The In-Between Space

It is with mixed emotions that Ian and I prepare to leave New Zealand to serve as directors of the International Social Justice Commission in New York. As I sit in my house, surrounded by half-packed boxes and familiar belongings sorted into piles, the reality that we are moving appointments, cities and countries is beginning to sink in.

In this season of limbo, while we continue to patiently navigate the visa process that will allow us to live and work in New York, we are still very much present—cherishing precious moments with our children and friends and working to finish well in our current appointments. But we are also looking ahead to what is next: new roles, new surroundings and life in a new country.

This liminal space offers a gift. It gives time to reflect on what has been and to look with hope towards what will be.

As I write this final column as territorial secretary for Spiritual Life Development, I reflect on the past four years with deep gratitude. It has been a privilege to visit and serve alongside people across Fiji, Tonga, Samoa and Aotearoa New Zealand. A community of more than 200 people has gathered regularly through the monthly online prayer meetings and the annual Prayer Summit. Hundreds of officers, soldiers, staff and congregation members have participated in online spiritual retreats, and the Spiritual Life Network has produced and shared resources for Lent, Advent, Prayer Sundays and much more.

During this time, the territory has also experienced significant change. Local mission has been strengthened through Local Mission Delivery and the Connected Support Network. We have embraced a new Christ-centred Vision, refreshed our Mission Statement and worked to embed our Values. We are not the same Army we were in 2022—and neither is the world. There have been challenges, but there have also been profound, holy moments, such as Together Congress, where the presence of the Holy Spirit was unmistakable. I have discerned a growing hunger for God, for deeper connection and for faith lived out and love embodied in our communities. For this, I give thanks and glory to God.

We are not looking forward to saying goodbye to our adult children (and the dog), yet we are humbled by the privilege of serving the International Salvation Army and championing the justice of our holy and loving God.
Whatever season you find yourself in—whether reflecting on the past or preparing for what lies ahead—may you trust in the God of hope, joy and peace. That is certainly my intention.

Lt-Colonel Liz Gainsford
Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development