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The Salvation Army / USA Central Territory

News and Views from the Midwest

development. “Programsare where our building’spotential and communi-ty need come together.”She continued,“Programs are the primeconnection point withpartners like the OmahaSymphony, NebraskaShakespeare, The LatinoCenter of the Midlands,Omaha Conservatory ofMusic, Boys Town, andThe Josh Collingsworth

Foundation.”Omaha’s Kroc Center now runs

the largest adult soccer league inthe area and just launched thelargest indoor youth league. Socceris poised for more growth thisspring when the weather warmsand the new lights on the outdoorfield are turned on. Healthy HomeProject, an Omaha Kroc Centeroriginal, helps families integratetime together, healthier eatinghabits and exercise into their busylives, while Camp Kroc, the sum-mer student enrichment program,has given hundreds of children asafe place to learn and play, as well

Gospel Arts Secretary William Himesemphasized to the 216 delegates thethree objectives of University 2020:get started, keep going, remain faith-ful. It was apparent the full scheduleof united and breakout sessions wasgeared for corps officers, worship,music and gospel arts leaders—pre-sent and future.

Special guests Majors Ian andIsobel Robinson, mission develop-ment secretaries for the Southern

California Division, rein-forced the focus withchallenging devotionalmessages in each unitedsession. Well-known fortheir songwriting through-out the Army world, sam-ples of their stirringmusic were featuredthroughout the weekend.

From Friday evening throughSaturday afternoon, 19 breakout ses-sions were offered in seven tracks:preaching/worship (Major PaulMoore, Peggy Thomas), drama (JoeCaddy, Marty Thomas, Bill BoothTheater Company), vocal (MeghanPierson, Kaela McDougall), instru-mental (Ben Kinzie, Peggy Thomas,Bill Himes, Zane Koehler, MartyThomas), keyboard (Brett Tolcher,Bill Himes) praise band (Eric Himes,Erica Johnson, Major John Aren) andmedia (David Andrews and visualcommunications staff). The begin-

The Radisson Star Plaza Hotelin Merrillville, Ind., was thevenue for University 2020,two days of practical instruc-

tion and useful resources designed toenhance the content and impact ofSunday worship. Drawing its name

from the terri-torial goal of“Live Music inWorship inEvery Corpsby 2020,” theevent wassponsored bythe territorialmusic andgospel artsdepartment.

Kicking offthe Fridayeveningkeynote,TerritorialMusic and

ning brass sessionwas enhanced withthe help of severalyoung players fromthe East Chicago,Ind., Corps whohelped Ben Kinzieand Bill Himes asthey demonstratedvarious teachingtechniques.

“The breakoutsessions seemed tobe very well

“We are all one body, we have the same Spirit, and we have all been called to the same glorious future.” Eph. 4:3,4 (NLT)

University 2020:motivated to serve

Volume 45, Number 3 March 2015

Continued on page 12

Continued on page 2

PhotosbyScottThomas

OmahaKroc celebratesfive years ofministry

2009, and opened fully in January2010, the center is on the excitingleading edge of Joan Kroc’s revolution-ary vision to offer exceptional opportu-nities that would change lives. Thecenter’s fifth anniversary presents anopportunity to assess progress, tell thecenter’s story and plan for even moresuccess.“As wonderful as the facility is, we

know that what happens inside iswhat really matters,” saidMajor Cathy Thielke,officer forprogram

by JohnWehrle

The Omaha, Neb., Ray and JoanKroc Corps CommunityCenter is celebrating five yearsof making its city a better

place. Dedicated on November 6,

Major Ian Robinson Major Isobel Robinson

2

Afamous quote attributed toSt. Francis of Assisi hasalways challenged me. Itgoes: “Preach the Gospel at

all times, and when necessary, usewords.” The principle is God’s mes-sage of love, reconciliation and trans-formation is most effectively commu-nicated when it is clearly and easilyseen in our actions. When we haveopportunity to speak, our wordsaligning with our actions will carry acredibility and power often viewedas lacking in this post-modern age.This is the essence of James 2:14-18.

Our desire to consistently reflect avital, Christ-centered life is one wecannot achieve on our own. It is fartoo easy to allow the stresses and dis-

Additionally many people in corps,adult rehabilitation centers, divi-sional and territorial headquartersare joining each week withSalvationists around the world inBoundless...The Whole WorldPraying.

It is important to remember spiri-tual refreshment is not just for ourbenefit. We are called to meet theneeds of those who come into oursphere of influence, regardless ofwhether they are presently part ofour corps or center family. Servicenaturally flowing from our relation-ship with Christ will “preach thegospel” powerfully and credibly.

I am encouraged and inspired tohear about examples of Kingdom-building service. If you want toshare how you are modeling thegospel through service during Lent,please send it to me atUSC_Program@usc.salvationarmy.org so I can pass the idea along.

tractions of life to pull our focusaway from Jesus. When that hap-pens, a careless word or sharpresponse can slip out, resulting in adisconnect between our faith andbehavior. We have to depend dailyon God’s grace, mercy and empower-ing of the Holy Spirit. We need regu-lar periods of spiritual renewal.

Fortunately, we are in the middle ofLent. It is a time of reflection and spir-itual renewal as we prepare to cele-brate the death and resurrection ofJesus. This year’s theme for our terri-tory’s Lenten worship series is“Resurrection Life.” The series’ pur-pose is to “guide you into experiencingthe gospel of Christ in its fullness.”

In the “Serve Vigorously” section

CentralConnectionTHE SALVATION ARMY10 W. Algonquin Road • Des Plaines, Illinois 60016847-294-2000WILLIAM AND CATHERINE BOOTHFounder

ANDRÉ COXGeneral

COMMISSIONER PAUL R. SEILERTerritorial CommanderDOUGLAS McDANIELExecutive Director of DevelopmentELIZABETH KINZIEEditorial DirectorANNE URBANEditor/WriterJACQUELYN BENTSONCommunications SpecialistBRITTANY CHINNCirculation ManagerKENNETH ROMINGraphic Design and Production

VISIT OUR WEBSITE—www.salarmycentral.org1-800-SALARMY

GetConnected!Check out our complementary material on the web.salarmycentral.orgResources/LinksBoundless Joy Commissioning weekend registrationBoundless...TheWhole World Reading websiteOmaha Kroc websiteWorld Missions websiteTerritorial Candidates’ websiteAndrewWainwright’s websiteEwan Drum’s Facebook pageCorrectional Services Ministries websiteSt. Louis Urban Mission Center

MediaThe Huron Carol Canadian Traditions arr. byAndrew Wainwright

Web exclusivesKenya global mission team testimony by CaptainDebra OsbornSinging Company curriculum ideas by CharolMcDonaldMore on the Lincoln, Neb., Corps’ Shield FineArts AcademyThe Salvation Army in Argentina

For late breaking news,visit our website!

Log on to salarmycentral.org

OmahaKroc

Preaching throughcredible service

Continued from page 1

of Creating a Shared Future, we arechallenged to be “spiritually nour-ished, emotionally mature, relational-ly healthy and physically preparedfor the demands of Kingdom-buildingwork.” We will be empowered toprovide credible, vigorous service inproportion to the fullness of Christwe are experiencing individually andcorporately.

