Diversity is great. Division is tragic. Uniformity is impossible. Unity is a gift.
CELEBRATING OUR 30th YEAR
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The Western Territory’s news source
— General Linda Bond
for 30 years
April 9, 2012 Vol. 30, No. 06
Sharing the vision
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n General Linda Bond’s March 2012 letter The other evening I watched a short DVD about the songwriter Fanny Crosby. The narration was interspersed with the singing of some of her songs. As a very young General Linda Bond child, she lost her sight because of the incompetence of one posing as a doctor. Though she never regained her physical sight, the Lord opened her spiritual eyes to see life from his perspective. Songs like “Blessed Assurance,” “To God be the Glory,” “He Hideth my Soul” and “All the Way my Savior Leads Me,” express this deep faith, resilience and incomparable hope. She has opened our eyes to see the richness of his grace. Sometimes we are limited by what we see around us. The media keeps us informed on a daily basis of all the events and issues that would cause us to despair. Add to this our own circumstances that often can paint a gloomy picture, and perhaps even our own failures would rob us of any positive perspective about the future. In the healing of Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52), the probing question of Jesus, “What do you want me to do for you?” forces us to think soberly about our deepest need. Bartimaeus responded, “I want to see.” Yes, he was talking about physical sight, but it is a great response for all of us, is it not? “Lord, I want to see people as you see them; I want to see the world from your point of view; I want to see life realistically but also optimistically; I want to see where you are working in this world and celebrate it; I want to see with eyes of faith, hope and love.” During recent travels, God opened my eyes many times. In the Norway, Iceland and The Færoes Territory I saw officers and Salvationists, who have a stirring vision of a vibrant, engaged Army, giving exceptional service to their communities. I visited India South Western and India South Eastern Territories in February. My physical sight took in the amazing crowds attending the events, the moving moments as many knelt at the mercy seat, the Army programs that minister in children's
Major Mark Nelson, Heidi Collar, Julie Treanor, and Major Man-Hee Chang exhibit the “Brewing Hope” coffee project of the West’s Adult Rehabilitation Centers Command at NSSDMC 2012. Photo by Ron Bawden
Majors Edward and Shelley Hill
Lt. Colonel Judy Smith
Frontlines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The West . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 The Nation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 The World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 From the Board Side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Sharper Focus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 From the Desk of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 The Spice Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 On the Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS PROGRAM SERVICES Major Edward Hill Territorial Secretary for Program, with the rank of Lt. Colonel
www.newfrontierpublications.org Facebook: tsanewfrontier
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Ready for mission, equipped for service BY CHRISTIN DAVIS Alongside baseball’s spring training in Glendale, Ariz., the 2012 National Social Services and Disaster Management Conference (NSSDMC) began with its own “season opener,” a welcome banquet for 722 delegates primarily from the U.S. and Canada wanting to be “Ready for Mission, Equipped for Service.” “This is a great, energizing experience of collaboration, and a combination of thoughtfulness, passion and commitment of the Army in serving the less fortunate,” said Commissioner William Roberts, national commander, who participated throughout the event with his wife, Commissioner Nancy Roberts, national president of women’s ministries. “We want to be worthy of those we serve, so we all strive for excellence.” Two evening plenary sessions focused on The Salvation Army’s social services and emergency disaster services (EDS), respectively. The final banquet recognized four territorial programs for excellence and achievement, which each received a NSSDMC, page 6
Leadership appointments announced
Territorial Commander Commissioner James Knaggs announced the following appointments:
On the web:
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n National conference targets social services and disaster management.
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Inside:
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WOMEN’S MINISTRIES Major Shelley Hill Territorial Women’s Ministry Program and Resource Secretary and Fellowship of the Silver Star Secretary, with the rank of Lt. Colonel
Majors John and Lani Chamness
CASCADE DIVISION Lt. Colonel Judy Smith Divisional Commander and Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries, following the retirement of current Divisional Commander Lt. Colonel Eda Hokom HAWAIIAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDS DIVISION Major John Chamness Divisional Commander Major Lani Chamness Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries Appointments effective June 27, 2012
At “The Hunger Games” premiere are (l-r) Envoy Gary Dobney, Brenda Zepeda, Sierra Allen, Louis Lujan. Photo by Gabriel Madrigal
Hunger is not a game n “The Hunger Games” premiere attendees receive free popcorn by supporting the Army’s emergency food pantry. Envoys Gary and Evie Dobney, in-charge at The Salvation Army Victor Valley (Calif.) Corps, joined forces with UltraStar Cinemas in Apple Valley, Calif., to take advantage of the premiere of the hit movie,
HUNGER, page 3
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Doing the Most Good
April 9, 2012 New Frontier
NEWS BRIEFS OF THE WEST
Your words all add up to the sum total: Truth. Your righteous decisions are eternal (Ps. 119:160 MSG). CASA GRANDE, ARIZ.—The Casa Karen Grande Corps held a Gleason Court of Honor and awards service March Editor 27 for Salvation Army troops and the after-school program. Eighteen children participated—the highest number ever. Destiny Guerra received her Commissioner’s Sunbeam Award; the first in the history of the corps. Captains William and Elizabeth Welch are the Casa Grande corps officers. SAN PEDRO, CALIF.—Twenty-two youth and adults from the San Pedro Temple Corps participated in the Long Beach Ronald McDonald House Charities 5K walk on April 1, raising funds for the newly constructed facility in Long Beach, Calif., which provides housing for family members of children undergoing cancer treatments. Corps member Stephanie Villanea, who survived childhood leukemia, organized the group and set a fundraising goal of $1,000, which the team—“Saved to Serve”—exceeded, raising $1,830. BELLINGHAM, WASH.—Eleven people served by The Salvation Army’s “I’ll Fight” street ministry recently attended corps’ meetings. Twice a month, corps members go out on the streets and hand out food, water, socks, hats and soap. “We are overwhelmed with the struggles, needs and suffering of the homeless and shelter poor, from the frail, thinly clad 70-year-old woman to a 4-year-old boy and his 3-year-old sister,” said Terry, a team member. “Both children were in Sunday school today.” Captains James and Beverley Lloyd are corps officers in Bellingham. PETALUMA, CALIF.—Petaluma Corps Officers Captains Scott and Barbara Schneider entered a drawing during The Salvation Army’s recent National Social Services and Disaster Management Conference in Glendale, Ariz., for a 6’ by 12’ support trailer, and won. Complete with up-to-date appliances, the trailer is valued at $13,000, and will assist in the community’s mobile feeding and emergency disaster services. ANCHORAGE, ALASKA—The Anchorage Assembly recognized the Anchorage Corps Community Center for its support of the Prudential Youth Leadership Institute, which offers young people a weeklong intensive leadership training during spring break. This is the third year The Salvation Army has hosted the event; Lts. Ryan and Marjorie Miller are corps officers. SAN FRANCISCO—Correction: In New Frontier’s March 23 issue ( Vol. 30, no. 5), Frontlines reported that Railton Place residents had participated in street outreach in the Tenderloin, where the facility is located. Currently, that outreach is in the planning phase, but Captain Lisa A. Smith, program administrator, hopes to soon begin this ministry. Railton Place residents did participate in San Francisco Harbor Light's street outreach, in anticipation of beginning their own program in the Tenderloin.
