Salvationist Podcast

Since Alpha Canada was established in 1998, more than 1.4 million people in Canada have experienced Alpha. It’s a great tool for churches to introduce people to Jesus and also help believers deepen their faith. Many ministry units in the Canada and Bermuda Territory are running Alpha, including Moncton Citadel Community Church in New Brunswick. On this episode, we hear from Moncton’s corps officer, Major James Anderson, and Marie Caillouette, a member of the church who is also the administrative assistant there. Marie has her own incredible story of transformation through Alpha, having taken the program while she was in prison. She shares her journey, and they talk about how Alpha has had a major impact on their church. Explore Alpha resources for Salvation Army ministry unitsRead how Alpha is changing lives in other ministry units in our territory

It was nicknamed “The Beast”—the massive wildfire that ripped through Fort McMurray, Alberta, in May 2016. It forced the entire city of almost 90,000 people to evacuate and spread across approximately 590,000 hectares—an area larger than Prince Edward Island. For this episode, we’re marking the 10-year anniversary of the fire by talking to officers and Salvationists who were there in Fort McMurray when it happened; people who experienced the evacuation and the pain of loss firsthand; people who were part of the Army’s emergency disaster services response, both during the fire and long after it ended. How did they experience that fire, as individuals and as a church? What has been the key to healing after this devastating event, and what is the legacy of the fire today?This episode features:Verna Thomas-Winsor, a member of the Salvation Army church in Fort McMurray, who lost her home and more;Major Steve Hibbs, corps officer in Fort McMurray in 2016, now retired and still living there; Majors Bond and Marina Jennings, assistant corps officers in 2016; andCaptain Ian Scott, who led the Salvation Army EDS team during re-entry following the evacuation.

At The Salvation Army's New Hope Leslieville shelter in Toronto, a monthly jam session gives residents an opportunity to experience the joy of music, thanks to Harmonies for Hope.The program is led by a volunteer, Rob Dixon, who shares how an encounter with a man experiencing homelessness inspired Harmonies for Hope, and how the program creates moments of beauty and dignity for people who otherwise would not have access to music.On this episode, Rob takes us behind the scenes at one of the sessions, and we meet Tony, who shares his musical gifts and his story.

On this past Christmas Day, a fire broke out at The Salvation Army in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, completely destroying the building. It was a devastating blow for Salvation Army ministry in the community. But with the support of the town and its people, the Army is still giving hope amid the ashes, ensuring the mission continues even without the home base of a building. On this episode, we are joined by Prince Albert’s corps officer, Major Ed Dean, who tells us about the fire and its aftermath, how The Salvation Army has pivoted to ensure its corps and community services continue, and how Salvationists and friends in Prince Albert and beyond can support the mission. The Salvation Army is deeply grateful to our matching sponsors, the Murray & Audrey Neufeld Charitable Foundation and the Malcolm Jenkins Family Foundation Inc., and all of the generous donors who have contributed to the Plates of Hope Campaign to date. Together we have raised more than $220,000 toward our goal of $250,000. Help us reach our goal by donating before March 31.

For Captains Chris and Nichole Maxwell, two Salvation Army officers from Australia, moving to Canada was a leap of faith. They had never visited the country prior to moving here, they'd be bringing three young children with them, and it was in the middle of a pandemic. But trusting in God’s calling to overseas service has been an immense blessing for the Maxwells and for their church, Kingston Citadel in Ontario, where they have been corps officers since January 2022. On this episode, we talk about their calling; about some of the biggest and most surprising differences between The Salvation Army in Australia and Canada; and about their church’s process of rebuilding after Covid and how Kingston Citadel has a renewed vision and is thriving today.

Today, Auxiliary-Captain Matthew Pittman is the corps officer at Robert's Arm-Pilley's Island Corps—back at the very church where he grew up in rural Newfoundland and Labrador. But 10 years ago, he couldn't have been further away from a life of ministry.On this episode of the Salvationist podcast, Auxiliary-Captain Matthew shares his journey, from addiction and depression to salvation and Salvation Army officership. Interested in officership? Visit Salvationist.ca/candidates for more information.

