VOL. 3, NO. 3 • APRIL 2017
SUNRISE OVER
page 16
EMPOWERING
OUR YOUTH page 8
SACONNECTS.ORG
THE GENERAL’S
EASTER MESSAGE page 1
IMPROVE
YOUR HEALTH page 26
USA Eastern Territory Commissioners William A. and G. Lorraine Bamford Territorial Leaders
the General’s 2017 Easter message
Think Again! “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” —Acts 4:12 Easter is a time for us to reflect upon the incredible, extravagant, and measureless grace of God. Through Christ, He provided a way for mere mortal human beings to be both reconciled to Him and enabled to enjoy the matchless benefits of a personal relationship with Him. Sadly for many, Easter weekend may not represent anything more than an opportunity to have an extended break from the relentless pursuit of other personal goals and ambitions. We live in a world resolutely turned towards materialism, to the almost total exclusion of the other elements we require in order to find fulfilment and purpose—to be complete and totally satisfied. Modern society offers us many of the things we need from a material perspective, but these are not enough to ensure happiness and freedom. If you think material possessions bring happiness, then think again! You only have to take a look at society today to see the negative effects of materialistic consumerism. Despite all that we have, modern humankind remains unsatisfied, seeking to find the point of our very existence and trying to find assurance that there is something after death. In the midst of that context, the Christian message is unique because the message is not about a set of doctrines and beliefs, but about a person, Jesus Christ. We recognize the fact that we are not perfect people, but Easter brings the hope of new life—one that has been changed and transformed. The fact that we are imperfect is not, however, an excuse to justify a life of continual sin and rebellion. Sadly, we recognize that some people in society have turned their backs on the Church because they feel that Christians are lacking in credibility. We preach love, yet the Church can be the most unforgiving place. We preach spiritual values, yet in reality Christians often aspire to material wealth, power, and influence. We preach justice for the oppressed, but how many of us actually do anything to make a difference? The apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 3:23 that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” It is because of sin that man is unable to enjoy a relationship with God, and this explains why so many of our contemporaries are unsatisfied and seeking. Despite a world that appears to be resolutely materialistic, we do see much evidence of people who search for meaning, who seek spiritual answers to the most preoccupying question of all: is there life after death? Could it be that many in our world today are trying to fill the spiritual void and find ways
through their own efforts to reach the eternal paradise? Jesus came to reconcile the world to God—this is the primary reason for His incarnation. Everything else resulting from the presence of Jesus in the world and in our lives is a direct result of us being reconciled to God. Jesus came to fill the void that separates us from God. What is absolutely extraordinary—and what we need to remember every day of our lives—is the incredible fact that God in Jesus took the initiative in order that we might be reconciled to Him! It is for this reason that Jesus willingly paid the price so that people like us who were considered to be “enemies” could be reconciled as a result: “Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation” (Colossians 1:21–22). What more do you need? Is Jesus not sufficient for you? If you have discovered the blessing and peace that only Jesus can bring, then you will agree with the songwriter* when he says:
— General André Cox *“It is Well with my Soul” by Horatio Gates Spafford (741, The Song Book of The Salvation Army) Bible quotations from the New International Version
Encontrará la versión en español del mensaje del General para la Pascua de Resurrección: “¡Pienselo de Nuevo!” en saconnects.org
IN focus
our leaders
‘Just give us a chance’ ¡Danos una oportunidad! As newly commissioned Salvation Army officers, my wife and I arrived at our first appointment full of energy, passion, and a deep desire to influence our community for Christ. Among the many priorities of those early days was the need to personally meet the advisory board members who were supporting the work of the Army in that community. I can still remember one visit in particular. I was with Norm, one of the longtime advisory board members. It was fairly early in the conversation when he asked me a direct question, “How old are you anyway?” I said, “I’m 25 years old.” Norm replied, “Gee whiz, I have grandchildren older than you!” It was then I looked him in the eye and with all the earnestness I could muster, said, “Just give us a chance and we promise to fulfill our roles, if you and the others will help us!” In The Salvation Army, we are blessed to have many young adults who love Jesus and who really want to serve Him. Many of them are saying, “Just give us a chance” as I did all those years ago. One of the key Strikepoint initiatives of our territory is Young Adult Empowerment. A simple definition of empowerment would be, “authority or power given to someone to do something.” These days, we must listen to, encourage, train, and give our young adults the chance to “do something” for Christ and for The Salvation Army.
— Lt. Colonel / Teniente Coronel James LaBossiere Secretary for Program / Secretario de programa
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Como oficiales recién comisionados del Ejército de Salvación, mi esposa y yo nos presentamos a nuestro primer nombramiento llenos de energía, pasión y un profundo deseo de ejercer un impacto en nuestra comunidad en nombre de Cristo. Entre las muchas prioridades de esos primeros días estaba la necesidad de conocer personalmente a los miembros de la junta asesora que apoyaban la obra del Ejército en esa comunidad. Aún recuerdo una visita en particular. Me encontraba con Norm, uno de los miembros más antiguos de la junta asesora. A poco de iniciar nuestra conversación, me hizo una pregunta bastante frontal: “¿Y qué edad tienes?” Algo sorprendido, le dije: “Tengo 25 años”. A lo cual Norm respondió: “¡Vaya, tengo nietos mayores que tú!” En ese instante lo miré directo a los ojos y con toda la seriedad de la que pude hacer acopio, le dije: “¡Danos una oportunidad, y si tú y los demás están dispuestos a ayudarnos, prometemos cumplir nuestros roles!” En el Ejército de Salvación tenemos la bendición de contar con muchos adultos jóvenes que aman a Jesús y que, realmente, desean servirle. Muchos de ellos dicen: “Danos una oportunidad”, como lo hice yo todos esos años. Una de las iniciativas clave de Strikepoint en nuestro territorio es el “Empoderamiento de Adultos Jóvenes”. Una definición sencilla de empoderamiento podría ser: “autoridad o poder otorgado a alguien para que haga algo”. Hoy por hoy, debemos escuchar, alentar, entrenar y dar a nuestros adultos jóvenes la oportunidad de “hacer algo” por Cristo y por el Ejército de Salvación.
Vol. 3, No. 3
CONTENTS April 2017
IN focus
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1 a message from the General
2 our leaders 4 from the editor 6 ethically speaking 7 reformation 500
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ON file
features
5 relevents Soldier Donna Hannan talks about the book of Luke, and the rewards of teaching Sunday school.
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8 Being the Change
Devonte Thompson is an example of Young Adult Empowerment as a member of the New York Staff Band.
unity
Three soldiers share how the Army is empowering the next generation of Salvationists.
3 0 wholly living
12 Now, I’m All In
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Kaytlin Childs and Shaquan Rainey are leaders at the Lowell, Mass., Corps and an influence on their peers.
Journey to one of the most special and sacred places on earth.
COVER STORY
16 Sunrise over Zambia
FAITH in ACTION 26 to your health
Major Richard Sanchez shares his path to fitness in a new bimonthly column.
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The Army’s ministry in Zambia, Africa provides health care, secondary education, and divine inspiration.
22 The Bunn Family
32 Orange Sunday
Triplets Kameryn, Keith Jr., Kaleb, and brother TJ, found music and spiritual revelation at the Philadelphia Kroc Center.
School coming soon! Soon, you’ll see a lot more of the color orange.
Cover: Ryan Love
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24 Teaching Kids Church
Felipe Concha and Annabel doSantos have a passion for youth ministries.
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2017 APRIL
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IN focus
from the editor
what’s happening at
Learning ‘the ropes’
Deeper Discipleship READING LIST
Aprende “los gajes del oficio” “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
“La cuerda de tres hilos no se rompe fácilmente.” — ECLESIASTÉS 4:12
— ECCLESIASTES 4:12
In the days when mighty winds powered ships at sea, the phrase “learning the ropes” became commonplace. Skilled sailors taught their disciples to tie elaborate knots and to manipulate the riggings that ordered massive sails. In our next SAconnects, you’ll see how Christian disciples learn the ropes of ministry from dedicated teachers and experienced corps officers. You’ll see how “Deeper Discipleship,” one of the four Strikepoints continued by Commissioner William A. Bamford, territorial commander, is helping to revive the seemingly lost art of one–on–one coaching and mentoring. You’ll read stories from people such as Captain Helen Johnson of Clearfield, Pa., who started a JAM (Just Among Moms) group and has discipled many women and taught them the Bible; Regina Reeves, who teaches dance and hosts discipleship programs; and Helen Dunning of East Stroudsburg Pa., a lifelong soldier, who posts “Come to the Lord” videos and is passionately sharing an authentic relationship with Christ. In addition, you’ll discover how small groups are conducting successful one– on–one evangelism at Hispanic corps in Boston, Mass. You’re welcome to join us!