Nurturing Center to open n Spokane Salvation Army’s counseling program has a new space, new look and new name. BY HEATHER BYRD The Salvation Army in Spokane, Wash., will open its completely revamped and renamed counseling and visitation program, The Nurturing Center for Children and Families, May 16, during National Salvation Army Week. “This program provides us a unique ministry opportunity to help broken families come together,” said Captain Kyle Smith, corps officer with his wife Major Lisa Smith. Through its licensed counseling and visitation services, this ministry has addressed the social, emotional and mental health needs of children and families since 2008. With increased requests for counseling, the need for additional space led the Smiths to devise a plan for program expansion into a vacant space in an Army building. The project came to the attention of the local version of ABC’s show, “Extreme Makeover,” and produc-
ers selected The Salvation Army as a recipient of a makeover challenge. Similar to the national show, five local designers took on individual rooms, showcasing unique design abilities while making the rooms comfortable and kid-friendly. The resulting rooms feature toys, new books and special seating at perfect height for a child to sit and play. Local contractors renovated the space prior to the interior decorating. Fundraising contributions put the project in motion, with donations from Dr. Elizabeth Welty, Daniel Alsaker, Avista, Irene Horrigan, Carl and Lynn Lind and Richard Itami totaling $131,000. “With this beautiful new space providing a friendly and safe environment, we look forward to seeing even more families reunited, and creating great memories as they enjoy time together here,” Smith said. This year, The Salvation Army in Spokane expects to provide counseling and mental health services Gregg Johnson of LGD Design created this whimsical family visitafor more than 550 children and tion room at The Nurturing Center. families in crisis. Photo by Leslie Rogers
Kickin’ Krocs race in Portland n Salem Kroc Center group runs for health, energy and camaraderie.
Out of 30,000 runners at the Portland Shamrock Run, 28 were Kickin’ Krocs. Photo by Ruben Ponce
BY BARBARA RIVOLI The Kickin’ Krocs, a group of runners at The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Community Center in Salem, Ore., formed after Sarah Anderson, fitness attendant, recommended running as an activity for a mentally challenged member, hoping to build his selfesteem. Anderson and Barbara Rivoli, fitness and gym coordinator, helped Orlando Ageuro, 53, sign up to run a local 5k (3.1 miles) with them. Ageuro ran the route in less than 27 minutes. Tom Ferrin, associate director of development for The Salvation
Army’s Marion and Polk counties, put a photo of the trio and a brief summary of Ageuro’s accomplishment in the monthly newsletter. The excited response of members wanting to participate initiated the Kickin’ Krocs. Most recently, 28 runners from the group participated in the Portland Shamrock Run, which included over 30,000 participants. Anderson was one of them. “I started the team because I’ve always enjoyed running, but I didn’t have anyone to run 5ks with,” she said. “I thought getting our Kroc Center community involved would help people in the same boat as me. I’m so happy with how successful it has been and I’m looking forward to future runs, including the relay for life in July.”
Orange County antitrafficking program graduates survivors n First-ever ceremony recognizes selfsufficiency. BY RACHEL VO At the Network of Emergency Trafficking Services’ (NETS-OC) first-ever graduation ceremony March 17 in Anaheim, Calif., 16 female and male victims of human trafficking received certificates of achievement to recognize significant strides in achieving self-sufficiency. NETS-OC provides comprehensive case management services for victims of human trafficking currently living in and/or who were trafficked in Orange County. Since its establishment in 2009, NETS-OC has served over 50 victims of sex and labor trafficking and their families as part of the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force. The day began with a three-hour workshop for current clients to hear from other survivors of human trafficking. They discussed TRAFFICKING, page 9
Unity among diversity in Torrance The multiculturalism of the Torrance Corps may surprise people who have not attended a Sunday service there. Corps members represent many nationalities: Koreans, Filipinos, Caucasians, Indians and Latinos sit together in one row, while another row might contain African Americans, Swedes, Japanese, Jamaicans and Pacific Islanders. All come to worship the one God, creator of all. The soldier enrollment on March 12 reflected this unity among diversity, as Captains Neil and Rubina Navarro, corps officers, enrolled new corps members: Dan Inouye (adherent), Candi Overstreet (soldier), Saraj Samudrala (soldier) , and Mark Kyle (soldier). Photo by Pili Martinez
Doing the Most Good
April 9, 2012 New Frontier
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Southwest Division dedicates new Herberger Campus n A 78,000-square-foot campus in Phoenix, Ariz. BY MELISSA AXMAN The Southwest Division dedicated the new Herberger Campus, a 78,000-squarefoot complex including the divisional headquarters and the social services and shelter facilities, March 27, in Phoenix, in front of more than 450 people, including national leaders Commissioners William and Nancy Roberts and territorial leaders Commissioners James and Carolyn Knaggs. The Salvation Army first dedicated the Southwest Divisional Headquarters in March 1985. Over the past 26 years, the Herberger Campus has been a place of hope and salvation for thousands of individuals and families who have utilized the facility. Phoenix Vice-Mayor Michael Johnson spoke of the importance of the Army’s work in Phoenix and its ability to withstand the times of change over the years. “Lots of buildings have gone through here,” Johnson said, “but The Salvation Army stands strong.” Lt. Colonels Joe and Shawn Posillico, current divisional leaders, noted the Southwest Division's appreciation for the memory of Kax and Robert Herberger, who gave the funding that brought The Salvation Army to the campus. Kax Herberger was a member of the National Advisory Board and Phoenix Central Advisory Board. Former divisional commanders Colonel Bruce Harvey, now retired, and Lt. Colonel Doug Danielson, chief secretary in the Mexico Territory, shared history of the center in Phoenix and the development of the new facility. Lt. Colonels Doug and Rhode
Members of the Ka lei o ka Haku hula team
Photo by Kevin Pontsler
‘The lei of the Lord’ n Hawaiian and Pacific Islands divisional ‘hula halau’ glorifies God through dance. The outside of the new Herberger Campus in Phoenix
Danielson began plans for the new campus during their assignment with the division. During the dedication, the Southwest Divisional Band honored Lt. Colonel Rhode with an arrangement of one of her favorite songs, “My Tribute.” A plaque remembering Lt. Colonel Rhode, who was promoted to Glory in 2010, will be placed inside the new headquarters. Carolyn Knaggs, territorial president for Women’s Ministries in the West, read from I Corinthians 3. She spoke of the importance of laying the foundation of God in
Photo by Christin Davis
the Army’s work and new buildings. “The Salvation Army is way more interested in building lives than in building buildings,” James Knaggs, territorial commander in the West, said. “We build buildings so that we may build lives.” In closing, William Roberts offered a prayer of dedication. The wall inside the foyer displays the words from I Corinthians 3:11: For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.
HUNGER
The teams are from left to right: Santa Ana Temple, LA Central (divisional winners), Pasadena Tabernacle. Photo by Jonathan Delgado
No Bible Bowl...no way! n Southern California Division holds Bible Bowl playoffs in an “off” year. BY CARI ARIAS Southern California youth are so enthusiastic about Bible Bowl that they held their own playoffs, undeterred by the fact that the Western Territory is not sponsoring the event this year due to Boot Camp and The Gathering. The competition began with eight teams studying the books of Hebrews, 1 Peter, and 2 Peter. Three teams reached the divisional playoff March 10 at the Whittier Corps: the Los Angeles Central team placed first, continuing a winning streak of several years. Pasadena Tabernacle took second place, and Santa Ana
Temple claimed third. Players (ages 12-18) from all three teams displayed sportsmanship, encouraging members of opposing teams as well as their own members, as they answered questions and recited lengthy verses verbatim, demonstrating the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives as they displayed what they had been studying. Territorial leadership approved a Territorial Bible Bowl competition for 2013. Interested teams can purchase study materials from Acme Quiz (acmequiz.com) based on the book of Matthew. The Western Territory will be adopting the new Acme Quiz buzzer system, and recommends that divisions and individual teams do the same.
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“The Hunger Games,” by sponsoring a food drive March 23-30 to combat hunger in the area. It brought in 192 items and $529 for the emergency food pantry at the corps. The idea was the brainchild of Brenda Zepeda, a theater manager. “When UltraStar began thinking of sponsoring a food drive during the opening week of ‘The Hunger Games,’ I immediately thought of The Salvation Army,” said Zepeda, who had worked with the Army on a previous dinner and movie event. UltraStar promoted the event in local media, in advertisements and in its lobby. Moviegoers who contributed a food item (or a monetary donation) received a voucher for free popcorn. The Salvation Army set up a table, a collection barrel and a Red Kettle stand in the lobby. “What a fantastic opportunity to provide a way for community members to help their hungry neighbors,” Gary Dobney said. “And for one whole week a uniformed Salvationist was allowed to not only ring a bell in the lobby, but to share the love of Jesus with those we engaged in conversation.” The Salvation Army also distributed 150 copies of the Easter War Cry with an invitation to attend Easter services. “UltraStar hopes to continue to partner with The Salvation Army in the future to help those in the Victor Valley who need the most help,” Zepeda said. Envoys Dobney are accepted candidates of the Disciples of the Cross Session of cadets, and will report to the College for Officer Training at Crestmont in August.
