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We must explore other models that lead us toward creative collaboration.
The Western Territory’s news source for 29 years
—Commissioner James Knaggs
July 15, 2011 • Vol. 29, No. 12
Commissioner Will Pratt promoted to Glory
A ‘joyful noise’ heard in Hawaii
BY ROBERT DOCTER A burst of brilliance shaded by the warmth of gracious humor now shines brightly on heaven’s shore. Commissioner Will Pratt, former Western Territory Chief Secretary and later Territorial Commander (1982-1984), joined colleagues and friends in Glory on July 13 from a nursing home in England. The Chief of the Staff, Commissioner Barry Swanson, writes of Pratt’s promotion to Glory, “We thank God for the life of Commissioner Will Pratt and the impact of his ministry in the name of Christ.” Born in England to Salvation Army officer
From throughout Hawaii, 101 students gathered to make a joyful noise at the Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Divisional Homelani Music School. Led by Divisional Music and Creative Ministries Director Crystal Nakamaejo, the school included special guests Kevin and Jacqui Larsson, divisional music directors from Southern California, along with John Opina and Kathryn Loret. “Homelani Music School enrollment has increased by 40 percent over the last three years,” said Nakamaejo. “Children and teens come to a better knowledge of Christ and what it means to use their talents to glorify him.” During the eight-day school, students participated in majors (brass, ukulele, guitar, timbrel and hula; electives (drama, hula, signing, timbrel, percussion, hip hop and gospel choir); and chorus, music theory and Bible lessons focusing on the life of David. “Music school was a humbling experience for me,” said Jensen Tailo, 15. “I came set on my own worldly goals. But God changed my heart midweek and truly blessed me. This year I really learned to
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One for All n Commissioner Knaggs’ new book is now available. One for All (Frontier Press, 2011), by Commissioner James Knaggs and Major Stephen Court, contains three separate titles advancing a “collective thought”—one salvation for all the world—which New Frontier explored with Knaggs in a recent interview. The first of the three books, One Day, emerged from a list of hopes, dreams, visions or prayers concerning the future of the Army—that, one day “in its entirety, the Army will be what God wants it to be,” Knaggs said. A different individual writes on each of Knaggs’ 35 prayers for the Army and ends the thought with “brainstorming” questions. Second, One Thing, “puts the dream into perspective: to win the world for Jesus,” Knaggs said. “It’s not my objective to keep The Salvation Army alive, or simply to maintain a fine organization. My goal is to advance the cause of Christ. “God will keep the Army around as long as he has a purpose for us,” Knaggs said. “In many places we’ve become institutionalized as a lovely outfit. That only leads us to perpetuity. I don’t think that’s where God wants us to be.” NEW BOOK, page 7
Inside: Frontlines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Promoted to Glory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Prayer Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Sharper Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 From the Desk of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The Spice Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 On the Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Doing the Most Good
n Homelani Music School welcomes 101 students this year.
Homelanai Music School participants perform at the Windward Mall.
trust God’s will and the plan he has for me instead of trying to do things on my own.” A grand finale concert took place June 24 at the Windward Mall Centerstage, where students demonstrated their talents with family, friends and mall patrons, sharing this year’s Homelani Music School theme, Make a joyful noise unto God, all the Earth! (Ps. 66:1 ASE).
Photo by Kevin Pontsler
“It is amazing to see how much growth happens in just eight days,” Nakamaejo said. “Some students arrive never having held an instrument before, to being able to play a few tunes. And some come never having heard the gospel, to making a commitment to live their life for Jesus. It really is a life-changing experience.”
Incoming chief secretary salutes Harfoots n Lt. Colonel Dave Hudson reflects on the Harfoots’ three years in the West. BY DAVE HUDSON, LT. COLONEL Colonels Bill and Sue Harfoot came to the Western Territory three years ago from the Colonels Bill and Sue Harfoot salute the Central Territory with crowd at Commissioning. Photo by Luis Uribe a resume of successful Salvation Army service, including corps, divisional, training college and territorial experience. They were, however, relatively unknown to most Western officers and soldiers. Immediately following the announcement of their appointment to the West, myriad calls of inquiry went out to the Central Territory, asking the same question: “What are the Harfoots like?” The reply from the Central was, “You are getting our best.” The last three years have confirmed that reply in all of our hearts and minds—the Harfoots are simply the best.
