SAconnects, Volume 3, Number 4

VOL. 3, NO. 4 • MAY 2017

the magazine

bringing us closer to the mind and heart of Christ

People Do Need the Lord

SACONNECTS.ORG

p. 12

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Building Children’s Lives

p. 18

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Your Devotional Life

p. 21

C O M M I S S I O N I N G 2 0 17

JOYFUL

INTERCESSORS MOBILIZE: GO FORWARD!

Special Guests Commissioners James M. & Carolyn R.

KNAGGS

Led by Commissioners William A. & G. Lorraine

June 9–11

BAMFORD

Westchester County Center w w w.saconnec ts.org/commissioning

USA EASTERN TERRITORY COMMISSIONERS WILLIAM A. & G. LORRAINE BAMFORD TERRITORIAL LEADERS

198 Central Avenue White Plains, NY 10606

our leaders

IN focus

DEEPER DISCIPLESHIP

Intensificación del Discipulado “Lasting mission is always a product of authentic discipleship. By intentionally cultivating spiritual disciplines, we will be brought closer to the mind and heart of Christ.”

— Commissioner Barry C. Swanson former territorial commander, USA East “Read your Bible, pray every day, and you’ll grow, grow, grow!”

It’s just an old Sunday school chorus, but it packs so much wisdom into those few words. Reading the word of God and spending time with Him in prayer are both basic ways to grow in one’s spiritual life.

God’s word reveals His character and helps us to know how He wants us to live. Studying the Word and committing it to memory are both ways we can draw closer to Him and become more like Him. Prayers of thanksgiving, praise, confession, and intercession are all ways we can communicate with Jesus. We should also wait on God and listen to what He is saying to us.

In addition to reading the Bible and praying, there are other ways to draw closer to Jesus. Practicing spiritual disciplines such as fasting, silence, service, solitude, worship, and submission are time–honored steps to deeper discipleship.

Fellowship with other Christians and corporate worship are also important to our spiritual growth.

We would do well to follow Paul’s advice to the Philippians, “Continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe–inspired fear and trembling [using serious caution and critical self–evaluation to avoid anything that might offend God or discredit the name of Christ]” 2:12b (AMP).

— Lt. Colonel / Tte. Coronela Patricia LaBossiere Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development Secretaria Territorial del Departamento de Desarrollo de la Vida Espiritual

“Una misión duradera es siempre el producto de un discipulado auténtico. En la medida que cultivemos intencionalmente las disciplinas espirituales conseguiremos acercarnos más a la mente y al corazón de Cristo.”

— Comisionado Barry C. Swanson antaño comandante territorial, Territorio Este EUA “¡Lee tu Biblia, ora todos los días y crecerás, crecerás, crecerás!”

Así dice la letra de un viejo coro de la Escuela Dominical, pero es mucha la sabiduría que encierran esas pocas palabras. Leer la Palabra de Dios y dedicar tiempo a Él en nuestras oraciones son dos maneras imprescindibles de crecer en nuestra vida espiritual.

La Palabra de Dios revela Su carácter y nos ayuda a saber cómo quiere Él que vivamos. Estudiar la Palabra y aprenderla de memoria son dos maneras que nos permiten acercarnos más a Él y llegar a ser más como Él.

Las oraciones de agradecimiento, alabanza, confesión e intercesión son maneras en que podemos comunicarnos con Jesús. Debemos además permanecer atentos a Dios y escuchar lo que nos está diciendo.

Además de leer la Biblia y orar, hay otras maneras de acercarse a Jesús. La práctica de las disciplinas espirituales como el ayuno, el silencio, el servicio, la soledad, la adoración, el sometimiento a Su voluntad y muchas otras son pasos adicionales ya consagrados por el tiempo que hacen posible un discipulado más profundo.

El compañerismo con otros cristianos y la adoración corporativa también son importantes para nuestro crecimiento espiritual.

Haríamos bien en seguir el consejo de Pablo a los Filipenses: “Sigan esforzándose en procurar su salvación [esto es, cultívenla, complétenla en toda su dimensión, logren activamente su madurez espiritual] con temor y temblor [mostrándose muy cautelosos y críticos en su autoevaluación para no incurrir en nada que pudiese ofender a Dios o desacreditar el nombre de Cristo]” 2:12b (Amplified Bible, de la que traducimos este pasaje al español)

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2017 MAY

1

¡ TRIUNFARÁN !

The Hispanic Ministry of The Salvation Army

by Frank E. Payton We are indebted to Colonel Frank Payton for this book. In tracing the history of the Salvation Army’s work among Spanish–speaking people in the United States and in Puerto Rico, he reveals not only a cultural and sociological story that is important in understanding our history, but also the work of God in bringing people to salvation.

$14.95

Softcover

Buy 12 or more - $11.99 (20% Discount) Item # 0202111 - in English Item # 8200217 - In Spanish

To order, contact: USE.Trade@use.salvationarmy.org or call 888-488-4882

Commissioner Barry C. Swanson

eBook $3.99 available on

Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com

in both Spanish and English

T H E

S A L VA T I O N

A R M Y

E A S T E R N

T E R R I T O R Y

COMMISSIONERS WILLIAM A. & G. LORRAINE BAMFORD

Vol. 3, No. 4

CONTENTS MAY 2017

IN focus

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18

1 our leaders 4 from the editor 6 ethically speaking

ON file

5 relevents In the midst of addiction, Phillip Russ finds spiritual mentors and God.

29 testimony Soldier Grace Paré sees the Word of God in pictures.

30 wholly living

29

features

See the universe in your own “backyard.”

FAITH in ACTION 8 Moms Find JAM

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Deeper Discipleship is the goal of these women in Clearfield, Pa.

that they find Him.

Regina Reeves began attending church. The decision changed her life.

21 Your Devotional Life

15 Love Where You Live

A Salvation Army officer’s life is dictated by frequent moves to new corps and other duties. Their homes are not their own, and they usually receive short notice that it’s time to pull up stakes and move to the next location.

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Hot coffee, a couch, and a Bible? What people do daily to enter God’s presence.

26 Guided By God

28 Cultivate

18 Building

Children’s Lives

32

Learning God’s word at the College for Officer Training includes a special group of undergrads—kids.

Cover: iStock

Take a course in Spiritual Life Development.

Youth focus

32 Calling All Heroes!

Need the Lord

Helen Dunning believes everyone needs the Lord—and she does her best to see

10 Soaring Again

Fauta Estebes’ most dangerous experience of her life.

12 People Do

Para leer más artículos en español por favor visite

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SACONNECTS.ORG/ENESPANOL

2017 MAY

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IN focus

from the editor wins EPA Awards

Skilled Leadership Liderazgo Especializado “ I leave you with the image of the leader with outstretched hands, who chooses a life of downward mobility. It is the image of the praying leader, the vulnerable leader, and the trusting leader.”

— Reflections on Christian Leadership: In the Name of Jesus, by Henri J.M. Nouwen In the next SAconnects, we’ll explore the concept of “Skilled Leadership,” one of the four Strikepoints continued

by Commissioner William A. Bamford, territorial commander.

You’ll read the dramatic story of Andy Iorio as he shares an inspiring vision for his life, discovered through the territory’s Lay Leadership Development Bureau (LEAD) Summit.

We’ll also share with you the story of one officer who, after enjoying the euphoria of the International Congress in London, returned to the United States, faced with the task of rebuilding a corps congregation from the ground up. “A good leader is not afraid to take chances,” says Major Doris Gonzalez.

“What may start looking imperfect at first, becomes perfect in the eyes of the Lord when it is done in His name.”

Other stories will leave you with leadership images as seen through the eyes of Salvationist students from Houghton College who served in the aftermath of recent storms in Louisiana.

We’ll round out the issue with a multiethnic, multilingual, and multicultural tribute to a beloved divisional leader.

Don’t miss it!

— Warren L. Maye Editor in Chief / Editor en Jefe

“ Te dejo con la imagen del líder con las manos extendidas, que decide humillarse. Es la imagen del líder que ora, el líder vulnerable y el líder confiado.”

— Reflexiones sobre el liderazgo cristiano: En nombre de Jesús, por Henri J. M. Nouwen En el próximo número de SAconnects, exploramos el concepto de “Liderazgo especializado”, uno de los cuatro Strikepoints continuados por el Comisionado William A. Bamford, comandante territorial.

Leerála historia dramática de Andy Iorio, que nos relata una visión inspiradora de su vida, la cual descubrióen la conferencia territorial de la Oficina de Desarrollo de Liderazgo Local (LEAD).

También contaremos la historia de una oficial que, tras disfrutar la euforia del Congreso Internacional en Londres, regresó a los Estados Unidos con la responsabilidad de reconstruir un Cuerpo por completo. “Un buen líder no teme arriesgarse”, dice la Mayora Doris González. “Lo que al principio puede parecer imperfecto, se perfecciona a los ojos del Señor cuando se hace en Su nombre”.

Otras historias te dejarán imágenes de liderazgo desde la perspectiva de estudiantes salvacionistas de Houghton College que sirvieron en Louisiana tras las recientes tormentas que afectaron a ese estado.

Redondeamos este número con un homenaje multiétnico, multilingüe y multicultural a un querido líder divisional. ¡No te lo pierdas!

In April, the staff of SAconnects magazine received four achievement awards at the annual Evangelical Press Association (EPA) Convention in Chicago, marking five awards received from EPA in just two years. The magazine also maintained its ranking among the top five denominational magazines in America.

Colonel Janice Howard, communications secretary, praised the staff for its work.

“It is with a grateful heart that I notify you of several awards, which have been given to SAconnects,” she wrote in a staff memo. “Several months ago, we submitted articles and photography from year 2016 to be considered.”

“Congratulations are extended to Warren Maye and the Editorial, Graphic Design, and Photography teams. It is an honor to have won several awards.

