Johannesburg is a large urban metropolis not unlike many large North America cities. There is traffic congestion with lots of buses and taxis fighting for space on the roadways and pedestrians who bob and weave their way across busy city streets. According to statistics, the metropolitan population is greater than seven million.

Founded roughly 120 years ago by an Australian gold prospector and today it is the financial and cultural center of the country. However, with big diverse cities, come big diverse problems, and that’s where the Salvation Army does its best work.

The Ethembeni Children’s Home, is located in a high crime area of Johannesburg, just east of the downtown core. Established in 1993 in response to the baby HIV/AIDS crisis, today the home handles mostly abandoned babies. The ministry is immediately impactful and it tugs at my heart strings as we tour the home.

The babies are brilliantly cared for and loved. Most are adopted by age three to international adoptive parents. Only two babies out of 61 currently in residence are HIV positive however the sad reality is that many mother’s continue to abandon their babies for a myriad of reasons.

We continue on our journey visiting two other children’s homes; The Salvation Army Carl Sithole Children’s Center, a facility that cares for 90 abused and or abandoned children ages 2-19 as well as the TSA Strathyre’s Girl’s Home, a residence that provides care for 60 girls between the ages of 3-18 in the suburb of Kensington.

Meeting the children and listening to their stories is heartbreaking. I’m hopeful that by SAVN.TV highlighting these ministries, TSA will be able to help even more kids escape the grim reality of abuse, neglect, poverty and life on the streets.

The Officers and staff of all the homes we visited today have difficult but important jobs. They all have one significant characteristic in common, and that is, they all have hearts of compassion.

Nelson Mandela once said, ‘there can be no keener revelation of a nation’s soul, than the way in which it treats its children.’ Interesting words to think about at the end of a very powerful day.

Major John Murray, Communications and Literary Secretary

As I write this update, we’re screaming across the clear blue South African sky at 35,000 feet en route to Johannesburg. We’re looking forward to South Africa, however I’m still reflecting on the past two weeks and all that we accomplished and witnessed.

In my opening post I wrote about the great Africa plains where animals roam, so I thought it would be appropriate to come full circle with this last blog post from Zimbabwe and share something of the amazing experience the team had when we visited a place called Antelope Park.

Antelope Park is located 21 kms west of Gweru, just off the main road to Bulawayo. Driving west and at the appointed sign, we turned right and drove for 6 kms down a dusty, bumpy, and pot-holed road. Like a mirage in the middle of the desert, we came upon Antelope park, home to myriad African animals but best known for its international ‘Lion Rehabilitation and Release into the Wild Program.’

It was an oasis. We exited our vehicle only to see a crowd looking towards the waters edge. There, to our amazement, were four gigantic elephants, quietly eating and drinking as a couple dozen tourists looked on. That was the start of our few hours at Antelope Park.

Following a delightful lunch and the best Americano coffee I’ve had since leaving London, we climbed aboard our land rover, just like in the movies, and set out on our African safari adventure.

Our guide, Carlos was excellent. He was knowledgeable and engaging and certainly knew where to look for the animals, no small feat in ‘3000 acres of open savannah grassland.’ We crashed and banged our way along the rough dirt pathways and even ventured into the tall grass on several occasions looking for animals. We were successful!

We saw a giraffe gently grazing on tree leaves several meters above the ground. The young male giraffe was happy to stand and pose for photos.

A few minutes later, we came along a herd of wildebeest and according to our guide they are the ‘dumbest creature’ in the African animal kingdom.

We also saw lions, zebra, antelope and scores of vultures. It was an afternoon we will never forget. The team was thankful for a few hours of relaxation and for the majestic experience that was ours.

Now, back to the flight.  We’re excited about the next few days of filming in South Africa. A quick glance out my window and I see that the topography is very different in South Africa to that of Zimbabwe; similarly, our experiences in Johannesburg with be unique and special.   I’ll keep you posted.

Thanks again for reading.

Blessings!

Major John Murray, Communications and Literary Secretary

It was a glorious Easter morning here in Gweru with people greeting each other with ‘hallelujah, He is alive’ – while others walked to church dressed in their Easter finery. There was a sense of joy and excitement in the air.

The Easter Sunday service was full of praise and worship with uplifting band and songster selections, timbrel routines, lots of vibrant singing and testimonies.

(click link below to see the timbrels video)

https://www.facebook.com/john.murray.7393264?fref=ts

Indeed, more than 20 soldiers lined up behind two microphones on the platform to share what God is doing in their lives. Some spoke, others sang and some even had everyone laughing, all in all, it was very moving.