On this episode, Commissioner Lee Graves, territorial commander, and Lt-Colonel Brenda Murray, director of international development, sit down for an enlightening discussion about this year's Partners in Mission campaign. The Partners in Mission Self-Denial Campaign is an annual effort to raise funds for The Salvation Army’s ministry internationally. For the Canada and Bermuda Territory, this year’s campaign will focus on the Latin America North Territory. Lt-Colonel Brenda, who recently travelled to Panama and Costa Rica to see the Army's ministry there, gives us her first-hand insights into the campaign and why it’s really about faith in action. Resources for the 2026 campaign are now available at Salvationist.ca/PIM.

The Salvation Army was born on the streets of London, England, and urban ministry is still central to our calling. But since its founding, the Army has expanded far beyond the urban centres, and in the Canada and Bermuda Territory today, about half of our ministry units are in urban settings, while the other half are in rural areas. What are the different strengths and challenges in city and rural ministries? And what can those who are ministering in these different contexts learn from each other? Major Mike Hoeft, an area commander in the Prairies and Northern Territories Division, and Lieutenant Jeremy Thompson, a corps officer in downtown Toronto, share their thoughts on these questions and more in this urban-rural ministries roundtable. 

In The Salvation Army, we have an abundance of gifted composers and songwriters, both experienced and emerging. And that’s why Music Editorial, which is based in the United Kingdom and Ireland Territory, began a composition mentoring program. Through the year-long program, an experienced composer or songwriter meets one-on-one with a new one, giving them practical as well as spiritual support, creating a relationship that involves both teaching and sharing faith together.On this episode, two participants in the program share their experience—Simon Gough from the Canada and Bermuda Territory, in the mentor role, and Dominique Bradley from the United Kingdom, in the emerging songwriter role.Songs featured in this episode:I Rest in YouMaranathaMore links:Visit the Music Editorial Facebook pageLearn more about Salvation WorshipFind the latest volume of Salvation Worship

The Canada and Bermuda Territory currently has about 9,300 employees spread across hundreds of ministry units, making up a significant amount of the leadership in the Army today. So how is our territory equipping our employees for success? And how can we better harness the skills and diversity in our ranks? On this episode of the podcast we’re sitting down with Paul Carew, who is the leadership development secretary for Canada and Bermuda, and a lifelong Salvationist. We look at how the Army’s leadership is evolving, the importance of staying mission-focused, and what gives him hope for the Army’s future.

For Women’s History Month, Salvationist is spotlighting inspiring Salvationist women from across Canada and Bermuda, so we're delighted to welcome Dr. Lucinda McQuarrie to the podcast. Dr. Lucinda is a lifelong Salvationist and a medical doctor in Langley, B.C. On this episode we talk about her faith journey—from being an officers’ kid, to her current ministry as a lay leader at The Salvation Army’s Willows Church and Family Life Centre. And we explore how she lives out her faith in her medical practice, and why her own experience of miraculous healing reminds her that God is in control. Meet four more inspiring Salvationist women: read article.

As we prepare to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, we sit down with Corinne Peterkin, who is the Indigenous liaison at The Salvation Army’s Centre of Hope in Winnipeg. Corinne shares some of her own personal story as a Sixties Scoop survivor, and she walks us through the many ways the Centre of Hope is living the journey of reconciliation today. As she notes, reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples is not a one-day thing, and she offers some really helpful, practical suggestions for how Salvationists and other ministry units can practise reconciliation as well. Further Reading and ResourcesWho We Are by Murray Sinclair (audiobook recommended)For Joshua by Richard Wagamese (audiobook recommended)You Were Made for This World edited by Stephanie Sinclair and Sara SinclairNational Centre for Truth and Reconciliation website

What started as a fun hobby for Captain Matthew Trottier has become a meaningful ministry as he uses his magical talents to share the gospel message. As "Major Magic," Captain Matt proves that anything can be used for God’s glory—even a rabbit in a hat. Major Magic will be performing at Oakville Community Church's Fall Family Carnival this Saturday, September 13, 2025. Visit their Facebook page for more information: Facebook Page

This summer, John Lam retires after 30 years of ministry with the Canadian Staff Band, including 17 years as bandmaster.As he wraps up his time with the band, Lam reflects on his life and faith, from his life-transforming experience at National Music Camp, to a time of personal tragedy and how God has been faithful to him, to some of his most memorable experiences with the staff band, and why music is still critical to the Army’s mission today.Canadian Staff Band websiteThis episode features music from two CSB albums: Undaunted and Glorified

In The Salvation Army, it’s common to have specific appointments for women’s ministries, as well as for children and youth. But in many places, there is no equivalent position for men’s ministries. Not so in the Ontario Division, where Captain Josh Howard is the divisional men’s ministry resource officer, along with his appointment as corps officer in Orillia. On this episode of the podcast we talk about the importance—and uniqueness—of men’s ministries, the male loneliness crisis, and how any corps can build a successful ministry for men, with all generations involved. 