BY KEVIN PONTSLER “Ka lei o ka Haku” (“the lei of the Lord”), the Hawaiian and Pacific Islands divisional “hula halau” (or “hula group”) ministry, includes 13 members representing corps from Oahu, Maui and the “big island” of Hawaii. In 2006, then-Major Dave Hudson, divisional commander at that time, initiated the halau to “share God’s love, lead others to Jesus and be a blessing through their worship in hula.” Former Divisional Music Director Crystal Nakamaejo chose the halau’s name. "A lei is an adornment of many different flowers,” Nakamaejo said. “In Hawaiian culture, children are often referred to as the flowers or ‘pua,’ and when combined, all of these pua make a beautiful lei. In the same way that children are a product of their parents, we, as children of God, are products of his love. Our lei is comprised of halau members who dance hula as worship unto our Haku [Lord].” Over the years, the halau has performed at divisional events including family camp, women’s ministries camp and youth councils. It has traveled to the mainland, touring in Florida with the Western Territorial Songsters in 2010. In June, the group will perform at The Gathering in Pasadena, Calif. “For me, it’s the bond that we have,” said halau member Klazarine Matto. “It’s good to know that you have Christian sisters, not just when you need them, but all the time.” The group gathers once a month at the Kauluwela Corps to practice, which for some includes flying in the night before, bunking at the home of the current leader, Dasia Rodriguera, and flying back to be at their home corps on Sunday morning. “I love dancing hula,” said Kylie Leong, another group member. “I grew up dancing hula—who doesn’t want to do what they love?” The hula is intended to glorify God and not man. “I think when we perform—or whenever any ministry performs—they [the audience members] feel something,” Rodriguera said. “That’s the power of the Holy Spirit; they may not know it, but they have a feeling.”
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Doing the Most Good
April 9, 2012 New Frontier
Domestic violence shelter turns 30 n Florida center provides safe haven for abuse victims. For three decades, Pasco county survivors have sought refuge at The Salvation Army’s domestic violence shelter in a six-week program to end the abuse. Since it opened its doors in 1982, The Salvation Army’s domestic violence shelter in Florida has helped more than 10,000 women, children and men change their lives. It has empowered, protected and guided them through their challenges. As one of Florida’s longest-running domestic violence shelters, the 32-bed facility is a 24-hour shelter for Pasco County residents who are fleeing an abuser. In 2011 alone, the shelter served 193 women and 178 children, and received 2,388 calls to its hotline. For women residents like Elizabeth, The Salvation Army shelter was a safe haven for her and her six children. Elizabeth stayed at the shelter twice, once in summer 2010 and another in fall 2011, both times fleeing her now ex-boyfriend. “When I came here I felt like I was part of their family,” she recalled. “They gave me support, resources and just listened.” Elizabeth is now out of the shelter and is six hours away from receiving her nursing degree. “I don’t know what I would have done without this place—this light,” she said. “The women who work here are called to do this and they help people like me take the same away.” Melynda’s road to recovery is just beginning. Her month-long stay at the shelter has been filled with court, doctor and counseling appointments. She came to the shelter after being released from a local hospital. Her ex-boyfriend had shoved her, causing her to hit her head on the ceramic tile, and then beat her. “I could only see the blur of an open door,” she said. “So I ran as fast I could out of there. I know he would have killed me.” When asked about her eye, she calmly said, “It could be worse. I am alive.” Melynda heard about The Salvation Army’s domestic violence program while recovering from the attack. “There are so few places people can go to get this help,” she said. “I am so grateful.” On March 30, the shelter celebrated its anniversary with a dinner and silent auction that showcased residents’ art therapy. To learn more about the program visit salvationarmyflorida.org.
Program receives $150,000 grant The Salvation Army of Battle Creek, Mich., received a $150,000 grant from the WK Kellogg Foundation. The new funding will be used over the next two years to assist local families through the “Healthy Kids Build Strong Families” initiative. Major Thomas E. Riggs, commanding officer of The Salvation Army in Battle Creek is thankful for the generous donation. "To help children succeed in health, education and life is one of the greatest gifts you can give to anyone,” he told the Battle Creek Enquirer. “This grant ensures that children in our community have the tools and skills they need to achieve great things in Calhoun and Barry counties." The donation will also help fund The Salvation Army Outdoors (TSAO) summer educational program and Wild On Wednesdays (WOW) character-building program. These activities offer working families the opportunity for their child to enjoy a fun, safe and educational environment. The WK Kellogg Foundation, established in 1930, supports children, families and communities. Grants are concentrated in the United States, Latin America, the Caribbean and Southern Africa.
Salvation Army surveys its youth programs nationwide n “Growing Up in a Downturn” reveals increase in demand for youth services. Over the course of the economic recession, The Salvation Army witnessed an upward trend of people in need, providing assistance to 30.2 million Americans in 2010, compared to 28.9 million in 2007. To better understand the recession’s true impact on America’s youth, the Army conducted an internal study, “Growing Up in a Downturn,” which surveyed more than 100 Salvation Army youth programs in cities across the country. In 2011, 81 percent of Salvation Army youth programs saw an increase in demand for youth services, compared to 75 percent in 2008. Fifty-six percent of Salvation Army youth programs are at or beyond capacity. As a result, resources, including funding and staffing for these programs, are stretched to provide the same level of assistance as before the recession. “There has been a lot written about child poverty, and we know from our own numbers that more and more people are coming to us for help,” Commissioner William Roberts, national commander, wrote in a blog for The Huffington Post. “Some Salvation Army programs were able to accommodate the increased demand from families and youths coming through their doors. Some saw donations grow and were able to expand programs and services, grow staff and increase volunteer levels to meet the growing need...Some Salvation Army youth programs had to make hard decisions and figure out where to best direct donations and resources.” The survey also looked at the impact of the recession, first hand, from the youth who are living through it every day. The most requested services and activities by youth include tutoring, sports, summer camp, music—and dinner. In 2011, one-third of Salvation Army youth programs saw a reduction in giving. And since 2008, 41 percent of Salvation Army youth programs have
For youth in America, The Salvation Army operates: • 1,232 corps community centers • 371 community centers, boys/girls clubs • 145 child day care centers • 563 group homes • 45 camps been forced to cut back services or close programs completely due to demand surpassing funding. “Overall the needs of our youths and their families have increased dramatically, and the decrease in donations has made it truly difficult to serve them in the same ways as we did before,” said Major Anthony Baso, corps officer in Kingsport, Tenn. Yet, 62 percent of Salvation Army youth services saw increases in volunteerism, and with continued support from community members, 92 percent of Salvation Army programs expect to
Are you “Doing the Most Good”? In celebration of National Salvation Army Week, May 14-20, the Army wants to see and hear how you are giving back to others in need. Starting April 2, you can send a photo of yourself volunteering and “doing the most good” along with the details of who, what, where, when and why. Examples include volunteering at a local shelter, donating canned goods or cleaning up in your community. To send your photo and story, tweet it out with the hashtag #IDoTheMostGood or share it on The Salvation Army’s Facebook wall at facebook. com/salvationarmyusa with the words “I Do the Most Good” in your post.
Photos by John Docter
meet the increased demand for as long as the children come to the Army for assistance. As Roberts wrote, “No child deserves to grow up without hope for a better tomorrow.” Visit salvationarmyusa.org to donate to Salvation Army youth programs and to read the full “Growing Up in a Downturn” study.
