GOOD NEWS! Volume 31 Number 3
MARCH 2014
INSIDE
GENERAL’S EASTER MESSAGE
‘Jesus did not remain in the tomb ... but rose from the dead. One day, we too can rise to eternal life.’ PAGE 5
‘Ordinary people, extraordinary work’ ANTI-SEXUAL TRAFFICKING
At ‘The Well,’ trafficking victims finally feel accepted and safe. PAGE 7
STRIKEPOINT SMALL GROUPS
‘We are coming together in small groups to sharpen our skills and to go more deeply in the areas of ministry and mission.’—Commissioner Barry C. Swanson, territorial commander. PAGE 17
Good News! Online: www.SAConnects.org USA Eastern Territorial website: www.ArmyConnections.org USA National website: www.SalvationArmyUSA.org
Colonels Bamford welcomed
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adies and gentlemen, please welcome the Bamfords!” said Commissioner Barry C. Swanson, territorial commander. “They are back; they are here; and they will serve this territory in a wonderful way!” A capacity crowd, which included delegates from this year’s Candidates Seminar Weekend, witnessed a warm and enthusiastic evening of music, drama, and pulpit ministry at Centennial Memorial Temple in New York City. The featured guests were Colonels William A. Bamford III and G. Lorraine Bamford, the newly appointed chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries. Setting the tone for worship and providing reflective musical and dramatic
Warren L. Maye
ministries were the Greater New York Youth Band, the Greater New York Youth Chorus, and the Territorial Arts Ministries Team (TAM), as well as Phil Laeger on piano, who invited the audience to sing a medley of choruses and sacred hymns. Commissioners Barry and Sue Swanson, territorial leaders, were conversational and engaging as they reintroduced the Bamfords to the territory. They had served for the past four years as chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries of the South America West Territory. The Swansons recalled the Bamfords’ history in the East, pointing out that Colonel Bill was born in Philadelphia and Colonel Lorraine, in Boston. Before being continued on page
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from the editor >>
Show me the Resurrection
WARREN L. MAYE
“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; ....’” —John 11:25
S
ince seeing the movie “Son of God,” I’ve been obsessed with thoughts of Christ’s resurrection. Although inspired by scenes and music from the movie, the images in my head are vastly different. Almost as if I were a crime scene investigator (CSI), I can imagine how the actual moment must have looked and sounded. One reason for that is that I’ve frequently had my own experience of “returning from the dead.” When I wake up after eight hours of sleep and stand in front of my morning mirror with puffy eyes, congested nasal and throat passages, matted hair, and aching limbs, I wonder if there can be enough soap, hot water, towels, and time to ”come back.” So when I imagine my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ rising after having been dead in a darkened tomb for three days, I’m consumed by images of how His beaten, lashed, scarred, and pierced body must have actually appeared and felt—to Him. My niece is in forensics. With the nonchalance of an undertaker, she can describe how bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other parasites quickly wreak havoc on a broken immune system. In Christ’s dead body, such invaders had time to break down the very fiber of His being. And I can only imagine the fermented “decomp” smell. Yet in the midst of this horror, I am inspired by an exhilarating vision of that amazing moment when, in His silent darkened tomb, a cyclonic rush of air filled Christ’s lungs and He breathed His first resurrection breath! And in my ears, I hear triumphant music like that in “Son of God.” And I deliver an enthusiastic “Yes!” When He stood, unwrapped His burial clothes, stretched His arms, and entered the brilliant light of a new day, Christ had returned from the most challenging odyssey of all time. And He knew where He had arrived and where He would be going—to sit at God’s right hand. He is there now and forevermore. If you see the movie “Son of God,” allow it to inspire you to imagine the Resurrection—the foundation of our faith—in a new and empowering way. And praise Him—because He is risen!
Letters Thank you for all your services. Good News! is a very uplifting and informative publication. It’s heartwarming to read how young people are involved [in ministry]. Blessings! —Lorraine W. Harrington, Hancock, N.H. The welcome [of the Colonels Bamford] was wonderful! The Lord was present. — Lt. Colonel Gladys Williams DeMichael (from Facebook)
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GOOD NEWS! USA EASTERN TERRITORY Commissioners Barry C. and Sue Swanson Territorial Leaders Colonel William A. Bamford III Chief Secretary Lt. Colonel Cheryl A. Maynor Secretary for Communications Warren L. Maye Robert Mitchell Keri Johnson Reginald Raines Doris Marasigan Karena Lin Joe Marino Nanette Morales
Editor–in–chief Managing Editor Art Director Associate Art Director Photo Archivist Graphic Designer Graphic Designer Production/Web Specialist
Divisional News Correspondents CFOT — Major A. Kenneth Wilson ARCC — Major Charles Deitrick PENDEL — Randall Thomas, Major Kathryn A. Avery EMP — Jaye C. Jones GNY — Captain Gillian Rogers MASS — Drew Forster NJ — Bramwell Applin NEOSA — Major Thomas Hinzman NNE — Cheryl Poulopoulos PR & VI — Linette Luna SNE — James Gordon SWONEKY — Major Faith Miller WEPASA — Captain Kimberly DeLong All articles are copyrighted by The Salvation Army, except where indicated, and can be reprinted only with written permission. Also available in Korean and Spanish.
Statement of Purpose Good News! is the official publication of The Salvation Army of the USA Eastern Territory. The purpose of Good News! is to inform, inspire, and equip Salvationists to grow in holiness, to serve together in supportive, healing communities, and to reach others for Jesus Christ.
For mailing list changes, write: Good News!, 440 West Nyack Road, West Nyack, NY 10994–1739.
BUENAS NOTICIAS!
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March 2014
vantage point >>
Surprises
coMMissioner steVen hedGren
Commissioner Steven Hedgren, former territorial commander for the Eastern Territory, accepted an invitation extended by Commissioner Barry C. Swanson, territorial commander, to be the guest writer for the Easter Good News! We hope this piece inspires you.
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have decided to write another book. I had co–authored Mapping Our Salvationist DNA: Beliefs, Values, Behaviors (2012). But after 37 years of writing sermons, devotionals, and articles, it is about time I shock my freshman–year English professor and do a major work that is beyond anything I’ve done before. Rather than write a spy novel of international intrigue, or a passionate romance, or a self– help book on leadership (my library is full of such writings that have given me joy and have helped me along the way), my book will be about surprises— God’s surprises. Surprises such as “We are having another baby!” Or, “I am calling you to become a Salvation Army officer.” Surprises from God can be uplifting or devastating. One thing is always certain: We can never prepare ourselves for God’s surprises. I never thought that, at age 60, I would be surprised to learn that God allowed cancer to enter my body. I thought, How can this happen to me? God’s surprises are very real. And when they come, our faith is tested.
Since receiving my diagnosis 41 months ago, what has surprised me the most has been the power of prayer. Through the years, I have preached about prayer and encouraged people to daily take quality time with God—to go into a quiet place, read His word, meditate, and listen to His voice. Today, God’s surprises reassure me to take my own advice and to know that the power of prayer will get me through cancer. As word of my battle with cancer reached family and friends, I was overwhelmed by the number of cards, emails, and phone calls of reassurance and prayer support that I received. Word came from all over the world. Now, three and a half years later, I am still receiving notes from people and groups who are praying for me. As I sit in my weekly “chemo chair,” I am amazed at the power of prayer to overcome this unpleasant experience. When I wonder how I am going to make it through the next treatment, I turn to prayer and connect with other believers for a shot of surprising power! As a result, my diagnosis has changed this past year from “critical” to “chronic.” Despite receiving weekly chemo, I have recaptured a sense of normalcy. Why should I not be surprised at God’s healing power through prayer in my life? That’s what I will write about. I wonder if He surprises us just to prove His point—that He is ultimately in charge. I think that is what I like best about God.