About 50 percent of Gen Z in North America identify as "nones," meaning they don’t have any religious affiliation. The big question is: why? Why have so many left the church? And for those who haven’t, why have they stayed? This episode features a roundtable discussion with Major April McNeilly, who has been researching Gen Z and Jesus for her master’s degree; and her daughter Rebekah McNeilly, a Gen Z Salvationist who works in the corps mission department at territorial headquarters and hosts The Story We Tell Ourselves podcast.In this candid and thought-provoking conversation, we get into the trends and data, the personal lived experiences of Gen Zs, and the heart of the gospel message that is still transforming young people today.Read the first article in Major April's series on Generation Z and Jesus.

In Uniacke Square, a public housing neighbourhood in Halifax, you’ll find a Salvation Army centre that doesn’t look much like a Salvation Army centre, aside from the sign out front and the bright Red Shield. Occupying three adjoining rowhouses, Open Arms Halifax offers a second home for many residents. It’s a place to belong, to receive support, and to experience the love of Jesus in practical ways. And given that two-thirds of the population of Uniacke Square are under the age of 25, it should come as no surprise that much of the Army’s ministry there focuses on youth. Mitch Brower, the Open Arms program co-ordinator, takes us behind the scenes and shares how the centre is having a big impact in the community. And mom-of-three Kristina shares her family's experience with the centre.

"Together we can move mountains, one hill at a time." That's the motto of Pink Days, a new program at The Salvation Army in Surrey, B.C. Through Pink Days, the Army supports women of all ages and stages, with a particular focus on mothers and newcomers who may not have established networks in their new home. Major Diane Cross, corps officer at Surrey Ministries, gives us an overview of the program and why it fills an important need in their local context. And Xiomara shares her personal experience with Pink Days, and how the group has become a family to her. Surrey Ministries: Pink Days

The Salvation Army has always had a flair for the dramatic. Drama, in its various forms, has been a part of our ministry since the beginning.But why? What did the Founders and Salvationists since then understand about the power of this art form that has kept it alive in the Army for more than 150 years? How did we get from Evangeline Booth’s pop-up street performances to modern-day musicals and TikToks?For this episode, we sit down with Wendy Woodland, a Salvationist from Corner Brook, N.L., who is also a professional actor, singer, and more. She shares her thoughts on the Army's dramatic history and how we can keep it alive today.And we chat with Dara Murphy, Elizabeth Shepherd, and Colonel Glen Shepherd from Montreal Citadel. This trio recently spearheaded a contemporary reimagining of a classic Gowans and Larsson musical, Man Mark II, for the citadel's 140th anniversary. They share how it all came together and why drama ministry is having a lasting impact on the congregation.

From its beginning, The Salvation Army has been committed to gender equality. And in many ways, we have lived up to this commitment, and our women officers have flourished as ministers and leaders. But in some areas, gender inequity persists and there is more work to be done.On this episode, Commissioner Lee Graves, territorial commander for Canada and Bermuda, and Lt-Colonel Wanda Vincent, gender equity officer, have an honest conversation about where we’ve succeeded with gender equity and where we’ve missed the mark. And we look at the concrete steps that are being taken to ensure that every officer can fully live out their calling.Learn more about the Canada and Bermuda Territory's gender equity work: Salvationist.ca/gender-equityWatch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel.