We continue to push forward to bring excellence in all areas of our work and ministry for the glory of God.”

SACONNECTS AWARDS Article: General, Long [ 1ST PLACE ] “I’m Worth Something,” a story about the Hartley House for homeless men in Springfield, Ohio, written by Robert Mitchell (April, 2016)

Feature Article Design [ 4th Place ] “A New Chapel, A New Life,” the Tim Humphrey story (ARC, Wilkes–Barre, Pa.) designed by Lea La Notte Greene (July/Aug., 2016)

Single Photo Controlled [ 5th Place ] “The Glory Shop Launches in Times Square,” featuring Lieutenants Munn–Shirsath; Susan Magnano, photographer (May, 2016) Denominational Magazine [ Award of Merit ] (second year in a row) The War Cry and Young Salvationist, Salvation Army national magazines, also won awards.

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relevents

ON file

interview by Hugo Bravo

Phillip Russ, a graduate of The Salvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) in Trenton, N.J., talks about his children, how they helped shape his worldview, the importance of living in the “right now,” and lessons from the book of Job.

I have two daughters, but I know they belong to God. My oldest, Jacklyn, is a film student in college. My youngest, Nadia, just turned 18 and runs track for her school in Georgia. I have such admiration for my girls; they are both intelligent, respectful people and they’ve changed my worldview. I grew up in a radical, militant, mostly African–American culture. It was easy to look at America and see only racism.

But when my daughters got older, they invited friends home of all colors and backgrounds. This helped me change my view of people, which was important for my recovery.

A spiritual elder asked if I had the patience of Job. I didn’t know what that meant, but I simply nodded “yes.” Years later, I learned it meant going through hardships, but not being angry at God. That patience was with me when I lost my mother to cancer. At the ARC, I realized I could admit to God I was in pain, but still trust His will. My mother had been the embodiment of God’s goodness in my life, but I accepted that He needed her more than I did.

We should all know the day when God breathed new life into us. For me, it was September 1, 2015, the last day I got high. I remember walking inside a drug dealer’s home, and inside was a prayer closet, and the drug dealer’s wife was listening to a sermon playing on TV. God will make His presence felt anywhere, even in a crack house. The dealer said to me, “I can’t put my finger on it, but something about you tells me you do not belong here.” God had put His mark on me.

God has provided mentors throughout my life. I never knew my real father. I grew up respecting street hustlers. But my grandfather showed me what a real man is. He had a 3rd grade education, but all of his children attended college. As an adult, I met Greg, who had been an addict—like I had become. Now, Greg was sober and worked in an office. He no longer had vein marks on his arms. He was a graduate of the Salvation Army’s Trenton, N.J., ARC and had made the first call to get me into the program. When I arrived at the ARC, I did not know how to pray. I met Marcel who became my spiritual mentor. He introduced Right now, focus on what you can me to the book of Psalms and said do for others. As you read this, know to me, “Phil, God already knows there’s an addict under a bridge taking a you, so just talk to Him.” hit of drugs. There’s someone in a hospital that has overdosed and is fighting for his or her life. God loves us and can work through us today, right now.

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2017 MAY

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IN focus

Ethically Speaking

by Colonel Richard Munn

the magazine

your connection to The Salvation Army

USA EASTERN TERRITORY

REFUGEES

TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioner William A. Bamford III Commissioner G. Lorraine Bamford

REFUGIADOS Abraham, Moses, the Israelites, Jesus, and members of the early Church were all refugees. Scripture is forceful with the admonition to care for the alien and foreigner in your midst (Lev. 19:33, Deut. 10:19, and Ex. 22:21).

While the displacement of people due to hunger, hardship, or hostilities is invariably part of our story, today it is the sheer number of refugees and asylum seekers that is unparalleled in history.

What principles can guide us in response to this human need?

HUMAN HISTORY The concept of “alien” and “foreigner” is central to the self–awareness of the Old Testament Israelites. At times, key figures were aliens in a foreign land.

At other times, an entire people—a nation—was in such a predicament.

HUNGER AND HORRORS During a famine, Abram and his family relocated to fertile Egypt. In the New Testament, identification with the plight of refugees continues. The infant Jesus starts His life as a refugee when His parents must flee to Egypt and escape the brutality of a despot king.

HOSPITALITY AND HEALING Today, such resilience, resourcefulness, and adaption still form the refugee fabric.

A sure agent of healing in that regard is the hospitality of the host people.

The people of God are exhorted to welcome and serve the alien. We might say the biblical definition of hospitality is to treat a foreigner like a brother.* * The word xenophobia (Xeno meaning foreign; phobia meaning fear) or “fear of foreigners.” The New Testament Greek word for hospitality is philoxenia (philo – brotherly love; xenia – foreign).

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Tanto Abraham, como Moisés, el pueblo de Israel, Jesús y los integrantes de la iglesia primitiva fueron, en algún momento, refugiados. En respuesta a estos hechos, la Escritura es perentoria en su exhortación a cuidar a los inmigrantes extranjeros y a los que se encuentran en tu medio (Levítico 19:33; Deuteronomio 10:19; Éxodo 22:21).

Si bien el desplazamiento geográfico de personas y hasta de pueblos enteros debido a hambre, dificultades u hostilidades ha sido parte invariable de nuestra historia como género humano, en la actualidad es el altísimo número de refugiados y solicitadores de asilo político lo que no tiene paralelo en la historia humana. ¿Qué principios pueden orientarnos a responder a esta necesidad humana?

LA HISTORIA HUMANA El concepto de “inmigrante” y “extranjero” es un aspecto integral de la conciencia que los israelitas del Antiguo Testamento tenían de sí mismos. A veces, las figuras clave fueron extranjeros en tierra extraña.

EL HAMBRE Y LOS HORRORES En el Nuevo Testamento, la identificación con la difícil situación de los refugiados continúa. El niño Jesús empieza su vida como refugiado cuando sus padres deben huir a Egipto para escapar a la brutalidad de un rey déspota.

LA HOSPITALIDAD Y LA SANACIÓN En la actualidad, ese tipo de resiliencia, de ingeniosidad y de adaptación sigue conformando la esencia de lo que es ser refugiado. Un probado agente de sanación en ese sentido es la hospitalidad del pueblo anfitrión. Se exhorta al pueblo de Dios a acoger y servir al inmigrante. Podríamos decir que la definición bíblica de hospitalidad es tratar a un inmigrante como a un hermano.

CHIEF SECRETARY Colonel Kenneth O. Johnson, Jr. 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, Major Young Sung Kim 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. 4, May 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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As October 31, 2017 marks the 500–year anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, it is appropriate that the USA Eastern Territory recognize this seminal event. More than

r and nailing Sunday school children dressing up as Martin Luthe er, or a soliparchments to door frames on the last Sunday in Octob is something this ical, period tary editorial in the October edition of a which can be explored with subtlety and depth.

Stand Thus, we will host the “Reformation 500: Here We Crestview ped equip ifully beaut own Theological Symposium” in our Conference Center. academic Presenters will spend 30–40 minutes sharing prepared the direction of a papers, which will be available to attendees. Under will respond to moderator, an audience Q&A will follow. Presenters questions and offer further insights. our western The Reformation exerted transformational change in ce: understanding of church, clergy, and culture. For instan world–wide. ns inatio denom 0 40,00 Church – There are now over laity funcwith ns egatio congr Clergy – Many self–governing local tion in leadership roles. ing and proCulture – The state serves as the main conduit of learn time. duces a contemporary idiom that is changing all the USA South; our r, Mille Andy We are delighted to feature Captain on, USA Reard own Major Young Kim, USA East; and Major Amy unicators with West as presenters. In addition to being gifted comm qualifications bounteous personal graces, each bring more than ample and academic rigor.

Who can come?

appreciate Everyone and anyone who can commit to the day and market, niche a is this and benefit from the exercise. In some ways lves ourse push an acquired taste; but, let’s not be deterred. We must n micia and acade and discover the inner theologian, church historian, of our Army within. The end result can be a greater understanding n. missio and a clearer focus for our contemporary The event will Admission is free, though reservations are required. . be webcast to a global audience, both live and in replay us? with stand you Will ers. reform Here we stand, colleague

iStock (3)

— Colonel Richard Munn, Territorial Secretary for Theolo

gy and Christian Ethics

FAITH in ACTION

Moms find JAM

by Captain Helen Johnson

“ Lasting mission is always a product of authentic discipleship. By intentionally cultivating spiritual disciplines, we will be brought closer to the mind and heart of Christ.”

— STRIKEPOINT, DEEPER DISCIPLESHIP

A

long the Susquehanna River, deep in the mountains of Western Pennsylvania, lies a small rural town that usually goes unnoticed unless one stops for lunch there along Interstate 80.

An interesting fact about Clearfield, Pa., is that it is the place where people have made the most “Bigfoot” sightings. As a young, city–raised Salvation Army officer, moving to Clearfield was culture shock. I didn’t own any camouflage (camo), had never hunted, and I moved at a fast pace.

But during the past two years, I’ve learned that, no matter where I’m stationed, people still have hurts, struggle with sin, and need the Lord. One thing that stands out about the people of Clearfield is their desire for hope. With limited access to colleges and information on what life has to offer, many kids lack the motivation to succeed.

The number of suicides committed in this small town amazed me. Because everyone knows everyone, having a bad reputation is harder to overcome.

In an effort to make friends shortly after moving here, I started a group for

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moms at the corps. It was called Just Among Moms (JAM). It’s not as huge as Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS), but it brings women together in a way that nothing else does.

At one meeting, a woman talked about living too close to a housing project and being nervous about putting her child on the bus with “those kids.” In the weeks to come, more moms from that housing project began coming to JAM. That same woman eventually testified she is learning how not to judge others.