BOUNDLESS BOUNDLESS the wholeworld worldredeeming redeeming the whole The Salvation Army International Congress
The150 Salvation Army International Congress th Anniversary | 1-5 July 2015 | London, UK
150th Anniversary | 1-5 July 2015 | London, UK Register at BOUNDLESS2015.ORG
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prayer & praisE >>
Contemplative Prayer “My soul waits in silence for God alone….” —Psalm 62:1, NASB
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onversations, music, thoughts, interruptions, phone calls, appointments, and lists fill our days. HELP! STOP! Can we get off this treadmill? Can we find shelter from this bombardment? Can we take time to wait in silence for God? We absolutely can and must find such relief if we want to be free of our addiction to words. Contemplative prayer is part of the spiritual formation journey for mature Christians. Richard Foster writes in Prayer: Finding the Heart’s True Home, “…those who work in the area of spiritual direction always look for signs of a maturing faith before encouraging individuals into Contemplative Prayer. Some of the indicators are a continuing hunger for intimacy with God, an ability to forgive others at a great personal cost, a living sense that God alone can satisfy the longings of the human heart, a deep satisfaction
in prayer, a realistic assessment of personal abilities and shortcomings, a freedom from boasting about spiritual accomplishments, and a demonstrated ability to live out the demands of life patiently and wisely. … It is not that we must be accomplished in these areas. It is that clear progress must be occurring.” Contemplative prayer is similar to a person eating meat only after having learned to digest milk, fruit, and vegetables. Why? When you engage in contemplative prayer, it is possible that you will encounter spiritual warfare. You will need to protect yourself through praying the Word and by putting on the “whole armor of God.” In contemplative prayer, you know that you are in God’s presence. Such prayer has been described as being in union with God. Jesus said to “abide in Me” (John 15). John Wesley described that unity as his heart being “strangely warmed.” Thérèsa of Lisieux described it as “dreaming of heaven.” Richard Rohr states,
Colonel Janice Howard
“Prayer is not primarily saying words or thinking thoughts. It is, rather, a stance. It’s a way of living in the Presence.” Adele Ahlberg Calhoun describes contemplative prayer in her Spiritual Disciplines Handbook as prayer that includes practicing the presence of God, allowing Scripture to permeate our being, practicing breath prayer, practicing centering prayer, and resting in God. As you can see, contemplative prayer is a “container discipline,” which includes a number of ways of being with Jesus. If you would like to read more about contemplative prayer and see the territorial prayer requests list, please go to www.armyonitsknees.org. —Colonel Janice Howard is the Secretary for Spiritual Life Development.
vantage point >>
There is salvation in no other
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t Easter, in remembering the death and bodily resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, we celebrate a most important event within the Church calendar. This event is significant, for, in witnessing to the fact that Jesus did not remain in the tomb but rose from the dead, it points to the promise that one day we too can thereby rise to eternal life. It is important to recognize that while we reside upon this earth in physical bodies, we are also spiritual beings intended to live for eternity. In too many places across the globe, a resolute turning to materialism has led to an unhealthy exclusion of those other key elements required for men and women to know deep and lasting satisfaction. Materialism can never address the deepest longings of our heart, and this superficial feature of too many societies around the world is simply incapable of giving true joy and freedom. Life is more than the accumulation of possessions, and many individuals today, despite owning so much, remain unsatisfied. Some do earnestly seek after the point of and purpose for life, and also desire an assurance that there is indeed “something” after death. Too often, though, people look in the wrong place—how many readily consult horoscopes in an ultimately fruitless attempt to understand present unknowns, or to gain a form of security for a sometimes daunting future? My attention was recently arrested while reading Tim Leberecht’s comment, “We live in times of major uncertainty. The doom and gloom of the economic crisis, the deterioration of mass markets, the pervasiveness of the digital lifestyle, and the fragmentation of traditional societal institutions are not only inducing anxiety but also inspiring a search for simplicity and noneconomic value systems. Consumption–driven wealth and status
’
GeneraL andre coX
are being replaced by identity, belonging, and a strong desire to contribute to—or to experience—something ‘meaningful’ rather than to acquire more things.” The Bible, of course, does address the most fundamental needs of and questions from humanity. It speaks to us about the purpose of our lives. It speaks to us about our destiny. It speaks to us about our eternal future being made secure. It is only as we carefully read the Bible, as we diligently study it, as we meditate prayerfully on it, that we begin to appreciate the true fullness of life that can be ours if we will but reach out and grasp it. In the book of Acts we find an account of two apostles, Peter and John, being hauled before the Sanhedrin after they had healed a crippled man. Peter, inspired by the Holy Spirit, made this bold statement: “If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. He is ‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the capstone.’ Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:9–12 NIV, 1984). There is nothing more important in this life than for us to discover the truth that indeed, “Salvation is found in no one else.” The Christian message is unique because this message is not merely about a set of doctrines and beliefs. It is not about religion. Rather it is about the living man, Jesus Christ. We celebrate a risen Lord and Savior. In Him alone we find peace, joy, and assurance regarding our eternal future. May this be your personal and daily experience!
‘It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed.’
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transformation >>
‘This time last year …’
“I
was just waiting to die ... ” These are the words Joseph Cantrell uses to describe his condition last year. Prior to that point, Joe, as he’s known around the Newark, N.J., Ironbound Corps, had everything—a good job, money, an apartment, and even a new car. Rather than devastate Joe all at once, the enemy cleverly disguised Joe’s slow fade into addiction. So well was his descent concealed that for a time, his life seemed to be in control. Joe’s perfect world began to unravel when he and a girlfriend had a nasty breakup and he admits he didn’t cope well with the hurt. “It was the hardest thing I ever had to deal with,” Joe says. An injury at work compounded his pain. It facilitated a long relationship with painkillers, then other drugs and alcohol. When the painkillers stopped working, heroin became Joe’s drug of choice. The fire of the addiction burned every bridge in his life until even his family became sick of what he had become. It was this realization that led Joe to put his name on a rehab center waiting list. One day, as Joe packed his few belong-
ings and prepared for a winter of homelessness, he admitted to himself that he was at his end. He was sick of living. He broke down and cried. And after a 15–year hiatus from God and church, he began to pray. After his plea to the Lord, Joe rose to his feet and continued packing. In an instant his cell phone rang. It was his stepfather, who hadn’t spoken to him in a few weeks. “Me and your mom are on our way to church. We heard an ad for The Salvation Army and we think you should give
Lieutenant Darell Houseton
them a call.” “And I did!” Joe said. After arriving at the Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) in Newark, Joe began to work on himself. “I found Jesus … everything changed,” he says. Joe successfully completed the ARC’s program and graduated a much different man from the one he had been when he arrived. He was offered a job as a truck driver for the ARC and accepted it. He got his family back, found himself, and, most importantly, stuck with the Lord. “I know God is in control,” Joe says. “If I trust and obey Him, everything will be just fine.” God didn’t stop there in Joe’s life. He is proud to say, “I am taking my soldiership classes now and I hope to one day be an officer in The Salvation Army so I can give back what was so freely given to me!” Today, it’s typical for our conversations with Joe to start with him saying, “This time last year.... ” It’s all because of the saving power of Christ in his life. —Lieutenant Darell Houseton is the associate corps officer of the Newark Ironbound Corps.