Biloxi Kroc teaches savvy shopping n 4-class series offered on couponing The Mississippi Gulf Coast Kroc Center in Biloxi, Miss., is teaching its community the tips and secrets to extreme savings with Savvy Shopper Couponing 101, a four-class series in March. A savvy shopper expert, Stacy Crandle, who with coupons spends an average of $15 a week on groceries for her family of five, is taking the students through the steps they need to save big. The series fee is $25 for Kroc Center members and $35 for non-members, and a meal and supplies are included in each class. Each session covers a different topic: coupon basics, binder prep, biggest bang for your buck,
Stacy Crandle, case manager for the Biloxi Area Command, instructs the couponing class.
and contest results. These saving and money stretching tips are also taught to all clients that The Salvation Army sees through its traditional social service programs.
Doing the Most Good
April 9, 2012 New Frontier
Flooding strikes Fiji again n The Salvation Army responded with evacuation centers and immediate needs. BY CHRISTINA TYSON, MAJOR Salvation Army staff and volunteers worked in flood-ravaged Fiji as the island nation braced itself for a tropical storm predicted to intensify to cyclone force. A state of natural disaster was declared for most of the country’s western area after heavy flooding killed four people and forced thousands to evacuate. Army facilities in Lautoka and Nadi became evacuation centers and people took refuge in the Army’s premises in Ba. Army staff and volunteers were deployed to assist in the emergency situation. “The people of Fiji were already suffering after January’s floods,” said Major Iliesa Cola, divisional commander in Fiji. “These floods are much worse.” Cola said there is continuous heavy rain and strong winds all around the country, with power cuts and no water supply on the western side of the main island of Viti Levu. “This natural disaster will have terrible economic implications for our country, but at the moment our priority has to be for people’s safety and well-being,” Cola said. “Food, clothing, clean water and shelter are the immediate needs.” The Salvation Army in New Zealand
A man walks through a flooded street in Suva, Fiji.
launched an appeal to raise funds for the Fiji flood effort, requesting financial assistance only, not donations of food or clothing, so the Army can assist the struggling economy by purchasing local goods to meet people’s needs. Salvation Army corps across New Zealand continue to collect “love offerings” during Sunday services to add to the Fiji Flood Appeal.
n World-renowned artist paints Burrows’ portrait for the second time.
VISION
Photo courtesy of International Headquarters
“We greatly value the support and prayers of those outside the country to strengthen our efforts,” Cola said. “It is already clear that a long-term response will be needed in those areas most affected. We will need all the assistance we can get at this time.” Donations can be made online at salvationarmy.org.nz. Please specify that the donation is for the “Fiji Flood Appeal.”
Melbourne 614 Corps. Mendoza’s first portrait of Burrows was completed at the beginning of 1993 to mark the General’s retirement. The two had met at a lunch at Buckingham Palace
as guests of Queen Elizabeth II, and have been firm friends since. As one of the world’s leading portrait painters, Australian-born artist June Mendoza has completed portrait commissions for royalty, foreign dignitaries and arts, music and business figures. Her works include five portraits of Queen Elizabeth II as well as portraits of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother; Diana, Princess of Wales; Earl Mountbatten of Burma and Baroness Margaret Thatcher. The ceremony concluded with Commissioner Aylene Finger, territorial president of women’s ministries, sharing a prayer and reading a message from Mendoza, which stated that Burrows was a “remarkable woman.” Guests included Melbourne’s Lord Mayor Robert Doyle, former Victorian state premiers Jeff Kennett and Joan Kirner, Gordon Darling (former chairman of the National Gallery of Australia) and chairperson of the Australia Southern Territorial Advisory Council Margaret Jackson.
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homes, hospitals, to the marginalized women. I saw how important it is to see the individual in the context of thousands of Salvationists milling around you. Then just recently we held a Zonal Conference in New Zealand for Army leaders in the South Pacific and East Asia area. The most internationally diverse of all the zones, I looked out on officers representing Salvationists in Korea, Japan, The Philippines, Taiwan, Papua New Guinea, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga, Mongolia, Solomon Islands, Indonesia, Hong Kong and Macau. Yet we have to see this international Army with our spiritual sight. We talked a lot about our dif-
Elsewhere in the world UNITED KINGDOM—Eleven young people from Salvation Army corps across the Central South Division painted, wallpapered and decorated the homes of three single moms in the Woking area. The group stripped wallpaper in one house, painted a bedroom in another and refurbished the bathroom in the last. Led by Divisional Youth Officer Nathan Loxley, the communal project was part of the division’s Youth Action Day, demonstrating the character of faith displayed through love, care and concern for others. From Salvationist UK
New portrait released of General Eva Burrows (Ret.)
BY MAL DAVIES, CAPTAIN A new portrait of General Eva Burrows (Ret.) by renowned artist June Mendoza, was unveiled March 27 during a ceremony at The Salvation Army’s iconic 69 Bourke Street property in Melbourne, Australia. At the unveiling ceremony, Australia Southern Territorial Commander Commissioner Raymond Finger especially thanked the anonymous donor who sponsored the portrait and was present at the unveiling. He reminded guests that Burrows was the 13th international leader of the Army and held office from 1986–93, becoming popularly and affectionately known as “the people’s General.” The retired General said she was honored to have Mendoza complete a second portrait of her. She added that it was fitting to have one portrait hanging in the U.K., representing her years of service there, and now one in Australia, at 69 Bourke Street, where she is currently an active member of
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ferent cultures, wore different uniforms, needed translation to understand and to be understood, and gave witness to our own unique backgrounds. Yet here we were, Salvationists from all over the world, proclaiming the name of Jesus, kneeling together in prayer, serving with hearts for the lost, desiring to be the people God raised us up to be and committed to fulfilling his mission. We were one. I have no idea of the particular situation of everyone who receives this letter and I certainly don't have personal knowledge of where you worship. But I know I am writing to a majority of Salvationists. When I share this global vision, I am conscious that it must also work on a personal and
CANADA—The Salvation Army Regina (Saskatchewan) Waterston Centre received over $500,000 in federal funding from Homelessness Partnering Strategy to house women in the Regina Drug Treatment Court program in a new Salvation Army women’s facility. After the women complete the course, the Army will help them transition to independent living. At the end of two years, the Army will evaluate the program to determine if providing a supervised residence increases the rate of graduating women. From leaderpost.com SOUTH AFRICA—The Salvation Army’s Southern Africa Territory is sponsoring a project to provide blankets throughout the country to the destitute and homeless during the cold weather season. Because the need is great and the area large, the territory cannot generate enough blankets to meet the demand, so it launched a public appeal. Cash donations can be made through the territory’s website, salvationarmy. org.za. From salvationarmy.org.za FRANCE—In late March, The Salvation Army joined over 30 other groups to petition the state on the issue of right to shelter, a recognized fundamental freedom in France. The group met at the Collective of Associations United in Paris, before the Council of State, to challenge the non-compliance of the issue and to firm up its adherence. All supporters of the initiative brought a stone to help build a house, which will serve as a symbol of the mobilization. From armeedusalut.fr SINGAPORE—On March 16, in conjunction with Channel News Asia's program "Invest In Me," The Salvation Army’s Praisehaven Family Thrift Store at the Upper Bukit Timah Road (S) site revealed its new look and presented a fashion show choreographed by Daniel Boey. From salvationarmy.org/singapore
The General travels through crowds to a public meeting in India. Photo courtesy of International Headquarters
local level. Diversity is great. Division is tragic. Uniformity is impossible. Unity is a gift. So wherever you find yourself today, may your eyes be wide open to what you, and your corps, can do when we move
forward together into the world of the hurting, broken, lonely, dispossessed and lost, reaching them in love by all means, with the transforming message of Jesus, bringing freedom, hope and life.
INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS (LONDON)—The Salvation Army’s international website is revamped, with a more contemporary design and easier-to-find content. Visit salvationarmy.org to see its new look.