Another mother who has lived in Clearfield all her life attends JAM regularly. She has four children. They include one who is severely disabled, another who is deployed in the military, another who is questioning her sexuality, and one who has a reputation neighbors will not let her forget. The mother eagerly cares for the daughter’s two children. The mother’s husband, who is on a donor list and is waiting for a liver transplant, struggles with an addiction to pain medication.

She discovered The Salvation Army through our “Back to School Giveaway.”

Her grandchildren also received an invitation to attend Vacation Bible School (VBS). After she and the kids enjoyed VBS, they came to the after–school program and JAM. She soon brought her grandkids to church and became the cook for after–school programs.

This mother said she doesn’t feel judged at The Salvation Army. At JAM, she loves getting to know and talk with the other moms and grandmothers. Her older granddaughter will be enrolled soon as a senior soldier and she is also considering soldiership.

Another woman who attends JAM has twin 4–year–old boys and a 1– year–old girl. Having been hurt during a previous church experience, she is cautious about getting involved.

Many times, JAM meets in a local coffee shop, making it easier for her to feel comfortable. Her baby has ongoing health concerns and she has needed other women to vent to, encourage her, and rely on.

We were so glad to find a coffee shop that was willing to let us hang out with our kids. One week, a mom nursed while our little ones ate doughnuts and

DEEPER DISCIPLESHIP

Recently at the Clearfield Corps, Captain Helen Johnson (right) set up a craft session for JAM members. Decorating Easter baskets is just one of many projects that bring moms together in ways ‘nothing else does.’

watched cartoons. We shared and prayed for hours. The mother of the newborn talked about how lonely she feels being home and never having a chance to talk to other women.

Another mom, who attends sporadically, knew she could turn to me and to the other women when she was afraid her son, who attends our after–school program, might have a heart problem.

When she received this news, she prayed for the first time. She testified that her time with us had inspired her to pray. Her son’s additional tests were negative. God answered her prayer.

While this group was originally designed for moms of young children, I realized right away that God was also leading older women to come. They’ve mentored us younger ones as we’ve blessed them.

An older woman said, “JAM is important because it gives me an opportunity to spend time with Christian women who accept me just as I am.

I had been feeling lonely before being invited to JAM, and this group has helped to fill the void. We can talk about our spiritual lives or raise questions,

which I don’t find possible in other gatherings. Since my children have grown up and moved away, being around young children is heartwarming.

“The clear Christian leadership we receive helps us women stay focused.

We engage in activities with humor and compassion while in each other’s company. I have developed friendships with new women and have been reintroduced to old friends.”

JAM has become an important discipleship group. We share advice, give encouragement, and pray together while the younger children play. We plan activities every other week, such as scrapbooking, baking, painting, and trips to the playground or indoor play spaces.

We’re sure to schedule what I call “discussion time.” It’s an opportunity to share our devotional thoughts about God and to encourage many women who are not churchgoing Christians.

The Clearfield Corps has the Army’s traditional Home League and there is a MOPS group in our area. However, there was a need for a more intimate group for moms where women from all walks of life are welcomed and not

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judged. Such women need to know they are not alone. Moms and grandmothers from the city or the country, old or young, on welfare or well off, all struggle to know the love of God and to be a good wife and mother.

I have learned not to be disappointed when moms say they can’t make it to a meeting. Such events become opportunities to schedule a one–on–one visit or a play date with a mom. We’ll meet in the coffee shop or at her home.

Problems with their children are causing so many women to ask questions of God that cannot be answered during the few hours of a church service. They need to be discipled through intimate relationships with people.

I thank God for the opportunities He has given me to help struggling moms. I’m learning that we don’t always need to have complex programs. We simply need to come together with a willingness for authentic friendship and a determination to defeat the devil’s attempt to get a foothold.

— Captains Kevin and Helen Johnson are corps officers in Clearfield, Pa.

2017 MAY

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FAITH in ACTION

Soaring Again

by Robert Mitchell

“ But those who hope in the

They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

—ISAIAH 40:31

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T

hree years ago, life had grounded Regina Reeves. She may have been finally rising out of an abusive marriage, but Reeves was deeply depressed. All day, she lay in bed, crying.

But in the midst of her tears, she would notice the smiles and laughter of her four children as they entered the house. They would try to cheer her up by explaining how much fun they had at the Salvation Army Worship & Service Center in Lima, Ohio.

“I was miserable,” Reeves recalls. “I didn’t want to do anything. I thought, Life is supposed to be better than this.

What am I supposed to do?”

During one of her late–night crying spells, Reeves decided to pray—and earnestly this time.

“I gave my all to what I was praying for that night,” she recalls. “I felt like I had hit a brick wall. Suddenly, all my worries just went away. It was odd. It was the first time I had felt relief in a really long time.

“I just had this overwhelming feeling that I needed to go to church.”

A NEW LIFE Reeves, 36, did not grow up in the church. She had visited many congregations over the years, but never felt comfortable anywhere.

“I always felt like I was out of place,” she said.

Three years ago, that feeling ended when she attended The Salvation Army during Easter.

“As soon as I walked in there, I felt like I was at home,” she said. “It was amazing. I started slowly attending here and there and then I started attending more.

“I didn’t feel like people were criticizing me. They actually took steps to make me feel like I was welcomed. I never felt that way at any other church.”

Reeves began taking advantage of the discipling programs at the corps and grew in her Christian faith. That’s the goal of the “Deeper Discipleship” element of “Strikepoint.”

Known around the corps as “Gina,” she attended Sunday morning worship.

She soon found herself also enjoying small group fellowships, women’s

Photo courtesy of Regina Reeves

Lord will renew their strength.

DEEPER DISCIPLESHIP

ministries, prayer groups, and Bible studies.

FINDING REFUGE “It was hearing them on Sundays. The more they talked about Jesus, the more I wanted to know about Him,” Reeves said.

“The more I went to church, the better I felt. The more activities I did, the more relief I felt. I believe it was a calling to do as much as I could through the church.”

Reeves, who became a senior soldier last March, was soon asked to help with Sunbeams and the corps dance team. She recently taught her first junior soldier class.

The preparation to teach forced Reeves to dig deeper into the Bible.

She says that has been a major source of spiritual development and growth.

“I would teach younger people what I was learning. We were learning together. To know I’m personally teaching a person and helping them get a step closer to God, is amazing to me,” she said.

Once withdrawn and awkward in social situations, Reeves said she is becoming bolder because of her responsibilities as a church leader.

SHARING GOD’S WORD “I’m a shy person. So, for me to be able to stand up in front of people and read a Bible verse and give a benediction, is a lot for me,” she said. “Now, I’m comfortable. I’m not afraid to do it.”

Today, when she reads a powerful verse or the lyrics of a Christian song that deeply affects her, she often shares those moments on Facebook and on other social media sites.

“If [the verse] touched me, I believe it will touch someone else,” Reeves says.

Her devotional life consists of listening

to worship music, sermon podcasts, and reading her Bible. Isaiah 40:31 is never far from her thoughts because of the past abuse she endured.

“I finally got the courage to say, ‘I’m not taking this anymore.’ That verse [Isaiah 40:31] means a lot to me because I’m now free to do whatever I want to do. I’m free to be me.

“I knew I needed to do something, but I didn’t know how. I didn’t think I was brave enough to leave. I didn’t know what to do. I just prayed to God, ‘I need help.’ He helped me.”

FAMILY AFFAIR Reeves said today her life is centered around the corps and her children and is “wonderful and fulfilling.”

“It’s not perfect, but I wouldn’t change it,” she said. “I think I’ve grown.

I see life differently. I can handle things better now.

“No matter what I do, I know God is there for me. I might not be perfect and I have a lot of growing to do, but He’s going to accept me for who I am.”

Reeves is happy that she gets to serve and attend church with her children, who often are at her side.

“We are at The Salvation Army almost every day of the week,” Reeves said.

Major Debbie Stacy, corps officer in Lima, said she has seen tremendous growth in Reeves.

“There is truth in Hebrews 10:25 where we are taught the importance of meeting together with the body of Christ. There is strength, character, and growth that takes place when God’s people unite,” Stacy said. “We’ve seen that in Gina.

“She is a joy to be around. Her smile reflects the joy Jesus has brought to her life.”

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Remonta el Vuelo una Vez Más Hace tres años, la vida de Regina Reeves se derrumbó. Reeves se sentía deprimida, estaba saliendo de un matrimonio abusivo. Se quedaba todo el día en cama llorando, pero entre lágrimas veía cuando sus hijos llegaban a casa felices cada vez que regresaban del Centro de Adoración y Servicios del Ejército de Salvación en Lima, Ohio.

En una de sus noches tarde llorando, Reeves decidió orar, y esta vez lo hizo con todo su corazón.

“Me entregué por completo a aquello por lo que estaba orando esa noche”, recuerda. “Me sobrecogió el sentimiento irresistible de que debía ir a la iglesia”.

Una vez que Reeves empezó a asistir al Cuerpo de Lima, aprovechó lo que le ofrecían los programas de discipulado del Cuerpo y creció en su fe cristiana. Ese es el objetivo de la intensificación del discipulado de “Strikepoint”.

“Mientras más asistía a la iglesia, mejor me sentía”, cuenta Reeves. “Mientras más concurría y participaba en las actividades, más era el alivio que sentía. Creo que eso era un llamado a hacer todo lo que pudiese a través de la iglesia”.

A Reeves, que se convirtió en soldado en marzo pasado, se le pidió muy pronto que ayudara con las Rayitos de Sol y al grupo de danza del Cuerpo. Hace muy poco enseñó su primera clase de jóvenes soldados.

“El hecho de saber que estoy enseñando a una persona y ayudándola a acercarse a Dios es algo que me maravilla”, dice emocionada.

Este es un resumen del artículo. Para leerlo completo en español, por favor visite saconnects.org/enespanol.

