Every so often, God brings his people to a place where stopping to take stock is not a sign of hesitation, but of wisdom.

In the opening chapter of Joshua, we meet Israel at such a moment. Moses’ leadership had come to an end. Years of preparation lay behind them. Ahead was the Jordan River—wide, daunting and impossible to cross without God’s help. Before Joshua ever gave an order or formed a plan, the Lord spoke words that steadied his heart: “Be strong and courageous … for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).

That assurance was not only for Joshua. It was for a people about to move forward together.

As The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda, I believe we are standing at a similar point in our journey.

In 2021, this territory adopted its first strategic plan, setting before us a clear vision for 2030: “We are an innovative partner, mobilized to share hope wherever there is hardship, building communities that are just and know the love of Jesus.” Over the past five years, that vision has guided us well. It has helped us make necessary decisions, address important realities and prepare ourselves for the future God is shaping.

Those early years required focus and discipline. We mobilized as an Army. We strengthened systems, clarified governance and sharpened our mission focus. That work was essential. Like Israel’s time of preparation before crossing into the Promised Land, it positioned us for what comes next.

Now, halfway through this 10-year journey, we pause—not to linger, but to listen, reflect and realign. This refreshed territorial strategic plan is not a new direction so much as a renewed commitment to the one God has already given us. We continue to build on the same four pillars that have guided our work: Strengthen Spiritual Health, Design for People, Forge Innovative Partnerships and Optimize Mission Impact.

What brings renewed clarity to this next season is our theme: Forward Together—Christ-centred, Others-focused.

Those words describe not only where we are going, but how we are called to travel. We move forward not as individuals pulling in different directions, but as one Army. And we do so anchored in Christ, with our attention firmly fixed on others.

From its earliest days, The Salvation Army has understood that our calling cannot be divided. We are called to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in his name. These two expressions of mission belong together. One reflects the other, and both reveal God’s love.

When we share the gospel, we offer hope, forgiveness and new life. When we serve those who are suffering, we offer compassion, dignity and healing. Each speaks to the whole person—body, mind and soul. To lose hold of either is to risk drifting from the very reason God raised up this movement.

That is why balance matters. As our ministries grow and adapt, we must ensure that everything we do remains Christ-centred and Others-focused. This refreshed strategy calls us to deepen spiritual life and discipleship, strengthen leadership, support and equip our people, and align our resources so that they serve the mission faithfully and effectively.

At the heart of this work are our corps and social ministry units. These are sacred places—where faith is lived out, relationships are formed and hope is offered day by day. In a time of fewer officers, changing communities and increasing complexity of need, we must invest wisely and care deeply for those who serve. We are committed to equipping officers, employees and lay leaders to lead with confidence, faith and resilience, and to strengthening partnerships that help us extend our reach.

We do this mindful that we are part of a global Army. In 2024, General Lyndon Buckingham introduced Compass, our international strategic framework, emphasizing people, mission and legacy. Our faithfulness contributes to a worldwide ministry.

I am especially grateful that this refreshed strategy has been shaped by many voices. Officers, employees, advisors, volunteers, Indigenous partners, French-speaking communities and young people have all been heard. This plan reflects the lived experience of the territory—and now it calls for our shared commitment.

Friends, the river still lies ahead. But the promise remains sure. The same God who spoke to Joshua speaks to us today: Be strong and courageous. I am with you.

May we step forward together—Christ-centred, Others-focused—trusting the Lord to lead us into all that lies ahead.

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