PAGE 6—NEW FRONTIER • April 9, 2012
National Social Service and Disas NSSDMC from page 1
“Intentionally, desiring to fulfill the
$5,000 program grant, and eight individuals for excellence in social work or disaster management, “Sleeves Rolled Up” (see sidebar). mission of The Salvation Army, social “All of us working together make the Army what it is,” said Major Betty Israel, national social services secretary. “Together, we come to the public table services and disaster management at the federal and state level; thank you for what you do.” Testimonies showcased the power of The Salvation Army in individual lives, personnel work ‘hand in hand’ in the including that of Jeff Taylor who retired as a wealthy Wall Street securities trader at 29, but by 33 was living under a bush on the streets of Phoenix. He committed crimes to maintain a drug addiction, and went in and out of jail before a proclamation and demonstration of judge mandated him to the Phoenix Harbor Light. “I felt a sense of relief when I arrived, like I’d come home,” he said. Taylor went on to influence legislation in the gospel.” Arizona that releases nonviolent inmates 90 days early for treatment. For the first time, the triennial National Social Services Conference included —Major Darryl Leedom, national director for public Disaster Management personnel and presenters, especially highlighting the policy and liaison for emergency disaster services Army’s relationship with FedEx in one plenary. “In The Salvation Army, I see a bunch of doers,” said Shane O’Connor, program advisor for FedEx Global Citizenship. “It is a great example for people to follow.” In the past 11 years of its partnership with the Army, FedEx has donated 14 canteens, valued at about $100,000 each. O’Connor announced a donation of the 15th canteen to the Golden State Division in the Western Territory. Commissioner Territorial Program Excellence and Achievement William Roberts, national commander, presented O’Connor with a Sleeves Rolled Up award. The Chicago Metropolitan Division Child Care Programs in Chicago, Ill. Emergency Mobile Kitchen held a drawing for a 6’x12’ support trailer (retail value $13,000), which was (Central) won by Captain Barbara Schneider of the Petaluma Corps in the West’s Del Oro Division. The Anew Center: Domestic Violence and Rape Crisis Program in Jamestown, Michael “Mickey” C. Caison, disaster relief team leader for the North American Mission Board, urged at N.Y. (East) tendees to recognize the value of partnerships with faith-based community groups in providing for the needs The Red Shield Family Lodge in Atlanta, Ga. (South) of people in disaster. “Sometimes Jesus used his hands, voice, objects, thoughts and power as God, and then The Haven: West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Healthcare Center in Los there were times he used volunteers,” Caison said. He read the story of the paralytic, whose friends opened Angeles (West). the roof of a house to present him to Jesus in Luke 5. “We need to be like these friends who had a conviction Individual Excellence in Social Work that Jesus could help their friend and did whatever it took to take him to him,” Caison said. “The world needs Louise Simons, divisional social services secretary for the Northern Division the hope that comes with meeting Jesus.” And to be successful, he said, we must cooperate, communicate and (Central) coordinate. Florence Rhue, director of children’s services for The Salvation Army in Eastern Beyond the plenaries, learning was key to NSSDMC. “Most importantly,” Roberts wrote in the conference Pennsylvania and Delaware Division (East) welcome letter, “the paramount goal is to refine skills and deepen commitment for the life-changing work Deronda Metz, director of social services for the Charlotte, North Carolina in which The Salvation Army is engaged.” Ninety-three different workshop and networking sessions were area command (South) available, ranging from combating child hunger, to compassion fatigue, to expanding homeless solutions and Lawrence Williams, executive director for the Army’s Honolulu Addiction services. Program tours in Phoenix, including of the soon-to-open South Mountain Kroc Center, exemplified Treatment services (West) the Army’s mission and work. Sleeves Rolled Up In one workshop, Cindy Sutter-Tkel, Golden State divisional social services director, discussed understandJim Daly, EDS volunteer in Minnesota (Central) ing and responding to the needs of international families. “Cultural competence isn’t that you have it or you Allister MacLeod, EDS volunteer in Massachusetts (East) don’t,” she said. “It’s a continuum.” She suggested following the National Association of Social Workers’ 10 Carlene Campbell, EDS volunteer in the Arkansas-Oklahoma Division (South) standards for cultural competence (see naswdc.org/practice) in both personal and professional life. David Sherman, director of EDS at White Mountain Outpost, Ariz. (West) Worship was a critical component of NSSDMC, with the Sunday worship service led by Western delegates. Lt. Col. Joe Posillico, Southwest divisional commander, presided; Captain Monica Covert, from the Phoenix ABOUT THE WEST’S RECIPIENTS: Citadel Corps, led the call to worship; and Lt. Mike O’Brien, Flagstaff corps officer, led praise and worship. Major Denise Hawk, South Mountain Kroc Center corps officer, presented Scripture in dramatic fashion, The Haven: West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Healthcare Center in Los and Lt. Lisa Barnes, Southwest divisional youth secretary, gave a compelling testimony of being denied love Angeles provides services to 270 homeless veterans, many with a dual diagby her mother, but receiving it in the Army. Commissioner James Knaggs, territorial commander in the West, nosis of mental health and substance abuse, each day. The high quality of serpreached from Mark 12. vices have increased The Salvation Army’s visibility, facilitating and fostering "In this season of Lent, we acknowledge that the mark of a Christian is sacrifice," Knaggs said. "We love community relations, as well as support from foundations and corporations. ourselves less, God more, and others in between." He said that our love should be about confidence, compeMost recently, the Haven was nationally recognized for impletence and character. menting evidence-based programming and developing best practices modalities. “We have something to offer in this Salvation Army,” Knaggs said. “We’re loved to love.” And that begins, he said, with confidence in our own salvation. Lawrence Williams is the executive director for The A focus on theology continued in the final breakfast session at NSSDMC, featuring Dr. Ron Sider, profesSalvation Army’s Honolulu Addiction Treatment Services sor of theology, holistic ministry and public policy, and director of the Sider Center on Ministry and Public (ATS). Beginning in 1982 as an outreach counselor, Williams Policy at Palmer Theological Seminary. Sider also serves as president of Evangelicals for Social Action and has became executive director. Under his leadership, ATS became published 31 books. a nationally accredited provider of substance abuse and treat"I believe in the last 125 years The Salvation Army has done better than any other organization in holdment services in 1990. He revised and upgraded the manual ing together evangelism and social action," Sider said. "But I also know you continue to wrestle with this. We of policies and procedures, and provided staff with substantial must ensure, unlike so many in the Christian church, that we do not tear apart word and deed." training based on the Commission on the Accreditation and Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) operating standards, earning He spoke on six aspects to consider in maintaining the relationship between evangelism and social action: ATS its first CARF accreditation in 1991, and successfully achievsin, nature of persons, the gospel definition, salvation, Jesus, and eschatology. ing three-year CARF renewals to the present. ATS is licensed for "If sin is both personal and social, if persons are body and soul entities meant to live in interdependence, 66 residential beds and annually provides more than 1,200 clients if the gospel message is the fantastic news that the kingdom has begun, if salvation transforms relationships with quality treatment and recovery services. with God and others in the church body, if Jesus is the redeemer who intends to restore creation, then Christians should not try to escape the world, but change it," Sider said. "We change it by leading people to Christ David Sherman is a spirit-filled ministry leader at The Salvation Army and by changing unjust social structures. We must love the whole person the way Jesus did.” White Mountain Outpost in Lakeside, Ariz., since 2000. Following the Musical guests throughout the conference included: The Southwest Divisional Band, Southwest Division 2011 Wallow Fire, the largest in Arizona history, Sherman led all aspects Youth Singing Company, the Glendale Deer Valley High School Drum Line, and the Foothills Baptist Church of the response as incident commander. He also serves as chaplain for the Linden Fire Department, an agency representative for the Northeast Choir and Orchestra. Arizona United Way board, a member of the Governor’s Arizona Regional In the last remarks of the conference, Kevin Thompson-Hooper, chairman of the National Social Services Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster, co-chair of the Navajo County Commission and territorial social services secretary in the South, thanked Israel for her service to the Army as Community Network Team and chairman of the FEMA Navajo County she anticipates retirement. “I like to think that I have a good heart, because of the love of Christ that fills it to Emergency Food and Shelter Board. help the least,” Israel said. “And I know you all have the same heart as well.” The 2014 NSSDMC will be held in Atlanta, Ga.