Over these three years Colonels Harfoot have traveled to every part of the territory, visiting large and small corps and programs. Regardless of where they were, they demonstrated genuine caring ministry. One officer stated, “The thing I appreciate most about the Harfoots is that I always know what to expect when I’m with them; they are the same people when around senior leaders as they are with the newly commissioned. They are authentic— the real deal.” Often, their journeys have been marked with unplanned events, such as a volcanic eruption in Alaska, record snow storms in Colorado and Idaho, a typhoon in Micronesia, lost luggage in Haiti, a bomb scare at LAX and many canceled flights. While the Harfoots are loved, their coworkers often choose to make reservations on separate flights, apprehensive of a perceived Harfoot jinx. Bill and Sue may be loved, but sometimes admiration from a distance is not a bad thing! The Harfoots came to the West with an exceptional reputation and resume; they leave now as members of the family. Colonels Bill and Sue Harfoot are taking up new appointments at National Headquarters, he as National Chief Secretary and she as National Secretary for Women’s ministires.
Suisun City’s first Spring Fling n Community celebrates progress of the currently under construction Kroc Center. BY STEFANIE VRAPI The Suisun City Corps, led by Captains Jonathan and Vickie Harvey, held its first ever Spring Fling—a community carnival and barbeque—in late May with 500 people. Residents came in droves and children ran around the park just outside where the new Suisun City Kroc Center is under construction. Visitors enjoyed a craft booth, live music, three bounce houses with slides and a jousting ring. Both the young and young at heart stayed busy. “Thank you so much for coming to our first Spring Fling,” Captain Jonathan
Harvey shouted excitedly into the microphone. “This is just a small way for us to thank all of you for your patience and support as we embark upon building a state-of-the-art community center for you, your families, your neighbors and your friends to use.” The event was not only a way for Suisun City’s corps officers to get to know their neighbors, but also a great opportunity to show people the Attendees “joust” during the Spring Fling. Photo by Stefanie Vrapi
newest renderings and communicate up-to-date information about the Suisun City Kroc Center. “There’s no better place than right SPRNG FLING, page 2
On the web: Find more stories and features at newfrontierpublications.org
• Western territory retired officers hold retreat • Biking across America to help veterans • How a Salvation Army church opened its heart to a newcomer • NFL Pro Ruben Brown supports Salvation Army with a 7,000-mile motorcycle ride • Racing With Faith In Kentucky • FedEx and Salvation Army–“Building back better” • American Idol “Doing The Most Good” for tornado survivors • Spokane Corps raises leaders • ‘Wild, Wild West’ reaches its World Services goal • Smith Memorial Chapel dedicated at King’s Lake Camp
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July 15, 2011 New Frontier
NEWS BRIEFS OF THE WEST
What matters is…faith expressed in love (Gal. 5:6 MSG). SPOKANE, WASH.— With 12 potential candidates for officer training, the Spokane Corps, led by Karen Captain Kyle and Major Gleason Lisa Smith, formed a monthly Candidates Book Editor Club. Participants discuss books on Army history, theology, leadership, pastoral care, etc. The next book is One For All by Commissioner James Knaggs and Major Stephen Court. “It’s important for leaders to keep our minds challenged and alert so that we can do our very best in the calling God has for each of us,” said Lisa Smith. The group includes accepted candidate Brenda Crosby, youth leaders Jeremy and Andrea Reedy, and Corps Sergeant-Major Elaine Mansoor. IMPERIAL VALLEY, CALIF.—Undaunted by June’s 116-degree heat, El Centro Corps Officer Captain Jerry Esqueda took a youth team to Slab City, the site of an abandoned military base where about 70 homeless residents camp or sleep in old trailers. Knowing the people’s needs extend beyond physical requirements, the team not only offered water and food, but also prayer. This first-time event will not be the last. Plans are underway to further establish a relationship and meet needs. On their next trip, the team will donate a freezer full of ice. RENO, NEV.—The Reno Corps joined the festivities at Reno Rodeo’s annual “Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West.” Wearing cowboy attire, corps officers Majors Michael and Janene Zielinski, other Salvationists and friends manned the corps and thrift store parking lot entrances, requesting a $5 donation for rodeo parking. The corps raised $5,288, which went toward its World Services goal. Organized by Barbara Pengilley, young people’s sergeant-major, 31 volunteers worked 292 hours to help with the event. PORTLAND, ORE.—During her summer internship at the Portland Tabernacle Corps, Friends of Christ Session Cadet Melissa Xiong led a group to Portland’s Saturday Market to witness to shoppers. Xiong also presented “Hmong Culture” at a Home League education event July 13. Hmong are a minority ethnic group from Asia who pass down their history from generation to generation through legends and ritual ceremonies. Lt. Raymond and Major Nancy Dihle are corps officers. SAN FRANCISCO—San Francisco Magazine presented top honors to The Salvation Army in two categories of its annual readers’ poll: “Best Volunteer Action” and “Best Do-Gooder Action.” Jaime Smith, who joined Army staff two years ago with a challenge to revamp the volunteer program, said, “My biggest focus was to get the word out. The public needs to know we’re here and what we do.” Since then, The Salvation Army has successfully built partnerships with educational institutions and alumni chapters, churches, nonprofits, various companies and individuals. CHUUK—In the June 12 (Vol. 29, no. 10) edition of New Frontier, we mistakenly identified Captains Hermes and Rufina Otis as being from Chuuk, Marshall Islands. Chuuk is part of the Federated States of Micronesia, not the Republic of the Marshall Islands. New Frontier apologizes for this error and thanks Major Randy Mulch for pointing it out.