2017 MAY

11

DEEPER DISCIPLESHIP

people do need

the LORD

by Robert Mitchell

“When will we realize people need the Lord?”

—STEVE GREEN

I

t was a routine day for Helen Dunning. She was dropping off and picking up Salvation Army bell ringers in East Stroudsburg, Pa. But God was about to speak to her— through a song.

The 70–year–old Dunning, who has been a senior soldier for 56 years, rode along in a corps van last year with Major Mary Francis, who had recently bought a new CD. Steve Green’s “People Need the Lord” soon played. Francis told Dunning how the song had touched millions of people.

On this day, Dunning felt that touch.

She recalls, “I told Major Mary, ‘I need to do something.

People do need the Lord.’ I’d rather see people go to heaven than go to hell. That’s on my heart.”

Before they returned to the corps, Dunning told Francis the Lord had laid it on her heart to tell people they needed Him. But how? The two brainstormed. Francis suggested Dunning share her testimony.

The shy Dunning immediately rejected the idea, but remembered the song and lyrics.

WHAT TO DO?

Cari Friend, executive secretary at the corps, remembers how “impassioned” Dunning was that day.

“Helen said, ‘Cari, people don’t realize what would happen in their lives if they just came to the Lord. And then, if someone dies before they come to the Lord, that means they go to hell. I don’t want that! I can’t have that.’ ” They discussed what Dunning could do. Friend suggested they make a video and post it on Facebook. Again, Dunning rejected any idea designed to put her in the spotlight. But Friend encouraged her to write down some thoughts.

In time, Friend convinced her to make the video series “Come to the Lord.” They shot it simply and in the corps chapel with an iPhone. Each video is only a few minutes long, but nonetheless, they have garnered a few thousand views.

“I’m proud of her because, although she’s so shy, she still put herself out there to do this,” Friend said.

BREAKING OUT

The first video featured Dunning’s personal testimony. The second one included her thoughts on kindness and other virtues of Christianity.

“The Lord just laid stuff on my heart,” Dunning said. “I want to get it out to everybody. I really do. It makes me happy.

I want to keep doing it, if He keeps putting it in my heart.”

Friend said a few people in church on Sunday morning have recognized Dunning from the videos. Other viewers who have seen Dunning’s videos have called and asked questions.

“The feedback has been phenomenal,” Friend said. “People are really touched by her and by her story because she’s so real. You can’t help but watch. She’s heartfelt and that resonates with people.”

Dunning is a shining example of the “Deeper Discipleship” portion of “Strikepoint.” She constantly cultivates the spiritual disciplines of Bible study and prayer—and encourages others to do so.

WELCOME TO CHURCH

Dunning volunteers and does a bit of everything around the East Stroudsburg Corps, including answering phones and working in the warehouse and food bank.

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“Whatever they want me to do, I do,” she said.

During the week, she is also involved in Home League, women’s ministry, Songsters, Sunday school, and a host of Bible studies.

Dunning’s main job is serving as the welcome sergeant on Sunday mornings. She took it on when Richard, her husband of 45 years, died two years ago.

“I think since her husband died, she’s been thinking a lot about heaven,” Friend said.

Major Francis, who grew up in the corps, is now the director of pastoral care. She remembers Dunning as “very quiet.”

“Helen hardly spoke at all, but since [her husband] passed away and she felt compelled to take his position as the welcome sergeant, she’s just a totally new person,” Francis said.

“She welcomes everyone who comes into this church on Sunday, no matter who they are.”

Dunning greets people with a hug, and, if she doesn’t see everyone in a family, she’ll ask a familiar question.

“I ask ‘Where are they?’ Then, I usually send a card,” Dunning said. “The Lord is just leading me. I need to do this.

I can’t see people go to hell.”

Dunning sends cards to people who miss church and to the sick. In each card, she’ll include a scripture verse. Her favorite verse is John 3:16. She also accompanies Major Francis during sick visitations.

EARLY RISER

While music is an important part of Dunning’s quiet time with Christ, her devotional life involves three different Bible studies. She also gets up early in the morning to read her Bible.

“That’s when I feel it should be, in the morning when I first wake up,” Dunning explains. “I have that ‘Lord, come in’ feeling.”

When Dunning received several prayer requests to contemplate during her morning devotions, she decided to start a phone prayer chain at the corps.

The subjects of many of those requests for prayer are Dunning’s 19 grandchildren, who are always on her mind. She recently gave one grandson a Bible. She holds him accountable, frequently asking if he has read the assignment she gave him.

Dunning says simply, pointing to heaven, “I want to see them go up there.”

She was a housewife during her married years and is proud that most of her grandchildren (and eight great–grandchildren) attend the corps. Amazingly, she can recite all of their birthdays.

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A LONG HISTORY

Dunning was brought to the East Stroudsburg Corps as a baby.

She became a senior soldier at 14. Years later, she brought her three children and one adopted child to the corps.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Dunning, along with other women in the corps, took her tambourine and bravely ventured into East Stroudsburg’s taverns to raise money for The Salvation Army. Some of the women met and married men from the taverns and eventually brought them to church. Dunning met her husband at a roller rink. The couple married in 1972.

Now in her golden years, Dunning has observed changes in her community and corps. East Stroudsburg, only about 90 minutes from New York City on Interstate 80, is turning into a bedroom community. The corps averages about 85 attendees on Sundays. Under ministry assistant James Hughes, it also offers a contemporary service for younger people.

Majors Deborah and James Gingrich lead the corps, which provides a breakfast and lunch program (a Bible verse is written on the menu board) and a shelter for men, women, and families.

The corps gives away bread and baked goods each day and holds a monthly food distribution.

CHRISTIAN HUMILITY

Dunning, who is a food distribution volunteer, has opened a prayer table at the event to share written scripture verses.

Each week, she helps start Sunday school.

“I lead the songs and I tell them who is going to pray,” Dunning said.

Friend said Dunning prefers to work behind the scenes.

“She’s the one who quietly encourages people in the corner.

She doesn’t want any recognition.”

Major Francis is happy Dunning has found her voice and is using it to draw people to God and to Deeper Discipleship.

“I truly believe all of this was in her and waiting to come out. Now that she has found herself and knows who she is, the Lord has laid [this work] on her heart,” Francis said.

“L ove

Where You Live”

By Heidi Lynn Russell

iStock

H

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ardy and resilient, the little plant has been all over the Northeastern seaboard. It sits in a sun–soaked kitchen, breathing life into Major Jodi Lloyd’s soul.

Lloyd, who insists she has no green thumb and kills anything she touches, has cared for this plant throughout years of moving from appointment to appointment in The Salvation Army. It is the first thing she brings into every officers’ quarters.

It’s a symbol to Lloyd that new and unfamiliar surroundings are now “home.”

“I’ve tried hard to take care of this one plant,” says Lloyd, who is the associate territorial youth secretary at Eastern Territorial Headquarters. “When I look at it, I remember that home is where you’re planted. I tell myself, ‘No matter where we go, this is going to be home, and you’ll grow and learn new things. So enjoy whatever time you have here and make new memories and be grateful for the ones you’ve had in the past.’”

A Salvation Army officer’s life is dictated by frequent

2017 MAY

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“

She said in tears, ‘This is what the Bible talks about: This world is not our home. This is a journey.’ It spoke powerfully

“

to me. She got it. She got our Salvation Army ministry.

moves to new corps and other duties. Their homes are not their own, and they usually receive very short notice that it’s time to pull up stakes and move to the next location. But some officers, like Lloyd, have discovered joys and coping strategies when it comes to relocating. As they say goodbye to friends and corps soldiers, they have learned to embrace different and new homes in unique ways.

For Lloyd, the plant she carries from place to place has become a strong reminder of God’s presence in the initial difficult and lonely days after a move.

“It’s a personal thing to me, like a physical visible reminder: God has been with you. He’s grown you and has been with your kids. That’s deep for a little plant, but it’s a visual reminder. This plant has come from a place, and there are verses about our ‘roots growing down deep’ (Col. 2:7) and that we are ‘a tree of righteousness’ (Isaiah 61:3). This plant reminds me of that physical connectedness to God,” she says.

If you have been uprooted recently from your home, here are a few ways that Lloyd and other career Salvation Army officers have adapted so that they can love where they live.

The first thing Major Susan Wood does when she walks into a new quarters—hang pictures. She also sets out personal trinkets and décor on tables in the same way they were placed on tables in the home before. This consistency has reminded the Woods of their “story”—that their family is actually “the home.” Wood and her husband, Terry, are stationed at the Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Camden, N.J. “It really was the pictures that made it home, and that’s for every house we’ve been in,” Wood says. “So it wasn’t about the house. I would tell the kids, ‘The house is the house, but all of this (pictures and trinkets) is us, and it’s the story of us around the house.’ ” Wood also has some cherished mementos. A standing mirror that was a gift from her mother goes on top of her dresser in the master bedroom. A Snow White figurine, also a treasure from years ago, has a place of honor. A print of an Amish girl with the message, “Always know that you are loved,” a gift from her husband Terry, has been cherished for

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MAY 2017

iStock

YOUR FAMILY’S ‘STORY’ IN EACH HOME

years. These are more than things—they are part of a tapestry of memories, she says.

“It’s not about the things you have. I’ve always said, ‘We’re in a new house, but it’s our family unit. It’s us. We’re together.

We’re here,’ ” Wood says. “Even now, the kids come back to a house they’ve never lived in, but they have us, and we are the family unit.”

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH COMFORTS

Scents trigger memory and can make strange new places seem more welcome. So Major Cheriann Stoops, corps officer at Montclair, N.J., immediately boils water—and adds cinnamon to it—when she enters a new home. It’s a quick fix to create immediate warmth, she says. You can also keep a cookie sheet and spatula handy, along with some store–bought cookie dough in a cooler. Throw it in the oven when you first arrive to fill your home with a delicious aroma of hot cookies.