2012 NSSDMC award recipients:
“The challenging economic times in which we live, as well as the frequency of national and local disaster situations, confront Salvat
delegates from across the country and Canada, as well as international delegates from Australia, England, Mexico, Haiti and the Car
service. We experienced a sense of God’s approval upon the celebration and training that was central to the conference, and I belie
—Major Betty Israel, nation
April 9, 2012 • NEW FRONTIER—PAGE 7
ter Management Conference 2012
Clockwise from top left: Attendees admire a massive quilt from the anti-trafficking office in the Southern Territory, made to honor victims of violence. Lawrence Wiliams accepts an award for individual excellence in social work for the Western Territory from Commissioners Nancy and William Roberts, national leaders. Major Betty Israel, Lt. Col. Joseph Posillico, and Major Darryl Leedom lead the first plenary, the conference’s “season opener.” Kev Cavallero and Major Ron Toy discuss emergency hydration packs in the exhibit hall. The Southwest Division Youth Singing Company performs. Photos by Ron Bawden
tion Army ministries with increased demands upon resources, creativity and personnel. The 2012 conference provided a means for
ribbean, to acquire new skills, share information and develop the resource networks that will enlarge and improve our capacity for
ve that he will continue to take pleasure in the conference-wide commitment to truly be ‘Ready for Mission: Equipped for Service.’”
nal social services secretary
PAGE 8—NEW FRONTIER • April 9, 2012
THE GATHERING THE GATHERING JUNE 7 - 10, 2012 PASADENA, CA
{
And when two or three of you are together because of me, you can be sure that I'll be there. — Matthew 18:20 JUNE 7 - 10, 2012
}
PASADENA, CA
June 3 6:30pm
SunDAY Pre-Gathering Concert Pasadena Tabernacle Youth Chorus {Pasadena Tabernacle Corps}
June 4 - 6 9:00am
MonDAY — WeDneSDAY Boot Camp
June 7 9:00am 10:00am 1:30pm
ThurSDAY Boot Camp The Gathering registration opens Officers’ Councils* {First united Methodist Church} reception The Gathering Main Meeting refreshments & Concerts Prayer Gathering
5:30pm 7:00pm 9:00pm 9:00pm
June 8 FriDAY (ConTinueD) FriDAY Korean Prayer Gathering 5:30pm reception The Gathering Main Meeting Prayerwhen Gathering two or three 7:00pm And of you are together 9:00pm refreshments & Concerts recovery Ministry Breakfast because of me, you can be sure I'llGathering be there. {hilton hotel} 9:00pm that Prayer 8:00am Officers’ Kids’ Breakfast — MatthewJune 18:20 10:00am Seminars 9 SATurDAY 5:30am Korean Prayer Gathering 10:30am Commencement 7:00am Prayer Gathering {First united Methodist Church} 10:00am Family Gatherings - Women’s Tea, 12:30pm Silver Star Banquet* Men’s Rally, Kids’ Carnival {hilton hotel} 1:00pm encore! {Brookside Park} 1:00pm encore! 1:00pm Latino Praise and Worship Meeting 1:30pm Seminars 1:30pm Seminars 3:00pm Musical – “Spirit! ii: empire” 3:00pm Musical – “Spirit! ii: empire” Divisional Gatherings – Alaska, 3:00pm Divisional Gatherings – Golden State, 3:00pm Cascade, Del Oro, Hawaiian and Pacific Sierra Del Mar, Southern California islands, intermountain and northwest and Southwest 5:00pm Long Service Dinner* 5:30pm reception 7:00pm The Gathering Main Meeting {hilton hotel} 9:00pm USA WESTERN TERRITORY refreshments & Concerts 9:00pm Prayer Gathering June 8 5:30am 7:00am 8:00am
{
}
June 10 5:30am 7:00am 8:00am 10:00am 12:00pm 3:00pm 3:00pm
SunDAY Korean Prayer Gathering Prayer Gathering FoF Breakfast Commissioning & ordination The Gathering Lunch Service of Appointments Kids’ Worship Meeting
*by invitation only Translation will be available in Spanish, Korean and Chinese for all major events if requested at registration. All events to be held at the Pasadena Convention Center unless otherwise indicated. To register for all events, visit www.uswevents.org.
USA WESTERN TERRITORY
RegisteR BY May 1, 2012 at www.uswevents.oRg visit www.faceBook.com/thegatheRing2012
Doing the Most Good
April 9, 2012
9
MEET THE CADETS OF THE FRIENDS OF CHRIST SESSION
Jeremy Aird
Violet Aird
Jared Arnold
JEREMY AIRD Home Corps: Salt Lake City, Utah Generation Salvationist: 6th What brought you to TSA: I was born into the Army. Ministry/Passions: Rehabilitation, those coming to know Jesus Christ as a Savior from sin Hobbies & Interests: Chicago Cubs, movies, time with wife VIOLET AIRD Home Corps: Salt Lake City, Utah Generation Salvationist: 5th What brought you to TSA: I was born into the Army. Ministry/Passions: Rehabilitation, homeless community Hobbies & Interests: Crafting, organizing, planning JARED ARNOLD Children: Raymond, Stephen “Jack” Home Corps: Sun Cities, Ariz. Generation Salvationist: 7th What brought you to TSA: I grew up in the Army. Ministry/Passions: Administration, stewardship, men’s fellowship Hobbies & Interests: Technology, art CHRISTINA ARNOLD Children: Raymond, Stephen “Jack” Home Corps: Sun Cities, Ariz. Generation Salvationist: 1st What brought you to TSA: I met the Army as a young girl through the food box program, and then troops program. Ministry/Passions: Family programs, youth, seniors Hobbies & Interests: Crafts, furniture restoration
TRAFFICKING from page 2
shifting from “victims” to influential advocates working against human trafficking, emphasizing the sense of power and strength gained in promoting societal change. Sherri Harris, NETS-OC program director, then welcomed the audience of 50 members from faith-based organizations, non-profit agencies, and community volunteers and mentors who were integral to the support and emotional recovery of the graduates. Clients—from NETS-OC and its partner agency, Community Services Program (CSP)— were presented a certificate of achievement and a small gift by his or her case manager. “[The Salvation Army] has always walked side by side with me to support and help me make decisions for myself,” one client said. “Slowly, you began to walk behind me so I could do more by myself. One day, I will look back and not see you anymore. And that is scary, but I know that I can handle it on my own.” The ceremony concluded with a prayer from Major Jessica Elgart, assistant social services secretary in the Western Territory.
Christina Arnold Marianne Brands
MARIANNE BRANDS Children: Kenny Keys, Morgan Keys, Noah Keys Home Corps: Eastside/Bellingham, Wash. Generation Salvationist: 1st What brought you to TSA: I met the Army through a basketball program. Ministry/Passions: Social service, especially with abused women and children; homeless Hobbies & Interests: Spend time with my children JAVIER CASTRO Children: Isabel, Genesis, Robert Home Corps: Santa Ana Temple, Calif. Generation Salvationist: 1st What brought you to TSA: My wife’s parents are officers. Ministry/Passions: Areas where I can be stretched out of my comfort zone; establishing and building relationships in new communities through the gift of encouragement; preaching, singing and teaching Hobbies & Interests: UFC, working out, reading, cleaning IRENE CASTRO Children: Isabel, Genesis, Robert Home Corps: Santa Ana Temple, Calif. Generation Salvationist: 2nd What brought you to TSA: I was raised in the Army. Ministry/Passions: If I’m helping someone and they’re growing closer to God, it doesn’t matter what I do.