— Warren L. Maye Editor in Chief / Editor en Jefe
En tiempos pasados, cuando los poderosos vientos impulsaban a las naves por el mar, la frase “aprende los gajes del oficio” llegó a ser común. Los habilidosos marineros enseñaban a sus discípulos a hacer complicados nudos y a manipular las jarcias con que se manejaban las enormes velas. En nuestro próximo SAconnects, verás cómo los discípulos cristianos aprenden los gajes del oficio de la mano de maestros dedicados y oficiales directivos experimentados. Podrás ver cómo la “intensificación del discipulado”, uno de los cuatro Strikepoints reanudados por el Comisionado William A. Bamford, comandante territorial, ha estado ayudando a revivir el casi olvidado arte del entrenamiento y la mentoría individuales. Leerás historias de personas como la Capitana Helen Johnson de Clearfield, Pensilvania, quien inició el grupo “Just Among Moms” (Sólo entre mamás) y ha discipulado a muchas mujeres, enseñándoles la Biblia; conocerás también a Regina Reeves, que imparte clases de danza y lidera programas de discipulado; y a Helen Dunning de East Stroudsburg, Pensilvania, soldado de toda la vida, quien postea una serie de videos que llevan por título “Ven al Señor” y comparte apasionadamente su entrañable relación con Cristo. Además, descubrirás cómo varios grupos pequeños se las han arreglado para impulsar una exitosa campaña de evangelismo individual en el Cuerpo hispano en Boston, Massachusetts. ¡Únete a nosotros!
There is a well of resources available to Christians who want to pursue “Deeper Discipleship,” one of the four Strikepoints continued by Commissioner William A. Bamford, territorial commander, and the theme of next month’s SAconnects magazine. The following are just a few titles for your reading pleasure, available now on Amazon.com.
Discipleship (Vol. 4) Dietrich Bonhoeffer
The Soul Winner: How to Lead Sinners to the Savior Charles H. Spurgeon
The Complete Book of Discipleship: On Being and Making Followers of Christ (The Navigators Reference Library) Bill Hull
Discipleship That Fits: The Five Kinds of Relationships God Uses to Help Us Grow Bobby Harrington and Alex Absalom
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relevents
ON file
interview by Hugo Bravo
Donna Hannan, soldier of the Lewiston/ Auburn Corps in Lewiston, Maine, talks about introducing young minds to the Lord through Sunday school, and lessons learned from the book of Luke. Luke has a wonderful verse that reminds me of God’s love. “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet, God forgets not one of them. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Though sparrows may seem small or insignificant, God gives them His full attention and love. When life is difficult, we remember God is always watching over us. He takes care of all the creatures of the earth—from His favorite creations (us) to the tiniest sparrows. My six–year–old daughter, Callie, is an incredibly kindhearted, loving girl with a sly, creative streak in her. I had her when I was 19. Every day I feel blessed to be her mother. She’s a gift from the Lord and I thank Him for bringing her into my life. I am a Salvation Army soldier. I have seen family members become Salvationists. An uncle, who is like a father to me, became a soldier too. As early as I can remember, I attended corps meetings. But when I turned 13, the services began to feel more personal and intimate than other church gatherings I had seen. Today, I’m preparing to enter the College for Officer Training (CFOT) in the fall. I went from attending Army services, to participating in its programs, to becoming a soldier, and finally, to hearing the call to officership. The Harry Potter books are some of my favorites. Besides the “magical” aspects of the books, I think what appeals to me about the series are the students and their teachers. They learn from each other how to become better people. As a teacher myself, I can relate.
photos by Greta Rybus
The most rewarding part of teaching Sunday school is seeing how young minds respond to lessons about God. I teach Pre–K and Kindergarten classes. I love knowing that I can play a part in their spiritual growth. It’s so empowering to see the quietest children in the class ask me to pray for them or they correctly answer questions about the life of Jesus. Children’s faces light up with joy when they learn about God’s love.
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2017 APRIL
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IN focus
Ethically Speaking by Colonel Richard Munn
the magazine
Racism
your connection to The Salvation Army
USA EASTERN TERRITORY TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioner William A. Bamford III Commissioner G. Lorraine Bamford
EL RACISMO Racism is the belief that one’s own race is superior. It is present in us all to some degree and must be rigorously countered. Racism can be subtle and embedded even though people avoid using direct racist terminology. Racism can also be overt, systematic, and cruel, as epitomized by the slave trade, the Holocaust, apartheid, the caste system, and the treatment of indigenous people. The category “race” has no scientific basis. The idea of different races is a social construction.
CHIEF SECRETARY Colonel Kenneth O. Johnson, Jr.
El racismo es la creencia de que la estirpe de uno es superior. Está presente en mayor o menor grado en cada uno de nosotros y debe ser combatido. El racismo puede estar arraigado aun en personas que evitan usar terminología racista. El racismo se expresa de manera demostrativa, sistemática y cruel, como lo evidencia la trata de esclavos, el Holocausto, el apartheid, y el trato que recibieron los pueblos indígenas. La categoría de “raza” no tiene una base científica. La idea de las razas diferentes es un producto social.
The Human Race All humans are created in the image of God. This divine likeness is unique in creation. The Bible emphasizes that all humans share one blood.
La raza humana Todos los seres humanos son creados a imagen de Dios. Esta semejanza divina es única en la creación. La Biblia recalca el hecho de que todos los seres humanos comparten una misma sangre.
The People of Israel Beginning with the fact that Jesus was born and crucified as a Jew, Scripture records the unique role embodied by the people of Israel. Thus, Hebrew culture is forever part of the salvation story. Relations between Jews and Gentiles are part of that story. A Biblical principle emerges: Jews do not cease to be Jews; Gentiles do not cease to be Gentiles. Ethnic differences, however, are to be no barrier to unity in Christ.
El pueblo de Israel Partiendo por el hecho de que Jesús nació y fue crucificado como judío, la Escritura registra el rol único que encarna el pueblo de Israel. Por tanto, la cultura hebrea es y será siempre parte de la historia de salvación. Las relaciones entre judíos y gentiles son parte de esa historia. Un principio bíblico emerge: los judíos no dejan de ser judíos; los gentiles no dejan de ser gentiles. Sin embargo, las diferencias étnicas jamás serán barrera alguna para la unidad en Cristo.
Citizens of Heaven A theme throughout Scripture is the global reconciliation plan of God. The image is one where a multitude “from every nation, tribe, people and language” stand before the throne.
Ciudadanos del cielo Un tema que recorre toda la Escritura es el del plan de reconciliación global de Dios. La imagen es la de una multitud “de todas las naciones y lenguas” parada ante el trono.
Christians find unity in Him, rather than in ethnicity. This counter cultural force is great for an international army.
Los seguidores de Cristo encuentran unidad en Él más que etnicidad. Esta poderosa fuerza contracultural es ideal para un ejército internacional.
COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY Colonel Janice A. Howard EDITOR IN CHIEF Warren L. Maye MANAGING EDITOR Robert Mitchell EDITOR / HISPANIC CORRESPONDENT Hugo Bravo KOREAN EDITOR Lt. Colonel Chongwon D. Kim ART DIRECTOR Reginald Raines PUBLICATION MANAGING DESIGNER Lea La Notte Greene GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Keri Johnson, Karena Lin, Joe Marino STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Ryan Love CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brenda Lotz, Colonel Richard Munn CIRCULATION Deloris Hansen COMMAND NEWS CORRESPONDENTS PENDEL Major Kathryn A. Avery EMP Jaye C. Jones GNY Major Susan Wittenberg MASS Drew Forster NNE Cheryl Poulopoulos PR & VI Linette Luna SNE James Gordon WEPASA Captain Kimberly DeLong Territorial Music Liaison Derek Lance Territorial Youth Liaison Captain Gillian Rogers
THE SALVATION ARMY
MISSION STATEMENT
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. SAConnects is published monthly by The Salvation Army USA’s Eastern Territory. Bulk rate is $12.00 per month for 25–100 copies. Single subscriptions are available. Write to: SAConnects, The Salvation Army, 440 W. Nyack Rd., West Nyack, NY 10994–1739. Vol. 3, No. 3, April Issue 2017. Printed in USA. Postmaster: Send all address changes to: SAConnects, 440 West Nyack Rd., West Nyack, NY 10994–1739. SAConnects accepts advertising. Copyright © 2017 by The Salvation Army, USA Eastern Territory. Articles may be reprinted only with written permission. All scripture references are taken from the New International Version (NIV) unless indicated otherwise.
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reformation 500
IN focus
by Colonel Richard Munn
here we
stand
500 years ago on October 31, 1517, Martin Luther, an intense monk, nailed a copy of his 95 Theses (complaints) to the door of the Wittenberg Castle church in Germany as an act of protest against corruption in the Church. This symbolic action resulted in Protestantism and exerted revolutionary change on Europe’s cultural landscape. While on trial for his beliefs, Martin Luther famously stated, “Here I stand. I can do no other.” We might say this provides context for The Salvation Army. Even today, we stand on the foundational principles and convictions of the Reformation.
