Life in a Community of Faith 

Fundamental to the shaping of my faith over the years has been quality time spent, away from my responsibilities, with other women who love Jesus. These precious days of sharing life outside of the normal routine in a camp-like environment—prioritising teaching, prayer, ministry and relationships—have been key markers in my spiritual formation.  

In this edition of SALT, on page 28, Jules Badger reports on the courageous women of Waitakere Corps and Community Ministries, who not only spent three days away together at The Salvation Army Blue Mountain Adventure Centre, but pushed their boundaries by white-water rafting, climbing high ropes and a rock-wall, and jumping off cliffs! Fellow camper Lt-Colonel Sheryl Jarvis said the women have formed relationships with each other that continue once they are back from camp ‘…they built relationships and now feel a sense of connection with and care for each other’. 

The bonds formed at such getaways start early for young people at Salvation Army, with Easter Camps (report back on TSA Easter camps in the next edition) and children’s days out (see page X). For many children, away days and camps are the first time they are challenged to look at their personal beliefs outside of their families and church settings. The environment of fun and prayer, reflection and teaching has been pivotal for many children and will create memories and relationships that will sustain them into their adult years. 

Life changes are also happening in other communal settings, in places like Addington Supportive Accommodation and Bridge Te Arawhata in Otautahi Christchurch. On page 20, I encourage you to read the impact these places of recovery have had on lives of Rewi and Michael, who bravely share their struggles of addiction and abuse, with SALT writer Kelly Cooper.  

In all of these stories are key themes of prioritising ourselves within a faith community, seeking and finding support and above all else Jesus Christ and the hope only he can give. 

Bible verse 

You were cleansed from your sins when you obeyed the truth, so now you must show sincere love to each other as brothers and sisters. Love each other deeply with all your heart.  

(1 Peter 1:22, NLT) 

Vivienne Hill, Editor