting. We are hoping in the near future to open up our services, via the internet, to those that are shut in or those that live a more 'virtual' experience. It may be that we can extend this to vodcasting as well.
- "PSA". While a 'pleasant Sunday afternoon' is not anything new, these will return in 2010 as a further means of the band's outreach program. Look out for the first one, planned for Sunday March 28.
These and other ideas are always on the table. Please pray for the team leaders and the Corps as a whole as we advance the work of the Kingdom through all sorts of means this year. It is going to be an exciting year to be around Marion Salvation Army.
Thursday, 7 January 2010
Raukkan... and welcome
Today I had the privilege of traveling to Raukkan (Point Macleay) to conduct the funeral service for an elderly lady of the Narrandjeri people (forgive my poor spelling, please). Apart from a unique cultural experience and being blessed to be asked in the first place, I had an insight into the value of ministry.
An elder of the community asked me over and started to cry as she thanked me for coming. "I never thought I would see The Salvation Army at Raukkan again". She then asked me about the Leggett family. They were appointed to The Salvation Army's work at Raukkan/ Pt Macleay straight from the training college. Mrs Leggett was apparently only 19 years old. However, both have left such a lasting impression from their ministry that there is local council permission for them to be buried among the people if that be their choice.
What legacy are we leaving from our ministry?
Oh... and a footnote to the blog note from this morning. Today Lucy hosted a young African widow with three children. After helping her in the shop, she gave her all sorts of information on our children's ministries and showed her into where our services are held. "I can feel God is here" was the lady's comment. Well done, Lucy. Let's pray for this young woman in our community.
Entertaining Angels
In Genesis 18 Abraham has a couple of visitors that he entertains and hosts beautifully. Turns out it was the angel of the Lord. He gets a blessing including the promise of a son, despite their age.
In Genesis 19 something similar happens... Lot hosts the same men/ angels and his family are saved from the destruction promised their city.
When we host people that come into our centre, could it be that we are hosting angels unknowingly? Could it be that we are blessed, or we are saved? Our hospitality and our service could have amazing and holy ramifications.
"Whatever you do for the least of these, you do it for me".
In Genesis 19 something similar happens... Lot hosts the same men/ angels and his family are saved from the destruction promised their city.
When we host people that come into our centre, could it be that we are hosting angels unknowingly? Could it be that we are blessed, or we are saved? Our hospitality and our service could have amazing and holy ramifications.
"Whatever you do for the least of these, you do it for me".
Tuesday, 5 January 2010
Cleaning Up
The great annual clean up has commenced. Thank you to everyone who has already volunteered to help by wiping, dusting, sorting, packing up and generally helping out as we prepare our facilities for the year ahead.
Jobs like these are menial at times but each time we put something away or clean something up we are making way for people to engage with our church and preparing for the many ways in which the gospel is communicated through our ministries.
It's not too late to come down and give a hand if you have the time. There are plenty of tasks still on the list near reception for people to 'adopt'.
Jobs like these are menial at times but each time we put something away or clean something up we are making way for people to engage with our church and preparing for the many ways in which the gospel is communicated through our ministries.
It's not too late to come down and give a hand if you have the time. There are plenty of tasks still on the list near reception for people to 'adopt'.
Monday, 4 January 2010
2010
Well, it's been a few weeks. Now it's time to get back into the swing of some sort of normality. Not always the easiest thing to do.
As we enter 2010, we are starting with our "Salvos Out There" series. Yesterday was a good start and it was evident in both congregations that people were engaging in worship.
Part of our declaration, as read out by the members of the congregation, stated, "We see ourselves as part of belonging communities that embrace others, seeking and believing for God's wholeness for every person". We also said that, "We build long term relationships and, like Jesus, we don't give up on people".
They're massive statements. Even though it's only 10.30 am I've got to admit that I've been stretched twice in this regard.
The statements aren't just ideals though. They are things that we need to strive for, and God helping us, we can.
Happy New Year everyone.
As we enter 2010, we are starting with our "Salvos Out There" series. Yesterday was a good start and it was evident in both congregations that people were engaging in worship.
Part of our declaration, as read out by the members of the congregation, stated, "We see ourselves as part of belonging communities that embrace others, seeking and believing for God's wholeness for every person". We also said that, "We build long term relationships and, like Jesus, we don't give up on people".
They're massive statements. Even though it's only 10.30 am I've got to admit that I've been stretched twice in this regard.
The statements aren't just ideals though. They are things that we need to strive for, and God helping us, we can.
Happy New Year everyone.
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