Join Our Ministry Team! Two great full-time job opportunities for mission focused soldiers in Lexington, Kentucky. Corps Assistant: Assist the corps officers with evangelistic outreach and the overall operation of local corps ministries. FT/Exempt. Active Salvationist. Passion for God and souls. Strong work ethic. Knowledge of corps programming. Previous experience (volunteer or employment) with youth ministry. Highly organized. Humble and teachable spirit. Sterling interpersonal skills. Comfortable working with all ages. Valid Driver’s License and willingness to drive a 15 passenger mid-bus. 21 years of age. H.S. Diploma/GED required; Bachelor’s degree preferred. Music Coordinator: Responsible for a large corps music ministry program –Sunday services, Corps Community Center, SA Boys and Girls Club and Early Learning Center. FT/Non-Exempt. Active Salvationist. Passion for God and souls. Bachelor’s degree in the field of music or two years of college with significant experience in music ministry. Strong Work Ethic. Humble spirit. Able to give private les sons and lead groups. Valid Driver’s License and willingness to drive a 15 passenger mid-bus. 21 years of age. Visit www.salvationarmylex.org for more information. Please send a resume and letters of recommendation from a corps officer & a local officer to katherine.music@use.salvationarmy.org.
Anti-human trafficking >>
A wellspring of love
Trish Smouse
The Well is a drop–in center for victims of human trafficking in Columbus, Ohio. The name comes from the account in John 4 where Jesus speaks to the woman at the well.
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he Well has shown tremendous growth over the past few months since it has been housed at the East Main Corps. It is fulfilling its mission to offer a sanctuary of hope and healing to women who have been victimized by the sex industry. Every Tuesday at The Well, trafficking survivors explode with energy laced with love. Their exhilaration is a product of finally feeling accepted and safe. Although women come from all levels of exploitation (some are currently being exploited sexually while others are leaders in the recovery movement), they connect on an extremely deep level because they all have survived the horrors of human trafficking. Staffers provide a framework of guidance, but the survivors lead the programming as they participate in educational programs, teach others, and support one another in group therapy through intimate conversations about their emotional struggles. We know the program is helping dozens of women because they continue to come back. This is a 100 percent volunteer program, so all the women walking through the doors come because they are receiving respect and empowerment. Participant growth has been tremendous and tangible.
Trish Smouse (right) with a client. Success stories “J” is a survivor we met through our street outreach program. In her first visit, she broke down. Her tears seemed to represent decades of suppressed pain. Four other survivors embraced her through her breakdown. Since that day, J has attended regularly. She recently announced that she has passed her GED assessment. In her late 40s, J held back tears as she announced to the group that she will finally start school again. We also met “C” through our street outreach. She is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, and human sex trafficking. While she was on the streets one lonely afternoon, an anti– human trafficking staffer invited her to The Well. C returned almost every week and said in group therapy that, due to the support she received from The Well, she had stopped using crack cocaine. C, who had used her money to get high,
now takes the $10 she earns through the Leadership Institute participation and uses it to purchase items needed to make her apartment a home. “M,” who comes to The Well weekly, keeps to herself but always looks forward to the coffee. She is currently homeless and says she has to engage in “survival sex” to meet her daily needs. However, each week, you can see her grow spiritually through her steady interaction with others and changes in her “fashion statement.” In the beginning, she would arrive wearing short skirts, spaghetti strap tops, and long–haired wigs. Now, she dresses modestly and her own hair is styled nicely. M says she does this because of a newfound freedom to be herself at The Well, rather than to play her street role. M also says that people at The Well are the only people to whom she can tell the truth. Today, M is staying at the home of another participant who is supporting her while she gains sobriety and independence. —Christina Conrad and Michelle Hannan also contributed to this article. Trish Smouse is the program director for the Central Ohio Rescue and Restore Coalition, an anti–human trafficking initiative coordinated by the SWONEKY Division. Christina Conrad is a clinical specialist. Michelle Hannan is director of professional and community services in Central Ohio.
Christina Conrad (left) with caseworkers and a client. www.saconnects.org
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Anti-human trafficking >>
Getting women off the streets
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o you think that small U.S. cities such as Cincinnati and Portland, Maine, are directly in the path of human sex trafficking? If you said yes, you’re right. “Human trafficking exists in every state and nearly every city here in the United States,” writes Nita Belles author of In Our Backyard: A Christian Perspective on Human Trafficking in the United States. “Look hard enough and you’ll even find [trafficking] in our nation’s small towns and countryside,” wrote Belles, who worked with The Salvation Army in New Jersey to rescue victims trafficked during the weeks preceding the recent Super Bowl. Army officials in Cincinnati and Portland have set up “dropin” centers where women can find an alternative to the streets and enjoy genuine support and acceptance. Major Patricia LaBossiere, director of women’s ministries for the Northern New England Division, says the Portland Corps, which has been doing a street outreach ministry for the past year, recently opened a weekly drop–in center for women who have been or are currently being trafficked. “It is a place where they find a warm welcome, coffee, and conversation,” she says. Activities are offered, such as crafts, cooking and life–skills classes. “When we’re out on the street meeting women, we just try to greet them, give them a little gift, and tell them that God loves them,” LaBossiere says. “We also ask if they want us to pray for them.” The Salvation Army in Portland works well with a local anti– trafficking coalition and tries to connect the women to social services and other forms of help, LaBossiere says. Michelle Hannan, director of professional and community services for The Salvation Army of Central Ohio, said a drop–in center recently opened at the Cincinnati Citadel Corps. The center is usually open the day after Salvation Army staffers conduct street outreach. They give each woman a gift bag that includes food and personal items. “Hopefully, week after week, we’ll build relationships that will help women find a way out of the sex trafficking,” Hannan says.
Robert Mitchell
SAVN.tv producing documentary on human trafficking The Salvation Army Vision Network (SAVN. TV) is producing a feature documentary aimed at uncovering the connection between pornography and sexual trafficking. SAVN.TV, a product of the USA Western Territory, says the documentary will uncover the myth that pornography is a ‘harmless pastime for consenting adults.’ ‘It pulls back the curtain to reveal the ugly reality of addiction, infidelity, prostitution, child abuse, rape, and human sexual trafficking,’ the website says. See the trailer at www.savn.tv/campaign/view/1039
LaBossiere said a major problem in combating human trafficking is the lack of safe, transitional housing. Major Faith Miller, program secretary in the SWONEKY Division, says Salvation Army staffers sometimes go with police on “busts.” The human trafficking victims are then given temporary hotel accommodations. Miller says she is working on a better solution. “One of our visions is to have a residential treatment center that The Salvation Army operates,” Miller says. “It’s in the works.” Hannan says she is driven to help the victims of human trafficking by her “concern for social justice” and that she is thrilled to be doing it for the Army. “The Salvation Army is willing to go into those places where other people won’t go and to build relationships and to bring light into those areas,” she says. “That’s been a real driving force for me.”
The SWONEKY Division recently received funding from the State of Ohio to fight human trafficking. 8
March 2014
Anti-human trafficking >>
Traffickers ‘blitzed’ during Super Bowl
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“We don’t have an exact number of recoveries, but our attitude is that one person being trafficked is too many,” Belles said. “If we are able to recover one victim, that is worth all our efforts. We had a successful operation.” Lt. Colonel Carole Bate, the Eastern Territory’s social justice consultant, said volunteers from the Southern New England and New Jersey divisions helped to distribute the booklets. “That’s what they use as a starting point to talk to people on the streets,” Bate said. Bate said that Army Founder William Booth’s famous declaration “While women weep, I’ll fight!” puts combating human trafficking “at the very core of the Salvation Army’s message.”
n the days leading up to the Super Bowl at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., The Salvation Army and other organizations were poised to recover people being trafficked by the sex industry. Nita Belles, a noted author, speaker, and leader of a coalition of nonprofits called “Blitz The Traffickers,” said the Eastern Territory helped connect her with the community, offered facilities for meetings, and printed 5,000 booklets featuring the photos of missing children believed to be the victims of trafficking. “At least one child out of the book was recovered who was being trafficked,” Belles said the day after the Super Bowl. “I don’t know how many more.