The use of the Lenten worshipseries in our Sunday services is justone of the tools available to help usbe spiritually nourished. Right now,more than 4,300 people are readingthrough the New Testament by par-ticipating in the Boundless...TheWhole World Reading challenge.

as 20,000 meals in just the past threeyears.

Major Todd Thielke, senior KrocCenter officer said, “Knowing howfortunate we are to have great facili-ties, we provide access to the KrocCenter for an event or special meet-ing to a different Omaha non-profiteach month, as well as hosting theSouth Omaha NeighborhoodAlliance’s monthly meetings.” TheOmaha Kroc Center is an increasing-ly valued partner of government and

non-profit agencies that work toimprove this vital community,including being a South Omaha

enrollment siteand keyemployer forthe STEP-UPOmaha sum-mer jobs pro-gram.

The congre-gation also isserving a broadcross-section ofOmahans, origi-nal OmahaSouth Corpsmembers,neighborhoodresidents, andpeople who aremoving for-ward after gain-ing stability in

the traditionalSalvation Armysocial service pro-grams. Two of theseare sisters, Bettyand Amanda, wholoved the open,warm receptionthey received at theKroc Center somuch that they are

now adherents, their children arejunior soldiers, and they are deeplyinvolved in ministry and center pro-grams.

In the past five years, Omaha’sKroc Center has enjoyed nearly 1million visits from members, peopleattending community and corporateevents, future soccer and swimmingstars—a huge cross-section of themetro area’s residents and guestsfrom all over the world. Instead of anabandoned meat-processing plantwhere gang initiations and drug dealswere starting to be the norm, thisarea of the city now has TheSalvation Army’s Kroc Center, amodern facility with top-line equip-ment and staff dedicated to helpingpeople grow in ability, confidenceand potential.

“Joan Kroc knew that providingopportunities for all people to behealthy, happy and confident is bet-

ter for kids, parents at work, atschool and in a community inwhich all can succeed,” said MajorTodd. “When people come to theKroc Center, we work with them todiscern their innate spark, to helpthem identify their talents, andthen to create a program that devel-ops their potential. We inspiregrowth.”

by Lt. Colonel Paul SmithTerritorial Secretary for Program

3

“We’re pleased but not surprisedby our corps’ response to the chal-lenge. Our people have a hunger forthe Word and the things of God asevidenced by healthy attendance atadult Sunday school and midweekBible studies,” he continued. “It’s abeautiful Bible, and the readingplan is well laid out and not over-whelming. We list the passages tobe read during the upcoming weekin the Sunday bulletin and then tiethem into worship.

“It’s also been a positive link withthe Boundless InternationalCongress in London,” he added.“Although no one from Janesvillecan be there, participating in thereading plan keeps us part ofwhat’s happening in the Armyworldwide!”

Youth accept challengeAlthough 273 people accepted the

Bible-reading challenge at theRockford Temple, Ill., Corps, themost notable commitment wasmade by the 21 corps cadets led byBryant and Karen Erickson, saidMajors Steven and ChristineMerritt, corps officers.

“Although we’ve been blessed tobe entrusted as the corps cadetleaders and regularly stress theimportance of exploring God’sWord, we believe Barb Higgins, thecorps’ Thursday-night teen Biblestudy leader, has had the greatestimpact on our teens’ response tothe Boundless challenge,” saidBryant. “Her passion for God’sWord, along with her work as theterritorial youth development spe-cialist for ages 14-17, has greatlyinfluenced our youth.”

When the Boundless challengewas first announced, Barb not onlyencouraged the teens to sign up buttheir parents and corps prayer part-ners as well. “This approach toBible study promotes intergenera-tional communication and mutualaccountability, allowing participantsfrom age 7 to 70 to freely discusswith each other what they learnedthat week in addition to peer shar-ing during our Thursday-night Biblestudy,” said Barb.

Unanimous responseThe term “B’Gosh” no longer just

applies to the well-known denimoveralls produced in this Wisconsincity; it also describes the OshkoshCorps’ virtually unanimous responseto the 2015 Boundless Bible-readingchallenge!

In addition to encouraging individ-ual Bible study, A/Captains Donaldand Vicky Karl, corps officers, haveintegrated the weekly scripture read-ings into the corps’ Tuesday-nightBible study and Sunday messages.

“Tuesday nights provide a weeklyopportunity for people to ask ques-tions, share insights and look deeperinto scripture, a new endeavor forsome,” said A/Captain Don. “And,Sunday messages encourage peopleto keep up-to-date with their commit-ment for better context so they canthink, ‘Yeah, I remember readingthat!’

“Participants can also sense theexcitement in the text messages mywife and I send out, such as ‘Thereadings over the last three dayshave been incredible because...’ Youhave to ‘want them to want it,’which happens when they start see-ing the excitement and vitality ofchanged lives around the corps!” heconcluded.

Constitutional Adviser to theGeneral.

“My wife and I are honored to bepart of this historic weekend in theUSA Central Territory,” saidCommissioner Kenneth Hodder.“The Salvation Army is not onlythanking God for what He hasaccomplished in the past, but it isalso prayerfully considering how itcan better serve Him in the future.How Salvationists choose to worktogether as an international move-ment will be key to that conversa-tion, and so we look forward toexchanging ideas, sharing visionsand participating fully in what weknow will be a marvelous celebra-tion of possibilities.”

All on boardJust about everyone attending the

Pekin, Ill., Corps signed up for theyear-long Bible-reading challenge, asdid another dozen or so peopleinvolved in the corps’ transitional-housing and scouting programs!Captains Rick and Kim Ray, corpsofficers, said they were pleasantlysurprised so many people (57) signedup so quickly.

“We’ve not only been encouragingindividual Bible study but are incor-porating the challenge into Biblestudies and messages,” said CaptainRick. “I think we had such a strongresponse because we were personallyexcited about the challenge, andmany here are eager to grow closerto God and in their faith.”

Captain Kim had been hoping tolaunch a Bible-reading plan for thecorps when information on theBoundless challenge arrived. Excitedto share this opportunity with thecorps, she showed the video thatSunday.

“We have a wonderful congrega-tion of long-time Salvationists andnew believers, as well as those stillsearching for where they belong. Weencouraged them to see how fun itcan be to read God’s Word and thentalk about what we learned togeth-er,” she said. “A great mix of all agesresponded to the challenge, and ourcorps cadets are doing it as a group.”

Hunger for WordAt the Janesville, Wis., Corps 93

people signed up for the 2015 Bible-reading challenge, a huge percentageof the corps’ average attendance“depending on the weather and thePackers’ schedule,” said Major RobertFay, corps officer with his wife,Ruth.

The Boundless JoyCommissioning weekend willwelcome special guestsCommissioners Kenneth and

Jolene Hodder. Featured most promi-nently on Saturday morning, theywill bring an inspiring internationalperspective.

The Hodders serve as theTerritorial Commander andTerritorial President for Women’sMinistries in the Kenya WestTerritory, which is one of the largestand fastest growing territories in theworld. The Hodders have responsibil-ity for 438 corps, over 1,000 out-posts, more than 125,000 senior sol-diers and 124,000 junior soldiers.They also carry responsibility formore than 800 Salvation Armyschools, which educate hundreds ofthousands of children each year, aswell as specialized institutions for theblind, deaf, and physically and men-tally disabled.

