New Youth and Young Adults Secretary for Western Australia
Claire Castley recently spoke to Salvos Online journalist ANTHONY CASTLE about her new role, where she sees God at work and why she has chosen to come alongside young people
How long have you been in the role? What's your background with youth ministry and The Salvation Army?
As an officer’s kid, I’ve been a part of The Salvation Army my whole life. I love our movement. I love how we care for people one life at a time with the love of Jesus. I love how we live, love, and fight for justice and how we aim to build healthy communities. I love that we are respected by Australians, and they see us as people who are ready to serve and love our community.
Fourteen years ago, my parents were appointed as youth and children’s secretaries in South Australia. So, as you do when your parents are involved in ministry, I grew up going to camps, events and programs and saw young lives transformed by the love of Jesus. I believe this is where I fell in love with youth ministry. So, when the opportunity came to be the Youth and Young Adults Secretary based in WA, I knew this was where God was leading me.
What exciting things are happening in youth ministry in WA right now? Where do you see God at work?
Western Australia is a state full of opportunity! Under the leadership of Aux-Lieutenant Steven Freind, corps have been encouraged to seek first God’s kingdom and be a part of what God is doing in the lives of young people in WA. As I now step into this role, I want to continue to build momentum for youth ministry in WA. I want to partner with corps to develop leaders, provide resources and plan and organise events, like WA Youth Camp, where young people can have an encounter with God.
Although I have only been in WA for a short period of time, I already see God so evidently at work in our state. I see God motivating our leaders to fight for young people. I see leaders who are committed to meeting young people where they’re at. I see God at work in youth groups that are full of young people who know that they belong in the Kingdom of God. I see God at work in leaders who are committed to developing and growing as followers of Jesus. I see God at work through our national vision of seeing more leaders, more youth ministries, and more young people.
Why do you feel that youth ministry is important? Why have you chosen to come alongside young people?
I believe that youth ministry is the vessel by which God can change the hearts and minds of generations. When we pray for young people, encourage them and disciple them in their relationship with Jesus, God changes their lives. Parents notice a change in their teenagers and become curious about what happens at church. Schools benefit from young people who seek to love and care for others, and communities are transformed by people who are committed to following Jesus and seeking his will for their lives.
I have chosen to come alongside young people because of the many mentors, supporters and encouragers who have come alongside me for many years. I thank God for the people in my life who have led me to Jesus, and I am committed to doing the same for others.