Warrior against human trafficking
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he more Major Faith Miller learned about the subject of sexual trafficking as she wrote her master’s thesis, the more she wanted to be involved in stopping it. “You always think about human trafficking being something that happens in other countries,” she says. “I didn’t realize how much it takes place right here in our own communities. “It became a passion of mine that, in my ministry, wherever I go, I want to do something as a Salvation Army officer to help combat trafficking.” When Miller became program secretary in the SWONEKY Division, she saw the problem in Columbus and in Cincinnati. She helped obtain funding needed to start an anti–human trafficking campaign and allowed many talented staffers to participate. “It’s a combined effort of many people coming together to make this program successful,” Miller says. While some people are more comfortable working in the
www.saconnects.org
Robert Mitchell
Robert Mitchell
streets or at the drop–in center, Miller’s roles are to acquire the needed funding and to be a passionate advocate for the cause. “I’ve seen how the Lord has blessed a vision and how He continues to make paths available for us,” she says. “It’s a tremendous blessing to me, even as I sit in the background. “These women and their children need someone to be their advocate and their voice. It’s important to be their support and their encouragement and to help them see the identity they have in Christ.” Miller says the victims of human trafficking have had their spiritual identities “stolen.” “I know my identity is in Christ,” she says. “What drives my passion is that I want [these victims] to see their identity and their worth in Jesus. Hopefully, through our services and programs, they will be brought into a relationship with Jesus Christ.” Miller says Salvation Army staffers share both the Bible and their testimonies. “Many of us come from broken backgrounds and perhaps have had our identities or our spirits crushed,” she says. “We share our testimonies and where we are now. It’s nothing we’ve done ourselves, but it’s all through a personal relationship with Christ. “We can restore our identity and worth and know that we are loved and cared for by Christ. We use God’s Word to point them to a relationship with Him. That’s what helps to make them whole. “It’s not about what’s happened to them, it’s about who they can be now in Christ.”
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corps newS >>
Open hearts, cream pies, and God’s grace
Columbus, Ohio
‘Open Gym’ opens hearts Columbus, OH— On Tuesday nights, the Columbus Citadel Corps opens its gym to the public and invites residents of the Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) to join in the fun. Matt Stacy, outreach ministries coordinator at the corps, said the gym is open from 6–8 p.m., with devotions in the chapel at 7:30 p.m., for anyone who wants to take part. “We are excited that we get to develop deep, meaningful relationships with men in the Columbus area who are in rehab and are likely to stay in the area,” Stacy says. “We want to connect them 10
Cortland, New York
to the corps so that, when they graduate the program, they know a place that is suitable and falls in line with what they have been receiving for the last several months. “We are also excited to provide the community a place to relax in a nonthreatening and compassionate environment. We believe both the church leadership and the ARC gentlemen all have a witness they can share with newcomers at Open Gym.” New Dover soldiers Dover, NJ—Captains Aloir and Rute Andrade, corps officers, rejoiced as they added
seven new soldiers to the ranks. Major Hilda Santiago was the special guest for the day, and family, soldiers, and friends helped celebrate the event. Junior soldiers Ángel Espada and Erick Velásquez were enrolled as senior soldiers. Geraldo Flores, Gloria Patricia Núñez, Gloria Roa, Jacqueline González, and María Salazar had all been active members of the corps, participating in several ministries, before becoming soldiers. “That day, as a big family in Christ, we welcomed these new soldiers and enjoyed a nice lunch together,” said Fabi Soto, a soldier and the receptionist at the corps.
New Year’s gift Athol, MA—The corps recently received its first emergency disaster services (EDS) vehicle and rolled it out on a cold New Year’s Eve. Corps members served hot beverages from the vehicle as part of a celebration in Orange, Mass., called “Starry, Starry Night.” Lieutenant Elliott Higgins, corps officer, said the corps wanted to thank the public for its support during the past year.
Volunteer receives Booth Award Greenfield, MA— Denny LaShier, a 41–year member of the advisory board in Greenfield, Mass., was recently given the William Booth Award. Captain Dan Brunelle, the corps officer, said that in January, LaShier was honored at a volunteer appreciation dinner. “One of the exceptional things that Denny has done is come in every Thanksgiving and Christmas Day for 41 years and help prepare and cook the holiday meal we serve,” Brunelle said. The William Booth Award, named after the Army’s Founder, is March 2014
Kearny, New Jersey
given “for outstanding contributions to the betterment of humanity through personal participation in civic and philanthropic affairs.” Officers get ‘pied’ Cortland, NY—Was reaching an attendance goal of 105 just a pie–in–the–sky dream of the Cortland, N.Y., Corps youth group? The kids believed it was possible. And Captains Shane and Dorothy Budd, the corps officers, offered an incentive: If the goal was met, the Captains Budd agreed to be “pied” by the entire youth group. “This was a great milestone for the www.saconnects.org
Bengals connection
visitors at the Salvation Army’s annual civic luncheon at Paul Brown Stadium, where the Bengals play. “The children were a blessing,” Thomas said. “And we also saw the players on the field. Then, five of them came into the room and greeted us—giving hugs and autographs.”
Cincinnati, OH—The NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals and The Salvation Army have been crossing paths recently in the Queen City. Debra Thomas, program administrator at the Cincinnati Citadel Corps, said that in November, five children from the after–school program were chosen to sing and greet
A few weeks later, Bengals linebacker Abdul Hodge came to the corps and spent three hours playing ball with the children and signing autographs. “He spoke with the
young people of our corps,” said Captain Shane Budd. “They invited other kids to reach this goal.” At a meeting in January, every kid and leader attending got a chance to “pie” the captains.
children and said he will come again next year,” Thomas says. International flair Kearny, NJ— Celebrating its diversity, the corps held its first International Sunday in January. “The morning worship was held in three different languages,” says Captain Sherry Moukouangala. Moukouangala and her husband, Lieutenant Maurice Moukouangala, lead the corps. Joining them for the service were Majors Edgar and Barbara George, the divisional secretary and secretary for program in New Jersey.
Captain Moukouangala said Major Edgar George “shared the importance of working together and using our diversity as a testimony of God’s goodness and grace.” The morning also featured the enrollment of four junior soldiers, a senior soldier, and the appointment of a new corps secretary, Evelyn Hopler. “The Kearny Corps is marching into battle, armed with five new soldiers and a new local officer, fighting to win souls for Christ!” Moukouangala says.
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territorial newS >>
Colonels Bamford welcomed
appointed to South America, they had served in four Eastern divisions (as leaders in two of the divisions) while raising three children. In expressing words of appreciation, Colonel Bill thanked his children, who he said had accepted and supported God’s call upon his life and the life of their mom. Colonel Janice Howard, secretary for spiritual life development, put her arms around the Bamfords and prayed for God’s anointing upon their ministry. When Commissioner Barry Swanson once again encouraged everyone to show their appreciation for the Bamfords, the audience responded with a standing ovation. Colonel Lorraine put the focus of the evening squarely on God when she said, “We thank you, but we are realists. We know that you’re not here to welcome us. You’re here to see Jesus and to worship Him.” While reflecting on her time in South America West, Bamford thanked the Eastern Territory’s media team for 12
live–streaming territorial events. Looking directly into a camera, she greeted, in Spanish, friends and colleagues in South America who were watching the festivities. “I am honored to be a Salvation Army officer,” she said. “But, to be honest with you, I am not extraordinary.” Her next comment arrested everyone’s attention: “And nothing personal, but—neither are you.” Reflecting on her childhood as “a timid little girl,” Bamford said, “We are ordinary in our own eyes and in the world’s eyes. But we are extraordinary in God’s eyes!” Quoting 2
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Corinthians 4:7, she concluded, “We should never confuse God’s incomparable power with ourselves.” Prior to delivering his message for the evening, Colonel Bill expressed deep appreciation to people who had sent letters during his four years in South America.
