Forty Years of God’s Glory in Tonga
October in the Kingdom of Tonga started with a celebration of 40 years of faith, service and partnership between The Salvation Army and the community.
The anniversary celebrations brought together members of the Tongan Royal Family, dignitaries, church and community leaders, Salvation Army officers and corps members, staff, volunteers and supporters. Her Majesty Queen Nanasipau‘u Tuku‘aho was warmly acknowledged for the support she and the Royal Family have extended to The Salvation Army over many years.
Preparations began in early 2025, with small groups of officers prayerfully appointed to coordinate worship, music, decorations, media and the practical details. Behind the scenes, regional headquarters staff and officers stepped in where needed, working late into the night to make sure everything was ready. Salvationists opened their hearts to welcome guests, bringing hospitality and teamwork.
Prayer was at the heart of this shared effort. Countdown prayers were launched in April 2026, with every corps contributing prayer points so Salvationists across Tonga could pray for the same topics each day. For the regional leaders, this daily rhythm became the heartbeat of the preparations, uniting the region in faith and purpose.
A wonderful weekend
The celebrations began with an officers’ council and continued with a Friday evening gathering, a Saturday prayer breakfast and cultural night, and a thanksgiving Sunday service. Music was a strong feature throughout the weekend, with Tongan musicians joined by brass players from Aotearoa New Zealand, while the cultural programme gave corps and community groups opportunities to share songs, performances and expressions of Tongan identity and faith.
The celebrations had a powerful impact on Chief Secretary Colonel Jennifer Groves. ‘This was my first visit to Tonga and I was so richly blessed. The sincere and life-transforming testimonies affirmed that the spirit of God is moving in Tonga. The enthusiasm and joy of the young people reflected their happiness in being followers of Jesus—their singing was amazing! The weekend provided so many opportunities for people to express their culture and their passion for God. Tongan Salvationists have a beautiful spirit, a heart for God and a desire to see God’s kingdom grow. It was a privilege and a delight to share in this celebration. My life has been so enriched. Thank you Tonga.’
Territorial Secretary for Personnel Major Kylie Tong also had some reflections from the celebrations: ‘Looking back on all that God has done was inspiring, but what struck me most was seeing the life and energy of the Army today. It was especially encouraging to see so many children and young people actively involved and to get a glimpse of the wide range of ministries making a difference in communities every day.’
Vaini brass band perfrorming their item on Friday night;
Starting out
When the Army arrived in Tonga in 1986, it was a new denomination in a nation where other churches had deep roots. The early years required patience, prayer and a willingness to listen and learn. Relationships were built as Salvationists connected with communities, earned trust and sought to understand how the Army’s mission could be expressed in a distinctly Tongan context.
Over time, the mission took root in ways that reflected values deeply held across Tonga: faith, family, community, respect, service and love for one another.
Today, the Army serves people across Tonga through four corps—Fua‘amotu, Nuku’alofa, Talasiu and Vaini—and two developing corps plants in Kolovai and Vava‘u. These faith communities provide worship, Bible study, Sunday school, women’s groups and opportunities for people to connect, grow and serve together.
Practical support remains central to the Army’s work, from food and clothing assistance, kindergartens and services for older people to children’s activities, addiction support, court and prison visits, and emergency response during natural disasters. Initiatives such as shared gardens also build self-sufficiency and resilience, reflecting the Army’s commitment to meeting physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs.
Always in partnership
Reflecting afterwards, regional leaders Majors Vakatoto and Sevenaia Wawa say the credit belongs to the team around them and to God. ‘It was the prayerful unity of officers, soldiers and Salvationists that carried us all through,’ says Vakatoto. ‘Above all, we give glory to God for His faithfulness and the leading of the Holy Spirit. We look forward to deeper unity, greater service and the Army being an even stronger witness for Christ.’
‘Above all, we give glory to God for His faithfulness and the leading of the Holy Spirit. We look forward to deeper unity, greater service and the Army being an even stronger witness for Christ.’
Throughout the celebrations, one message stood out: the Army’s story in Tonga has never been one of working alone. It has always been a partnership with the people of Tonga, who made space for the Army, offered guidance and support, and opened their arms to embrace its mission.
Jennifer took a moment to thank all who have given their time, skills, resources and prayers to the mission in Tonga, saying that ‘Our officers, soldiers, corps members, volunteers and supporters devote countless hours to serving others. Their commitment is often demonstrated quietly and humbly, without seeking recognition or reward. Yet the impact of their work is felt by many.’
As the celebrations looked back with gratitude, they also looked forwards with hope and a prayer that the Army will continue walking alongside the people of Tonga for generations to come.
The regional choir singing on Sunday morning;