»» Personal relationship with Christ »» Salvation by grace through faith »» Primacy of preaching »» Married clergy »» Scripture, worship, and music in the language and idiom of the culture »» Reduced church ritual The Salvation Army is saturated with Reformation values— from married corps officers who greet people in the lobby, to soldiers who preach while on vacation, to reading The Message in a meeting, to a contemporary guitar band playing preliminary music, to an invitation for anyone to share a word in a testimony meeting, to a simple meeting outline, to a centrally–placed sermon, to an invitation to come to a mercy seat and accept Jesus as “your personal Lord and Savior.” This year, let us review what might need to be “re–formed.” Let us lessen unnecessary burdens, enabling us to truly stand—confident, flexible, and free.
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2017 APRIL
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b e i n g
THE CHANGE W
hen Devonte Thompson trains budding young musicians at the Manhattan Citadel Corps in East Harlem, he sees in them a lot of himself. Thompson began attending the corps when he was eight and learned how to play several musical instruments. Now 19, he is the youngest member of the New York Staff Band (NYSB). “People were there for me when I was young and I recognize how much of a difference and change they made in my life,” says Thompson, who displays a humble and unassuming spirit. “I want to make that same difference and change in other people’s lives.” Thompson grew up in Harlem with his single mother and three siblings. The Boy Scouts of America first drew him to the Manhattan Citadel, but he soon learned about the after school program and music school. He became a regular at both programs where he received meals and help with his homework. “It was like a community,” he said. “It was a second home where I could go to have fun with my friends and just enjoy our time together. One thing led to another and—I’m still here.”
and is a featured soloist in both groups. Sometimes, Thompson fills in at the corps for Bandmaster Nathan Power, who called Thompson “one of the finest examples of Salvationism” he has seen. “He is an example of how Jesus uses our programs to bring people to Him, gets them to belong, and believe,” Power said. “Devonte has a commitment and a passion for Christ that is subtle but contagious when you spend any time with him. “He plays multiple instruments to a fantastic level and is readily able to speak and pray when called upon.” Thompson, who can play seven instruments, often chooses the drums and bass guitar for praise and worship on Sunday mornings. He credits Jonathan Quatela, an alumni of the NYSB and an officer, as a major influence. “Everything I know how to play, I learned at The Salvation Army,” Thompson said. On Tuesdays, Thompson teaches music theory to the younger kids at the corps and how to play brass instruments and piano in the music school he once attended.
SUCCESS STORY
PASSING IT ALONG
Today, Thompson plays in the corps band and is the Singing Company leader. He also plays in the Greater New York (GNY) Youth Band and Chorus
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“I feel like I’m giving back what was given to me,” he said. “I learned something and now I’m teaching exactly what I learned. This is what my teachers wanted me to
by Robert Mitchell
do. This is what they were there for—so I could help people after me. “I’m just grateful I was able to go into the program for free. Now I’m able to do the same thing in other children’s lives. I know what my leaders have done for me. They’ve helped me through a lot of things. I don’t know where I would be if I didn’t have those people in my life. It means a lot to me that I can be one of those people for other children in my position.” Thompson’s musical talent on the baritone landed him a spot in the NYSB, which he joined last September. Being the youngest member of such a prestigious band is “nerve–wracking,” Thompson said, especially when he found himself sitting next to one of his heroes. Thompson plays the euphonium in the GNY Youth Band and looked to Aaron VanderWeele, who plays that instrument in the NYSB, as an inspiration.
A DREAM COME TRUE
“It’s weird how this guy, who I was always listening to on YouTube, was now sitting right next me in a rehearsal,” Thompson said. “It gets me nervous, especially since I’m the youngest. “I know how good all of these other players are and I have to strive to be as good or better. It makes me nervous, but at the end of the day, I know we’re all
Devonte (front) leads an openair march in East Harlem.
there for the same reason and that’s to spread the message of Jesus Christ. We strive to be examples of Jesus Christ and to spread the message throughout the world.” VanderWeele said he heard about Thompson’s advanced ability a few years ago and linked up with him for a few lessons. “This quiet, humble kid made a beautiful sound on the euphonium—it was a pleasure to coach him a couple of times,” VanderWeele said. “Since then, through avenues like the NYSB’s Future All Stars Weekend and Star Lake Musicamp, I’ve witnessed him blossom into a wonderful Christian young man who has a keen desire to share his testimony through Christian music making and fellowship.” Star Lake has turned out to be a special place for Thompson, who has attended the music camp for years. In 2013, he rekindled his relationship with Christ there during Youth Councils. That weekend, the “Jesus Theater” presentation and the speakers changed his life.
GROWING IN CHRIST
“It was good to have all my friends around,” he said. “It’s good to have people around me who are willing to make the same sacrifices.” Captains Antonio and Jennifer Rosamilia, corps officers at the Manhattan Citadel, said Thompson has grown physically, spiritually, and musically and shown “excellent integrity at every level.” “We can’t wait for what God has
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in store for Devonte and we remain in prayer,” Captain Antonio said. Besides music, Thompson said he learned humility and integrity at The Salvation Army. “I was taught to be humble like Jesus was and to live a life resembling His,” he said. “I was taught not to boast if I’m successful and to put others before me and to help others. “That’s why I do what I do now and why I am the way I am now.” Thompson has helped Rosamilia conduct open–air meetings and feed the hungry in the East Harlem neighborhood.
A NEIGHBORHOOD OASIS
“That corps is there for those specific people,” Thompson said. “They have a place to go and know that they are loved. “That’s an important part for kids, too. Not everyone has the best family situation. That corps is there for the people who don’t have a safe home to go to. There are people at the corps who kids can trust and rely on. That’s a reason I’m
there. I can be an example to the kids if they don’t have that at home.” When it comes to maintaining his devotional life, Thompson has a bounty from which to choose. Bible verses come to his phone each day and he is fed spiritually at every Salvation Army event. It all begins with church on Sunday. Monday is rehearsal for the GNY Youth Band and GNY Chorus—and devotions. Tuesday is music school at the corps—and devotions. Wednesday is praise and worship practice at the corps—and devotions.
He also hears a devotional at his NYSB rehearsal on Wednesdays.
CHILDREN ARE THE FUTURE
“What I learn in those devotions I try to live the rest of the week and to get stronger in Christ,” Thompson said. “At the end of the day, Christ is the most important thing. Living my life resembling Him just makes my life and the lives of everyone else that much better.” Thompson is a sophomore at Hunter College, where he studies accounting and computer science. He hopes to work
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for The Salvation Army someday and teach music. “I want to continue in The Salvation Army doing what I’m doing now,” he said. Thompson said he believes in the territory’s commitment to Young Adult Empowerment, one of the four elements of the territory’s “Strikepoint” agenda. “It’s good and important to have youth my age lead those children because they’re closer to my generation,” he said. “We can be examples to them as they go through the things we went through. We can show them the way.”
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NOW, I’M
ALL IN
by Robert Mitchell
“Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.” —1 TIMOTHY 4:12
K
aytlin Childs hears the whispers that young people are too young or not experienced enough to be leaders. She doesn’t buy it and is thrilled with the Young Adult Empowerment element of “Strikepoint” as she takes on several leadership roles at her corps in Lowell, Mass. “I really like this whole idea of empowering youth to take leadership,” she said. “It pushes away the stereotype that says ‘kids don’t know much’ or ‘they can’t do anything.’” Childs, the daughter of Captains David and Stephanie Childs, corps officers in Lowell, leads the dance troupe and is involved in Junior Band, Senior Band, the Songsters, and the Singing Company. Tanya Cameron, the Bridging the Gap (BTG) coordinator in Lowell, said Childs has become a peer mentor to some of the BTG students and has invited them to join the dance troupe. “I think one thing our corps fosters is giving leadership to our young people and empowering them,” Cameron said. “Kaytlin has really taken off with that. It started with sacred
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dance and she has morphed into a great leader. “She tries to stretch some of the younger people to get them thinking. When I walk in and see them practicing sacred dance, I’m just blown away at how she’s grown in her relationship with God.”
FINDING INSPIRATION
Childs said her parents were an inspiration. “Watching my parents and their example while growing up, I just stepped into leadership,” she said. Childs, who is 16 and a junior in high school, said she struggled while moving around so much as the child of officers. But at summer camp last year, she had a spiritual reawakening while watching “Jesus Theater.” She saw it several times. “That last week of camp, I was like, this is my life. This is what I want to do with my life. It’s how I want to live my life. It was a powerful moment,” Childs said. “Until then, I had just gone through the motions. Now, I’m all in.
“Being a leader makes me feel like I’m on the right path and I’m doing what God wants me to be doing. I’m not throwing my life away. I’m using it for the right purpose.”