Extraordinary! Bamford focused attention on ordinary individuals who became extraordinary, such as Nelson Mandela, Catherine Booth, and biblical giants Moses and Joshua. Using examples from Matthew 4:18–22, Bamford said,
Warren L. Maye
“We need to be like these disciples. We need to be willing to listen and to obey and to follow God.... To the disciples, Jesus simply says, ‘Come, follow Me.’” Bamford continued, “You see, Jesus is seeking ordinary people to do extraordinary things—for Him.” Bamford reflected on TAM’s dramatic presentation, which, based on the passage from Matthew, depicted Peter letting go of his net in obedience to Christ. Bamford rhetorically asked, “What do we need to let go of in order to be of service to the Lord? What is your ‘net’?” Bamford, who had been a pharmacist prior to answering the call to officership, listed other “nets” that have the potential to hold people back from serving the Lord— people who, in that particular audience, were contemplating officership, employment, or soldiership in The Salvation Army. “Is it a dream home, possessions, or even family [that is] holding you back?” he asked. “You are already safe in His hands. And He wants to do something with you!” In response to the message, many knelt at the mercy seat as the song “I’m in His Hands” gently filled the temple. March 2014
territorial newS >>
‘God, where do I put my towels?’
Commissioner Sue Swanson addresses delegates
Robert Mitchell
“T
owels are freshly washed and folded and ready to be put away in the closet, but have you ever noticed—they never quite make it there?” Commissioner Sue Swanson, territorial president for women’s ministries, asked that question at this year’s Candidates Seminar Weekend on the evening of Feb. 8. As a hush fell over the audience at the College for Officer Training (CFOT) in Suffern, N.Y., Swanson said that people will do almost anything to avoid putting towels away, a metaphor for their procrastination in acting on God’s calling for their lives. “[The towels] end up hanging around,” she said. “You know there’s a place for them, but you’ll do everything that you can to avoid those towels. You’d rather move everything else around—even redo the furniture—so you don’t have to take care of the towels.” Swanson used an actual stack of towels to bring her point into clear focus. She said that the Bible is full of people who wondered where to put their “towels”: Elijah, Priscilla, and Aquila, as well as disciples Peter and Matthew, who uprooted their lives to follow Christ. “They put their towels in a different place,” she said. Swanson said everyone in the audience
www.saconnects.org
should have already prayed about what to do with their towels—and whether God was calling them to officership. “Have you just laid the question before the Lord? ‘God, where do I put the towels?’” Swanson then called delegates forward where they each received a small white towel. “Do you want to take your towel and ask God where to put it?” she said. Swanson closed her message powerfully as people clung to the towels, praying for guidance, and sang the praise song “Cornerstone.” Their voices reverberated through the CFOT gym. Lt. Colonel Kenneth W. Maynor, territorial program secretary, told the audience, “After tonight, I don’t think I’ll ever think of towels in the same way.”
‘Extraordinary’ interview The Candidates Seminar Weekend, themed “EXTRAordinary,” began Feb. 7 at Centennial Memorial Temple in Manhattan with the installation of Colonels William and Lorraine Bamford as chief secretary and as territorial secretary for women’s ministries. On Saturday in Suffern, N.Y., delegates chose from three tracks—“Exploring,” “Discovering,” or “Accepting.” They toured CFOT, met with cadets, and learned what it was like to be a Salvation Army officer. To open the praise meeting on Feb. 8, Major Thomas Lyle, territorial candidates secretary, interviewed the Commissioners Swanson. Commissioner Barry Swanson said that his calling to become an officer was a “gradual process.” “I came to a point where, inwardly, I realized that the ministry of the corps officer was what was really attractive to me,” he said. Lyle asked Swanson if that calling is still as real for him today. “Absolutely. There is nothing in the world I would rather do than be a Salvation Army officer. It’s not always easy. It’s not always fun, but it is always rewarding,” Swanson said. 13
territorial news >>
‘Extraordinary acts of courage,’ ‘Radical acts of kindness’
Warren L. Maye
O
n Sunday morning of the Candidates Seminar, Commissioner Barry C. Swanson, territorial commander, challenged the congregation to be like Jesus’ disciples, who demonstrated “extraordinary acts of courage” and “radical acts of kindness.” From the outset, seminar delegates had been bathed in worship. Music from the College for Officer Training (CFOT) Band, a Scripture presentation (Psalm chapter 8: 1–9) by the Territorial Arts Ministries Team (TAM), a monologue by Jonathan Schafstall entitled “Beggar,” as well as the CFOT Gospel Choir and heartfelt congregational singing set a God–honoring tone.
twice called
Colonel Steven M. Howard, secretary for personnel, invites delegates to the platform to publically announce their desire to participate in the Army’s future.
Nate Hinzman, an accepted candidate and a 25–year–old soldier at the Spring Valley, N.Y., Corps, shared how God had called him twice before he finally said “yes.” As a child of officers, Nate said, “My entire life had been spent going to Sunday school, Bible study, playing instruments, going to and working at camp, and all that good stuff.” But Hinzman said none of that “stuff” really set in. Then during the summer of 2010, Nate joined the Hands–On team to Kenya. “And that was one of the greatest experiences of my life,” he said. Seeing the world outside the borders of the United States challenged, rewarded, and fulfilled him in ways he could have never imagined. “As a member of the team, I realized that I wasn’t doing everything I could do for God.” He said that in Kenya, he encountered young people who were on fire for God and were unafraid to preach the Gospel and to take risks—despite limited resources or support. Nevertheless, when Nate returned, he pursued what he hoped would be a career in the secular world. But as he saw the final door to that world close, he received a call from his corps officers who offered him a part–time youth ministry job in Ohio. Swallowing his pride, Nate finally took the job. To his surprise, things worked out far better than he had anticipated. “God revealed to me that this is where He wants me to be. I was challenged, shaped, and molded to share my faith. I was strengthened in ways I didn’t think I could be strengthened.” Nate concluded, “Today, I am humbled to be an accepted candidate for the Messengers of Life session.”
‘Be relevant’ “There is no way that the early followers of Christ could have been considered irrelevant to their society,” said Commissioner Barry C. Swanson, territorial commander. “And that’s what I like best about the book of Acts.”
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During his message, Swanson said he expects that The Salvation Army will encounter criticism for its stand for Christ, or on other issues. But he said what he is most concerned about is when people return blank stares at the mention of the Army. “They don’t know who we are or what we are,” he said. “My concern is that, as with the Christian Church today, [the world] will see us as—irrelevant.” Swanson said that the influence of the early disciples was such that “people watched, followed, and joined them!” Swanson said although the disciples were ordinary men, they demonstrated “extraordinary acts of courage” and “radical acts of kindness.” Swanson challenged his audience by asking, “When people see you, do they take note that you’ve been with Jesus?” Swanson concluded his message by reflecting on a visit to a small Salvation Army corps in the south of London. Although it appeared to be of little significance, he soon learned that, because of its “Mercy Seat in the Street” ministry—whereby individuals prayed at a mercy seat in the open air—an entire community had been transformed, evidenced by a lower crime rate and fewer instances of domestic violence, among other societal yardsticks. “So many people wanted prayer, they would line up,” said Swanson. “The local police asked, ‘Whatever you’re doing, would you keep on doing it?’” Swanson said that such spiritual influence only comes through the Holy Spirit. “It’s not our organization, or our resources, or our ability—it’s the Holy Spirit of God who makes the difference!” While everyone sang the chorus “All There Is of Me,” Swanson issued an invitation to the mercy seat. The area quickly filled. “You can come up to the platform and kneel if you need to,” he said. And many people did.