In addition to their currentappointments, they have served in avariety of corps, training, and head-quarters appointments, includingthree years in the USA SouthernTerritory as coordinators for theInternational Millennial Congress.

Immediately prior to assumingtheir current roles, they were sta-tioned at International Headquartersas International Secretary andAssociate International Secretary forPersonnel. Commissioner KennethHodder also served as Legal and

Tens of thousands of Salvationists started the New Year bycommitting to read the entire New Testament in 2015. In theCentral Territory alone more than 4,300 people are participatingin the Boundless... The Whole World Reading challenge!

Boundless Joy to feature Hodders

On March 20-21 bringawareness to world hungerby hosting Project: FASTat your corps.

Through laughter, games, educa-tional activities, prayer and Biblestudy, participants will learn abouthunger-related needs. They'll experi-ence hunger for themselves as theyfast for 24 hours.

The purpose is not only to bringawareness but to raise funds forhunger-related causes within The

Salvation Army. The territorialworld missions department isencouraging corps to invite every-one for a “break the fast” meal atthe conclusion, which could beused as a fundraising activity.

Corps interested in participatingshould contact the territorial worldmissions department atwww.centralmissions.org to receivea leader’s guide, activity andfundraising ideas and a sampleschedule.

A tiny taste of hunger

4

by MajorViolet Ezeh

It was wonderful tocelebrate the 100thanniversary ofTrinidad’s Port of

Spain Central Corpsbuilding without havingto worry about rainwater running down thewalls and streamingthrough the chapelthanks to the CentralTerritory and its people!

Most of the buildinghad been repaired,cleaned and repaintedby a Central territorialglobal mission team justin time for the start ofour long-anticipatedanniversary crusade,which featured MajorEmmanuel Michaud, theKansas CityBellefontaine, Mo., corpsofficer, as our specialguest speaker.

During the week-long crusade,Major Emmanuel preached to apacked house at the corps eachevening and led a Bible study dur-ing the day. He made a big impacton our community, as did themembers of the global mis-sion team. We were amazedat how many passersby camein off the street to watch theteam transform the building.One lady was so impressedwith the renovations, sheasked to speak with CaptainDr. Felix Ezeh and then madea sizeable donation!

Encouraged by the teams’energy, community peoplecame forward to help,which provided manyopportunities for the teamto witness and invite themto the corps. We were verypleased to see new faces inthe congregation as a resultof the team’s invitations.

God has worked inwonderful ways throughthe Central Territory,not only in providingthe means to refurbishour physical place ofworship but in rejuve-nating our spiritual tem-ples through fellowshipwith the team as well asMajor Emmanuel, who’shad a special relation-ship with the Ezeh fami-ly for many years. As

the regional commander, he wel-comed me to Antigua in 1995 whenI first began serving overseas as ayoung officer. And, it was he whofirst involved Dr. Felix in Armyministry which led to him becom-ing an officer—and my husband!

Team leaves lasting impact

Nineteen yearsago SouthAfrican-bornDeon Oliver

came to the UnitedStates to work as acamp counselor atSilver Lake Camp (nowNorthwoods) in theNorthern Division. Hereturned home after theseason but came backmonths later to work asa corps helper at theMinneapolis Parkview,Minn., Corps for a yearprior to entering theCollege for OfficerTraining (CFOT) inChicago. As a cadet, hewas introduced by a rel-ative to Michelle, anAustralian officer whowas serving inVancouver, Canada.

Deon and Michellewere married in June 1999 and fol-lowing Deon’s commissioning wereappointed to the Iowa City, Iowa,Corps for four years, then theSpringfield, Ill., Corps for three.Appointments followed at the CFOTand then as divisional youth secre-taries in the Eastern MichiganDivision.

Three years ago, Majors Deon andMichelle moved to Australia withtheir three children to serve a three-year term in Michelle’s home territo-ry. Twelve months ago it was realizedsince neither Deon nor Michellehave citizenship in the United States,they would need to either return tothe Central Territory at the conclu-sion of 2014 or remain in Australia,where Michelle is a citizen and Deonhas permanent residency.

Following consultation and muchprayer, Deon and Michelle decided totransfer to the Australian EasternTerritory. The main reasons were sta-

bility for their children and to havea longer stay in their currentappointment as corps officers of theStafford Corps in the SouthQueensland Division.

“We treasure our time in theUnited States and are thankful forthe opportunities extended to us,”said Michelle. “We have a stronglove for the people of the CentralTerritory. We have friends and mem-ories that will always be dear to us.”

Deon added, “Just as theKingdom of God is not bound bygeographical limitations, we havealways regarded ourselves as offi-cers of the world. Our years of ser-vice in the United States andCanada have opened our eyes toministry perspectives and Kingdomopportunities around the world. Weare thankful to God who continuesto order our steps and trust Him forour remaining years of service asSalvation Army officers.”

Aussies for good

Women’sMinistriesmissionopportunity!

Women’sMinistriesmembersinterested in

serving outside of the U.S.won’t want to miss theopportunity to apply for the“Women to Women” missionteam to Uruguay, SouthAmerica East Territory.

In partnership with theterritorial world missionsdepartment, the women’sministries department isorganizing a team of eight toserve October 22 – 30, 2015.The personal cost toparticipants is $750. Spanishspeaking skills areencouraged but not required.Apply by March 31.

Captain Dr. Felix and Major Violet Ezeh, Port of SpainCentral corps officers, with their son, Matthew

Team members lay a fresh coat of wax.

Wall painting required a two-story scaffold.

Visit uscwomensministries.com/womens-missions/ for more information.

“The women can now see God’sprotective custody in their ownlives,” Envoy Becky continued. A“Crafty Ladies” fellowship also aidsin the healing of hearts and mindsthrough focused attention on creatingbeauty through art.

Over the past year women’s min-istries has impacted all ages—fromgreat-grandmothers to great-grand-daughters—with creative outreachesincluding a Mad Hatter Tea Party anda Princess Ball for which fancygowns, shoes and accessories wereprovided along with hairstyling, make-up and manicure services performedby volunteers from a local salon.

The Salvation Army Soul Sistas(SASS) is another joy of women’sministries and provides plenty of sassthrough their lip-synching to Motownhits while dressed in coordinated out-fits! The group performs in venuesfrom nursing homes to camps and

other corps in the Indiana Division.“We adapt secular songs into a

devotional structure,” the envoy con-tinued. Devotional thoughts inspiredby song lyrics include “You can’thurry love, no you just have to wait,”yet we charge ahead and make choic-es that can tear us down. “Stop, inthe name of love, before you breakmy heart,” but with God’s help, “Iwill survive!” And, finally “O happyday when Jesus washed my sinsaway” and the decision, “I will followHim!” Carols are similarly adaptedfor a Christmas devotional.

“We were especially blessed duringa nursing home visit when a youngwoman, completely paralyzed exceptfor her face and voice, squealed withdelight as she sang along with us.The smile on her face was priceless,”Envoy Becky concluded. “It’s just sorewarding to spread the joy of Jesus!”

Females young to old areblooming with confidenceand empowerment throughthe numerous outreach

efforts and creative programming ofwomen’s ministries at theIndianapolis Center City, Ind., Corps.

