As part of the INSPIRE Conference and Congress, The Salvation Army has created a unique coin to commemorate the event. The coin was given to those attending the INSPIRE Gala Awards dinner on Thursday, June 29.

The idea was first presented in the planning stages of INSPIRE by Lt-Colonel John Murray, territorial secretary for communications, to create a physical token to remind people of The Salvation Army’s history, mission and ministry, and celebrate the Army’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We value and appreciate our officers, staff and volunteers who went above and beyond in service to Canadians and Bermudians during the pandemic,” says Lt-Colonel Murray. “This coin is a permanent memento of thanks and recognition of a significant time in our history when we collectively responded to the needs of those whom we are called to serve.”

Incorporating The Salvation Army’s colours of yellow, red and blue, the design of the coin features the shield on one side and the INSPIRE 2023 logo on the other, complete with a Canadian maple leaf and the longtail bird of Bermuda. The design is meant to represent the Canada and Bermuda Territory and the diverse participants at INSPIRE. 

“It’s not often we all come together from the territory to celebrate the work of the Army more broadly,” says Glenn van Gulik, divisional secretary for public relations, Ontario Division, noting that INSPIRE is a watershed moment for The Salvation Army in Canada and Bermuda, and a benchmark in its history as the territory comes together after years of separation caused by the pandemic.

“There’s an element of intentionality around this coin and so many other aspects of INSPIRE,” van Gulik continues. “It is a reminder of the significance that we each carry. Like us, this coin is a small part of something larger, and that is what motivates, encourages and inspires us into the next day.”