DOING HER HOMEWORK
Childs, like most kids her age, lives on social media. She uses digital platforms to share devotional materials with her dancers. She also carefully chooses the music she uses. “Whenever I pick out new songs, I look into them before I will teach them,” she said. “Before I come up with the choreography, I’ll break down all the words and look for the inspiration for the song. I’ll learn what the words mean so I can tell everyone else. “When it comes to dance, I take the time to make sure I get it first. I just absorb everything and it helps me. When I dance, I feel connected to God and I want the dancers to get that feeling. “If a song talks about looking to the heavens, I tell them,
‘You need to be looking heavenward to God, right now. You need to be feeling Him and reaching for Him.’” Childs has also helped Alivia, Cameron’s daughter, and has served as a role model to many other girls at the corps. Childs said one of the girls she helped had a difficult home life. To help her, Childs chose for the dance troupe a song about God’s promise to never leave us. “I’ve just been trying to get into her head that, even when her family situation is going badly, God is always with her,” Childs said. Childs, who fell in love with Romans 12:2 during her time in Bible Bowl as a young soldier, said she shares that verse whenever she can. “I make sure I’m showing I’m not of this world,” she said. “I’m God’s and I try to spread that truth to everyone. I want them to put their trust in God.” Childs, who wants to study Christian education, is planning to be a youth pastor or an officer.
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2017 APRIL
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of Young Adult Empowerment. He assists with Adventure Corps and is part of the worship team and dance troupe. On a divisional level, he is involved in Mass Brass and Youth Arts Ministries (YAM). “He is always trying to better himself,” says Cameron. “He extends his hand to BTG participants and is always inviting them to church and to youth group. He extends this kindness into school, where he continues to speak to BTG participants and show love and kindness outside of the church. “Growing up without a father has been difficult, but instead of turning to the streets, he has turned to the corps and sought guidance from positive male role models.” Cameron said she is thrilled to see young adults like Childs and Shaquan Rainey, another young person in the corps, being empowered to lead. “If we don’t invest in our young people, what is our community going to look like? What is our church going to look like? They’re an investment and they need more of our time. We need to push them,” Cameron said.
‘SOMEONE LIKE ME’
Shaquan Rainey grew up in a single–parent home. After his family moved from Florida to Lowell, Mass., when he was eight, he started attending The Salvation Army. “The Salvation Army was the best thing ever,” he recalls. Rainey, known by his peers as “Shaq,” grew up in the corps. Today, he is a shining example
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Rainey said his reason for taking on a leadership role at the corps is simple. “I understand these kids because I used to be reckless and I didn’t know Christ,” he said. “They’re just the same. They need someone who is like them. I’ve been where they’ve been. It feels good to talk to them. “I love helping people. I tell them, ‘I’m here and I will do anything.’ I don’t want to see anyone in pain or hurt or sad. I want everyone to be happy and blessed. It makes me feel good. I know God is smiling down on me.”
SHARING INSIGHT
Rainey, as the oldest male teen in the corps, is often asked questions about the Bible by the younger children. “I tell them, ‘Yes, it’s real. Go home and have your brother or your sister or your mom read the Bible to you. The Bible can help you understand.’ “The kids have their parents to look up to, but we’re also here at the church.” Rainey said. “I like to make a huge difference in their lives. It’s so great to see them calm and cheery because that lifts all of us up. It’s a bond we have here at the church.” Rainey loves imparting wisdom to people who grew up fatherless, as he and his three siblings did. “It gives me a lot to talk about,” he said. “They may feel scared or a little bit embarrassed, but I’m not embarrassed to tell how hard it was for me. “I tell them, ‘you don’t necessarily need a birth father. You have a Heavenly Father to help you out with anything you need.’”
‘IT’S MY JOB’
The Bible verse Rainey likes most is John 3:16. “It’s awesome to understand the love He has for us,” Rainey said. “The kids sometimes don’t know that yet, but they have to know it. God’s love will reign forever and it’s my job to tell them about it “They might not have a Bible at their homes. So that’s where we come in and answer all the questions. We have to put hope in these kids.” Rainey calls the “Strikepoint” emphasis on Young Adult Empowerment “important.” “Kids will look up to the oldest ones. That’s me and Kaytlin [Childs],” Rainey said. “They like us. They like to be around us. When all of us teens are together, it’s a beautiful thing.”
Ahora pueden contar conmigo “Que nadie te menosprecie por ser joven. Al contrario, que los creyentes vean en ti un ejemplo a seguir en la manera de hablar, en la conducta, y en amor, fe y pureza.” —1 TIMOTEO 4:12. Kaytlin Childs escucha susurrar que los jóvenes son muy chicos o faltos de experiencia para ser líderes. Ella no se lo cree y se siente muy emocionada con el Empoderamiento de Adultos Jóvenes de “Strikepoint” ahora que ha asumido varios roles de liderazgo en su Cuerpo de Lowell, Massachusetts. “Me encanta toda esta idea de empoderar a los jóvenes para que asuman el liderazgo”, confiesa. “Da al traste con ese estereotipo que afirma que: ‘Los adolescentes no saben gran cosa’ o ‘Los jóvenes son incapaces de hacer algo’”. Childs, hija de los Capitanes David y Stephanie Childs, oficiales directivos en Lowell, dirige el grupo de danza y participa también en la banda juvenil, la banda de adultos, los Cantores y la Compañía de Cantores. Shaquan Rainey se crió en un hogar monoparental. Tras mudarse su familia desde Florida a Lowell, Massachusetts, con ocho años de edad, empezó a asistir al Ejército de Salvación. “El Ejército de Salvación fue lo mejor que jamás me pudo pasar”, recuerda. Rainey, conocido entre sus pares como “Shaq”, creció en el Cuerpo. En la actualidad, es un ejemplo brillante del programa de Empoderamiento de Adultos Jóvenes. Participa en el Cuerpo de Aventureros y forma parte del equipo de oración así como del grupo de danza. A nivel divisional, participa en “Mass Brass” y en los Ministerios Juveniles de Artes (YAM, por sus siglas en inglés). Rainey dice que su razón para asumir un rol de liderazgo en el Cuerpo es sencilla. “Entiendo a estos adolescentes porque yo era inmanejable y tampoco conocía a Cristo”, explica. “Lo mismo pasa con ello. Necesitan a alguien que sea como ellos. He estado donde ellos están. Me agrada mucho conversar con ellos”. Este es un resumen del artículo. Para leerlo completo en español, por favor visite saconnects.org/enespanol .
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photos by Doug Kerr
GIVING BACK
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SUNR
NRISE OVER
The Salvation Army’s ministry in Zambia, Central Africa, has a rich history dating back to 1922. Today, the Army’s work at its Chikankata Mission hospital and Chikankata High School offers hope through practical care, education, and youth empowerment. This year, a media team* from the USA Eastern Territory traveled there and collected video footage and photographs to be used by The Salvation Army World Services Office (SAWSO) for the 2017 World Services Tool Kit. *Joe Pritchard, media director; Johnny Shyr, videographer; and Ryan Love, photographer
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1. Families wait to receive medical care at Chikankata Mission hospital in Zambia, Central Africa. 2. Nearly 700 students receive an education at the Chikankata High School. Families sacrifice in order to pay the tuition. Many of these students will study at the Chikankata School of Nursing or Bio Medic College. 3. Salvationists, proud of their uniform, wear it daily, and are true witnesses to other people in their communities. 4. Families who are fortunate enough to live close to the Chikankata Mission hospital receive vaccinations and routine checkups for their children.
5. BLESSING IN THE CLASSROOM by Hugo Bravo
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Every time Misheal Mweemba walks into the Salvation Army’s Chikankata High School in Zambia, Africa, she finds blessings. Those blessings come through studying her favorite subjects of Greek and math, captivating an audience with her beautiful singing voice, or even discussing the word of God with a classmate. “Even something as simple as a conversation with friends, an exchange of ideas and thoughts on God, is a blessing in its own way,” says Misheal. Having been raised in a Salvationist home, Misheal has always been surrounded by the teachings of the Army. However, at Chikankata, not every student is a Salvationist. “Something I have learned here is to be social and smile, even when I disagree or have different opinions. We appreciate that we are a union, and we share our knowledge with each other. Here, we get opportunities to grow as children of God and to grow as people too.” Misheal remembers the person she was four years ago when she started coming to Chikankata. “I was a bit childish,” she says with a smile. “But through my teachers and my devotionals, I feel like I’ve grown so much as a person.” The growth has also brought about an idea of how Misheal may want to serve the Lord someday. “I want to be a nurse. I have always loved to take care of people, at home and in school.” “Everyone has been given an opportunity to serve. If someone who was born with nothing can do something in the name of the Lord, then what is stopping me?” 6. At this outpost, mothers weigh babies and monitor their growth and health. Women walk for miles to receive this and other information and spend most of the day with women from neighboring villages. Outposts throughout Central Zambia are the only way many families receive medical care and vaccinations for children. This one was about 10 miles from Chikankata Mission hospital. 7. Major Angela Hachitapika is the divisional leader and overseas many of the clinic outposts surrounding Chikankata. Her background and education in nursing provides much knowledge and support to the clinics and families. 8. In the village of John Laing, the Salvation Army corps serves many of the poorest children in the community. 9. The Livingstone Corps is thriving and vibrant. Sunday school is conducted outdoors in the shade of trees. Afterwards, corps members spend hours singing, praying, performing dramas, and hearing what God’s Word has to say.