Today's kids and teens have never known a world without the internet or smartphones. And while there are many benefits to online life, there are also risks. Kids who spend more time on screens are more likely to show symptoms of anxiety and depression. And a recent study of Ontario teens found that one in five had experienced cyberbullying. So, there are many reasons for parents, youth leaders and pastors to be concerned. But there’s a lot we can do to keep kids safe online.On this episode, Nancy Turley, territorial abuse advisor for Canada and Bermuda, walks us through some of the dangers young people may face online, and shares practical suggestions and steps parents can take to stop problems before they start. Further Reading and Resources:Online Child Sexual Exploitation (Public Safety Canada)Online Safety (KidsHealth)Digital Safety Resources (Be Internet Awesome) NetSmartzKidsThe Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt

As executive director of the Bruce Oake Recovery Centre in Winnipeg, Greg Kyllo leads by example. He has experienced addiction first-hand, having struggled with alcoholism for many years. Now sober for 19 years and a member of The Salvation Army's Heritage Park Temple, Greg shares his personal journey, his professional insights into sobriety and an encouraging message for those who might be struggling. "Recovery isn't just possible," says Greg. "It's probable."Listen to our previous episode on alcohol and society.Learn more about the Bruce Oake Recovery Centre.

Every year, many people participate in something called “Dry January,” a recent trend where people give up drinking for the month. For some, it’s a kind of post-holiday detox; for others, it’s an opportunity to rethink their relationship with alcohol generally.The Salvation Army has long held a sober stance on alcohol. But where does that position come from? And how is it still relevant today? In this episode, two Salvationists share their perspectives on the topic. The first is Dr. Adrian Bonner, who joins us from the United Kingdom, where he is a professor and long-term academic researcher into alcohol and society. Along with his academic work, Adrian is a consultant providing health-related support for The Salvation Army’s social services in the UK.We also chat with Canadian Salvationist Dr. Jim Read, who will offer his perspective on the Army’s International Positional Statement on Alcohol in Society. Jim was part of the group that created this statement in 2015, and he shares how it came together—and what he hopes other Salvationists will take away from it.Further Reading and Resources:The Army's International Positional Statement on Alcohol in SocietyArticles and book chapters on this topic by Professor Adrian BonnerIn Darkest England, and the Way Out by William Booth

Located on the outskirts of St. John’s, N.L., on the east coast of Canada, Conception Bay South is a small town of about 27,000 people. But thanks to a thriving live-stream ministry, the reach of the local Salvation Army corps goes far beyond the bounds of the town, as tens of thousands of people tune into their Sunday services each week. The reach is enormous—and so is the impact. Majors Chris and Claudette Pilgrim, the CBS corps officers, and Lindsey Andrews, live-stream ministry co-ordinator, share how the ministry works and has grown over the years—especially since the pandemic. And most importantly, they share real stories of how the ministry is changing lives in Newfoundland and Labrador  and around the world.Conception Bay South Corps YouTube ChannelConception Bay South Corps Facebook Page (NEW)

The commissioning and ordination of new lieutenants is one of the most exciting events on the Salvation Army calendar. But what happens after our new officers march out of the sanctuary and into their first appointments?Lieutenant Krishna McFarlane was commissioned in 2023, and is now the corps officer at Living Hope Community Church in Winnipeg. In this episode, she talks about her first year of officership—how she and her son have navigated the transition; how the church has welcomed her and grown, more than tripling attendance since her appointment; and what she would say to other Salvationists who might be considering officership.

Though Colonel Wendy is a Canadian officer, she is a true citizen of the world, having spent most of her officership in appointments around the globe. And she’s a passionate advocate for social justice, drawing on years of front-line experience, as well as her own theological studies. Colonel Wendy is currently the director of The Salvation Army’s International Social Justice Commission, along with her husband, Colonel Ian. She’s also a member of the Army’s International Theological Council and chair of the International Moral and Social Issues Council. On this episode, she gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the Army’s work at the United Nations; she talks about why it’s important to be an informed advocate—to understand the “why” behind what we do; and she shares some of her own spiritual journey and how God is moving her life today. International Social Justice Commission website

Whether hurricanes or wildfires, floods or other crises, The Salvation Army has a robust emergency disaster services (EDS) ministry across the Canada and Bermuda Territory and beyond. As the EDS director for the British Columbia Division, Ian Pollard has responded to emergencies large and small. And for his service following the massive floods in B.C. back in 2021, he received an Emergency Management Exemplary Service Award from the Government of Canada. On this episode, he shares not only about his EDS work, but also about his deep faith as a lifelong Salvationist and his commitment to the mission of The Salvation Army.Learn more about the Army's EDS ministry, including volunteer opportunities, at SalvationArmy.ca/EDS.