“We love having joy in Jesus!Following God should be excitingand full of abundance in grace,mercy and especially joy,” saidEnvoy Becky Barringer Roberson,administrator since 2012 of the corpslocated in “The Block of Hope” build-ing which also contains a center forwomen and children plus low-income housing.

A fourth-generation Salvationist,the envoy personally attests to thenecessity of hope.

“I know what it means to thinkyour dreams will never come trueand all hope is gone. But, I alsoknow first-hand the joy of restora-tion, which God promises in Joel2:25. He will pay back the years thelocusts have eaten,” she said.

The corps’ GRACE (God’s Richesat Christ’s Expense) women’s min-

istries initiative gives hope throughits Growing Strong program andHOPE (Hour of Power andEncouragement) Bible study inwhich participants learn how toapply scripture to their daily lives.

“The ladies are realizing God’sWord is His story of how much Heloves us,” the envoy continued. “Hedoesn’t use perfect people; His gloryis shown through the imperfect!”

When the group studied You’ll GetThrough This by Max Lucado, theyparticularly identified with Josephwhen Lucado referred to the pit as“God’s protective custody.”

2006. In 2008, she was appointed toSioux Falls, S.D., as associate corpsofficer until her most recentappointment in 2011 toMetropolitan DivisionalHeadquarters where she served ascommunity care ministries secre-tary, with the additional appoint-ment of moral and ethical issuessecretary.

She looks forward to living nearfamily in her new home and attend-ing the Royal Oak, Mich., Corps.

Retiring after 43 years offaithful service, MajorLinda Ibbs incorporatedher passion for quilting

into her retirement celebration byhaving guests sign their names oncloth triangles so she could make acolorful keepsake!

The celebration service and lun-cheon (with quilt-themed décor)were held at the Oakbrook Terrace,Ill., Corps. The meeting was led byLt. Colonel Charles Smith, whileLt. Colonel Ralph Bukiewicz con-ducted the retirement ceremony.Major Steve Harper reminiscedabout their days at training college,and the Oakbrook Terrace CorpsBand gave a rousing rendition ofMajor Linda’s favorite hymn, “Andcan it be.”

Commissioned as a lieutenantwith the “Lightbringers” session in1972 (completing her bachelor’sdegree in Bible from VennardCollege the same year), Linda wasappointed to serve the next sevenyears in Booth Memorial Hospitals inSt. Paul, Minn., and Detroit, Mich.She then held several positions with-in business services at territorialheadquarters from 1979 until 2004,during which time she becamedeeply rooted at the OakbrookTerrace Corps.

The major then served as a busi-ness officer in Green Bay, Wis., fortwo years until she was appointedthe Marinette, Wis., corps officer in

Quilt reflects officer’s life

A Mad Hatter tea party is just one of recent creative outreaches to women (Envoy Beckyis at left)!

Keeping hope alive

luxury of being able to put on afresh, clean pair of socks is some-thing they might not have.”

“I have never seen such a gener-ous child,” she continued. “I havenever seen someone so little do somuch for another person.”

Maya was inspired after watchingon YouTube the ever-popular KidPresident, who’d posted a videoinspiring other kids to gather socksfor homeless people. She put on herSuper Girl costume and made herown video asking people to donatesocks. The family posted Maya’svideo on Facebook. Soon, a steadystream of donations flowed in, and afamily friend offered to match everygift Maya accumulated during anextended weekend last fall. Sheraised more than four times her goal.

Maya’s dad hopes her effortinspires others to get involved. Hesaid, “I hope it gives a little spark topeople.”

by Craig Dirkes

Maya Breininger is aninspiration. Not onlydid she start a sockdonation drive that

produced 436 pairs of socks, shedistributed them personally. Andshe’s only 8.

This winter Maya gave thesocks to hundreds of people eat-ing breakfast at the St. PaulCitadel, Minn., Corps’ free break-fast which serves a hot meal to200-300 people every weekdaymorning. When breakfast-goersheard the announcement that alittle girl had brought them socks,the room erupted into applause.Some people had tears streamingdown their face. Others shouted“God bless you!”

Initially overwhelmed by the lineof people, Maya’s bashfulness sub-sided with the support of her par-ents, Sean and Allison Breininger,and the appreciative recipients. Oneafter another, they shook Maya’shand and hugged her.

“I think it’s beautiful,” said recipientMike Thoen. “It’s great to be able toget a warm pair of socks. She’s got agood heart.” Others wrote thank youletters saying things like, “My heartwas greatly strengthened from seeingyou here at The Salvation Army thismorning,” or “Had holey socks, now Ihave new warm ones. Thanks.”

Socks are a blessing to the home-less and the working poor. “A lot ofthese people are on their feet all day.They can’t afford to take the bus,”said Molly Schuneman, social ser-vices team leader at the corps. “The

Big heart, warm feet

5

The members of SASS present biblical truths through sassy performances!

Envoy Becky Roberson (l) at a princess partyoffering pampering, primping and fun!

6

by Sara Johnson

Just under 10 years ago, theworld entered what hasbeen coined the “UrbanMillennium.” For the first

time in history, over half of theworld’s population lived in cities.As this trend continues, the needfor missional leaders who areequipped to serve in urban settingsalso rises.

To meet this need the MidlandDivision has established the UrbanMission Center, a ministry locatedin an under-resourced neighbor-hood of St. Louis, Mo. It began sev-eral years ago with a few people inthe city looking to create change ina neighborhood. In December 2013we began the official process toestablish the Urban MissionCenter.

After much preparation, the divi-sion held a weekend retreat todesign the framework for theUrban Mission Center. We inviteda group of 18 leaders from acrossthe territory to join us in St Louisto sit under the teaching ofCanadian pastor and author AlanRoxburgh. He and his team fromthe Missional Network guided usas we identified three key compo-nents of the new initiative: innova-tion, learning communities, anddwelling.

Innovation is creativi-ty in action and a neces-sity for the church ofthe Urban Millennium,which makes it animportant component ofour center. As we moveforward with the UrbanMission Center, ourgoal is to create timeand space to imagine,explore and think.Gathering for times ofinnovation eliminatesdistractions and rein-forces the importanceof our work. It bringstogether urban mission-ers to ask questions and wrestlewith issues in creative ways.

Over the next year the centerwill develop five learning commu-nities where leaders can investigateand initiate principles of innovationin the context of urban mission.We hope members of our learningcommunities will grow together intheir understanding of urban min-istry through learning experiments

that cover a variety of issues specif-ic to urban mission.

Throughout the year, we’ll behosting weekend learning opportu-nities to consider concepts of urbanmission. A few of the topicsinclude urban youth and the lead-ers who love them, postures formissional community, and neigh-borhood asset mapping. Theseweekends will create space for our

learning com-munities togather and offerenrichment toanyone interest-ed in learningmore abouturban ministry.

Our primarylearning com-munity, theTemple HouseCommunity(TempleHouses), existedbefore the

Urban Mission Centerand served as a catalystfor our initiative.Engaging in neighbor-hood transformation,young adults live, serveand worship together,committed to making adifference in the nameof Jesus in the BentonPark West neighbor-hood. Those dwelling atthe Temple Housesserve the neighborhoodalongside local church-es and social serviceorganizations. Theopportunities for trans-formation abound fromneighborhood beautifi-cation and foodpantries to communitygardens and youthdevelopment.