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10. At Chikankata High School, classes begin at sunrise and finish early to avoid the heat. After sunset, students gather in homework groups to study until late evening. 11. Children worship the Lord at the Livingstone Corps. This day, they celebrate having raised funds to support a local need in the community. 12. Women of the corps express gratitude to God for the generosity of a local soldier who had purchased new offering baskets. 13. This man has raised 13 foster children. He represents men in local communities who, among other things, address the ongoing need for child care. 14. Kids at Chikankata High School spend many evenings enjoying music, dance, song, and soccer. 15. Soldiers of the Livingstone Corps gather many times a week. On Sundays, they start early and stay most of the day, worshiping and praising God.
16. GUIDED BY GOD by Hugo Bravo
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Whenever she can, Soldier Modesta Choomba makes it a point to visit the sick people of her community. “I don’t wait for my corps officer to tell me to go. Sometimes I visit with others, but if there is no one to do it with me, I go on my own.” Choomba says she does this because The Salvation Army showed the same kindness to her when she needed it the most. “I was diagnosed with the HIV virus. For many years, I was sick. I asked God, why is this happening to me? I had two children, and I wanted to have more.” “When I was most ill, members of the local Salvation Army corps came to visit me. When I went to live with my mother, they continued to visit me. Even though I was much farther, and they had no means of transportation, they still walked to visit me.” “They encouraged me to get better, most especially the women. And I realized that it was God who was giving me more days to live.” Choomba says she became a soldier to bring souls to the church, as members of The Salvation Army had done for her. “Every day, I see people in our community who have lost their way, as I had. They don’t know God is still with them, as I didn’t know when I became sick. “Through prayer, and The Salvation Army, I realized my Lord is always with me.” Choomba adopted three children whose parents had died. Years after she thought she would not be able to be a mother again, God blessed her. “Every morning, I pray with my family. I tell my children that without the Lord, nothing is possible,” says Choomba. “Look unto God. When you do, He will guide you, and He will help you look to the future.” 17. Women wear wraps printed with Salvation Army crests and flags as part of their uniform. 18. The daughter of a local seamstress loves wearing the clothes her mother makes for her. Thanks to a loan her mom received from The Salvation Army, she purchased a sewing machine and started a clothing business.
Watch videos on Zambia at saconnects.org/worldservices
THE BUNN FAMILY:
music &service
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ike many people who walk into The Salvation Army’s Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Philadelphia, Pa., Tracy Bunn looked for a gym, rather than a church. That day, Major Dennis Young, corps officer, invited her and anyone taking a tour of the center to also attend a scheduled worship service in the chapel. “When I met with Pastor Dennis, he suggested that I bring my children next time, and gave me a list of programs that they could participate in,” said Bunn. Tracy and her husband Keith are parents to 15-year old Tyler Jackson (TJ), and 13-year-old triplets Kameryn, Keith, Jr., and Kaleb. When they arrived at the Kroc Center, the music program was something they were eager to try, although playing musical instruments was totally new to them. “At our old church, there wasn’t much outreach to young people,” remembers Tracy. “Most of the congregation had been there for over 30 years. There were few kids. For them, Sunday
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by Hugo Bravo
meant going to church, sitting down, and staying quiet.” “But The Salvation Army had programs in place for the children on Sunday, and for their specific age groups,” says Keith, Sr., “I recall going to church with my mother when I was younger, and always being among grown–ups. I never felt as motivated to participate as I would have been if I was worshiping with other children my age.”
MUSICIANS IN THE FAMILY
Today, the Bunns and their children are well known at the center. “I suppose it’s a novelty to see a group of musicians walk on stage who look alike, and are the same age, and height” said Tracy. Their father home schools the children, but their music education, which was something that Tracy and Keith Sr. were in search of for their family, comes from The Salvation
Army. Keith Jr., and his sister Kameryn play the cornet, while Kaleb plays percussion. Older brother, TJ, plays cornet. They all started in the Youth Band, and now sing in the choir and are members of the more advanced Senior Band, despite including the younger–aged triplets. Captain Kevin Zanders, associate administrator for the center, said the Bunns make up more than half the band. “Technically, the senior band is for children older than the triplets,” said Zanders. “It’s a lot to ask of children their age to act like seniors. But they’ve shown great maturity and have exceled in preparing for each Sunday performance.” Zanders also notes the impact they’ve had on their music teachers, such as Ronda Atwater, who started the Joyful Noise music program at the Kroc. Ronda had been there since the first day the Bunns began taking lessons. By 2016, the Youth Band was participating in Star Search. “She had tears in her eyes watching them get ready. Ronda was the one that put instruments in their hands through the Joyful Noise music program, and now they were representing us in Star Search,” says Zanders.
SCRIPTURE IN THE HOME
Tracy credits the people she has met through the Army for teaching music to her children. They’ve enjoyed a world of fellowship, mentoring, and interaction with the teachers and other young people at the center. “The Salvation Army has gone beyond a Sunday activity for us,” says Tracy. “Everything from my own women’s group to the music teachers and staff of the Kroc has created a community here. We get to be around folks who love the Lord as much as we do.” Tracy sees the children’s knowledge of Scripture as proof that The Salvation Army has awakened something in her family. “They can’t wait to get to the Kroc every Sunday. And when we come home, I never have to remind them to read their Bibles. They do it on their own. They can quote
passages and verses from Scripture. It’s brought them closer to the Lord, and it’s brought us closer as a family,” says Tracy. “That’s something I had always hoped to see in my household—lively discussions on the Word of God.” “I can’t get over how much the children love going to the Kroc center,” beams Keith, Sr. “Four days a week, they’re there. I could never imagine being in church so often when I was a child, but I also never saw so many extracurricular activities within a church either. We feel lucky and blessed to be part of The Salvation Army.”
BEYOND MUSIC
Even though they continue to play important roles as musicians for their corps, the four Bunn children have begun to take on interests beyond performing. Kameryn and Keith Jr. would like to one day be music and Sunday school teachers. Tracy taught Sunday school for three years at the Kroc. Kaleb has noticed the Army’s community outreach and food banks. “It’s great to play music,” he says. “But I also like knowing that, when my performing is done, I can also donate my time to help others in His name.” As the oldest sibling, TJ, has already forged a path to serve the Lord, inspired by Major Dennis Young. Two years ago, Young chose Tyler to deliver a Sunday sermon. He practiced for weeks, studying verses, notes, and Scripture with his mother. After Tyler had delivered his sermon, the congregation gave him a standing ovation. Major Young nicknamed him “The Preacherman.” TJ was one of 25 Senior Soldiers to be enrolled by Commissioner William A. Bamford, territorial commander, last December. Soon after, TJ told his parents that he would like to be an officer one day. “Pastor Dennis showed me that you can be funny, downto-earth, and still preach the Word of God,” says Tyler. “Now, I’m thinking of one day becoming a pastor too.”
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2017 APRIL
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teaching kids
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elipe Concha and Annabel do Santos are often asked about becoming Salvation Army officers. “Maybe in the future,” says Felipe. “Not right now,” says Annabel. Raised in The Salvation Army, the married couple is currently called to pour their lives into the New Jersey Division and particularly into the lives of young people at the Red Bank, N.J., Corps. “There’s a greater reward for us
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CHURCH
individually and spiritually to work with children and be able to teach them at such a young age,” Annabel says. “There’s just something rewarding in teaching about Jesus. “The kids are enthralled. They’re intrigued with what I’m talking about. They’ll ask, ‘Did that really happen? Is God real? Is Jesus real?’ That just keeps us coming back. Seeing them develop and grow and have a relationship with the Lord is so rewarding.”
by Robert Mitchell
SOLD OUT FOR CHRIST
Felipe, 33, and Annabel, 31, have been at the Red Bank Corps for a year, after working with youth in White Plains, N.Y. Annabel is the corps ministry assistant in Red Bank and in charge of a popular after school program. She also teaches various youth programs and helps with most corps activities. Felipe, the assistant music director in the New Jersey Division, instructs
children at the corps in playing brass instruments. He also teaches Sunday school and leads the corps band, praise and worship, and Singing Company. The New Jersey Division recently made Felipe the coordinator for Young Adult Ministries and Mission at Divisional Headquarters (DHQ). “We’re just called to youth ministries,” Annabel says. “It’s not like we made a spreadsheet on what career path we should take. The Lord put into place all of the steps that needed to happen so we could be here, working with children.”