The band played a beautiful selection; in the middle of the piece the principal trombone stood and played a familiar melody and I immediately thought of my maternal grandfather, Brigadier John Zarfas, because I always remember him singing, ‘This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long.’ He was a powerful speaker and Easter was his season too.

The Territorial Songsters, resplendent in their burgundy tunics sang ‘amen, amen, hallelujah’ as they made their way to the platform. From where I was seated, I could see the brigade walking up the stairs. However, when they were in place on the platform, they kept singing for a few minutes because they were waiting for a member of the brigade to take his place.

The gentleman in question appeared to have suffered a stroke and his mobility was limited, but a fellow songster helped him negotiate each stair, one-by-one, until he was on the platform and in his place, and once there, the brigade presented their selection. That was truly a compassionate, kind moment in a very full and exuberant Easter Sunday morning service.

The General spoke from the heart and he spoke powerfully. He reminded his listeners that ‘we are a resurrection people’ and that ‘there is power in the blood of Jesus.’ He also challenged his fellow Salvationists‘ to make a difference in this world through prayer and service.’

At his invitation, hundreds of people came forward. They knelt at the mercy seat, in the aisles, and on the platform – every empty space was taken up with people praying. Some stood to pray while others knelt, some remained seated. There was a low rumble of sound in the auditorium as people lifted up their praise and petitions to God on this Easter Sunday morning.

The congress was simply an unforgettable experience and there are many highlights. No doubt, I will think back to this Easter weekend in the year’s ahead and reflect on all that we witnessed. I believe we are richer for this experience and I am grateful for having had the opportunity.

Major John Murray, IHQ Communications and Literary Secretary,

Easter Saturday 2014 is now ‘in the books’ but it was a day to remember. The sky was a brilliant blue and the sun was strong which made for a picture perfect day.

To start, thousands of women packed the auditorium to share in worship and listen to the ministry of Commissioner Silvia Cox. It truly was a standing room only crowd.

Junior Soldiers sang and danced with joy and energy as they welcomed The General to their meeting.

The General’s personal interest in young people was evident and the kids responded with appreciation.

Another walk through the TSA Tent City really made me count my blessings.

For many here, life is hard. It’s difficult, and living in a tent, with no electricity or running water and cooking over an open wood fire so you can attend congress is nothing short of inspiring.

An impressive sight was the afternoon March Past where the The General and Commissioner Silvia Cox saluted their Officers and Soldiers as they marched by in their formations.

An estimated 10,000 people participated in the march. It could be more, who knows? Regardless, Salvationists young and old marched representing their divisions or high school, or band or songster brigade. They marched past their International Leaders all the while proudly saluting. The onslaught of marchers was continuous for an hour or more. There appeared to be no end insight for the longest time.

The last official marchers to salute The General was the SAVN.TV crew which included me, then The General proceeded to the Tent City where he visited with campers and shared a few minutes with his fellow Salvationists in this unique setting. It was a special time.

Today was interesting, exciting and inspiring. It was a privilege to share in the March Past and it was a great reminder of the heritage that we share as Salvationists. The campers in the Tent City have left an indelible impression on me, as their commitment and dedication is extraordinary.

Happy Easter.

Major John Murray, IHQ Communications and Literary Secretary

In the light of day, The Salvation Army tent city at the congress venue is an impressive sight. There are large party tents, green canvas military tents and circus style tents that dot the campus. There are several small tents that sleep 2-6 people and they represent a rainbow of color. While the tents vary in size and color, they signify comfort and community.

The tent city is well organised with vendors and small cafés lining the main pathway. However, as I circle the encampment I see that most groups have setup campfires on the outer perimeter, where several women cook over an open wood fire for the members of their corps. The cooks have an important and never-ending ministry this weekend!

Everywhere I walk I am greeted by fellow Salvationists dressed in their smart tan colored uniforms and crisp white shirts. Many of the women choose to wear colorful Salvation Army wraps representing various divisions across the Territory.

The Good Friday services have a wonderful sense of spirit and occasion. The people are engaged in worship before the opening song. The singing is full with rich, deep harmonies and one cannot resist but to sit and drink in the musical offerings of praise.

At times African dancing erupts. The drummers keep the beat and a Capella singing fills the hall, in comparison the noise from the beans in the ‘hoshos’ echo throughout the auditorium in rhythmic symmetry. (Click the link below to see dancing)

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10151966285701612&set=vb.695616611&type=2&theater

This morning General Andre Cox said, ‘I believe that God will bless us as we meet here. God is blessing us, and I am grateful for this unforgettable Good Friday experience.

Remember, ‘it’s Friday, but Sunday’s coming.’