Javier Castro
Irene Castro
Hobbies & Interests: Spend time with my family and friends, watch movies, shop TIM DANIELSON Children: Timothy, Isaiah, Bradley, Alyssa, Brooke Home Corps: Fresno Citadel, Calif. Generation Salvationist: 6th What brought you to TSA: I grew up in the Army. Ministry/Passions: Building relationships with marginalized people Hobbies & Interests: Sports, especially baseball DIANA DANIELSON Children: Timothy, Isaiah, Bradley, Alyssa, Brooke Home Corps: Fresno Citadel, Calif. Generation Salvationist: 2nd What brought you to TSA: I grew up in the Army. Ministry/Passions: Building relationships with marginalized people Hobbies & Interests: Photography, arts and crafts JENNY DAVIDSON Children: Sean-Robert Home Corps: Whittier, Calif. Generation Salvationist: 3rd What brought you to TSA: I grew up as an officer’s kid. Ministry/Passions: Children, youth, young adults Hobbies & Interests: Hip-hop music, creative arts, eating rice *Cadet spouse: Lt. Robert Davidson
MEGAN DELAPP Home Corps: McMinnville, Ore. Generation Salvationist: 1st
Timothy Danielson
Diana Danielson
What Brought You to TSA: I was invited to Sunbeams by a girl in my neighborhood. Ministry/Passions: Seeing young
Jenny Davidson Megan DeLapp
people come to Christ, overseas missions Hobbies & Interests: Photography, sightseeing, reading, writing
10
Doing the Most Good
April 9, 2011 New Frontier
Committees make the difference a view from the
Board Side
Active and effective committees pave the way for the success of your advisory board and local Salvation Army operations. Dick In Modesto (Calif.) we currently Hagerty have 17 working committees, and Advisory board we often add another committee or member combine those that are no longer vital to our operations. Additionally, we engage many community members who are not officially on our boards or councils to work on these committees. At present, 25 non-board members lend their time and expertise to assist us in the local work, thereby extending the relationship through the community and tapping into specific skills of those who do not feel otherwise called for full board membership. The executive committee (“ExCom”) is essential to efficient operation. This committee should be made up of all the board officers (president, vicepresident, secretary, treasurer and immediate past president). Others, such as key committee chairs may be added, but an effective ExCom is 10 or fewer in size. The committee, which should meet two weeks away from the regular board meeting time, is responsible for previewing issues that will come before the entire board and for fully reviewing details of issues that would consume too much board time. I refer to our ExCom as the “heavy lifting” group on the board—this is where the action is. The finance committee must meet monthly to review current financial statements and cash position, prepare the annual budget and regularly review the status of budget to actual, sit in on audit presentations and assist with United Way and other funding proposals. Maintaining the momentum of this important committee can be difficult; in the past we have combined Finance with ExCom to keep current on money matters. The property committee monitors and reviews the ongoing status of maintenance, upkeep and necessary repairs, while keeping a long-range view on addition of new capital assets and properties. Ideally, the property committee will have one or more contractors or members of the building community in attendance to provide a professional judgment of what may be needed. In addition, many times these contractors and builders will be able to work their own network of contacts to obtain the best prices and often donate services for repairs and additions. Public relations should be chaired by someone in the field of advertising, media or a related area. It is vital to get the word out to the community concerning the work of the Army, and this committee needs members who have the contacts and the willingness to do so. The development committee needs to continuously review and monitor the mail campaigns and the advertising that goes out under our name. They also plan special fundraising events such as golf tournaments, benefit dinners, auctions and special speaking events. Will and estate planning clinics are essential to the long-range financial planning of the local Army. This committee should remind the entire board that personal contact and relationship building is the key to fundraising. Also, the committee may organize various groups of board members to make thank you calls to recent donors. The nominating committee is charged with two important tasks. The first is to assess and nominate the next slate of officers to serve on the board, ideally for a two-year term. The second task is to receive recommendations and to review and present prospective board members to the board at large for approval. We also employ such committees as a Christmas committee, kettle committee, disaster committee, program/social services committee, and others that focus on a single major program including shelter and child development center. Look for more on these committees in a future column. Contact Hagerty at rghagerty@aol.com for a complete list of committees, related tasks, and other advisory information.
Why did Jesus have to die? Clearly, the answer to the question of why Jesus had to die involves selfsacrifice, not self-preservation. In John 15:13, Jesus says, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (ASV). Nowhere can we find better examples of this theology of selfLawrence sacrifice in practice than in the history of our movement. Many years ago, on Shiroma a foggy night in 1914, the passenger Major ship Empress of Ireland collided with another ship on the St. Lawrence River in Canada. More than 1,000 men, women and children died; of these, 167 were Salvationists, many of them bandsmen en route to the International Congress in London. Survivors of the tragedy told how these Salvationists, seeing there were not enough life preservers, took off their own and gave them to others, saying, “I know Jesus, so I can die better than you can!” (Our Daily Bread, Fall 1980). This is the theology of self-sacrifice, of “doing the most good,” for the love of Christ compels us (2 Cor. 5:14). It was certainly not the thought of self-preservation that prompted the early Salvationists to give away their life preservers. In National Geographic, a photo taken in 1918 during World War I depicted a Salvation Army officer writing a letter home for a wounded soldier. According to the report, the field commander repeatedly told the officer that she would be killed if she and the other Salvationists persisted in serving the men doughnuts and coffee and writing letters for them, while under heavy enemy fire. The officer replied, “We can die with the men, but we cannot leave them.” Again, it was not the thought of self-preservation that prompted the officer to stay on the battlefield with the soldiers. How about today? Does doing God’s will in modern society involve the theology of self-sacrifice or are we
more concerned with self-preservation? In our spiritual walk with the Lord Jesus Christ, in the effort to do the most good, are we willing to walk through the narrow gate of self-sacrifice (Matt. 7:14), or are we concerned about preserving our existence? Are we willing to give of our lives freely to the cause of Christ, or are we caught up with merely preserving our assets? The Western Territory Social Service Response Team is tasked with “helping to shape the future of The Salvation Army Social Services with the intent of defining the contemporary signature of the Army’s practical theology.” What is the practical theology of The Salvation Army? I think it is found in sacrificial acts, like that of the 167 Canadian Salvationists on board the Empress of Ireland, who willingly gave their life jackets to others, or that of The Salvation Army officer in World War I, who would rather die with the men rather than leave them. This is the practical theology of The Salvation Army. So why did Jesus have to die? I think there are two reasons. First, Jesus died to show us God’s power over death. We know that “the wages of sin is death” (Rom. 6:23). We all die, because all of us are born with the sin DNA. But Jesus had no sin in his life. He was “truly and properly God and truly and properly man” (Salvation Army Doctrine four). He was sinless, the pure Lamb of God, and even though Jesus died upon the cross on Good Friday, death had no power over him—so he rose again on Easter morning. Second, Jesus died to show us God’s love, as referenced in John 15:13. May we give our lives willingly and not hold back when it is within our power to share, and may we have the spirit of self-sacrifice, so that others may see the love of Christ and experience the reality of a God incarnate who walked with us 2,000 years ago, and walks with us still.
Heavenly mansions I’ve got a mansion just over the hilltop In that bright land where we’ll never grow old; And someday yonder, we will never more wander, But walk on streets that are pure as gold! Recently, my mother was promoted to Glory. My sisters and I have been trying to cope with the ensuing tasks, including taking care of personal belongings, funeral arrangements, insurance and final expenses. In planning her celebration of life service, my middle sister wanted us to sing a favorite chorus. We didn’t think we could pull that off as a congregational song, but we asked Major Suzanne Hill to play a piano solo in Mom’s honor and to incorporate the chorus, “I’ve Got a Mansion,” within the piece. To our delight, she played an arrangement of “It Is Well with My Soul,” and in the middle she inserted the familiar strains of “I’ve got a mansion just over the hilltop, in that bright land where we’ll never grow old.” All three of us smiled through our tears. Our mother had been doing well for a woman of her age. She was sick for a relatively short time, so when she went into hospice care we were surprised. My middle sister and I quickly made flight arrangements to be with Mom and our older sister, her caretaker. On the morning of our departure, however, when we received a phone call telling us that our mother had been promoted to Glory, we were stunned and dismayed—we had missed that last opportunity to assure her of our love and to physically say goodbye! God knows our deep sorrow because we just narrowly missed Mom’s last moments on earth. Lamentations 3:22-23 says, Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness (NIV). We were not consumed. Even though we did not understand why everything happened as it did, we always knew who was in charge. Carol, Pam and I “knew” that God was the one who chose the time and place for Mom’s homecoming and nothing we did would change that. Because of this knowledge we are able to live full lives; bitterness and grief do not consume us. Even though tears and sorrow may come upon us, the love of God fills that empty hole in our hearts.