March 2014
YOUTH Greater evangelistic effectiveness; Emphasis on youth under the age of 30 LEADERSHIP Enhanced leadership development; Emphasis on candidate recruitment MISSION Expansion of Urban Ministries; Emphasis on integrated mission DISCIPLESHIP Deeper discipleship; Emphasis on Bible study and prayer
Pre–registration for Sunday only child care is required. (Space is limited.)
www.boothyouth.com
USA Eastern Territory Commissioners Barry C. & Sue Swanson, Territorial Leaders
territorial newS >>
‘Asking the right questions’ What SA youth want
Chuck Goodin
“Millennials,” also known as Generation Y, are commonly described as young people born between the early 1980s and the early 2000s. Recently, Commissioners Barry C. and Sue Swanson, territorial leaders, held an event called “Catalyst” to provide a forum for millennials in The Salvation Army to discuss their role in the Army’s future.
T
he “Catalyst” weekend started and ended with prayer and worship. Major Jodi Lloyd, associate territorial youth secretary, explains, “We intentionally placed worship and prayer at the beginning, middle, and end of this weekend because we knew that, ultimately, God is the one who guides us and gives us purpose. We want His vision and His insight.” Major Philip Lloyd opened the forum by pointing out that millennials are leaving the Church in record numbers.* “Obviously, we want to change the fact that young people are leaving, but this isn’t about starting another program,” he said. “Sometimes a program is just an answer to a question that isn’t being asked. We have to start by asking the right questions. That’s what our discussion has to be about; that is what our entire weekend is about.”
‘Authenticity’ is key The territorial commander said that the goal of the weekend was simple, “ … listening to one another and to the voice of God.” But he cautioned that achieving such sensitivity to God and to each other
would be challenging. “Now comes the delicate process of sorting out what the Spirit is saying to each of us,” he said. As delegates discussed various topics, they came to a consensus on a number of issues: • Young people love the mission of The Salvation Army, and they are ready to commit to it. • They want to go deeper in their faith in the context of authentic spiritual communities. • They reject a shallow understanding of the Bible or shallow relationships. • They want to live out their faith and mission in the context of a loving community, where it is safe to wrestle with doubt and the hard questions. Overall, they say, they want to be fed spiritually so that they can continue the mission rather than burn out and leave the work. They also want love to be the pre–eminent characteristic of the Body of Christ—love for Christ, love for one another, and love for the lost. Annie Liang, a graduate student and soldier at Har-
lem Temple Corps, said God reminded her that her voice counts. She was impressed with the territorial leaders who “truly care and listen.” “God has blessed me with immense gifts and opportunities to be His hands and feet right where I am,” she said. “I left [the meetings] feeling encouraged, excited, and challenged to step out in faith and in power.” Jennifer Clark, a soldier at the Portland (Citadel), Maine, Corps, said, “I thought this weekend was helpful, because I felt that the facilitators gained a deeper understanding of young adults in The Salvation Army.” “I really appreciated how humble and respectful all of the facilitators were,” she said. “I felt like they really came to listen and learn from their younger brothers and sisters in Christ. I also felt that we, as young adults, were able to get a better understanding of where the older generation is coming from. Increased understanding on both sides will lead to better communication and a more effective church as a whole,” she said. —Chuck Goodin is the young adult, camping, and sports ministries director for the USA Eastern Territory.
* After age 15, nearly three out of every five young Christians (59 percent) disconnect either permanently or for an extended period of time from church life. —The Barna Group
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March 2014
territorial newS >>
Small groups; big ideas Commissioners Swanson talk about Strikepoint
L
t. Colonel Kenneth W. Maynor, territorial program secretary, recently interviewed Commissioners Barry C. and Sue Swanson, territorial leaders, regarding their vision for the small group initiative, a component that will play a vital role in the upcoming Strikepoint conference in Hershey, Pa. The interview was live–streamed on the Internet by the territorial Communications Department. “I think it’s very important for people of faith to come together,” said Commissioner Barry Swanson. “We get encouraged, inspired, and feel strengthened by that and we benefit from one another’s presence. “We are coming together in small groups for the special reason of sharpening our skills as we go more deeply into areas of ministry and mission. We want people to talk, pray, listen, and then discern for themselves how to apply these conversations to their own situation,” Swanson said. Reggie McNeal, missional leadership specialist for Leadership Network of Dallas, Texas, will address the groups. “He is interactive and will contribute to a dynamic time of sharing and learning,” said Commissioner Sue Swanson.
lead
where you are It’s better to be wise than strong ... Strategic planning is the key to warfare; to win, you need a lot of good counsel. Proverbs 24:5 (MSG)
JULY 26 – AUGUST 2
Commissioner Barry added, “Reggie is a strategist for the Church today. He has worked internationally with The Salvation Army in many places, including in Australia, and in various USA territories. He’s
got a macrovision on what God is saying and doing today.” Swanson continued, “Reggie really pushes people and organizations like ours to think outside the box and so, he’s a little bit discomforting—but that’s in a good way.” Swanson believes that McNeal’s opposition to the status quo and his propensity to ask difficult questions will make for an intriguing and thought–provoking dialogue. Commissioner Sue said,“It’s important that members of a particular corps come
in numbers rather than just the corps officer. Don’t come on your own—come with a team. Be in prayer. Ask God to speak. Think about your corps or ARC working together for the Gospel in your community.” Commissioner Barry said, “We need people who are committed to doing something together. They may be new to The Salvation Army. But what matters is that they have a desire and a capacity to make a contribution. It’s going to have a diverse look, I’m sure.” Commissioner Sue agreed. “We should be thinking, ‘What kind of diverse group can I bring from my corps?’” Commissioner Barry said, “Consider bringing people who are on the fringe. The Holy Spirit might say to such a person, ‘I want you to come to this thing for this day.’ And his or her presence might be the catalyst that God will use to change the course of that person’s life and perhaps the course of that corps.” With a smile, Commissioner Barry said, “And it may be that people will get saved at this conference. And that’s okay.” Commissioner Sue looked at him in agreement and said, “Yes, that is okay.”
Draw Near MISSION
DISCIPLESHIP
LEADERSHIP
Warren L. Maye
LAY
LEADERSHIP SUMMIT
2014
Cost: $100 University of New England, Biddeford, Maine In conjunction with the 2014 OOB Camp Meetings To register go to: www.mission.use-salvationarmy.org
OLD ORCHARD BEACH
camp meetings FEATURING Montclair Citadel Band Eastern Territorial Songsters M–Band Laura Story Point of Grace
SPECIAL GUESTS AND BIBLE STUDY LEADERS Commissioners Dick & Vibeke Krommenhoek
JULY 26 to AUGUST 1
2014
USA EASTERN TERRITORY Commissioners Barry and Sue Swanson Territorial Leaders
territorial newS >>
Your ‘paper of record’
Warren L. Maye
ebrating l e c
A
s Good News! embarks on a new chapter in its service to the USA Eastern Territory, we celebrate its 30th birthday as your “paper of record.” In 2010, a series of focus groups brought Good News! and its readers closer than they had ever been before. Feedback from the participants—people like you—led to the redesign of the entire paper. A professional consultant hired to conduct the interviews said candidly, “This group is unlike anything I’ve ever assembled.” Typically, focus group participants are called in a moment’s notice from a waiting list to offer professional opinions on a variety of topics. However, Good News! focus groups were handpicked for their familiarity with the paper, their work with The Salvation Army, and their desire to see a better newspaper. Selecting them took several weeks. Group members were administrators, supervisors, bookkeepers, assistant directors, house managers, cooks, resident supervisors, store managers, lawyers, and employees and officers—both active and retired. They were men and women aged 30–62. They assembled in Philadelphia, in New York City, and in Buffalo. As a result, Good News! made itself more appealing to younger readers and to people outside its usual sphere of influence. Its content became more focused on relevant corps news. “I want Good News! to reflect what I’m doing,” became the phrase that resonated. The paper became smaller and more handy as well as more reader friendly. For the full story on the history of Good News! entitled “You’ve got a newspaper now,”we invite you to visit this link: saconnects.org/gn20thanniversary
Notable events of the past decade covered in Good News!
years
2004
The Salvation Army’s response to the Boxer Day Tsunami
2005
Hurricane Katrina
2006
The election of General Shaw Clifton and the appointments of the Commissioners Gaither as national leaders
2007
The Kaleidoscope Congress, launching the Kroc centers, and the five Generals at Old Orchard Beach camp meetings
2009
The ‘Come Join Our Army’ Campaign
2011
The election of General Linda Bond, Hurricane Irene, and the 9/11 anniversary observance
2012
The ‘Army Essential/Essential Army’ Campaign
2013
The Army’s response to the Boston terrorist attack, Super Storm Sandy, and the election of General André Cox
Commissioning Weekend pp. 8–12
Volume 28 Number 6
The WTC Cross The cross, a fused steel t–joint, which served to support one of the towers before it fell, quickly became a symbol of hope in the midst of disaster. Today, it stands as a monument at the WTC site.