On October 15, people around the world will observe Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. While pregnancy and infant loss (PAIL) is often considered a taboo topic, the experience is relatively common. About 1 in 5 pregnancies in Canada ends in miscarriage. And around the world, approximately 1 in 6 people, women and men, experience infertility. There is a great pastoral need to support those experiencing PAIL and childlessness. So, how can we respond?In this episode, Captain Tinisha Reid, corps officer at Edmonton Temple, shares about her own experience of pregnancy loss and infertility, and Captain Laura van Schaick, divisional director of women’s ministries in Ontario, walks us through a Salvation Army resource for hosting a "Hannah Service."Hannah Service Resources

When you look at trends in the church today, the news isn’t always encouraging. Attendance has declined in recent years, and many churches have struggled to find their footing again following the pandemic.But the big trends don't tell the whole story. In this episode, we are looking at a new, exciting movement towards church revitalization in The Salvation Army. Majors Bill and Debra Blackman share their hands-on experience with corps revitalization at Cariboo Hill Temple in Burnaby, B.C. And Major Everett Barrow of the territorial corps mission department talks about a new corps revitalization guide that is being rolled out, and how the Army can embrace what God is doing in Canada and Bermuda today. Links:Corps mission websiteCariboo Hill Temple website**Guide now available for download here.

There are two important days of remembrance and action this month: the Salvation Army's International Day of Prayer for Victims of Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking on September 22, and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30. These two issues are not unrelated. Indigenous women and girls make up about 50 percent of trafficking victims in Canada, despite only being about 5% of the country’s population. Why is this happening? And how can we stop it? In this episode, Major Ray Lamont (territorial modern slavery and human trafficking response co-ordinator for Canada and Bermuda) and Captain Crystal Porter (territorial Indigenous ministries consultant) talk about the why behind this staggering statistic. And we look at how the Army is currently fighting modern slavery and human trafficking (MSHT) in our territory, and how Salvationists can walk the road of justice and reconciliation year round.MSHT Info and ResourcesSalvation Army MSHT Response WebsiteResources for the Day of Prayer for Victims of MSHTMSHT TrainingIndigenous MinistriesSalvation Army Indigenous Ministries WebsiteResources for Truth and Reconciliation Sunday (Orange Shirt Day)General Resources

What place does The Salvation Army have in the halls of government? Aren't we supposed to be "apolitical"?On this episode, we get political with Major Rick Zelinsky, territorial director of public affairs. Major Zelinsky gives us an inside look at the recent Salvation Army Week on the Hill, which brought 60 Army representatives to Ottawa to influence and inform lawmakers and politicians on behalf of the people we serve.And we look at the "how" and "why" behind events like Hill Week—how the Army uses its voice to address issues such as poverty and gender-based violence; and why public affairs is kingdom work, going all the way back to the Founder himself.

What's cooking at the Salvation Army corps in Lewisporte, N.L.? A fun new program for youth—the junior chef academy! Major Darlene Burt, corps officer, and Lorelei Cole, children and youth ministries director, share how these cooking classes for kids and teens are building relationships with families and raising the profile of the Army in this small town.

Many places in The Salvation Army have a staff band or a staff songsters brigade. But how many have a staff worship team? Here in the Canada and Bermuda Territory, we have NEON. This territorial worship group made its debut back in 2016. But last November marked the beginning of a new era for the group, as NEON became an official staff section—the only worship team to have this designation anywhere in the Army world. In this episode, we sit down with Simon Gough, the leader of NEON, to talk about the group’s mission and how it can support worship teams across the territory. And we discuss broader issues facing worship leaders today, and how Salvation Army song writing builds up our movement. Visit NEON's websiteFind NEON on social: Facebook / InstagramListen to NEON on Spotify

Italy and Greece are known for being popular tourist destinations. But did you know that The Salvation Army has been ministering in Italy since 1887? Greece is a more recent addition to the Army world, with work commencing in 2007. Today, the Italy and Greece Territory is headed up by Lt-Colonels Andrew and Darlene Morgan, Canadian officers who are no strangers to international service. In fact, they have spent more of their officership serving outside Canada than in their home country.In this episode of the podcast, they give us a non-tourist look at these countries—the pressing social issues they face and how the Army is responding. They also talk about the Army’s long-standing relationship with the Catholic Church, and how God is at work and changing lives in this territory.