Seattle Temple Songsters hit the road n Group tours the Midwest. BY JOYCE JOHNSTON The Seattle Temple Songsters, led by Ken Lyons, recently flew to Oak Creek, Wis., for a whirlwind Midwest tour at the invitation of The Salvation Army Oak Creek Centennial Church. On the Saturday of a long weekend, the group sang for the community at a local mall and a large grocery store. Later, they performed at the church, along with the Oak Creek youth band. The next day, the songsters sang in the Sunday morning worship service before traveling by bus to the Oakbrook Terrace Corps in Chicago, arriving just in time to perform in a concert with that corps’ senior band, under the direction of well-known composer Bill Himes. The songsters’ repertoire included three secular songs to which Lyons gave Christian interpretations: “Fix You,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and “Keep Holding On.” The Oak Creek’s corps sergeant-
Songster Leader Ken Lyons conducts the Seattle Temple Songsters at the Salvation Army Oak Creek Centennial Church
major requested that “Fix You,” a hit by the English alternative band Coldplay, be included in the Sunday morning service. After the concert on Sunday afternoon, an Oakbrook Terrace soldier told Seattle Temple Songsters member Jim Miller that he’d heard many songster groups before, but had never felt the presence of the Holy Spirit like he did while listening to the
Seattle group. The songsters spent Monday enjoying downtown Chicago, before their return flight that evening. Seattle Temple Corps officers, Majors Dave and Linda Harmon, said, “We were very pleased by the opportunity afforded to the corps songsters to spread the gospel through singing in the Midwest.”
New home for veterans opens in Beaverton n Facility expands services of Portland’s Harbor Light Center. BY TERESA ENGEL The community of Beaverton, Ore., recently welcomed a new Salvation Army facility to its city: The Salvation Army Veterans and Family Center. Formerly the Harbor Light Center in downtown Portland, this new veterans’ facility will offer expanded services to more veterans and families in the Portland-Metro area and provide a home-like atmosphere where individuals can feel comfortable to grow. At a June 22 ceremony at the facility, Lt. Colonel Eda Hokom, Cascade divisional commander, and Major Don Gilger, Portland Metro coordinator and Cascade divisional secretary, dedicated the building. “I am delighted to dedicate this building in the name of God,” Hokom said, before inviting everyone outside for the ribbon cutting. “You can leave this place knowing there is a home for veterans!” About eight current U.S. military personnel attended. Two were extra special guests: one U.S. prisoner of war and one German prisoner of war from World War II. Both gentlemen live in the Portland Metro area and strongly support the work of The Salvation Army. The program began as the Veterans Emergency Transitional Shelter at the Harbor Light Center in downtown Portland. After much deliberation, The Salvation Army decided to move the veterans program out of downtown and into a new, bigger building in Beaverton. Originally designed as a senior residential facility, the building already had the components that make it an ideal housing facility for the Veterans and Family Center. The dedication ceremony featured a number of speakers: Hokom and Gilger; Lt. Emmanuel Masango, corps officer at Tualatin Valley Citadel; Rick Stoller, director of the Veterans and Family Center; Keith Scheff, Veteran Grant and Per Diem liaison for the veterans program; Vince Jones, a former client and now employee at the Veterans Center; Terry Dean, Portland Metro Advisory Board chair; and Shelley Wright of the Beaverton Chamber of Commerce. In his speech, Jones expressed appreciation for the support of this program: “It gave me the chance to find integrity and hope.” All of the speakers discussed the exciting future of this program and how this move opens the door for the expansion of services to more veterans and their families. The Portland Tabernacle Quartet performed during the ceremony.
SPRING FLING
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outside the future site of the Suisun City Kroc Center to show you what we’re doing and tell you all about the programs and services The Salvation Army will be running through this center,” Harvey said. Hundreds of attendees approached the information booth at the event to learn more about membership prices, sponsorship opportunities, fitness classes and schedules along with other life enrichment programs the Kroc Center will offer to benefit the residents of Suisun City and beyond. Even the kids received a Kroc Center construction hat so they, too, can take part in the creation of the multi-million dollar community center in their neighborhood.
