SAconnects, Volume 3, Number 6 by The Salvation Army: SAconnects

VOL. 3, NO. 6 JULY/AUGUST 2017

MESSENGERS OF

OMPASSION

SEPTEMBER 8 • 7:25 P.M. Centennial Memorial Temple, NYC WITH SPECIAL GUESTS

M E O L C

T O

2017–2019

For more information, go to SAconnects.org

USA EASTERN TERRITORY Commissioners William A. and G. Lorraine Bamford Territorial Leaders

Commissioners Israel L. and Eva D. Gaither

our leaders

IN focus

GO!¡VE!

Most of us are familiar with what the Church refers to as “The Great Commission.” Following His death and resurrection, Jesus appeared to the remaining 11 disciples and commissioned them to “go into all the world and make disciples of all nations.” He also promised, “… surely I am with you always,” (Matthew 28:19–20). In the book of Mark, Jesus tells His disciples about the signs and wonders that people will accomplish in His name—if they believe. The disciples did just as Jesus had commanded them. They went and preached everywhere. Were they scared? Maybe. Were they alone? Absolutely not! Not only did He promise to never leave them, “… the Lord worked with them …,” (Mark 16: 20). As God calls us to work for Him, He promises to go with us and to work with us! God had told Moses to leave home for a land flowing with milk and honey. But that land was also inhabited by some scary people. Moses pleaded with God, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here” (Exodus 33:15). Ever feel God has asked you to get out of your comfort zone and do something for Him that scares you? Happens all the time. Remember Jonah or Peter? The Bible is full of stories about people who were called by God to walk across a room or walk on water or walk with Him to some foreign place. Today, He’s asking us to walk out of our corps buildings and to spread the Word. The General has declared this to be a year for mobilization! Go into all the world with the message of hope and healing in Jesus’ Name. We have the promise that He goes with us and works with us!

— Lt. Colonel / Tte. Coronela Renée Lance Territorial Officer Health and Wellness Director Oficiala y Directora Territorial de Salud y Bienestar

La mayoría de nosotros estamos familiarizados con lo que la iglesia llama la “Gran Comisión”. Tras su muerte y resurrección, Jesús se apareció a los 11 apóstoles restantes y los comisionó diciéndoles: “Vayan y hagan discípulos de todas las naciones”. Les prometió además: “… les aseguro que estaré con ustedes siempre” (Mateo 28:19-20). En el libro de Marcos, Jesús habla a sus discípulos de las señales y maravillas que las personas realizarán en Su nombre, si creen. Los discípulos hicieron exactamente lo que Jesús les mandó. Salieron y predicaron por todas partes. ¿Habrán sentido temor de hacerlo? Es posible. ¿Estaban solos? ¡De ninguna manera! Él no sólo les prometió que jamás los iba a dejar: “… el Señor los ayudaba en la obra …” (Marcos 16:20). Al llamarnos el Señor a trabajar para Él, ¡promete ir con nosotros y trabajar con nosotros! Dios le había dicho a Moisés que dejara su hogar por una tierra en la que fluían la leche y la miel. Pero esa tierra también estaba habitada por gentes que eran de temer. Moisés le imploró a Dios: “O vas con todos nosotros … o mejor no nos hagas salir de aquí” (Éxodo 33:15). ¿Has sentido alguna vez que Dios te pide que dejes la rutina y hagas algo por Él que te asusta? Eso sucede todo el tiempo. ¿Te acuerdas de Jonás y de Pedro? La Biblia está llena de historias sobre personas que fueron llamadas por Dios a cruzar un espacio, a caminar sobre el agua o a ir con Él a un lugar desconocido. Hoy nos está pidiendo que salgamos del recinto de nuestro Cuerpo y que demos a conocer la Palabra. ¡El General ha declarado que este es el año de la movilización! Ve al encuentro del mundo con el mensaje de esperanza y sanación en el Nombre de Jesús. Contamos con la promesa de que Él irá con nosotros y trabajará con nosotros.

find us on facebook / estamos en facebook / 페이스북 방문 환영 www.facebook.com/saconnects

2017 JULY/AUGUST

iStock (3)

Vol. 3, No. 6

CONTENTS JULY/AUGUST 2017

IN focus

1 our leaders 4 from the editor 6 ethically speaking

ON file

5 relevents

Ester Ellen Nelson talks about The Whole World Mobilizing campaign.

28 testimony Marcus Cooper’s life changed dramatically when he found the Army’s Kroc Center in Philadelphia.

3 0 wholly living To belong is to worship, sing, pray, and read Scripture together in community, be it near or far.

World Mobilizing

See how soldiers are leaving their citadels and are taking the gospel message to the streets and into people’s homes.