August 2011
The First
11
hours Remembering the events of 9/11 by Warren L. Maye
ON THIS 10 ANNIVERSARY OF THE HORRIFIC EVENTS OF September 11, 2001, Good News! presents a sampling of the many moving testimonies shared by Salvationists who were there. Representative voices highlight the shock, horror, compassion, camaraderie, and determination that many Salvationists felt while serving on the front lines of need during the first 11 hours following the attacks. During that unprecedented time in American history, many officers, soldiers, and volunteers of The Salvation Army brought spiritual healing and practical help to many first responders. (Please be advised that some descriptions are graphic.) TH
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General Bond to make first official USA visit by Robert Mitchell General Linda Bond will make her first official visit to the United States when she speaks during the Proclaimers of the Resurrection session cadet welcome event, starting at 7:25 p.m. Sept. 9 at Centennial Memorial Temple in New York City. And it will be the General’s first trip to the territory since she was elected in January. Commissioners R. Steven and Judith A. Hedgren, territorial leaders, will give spirited support and guidance. Bond was elected to succeed retiring General Shaw Clifton and comes to the role of General with 42 years of experience in Christian ministry and leadership.
USA Eastern Territorial website: www.ArmyConnections.org • Good News! Online: www.SAGoodNews.org • USA National website: www.SalvationArmyUSA.org
General Eva Burrows (Rtd.) in Australia reading Good News! GOOD NEWS! Volume 29 Number 8
SPECIAL EDITION 2012
Photos by Robert Mitchell
Hurricane Sandy Relief
www.saconnects.org
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territorial newS >>
‘The M–Band’ to perform at OOB
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oining Commissioners Dick and Vibeke Krommenhoek, leaders of the Norway, Iceland, & the Faroes Territory at the Old Orchard Beach camp meetings (July 26– Aug. 1) will be Mannssambandet, the Salvation Army’s male vocal group from Norway. “The M–Band,” as the group is also known, will perform the opening weekend along with the Montclair, N.J., Citadel Band, the Eastern Territorial Songsters, and the ARC Chorus. “We are really looking forward to [being] a part of OOB, and feel very honored about that,” Thor Fjellvang, the band’s leader, told Good News! Fjellvang said people can expect a pretty eclectic mix of music from the band. “We like to play different kinds of music, but it’s probably natural to call it pop music, mixed with Gospel, rock, and ballads,” he said. “The most important thing for us is to share all the good things God has done for us, and to give Him thanks for all His blessings to us.”
Fjellvang said that, last year, The M–Band visited Florida, New Jersey, and New York. According to the band’s promotional materials, the M–Band is one of Norway’s most profiled Christian groups and has recorded nine CDs. The band members come from various corps in Norway, and the group has performed in Great Britain, South Africa, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, and throughout Europe. The M–Band was originally created in 1995 for a full day of fund–raising for the Army on national TV in Norway. “Since then, they have pleased different kinds of audiences with their mixed styles of music,”
GNY youth minister in Costa Rica
T
he Greater New York Youth Band and Chorus, Timbrels, Drama, and Dance groups—70 members strong, led by Lt. Colonels Guy & Henrietta Klemanski, divisional leaders—recently traveled to the Latin America North Territory (LAN) to be a part of its Territorial Youth Congress, themed “Resplendence.” About 500 young people arrived at La Montana in the Costa Rican rain forest for the event. That evening, they all gathered for a prayer meeting. A Youth Band ensemble helped set the tone. During the welcome meeting on Friday morning, the band presented “They Shall Come from the East” and “Psalm of Thanks,” and the Chorus ministered with
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“Closer Still.” On Saturday evening, a full concert included the band, presenting as their main items “Servants of God”; “Standing on the Promises,” with soloist on flugel and trumpet, Jon Quatela; and “Send the Fire.” The Youth Chorus contributed “I Love to Sing,” “Psalm 23,” “Love, Grace and
robert MitcheLL
said a promotional release. The M–Band won’t be the only guest musicians at OOB. Point of Grace, a popular Christian singing group, will perform in concert at 7 p.m. on Monday, July 28, accompanied by the Montclair Citadel Band, and the meetings will close on Friday, Aug. 1, with a concert by Laura Story, a contemporary Christian singer. The Krommenhoeks will speak again on Tuesday, July 29, and will be joined by Crossfire Brass, delegates to the LEAD conference, and the Hands on Mission teams, who will be sharing testimonies from their time in India and Zimbabwe. Wednesday, July 30, will feature the Creative Arts Services Team (CAST) performing “Honk!” On Thursday, July 31, The Salvation Army will move all festivities to the Pier and feature Crossfire Brass, territorial evangelists Captains Angelo and Virginia Bermeo, actors, singers, illusionists, and Salvationists offering testimonies.
Gordon Ward
Power,” and “Someone Cares.” The audience appreciated the chorus’s attempt to sing some of the songs in Spanish. The Timbrels were a hit with “En Los Montes,” and “Love Will Save the Day.” The Drama group presented a powerful performance of “Masks,” and the dancers rendered “Glorious.” During the Sunday morning Holiness meeting, Lt. Colonel Guy Klemanski offered a message from God. Standing among the young people who had responded to the call to officership was the first–ever cadet from Nicaragua. The Congress concluded with the ever–popular “I’ll Go in the Strength of the Lord.” On Monday morning, the group travelled in to the capital city of San Jose. Under clear skies, they presented two open–air concerts attended by the British Ambassador who expressed her heartfelt appreciation. March 2014
STAR SEARCH Saturday, June 7, 9:00 am Hershey Free Church www.hersheyfree.com
STRIKEPOINT Saturday, June 7, 9:30 am
COMMISSIONING & ORDINATION Sunday, June 8, 10 am
APPOINTMENT SERVICE Sunday, June 8, 3 pm Hershey Lodge Great American Hall
SPECIAL GUESTS Commissioners Kenneth and Jolene Hodder
USA Eastern Territory Commissioners Barry C. & Sue Swanson Territorial Leaders
territorial newS >>
Promoted to Glory April 16, 1921—January 15, 2014
MAJOR F. DANA BROWN
June 4, 1933—January 11, 2014
MAJOR DOROTHY JANE BAIR
MAJOR MARTHA ARENA FOSTER
MAJOR RUTH JEAN BROWN
Major Dorothy Bair was promoted to Glory from Lena’s Home Care in Akron, Ohio. Dorothy was born into the home of Virginia and Kermis Bair in Dover, Ohio. She worked for a large bank in Akron and volunteered at The Salvation Army during a capital campaign. She fell in love with Christ and the Army. Dorothy was called to be an officer with a strong desire to serve as a medical missionary. She received her RN and a bachelor’s degree in nursing and in psychology, which helped prepare her for several medical appointments overseas in Africa. Dorothy entered officer training in 1953 and served as an assistant at two corps in Ohio before entering special training at St. Luke’s Hospital in Brooklyn. She served at women’s social service centers in Ohio and in Pennsylvania before working at Salvation Army hospitals in London, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Pittsburgh. She served at hospitals, the School for Officer Training, and at men’s social service centers in Pennsylvania and Delaware before retiring in 1995. Survivors include a brother, Richard Bair of Akron, Ohio; a sister–in–law, Patricia Bair of Tallmadge, Ohio; and nieces and nephews, great–nieces and nephews, and great–great nieces. Cards may be sent to Richard Bair, 838 Caddo Ave., Akron, OH 44305.