The Temple House Communitygathers on Sunday evenings toexplore concepts of urban missionand intentional community. Overthe course of a year, we’ve studiedDietrich Bonhoeffer’s LifeTogether and used Thin Places:Six Postures for Creating andPracticing Missional Communityby Jon Huckins and Rob Yackley tohelp shape our role in the neigh-borhood. This past fall we complet-ed the Storyline curriculum, wherewe explored our personal roles inGod’s story.

77

One practical way theTemple Houses engageswith our community isthrough Temple Gardens, acollection of urban gardensin our neighborhood. Whileadding to the neighbor-hood’s beauty and charac-ter, the gardens also pro-vide a tool for communitydevelopment. The UrbanMission Center partnerswith the St. Louis TempleCorps to teach youth andtheir parents the basics ofgardening, from startingseedlings to harvesting andpreparing produce. A local non-profit comes regularly to teachfamilies how to incorporate garden-fresh ingredients into their dailycooking routines.

The gardens bring neighborstogether and create a safe place forbuilding relationships. Being out-side naturally lends itself to con-versation in a relaxed and openenvironment. A neighbor might notbe willing to spend time with youat church, but she just might beinterested in helping in the garden!

With the hope of showing the joythat comes from being a goodneighbor, members of the TempleHouse Community led young peo-ple on a neighborhood walk. Westrolled through Benton Park West,stopping to highlight the goodthings around us.

We discussed what it means tobe a good neighbor in simple wayslike keeping your yard tidy andplanting flowers for people toenjoy. When we asked our explor-ers, a group of 10 little boys, what

it means to be a goodneighbor, answersincluded “trainingyour dog to be nice,”and “saying hello topeople you pass onthe street.”

Our walk conclud-ed in the TempleGardens, where welearned about com-posting and raisingchickens. It’s alwayssurprising how manyquestions are askedregarding chickens,specifically the eggs.We’ve been askedmore than once to crack an eggbecause a young person didn’tbelieve it was an actual egg that

you could eat. Hannah, one of oursunbeams, decided to attempt handfeeding the chickens some corn wehad harvested. We heard the bestthing from her that night: “It feelsgood to be brave!”

The Temple House Communityreached outside of our local area toserve in Ferguson, Mo., for severalmonths. We worked on canteensand listened to a hurting communi-ty. One of the highlights for ourgroup was spending a Sunday after-noon painting murals across board-ed up windows, spreading mes-sages of hope and love amidst thepain.

Looking back over the last year,we are certain God is up to some-thing special not just in our St.Louis neighborhood but in TheSalvation Army as a whole. Wemove forward with great anticipa-tion.

For more information about theUrban Mission Center or to applyto Temple Houses, visitwww.urbanmissioncenter.com

88

Save one, build one,sendone

described his life as arevolving door. “I wasin and out of prisons,jails and rehabilitationcenters so many timesI can’t recall,” he said.He was shot on fourdifferent occasions andestimates he spent atleast 12 years “incar-cerated, on probation,or on the run.”

Near the end of hislast prison sentence,Tony, by then 32, wasvisited by Ernest Jones,Kansas and WesternMissouri divisional cor-rectional servicesdirector. Upon hearingthe gospel for the firsttime, Tony gave his lifeto Christ.

“I couldn’t believe [Jesus]could forgive me for all I’ddone and love me uncondi-tionally,” said Tony. Soonafter he was paroled andplaced in a correctionalwork release program.

“One day a burly bikerdude walked into the facili-ty,” recalled Tony. “I firstthought, ‘What’s his scam?’only to discover the bikerwas in love with Jesus and amember of the ChristianMotorcycle Association.” Hebecame Tony’s mentor.

As part of the program,Tony worked at a steel recy-cling company. Five yearslater he became plant man-ager. The company’s ownershave given him free rein tohire ex-offend-ers (90percentofemploy-

ees), provide skillstraining and mentor-ing services, then askthem to leave for bet-ter-paying jobs so the“people-recycling”process can continue.Since Tony, now 50,began working there,the company hasgrown dramatically.

Tony started “givingback” almost immedi-ately after leavingprison by ministeringto incarcerated adultsand youth. He startedattending the Olathe,Kan., Corps, marriedhis high-school sweet-heart, Marta, and hada son, Sam, now 10.They are actively

involved at the corps.Eleven years ago Tony joined

divisional correctional services asa part-time chaplain. He’s so grate-ful to be able to help multiplyGod’s Kingdom through both hisfull and part-time occupations.With the goal of “saving one,building one and sending one,”Tony gets particular satisfactionwhen he sees entire families trans-form as ex-offenders reconnectwith spouses, children and birthfamilies and become responsiblemembers of society.

Still a biker at heart, Tony wasproud to be among the first com-missioned members of the territor-ial motorcycle ministry last year.His wife also joined, and togetherthey look forward to new avenuesof service.

When drugs are cen-tral to the lives ofyour entire familysince the day you

were born, that’s your conceptof what’s normal,” said AnthonyTaylor. Today a correctionalchaplain for the Kansas andWestern Missouri Division,Tony was saved from such a lifeby God’s grace through theArmy’s corrections ministries.

His parents and four siblingsnot only used but sold drugs.Tony began using at age 13 andjoined the “family business” at18. Although dealing drugsenabled them to move out ofthe projects in Kansas City, Mo.,into a nice house in the sub-urbs, the consequences of theiractivities had ravaging effects oneach of them, not the leastbeing Tony’s mother serving 20years in prison.

Labeled an “outlaw biker whodidn’t play by the rules,” Tony

“

intern, and it has confirmed I am onGod’s planned path.

I recognized God was calling me toofficership almost as soon as I wasintroduced to The Salvation Army, butI had not chosen the right path whichwould lead me to training. Once I did,I prayed everything I did would delib-erately lead me in the ordained direc-tion.

To some it may have appeared mygoal of becoming an officer was notattainable. There were many obstacles,but I’ve learned the goal is obtainablewhen the path is right. I’ve learnedstruggles should be expected, and evenwelcomed, as confirmation we are fol-lowing in Christ’s footsteps, but themost liberating lesson has been toenjoy the journey.Carmon’s corps officers are Captains

Ronnie and Bridgette Amick.

NewlyacceptedcandidateCarmon CampCape Girardeau,Mo., CorpsMidland Division

“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lordis on me, because the Lord hasanointed me to proclaim good newsto the poor. He has sent me to bind

up the broken-hearted, to pro-claim freedomfor the captivesand releasefrom darknessfor the prison-ers.” Isaiah 61:1(NIV, 1984).This was theverse I openedmy Bible towhen I got toCape Girardeauas a ministry

by Lt. Colonel Daniel SjögrenTerritorial Ambassador for Holiness

Iam finding a greatdeal of satisfactionsharing about theHoly Spirit and how

He is represented inGod’s Word. Sometimesthe depiction is of fireor wind, but to me themost compelling imageis the dove.

As I was growing up,a lot of pigeons nestedand flew around ourhouse. There were somany pigeons ourneighbor caught one and brought itto our house convinced we were rais-ing them! These dirty birds werecause for much discussion aroundthe family dinner table.

