By Pam Kiriakidis
Captain Michael Nally joined the Salvation Army to fix computer problems, but decided to shut down his computer and take action by committing to ministerial training.
Nine years later, Mr Nally has resigned as a Salvation Army Corps Officer in Broadford, fulfilling his mission to serve others through the lens of Christianity.
“We had a vision to transform the community, to transform lives to give hope [and] share the love,” he said.
On September 25, Mr. Nally shared a final farewell with other longtime members, participating in a final service and meal.
“It was a beautiful time to reflect on the work that has been happening for the community through the Salvation Army, at least in my time over the past nine years,” Mr Nally said.
Regional officer Kelly Walker, who worked alongside Mr Nally this year, said the Sunday service was an opportunity for members to share their thoughts with those involved in the organization.
“There was a tremendous amount of effort to say goodbye to them and to be able to thank them for all that he was able to do,” Ms Kelly said.
Mr Nally described his service to the community in three parts – material aid, worship and through a thrift shop where locals can recycle their goods.
He said seeing people receive a ray of hope after visiting the Salvation Army was a highlight because their experiences aligned with his own intention to transform people’s lives.
“I used to do the Doorways program — everything from interviews to commissioning to managing volunteers,” he said.
“I’ve definitely seen people come through our doors in a crisis and come away with a bit more hope, I think that’s probably the best.
“Seeing people who weren’t really aware of the kind of support we provided and then being like ‘wow, we actually have something to do from here’.”
Times were tough, but Mr. Nally managed to serve his community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He said it was a challenge to provide services between closures, however, through a group effort, Mr Nally carried out his mission to encourage others to bond.
“It was actually busier, but the way we had to handle it was different. It was all contactless deliveries, various help materials, and lots of phone calls, lots of zoom meetings,” did he declare.
“Even though it was social distancing, we were going to play a part in making sure people stayed connected and no one was left behind.”
Although Ms Kelly hasn’t been able to watch Captain Nally in action during the pandemic, she has seen enough this year to understand his passion for the community.
“We’ve seen him continue to stand up for the little guy, just wanting to see the Broadford community thrive and do really well. He has a real heart for the community; he loves living in Broadford,” she said.
“He’s an easy-going guy and he continues to really support those who don’t always feel like they’re supported.”
Ms Kelly said The Salvation Army’s future in Broadford was yet to be confirmed, but the organization wanted to maintain a presence in Mitchell Shire.
“We’re looking at how things can work in a new way for the whole state for every community represented in this space,” she said.
“It means there will be a bigger picture than the Broadford community. The Broadford community is going to be included in this, but it’s not just the community, it’s across the Mitchell Shire.