Rick Stoller, Director of the Veterans and Family Center, along with Lt. Colonel Eda Hokom, Cascade Divisional Commander, and members of Beaverton Chamber of Commerce celebrate as the new facility is opened in Beaverton, Ore. Photo by Teresa Engel Little People’s Preschool • Seattle WA
CHILDCARE DIRECTOR The Little People’s Preschool and Childcare Center located in Seattle, WA is now accepting resumes for a FT Childcare Director. This position will manage all aspects of daily operations of the childcare center, including administration, personnel, property and program. This is an exempt level position with specific qualifications: AA degree in Early Childhood Education or Administration or Certified Child Development Associate, two years experience teaching infants through preschool aged children or supervisory experience in a licensed childcare center, must meet the criteria for approval by Washington State DEL licensing and be 21+. If interested please submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to: Assistant HR Director, Amanda Easton Amanda.Easton@usw.salvationarmy.org Clark County Administration • Clark County, NV
OWENS CAMPUS DIRECTOR JOB RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE: • Design and supervise the administration of all programs on the Owens Campus to include emergency shelters, transitional living shelters, mental health programs, vocational programs and food service. Develop, implement, and enforce program policies and procedures; evaluate program effectiveness and develop enhancements to improve overall operations and delivery of services. • Supervise, plan, assign, coordinate and monitor the work of all staff working on the Owens Campus; instruct and train staff in proper methods and procedures; monitor work in progress and upon completion to ensure compliance with established policies and procedures; conduct performance evaluations and provide hiring/firing and salary recommendations. • Supervise and monitor the maintenance of the Owens Campus buildings and equipment; ensure facilities are well maintained and in compliance with Salvation Army, local, state, and federal regulations. Operate programs within current approved budgets regularly to track income and expenses in order to insure timely compliance with same. Plan and implement changes necessary to operate within resources available. • Supervise and monitor the day-to-day operations of the staff and campus programs. • Develop and administer a volunteer staffing program networked through existing community affiliates and County Administration Office. Review, monitor, and report monthly statistics representing department services; ensures the accuracy and completeness of the same. • Plan and facilitate staff meetings for all employees; assist employees in resolving operational problems and respond to questions; ensure all employees maintain awareness and compliance of program policies and procedures. • Write and submit grant proposals for social service programs; process and implement contracts upon approval; ensure that department operations are in compliance with contract requirements. • Must be able to obtain State Group Home Licensing. For more information or to apply for this position contact: Lynn Gartman, Human Resource Supervisor lynn.gartman@usw.salvationarmy.org • 702-870-4430 x111
Doing the Most Good
PRATT
July 15, 2011 New Frontier
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parents, Pratt was the youngest of four children, who all became Salvation Army officers. He was commissioned in 1948, after serving in the British Navy during World War II. Following a corps appointment in England, Pratt served 16 years in editorial work. He moved from assistant editor of the international War Cry to editor of The Musician. Just prior to the 1965 international centennial congress, he became the Army’s director of information services and the Army’s official spokesman in London, collaborating in the production of numerous TV productions, film and radio documentaries about the Army. His two important administrative assignments in the West resulted in strong leadership, new programs and many creative endeavors, including the launch of New Frontier in February 1983. This brought to the Army a new publication and a unique form of communication throughout the West. Gradually, various territories in the nation and the Army world developed parallel publications. Shortly after printing the first edition of New Frontier, International Headquarters (IHQ) alerted Pratt that it had been published without IHQ approval. With Pratt’s lengthy service at IHQ, he quickly found a way to move around this problem and the paper continued on its publication schedule. Chosen as the paper’s first editor, I was honored that Pratt read every
word. He was our finest reporter, our best editor, and our most helpful critic. His comments were always positive. Pratt’s writing style and skills were of such excellence from a literary standpoint that even his letters were worth saving. Subtle humor, self-deprecation, strong commitment to his ethic and a sense of joy in the written word leaped from his tongue and spilled onto his pages. After Pratt retired in 1990 from appointment as territorial commander in the Canada and Bermuda territory, the West produced Pratt’s book, A Funny Thing Happened on…The Way!, on humor in The Salvation Army. During his 16 years at IHQ, Pratt maintained membership in the International Staff Band. Here, he moved from flag bearer to the second cornet section (following some hilarious incidents with the band on the march), and then became the band executive officer where his “pleasing platform manner and abilities as a speaker were highly valued,” Swanson said. Pratt’s voice fit the pulpit. His unassuming, unstuffy manner grabbed attention, focused thought processes in listeners, and achieved powerful communication. He provided the Army with a remarkable leadership style based on factors of trust and creativity. Pratt is survived by his wife, Commissioner Kathleen Pratt, a son, Graham, and a daughter, Avril.