Perhaps this is one of the reasonsI’m attracted to doves which arequite different from pigeons. Thevery fact doves could be offered insacrifice in the Old Testament isproof it is a clean bird. According tocommentaries, a clean bird could flyand did not feed on flesh. (Perhaps I

misjudged the pigeon.)In the Bible, Noah

released both a ravenand a dove from the arkafter the flood. Theraven did not comeback; it must havefound carrion to feedon. But the dove wasforced by hunger to

come back to Noah because it hadno place to eat or rest.

As with the dove, the Holy Spiritis very particular. He finds satisfac-tion in making known the messageof God. He cannot feel comfortablewith sin, the filth of the world, anddesires in me a clean heart.

May each of us be clean in wordand thought and deed, praying asDavid, “Create in me a clean heart,O Lord.”

On thewingsof grace

Tony Taylor gives back through his ministry efforts with ex-offenders.

Tony and Marta Taylor are proud soldiers and members of theArmy’s motorcycle ministry!

Ewan doesn’t fly solo; he is joinedby his parents, James and AngeDrum; his brother, Crosby, 1; hissister, Josephine, 3; his grandmoth-er, Mary, and an exchange student,Mathias, 17, from Belgium.

“It’s a nice thing to do, and itmakes people smile,” said Ewanabout why he wanted to help thehomeless. Not only does he have abig heart, he’s a Christian. “Ibelieve that He [Jesus] died for me.”

His explorers leader, Liz Lewis,also credits his leadership skills.

“He is very outgoing, talkativeand inquisitive,”said Liz. “He’salready learnedhis pledge,prayer andmotto, and wehave twoyounger kids thathe helps out alot. If one of ourkids misses aclass, he’s therecatching them upthe next time.He’s a reallygood kid.” Heloves his explor-ers class wherehis favorite activ-ity is hiking.

Up next forEwan is findinganother spot todistribute goodsto the homeless,and when hegrows up, he’dlike to be apolice officer.

When seven-year-old Mt.Clemens, Mich., Corpsexplorer Ewan Drumcame to his mom last

May and said he wanted to dress uplike a superhero and take food to thehomeless in Detroit, Mich., she wason board.

With lightning speed, Super Ewan,Inc., became a 501c3 non-profit inAugust. It provides food, clothingand other basic necessities to thehomeless. They collect donations anddistribute these items to those inneed in Roosevelt Park in Detroit thefourth Saturday of each month.

Hometown superhero

Women’s Restorative Program inWinnebago County, Pam had aresume created to reflect her certifica-tion and experience as a nurse’s aide.Pam and Nancy sent out inquires andresumes and prayed regularly for ajob. Pam also attended a program thathelped to rebuild her confidence as aprofessional. Within a month Nancyreceived a call from the driver of anelderly couple who had just lost theircaretaker. The job was a great fit.

Pam ended up needing only onemonth of rental assistance since shefound a job so quickly. Now shehas stable housing, has drasticallyreduced government dependenceand is saving to purchase a house.

With these goals met throughPathway of Hope, Pam’s grandkidswere set up with the Boys and GirlsClub, and they all went back tochurch. Pam has gotten moreinvolved and has started serving inthe church kitchen.

“Her commitment to being openand honest, dedication to the planand trust in God is what madePam’s journey a success,” saidNancy.

Pamela Wilkins came to TheSalvation Army WinnebagoCounty, Ill., Social ServiceCenter for food assistance.

She had visited previously, but thistime case worker Nancy Rodrigueznoticed sadness in her countenanceand asked Pam if there was anythingelse she could do.

“She poured out her heart to me,”recalled Nancy about the conversa-tion. “She said she was a singlegrandma taking care of her fourgrandchildren. Her daughter had afatal brain tumor and could nolonger care for herself or her kids. Ithad gotten so bad Pam was about tobe evicted.”

Almost immediately Nancy thoughtof the Pathway of Hope approach forPam who was ready to make changesin her life. Together they set the goalsof Pam finding employment, stabiliz-ing her housing situation, findingextracurricular activities for hergrandchildren and returning tochurch since she felt her faith was animportant part of the journey.

Thanks to a resume service providedby a graduate of The Salvation Army’s

A journey to success

Having celebrated its 125thanniversary last fall, the corps hasdeveloped ministries to meet the

needs of its unique envi-ronment. The majorbelieves one of the corps’best features is its socialservices staff.

“They genuinely careabout those in need whocome in for assistance,and they’ve developed aministry with the ex-offenders who partici-pate in the ElkhartCounty work release pro-gram We also see them on Sundaymornings for both worship andSunday school,” Major Allen added.

The corps seniors program attractsup to 150 people and meets fourtimes a week. The participants,who’ve dubbed themselves JOY (JustOlder Youth), include older membersof the corps who help bridge partici-pants into corps life and other pro-grams.

Another recent development is theresurrection of women’s ministriesby a core group of ladies who’vetaken it upon themselves to reachout to other women in the communi-ty to learn, serve and have funtogether.

Developments in youth program-ming also have been encouraging.The corps has seen the enrollmentof seven new junior soldiers andhas saluted two Honor JuniorSoldiers and a General’s Guard, aswell as a second-place winner inthe latest Young Salvationist cre-ative arts contest!

“Whether it’s through youthactivities, Bible studies or otherprograms and ministries, the corpshopes to reach more people forGod’s Kingdom,” Major Allen con-cluded. “And, the more people whocome to us as a place of refuge, themore opportunities we’ll have topreach the gospel—sometimes evenusing words!”

Not many peoplecan blame beingstuck behind ahorse and buggy

as an excuse for being lateto church, but those attend-ing the Goshen, Ind., Corpscertainly could!

“We’re in a rural part ofIndiana with a heavy Amishand Mennonite population,”said Major Allen Hanton,corps officer. “But, we’relooked up to as the commu-nity’s leader in human ser-vices as well as being partof its religious society. And,community support is generous, pro-viding most of the resources we needto fulfill our mission.” Churches,clubs and other organizations evenpitch in annually to help run thecorps’ Pancake Day, which in its 51styear served more than 2,400 people!

Rural corpsmakes impression

Commissioners Paul R. and Carol Seiler, Central territorial leaders, Pam Wilkins (second fromleft) and Nancy Rodriguez at Rockford Temple, Ill., Corps during Pam’s recognition service

The Goshen Corps’ annual Pancake Day has been a huge draw for 51 years.

Major Allen Hanton, Goshen corps officer,and Major Karen Hanton, territorial disas-ter training coordinator, with their chil-dren, Bailey, 15, and Megan, 8

Majors Norman and Claire Grainger of the WesternMichigan and Northern Indiana Divisional Headquartersvisited the 125-year-old Goshen Corps on Heritage Sunday.

9

Charol McDonald is a life-long Salvationist who enthu-siastically says teaching theRoyal Oak, Mich., Corps’

singing company is the highlight ofher week. She has led the groupsince 1990.

“What do I like best? Everything!”she said. “I love the enthusiasm ofthe children, the smiles each week,the quiet kids and the ones whoaren’t! I love having a kid who never

wanted a solo or speaking role tellme, ‘This year I want a part.’ I loveencouraging the kids to do theirbest.”