Happy National Volunteer Week! On this episode of the podcast, we're delighted to welcome two long-time Salvation Army volunteers, Bruce and Irene Finkel.Volunteers are often called “the army behind the Army”—and with good reason. There’s no way The Salvation Army could achieve its mission without the thousands of people across Canada and Bermuda who give their time and talents in service.Over many decades, Bruce and Irene, who hail from Wetaskiwin, Alberta, have volunteered in just about any way you can think of. They talk about some of their most meaningful experiences and the importance of mentorship in volunteering. And they share their thoughts on how the Army can make volunteering more accessible for people with disabilities, reflecting on Irene’s own experience with MS.

In 2021, when The Salvation Army decided to restructure its ministries in Halifax, there was a unique opportunity to plant a new church—and so was born Encounter Church. In this episode of the podcast, Captains Brent and Melissa Haas, corps officers, talk about what it was like to plant a church during Covid; Encounter's humble beginnings in a condo common room and how it's grown tremendously since then; and how a simple slice of pizza has helped the church connect with hundreds of young people, sparking new ministries and, ultimately, leading people to Christ. Find Encounter Church on social media: Facebook / Instagram

On the east side of downtown Toronto, there is a trio of three-story Victorian houses that, together, form The Salvation Army’s Archibald Centre and Bunton Lodge, a halfway house to help ex-offenders transition back to life on the outside, after they’ve served their time in prison. On this episode of the podcast, we go inside Archibald and Bunton to get a first-hand look at how the Army helps men reintegrate into the community after incarceration. Along the way, we'll meet Art Rasmusson, executive director, Juliane Martin, chaplain and director of spiritual care, and Kenny, a former resident who has successfully rebuilt his life after staying at the house.

Making our churches a welcoming place for new people is so important. We want the people who come through our doors to feel the love of God through us, to have a sense of belonging that will bring them back and into deeper relationship with Christ. But what does a welcoming church actually look like? Leanne Friesen is the executive minister of the Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec and an expert on this topic. On this episode of the podcast, she shares her insights with us. Visit Leanne's website.Download Leanne's handout, "More Than Comfy Pews."Learn about Leanne's new book, Grieving Room: Making Space for All the Hard Things After Death and Loss.

Suffering is something that no one wants to go through—but it’s also something that none of us can avoid. So, what can we do when we find ourselves in a period of great difficulty? And how can we help others who are suffering? Dr. Aimee Patterson, a Christian ethics consultant at The Salvation Army’s Ethics Centre in Winnipeg, has thought very deeply about this topic—and not just academically. On a personal level, she has had an intense experience with suffering, having had brain cancer. And she’s recently released a book on the subject called Suffering Well and Suffering With: Reclaiming Marks of Christian Identity. On this episode of the podcast, Aimee tells us about her journey with cancer, what she’s learned from the story of Job, and how the Army can better serve suffering humanity. Learn more about Aimee's book.Learn more about the Ethics Centre.

How did you end up at The Salvation Army? You can ask any Salvationist that question and you’re always going to get an interesting answer. Maricarmen Raudales is no exception. She is the executive director of L'Abri d'Espoir, the only Salvation Army shelter for women in Quebec. She's also a soldier at Montreal Citadel, where she's involved in multiple ministries.In this episode, Maricarmen shares how the Army is fighting against conjugal violence in Quebec, what inspires her about the Army today, and how she learned the Army is far more than just a thrift store.

On this episode of the Salvationist podcast, we welcome Major Len Ballantine, former leader of the Canadian Staff Songsters and the International Staff Songsters, a prolific composer, and one of the giants of contemporary Salvation Army music.Over the course of this wide-ranging interview, Major Ballantine takes us through his life’s journey—from his salvation experience at the Salvation Army corps in Windsor, Ontario, to his retirement from active ministry last fall. 

June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada, an opportunity to honour Indigenous peoples, listen to and learn from them, and renew our commitment to walk in truth and reconciliation.For this episode of the podcast, we talk with Danny Zacharias and Chris Hoklotubbe, two Indigenous scholars and followers of Jesus who study theology from an Indigenous perspective. Danny is also one of the presenters at The Salvation Army’s INSPIRE Conference and Congress this month.In this episode, Danny and Chris share some of their personal journeys, what it means to read the Bible from an Indigenous lens, and how we can take practical steps towards reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.

