Tonga Mission

It does not seem like 5 years since Major Donald Walker lead a team of workers to see the fulfillment of his vision for a place of worship at Kolovai. On learning of Donald's passing away (Promotion to Glory) last night my mind turned quickly to this mission and the privilege that was mine in being a part of the project. Donald had a vision and used his skills to bring that vision to reality his planning and skills made a very complex task do-able and a joy to be a part of. Donald will be missed as a special friend of both Gail and myself. As I consider what impact Donald has had on our lives I also see that multiplied many many times over all over New Zealand and in Tonga. Dorothy and all of Donald's family can be rightly proud of the legacy that he leaves.

The Salvation Army is working with the people of Tonga and have opened an appeal for funds. Our good friend Sila is working with the government of Tonga to see how we can help.

Support our Pacific Emergency Fund The Salvation Army has today launched the Pacific Emergency Fund as an urgent fundraising appeal to assist those people and communities affected by Cyclone Gita.

Our thoughts are with all our friends in Tonga tonight. Major Donald and I spoke briefly and our thoughts have been with Tonga throughout the day. You are in our prayers and thoughts tonight.

Yesterday, being the last Sunday of the month, we had our monthly "Dash for Cash" collection at Hamilton City. All money collected is sent to Tonga to support their Foodbank. We've seen first-hand just how much this monthly contribution means to the Tongan people.

We all want to say a huge THANK YOU to those who worked so hard to make this trip happen especially to Gary Bottomley for keeping us fed and watered so well, you were amazing!

Our last day today started with a chance to talk as a team about highlights and what we will take away from our trip. Then we went to look at Talasiu and Fua'amotu Corps. Thanks to the people of the Tongan Region for an amazing time, I don't think any of us will forget it. We received so much more from you than we could ever give.

Day 5 - during the morning meeting the General enrolled 30 senior soldiers, a 25% increase in the region. Then during the evening meeting he enrolled 30 junior soldiers. We had some free time this afternoon so we went to Vakaloa Beach which was beautiful. It has been a an awesome weekend and a privilege to be part of the celebration

Day 4 started with a March through Nukualofa from the house where The Salvation Army began in Tonga. Then there was a Welcome Meeting. In the evening was the very special Celebration Meeting with every corps presenting items. This was also a fundraising event and just over 2,400 pa'anga was raised! We all feel very privileged to be involved in this celebration. Tonga is an amazing place!

day 3 some of our band talking with some of the Police Band players that we practiced with the previous day. So much fun.

Day 3. Another school visit, meeting the general, visit to blowholes and party time in Nuku'alofa at night. Awesome day!