Mozambique stretches along the south-eastern coast of Africa, with palm tree-lined beaches for those seeking respite, and clear water beckoning the adventurous spirit to swim with whale sharks and manta rays. The most devout of foodies will find delicious cuisine, influenced by hundreds of years of visitors—from Arab merchants to the colonial powers that established outposts on these shores.

But this isn’t a tourism article—Mozambique also harbours a dark side. Decades of conflict have led to the death of hundreds of thousands of people and displaced millions more. Natural disasters, such as cyclones, drought and severe flooding, seem to strike regularly. The HIV epidemic threatens to overwhelm the health-care system. Combined, these challenges have left many people vulnerable and in need of assistance.

Through it all, The Salvation Army in Mozambique has remained true to its purpose: to bring hope, caring and support to those who need it most. As it’s one of the Canada and Bermuda Territory’s newest Partners in Mission, a team from the world missions department visited Mozambique last year to see the work of The Salvation Army first-hand. We were welcomed into a vibrant community where Salvationists are steadfast in worship and service.

Here are some of my most cherished images from this journey—ones that speak to me of the spirit, strength and resilience of the people, who have continued to hope when there has been so much reason to feel lost or forgotten.

At Bagamoio Corps in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, the Sunday morning service starts with marching in the Salvation Army flag.

From the corps and territorial band, to timbrels, songsters and dramatic groups, there’s a way for everyone in the corps to be involved.

With strong and committed youth, the future is bright for The Salvation Army in Mozambique.

Quality education is one of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. In Mozambique, education remains severely underfunded, with the illiteracy rate at more than 60 per cent. The Salvation Army supports several schools in Mozambique to ensure that children have access to lifelong opportunity.

It’s one thing to have buildings and safe places for children to come and learn; it’s another to have skilled teachers to guide them.

Dedicated staff prepare healthy and nutritious meals for the children at Salvation Army schools, to improve concentration and focus when learning.

In February 2017, cyclone Dineo struck the southern coast of Mozambique, bringing torrential rains and strong winds to the Maxixe and Inhambane area. The Salvation Army dispatched emergency aid, helping 100 families affected by the storm. Lt-Col Brenda Murray, director of world missions, speaks with a woman sitting among the ruins of her home.

The strong winds, flying debris and toppled trees created havoc—an estimated 20,000 homes were destroyed. This family lost everything. Both parents are blind. With limited opportunity for work, they struggled to rebuild. They were given assistance in building a new and stronger home.

This woman was in her home when a large tree collapsed on it. She was able to crawl out from underneath it, unscathed, when help arrived. The Salvation Army provided her with materials so she could repair her home. Today, she receives regular visits from the local corps.

The Salvation Army is growing in the Inhambane and Tofo Beach area. The corps officer in Tofo walks to work every day. His presence in the community is a reminder of the help and hope The Salvation Army brings in a time of need.