Fathers have an important role to play in the development of their children. And yet, there are very few parenting programs out there specifically for dads. It’s a gap that desperately needs to be filled, and that’s why the Salvation Army’s Bethany Hope Centre in Ottawa created the Dads Matter program.On this episode of the podcast, we talk with Merlin, a father of five who’s found an invaluable support system through the program. But first, we sit down with co-ordinator Rachel Day, to learn more about why Dads Matter really matters. Learn more about Dads Matter: https://bethanyhopecentre.org/fathering

This summer, the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s College for Officer Training will welcome the first session of cadets into its new eight-year training paradigm.On this episode of the podcast, Major Deana Zelinsky, training principal, and Dr. Michael Boyce, Director of Program Implementation, give us all the details on what's new at CFOT.

How is The Salvation Army cultivating new worship music today? One way is through Salvation Worship, a publication of the Canada and Bermuda Territory.  Laura Rowsell, worship ministries director at Glenmore Temple in Calgary, is one of the contributors to Salvation Worship. In this episode of the podcast, she talks about her song-writing process and why it’s important for the Army to cultivate its own worship music identity.To learn more about Salvation Worship, visit salvationworship.com. Laura's song: Take My Life (I Am Yours)

This June, Salvationists and friends from across the territory will descend on Toronto for the INSPIRE Conference and Congress. With a full week of events, workshops and services planned, it’s going to be an inspiring, once-in-a-lifetime event.On this episode of the podcast, Commissioners Floyd and Tracey Tidd, territorial leaders, share highlights of the week and their own favourite congress memories.Learn more about INSPIRE at Salvationist.ca/Inspire

As Lent comes to a close, we look forward to celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus at Easter. There are many ways that we can approach this sacred time, and to that end, the corps mission department has put together a collection of resources for Holy Week and Easter.One of those resources is for holding a Tenebrae service, a re-enactment of the night before the Crucifixion that usually takes place on the Thursday of Holy Week (Maundy Thursday).Captain Renée McFadden, corps officer at The Willows in Langley, B.C., created the resource, and on this episode of the podcast, she walks us through this special service.Download Captain McFadden's Tenebrae resource: https://salvationist.ca/files/salvationarmy/corps-ministries/resources/LENT_2023/Good_Enough_-_Maundy_Thursday_Tenebrae_Service.pdfFind all the corps mission resources for Lent, Holy Week and Easter: https://salvationist.ca/corps-mission-resource/resource-toolkit/lent-resources/

This year, the Salvationist podcast celebrates International Women’s Day with a very special guest—Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, The Salvation Army’s World President of Women’s Ministries.Women’s ministries is, of course, nothing new for The Salvation Army. But in this episode, Commissioner Rosalie talks about how the Army has been “re-imagining” women’s ministries around the world, including the new Battle Cry initiative.*And as Commissioner Rosalie and General Brian Peddle prepare to retire later this year, she reflects on how God has sustained her through 47 years of ministry, and what’s next for them as they return home to Canada.*Battle Cry is a global initiative to overcome systemic social injustice against women and girls. As part of The Salvation Army’s efforts to achieve gender equity, international Women’s Ministries has identified three social justice focuses for individuals, groups and territories to adopt: access to healthcare, increased opportunities for education, and the elimination of violence against women and girls. Our battle cry is for women, but it belongs to everyone. Find out more: sar.my/battlecry

It's been one year since Russia invaded Ukraine, starting a war that has torn the country apart and forced millions of Ukrainians to flee. For The Salvation Army, the past year has been a time of intense ministry in action, especially in Ukraine and the surrounding countries. Debbie Clarke is one of many Salvationists serving on the front lines. She is a senior soldier at Winnipeg’s Heritage Park Temple and an emergency disaster services specialist. She was recently deployed to Romania for two months, where she supported the Army’s ministry to Ukrainian refugees in Bucharest.In this episode of the podcast, Debbie shares a testimony about her experiences. Her testimony was recorded live during a Sunday morning meeting at Heritage Park Temple in January. 

As the corps officer in a small town in Newfoundland, Lieutenant April Ward was looking for ways The Salvation Army could better serve her community. Some brainstorming led her to a brilliant idea, and in this episode of the podcast, Lieutenant April shares how “family night theme bags” have transformed youth ministry at her corps—and sparked a new ministry to seniors, too.