Above: Commissioner Will Pratt interviews Junior Soldier Vita Yee. Below: A young Pratt carries the International Staff Band flag during the 60th anniversary celebration of the ISB at Buckingham Palace.
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Somebody’s prayin’ prayerPower Each week, corps and institutions in the territory receive a two-page Call to Prayer list inviting prayer for the 80 or so names of those who have requested Mervyn or whom we have Morelock prayer been advised are in need of Lt. Colonel prayer. It’s an extensive list, but, of course, we never can include all of the prayer concerns that exist in the territory. In studying the many requests that have been sent to over 320 praying congregations in the last few years, it is clear that there are many who faithfully pray for the individuals and concerns listed. Sometimes a prayer request continues to be included on the list though the prayer has been answered! What a joy to receive a note or phone call saying, “You can take me off the prayer request list now. I’m healed!” Have you ever personally requested prayer and been keenly aware that someone is praying for you? How does it make you feel? There is a strange kind of calmness, peace and strength that takes place when one is being specifically prayed for. Some time ago, a medical doctor made a study on the power and effect of prayer. In the study, some people who were ill were selected to be prayed for and a control group was not. Those chosen to intercede in prayer never knew the name of the one being prayed for, just a number. At the end of the study, the people receiving prayer had a much higher percentage of healing compared with those who were not. Prayer has a positive effect on people even when they do not know they are being prayed for! And so much more when they know their needs are being lifted up to God by hundreds of intercessors! Recent health concerns have given my wife and I new appreciation for the power of prayer and the blessing of having friends who are praying, resulting in a calming assurance and hope. Profound emotions go through your mind when you learn you have cancer. We are experiencing comfort knowing that people are praying. Prayer reduces the anxiety and fear and God seems to work in a special way— calming our spirit and quietly healing our wounds and illness. Recently, the Phoenix Citadel Songsters sang a song by Ricky Skaggs that is a testimony on how prayer affects us. It is our testimony. The following are excerpts from the song. “Somebody’s prayin’, I can feel it Somebody’s prayin’ for me. Mighty hands are guiding me To protect what I can’t see. Lord I believe, Lord I believe That somebody’s praying for me. I’ve been through the darkest caverns Where no light had ever shown. Still I went on ‘cause there was someone Who was down on their knees. And Lord, I thank you for those people Prayin’ all this time for me. Lord I believe, Lord I believe Somebody’s prayin’ for me…” Be that “somebody who is prayin”! There IS power in your prayer! To request prayer and view other prayer requests and praise reports visit saprayusw.com.
Wind power Have you seen them? They appear in the desert valley—monster wind turbines, seemingly as tall as the Space Needle, lined up like supersized pinwheels planted in a row, with their gigantic, futuristic propellers faithfully churning the wind to produce energy, an eco-friendly response to the continuing depletion of natural Victor resources. Even though the wind “blows wherever it pleases,” and we “cannot tell Leslie where it comes from or where it is going” Lt. Colonel (John 3:8), man’s ingenuity has harnessed the power of the wind to freely snatch kilowatts and megawatts of electricity from mid-air and create energy for our lives. Alternative energy! Yet, as impressive and dumbfounding as it is for the power of the wind to create electricity, it is nothing compared to the transforming powerful wind of God that, by faith, blows in the human heart, cleansing it and electrifying it for living. I am talking about the living Wind of God, aka God’s Holy Spirit, described in the Scriptures by the Hebrew word ruach in order to encapsulate and articulate the powerful work of this third person of the Godhead. Nothing replicates the power that surges up when he is in our midst. Unfathomable energy! We see him, this dominant Wind of God at the very beginning of Genesis, blowing over the face of the earth, creating this universe out of nothing, bringing order out of chaos and breathing life into humanity. See now! This dominant Wind of God is still working to bring order in the chaos of everyday living and to powerfully breathe a new creation in the hearts of those who respond to the gospel message. Pure supernatural energy! We discover him, this calming Wind of God moving over the earth in the days of Noah, causing the waters to subside, making way for the olive leaf symbol of peace, and setting the scene for the rainbow covenant of grace that generously
