Elsewhere in the world

by

PAPUA NEW GUINEA—“Sew to make a difference” was the theme for a three-day sewing training that took place at the Kaugere Church. Captain Sisten Kenimo taught women from Rabia and Kogeva settlements in Sabama and Kilakila to make “meri blouses,” an article of clothing in much demand.

The event had two goals: First, to provide—through their sewing—clothing for their immediate families; and second, to realize their skills and to implement them to generate extra income towards meeting the basic needs of their families. The spiritual application presented the biblical principal of women as helpers—needed in this male dominated country.

Elsewhere, during a Youth Capacity Development meeting at Meii village, Ilavapari, a training time addressed the needs of the homeless and the community’s responsibility to them. Captain Hondi Orovori initiated the project with the backing of Brother Lake Miller, youth mission worker from the South Western Division.

After the meeting, Brother Lake commented, “A scale was removed from our eyes where we could clearly see the needs of the homeless.”

The youth took active roles in planning and building a shelter.

UNITED KINGDOM—In Stapleford, the opening of a charity store in 2005—Nicely Saved—began a project to sponsor a ministry to young people there. Profits from the store were earmarked to finance a youth café in the area.

The community rallied behind the cause, and a manager and volunteers came from the corps and other churches.

The store produced sufficient revenue for leaders to apply for planning permission to remodel a dilapidated building behind the shop into a youth café.

Divisional Commander Major Jonathan Roberts—supported by Mayor Councillor David Grindell—officially opened the Link Café in May. Many from the community attended its grand opening. Initial plans are for the coffee shop to be open two nights a week for young people aged 11 to 16.

The project was an effective tool in unifying local churches, the corps and the community, pulling them together as one to accomplish the vision they shared.

INDIA—This spring, the India South Western Territory conducted a Writers’ Conference, attended by 25 delegates. In opening remarks, Chief Secretary Lt. Colonel M. Ponniah spoke about the purpose of writing—especially writing on salvation, deliverance and happiness—and gave a message based on Exodus 31:18 and Jeremiah 30:2.

Guest experts discussed various topics, from using the Bible as resource and inspiration to writing about life’s experience. Major K.M. Solomon, editor, covered the story of Salvation Army literature and how to write an article. Major Charles V. John, assistant editor, dealt with the influence of Christian literature and how to write news and reports.

Colonel Yesudayamma Devarapalli, territorial president of women’s ministries, delivered a message—“Write Vision”—based on Habakkuk 2:2. Territorial Commander Colonel Jayapaul Devarapalli challenged delegates to be a “Writer for the Master” and spoke from Jeremiah 30:2 and Revelation 1:19.