I found myself getting a little emotional this evening during the group debrief as I heard amazing stories from each team after their first day on the job. I think what struck me was the immediate impact that a new group was making and their adaptability to a very challenging situation, working alongside people they have only just met. The team spirit after one day was quite extraordinary, the creative thinking and ingenuity was impressive, the patience and grace demonstrated when things didn't quite go to plan appreciated, the genuine concern and response to human suffering moving!
I love working with teams and seeing them accomplish life changing results. These last few weeks have been a rare privilege to see this manifested in the most exaggerated of circumstances. From Pete and Jenny out in the streets, to Dale and Wendy at Linwood, to the leadership of Daryl and David, and the support of Vicky and Andrea; I have been deeply blessed to work alongside of some of the most amazing people I have ever met!! We have known each other and worked together for a couple of weeks but have accomplished things that take some teams years to achieve.
The NZ Territorial leadership should be very proud of what their people have accomplished and the leadership and ministry they have provided to the people of Christchurch. We have been reminded often of the amazing reputation The Salvation Army has earned during this disaster. I can't help but to think how this will elevate the mission of The Salvation Army in NZ for years to come. Although disaster relief is not evangelical in the moment, it provides a significant springboard for the gospel as people have come face to face with the love of Christ through His faithful servants during their time of need.
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