Major Martha Foster was promoted to Glory from the Taylor Health Center in Bath, N.Y., just a month after her husband, Wesley, was promoted to Glory. Martha was one of seven children born into the family of Charles and Wiona McDonald in Chillicothe, Ohio. She was invited to a Salvation Army Sunday school at age 11 and fell in love with the work. She was the valedictorian of her high school class in Chillicothe. At 15, she was performing secretarial work at the Portsmouth, Ohio, Corps, when she met Wesley Foster. They married in 1942. The Fosters entered officer training from the Portsmouth Corps as members of the Warriors session. They were commissioned and served as officers at several corps in Pennsylvania and in New York. In 1985, the Fosters retired and settled in Jamestown, Pa. In retirement, they conducted evangelistic meetings in many corps and served in post–retirement service at corps in Pennsylvania and as chaplains for seniors at Camp Wonderland in Sharon, Mass. Survivors include two daughters, Major Naomi Kelly of Needham, Mass., and Wiona Breighner of Mt. Vernon, Ohio; a son, W. David Foster II; and seven grandchildren and two great–grandchildren. Cards may be sent to David Foster, 11728 Timberline Drive, Corning, NY 14830–81141 or Major Naomi Kelly, 126 Valley Road, Needham, MA 02492–1105.
february 10, 1927—January 17, 2014 Majors F. Dana and Ruth Jean Brown, married for 67 years, were promoted to Glory just two days apart. Dana was born in Arlington, Mass., to Captains George and Mary Brown. Ruth was also born to officer parents, George and Margaret (Gardephe) Anscombe in Plattsburgh, N.Y. During World War 2, Dana earned a Purple Heart and met Ruth in Boston during his recuperation. In 1946, they married and became soldiers of the Boston Palace Corps. In 1956, the Browns entered officer training from the Boston Central Corps as part of the Faithful session. They served at corps and divisional appointments in Massachusetts, New York, and Ohio. They retired in 1986 after serving as directors of the Ladore Lodge in Waymart, Pa. Survivors include a daughter, Major Janice Joubert of Old Orchard Beach, Maine; three grandchildren, Major Joy Jugenheimer of Spring Valley, N.Y., Tammy Dunmire of Houghton, N.Y., and Robert C. Joubert of Stratford, N.J.; and seven great-grandchildren. Dana is also survived by two sisters, Major H. Estelle Ryans of Portsmouth, N.H., and Verna Hughes of Bradenton, Fla. Ruth is survived by a sister, Marjie Milne of North Quincy, Mass. Cards may be sent to Major Janice Joubert, 161 Saco Ave., Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064. Email: boja15@gwi.net
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may 28, 1923—January 11, 2014
TERRITORIAL EVANGELIST SCHEDULE Territorial Headquarters will be pleased to schedule the territorial evangelists to appear at your corps or unit at no cost to you. Please call the territorial evangelists’ office at (845) 620–7676 for more information.
March 2014
MAJOR GRACE WYNONA HIBLER
BRIGADIER RUTH ELAINE JACKSON May 19, 1926—January 12, 2014
April 30, 1941—January 15, 2014
Major Grace Hibler was promoted to Glory from the O’Brian Nursing Home in Masury, Ohio. Grace was born into the family of Ralph and Mary Hibler in Wheatland, Pa. She accepted Jesus at the Sharon Corps and enrolled as a senior soldier in 1941. Grace heard the call to officership while attending a youth rally. While Grace’s parents were skeptical about her becoming a Salvationist, she soldiered on and became active at the Sharon Corps. She took on several local officer roles, including Singing Company leader, assistant young people’s sergeant–major, and teacher in the Company Guard. In 1946, Grace entered officer training from the Sharon Corps as a member of the Warriors session. A year later, she was commissioned and served as an assistant and corps officer at corps in New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. She later was assigned to divisional headquarters appointments in New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Her longest appointment was at the School for Officer Training in Suffern, N.Y., as financial services officer. In 1990, she retired from active service and settled in Brookfield, Ohio. Survivors include niece Judith K. Hacker of Hubbard, Ohio, other nieces and nephews; and a sister, Stella Hacker. Cards may be sent to Judith K. Hacker, 7300 Stewart –Sharon Road, Hubbard, OH 44425.
Brigadier Ruth Elaine Jackson was promoted to Glory from St. Catherine’s Hospital in Smithtown, N.Y. Ruth was born into the Salvationist home of William and E. Gladys Wilson in Turner Falls, Mass. In 1946, Ruth entered the New York Training College from the Greenfield Corps. She was commissioned to assist at corps in Maine and as a brigade officer. In 1949, she married Lieutenant C. Robert Flinn and they served together at corps in Pennsylvania and in Delaware. He was promoted to Glory in 1964. Ruth then served at corps in Pennsylvania and Connecticut, at Booth Memorial Medical Center in Flushing, N.Y., and at Territorial Headquarters as director of the Employee Relations Bureau. In 1978, Ruth married Brigadier Eric Jackson. Ruth served as director of women’s services in the New Jersey Division while Eric was divisional commander. He was promoted to Glory in 1984. In retirement, Ruth served as a liaison to retired officers. Survivors include a daughter, Barbara Dunn of Hauppauge, N.Y.; a son, William Flinn of Pasadena, Calif.; and grandchildren Matthew, Meredith, Andrew, and Derek. Cards may be sent to Barbara Dunn, 118 South Plaisted Ave., Hauppauge, NY 11788 and William Flinn, 2481 Woodlyn Road, Pasadena, CA 91104.
Major Warren A. Smith was promoted to Glory from Legacy House in Ocala, Fla. Warren was one of three children born to Warren and Audrey Smith in Allentown, Pa. At age 4, he was introduced to The Salvation Army while attending an outpost Sunday school in his neighborhood in Bethlehem, Pa. His family eventually became Salvationists. He met his future wife, Diana, at the Bethlehem Corps when she was 12 and he was 14. They married in 1963 and celebrated their 50th anniversary last June. In 1960, Warren entered officer training and later served as an assistant and corps officer in Pennsylvania and in Delaware. He also held numerous divisional and Territorial Headquarters appointments in the areas of finance, accounting, and business administration. Warren also served as a divisional music coordinator and played in the prestigious New York Staff Band. In 2007, the Smiths retired to Ocala, Fla. Survivors include his wife; two sons, Warren A. Smith Jr. of Glen Ridge, N.J., and Brian K. Smith of Fairfield, N.J.; a daughter, Jill Piercey of Randolph, Mass.; a sister, Loretta Selkirk of Deer Park, N.Y.; a brother, William Smith of Catasaqua, Pa.; and four grandchildren. Cards may be sent to Major Diana Smith, 6375 SW 84th Lane, Ocala, FL 43376. Email dsmithbb@yahoo.com.
April 14, 1925—January 8, 2014
MAJOR WARREN ALLEN SMITH
CAPTAINS ANGELO AND VIRGINIA BERMEO
MAJOR DONNA PETERSON
March 27–30 April 3–6 April 8 April 16–17 April 19–20
March 26–30 April 9–13 April 16–20 April 20 April 23–24
Plainfield Corps, NJ Poughkeepsie Corps, NY Morristown Corps, NJ Norwalk Corps, CT Norwalk Corps, CT
www.saconnects.org
Pottstown Corps, PA Wilkes-Barre ARC, PA Philadelphia ARC, PA Philadelphia Roxborough Corps, PA Holiness Symposium—THQ Conference Center
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