This photo essay offers a glimpse into the transformative work of The Salvation Army across the West African nations of Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea.

Josh Draheim is the community partnerships co-ordinator for The Salvation Army in Chilliwack, B.C., where he was part of a team that developed “Plant a Row For Us,” a gardening program that has brought in more than 18,144 kilograms of produce for the Army’s community food bank since last June. 

From vibrant urban hubs to the remotest reaches of the globe, join us in exploring the significant influence your contributions have had in fostering positive transformation around the world.

Love New Canadians, a ministry created by Rick and Patti Love from Calgary, has partnered with The Salvation Army to deliver a program that will help equip ministry units to embrace the growing communities of new Canadians around them.

"I want Salvationists all around the world to be encouraged by the truth that the God we worship, the God we love, is a faithful God," writes General Lyndon Buckingham. "His mercies are new every morning."

With all the other things that happen at this time of the year, may we focus on the reality of who Jesus is: the Son of God. 

The tradition of giving gifts at Christmas is symbolic of the gold, frankincense and myrrh the Wise Men gave to Jesus, as well as a reminder that Jesus was God’s gift to us. Each Christmas, The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda shares this gift of hope in communities across the territory.

I have come to understand, through God’s living Word and example, the importance of serving, helping and being available to others.

 “ ‘This isn’t the life I have for you. I have much bigger things in mind. You just need to follow me.’ ”

May the love of Christ shine brightly through us, leading others to the manger where they, too, can find the Saviour of the world.