The Salvation Army’s Transformational Presence Provides Hope in Jamaica

With passion in their hearts and tools in their hands, mission partners from The Salvation Army in Ontario embarked on a journey to transform lives and uplift communities.

The 23 helping hands returned to Kingston, Jamaica in February to finish construction projects started in 2023 at The Salvation Army Caribbean Territory’s Evangeline Residence for Women and the School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

The opportunity to help with the mission was life-changing for Sandra Randall, executive director of the Bethany Hope Centre, a young parent and family resource service in Ottawa.

“Mission Jamaica 2024 was an incredibly enriching experience that touched me on every level – spiritually, emotionally, and physically,” says Sandra. “The strength of prayer carried me through each day, uplifting my spirit as I sought guidance to navigate the challenges. I found gratitude in every moment, thanking God for His unwavering support. At the end of the day, I rejoiced in the sense of accomplishment and personal growth.”

Mission partner Terry Harney returned to Jamaica after taking a hiatus for a few years during the pandemic.

“It was a blessing to be back. I was challenged and encouraged once again to use the gifts that God has given me to serve others,” Terry says. “It also taught me to take the time to listen more and appreciate those around you who come with their own unique experiences.”

During two weeks of hard work and only one day off, the projects kept the crew busy, completing 260 person days of labour. The long list of improvements included fixing roofs, upgrading plumbing and electrical systems, painting walls and fences, replacing windows, and clearing out overgrown landscaping.

These life-altering mission trips from The Salvation Army started more than 30 years ago through the support of Shirley and Bob McArthur, who attended Etobicoke Temple in Toronto.

“The McArthurs are the essence of generosity, providing hope and transforming lives with their unwavering commitment to mission trips. Their dedication lives on in the hearts of those touched by the work of The Salvation Army,” says Major Chris Rideout, Ontario divisional secretary for mission resources.

Each mission trip offers a unique opportunity for participants to broaden their perspectives, deepen their life connections and solidify their faith relationship.

“I’m of the mind that every believer needs to do a short-term mission trip. It’s not about what you bring, its about what you learn on the journey and what we learn on a mission trip and take back home gives us a sense of the greater community and who we are in the global church,” said Major Rideout. “I feel a deep sense of accomplishment that I’ve done something greater than myself. We work for 10 hours a day in 31-degree heat, but there’s a rewarding feeling when looking at what we did in two weeks. The smiles and joy we bring to peoples’ faces is well worth the hard work.”

Major Rideout says one goal is to get new mission partners to join every year, creating a sense of responsibility and understanding of other communities and cultures that exist within The Salvation Army and outside of a person’s known or lived experiences.

“There are opportunities for a local church in Ontario to partner with a local church in the Caribbean to help in completing essential projects, and increasing those innovative partnerships and opportunities can get people more committed to the church on a global level,” Major Rideout explains.

A mission trip to the Caribbean will run again in 2025.

To support The Salvation Army’s life changing programs and services, call 1-800 SAL-ARMY or visit www.salvationarmy.ca.