Major John Murray, IHQ Communications and Literary Secretary

 

Well, it was an interesting, but mixed up kind of day. A trip to Barclay’s bank, two stops at Territorial Headquarters and a quick run through one of the local Harare markets for trinkets, treasures and souvenirs and then we set out on our 270 km drive to Gweru.
We left Harare at 11:00 a.m. and arrived in Gweru at 4:30 p.m. passing many vehicles bound for the congress. Needless to say, it was a long, slow drive with several stops along the way but we made it.

The congress facility is located about 7 kms outside of Gweru. The main building is huge with the capacity to seat thousands and that is a good thing as there are Salvationists, young and old, everywhere!

The adjacent property is a virtual Salvation Army tent city with corps from across Zimbabwe setting up campsites for the weekend. It’s about worship, fellowship and being together. The sense of community is clearly very strong in the African culture.

There is an air of excitement as people anxiously await the arrival of the International Leaders following a March of Witness and grand welcome by local government officials. The Easter Congress is upon us and people are ready and eager to worship.

Finally, as I write this blog tonight I appreciate the sense of family and community around me but I am also sensitive to the fact that this is the first Easter weekend in more than 20 years that I will not be with Brenda, Zack, Liam, Kieran and Nathan. It’s a bittersweet experience as we will celebrate Easter on three different continents. 

I’ll close for now. Good Friday awaits, but remember, ‘Sunday is coming.’

Happy Easter and thanks for reading.

Major John Murray, IHQ Communications and Literary Secretary

I know I’ve only been here for 9 days, and I’ve certainly not traveled the entire country, but I am going to make an assessment based on my encounters and experiences with the locals to date, and that is, Zimbabweans are happy, joyful people and their joyful happy spirit is contagious.

Our team has been blessed to travel to Harare and Victoria Falls and the communities of Tinde, Chinoyi, Muphuirnga, Mvurwi and Chiweshe and without exception our encounters have been inspiring and unique, engaging and memorable.

We’ve met Salvationists along our journey in every community. Shopkeepers, hotel workers, Air Zimbabwe employees and grocery store clerks – all have introduced themselves as being Salvationists – indeed, Soldiers and all have one thing in common – they were happy and joyful.

The Zimbabweans joyful spirit and zest for life is also evident in worship. Today, I had the privilege of sharing in the Cadets spiritual day at General William Booth College in Harare and the guests were The General and Commissioner Silvia Cox. The Call to Worship was Psalm 100 and the words of the scripture came alive as all present entered into worship with hearts of ‘thanksgiving and praise’ all the while lifting ‘joyful songs’ to the Lord.  It was an inspiring experience.

(click link below to see and hear joyful singing.)

African Joy

Reflecting on worship today, I can only imagine what the Easter congress is going to be like in Gweru as more than 10,000 Salvationists gather to praise and worship the Lord in true Zimbabwean style. I’ll keep you posted throughout the weekend.

Thanks again for reading and remember, be joyful and Happy Easter!

Major John Murray, IHQ Communications and Literary Secretary

Traveling is always an adventure. It doesn’t matter where you’re going or what country you are in, the unplanned and unexpected is always just around the corner; and so our morning began.

Nothing that challenging, just low tire pressure – i.e. almost flat, and a need petrol, ‘now’, kind of start to the day. Nice. Good thing everyone on our team has a great sense of humor and simply ‘rolls with the punches.’ It’s all part of the adventure.

Shortly after diverting disaster, we set off for Howard High School and Hospital – significant institutions in The Salvation Army’s Zimbabwean history.  Located 80 kms north of the capital city, Harare, in the Chiweshe district of Zimbabwe, The Salvation Army compounds are important parts of the local community.

The 90 minute drive afforded us opportunity to see the Zimbabwean First Lady’s orphanage, which was built as a gift from the Chinese government. As the area is also host to citrus groves we had a colorful array of orange and yellow as we sped along the motorway.

Arriving at Howard High School was a delight as we were greeted by two single file columns of timbrelists and instrumentalists lined up on either side of the roadway as an honor guard. The groups were not there for us of course – but awaiting the arrival of The Army’s International Leaders who were scheduled to arrive momentarily.

The crowd that turned out to meet The General and Commissioner Silvia Cox was outstanding. The General seemed pleased to return to Howard Hospital, a place where he very much feels at home. It has been a familiar surrounding since the mid-1950’s.
 
Officers, soldiers, Salvationists and friends moved from one location to another on the school property as the General dedicated three new buildings on the grounds. The General’s party and local officials also toured the new hospital site which is looking great and set to officially open in late Fall 2014.  