One thing that is a challenge for officers is that décor can vary from home to home, Stoops says. “Some are country.

Others are modern. There are things I own that don’t fit in all of them,” she says. In one of her quarters, there was an open space that reached to a second–story ceiling, with a huge window over the front door. It had a shelf that needed a big item to fill it.

“I bought a nice vase with dried flowers for it. You find something quickly to fit that home and mark it as ‘ours,’ ” she says, adding that her favorite décor stores are Hobby Lobby and Home Goods.

Simple items can change a room’s personality—important when you’re working with a very tight budget, Stoops says.

“Pillows and a touch of color can add some change to a room, and so can throw blankets. Try to make the space clean and airy. In a bathroom, a shower curtain can change it immediately, and towel colors can totally change a little space,” she says.

MAKE THE MOVE AN ‘ADVENTURE’

Officers’ kids have to also adapt to sudden changes and new homes. Wood, Lloyd, and Stoops made a habit of always telling their children that the move was an “adventure.”

“The way you respond is the way your kids respond,” Wood says.

One of the first things you can do to help younger children adjust sooner is to drive to their new school and discuss as a family whether they’ll be riding in your car or in the school bus or whether it’s close enough to walk, the three moms say.

Immediately get the children settled into their rooms.

Allow them to pick out their bedding, Wood says. “We would say, ‘This is your room,’ and even if bedding was there, they made it their own. So purchase the kind of bedding you want. And

even down to the paint—you might repaint the walls for them.”

Wood also has a long–standing ritual. “Within the first couple of weeks, get a library card, because libraries make it feel like you’re part of the community.”

And make plans of things you can do with the home as a family, like a vegetable garden in the back yard for the coming summer or even a treehouse, if you have a large, welcoming tree. Maybe there’s a space in a garage where dads and kids can plan on carpentry or auto projects, too.

GROUND YOURSELF IN SCRIPTURE

“Hang scripture verses in key locations around the house to remind you of God’s faithfulness,” Stoops says.

“We have a sign: ‘Be strong and courageous’ (Joshua 1:9), which we hang by the door we exit most often. It’s a great reminder that no matter where you are or what your assignment, God goes before you. That sign goes up quickly,” she says.

Other officers also have their own favorite verses on which they dwell when they feel disoriented by a move. Wood’s is, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me” (Phil.

4:13). And Lloyd’s favorite verse is Eph. 3:20: “His power at work in us can do far more than we dare ask or imagine.”

“And it has been true, that God has done more than we ever dreamed He could,” Lloyd says of her frequent moves.

“It’s how we envision our ministry. Some places, we never would have chosen, but God did things for us. We couldn’t have planned it ourselves but were so glad God did.”

NEW NEIGHBORS, LIFELONG FRIENDS

Often when officers move, they face a personal temptation to isolate themselves, because of the pain of saying goodbye to friends after a few years. But making a new place home also means being willing to forge relationships with neighbors, Lloyd says. In one instance, when her family moved from Ohio to New York, neighbors across the street had become so close that they brought their children to New York for a visit later.

That neighbor also taught Lloyd a profound lesson as they were saying goodbye.

“She said in tears, ‘This is what the Bible talks about: This world is not our home. This is a journey.’ It spoke powerfully to me. She got it. She got our Salvation Army ministry,” Lloyd says.

“I still keep that in my heart. When we said ‘goodbye,’ I could remember, it’s not just about this place. We are always looking forward to bigger and better things. I’ve often reminded my kids, ‘If we didn’t move here, you wouldn’t know your friends. Your friendship pool is bigger. You never would want to miss out on having known these people.’ It’s hard when moving, but knowing this puts things in perspective.”

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2017 MAY

17

Children’s Lives

Building

by Robert Mitchell

Jesus said, “Let the little

children come to me and do not hinder them, for the

kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”

—-—M ATTHEW 19::14

W

hile their parents train to be Salvation Army officers just a few buildings away, the children of cadets at the College for Officer Training (CFOT) in Suffern, N.Y., are strengthening their own spiritual walk.

The CFOT’s children’s ministries program involves 82 children from grades kindergarten to 12. As part of her emphasis on community, Colonel Janet Munn, CFOT principal, has asked that the children’s spiritual formation be a priority.

Said Major Inger Furman, campus ministries director, “Our campus ministries focus offers a holistic approach. We provide for the children’s physical, emotional, social, and spiritual care and development.

“Most of the spiritual development focus is on school–aged children, although we do some activity with the younger ones.”

Clockwise from center: CFOT children’s ministries team (l–r) Nicole Love, Cindy Pettiford, Michelle Fairman, and Kristie Stoker; Armando Diaz mentors Manceley Pierre–Louis in the teen mentoring program; teens chat during the mentoring program; Paige Childs (with Hannah Payton on her lap) sit with their mentor Alondra Berberena.

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MAY 2017

DEEPER DISCIPLESHIP

FORGING BONDS

Kristie Stoker, CFOT youth ministries coordinator for the past 12 years, said it “starts with the day to day.” Children younger than school age stay at CFOT, while grades K–12 attend local schools and then return at the end of the day for after–school activities.

“We’re not just an after–school program where the kids come and hang out,” Stoker said. “We are fully invested in building relationships every single day.”

One way CFOT does that is by offering small groups for the students, who are now studying the fruit of the Spirit.

The middle and high school students meet weekly in small groups and the primary grades get together twice a month.

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2017 MAY

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At Officer Kid University (OKU), which launched in January, students talk about the challenges of being children of officers. They don’t have to go far for guidance since many on the CFOT children’s ministries staff are the children of officers.

“We understand the ins and outs and the dynamics of that,” Stoker said. “We talk about some of the unrealistic and realistic expectations that are put on officers’ kids.

GROWING TOGETHER

“We have already formed relationships with [the students].

There is an element of trust where they can express themselves, be honest about how they’re feeling, and share any anxieties or worries or excitements.”

Michelle Fairman, who works with the children who have special needs, said involving the cadet parents has helped with spiritual development. The idea is for the students to grow along with their parents.

“It’s been very deliberate that the parents are aware of what the kids are learning and discussing in the small groups and at OKU,” Fairman said. “I think that’s helped foster some discussion at home for some of them.”

Nicole Love, youth ministries specialist at CFOT, said officer training is a unique time in a family’s life because the parents and children are preparing to enter ministry life together.

“We really value and respect that,” she said. “We’re trying to be creative in how we minister to them. They’re here with us for two years and it’s an honor to minister to and to invest in them.”

HERE AND NOW

Cindy Pettiford, the assistant youth ministries coordinator at CFOT, said the staff plans spiritual formation days and “Covenant” Sundays for the children, similar to the ones experienced by their parents. There is also a prayer room for grades K–5.

“All of us feel that, in addition to building kids for the future, we’re preparing them to impact the Kingdom of God now,” said Pettiford.

“There’s this idea in youth ministry that we’re kind of warehousing them until they become adults. But Jesus said, ‘Let the children come to Me.’ I love how they can actually impact the Kingdom now—at 5, 12, 15, and 18. They’re not ‘Holy Spirit Juniors.’”

Fairman said she enjoys watching the older teen students spiritually mentor the younger ones. Both age groups look forward to that time together.

“They’re always asking, ‘When are we doing the mentor groups?’” she said. “They have developed relationships with each other, thanks to these groups. It’s been powerful to see how both older and younger kids embrace this.”

20

MAY 2017

Bervelly Sainteme (left) mentors Selah Swires as part of the teen mentoring program.

MAKING FRIENDS

Stoker said the mentoring program began last year “to further the idea of community and to allow our kids to pour into each other.” Her 4th–grade son meets with a high schooler.

“They don’t always want to talk to us, but they talk to each other,” she said. “What we needed is for all of the kids to buy in. They did and they love it.

“It just reiterates what the campus vision is—that we live together in community, and we build up one another. We’re in this together.”

Stoker said CFOT has always spiritually developed students in middle and in high school, but Munn has stressed the idea of community, which has called for an expansion.

“It’s been the Lord leading us to want to have an experience for all of our children, not just the teens,” Stoker said.

SOLID GROUND

Furman said the staff’s goal is to help the students build a foundation rooted in Christ. Long after they leave CFOT, they will be equipped with the tools, spiritual formation, and discipleship to be “secure in their identity in Christ.”

“We’re not babysitters,” she says. “Our staff is invested in children, building relationships, and pouring into their lives.

We want to be used by God to help kids cultivate their Godcreated identity.”

Furman said the words of Matthew 19:14 are central to the mission of CFOT youth ministries.

“I take that scripture seriously because it reminds us that God works in each one of us. What a wonderful opportunity we have to help these students understand how their relationship with the Lord can take root—even now.”

FAITH in ACTION

Your devotional life DEEPER DISCIPLESHIP

iStock (2)

What works for you?

Take a deep breath and imagine: You’re feeling excited, comfortable, and pro-

foundly connected—to the spirit of God. You’re in His presence. The scripture in front of you is crystal clear. Then, a revelation comes to mind and thrills your heart with hope for a brighter tomorrow.

When such beautiful and cherished moments in the life of a Christian occur, they are memorable—even euphoric.

Cultivating the devotional disciplines and lifestyle that ultimately lead to such desired epiphanies is what the “Deeper Discipleship” aspect of “Strikepoint” is all about.

To learn how people across the territory successfully initiate and conduct their private moments with God, SAconnects asked them to describe their devotional life in response to the following questions: • Briefly describe your devotional life and how you daily cultivate spiritual disciplines.

• What Christian book(s) are you currently reading?

• What Christian authors have influenced you most?

• Where do you physically conduct your daily devotions?

• What advice do you have for people who are struggling in these busy times to develop a healthy devotional life?

As many as 50 people responded. Some answers will appear in this article.