In addition to a passion for chil-dren’s ministries, Charol has adegree in elementary education,participates in the Royal Oak CorpsSenior Band and Songsters, is theyoung people’s sergeant-major andworks as the Eastern Michigan divi-sional director of children’s min-istries and Safe from Harm coordi-nator.

“I remember being too young tobe part of the singing company, sit-ting in the back of the rehearsalroom, waiting for my brothers andsinging along,” said Charol. “I thinkI knew the songs better than theydid! It was my introduction tomusic and helped mold me into theperson and musician I am today.”

With a roster 43 strong, thesinging company is just about aseager as Charol. All of them partici-pate in other corps activities. “Thishas drawn several families into the

corps over the years,” said Charol.Under the leadership of Charol

and assistants Beth Dauer and AmySoffran, the youth not only havefun in singing company, they’relearning a lot about music. Duringweekly rehearsals each child isgiven music to hold whether theycan read it or not. New membersstart off with a buddy. Normallyby the second or third month, thebuddies aren’t necessary.

Charol has had several kids who

later became active in school andcommunity theater. She’s also seenmany of her members grow intomusicians and soldiers.

“Charol was always good atencouraging me to see how funmusic could be,” Abby Johnson,soldier and Salvation Armyemployee, recalled. “And morethan having fun, she showed memusic is a way to glorify God andshare His message with peoplewho need to hear it.”

Achampion for singingcompany

10

PhotosbyRickVogeney

Oneof a kind

“Having an influence on youngpeople’s lives and seeing the differ-ence it can make to them and theirministry is what is most importantto me,” he said.

Andrew’s ultimate passion iscomposing brass music. “From ayoung age I had an urge to composeand a fascination with the waynotes on a page translate intosound,” Andrew said. “I find joy inknowing you can inspire people todraw closer to God through music.”

His interest was solidified whenhe met Lt. Colonel Robert Redhead,International Staff Bandmaster atthe time. A journey followed ofstudying at university and compos-ing for numerous bands includingthe internationally renownedVirtuosi GUS Band, for which he isnow Composer in Residence.

Two years ago he released a brassmusic CD called ChristmasFantasia that includes 12 tracks,two of which feature the vocals ofFaryl Smith, who appeared onBritain’s Got Talent. He also hascomposed music for three concertsplayed by an all-star band of musi-cians from around Europe to bene-fit The Salvation Army ChikankataHospital and the Army’s John LaingClinic in Zambia.

England native AndrewWainwright, Wisconsin andUpper Michigan divisionalmusic director (DMD), is one

of a kind. He’s lived on three conti-nents, composed enough brass bandmusic to fill eight CDs, including theprocessional for his wedding thisJune, edits and designs the SABandsman (the Army’s only officialbanding publication), and evendesigned the mascot for his favoriteEnglish Premier League soccer team(although he’d call it football).

The child of officers, Andrew wasborn in England but spent his firstnine years in Africa. In 2001, afterserving at a summer music camp inTexas, he started to think about mov-ing to the U.S., and several yearslater God opened the door. Andrewapplied for the job online, only todiscover he would be reunited withMajors Steve and Morag Yoder, whohe had known when they attendedthe Bromley Temple Corps inEngland while serving atInternational Headquarters. Theyintroduced Andrew to his futurewife, Laura Brooksbank.

As DMD Andrew’s main responsi-bility is to support music programsin the 26 corps across the division.Additionally he’s in charge of thedivision’s summer music camp andChristmas caroling efforts.

Harmony in Lincoln

Lincoln Corps has transformed itsmusic ministry, which now includesa praise band and brass band.

“This has greatly enhanced ourworship experience,” reportedMajor James Pennington. “We alsohave more people wanting to getinvolved, and we’re meeting theterritorial challenge of Live Musicin Worship in Every Corps by2020.”

Perhaps Peter’s biggest responsi-bility is managing the Shield FineArts Academy music programs forcorps and at-risk youth. It began inFebruary 2014, and when Peterarrived he was tasked with expand-ing it. In addition to brass band andguitar classes, Peter has added ajunior brass band program, percus-sion class and Tuneful Toddlers,which is modeled after cherubs butalso includes basic musical instru-

mental instruction. Peterreports these tots oftensteal the show at theirrecitals.

“What’s most excitingabout the Shield Fine ArtsAcademy is seeing growth,even weekly, in the kids Iteach,” said Peter. “Theywere raw when I started,and now they can play awhole note or half note,are starting to read music,and are getting the hang ofmusic theory.”

Peter Haslett’sjourney tobecomingthe Lincoln,

Neb., Corps musicdirector started lastyear with a messageon Facebook. CaptainRachel Stouder,Heartland divisionalyouth secretary,knew Peter’s talentand encouraged himto apply.

“I put it before the Lord, andeverything started falling into place,”said Peter, who with his wife, Suzy,has four children. “God worked itout from the initial interview withthe [Majors James and Angie]Penningtons [Lincoln corps officers]to visiting the area.” Peter ended upaccepting the position.

Peter’s passion for music and lovefor ministry developed at theRockford Temple, Ill., Corps, wherehe was involved with every musicactivity and camp opportunityoffered. “By the time I got to highschool, CMI [Central Music Institute]was the highlight of my year. My dadworked at the corps, and I wouldstop by every day to either practicethe piano or write songs.” Later Petermajored in music at Wichita StateUniversity.

His arrival in June 2014 at the

Andrew with his fiancé Laura Brooksbank

Andrew plays euphonium in the ChicagoStaff Band.

Shield Fine Arts Academy brass A with Sadie Spicer, Peterand Matthew Haslett

April Prayer Calendar

Go to www.salarmycentral.orgIf you follow the prayer calendar during the year, you will have readthrough the Bible!

Day

1Wednesday

2 Thursday

3 Friday

4 Saturday

5 Sunday

6 Monday

7 Tuesday

8Wednesday

9 Thursday

10 Friday

11 Saturday

12 Sunday

13 Monday

14 Tuesday

15Wednesday

16 Thursday

17 Friday

18 Saturday

19 Sunday

20 Monday

21 Tuesday

22Wednesday

23 Thursday

24 Friday

25 Saturday

26 Sunday

27 Monday

28 Tuesday

29Wednesday

30 Thursday

Bible Reading

1 Corinthians 9-10

Exodus 1-4

1 Samuel 16-20

Psalms 39-41

Job 27-28

Jeremiah 7-11

Mark 7-8

1 Corinthians 11-12

Exodus 5-8

1 Samuel 21-25

Psalms 42-44

Job 29-30

Jeremiah 12-16

Mark 9-10

1 Corinthians 13-14

Exodus 9-12

1 Samuel 26-31

Psalms 45-47

Job 31-32

Jeremiah 17-21

Mark 11-12

1 Corinthians 15-16

Exodus 13-16

2 Samuel 1-4

Psalms 48-50

Job 33-34

Jeremiah 22-26

Mark 13-14

2 Corinthians 1-3

Exodus 17-20

Pray for The Salvation Army

Springfield, Ill., ARC*

Saginaw, Mich., Corps

Hearts to realize Jesus Christ’spassion

Sterling-Rock Falls, Ill., Corps

People finding new life in Christthis Easter

Princeton, Ind., Corps

Wisconsin&UpperMichiganDHQ**

Boundless Joy Commissioningweekend in June

Wichita Citadel, Kan., Corps

Youth Councils being held thismonth

Oakbrook Terrace, Ill., Corps

St. Louis Maplewood, Mo., Corps

Global Mission Team to IndiaSouth Eastern Territory PIM

St. Cloud, Minn., Corps

Petoskey, Mich., Corps

National Advisory Board meetingin Kansas City, Mo.