sharperFocus embraced every living creature in its eternal scope. Discover now! This calming Wind of God still moves in our generation, bringing peace in a turbulent world, reminding us of the new covenant of grace, salvation for whosoever believes. Definite renewable energy! We hear him, this powerful Wind of God, whirling around in the valley of dry bones in Ezekiel 37, bringing instant energy to an army of people who had literally lost the life and power to fight. Hear now! This powerful, whirling Wind of God is still the resurrection and the life-giving source of our strength in victory, and marvelously, he still has the power to energize us for battle against the enemies of God’s kingdom. Transforming energy! We feel God’s Spirit, like a mighty rushing wind, whipping up the energy of a band of forlorn disciples who feel his presence, discover his power, and are released for ministry and mission with such boldness that it results in the creation of the early church (Acts 2). Feel now! This same mysterious and majestic ruach, the Spirit of God, still blowing unseen among God’s people, in us, through us, yea, all over us with visible effects and huge impact in our global society. Unexplainable, dynamic energy! Don’t miss out! Be plugged in to God’s invigorating storehouse of spiritual energy and supernatural power. Make good and efficient use of this electrifying Wind of God, allowing him to flow at full power in your daily lives, sparking new flames of faith and recharging fading “lights of the world” (Matt. 5:14-16)! Pray that the unrestrained voltage of the Wind of God will shock us, stir us and once more shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land…all nations, and…fill this house with glory (Hag. 2:6-9). So that once more, sons and daughters will prophesy, young men will see visions, old men will dream dreams…and everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Acts 2: 17, 21). Pentecostal energy, or should I say, Holy, Wind Power!
‘The Happiest Place on Earth’? I recently spent 12 hours at the “Happiest Place on Earth.” At least, that is what the folks at Disneyland have been advertising for the past 56 years. However, I’m sure that some people would be quick to disagree with this statement by our friends at Disneyland. Nonetheless, I must admit that Pam and Ron I had happy moments with our grandchildren, Caleb and Liberty, while visitStrickland ing Disneyland. To see the sheer joy and Lt. Colonel excitement on their faces gave us a sense of happiness for the moment. Plus, we were building precious memories that will become priceless for a lifetime. Our grandchildren are truly a special gift and blessing from God. When I first heard Disney’s claim to be the “Happiest Place on Earth,” it caused me to consider, what does it mean to be happy or experience happiness? What does this word “happy” really mean? I went to our old friend, Mr. Daniel Webster, to find the answer. He defines “happy” as: (1) Favored by circumstances; lucky; fortunate; (2) having, showing, or causing a feeling of great pleasure, contentment, joy, etc; joyous glad, pleased; (3) exactly appropriate to the occasion; suitable and clever. While more definitions could be given, I believe we all get the meaning. If this is the earthly definition for “happy,” what would be
the heavenly definition? When looking at Scriptures for “happy,” the following verses come to mind: Happy are the people whose God is the Lord (Psalm 144:15b). And whoever trusts in the Lord, happy is he (Proverbs 16:20b). Wow! Heavenly happiness is synonymous with God being our Lord and our trust in the Lord. These Scriptures confirm that happiness from God’s perspective is eternal and not temporal, as it is with the secular definition of happiness. God’s happiness is not determined by worldly circumstances, but rather with the eternal reality that we are his people and we trust in him. God’s definition of happiness is not a fleeting happiness as is that of earthly happiness, but an abiding happiness no matter what the circumstances of life may be. As for my family and me, we choose God’s happiness over any earthly happiness. The truth of the matter is that Disney’s statement that they have “The Happiest Place on Earth” is nothing compared to the eternal happiness that we, his children, can enjoy both on earth and for eternity. So, brothers and sisters in Christ, be happy in the Lord.
Former columnist Terry Camsey promoted to Glory Major Terry Camsey was unexpectedly promoted to Glory on June 29, from his home in Mission Viejo, Calif. Born in Cheltenham, England, on June 23, 1935, he emigrated to the U.S. in 1972. In the Western Territory, he served as Golden State divisional music director from 1984–1986, before moving to territorial headquarters (THQ) as evangelism and programs secretary, holding that position until 1993. He was territorial corps growth secretary until 1995, when he transferred to the U.K. Territory, where he served as church growth and planned giving secretary. In 1998, he returned to the U.S. Western Territory as territorial vision and corps growth and men’s
program secretary. He retired in 2000. Earlier in his professional career, Camsey worked as a senior environmental health officer and a food services manager. Camsey was an accomplished musician and composer. For many years he played with the International Staff Band (ISB), where he was a noted cornet soloist. After moving to New York, he played with the New York Staff Band from 1976–1980. He and his wife, Beryl, attended the recent ISB120 anniversary celebrations in London.