You’ll find more by visiting us online at SAconnects.org.

Common threads are revealed, such as meeting God early in the morning, sitting in a favorite easy chair, sipping coffee or tea in a familiar “space” or “War Room.” Other responses include “doodling, drawing, and coloring” scripture verses; writing entire passages of scripture; reading the same scripture from various translations; enlisting the support of an accountability partner; listening to the Word on audio recordings; using Bible apps on smartphones; and praying for family members while working out in the gym (giving each machine the name of a child or grandchild).

All examples evidence each responder’s exceptionally personal and intimate relationship with God. As one person put it, “He designed us all differently. There is no ‘cookie cutter’ way to have devotions.” As you ponder these practices, let God touch your heart in a new and exciting way.

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2017 MAY

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FAITH in ACTION

What our leaders do …

Commissioner William A. Bamford Territorial Commander I like my day to begin in quiet time with the Lord. Often, I will use music to prepare my soul. This time helps me to reflect, which has developed my periods of solitude with Him. Because I travel frequently, where I physically conduct my daily devotions varies. I prefer being in the recliner at my home office. Many times at Territorial Headquarters before people arrive, I’ll close my office door and look out the window at God’s wonderful creation.

To people who are struggling to develop a healthy devotional life, I say to them, carve some time out of the day—no matter what!

Colonel Paula Johnson Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries I use the S.O.A.P. method for my Bible reading; writing our Scripture, Observation, Application, and a Prayer focused on the verse for the day.

Right now, I physically conduct my daily devotions in my den. However, if it’s nice outside, I like to take time on my back patio.

If you are struggling to develop a healthy devotional life, don’t beat yourself up. God wants a seeking heart—not a legalistic one! Take a moment to select a verse and write it out on a notecard. Spend a minute and ask God to apply that verse to your life in a real way. When needed, pull out that card and go over it. This advice is especially helpful for moms who have little children and who need to stay connected.

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MAY 2017

Commissioner G. Lorraine Bamford Territorial President of Women’s Ministries I prefer to occasionally change my personal devotional style for periods of time. At present, I am “scribing” daily (writing and copying Scripture). I use a lectio divina process with each portion of scripture I write. (Latin for “Divine Reading”—scriptural reading of God’s “Living Word,” meditation, and prayer).

I conduct my devotions at the kitchen table or in a chair in our bedroom.

My advice for people who are struggling is, if your time with the Lord is becoming routine, change it up! Develop small disciplines at certain times during the day.

“

To people who are struggling to develop a healthy devotional life, I say to them, carve some time out of the day—no

”

matter what!

— COMMISSIONER WILLIAM A. BAMFORD, TERRITORIAL COMMANDER

DEEPER DISCIPLESHIP

Colonel Kenneth Johnson Chief Secretary My devotional life could be described as “Practicing the Presence.” Each day, I strive to maintain an awareness of God’s presence. In my Bible reading and during my prayer walk and ministry duties, I stay centered in the knowledge that God is working in and through me.

Whether I’m engaged in boisterous activity or in the discipline of silence, whether I’m feasting or fasting, God helps me make every moment count for Him. The writings of Dr. James MacDonald speak volumes to me. This is especially true in When Life is Hard. I have also enjoyed Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend. Max Lucado has been my “go to” author for devotional material.

Being a morning person, I conduct my quiet time with God over a cup of coffee. I have always gravitated to my easy chair and, preferably, face it outside. Looking out at nature helps me center my thoughts on the majesty and magnitude of our Creator.

In a world of competing demands, one has to simply prioritize the eternal matters vs. the temporal ones. Turn off the “blue screen” technological distractions and center on the Creator of the majestic blue sky above you! Feel no regret or guilt about telling the world, “I am not available right now.” God will honor the “Centered Servant” who gives Him first place.

“

As you ponder these practices, let God touch your heart in a new and exciting way.

”

Lt. Colonel Patricia LaBossiere Territorial Secretary for Spiritual Life Development I begin each day with prayer and scripture readings based on Common Prayer: A Liturgy for Ordinary Radicals by Shane Clairborne. I review whatever scripture portion I am currently committing to memory.

Throughout the day, I strive to maintain an awareness of God’s presence and remain open to the prompting of the Holy Spirit to pray for specific individuals or situations as they come to mind. On some evenings, I spend time meditating and journaling; I find it helpful to write out my prayers. On other evenings, I use the “Prayer of Examen” (a technique of prayerful reflection on the events of the day). At bedtime, I read the evening scripture portions from Common Prayer, review my memory portion again, and pray for people on my prayer list.

I physically conduct my daily devotions while seated in a chair in my living room. I have a basket that contains my Bible, several books, my prayer journal, and some pens.

What your devotional life looks like will change, based on your family, work, and circumstances. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Find what works for you right now and do that. If you miss a day (or a week) don’t beat yourself up. Don’t give up. Start again and keep on trying. God will meet you where you are and lead you to where He wants you to be.

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Lt. Colonel James LaBossiere Territorial Program Secretary My devotional life includes early morning Bible reading and prayer. I enjoy the quiet time with the Lord before the busyness of the day begins. I also try to include devotional readings as well as seasonal studies (Lent, Advent, and others). For this purpose, I often use a Bible reading app with daily readings.

I conduct my devotions in my living room in a comfortable chair with my first cup of coffee of the day.

My main advice for people who are struggling to develop a healthy devotional life in these busy times would be to find the devotional style and materials that work for you.

Experiment with various materials and time of day. After you feel comfortable, the key issue is consistency and a well–balanced diet of spiritual food to feed your soul.

Envoy Anita Hinson Ministry Development Coordinator, Greater Philadelphia.

My daily devotional life starts in the morning and includes intentional and sacred “private time” with the Lord. My time consists of music, prayer, Bible study, and meditating on Scripture.

I’ve been moved by many authors, some of whom are Matthew Henry, Ken Gire, Jeremiah Burroughs, Oswald Chambers, John Foxe, John Flavel, and Thomas Moore.

Salvation Army authors have also been an excellent source of inspiration, such as Roger Green, General Arnold Brown, General John Larsson, Colonel Henry Gariepy, Commissioner William Francis, Major JoAnn Shade, Major Amy Reardon, and Bob Hostetler.

I have an in–home office that is my “sanctuary space” for Bible study and devotions.

To the best of your ability, set aside a specific time and location for your devotions to be uninterrupted and focused on Jesus and in the Holy Spirit. Link arms with an accountability partner with whom you can briefly share highlights from your devotions.

To read more testimonies from around the territory, go to saconnects.org.

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MAY 2017

books people are

READING Commissioner William A. Bamford The Relentless Tenderness of Jesus,

by Brennan Manning Surprised by Joy, by C.S Lewis Christian authors who have influenced me the most are Max Lucado, Henri Nouwen, and Samuel Logan Brengle.

Commissioner G. Lorraine Bamford Sacred Chaos, by Tricia Rohodes I am also reading books by Henri Nouwen, Liz Curtis Hicks, and Max Lucado.

Colonel Kenneth Johnson Stay the Course, by Captain Andy Miller I’m also enjoying Miracles We Have Seen by Harley A. Rotbard, M.D., and I’m getting ready to re-read C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity.

Colonel Paula Johnson God in My Everything, by Ken Shigematsu The writings of Ken Gire speak to my soul.

Lt. Colonel James LaBossiere War on Two Fronts: The Redemptive Theology of William Booth, by Roger Green The Christian authors who have influenced me the most are C.S. Lewis, Max Lucado, Dietrick Bonhoeffer, Timothy Keller, and Henri Nouwen.

Lt. Colonel Patricia LaBossiere Sunday, Sabbath and the Weekend, edited by Edward O’Flaherty and Rodney L. Peterson with Timothy A. Norton Rhythms of Rest: Finding the Spirit of Sabbath in a Busy World, by Shelly Miller C.S. Lewis and Richard Foster are Christian authors who have influenced me the most.

Envoy Anita Hinson The Hidden Smile of God by John Piper You Give Me New Life by David Hazzard Intense Moments with the Savior series by Ken Gire You Set My Spirit Free, works of John of the Cross

FAITH in ACTION

International flavor at OOB

by Robert Mitchell

The Old Orchard Beach Camp Meetings always draw vacationing French Canadians, but this year’s event from July 29–Aug. 4 will have a distinctly Canadian and international flavor.

Commissioner Susan McMillian, territorial commander and president of women’s ministries in the Canada & Bermuda Territory, will open the camp meetings in the Pavilion at 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 29.

Joining her will be the Eastern Territorial Songsters, Canadian Staff Band, the Territorial Arts Ministry (TAM) team, a mass ARC Chorus, and Unbound.

McMillian will speak again on Sunday, July 30, at 10 a.m., during the holiness meeting.

Lt. Colonel Allan Hofer, territorial secretary for Spiritual Life Development in the USA Southern Territory, will be the speaker at 7 p.m. in the Pavilion on Sunday.

The rest of the week’s schedule includes these events:

From top: Commissioner Susan McMillian; the Canadian Staff Band; Captains Keith and Pamela Maynor; Lt. Colonels Allan and Fiona Hofer

Monday, July 31: Canadian Staff Band, under the direction of Bandmaster John Lam, in concert, 7 p.m., in the Pavilion.

Tuesday, Aug. 1: Family Fun Night, 7 p.m., in the Pavilion featuring Summer Brass and the Hands On teams. There will be a host of activities from 5:30 to 6:50 p.m. on the Pavilion grounds such as pony rides, face–painting, bouncy houses, and more.

Wednesday, Aug. 2: The Creative Arts Services Team (CAST) will present “A Wrinkle in Time,” 7 p.m., in the Pavilion. The 50–minute, one–act play is based on the Madeleine L’Engle classic children’s book. This year’s CAST team features Bethany Kelly, Skyela Bussey, Laura Hevenor, Oracia Morris, Hannah Furman, Megan Pentland, Alexis Duperree, Marissa Riley, Ryan Livingston, Robert Stewart, and Scott Martel.