Today was very busy. The SAVN.TV crew interviewed several people and shot B-roll of the grounds for use in the documentary. The Salvation Army’s Howard ministries, is historic yet relevant only getting stronger. As General Cox said of Howard, ‘it is a beacon of light, hope, and healing.’

We concluded our day by visiting Thomas Mudyiwa, the Chisweshe Headman and his family on their farm.  ‘You kept your promise’ was his greeting, ‘’you came back to see me.’ What a welcome!  He remembered me visiting last August.  It was a joy to reconnect with Thomas and his family once again and to share in prayer in their barnyard before departing.

Finally, thanks to our good friend, Major Kyle Smith for all his efforts over the last few weeks. He left Zimbabwe bound for Los Angeles this afternoon. We’ll miss his energy and spirit on the team but we’ll forge ahead.

That’s all for now.  Thanks for again for reading.

Major John Murray, IHQ Communications and Literary Secretary

My day started with a quiet walk along the Zambezi River. The area is awash in lush, green foliage.  The swift moving water ‘was quiet’, almost welcoming, however, lurking beneath the surface are hundreds of crocodiles and hippos – a very dangerous environment and a unique reminder that things are not always as they appear on the surface.

 

A little further exploration and I saw a dozen or more warthogs grazing, and later in the morning I encountered several baboons running around in the open, more than I have seen in all my Zoo visits combined – and with fours sons I can say that I have visited my fair share of Zoo’s across North America over the past 23 years!

According to local legend, the explorer David Livingston described Victoria Falls, ‘as the most wonderful sight I have witnessed in Africa’ and I would concur. It’s no wonder that it is designated as one of the ‘seven natural wonders of the world’ – the views are breath taking.

As we traversed the Falls Walk, we were absolutely mesmerized by the power and fury of the white, rushing water. As our visit to Victoria Falls coincided with the end of the rainy season, this force of nature was at its best.

We stopped at various lookouts to take photos and to shoot B-roll all the while getting absolutely soaked.  At one point, Alex, one of the SAVN.TV crew, suggested that it was ‘raining up’ and he was absolutely right. We were reminded of the power of nature but also the beauty and complexity of creation.

Chris Tomlin, a Christian recording artist, penned a song that I think is appropriate at the end of this amazing day:

‘Lord of all creation, of water, earth and sky,
The heavens are Your tabernacle,
Glory to the Lord on High,

God of wonders beyond our galaxy, You are holy, holy,
The universe declares your majesty; You are holy, holy,
Lord of heaven and earth,’

Major John Murray, IHQ Communications and Literary Secretary,

This is not a Palm Sunday I’ll ever forget as we were greeted by a brilliant African sunrise, which set the tone for the day.

Our journey this Sunday took us from Harare to the world famous Victoria Falls – one of the ‘Seven Natural Wonders of the World.’ A short one hour flight on Air Zimbabwe in an older 737-200 model and we reached our destination.  The Air Zimbabwe service was very ‘old school’, a throw back to a different era in air travel. It was wonderful.

While we could see the spray from Victoria Falls shooting up into the sky on ‘final approach’, we no sooner touched down and we started the next leg of our journey to the Village of Tinde, located 220 kms west of Victoria Falls in a remote part of the Matebeleland Region of Zimbabwe. The Village is home to a Salvation Army outpost that was started 8 years ago and it was there that SAVN.TV filmed today.

Our bus driver Kenneth was a real champ, as he drove for 3.5 hours and endured a police road check where officials took his licence and inspected it prior to letting us continue on our way. The final 22 kms of the trip was on a dusty, bumpy, unpaved road. I think most motorists would have turned around – but not Kenneth and the SAVN.TV crew!  We arrived at the Outpost to a grand welcome of singing, dancing, drumming and timbrel playing – well worth the drive!

The corps officer, Captain No-Matter Renesu and his wife are circuit pastors. While they are the commanding officers of this special Village Outpost, they actually live 120 kms away thus their commute is significant – but clearly they are doing an important ministry. 

As I reflect on all that has taken place this week, I have been reminded that one of the great strengths of The Salvation Army is our cultural diversity. While the color of our uniforms vary and we often speak different languages, more things unite us than divide us because we worship and serve the same God – whether in London – Toronto – or Tinde, Africa. Also, I am grateful for the service and ministry of the SAVN.TV crew. Not only are they ‘pros’, but they are a very sensitive and talented group that has a knack for finding the ‘right story.’ Thanks guys, for all you’re doing!

Tomorrow we get to see Victoria Falls – which will be a highlight in a different kind of way. I’ll close for now. 

Palm Sunday, Africa 2014, wow – Hosanna to the King!

Major John Murray, IHQ Communications and Literary Secretary