BRIDGING THE GAP
Felipe, who grew up in Chile and Bolivia, came to the United States 10 years ago and was in the first graduating class of the former Railton School for Youth Worker Training. As a divisional and corps youth leader, Felipe loves the Young Adult Empowerment aspect of “Strikepoint.” “We have seen the gap that exists in the local church,” he said. “We want to help the church empower its people and its children so they can grow. We want them to understand that this is their place and their congregation. From a young age, this is where they encounter family, friends, God, and the Holy Spirit.” Annabel said young adults can be game-changers in a corps. “Young adults are in the middle,” she said. “You empower these young adults and they are relatable to both the children and to older adults. That’s powerful. That will get a lot of work done for God.” Felipe also sees an importance in empowering adult lay leaders, who maybe have a 9-5 job.
HOMEGROWN TALENT
“We want to empower those people to let them know there is also a place for them at the church,” he said. “The one or two
hours a week they can give to the church will be used by God.” Annabel, whose family came to the United States from Argentina, grew up in the Hempstead, N.Y., Corps on Long Island. Like her husband, she would like to see more young adults empowered with leadership. “I think sometimes there is a separation because of age,” she said. “There’s this thought, I’m not seasoned enough or experienced enough to be a good leader. But it just comes to your heart for the Lord. “Just love the kids and love whatever it is you’re doing. As long as you’re focused on doing it for God, then that will come together the way it’s supposed to come together.” Annabel shows that love to the 20 kids between the ages of 6-12 who attend the afterschool program from Monday to Thursday. They learn music, creative arts, drama, and more.
LASTING IMPRESSIONS
“Those kids are coming to church on Sundays too,” she said. “When they come during the week, regardless of the event, we call that ‘church.’ We tell them, ‘This is your church. This is your home away from home. You’re welcomed here, you’re loved here, and this is where you come to find God.’” Annabel still remembers her Sunday school teachers and music instructors and is well aware of the legacy she and Felipe are creating. “When I see the kids doing brass and learning how to play a note for the first time, I remember what that was like,” she said. “I know they’re also going to remember.” Annabel said the best part of teaching lessons from the Bible to children is seeing the lesson idea “click in their head.” “We get to see spiritual development,”
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she said. “We see them understand their spiritual gifts and build their faith. That’s what keeps it fresh all the time.”
THE FAITH OF A CHILD
Felipe said he enjoys “the freshness” of a child realizing he or she is loved by God. “They truly believe it—with no boundaries,” he said. “There are no predisposed thoughts or ideas. They just know someone loves them and it makes their day.” Felipe also enjoys listening to the children’s prayers and helping them develop their own style of communicating with God. “I have been blessed by the simplicity and the deepness that comes with the prayer of a child,” he said. “It becomes contagious. They pray for everybody. It is a blessing to see the purity of their faith.” Annabel and Felipe both have strong and intentional devotional lives to prepare for teaching. Felipe counts the holiness apostle Samuel Logan Brengle among his favorite authors. Annabel, who also maintains a varied reading list, said she is serious about “being prepared.”
LITTLE WARRIORS
“I take preparation seriously. I take my time with it. I actually think about it before putting pen to paper,” she said. “Worship music plays a big part in helping me focus on God and in strengthening my faith.” Annabel said as her young charges learn more about the Bible and grow in Christ, she envisions “building an army.” “We’re training these soldiers. They may be small, but when spiritual darkness comes against us, I know these kids are going to fight for God,” she said. “That’s my part in the Kingdom of God—training up young soldiers. Whether they remember me or not, they’ll know that Bible story, and they’ll know that prayer, and they’ll have faith.”
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MY
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J O U R N
“Another day, another death.” That was my mantra following morning workouts at the East Northport, N.Y., Corps. In the corps gym, training of all sorts happens. The people of East Northport and the surrounding area are big on sports for kids and adults. One of the ministries at the corps was our fitness class. Following the workout, members would share Scripture and pray together. In November 2011, my transformative fitness journey began. I remember taking a class in the morning with Ralph Rossetti, our recreational director, and his group. They were men and women. Some were older than me and some were younger. That first session was the baseline; the frame of reference; the cold, harsh realization that I was no longer twenty-something and could just will my body to cooperate. No longer could I proclaim to myself that I was healthy because of my age or because I was free from chronic disease. Actually, my health was waning. I had dismissed murmurings about it. My ears heard them, but my mind disbelieved them. To me, they were a figment of someone else’s imagination. However, reality checked in one day during a visit to my
“Un día más, una muerte más.” Ese era mi mantra tras mi sesión de ejercicio físico cada mañana en el Cuerpo de East Northport, New York. En el gimnasio del Cuerpo hay todo tipo de entrenamiento. Los residentes de East Northport y del área circunvecina prefieren los deportes para niños y adultos. Uno de los ministerios en nuestro Cuerpo era el de la clase de acondicionamiento físico. Una vez terminada la sesión de entrenamiento, los integrantes leían la Escritura y oraban juntos. En noviembre de 2011, inicié mi jornada para el acondicionamiento físico transformador. Recuerdo que tomaba una clase por la mañana con Ralph Rossetti, nuestro director de actividades recreacionales, y su grupo. Eran hombres y mujeres. Algunos eran mayores que yo y otros más jóvenes. La primera sesión fue el punto de partida; el marco de referencia: el frío y severo conocimiento de que ya no tenía veintitantos años y que no estaba en mis manos que mi cuerpo cooperara. Ya no podía decirme a mí mismo que estaba sano debido a mi edad porque no tenía ninguna enfermedad crónica.
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La realidad era que mi salud estaba cada vez peor. No atendía a lo me decían. Mis oídos los oían, pero mi mente no les daba crédito. Para mí, no eran más que invención de las personas. Sin embargo, la realidad se hizo presente un día durante una visita al doctor. Las ecografías mostraban “todo bien” en los escáneres de mis riñones, pero de paso escuché al doctor decir: “Mire usted, mientras estudiábamos la imagen, nos encontramos con… un hígado graso”. Era un término médico usado para describir una condición causada, en mi caso, por la hipertensión. Los exámenes que me hicieron también mostraron niveles “fuera de rango”. Para ayudarme a manejar esa condición y también mi sobrepeso, me recetaron medicamentos de diversos tipos y de miligramajes altos. Además se me dijo que debía cambiar mi dieta. Al comenzar mi primer día en el gimnasio, sentí que mis pulmones se encendían en fuego. El corazón parecía
to your health
FAITH in ACTION
by Major Richard Sanchez
EY
M I CAM I N O HACIA LA SALU D FÍS ICA
doctor. Sonograms showed “all clear” on kidney scans, but peripherally, I heard the physician say, “Oh, while we were there, we saw—a Fatty Liver.” It was a term used to describe a condition caused, in my case, by hypertension. Physicals also showed “out of range” levels on my blood tests. To help deal with it as well as my weight, I was prescribed drugs of various kinds and in increasing milligrams. Something was also said about changing my diet. On my first day at the gym, my lungs felt as if they were on fire. My heart seemed to beat out of my chest. My mouth was dry. I was dehydrated. I made multiple trips to the bathroom, for air, for water, and to make sure my soul hadn’t left my body. The workout was only 30 minutes, but it felt like 3 hours. Unfortunately for me, I also launched my resolution in the middle of the Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle fundraising season. I talked privately with Ralph and asked if he could recommend an eating program I could follow while I did kettles. He looked me straight in the eye and said, “Food is the Devil.” I waited for him to burst out laughing. But there was no laugh, no smile, no qualifying statement. So I laughed and
told him to “get serious” and give me a program, an outline, or some lifeline I could grab while in the stormy sea of Christmas. He looked at me, and said, “You have to stop eating all sweets.”
salírseme del pecho. Mi boca estaba seca. Estaba deshidratado. Fui varias veces al baño, en busca de aire, de agua y también para asegurarme de que mi alma todavía no hubiese hecho completo abandono de mi cuerpo. La sesión de ejercicios duraba sólo 30 minutos, pero me parecieron 3 horas. Por desdicha para mí, empecé a cumplir mi resolución en medio de la temporada de recaudación anual de la Olla Roja que realiza el Ejército de Salvación. Hablé en privado con Ralph y le pregunté si me podía recomendar una dieta que pudiese seguir mientras trabajaba con las ollas rojas. Me miró directo a los ojos y me dijo: “La comida es el demonio”. Esperé que se echara a reír. Pero no lo hizo, ni sonrió siquiera, ni hizo ningún comentario tranquilizador. Yo en cambio solté una carcajada, le dije que se pusiera serio y me recomendara una dieta en particular, una rutina de comidas especiales, o algo a qué aferrarme mientras pasaba el tormentoso mar de la Navidad. Me miró detenidamente y dijo: “Tienes que dejar de comer dulces”.