Thursday, Aug. 3: Pier Ministry, 7 p.m. at the Old Orchard Beach Pier. The evening will conclude with fireworks.

Friday, Aug. 4: Christian singer Mark Schultz in concert, 7 p.m., in the Pavilion.

A team of evangelists, dancers, singers, and actors will perform at the Pier each night of the camp meetings from 7–10 p.m. under the direction of Envoys Sharon and Steve Bussey.

The camp meetings will also feature two Bible studies.

Captains Keith and Pamela Maynor will lead a Bible study at 9 a.m. Monday through Friday on the beach off Union Avenue.

Lt. Colonels Allan and Fiona Hofer (assistant secretary for Spiritual Life Development in the USA Southern Territory) will open God’s Word at 10:30 a.m.

Monday through Friday in the OOB Corps Chapel.

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2017 MAY

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FAITH in ACTION

Guided by GOD

by Hugo Bravo

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phrases and responses in English (which she cannot speak). She keeps them in her mind to get her through the day on her job as a janitor at Harvard University and Harvard Medical School. She has worked there for the past 27 years.

Fauta Estebes welcomed the challenge of finally learning how to read.

Her faith in God had guided her through a life filled with difficult times.

people whole,” she remembers. “Two friends perished. One of them was pregnant.”

“Every time I faced a storm, I would stay close to the floor and pray.

Through the rain, I could hear God saying, ‘I will protect you.’ Hearing His voice in the hardest of storms made me feel as if I was floating.”

THROUGH THE STORMS

Estebes made it to Puerto Rico, where it became easier to come to the United States to be with her family.

However, when she arrived in Newton, Massachusetts, new challenges arose.

“Getting my residency was difficult.

I missed many days that I had to show up in court because I did not know how to read,” she says.

But Estebes had kept a clean record while maintaining two full–time jobs and taking care of her children alone.

When she finally got her residency, she knew it was only by the grace of God. She was finally making a life for herself in the United States.

Though the sea no longer posed a danger to her, she continued to ask God for guidance. Fauta remembers how after a stressful day at work, she noticed that her residency card, which she always carried with her, was missing.

“Any immigrant knows that when you lose your residency card, you begin to feel like you are living on borrowed time,” says Estebes. “I prayed as hard

In 1986, Estebes emigrated from the Dominican Republic to Puerto Rico on a makeshift speedboat, known as a yola. Her ultimate goal was to join her husband and three children who were already living in the United States.

Eighty–five people boarded the yola.

The 60–80 mile trip from one end of the Dominican Republic to the western shore of Puerto Rico can be dangerous.

Migrant trips from one Caribbean island to another in search of a better life are notorious for their cramped, unsanitary conditions, inexperienced navigators, and the constant threat of violence to its passengers, particularly the women.

Estebes remembers being doused with gasoline by a group of men on the boat, who then set one of her arms on fire.

During the voyage, many of the passengers fell ill to disease, dehydration, and even starvation. Sailing through storms, says Estebes, was where many of the passengers’ lives ended.

“Like an animal, the ocean swallowed

A NEW COUNTRY

Photos by Drew Forster

W

hen Fauta Estebes began coming to the Boston Central Hispanic Corps for the Thursday night women’s ministries, she requested to speak with Major Mayra Vasquez, the corps officer.

Estebes had always loved God, but she wanted to know how she could fully accept Jesus Christ as her Savior. As they talked about their own walks with the Lord, Major Vasquez learned something from Estebes that few people knew.

Says Vasquez, “Fauta confessed to me that she didn’t know how to read in either English or Spanish, but wanted to learn. I agreed to help her learn. We began using tutoring guides for children and reciting the Bible together. That was when I noticed how she had gotten through life for so long without knowing how to read.”

Estebes has an excellent memory.

She can recite hymns she had heard just once and years ago. She remembers

DEEPER DISCIPLESHIP

Despite hardships, Fauta Estebes (right) considers herself rich with God’s blessings.

Major Mayra Vasquez (below, left) has been helping Fauta learn to read at the Boston Central Hispanic Corps.

as I had ever prayed. After two days, I had a dream where I saw myself moving my bed. It was God telling me where to look.”

When she woke up, she reenacted the movements of her dream and found her card, which had slipped from her purse and fallen behind the bedpost.

God was looking out for her, just as He had on the yola.

HE CHOSE THIS CHURCH

The Salvation Army Boston Central Hispanic Corps could always be seen from the window of the bus that Estebes took to her cleaning job at Harvard.

In the summer of 2016, her bus route began making more stops by the corps, making it easier for her to catch a glance at it. She had visited many churches while in the U.S., but God was once again guiding her, and increasing her curiosity to walk in.

“I cried a lot during my first few days of attending The Salvation Army church,” she says. “I felt shame when I told the Major I couldn’t read. But God spoke to me, as always. He said, ‘Trust her.’

Eventually my tears of shame became happy tears. I felt thankful that He had chosen this church for me, where I could hear His Word and learn to read it.

“This church has been a blessing for me. Besides my grown children, I don’t have much extended family near me, but God greets me every time I come to the corps. After all, who is a better family member than my God?”

FINDING PEACE

“What a soul this woman has,” Vasquez says of Fauta. “Her humility keeps her from seeing the power of her testimony.

To leave your country in the manner that she did and to see people she knew die at sea; I don’t think I could be as brave

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as she was.”

Estebes says her testimony has less to do with bravery and more with a complete trust in God. It brought her from the Dominican Republic to Puerto Rico to the United States and finally to The Salvation Army.

“When I was on that yola, hearing people cry out in fear, watching the sea eat people alive, my faith in Him was the only thing that kept my mind calm,” says Estebes. “It took years for me to find the peace that I had lost, but at the corps, I feel I have finally found God’s peace.”

“Fauta being at The Salvation Army is proof God works miracles today,” says Vasquez. “We all face storms in our lives, but she has literally survived the deadliest of storms; she has lived through situations that seemed impossible to you and me. But there is nothing impossible for God. With Him, we can survive the worst storms.”

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iStock

since I used that word. I had heard one of my pastors say it during a sermon, and it stuck with me.

After I made my confession to the Cultivate group, the majority responded differently than I had expected. A few people were taken aback, but most people understood where I was coming from. They knew it was a term of love and respect, and it came from a personal place in me.

Be intentional; cultivate interview by Hugo Bravo

Dan Jillett, corps sergeant major (CSM) of the Brockton, Mass., Corps and Intake Counselor at The Salvation Army Brockton Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC), participated in the first Cultivate Young Adult online spiritual formation course. Dan spoke with SAconnects on lessons from the Cultivate program, such as how to pray intentionally and why we must break out of our comfort zones, as Jesus did.

Continue the work The Cultivate program began as something you would expect to find in an online college or university course, but over time, it became smaller and more personal. We read a book called The Holy Longing: The Search for Christian Spirituality by Ronald Rolheiser. It was a unique perspective for all of us as Salvationists because the author is a Catholic monk. It was outside of our tradition, but I’m happy to listen to anyone who has something to say about God. The theme of his book applies to all Salvationists; we need to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ in His world.

Jesus died and rose for us; His job is done. It’s now up to each of us to continue His work.

Prayers have power Cultivate helped me be more intentional in the way I pray. What it means to be intentional in our prayers is to know that when we pray, we fully

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realize the power that is in those prayers. I have seen prayer work, and seen that God has moved others in the form of doctors healing patients, and in people seeking recovery. Be intentional about those prayers, not just for yourself, but also for other people. Don’t be afraid to ask God to help people who need Him in life more than you do right now. This makes God happy.

Make your connection personal I became close to the participants in Cultivate. The session lasted about nine months. During that time for each of us, life was going on. Many of us went through things that we discussed. I found myself being open with the group. Among other topics, we discussed how we each refer to God when we talk to Him. I told them what I called God, even though it was outside the norm. “Well, sometimes, when I talk to Him, I call God ‘dude’,” I said.

It was something personal to me; years had passed

Get out of your comfort zone I have always loved to write, but I felt it difficult to share my weekly Cultivate writing assignments. After I finally shared, I received some constructive criticism. I then realized that a big part of being a good disciple of Christ is getting out of one’s comfort zone.

Jesus sat with tax collectors and people whom He disagreed with, as well as with the sick and the poor. His commitment to inclusiveness caused politicians and the establishment to fear Him. It was abnormal for someone to leave his or her comfort zone, as Jesus did, to pray for and to love anyone and everyone. Get out of your comfort zone and break through the fear of the unknown, just like Jesus did.

Embrace the new, honor the old At the end of the program, we gathered for a retreat in Pennsylvania. There we worshipped together, fasted, and visited the West Pittston Corps. Every year, the corps sponsors a canteen at the St. Patrick’s Day parade. We went with them to minister, hand out hot chocolate and cookies, share fellowship, and answer any questions people had regarding The Salvation Army.

While doing this, I noticed how the Cultivate program had taken us from being online to being on the frontline, back to the Salvation Army’s roots—as an effective street ministry. This is a healthy dynamic; God wants us to adapt to His changing world. But sometimes the rush to spread the message in modern ways can dilute the message itself. We need to always honor what has worked before.

— Cultivate is a ministry of The Salvation Army Eastern Territory’s Spiritual Life Development Department. For further information, call (845) 620–7676 or go to saconnects.org/cultivate

testimony

Visuals of the

BIBLE

by Grace Paré

As young people look for guidance from God, they may sometimes hesitate to open their Bibles to directly seek His wisdom. They might feel it’s too difficult to understand what they’re going to read, or it won’t relate to their problems.

Some of them hear preaching from many voices, and may not want another judgmental one telling them what they are doing wrong. Youth want to make time for God, but may feel overwhelmed by trying to also make time to open their textbooks to study for a final exam.