Sheboygan, Wis., Corps

Chicago Staff Band ministry inColumbus, Ohio

Waukegan, Ill., ARC*

Warren, Mich., Corps

Commissioners William &Nancy Roberts (U.K.)

Waterloo-Cedar Falls, Iowa, Corps

Richmond, Ind., Corps

Wichita West Orchard, Kan., Corps

Rockford Tabernacle, Ill., Corps

[Switzerland,] Austria &Hungary Territory PIM

St. Louis Temple, Mo., Corps

St. Paul Citadel, Minn., Corps

Rapid City, S.D., Corps

Porter County, Ind., Corps

* = Adult Rehabilitation Center** = Divisional HeadquartersPIM=Partners in Mission

11

My Prayer List

PhotosbyLauraDake

First-everNorthAmericanSongwriters Forum

by Eric Himes

The Salvation Army mustalways be singing new songswhilst it continues to winnew victories. Old songs will

not do where there is plenty of newlife.” This declaration by WilliamBooth in 1883 was a timely challengethis year for the first-ever SalvationArmy North American SongwritersForum.

Twenty-four delegates chosen fromthe four U.S. territories gathered inAtlanta, Ga., for four days of intenseworship, study and songwritinginstruction at the inaugural event.The Central Territory was represent-ed by Matt Aho, Sam Arias, ShaneByrns, Alberto Carrion, DavidHudgens, John Stewart, WilliamHimes and me.

“Our goal is to encourage, teachand affirm the next generation ofSalvationist songwriters,” said BernieDake, assistant Southern territorialmusic secretary. “We intend to ‘pourinto’ every one of these gifted songwriters during our time together.”

Dr. Ronald Holz set the tone whenhe gave a comprehensive historicalaccount of Salvation Army songwrit-ing. Delegates learned they were ingood company with names likeBooth, Slater, Cox, Orsborn, Baird,Webb, Gowans, Larsson, Himes,Laeger and Mikles, luminaries allwhose works were “contemporary”in their day. Dr. Holz concluded hispresentation with a rousing affirma-tion: “To the degree that each of youallows our Lord’s Spirit to guide youas you write, as you improve yourskill and craft, you will be successfulin whatever part of the songwritingvineyard you find yourself. We areall in His hands in this sacred duty.”

Major Lisa Smith, chaplain for theevent, spoke about the importance ofcovenant and the confidence believ-ers have in Christ. She reminded del-egates of the responsibility they have

to give worshippers a language forfaith. “You can sing things to peoplethat they won’t let you say tothem,” she said. “Your music aboutJesus will reach ears that my ser-mons about Him won’t.”

Keeping the size of the forum inti-mate was intentional as it alloweddelegates to participate in in-depth,one-on-one sessions with experi-enced songwriters. Select delegatesalso were given the opportunity fora song to be performed whilereceiving constructive feedbackfrom the entire forum in real time.The rest of the skill-building tookplace each day in multiple breakoutsessions on topics ranging from“breathing new life into traditionalsongs” to “cross-cultural songwrit-ing.” Each evening concluded with ademonstration of the power of song,including a testimony hymn singand a concert from transMissionwho performed “We Believe,” a col-lection of songs inspired bySalvation Army doctrines.

William Himes, Central territorialmusic and gospel arts secretary,concluded the teaching sessionswith a presentation about thepower of words. “The words youchoose are very important,” he said.“People are counting on us to comethrough with today’s message fortoday’s people.”

“

received,” Himes observed. “Factis, we had to add extra chairs ineach room, and yet there werestill people standing.”

Another dynamic factorto the weekend was thepresence and participationof the Territorial YouthBand (TYB), led byWilliam Himes and PeggyThomas, and TerritorialYouth Chorus (TYC) led byJoe Caddy and MeghanPierson, with Major KathyHellstrom as accompanist.They served as demonstration

groups in breakout sessions aswell as performance models inthe united sessions and in concertSaturday evening. In addition,these talented young people wereencouraged to develop their lead-ership potential as they attendedand participated in many of thebreakout sessions. In turn, theTYB and TYC were supported bythe Chicago Staff Band and Bill

NewMembers

October - December 2014

52 Senior Soldiers20 Adherents50 Junior Soldiers

12

Continued from page 1

Promoted toGloryColonelWilliam Norris

ColonelWilliam Norriswas promoted toGlory onDecember 18,2014.

William wasborn to MajorsRalph andMargaret inOwosso, Mich.,in 1934. He was an active, athleticand well-liked youth, who heard hiscalling to officership as a teenager.After attending Butler University, heentered officer training and was com-missioned in 1955 with the “Soul-Winners” session.

In 1957 he married Eleanor Dixon,and after several corps appointmentsthe Norrises were appointed toZambia in 1965. They returned to theU.S. five years later serving mostlyin divisional headquarters appoint-ments, including as divisional leadersof Western Michigan and NorthernIndiana.

They returned to Zambia in 1986,

where the colonel became the firstterritorial commander of theZambia and Malawi Territory. Theirfinal assignment in Africa was asterritorial leaders of the Ghana andLiberia Territory. After the Norrisesreturned to the U.S., the colonelserved as program secretary in theCentral Territory until their retire-ment in 1998.

Among the many highlights ofColonel William’s career was serv-ing on two High Councils.

In retirement he continued towork on special assignment, includ-ing a stint as territorial commanderin Ghana, a volunteer with emer-gency disaster services and thecorps sergeant-major at theRockford Temple, Ill., Corps.

Colonel William is rememberedas a gentle, loving family man, soulwinner, problem-solver and prayerwarrior with a heart for Africa.

He is survived by his wife,Eleanor; children, Ellen (Todd) Bearand Steven (Kristi); five grandchil-dren and one great-grandson.

Pink, bald andbeautiful!

Booth Theater Companywho served as mentors,prayer group leaders andsection members in perfor-mance.

“I am continuallyamazed at the commit-ment of these young peo-ple and how much they

are able to accomplish in so little time,”Bandmaster Himes enthused. “Manycome from long distances, arriving in timefor Friday afternoon rehearsal, then onduty that evening and throughoutSaturday; singing and playing challengingrepertoire and doing it so well—they are acredit to the Army and our territory.”

WorshipArts retreat

“The thing about The Salvation Army is we don’t only take care of those in the community,we also take care of our own,” said Gail Valenti, Wisconsin and Upper Michigan (WUM) divi-sional major gifts director. Staff at the WUM Divisional Headquarters recently gathered for apink support party in honor of Gail, who is undergoing treatment for breast cancer. WUMDivisional Commander Major Dan Jennings relaxed the dress code for the day, allowing allofficers and staff members to wear pink. A head-shaving party also took place. Several menfrom the office, including all male officers, shaved their heads to support Gail. The ladies inthe office voluntarily colored their hair pink for the day. At time of print Gail is halfwaythrough treatment and doing well.