In retirement he continued to pursue his interests of music and church growth theory. He soldiered most recently at the Tustin Ranch Corps, and prior to that at the Murrieta Corps, both in Southern California. From 1987–2009, he contributed a regular column, “The Body Builder,” to New Frontier. He authored the book, Slightly Off Center, published by Crest Books in 2000. Camsey is survived by his wife, Beryl, children Martin and Rosalind, two grandchildren and other relatives. The memorial service was held July 17 at the Tustin Ranch Corps.
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July 15, 2011 New Frontier
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K.I.S.S. and tell!
K.I.S.S. is an old acronym for “keep it simple, stupid,” purportedly originated by aircraft engineer Clarence “Kelly” Johnson. He Sharon was noted for demanding from Robertson Lt. Colonel his colleagues not only genius in innovative aircraft design, but also an extraordinary ability to so simplify their designs that the new aircraft could readily be repaired under battlefield conditions by an average aircraft mechanic with access to only a limited number of basic tools. Albert Einstein agreed with the concept, but stated it not quite so memorably: “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but no simpler.” For those of us who hope to win people to Christ, whether from the pulpit or through personal witnessing, being alert to the K.I.S.S. concept is essential. Too often we get so wound up in trying to convey our own words of wisdom to our people that we only confuse them. We need to learn to keep our message simple. Religion can be complex; wars have been fought between devout Christians over differences in religious dogma. Arguing over our differences, defending our distinctives, seeking to persuade others that our preferred Christian denomination is superior to others: these things cannot be allowed to interfere with the communication of the simple and straightforward words Jesus used in explaining to Nicodemus the way of salvation. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son” (John 3:16-18 NIV). Paul was equally clear when he wrote, that if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is
Terry Camsey—a headliner with your mouth that you confess and are saved. As the Scripture says, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Rom. 10:9-13 NIV). Children are often taught the ABCs of salvation: Ask God for forgiveness of sin; Believe in Jesus, God’s Son, as your Savior from sin; Confess him as Lord and master of your life. Those steps may not be easy for a person to take, but they are certainly clear and straightforward. Jesus has named us his ambassadors, his representatives on earth. He has been gracious to us in giving opportunities to study and understand his Word, so that we in turn might be able to point others to him. He has given us gifts and talents and expects us to use them to the honor and glory of God. He expects that we will be straightforward in telling others about the salvation provided in him; he expects that as teachers our message will be intelligible, appropriate to our audience, designed to cause our listeners to praise and honor him, not ourselves, our talents, our intelligence or our own abilities. Religion is complex. The way to salvation is simple, and should not be obscured by the eloquence of the speaker or by the speaker’s unacknowledged need to make people admire the speaker’s great spiritual insights. The way to salvation is simple, but should not be made to appear so simple that it can accept shortcuts, accommodations that would bypass the fact that salvation was secured for us through the sacrificial death of Christ on the cross. As messengers of Christ, we must be constantly on the alert, evaluating and re-evaluating our verbal communications, both formal and informal. We need always to ask ourselves: “Will the message I share today be a true, clear, concise declaration of the Word of God? Will it help others to know him better? When people leave this place, will it be with words of praise for God, not for the preacher?” K.I.S.S., and tell.
Major Terry Camsey received his promotion to Glory on June 29 following a massive heart attack. His death deprives us of a significant, creative and committed voice—a voice full of energy and humor, packed with a vision for the future of the Army. He and Beryl became auxiliary captains in 1984 and dropped the “auxiliary” to become captains in 1989. Ten years later they became majors during an appointment in the United Kingdom. Immediately on assuming officership, the Camseys began ministering to the health of the organization they loved so dearly. Terry spent the years of his officership steadfastly advocating strategies and tactics designed to ensure regular growth in Army programs. He was indefatigable in this quest. For 22 years, Terry wrote a regular column for New Frontier, called “The Body Builder.” It was in this space and in workshops throughout the territory that he promulgated the ideas behind the church growth movement as a means to reach people for Christ. He gave each column a title—a headline. Using his highly creative sense of humor, these column titles either brought a chuckle or a mystery. Both got the reader into his material. Some, you might remember: “Insanity or Pipe Dreams” or, an instrumentalist’s nightmare, “Out of breath.” Terry loved the Army all his life. His thoughts always focused on how to make it better and bigger. His music, both his compositions and his performance, seemed always motivated to inspire and enlighten listeners. He had something to say through his cornet. His musicianship, his effortless artistry as a cornet soloist reached deep within souls and filled hearts with
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a soaring awe. His remarkable ability to synthesize vast quantities of information caused his colleague of many years, Jeanette Bosanko, to Robert refer to him as “the great reductionist.” Docter During the recent celebraEditor-In-Chief tion of the International Staff Band (ISB) 120th anniversary, Terry was celebrated as an ISB bandsman of 12 years, a soloist of exceptional talent and as a composer of close to 100 pieces. He sat on the end chair and could play anything. At concerts, he was the headliner—the soloist. Recently, Terry completed a CD with his longtime friend, Ivor Bosanko, accompanying him. In it, he brings his unique, immediately identifiable style and tone to listeners. Time failed to work its worrisome way on his playing. The lyrical quality blends with intricacy as he performs a number of beautiful melodies along with several of his own cornet solos. For several years, he and Bosanko served together in the Irish Guards—their preferred band due to the quality of musical leadership. Bosanko recalls a number of humorous circumstances regarding Terry due to his height. There was nothing short about his instrumentalism, however, and he completed his career in the Guards as the principal solo cornetist—a position he also held in the Army’s ISB, Hollywood Tabernacle Band, New York Staff Band and any other corps in which he soldiered. The Army world will miss this Renaissance man—so brilliant, creative and good at everything.
