The Salvation Army Commences Work in Samoa

Following consultation, General André Cox has approved the official recognition of Salvation Army work in the Independent State of Samoa

FOLLOWING consultation with the International Management Council, General André Cox has approved the official recognition of Salvation Army work in the Independent State of Samoa (formerly known as Western Samoa). The official start of work will be 1 August 2018, with inauguration meetings taking place during the first weekend of the month, 3-5 August.

In 1984, contact was first made with the Samoan authorities by the then-regional commander in Fiji. A further contact was made in 2001 and, following receipt of a letter from the Prime Minister of Samoa in 2017, it was felt that the time was now right to engage in moves to seek official registration for The Salvation Army, and to appoint officers to begin to develop plans for a ministry there.

In his correspondence from March 2017 the Prime Minister, Tuila’epa Sa’illele Malielegaoi, expressed a keen interest in having The Salvation Army begin work on the islands, citing drug and alcohol dependency as key issues he felt The Salvation Army could address. He wrote: ‘I like to think you were divinely guided ... to bring the good news of your work for Samoa.’

Plans were soon put in place to establish a corps (church) and an addiction treatment centre. Violence against women and children was another key area that was suggested as a focus for the Army’s ministry. Sunday meetings have been taking place since May 2018, and employees, engaged to be involved in the addictions programme, began work in June.

With legal registration now in place, along with an approved budget for the first three years, and officers appointed to lead the work – Lieut-Colonels Rod and Jenny Carey (regional officers), along with Major Miriama Simanu (planting officer) – the work will develop under the auspices of Salvation Army leadership in New Zealand. 

To reflect the new opening, the name of the territory has been changed to New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory.

Discover more

A group of the international Children and Young People Advisory group in front of the exhibition 'Transforming lives for 160 years'
International Headquarters

Salvation Army celebrates 160 years; anticipates powerful future

Transforming lives and communities since 1865 

Modern slavery and human trafficking

Spot the Signs

Driven by poverty, conflict, persecution – and the global demand for cheap goods, labour and sex – modern slavery and human trafficking are thriving worldwide. Yes, even in your own community.

Victims often can’t ask for help. They rely on others – on

Prayer

International Prayer Focus Calendar

Each week, Salvationists around the world unite in praying for the same territory or region of The Salvation Army. Prayer requests are shared by the territory/region to help us pray with precision and power for one another. 

Theology

Living by Faith Today

Reflections on the Soldiers' Covenant and what it means for our behaviour, lifestyle and relationships.

Theology

Doctrine for Today

Explore The Salvation Army's 11 Articles of Faith in greater depth with members of the International Doctrine Council.

Theology

Taking a Stand

Addressing the complex issues contained in The Salvation Army's International Positional Statements. The articles are written by various members of the International Moral and Social Issues Council and deliberately reflect, in some measure, a