DECLARACIÓN DE ‘MUERTE’ AL YO
‘DEATH’ TO SELF
Practically, that meant no more visits to 7/11® in the summer to buy 64oz bottles of soda, diet or otherwise. No more visits to coffee shops to get the New York style “caw-fee lite n’sweet.” I wasn’t even allowed to have cream. At first, this radical change seemed insane. But I soon learned that my cravings for sweets had to die before my body could truly live again. That December—historically the month when corps officers typically put on a few pounds—I lost 15. In future articles, I’ll share more about what has helped and what has hindered me in my personal journey to better health. I hope you’ll grab something valuable to use in your journey. We share different stories, but our struggles are the same. For now, stay away from processed sugar, “the white death.” I’ll talk about it, next time.
En términos prácticos, eso significaba que se acababan las visitas a la tienda Seven Eleven en el verano para comprar refrescos, azucarados o dietéticos, de 64 onzas o del tipo que fuera. No más visitas a los cafés a comprar ese rico café llamado “caw-fee lite n’sweet” al estilo “Nueva York”. No se me permitía siquiera agregarle crema. Al principio, ese cambio radical me pareció una locura. Pero pronto aprendí que mi ansiedad por consumir alimentos y bebidas dulces tenía que morir para que mi cuerpo pudiera realmente volver a la vida. Ese mismo diciembre —históricamente el mes en que los oficiales directivos solían echarse unos kilos de más encima— yo perdí 5. En artículos futuros, contaré lo que más me ha ayudado y se me ha dificultado en mi marcha hacia un mejor estado de salud. Espero que algo de eso les aproveche en su propio camino. Compartimos historias diferentes, pero nuestras luchas son las mismas. Por ahora, manténganse alejados del azúcar procesado, “la muerte blanca”. Les hablaré al respecto la próxima vez.
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2017 APRIL
27
ON file
unity
Through music and arts education, sports programs, and spiritual guidance, The Salvation Army has made youth outreach an integral part of its mission. In this “Unity,” three soldiers share how they witnessed first hand the Army’s efforts to empower the next generation of Salvationists.
하나님과 나만의 길 찾기 구세군에서 다년간의 교회학교 선생님으로서 초 등학생부터 고등학생들을 통해 하나님의 말씀이 얼마나 학생들에게 영향력이 있는지 배울 수 있 었습니다. 유아부나 초등학생 아이들은 부모님이나 혹은 친
Finding the Talent Within When I enter a Salvation Army corps, I notice that there’s no single focus on just one aspect of the teachings of Jesus, nor on one way to worship Him. Whether it’s through dance, music, athletics, or something completely different, I will always find Christ and in a way that empowers me. In October of 2014, I suffered a concussion while playing soccer. I fell backwards doing a step over on the ball and hit the back of my head. I remained conscious, so I didn’t think the injury would be serious.
구처럼 현실적으로 예수님을 직접 볼 수 있는 누
After a brief rest, I imagined I’d be playing again and participating in tournaments. Unfortunately, I was wrong. Doctors determined that my soccer playing days were over. But God had another plan for me. I began taking music classes at the Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Camden, N.J. I sang in a play called “This Beautiful City.” The performance helped me overcome shyness. Soccer had been everything to me. It was how I bonded with my father. It was the talent I thought God had given to me for life. But He took it away to help me see there are other ways to develop connections with Him. God put talents within all of us. They deserve to be revealed and enjoyed. The Salvation Army is a church that empowers me physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It connects with every part of me, and brings out gifts that God has placed in me that I never imagined.
군가로 생각합니다. 그래서 성경에 나오는 예수님 의 이야기나 예수님의 생활에 흥미로워 하고 알 고 싶어 하여서 예수님의 이야기들로 가르치고 나누며 또 그런 예수님이 우리 각자를 얼마나 사 랑 하시는지 그런 모습들로 어린 아이들에겐 힘을 주고 예수님의 사랑을 알아가는 것을 배웁니다. 십대의 학생들은 완전히 다릅니다. 학생들은 이
미 하나님께서 우리를 사랑 하신다는 것을 알고 있습니다. 그리고 거기서부터 예수님에 관하여 궁금한 것이 나타나기 시작 합니다. 더 자세하게 예수님이 구체적으로, 생활을 통하여 어떻게 가 르치셨는지 궁금해 합니다. 그럼과 동시에 하나님
— Lena Marlowe is a soldier at the Ray & Joan Kroc Community Center in Camden, N.J.
은 나의 삶을 통해 어떤 방법으로 일하시고 교회 를 사용 하실까 궁금증을 만들도록 말씀을 나눕 니다. 하나님이 사랑하신다는 것을 알지만 왜 우 리를 사랑 하시는지 그리고 어떤 방법으로 또한
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Sal de tu rutina 실질적으로 우리의 일상 생활에서 사랑을 나눠야 하는지 알고 싶어 합니다. 이런 궁금증을 새로운 태크널러지와 소셜 메디아 를 접목해서 논의의 주제로 만들어 의견을 나눕 니다. 페이스 북, 트위터, 인터넷 등등 현대 문명 과 어떻게 예수님과 접목해야 하는지를 논의 하 도록 합니다. 예수님 이라면 어떻게 이 모든 것을 일상생활에 접목 하셨을까? 이 작은 질문들이 모여 궁금증을 만들기 시작 합 니다. 저는 학생들에게 무조건 많이 궁금해 하고 질문을 많이 하도록 유도 하고 격려를 합니다. 왜 냐면 그것은 하나님과의 관계를 형성하고 각자의 것으로 구체적이게 만들어 나가기에 가장 중요하 고 하나님께 접근하기 쉬운 방법이기 때문입니다. 어릴 적 교회에 출석 하는 것은 주로 부모님을 그 냥 따라서 혹은 할아버지, 할머니가 교회에 출석 하는 관계로 그저 전통이나 습관처럼 교회에 오 는 경우가 많습니다. 그 궁금증들을 유발 하는 이 유는 “왜 예수님을 믿니?” 하고 물었을 때 “왜냐 면 우리 부모님이 크리스천이기 때문이야” 라고 대답하길 원치 않기 때문입니다. 저의 부모님도 구세군인은 아니시지만 오랫동안 하나님을 알고 믿으셔서 부모님을 쫓아 교회를 다니고 예수님을 배웠습니다. 그것이 시작의 문을 열어 주었습니다. 성장하면서 구세군에서의 오랜 신앙생활을 통해 저는 하나님이 저만을 향한 유 일하신 방법으로 하나님을 가르쳐 주시고 계신것 을 압니다. 또 그렇게 알아가고 만나가고 있습니 다. 제가 그랬듯이 또 많은 믿음의 성도님들이 그리하셨듯이 우리 교회학교 아이들 도 하나님이 계획하신 뜻이 각자의 특별한 경험 과 방법으로 하나님과의 관계를 만들고 쌓으며 형성해 나가길 기도합니다. 하나님과 우리의 실질적이고 개인적인 관계를 찾 아가는 그 걸음은 크리스천으로서의 놀라운 능력 과 힘을 실어주는 것입니다. 황진(오)은 구세군 뉴욕한인교회 부교이다.
Cuando los jóvenes del Ejército de Salvación agarran un instrumento musical por primera, algo puede despertar en su interior. Una tarde dedicada a practicar música también pude ayudar a un muchacho a olvidar por un rato las dificultades de la vida. El Ejército de Salvación es único por la manera en que enseña y premia a los estudiantes talentosos. Estos acceden a oportunidades de participar en eventos como Future All-Stars (Estrellas del futuro). Viajan, hacen sus presentaciones y conocen a otros jóvenes salvacionistas. Estas ocasiones son importantes porque el Ejército opera en muchos lugares en los que los niños rara vez viajan fuera del estado o incluso de la ciudad en que nacieron. Encontrarse lejos de casa, pero rodeado de salvacionistas con los cuales comparten un talento en común, es inspirador. Además de la emoción de tocar un instrumento, a veces los sentimientos de empoderamiento nacen del hecho de ver a otros niños iniciar su propio caminar con Dios. El año pasado asistí a la ceremonia de Comisionamiento junto con mi familia. Había asistido a ese tipo de eventos en el pasado, pero ese año me pareció diferente y sentí un impacto emocional mucho más poderoso que en años pasados. Ver sobre el escenario a los cadetes que habían respondido al llamado a servir me impulsó a trabajar aún más duro para llegar a ser mensajero de Dios. Me ayudó a ver con mayor claridad la obra que aún me queda por hacer
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por Él a lo largo de mi vida. El Ejército de Salvación muestra a los jóvenes salvacionistas como yo que no tienes que ser adulto para sentirte capacitado para compartir la Palabra de Dios. Compartes Su Evangelio cada vez que participas en un ministerio al aire libre, tocas música durante un servicio, ayudas a pintar un edificio en tu vecindario, o le sirves una comida a una familia que sufre hambre. El servicio comunitario es una hermosa manera de dar a conocer la Palabra de Dios, en especial si te encuentras en un lugar nuevo. Más que en el extranjero, la oportunidad podría presentarse en tu propia ciudad y en un sector que no te sea familiar. Pero así como el oficial en el extranjero se sobrepone a la ansiedad de servir por primera vez en un lugar desconocido, tu propia ansiedad pronto se transforma en entusiasmo por hacer algo nuevo en nombre de Dios. Sea que toques un instrumento o que sirvas en un lugar completamente nuevo, Dios siempre se complace cuando Sus hijos se atreven a salir de la rutina en Su nombre. ¡Y eso sí que empodera! — Giovanni Romero, Jr. es soldado en el Cuerpo Union en Union, New Jersey.