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Knaggs said this focus on winning the world for Jesus means confronting other cultures to the extent that Jesus did. “When I drive by a mosque I wonder how I’m going to tell them about Jesus,” he said. “Yet I remember, Christ didn’t come into the world to condemn it but to save it. My role is to tell about the wonderful love that comes to mankind through Jesus and let people make their own decision. At the same time, Jesus didn’t live a lifestyle of segregating himself from others.” Third, One Army, Knaggs said grew from his perception that the Army has become fragmented. “Our administrative structure is no longer serving us well. It seems to me, it is due for a major overhaul,” he said. “We must
explore other models that lead us toward creative collaboration. Instead of commanders, we need architects.” In the forward to One Army, General Linda Bond writes that Knaggs and Court, “describe the solid faith that is ours. They passionately argue for a diverse unity that authentically expresses itself on local fronts with translocal missional unity. They present our ideal mission focus. They explain integrated mission. They look at Salvationists, as made in the image of God. And they celebrate global connectedness. It’s timely…and for the whole Army.” Knaggs said he wants the Army to be a movement—alive, vibrant and moving together in the same direction. “Let’s take
the streams of our service and make a river; we must be a force together,” he said. “We are not in the business of alienating anyone. It is better to be known for what we are for than what we are against.” Attendees of the recent commissioning weekend received a copy of the volume as a gift from the territory, and Knaggs said he hopes the text spreads. “This is not a classic,” Knaggs said, “but it is a useful tool for today. It’s not a hammer. It’s not intended to be judgmental of the past, but to look at ways to move forward and demonstrate Christ in a convincing way.” Purchase One for All (Frontier Press, 2011) on Amazon.
NOW AVAILABLE New Frontier is published twice a month by The Salvation Army USA Western Territory Commissioner James Knaggs, Territorial Commander Colonel William Harfoot, Chief Secretary We welcome submissions of news stories of interest to the Western Territory. If you have something you’d like to share, submissions can be sent electronically to: new.frontier@usw.salvationarmy.org or by postal service to;
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EDITORIAL STAFF Robert L. Docter, Editor-In-Chief • 562/491-8330 email: bob.docter@usw.salvationarmy.org Christin Davis, Managing Editor • 562/491-8723 email: christin.davis@usw.salvationarmy.org Karen Gleason, New Frontier Editor •562/491-8332 email: karen.gleason@usw.salvationarmy.org Buffy Lincoln, Associate Editor • 562/491-8329 email: buffy.lincoln@usw.salvationarmy.org Erica Andrews, Assistant Editor • 562/491-8334 email: erica.andrews@usw.salvationarmy.org LAYOUT & DESIGN/ADVERTISING Kevin Dobruck, Art Director • 562/491-8328 email: kevin.dobruck@usw.salvationarmy.org Adriana Rivera, Graphic Designer/Web coordinator • 562/491-8331 email: adriana.rivera@usw.salvationarmy.org CIRCULATION Arlene De Jesus, Circulation • 562/491-8343 email: arlene.dejesus@usw.salvationarmy.org new.frontier@usw.salvationarmy.org Member - Evangelical Press Association
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One for All
by Commissioner James Knaggs and Major Stephen Court
Contians three books: the global version of ONE DAY, the second edition of ONE THING, and the brand new final component of the Knaggs and Court trilogy ONE ARMY. With forwards by Generals Burrows, Rader and Bond, ONE FOR ALL describes ONE great salvation FOR ALL the world.
Published by Frontier Press 2011 ISBN: 978-0-976865-2-9
Order yours today from amazon.com