As we were growing up, we saw how Mom lived. It was obvious that she loved God and was fully committed to serve him. We were proud of the way she showed love to others by honoring all people and helping as many as she could. She was a League of Mercy secretary whom any corps would have appreciated. Judy We three girls observed both our mom and dad as they served God—at Smith work, at home and as soldiers of the Lt. Colonel Portland Tabernacle Corps. We saw how they treated others with respect; that is how we learned how to treat others and to put their needs before ours. God never promises that our loved ones will live forever; that we never have to say goodbye or feel sorrow from the death of a loved one. But he did promise that we will always have his joy in our life through times of sorrow or despair. He also promises that we will see our loved ones again on that day when we go to our heavenly reward. I know I will see Mom again in heaven. Praise God for his promises! “And someday we will never more wander, but walk on streets that are pure as gold.” God, what a wonderful promise you have given to your children. Our lives are filled with your joy here on earth, and we will one day live with you in heaven—walking streets that are pure as gold (Rev. 21:21). That is something to be joyful about, and I praise you for your gift of salvation that I accepted so many years ago. Ildra will not soon be forgotten! Her life and her influence in this world will be remembered for a long time by her family and friends; she will even be remembered as a dedicated 2nd cornet player in the Portland Tabernacle Band. Just thinking about that brings joy to my heart and a smile to my face. Thank you, God, for allowing me to have a wonderful mother like Ildra Smith. My sisters and I will thank you for the rest of our lives for her love and influence, which shaped the way that we live, and her encouragement to stay on the pathway you set for each of us. Thanks also for your compassion and faithfulness that allows me to live a life filled to the brim with your joy and peace! And praise you, God, for your promises that are true and faithful to all believers for all eternity.
Doing the Most Good
April 9, 2012 New Frontier
The endurance trials A number of successful television series capitalize on the human need to prove one’s ability to overcome challenges, to come out on top, to outthink, outdo, and outlast one’s opponents against all odds. Men and women Sharon continue to step up to the Robertson challenge of endurance Lt. Colonel races and trials, pitting their own physical and mental resources against the obstacles of the race, determined to win, no matter what! From quiz shows to survival contests to reality shows to dramas and talent shows, participants strive to be the best, to prove one’s self, to earn the approval and acclaim of their peers. No effort is too great. Three of my brothers were Marines. I don’t know much about the training—physical and mental—that they had to undergo to earn the right to be called Marines, but I surmise that it must have been grueling, demanding every ounce of strength and determination they could muster in order to finish the course and earn acceptance into the ranks of the Corps. They were proud to be Marines, and proud to embrace the challenges of service in that branch of the military. Though I often heard them reminisce about the rigors of the endurance trials they had undergone, I never heard them complain that the experience was too rigorous, or that they should never have been forced to endure such trials. According to the writer of the Book of Hebrews, you and I also are involved in an endurance contest, one with eternal consequences. Our entry into the race was voluntary—we signed up when we accepted the invitation to receive salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Most of us didn’t really know what we were getting into; we only knew that the rewards offered were worth every effort, every sacrifice we could possibly make for his sake. We experienced the spiritual high, the exhilaration of knowing freedom from our debilitating bondage to sin, the burst of power that comes from learning that I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (Phil. 4:13 KJV), and the all-encompassing joy of a relationship with a loving Father who has great plans for our future. Who could forget that moment? And
Springtime
who knew that initial commitment to God was to be a lifelong commitment to confronting and overcoming (through Christ) a series of challenges every bit as daunting as any endurance contest ever devised? Who realized that repeatedly we would have to confront and evade the traps, the snares, the entanglements of a race course contrived by an opponent determined to see us fail at any cost? When Jesus enlisted us in his cause, he knew it would not be easy. As the Marines undergo endurance trials to train them and make them fit to face the enemy, so Jesus causes our spiritual “muscles” to be tested and exercised and challenged, so that we might grow strong in him. He has trained us in the field, equipped us and empowered us to serve in his name. He himself set the perfect example of what it means to serve in God’s army, sacrificing his own life to turn losers into winners, slaves to sin into freedmen under grace. He provided an innumerable host of examples in the lives of heroes of the faith, men and women who ran the race with courage and determination, and were commended by God for their faithfulness. The challenges are great, the hindrances real—pain and hardship, the suffering, even the day by day shuffling through the dust and grit require patience, fortitude. And yet... We have been given the privilege of serving in the army of God, undergoing constant training to sharpen our skills in the use of the weapons he has provided. God has entrusted us with a mission in his service. He has chosen to back us in the endurance trials of life, and he has determined that we are to be winners, bringing honor and glory to his name. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart (Heb. 12:1-3 NIV).
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.
CELEBRATING OUR 30th YEAR
ISSN 2164-5930 New Frontier is published twice a month by The Salvation Army USA Western Territory Commissioner James Knaggs, Territorial Commander Colonel Dave Hudson, 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: New Frontier, P.O. Box 22646, 180 E. Ocean Blvd. Long Beach, CA 90802 The editor reserves the right to edit material submitted. Articles should be roughly 300 words in length.
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A Prayer in Spring By Robert Frost
Oh, give us pleasure in the flowers today; And give us not to think so far away As the uncertain harvest; keep us here All simply in the springing of the year.
Oh, give us pleasure in the orchard white, Like nothing else by day, like ghosts by night; And make us happy in the happy bees, The swarm dilating round the perfect trees.
And make us happy in the darting bird That suddenly above the bees is heard, The meteor that thrusts in with needle bill, And off a blossom in mid air stands still.
For this is love and nothing else is love, The which it is reserved for God above To sanctify to what far ends He will, But which it only needs that we fulfil.
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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 Edie Jenkins, Editorial Assistant • 562/491-8785 email: edie.jenkins@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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Robert Docter
Editor-In-Chief
To love the miracles of spring de-complicates life. To avoid revelling in its beauty, pondering its mystery, or finding fascination in its colors deprives us of the gift of simplicity. All too often we join a troop marching hurriedly in lock-step from this to that in the frenzy of imagined importance and ignore the lessons in love showered upon us by a beneficent and creative God. We manufacture worries that wind their way from stomach to brain and back again. These do little more than contort our faces. And once dispelled, we busily go about creating another one. We must enjoy the sleepless exhaustion and stomach pain. Is this the only way we know we are alive? We have the obligation to fulfill God’s love as he sanctifies it with his magnificent gifts. We often miss the meaning of love with the self-centered notion that we, alone, are God’s creation. Not true. Humans came far down the line—almost at the end of his creating period. To ignore any element of God’s creation is to live without the fullness of his love. Look around you. Are you isolated in the chill of air-conditioned modernity? Are you surrounded by glass and metal? Is your usual pace called “hurried”? Can you feel the wind or hear a bird celebrate or smell the beauty of life or be touched by a loved one? No? For God’s sake—stop! Go outside and drink in the meaning of love. You’ll find it in the presence and present of God’s gift of nature. We fulfill God’s love for us by loving his creation— all of it, and all of us. In this hemisphere, Easter always comes in the spring of the year. What a bonus! It comes on the first Sunday after the first new moon after the vernal equinox. It is as if the springtime, with its rebirth and renewal of the world around us brings us a special gift. Plants burst into bloom. Trees bring forth their fruit. Birds sing their melodies of love to one another. The days slowly warm since summer can’t be far behind, and we sing hymns that speak of an empty tomb and a risen Lord. Edmund Spencer, a British poet who lived in the 16th century saw it and wrote:
Most glorious Lord of life, that on this day, Didst make thy triumph over death and sin: And having harrow’d hell, didst bring away Captivity thence captive, us to win.
So let us love, dear love, like as we ought, Love is the lesson which the Lord us taught.
Fresh spring, the herald of love’s mighty kind, In whose coat armour richly are displayed All sorts of flowers the which on earth do spring In goodly colors gloriously array’d.
Our spirits rise. Hope expands. Beauty bursts around us, and we praise the One who sends us blessings upon blessings in the majesty of springtime.
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