2017 APRIL
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ON file
wholly living
the golden path to the
Higher Life in God
by Major Young Sung Kim
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. —PHILIPPIANS 4:6–7
I would like to take you to one of the most special and sacred places on earth. That place is called Trinity Monastery located in Meteora, Greece. Three years ago, I had the privilege with my wife, Major Soo Kim, to visit this area through our territorial educational tour program. I still vividly remember how amazed I was by this breathtaking site. The monastery exists in a rocky and mountainous area near several other monasteries. The area is represented as having one of the richest heritages of monastic spirituality in the Eastern Orthodox Church. Take a moment to imagine how impossible it would seem to build a monastery on such a high and rocky place. Monks started on bare ground and with few materials. We can only wonder how the first group of monks who founded this unique place poured their tireless labor into a seemingly endless process to build this monastery. Think about the inspiration needed to build the monastery and the challenges that came with doing so. Think about the dedication it took and the anxiety it invoked. Consider the monks as they climbed the mountain, burdened by every rock in their hands and each stone on their shoulders. Consider their desires and motivations as they climbed.
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C O M M I S S I O N I N G 2 0 17
I believe they had a holy longing to pursue a higher life in God. For them as monks, the unimaginably difficult labor must have been considered a sacred way of fulfilling God’s call. I understand that monks are the people of God with a special vocation to set themselves apart from the world in order to pray for the world. This is the monk’s chosen path to that higher life. If I could, I would ask the monks these questions: “What is the goal of the higher life in God? What is the path to experience it in this life? Does this goal belong only to a few chosen people?” In Philippians 4:6–7, Paul teaches us the golden path to the higher life in God. Amid severe persecution, Paul pours out advice to the church in Philippi through his letter to them. In doing so, God’s word comes to life. It is crystal clear that it is God’s desire and our privilege that we reach the goal of experiencing a higher life in Him. The goal, according to Paul, is having the heart and mind which is guarded by the peace of God in Christ Jesus. This is fundamental to scriptural holiness. How does Paul say we walk this path? First, he urges us to “not be anxious about anything” (v. 6a). Second, in order to live worry free, we need to be focused, prayerful, and thankful. The key word here is thankful. What do you do when anxiety strikes? Does it overwhelm you? How do you respond? Paul encourages us to ask for God’s will with “thanksgiving.” Finally, God will grant His peace in our hearts and minds. This is good news for us as His children. The result of a devoted, prayerful life with thanksgiving will be that “the peace promised here is far more than an absence of conflict. Rather, it is a total well–being, and it comes from Godonce again, to those who are in Christ Jesus and who share His attitude, so that His ‘heart and mind’ become theirs,” emphasizes one commentary. Like those monks, we are in partnership with God to build a sacred space on bare ground. Instead of monasteries, we are to build lives. In life, there are days full of inspiration and hope and there are other days full of anxiety and burden. However, no matter what the days hold, we have a sacred task to accomplish with God. He is calling us to a higher life. Our goal is to have the heart and mind that is in Christ who is the source of true peace. Without a doubt, this is the God–given expectation and privilege every Christian must seek and experience. God knows our desires for Him and our daily thirst for peace. It is my hope and prayer that, while we are serving God through the ministry of The Salvation Army, we will allow the Lord to continually help and guide us. In our daily walk with Christ, may we pursue the golden path to the higher life in God. Let us follow Paul’s example and enjoy the peace of God, which “transcends all understanding (v. 7).” —Major Young Sung Kim is the Territorial Ambassador for Holiness
JOYFUL
INTERCESSORS
MOBILIZE: GO FORWARD!
June 9–11
Westchester County Center
198 Central Avenue White Plains, NY 10606
Special Guests Commissioners James M. & Carolyn R.
KNAGGS
Led by Commissioners William A. & G. Lorraine
BAMFORD
w w w.saconnec ts.org/commissioning
USA EASTERN TERRITORY
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COMMISSIONERS WILLIAM A. & G. LORRAINE BAMFORD TERRITORIAL LEADERS
FAITH in ACTION
Orange Sunday School Coming Soon!
by Robert Mitchell
You may have already heard the buzz about “Orange” at your corps, but you’re going to hear a lot more as The Salvation Army unveils a new Sunday school curriculum for all ages. Major Jodi Lloyd, the associate territorial youth secretary, said 18 corps have piloted the Orange program, which will launch nationwide in June (in English and Spanish). “This is a great opportunity to rethink Sunday school,” said Lloyd. “Imagine what the possibilities can be. Your Sunday school could completely change and become a fun place to come and hear about Jesus.” Lloyd said the color orange is used to illustrate the curriculum’s family–based model. Orange is made from the colors yellow and red. Yellow represents the church and red represents the home. Major Kim D’Amaro, the territory’s Christian education director, said, “The idea is that the influences make a greater impact when brought together.” Major Joy Jugenheimer, corps officer in Spring Valley, N.Y., said she loves the emphasis on family. “While we don’t always have complete families, Orange does give us tools to help equip parents to be the spiritual leaders of their children or help them grow in their faith,” she said. The teaching is video–based and is followed by age– appropriate activities and discussions. “The video piece is phenomenal since we’re in such a visual society,” Jugenheimer said. “For those corps that don’t have a lot of leaders, I think this is going to be a little bit freeing. The teachers don’t have to be as deeply knowledgeable about the Bible as they might think. “In today’s society, kids don’t sit,
listen, and write on a worksheet anymore. To learn better, they seem to need to move and play.” The adult portion of the curriculum features Facebook and other social media prompts to help students review the lesson during the week. “It’s keeping the faith conversations going beyond Sunday,” Jugenheimer said. Smart phone apps allow parents to review and share what their children are learning. “If parents don’t feel confident being the spiritual leader yet, this gives them some tools,” Jugenheimer said. Janelle Simpson–Luna, the Sunday school coordinator in Spring Valley and a public school elementary teacher, is excited that the new curriculum is “not paper and pencil” based, but involves activities and new technology. Simpson–Luna said the youngest of her two children already loves listening to the music videos from the parent app. “She keeps saying, ‘More Jesus! More Jesus!’” she said. “I can follow up as a parent and I think the videos are amazing. “The kids have been interested and into the videos. They got their attention. Every kid was engaged; watching and listening.” You can check out what’s happening on boothyouth.com or thinkorange.com. Workshops will be offered during Commissioning Weekend, June 9–11. “Everyone is excited that this is going to bring some new energy and life to our Sunday school program,” Simpson– Luna said. “How will you rethink the way Sunday school is done in your community? Imagine, dream, create, and consider the possibilities Orange has to bring real transformation to your corps and community!”
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Discount for employees of
Salvation Army
Applies to select regularly priced Sprint monthly data service.
Mention this code for the Sprint Discount Program. Corporate ID: NASVA_ZZZ Activ. Fee: $36/line. Credit approval req. SDP Discount: Avail. for eligible company employees or org. members (ongoing verification). Discount subject to change according to the company’s/org’s agreement with Sprint and is avail. upon request for select monthly data svc charges. Discount only applies to data svc for Sprint Family Share Pack and Unlimited, My Way plans. Not avail. with no credit check offers or Mobile Hotspot add-on. Other Terms: Offers and coverage not available everywhere or for all devices/networks. Restrictions apply. See store or sprint.com for details. © 2017 Sprint. All rights reserved. Sprint and the logo are trademarks of Sprint. Other marks are the property of their respective owners. N125248CA MV1234567
“
Every year we would get a charitable gift annuity with The Salvation Army. This helps me, it helps my daughter, and it helps the Army.
”
- Celia
We Couldn’t Agree With You More, Celia.
The Salvation Army is excited to have a giving opportunity that furthers our mission AND benefits our dedicated and generous donor friends and members. Our work could not reach all those who need our ministry and services if it weren’t for “the army” of support we have. It is an honor to have the trust of Salvation Army Gift Annuity donors, like Celia, and it gives us great satisfaction to know they are pleased with the way this gift opportunity meets their needs for income and for putting their money where their values will be reinforced for generations in the future.
Our Gift Annuity can provide 4 Fixed Payments for Life
4 Possible Income Tax Charitable Deduction
4 Possible Tax Free Income
4 Peace of Mind & Accomplishment
Rate examples: At age 75 the payment rate is 5.8% and at age 85 the rate is 7.8%
For further information, please contact: The Salvation Army, Department of Special Gifts 440 West Nyack Road, West Nyack, NY 10994 (845) 620-7297 17PG5SA104