I am from Newfoundland and Labrador, where I always lived in small communities. Yet there was always a part of me that wondered about the world beyond my small province. I was fascinated by different cultures and curious about the global church. As a child, I would even write to Canadian Salvation Army officers serving overseas, eager to know more about their ministry and experiences.

Today, in my role with the international development department, I have the privilege of travelling to other Salvation Army territories, an opportunity I would have treasured many years ago. Every time I travel, I am inspired by the many expressions of The Salvation Army. Whether through joyful worship, faithful service to communities or creative approaches to ministry, I am reminded that, although our cultures may differ, we are united in our mission to share the love of Christ.

As I reflected on my own long-held desire to experience the international Salvation Army, I began to wonder how many other Salvationists across the territory shared that same dream. How many others wanted to learn more about our global Army, but had never had the opportunity? 

Although there have been many divisional short-term mission trips over the years, that question led to the creation of our first territorial mission trip. We invited Salvationists from across Canada and Bermuda to apply, hoping not only to provide them with a life-changing experience, but also to equip them to become advocates for international ministry when they returned home. We envisioned participants sharing their stories in their corps, workplaces and communities, encouraging others to engage with initiatives such as the Self-Denial Appeal, and helping people learn more about the challenges many territories face, including access to health care, clean water and sanitation.

On May 17, 2026, the first territorial short-term mission team, comprised of individuals representing every division, arrived in Maputo, Mozambique. We were greeted by officers and cadets whose joyful singing immediately made us feel welcome. Despite the long journey, their enthusiasm energized us, and we looked forward to all that God had in store over the next 10 days.

The main purpose of our trip to Mozambique was to repair four officers’ quarters, but this wasn’t something that our team was going to do by themselves—it would be a partnership between our territory and Mozambique. Over the next few days, we sanded, primed and painted walls, working side-by-side with local officers and Salvationists. As we worked, we shared stories, laughter and fellowship, discovering that even language barriers cannot prevent God’s people from building meaningful relationships.

Over the weekend, we stepped away from the renovation project to participate in a divisional youth weekend attended by more than 100 young people and leaders. One team member, Trevor, looked forward to worshipping with fellow Salvationists from another culture. At the beginning of the trip, he shared, “As Salvationists, we are one family of believers, and I’m excited to worship with Salvationists from another culture and learn from them.”

At the end of our 10 days, we had certainly learned a lot. Before leaving Mozambique, Frank reflected, “I learned to appreciate living in the moment. We often rush through life and forget to enjoy the blessings God has given us. This experience has given me a much deeper appreciation for what we have and reminded me to be thankful for each moment God provides.” 

I believe every member of the team would say that we returned home having grown spiritually and personally. Although language differences sometimes challenged us, we found creative ways to communicate, laugh and encourage one another. We formed lasting friendships, created memories we will always cherish and, most importantly, witnessed God at work in every aspect of the journey.

Although our time in Mozambique has ended, the impact of this experience continues. The people we met, the relationships we formed and the lessons we learned will remain with us for years to come. My prayer is that these experiences will also inspire others throughout our territory. As we share our stories, I hope more Salvationists will gain a greater understanding of the international Salvation Army, discover new opportunities to partner with fellow believers around the world and be encouraged by the many ways God is transforming lives through our shared ministry.

Our first territorial short-term mission trip was a tremendous blessing, but it was never meant to be a one-time opportunity. We pray this is only the beginning. Our vision is to make these mission trips available every year, connecting Salvationists across territories to serve, learn, worship and grow together. As we strengthen these relationships, we also strengthen our understanding that, wherever we serve, we are one Army, united in our calling to share the hope of Jesus Christ with the world.

Want to be part of this exciting opportunity? Apply online to join the 2027 team. 

Location: Bahamas, Caribbean Territory
Dates: April 22–May 1, 2027 

Major Heather Matondo is the assistant director of the international development department.