It can be easy for young people, and even many adults, to have these apprehensions. But I have found direct, personal guidance through the visuals of the Bible.

I was in a relationship with someone who said he believed in God, but also felt believing was enough. He did not search for a closer connection as I did, and I felt he was drawing me away from my own connection with the Christ.

In one of Paul’s letters to the Corinthians, he asks, “Do you not know that in a race, all runners run, but only one gets the prize?” Then he says, “Run in such a way as to get the prize” (1 Cor. 9:24). In my mind, I saw myself running a race, and the prize was a better connection with God. If I truly wanted that prize, should I let anything or anyone hold me back?

Although I had to end the relationship, I would never say what I did is what everyone should do if they are in a similar situation. After all, everyone runs his or her own race. But it was what worked for me, and I found guidance in Paul’s letter.

BE LIKE CHILDREN Children thrive on visuals they imagine from the first Bible stories they learn. Take for example Noah gathering two of every animal in his Ark, Moses parting the Red Sea, or Daniel praying in the lions’ den.

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ON file

Children also learn from visuals they create in the classroom. I saw this firsthand at a Vacation Bible School where I worked during a spring break. In one activity, the children put red paint on a cross. This art project showed them how Jesus had taken away their sin.

They were really touched by knowing Jesus had done that for each of them.

It made me see how, through visuals, they can become sensitive to His word and to His love.

Unfortunately, when some children become adults, they also grow doubtful about God. They become hesitant to accept the Bible as His word. As a Christian, it can be difficult to express one’s connection to God with someone who has evolved such a cynical view of Him. That is why Jesus said to His followers in Matthew 18:3, “… unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”

RUNNERS AND STREAMS Just as the children in Vacation Bible School found joy in such a visual aspect of God’s love, I am drawn to the verses in the Bible that give me a picture with which to work.

My favorite verse is “There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the Holy place where the Most High dwells” (Psalms 46:4).

What a simple but clear image! I want to be one of those streams, just as I imagined being a runner, racing towards the prize. Those verses stay with me the longest.

We must read and educate ourselves in the theological aspects of the Bible as they strengthen our faith, but all of us should also seek and embrace the imagery of the Bible. In it, we can see how to guide our lives.

— Grace Paré is a soldier at the Bay Ridge (Brooklyn) Corps

2017 MAY

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ON file

TO SEE

GOD

Contemplation and meditation in active, others–focused ministry As a colonel in The Salvation Army, Samuel Logan Brengle wrote an essay entitled “The Mystic, Wondrous Universe in my Backyard (for tired and retired officers).” He opens with words from poet Robert Browning’s “Saul.”

“I but open my eyes—and perfection, no more and no less, In the kind I imagined full fronts me, and God is seen; God In the star, in the stone, in the flesh, in the soul, and the clod.”

Brengle writes on, “I am discovering a universe in my backyard. I am not sure that I have lived so intimately with my darling little wife as I have for forty years lived with St. Paul. Far more constantly and intimately than he lived and travelled

with his friend Barnabas, and his young lieutenants, Silas, Titus, Epaphroditus, and Timothy, has he lived, travelled, slept, and talked with me, only I did the sleeping. I never found him napping.

At any hour of the day or night he was waiting wide–awake and ready for me.”

The Gospel, and the ministry that comes with it, doesn’t sleep. In the words of a recent red kettle campaign, “Need Knows No Season,” there’s always more to do. There’s always another sermon to write, another list to make, another project to plan, another budget to complete, another report to compile, and another looming deadline.

For people in ministry, the temptation to “work ‘til you drop” is real.

All too often that temptation comes with expectations, either from within or from the administrative layers and leaders above. In his essay, Brengle writes about a “whirlwind schedule” including long hours of travel in Chicago, New York, and a trip to

by Chris Stoker

Texas. By the time he reached there, he had suffered an utter physical and emotional breakdown that left him bedridden for three weeks. Upon returning to New York, a doctor ordered six months of rest, which led to Brengle writing the article.

YOUR BACKYARD Brengle vulnerably admits in his article that, throughout his life, he may have lived more intimately with his study of the Bible than with his wife. As he discovered, we must break the work cycle before it breaks us. Don’t wait 10 or 20 or 30 years to discover the universe right in your backyard. Let us pray that we would know Scripture intimately, but not at the sacrifice of ourselves and our relationships. Does one truly know the Gospel if that knowledge comes at such a great cost?

This month, take time to slow down and see God. As one rabbi put it, “Take Sabbath or Sabbath will take you.”

“I have labored for souls, sung and prayed and preached in crowded, steaming, ill–ventilated halls, pleading with souls and dealing with penitents in an atmosphere so depleted of oxygen and poisoned that every pore of my body, every lung cell and red blood corpuscle cried out for fresh air, and now I have turned to my backyard to get what I need. It has been waiting for me for ten years.”

—SAMUEL LOGAN BRENGLE, "The Universe in My Backyard The Staff Review" Volume V Number 2 (1925): 142

wholly living

by Major Lauren Hodgson

T

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here was a time in my life when my spiritual journey was stuck. My prayers seemed to be hitting the ceiling. Nonetheless, I dutifully went through the spiritual rhythms expected of me, such as having my quiet time with God, participating in worship, and serving others. I was doing all the right “stuff,” but for all the wrong reasons. My spiritual life had become duty. The momentary satisfaction of “checking all the boxes” as it related to my spiritual life ceased to satisfy me.

My quest for deeper intimacy with Christ led me to study a group of spiritual fanatics known as the Desert Mothers and Fathers. These people were early Christians, mainly monks and nuns, living in solitude in the deserts of Egypt, Palestine, and Syria around the 3rd century A.D. During that time, there was disillusionment among these believers as it related to the influence of the government on the Church. In response, this radical band of believers withdrew from society, lived in solitude, and practiced extreme charity and forgiveness. Their austere lifestyle greatly influenced the spiritual practices of John Wesley, the birth of Methodism, and the Quakers. There were shades of this “sold–out Christianity” seen in the early days of The Salvation Army.

Meditation was very much a spiritual rhythm of these early–day Christian mystics.** Unfortunately today, meditation has morphed into the idea of sitting cross–legged on the floor and humming a mantra under your breath, an image and practice made popular by many eastern religions. This is not what David had in mind when he wrote, “Blessed is the one … whose delight is in the Lord, and who meditates on His law day and night” (Psalm 1:2).

The word “meditate” has its roots in the word “chew.” Have you ever noticed that a cow always seems to be chewing

something? The reason is because cows must chew their food twice in order to digest it properly. Cows spend nearly eight hours a day chewing their cud. This, plus normal chewing of food, can result in 40,000 jaw movements per day. If we really want to “chew” on the Word, we must repeat or rethink what we are digesting when we open the Word of God. Meditation is not frivolous. We need to keep our performance mode in balance with times of meditation, otherwise we run the risk of our service to others coming from an empty, dry place. Is being still and meditating a challenge for you? Having trouble figuring out where to begin? Try some visualization to settle your mind. Visualization, simply put, is using your sanctified imagination. We delight in watching our children use their imagination during times of play as they pretend to be super heroes or princesses. There comes a time in life when we are scolded for “daydreaming” and taught to constantly stay in the moment. Jesus encouraged using our imagination when He shared parables as a means of spiritual revelation. Christ used sheep and shepherds or farmers and seeds to convey spiritual truths.

Are you ready to use your sanctified imagination to go deeper with God? Put aside your concerns about being branded a daydreamer or millennial mystic. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit simple pictures or everyday stories can be used to mature our faith, encourage our souls, and bring spiritual understanding.

The next few articles in this series will give visual scenarios that you may want to meditate upon to strengthen your soul and allow the Lord to speak to you. We are cautioned, “Don’t let your mind run away with you,” and that is good advice, but the spiritual advantages of letting your mind run away with Jesus are priceless!

* This is part one of a four–part series. For the rest of Major Hodgson’s “Meditation” series, please visit www.SAConnects.org and click on the Spiritual Life Development tab. ** A mystic is a person who seeks by contemplation and self–surrender to obtain unity with or absorption into the Deity or the absolute, or who believes in the spiritual apprehension of truths that are beyond the intellect.

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2017 MAY

31

Youth focus

BAM!

ZAP! CALLING all HEROES! K APOW!

by Major Kim D’Amaro

Hero Academy is coming soon to a division or corps near you! The Eastern Territorial Youth Department is pleased to share a new and exciting resource created with you, your corps, and your community in mind.

As we were planning for the Old Orchard Beach (OOB) Camp Meetings during the winter of 2016, we decided that it would be fun to do something different and original. We wanted to provide a resource that every corps could use.

We decided to ask Kevin and Sheryl Slous of the Canadian Territory Youth Department if they would be interested in joining us in this adventure. They

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were excited to partner with us. We dreamed up “Hero Academy” together.

We piloted the curriculum at OOB 2016. The Heroes had an amazing time.

We based our ideas on Zechariah 4:6, “It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.” We wanted the kids to be excited about following Jesus and being part of such an unbelievable journey.

The curriculum is divided into four days featuring Bible story lessons, game ideas, craft ideas, snack ideas, music, and more. We have also included ideas for a Vacation Bible School (VBS) graduation or celebration day and a Sunday morning worship

which could include a VBS graduation.

The curriculum and graphics are available on boothyouth.com.

Grab your cape, mask, and Bible and head to the Hero Academy where God is ready to take you on an amazing and exciting adventure! BOOM!

W O R L D

S E R V I C E S

2 017

Live as citizens who reflect the Good News about Christ.

Then, whether I come to see you or whether I stay away, I’ll hear all about you. I’ll hear that you are firmly united in spirit, united in fighting for the faith that the Good News brings.

PHILIPPIANS 1:27 (NOG)