24 Driven to Change

11 One Step at a Time

Prayer walks, door–to–door evangelism, open–air meetings, and one–on–one talks move the TWWM campaign forward.

27 LEAD

15 Equipped to Serve

“Disciple–making is the foremost task we have as Christians,” says Isaiah Allen, director of the Army’s LEAD Summit 2017.

Do you want to join the TWWM campaign? Here’s how you can tool–up and go!

Cover Illustration by Joe Marino

32 General’s Remix “Go out into the communities where we are placed to be shining lights!” Read more of General André Cox’s TWWM Remix.

features

7 The Whole

FAITH in ACTION Doug Hughes had no idea that a routine traffic stop would lead to the start of his new life.

Photo by Susan Magnano

19 Brew Something!

Armed with mobile beverage dispensers, these Salvationists take the love of Christ to homeless and hurting people in the streets.

Para leer más artículos en español por favor visite

SACONNECTS.ORG/ENESPANOL

find us on facebook / estamos en facebook / 페이스북 방문 환영 www.facebook.com/saconnects

2017 JULY/AUGUST

IN focus

from the editor

the magazine

ON THE WEB COMMISSIONING 2017

Rescue the perishing! ¡Rescatemos a los que están pereciendo! The Day of Prayer for Victims of Human Trafficking will be held on Sunday, Sept. 24. On that day, Salvationists worldwide will help break the “Chains of Bondage” with their fervent prayers. Here in the northeast United States, those chains are particularly heavy. Of the top 11 states where sexual trafficking is at its worst, several of them are in the Army’s Eastern Territory. In our next SAconnects, we’ll highlight some of the people and programs involved in the Army’s effort to combat this problem. You’ll read how survivors are being rescued and restored so they may live normal, productive lives. Join us as we go places where few evangelists dare to tread. See how services for victims are helping them literally remove the marks of this scourge (identifying tattoos). Read how survivors are getting a new look, a new job, and a new lease on life. The good news is that there has been a groundswell of activities at the local, state, and federal level during the past five years that are helping to change victims’ lives for the better. The next SAconnects will help you further understand how to “say something when you see something” and how to effectively participate in rescuing men, women, boys, and girls from this growing industry.

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

JULY/AUGUST 2017

El Día de Oración por las víctimas del tráfico humano se celebrará el domingo 24 de septiembre. Ese día, los salvacionistas de todo el mundo ayudarán a romper las “cadenas del cautiverio” con sus oraciones fervientes. Aquí en el noreste de los Estados Unidos, esas cadenas son particularmente pesadas. De los once estados donde el tráfico sexual es peor, varios de ellos se encuentran en el Territorio Este del Ejército de Salvación. En nuestro próximo número de SAconnects, destacaremos a algunas de las personas y de los programas que forman parte del esfuerzo del Ejército para combatir este problema. Leerás acerca de cómo los sobrevivientes han estado siendo rescatados y rehabilitados para que puedan tener vidas normales y productivas. Únete a nosotros y acompáñanos a lugares que pocos evangelistas se atreven a visitar. Ve con tus propios ojos cómo los servicios a las víctimas están ayudándoles literalmente a eliminar las marcas de este flagelo (identificando los tatuajes). Lee y entérate del modo en que los sobrevivientes han cambiado su apariencia, obtenido nuevos trabajos y conseguido una nueva forma de vida. Las buenas noticias son que ha habido una gran oleada de actividades a nivel local, estatal y federal en los últimos cinco años que han estado ayudando a cambiar las vidas de las víctimas mejorándolas. El próximo número de SAconnects te ayudará a comprender mejor cómo “decir algo cuando veas algo” y cómo participar de manera eficaz a la hora de rescatar a hombres, mujeres, niños y niñas de esta industria creciente.

During Commissioning weekend (June 9–11), as many as a million people were reached via Facebook Live and Livestream Broadcasts on SAconnects.org. The Ordination & Commissioning and Appointment services were enjoyed by internet viewers in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Australia. They also returned to the site to revisit prerecorded events. The “Commissioning Wrap Up,” daily stories written by SAconnects magazine staff and posted on the website and other posts on Facebook and Facebook Live, were also popular destinations. In late July and early August, go to SAconnects.org for daily coverage from Maine of the Old Orchard Beach Camp Meetings. Find all our issues in one place!

SAconnects.org/digital–edition

IN OTHER NEW S

¡Triunfarán!

among Latino book award finalist s ¡Triunfarán! au thored by Colonel Fr ank Pay ton, is am ong the final ists in the Latino Litera cy Now’s an nu al book competition. Both the Eng lis h and Spanish vers ions of the b ook are in contention fo r the “Best R eligious Book” of 2017 . In an open le tter, Kirk Whi sler of Latino Literacy Now , wrote, “Cong ratulations for your achiev ement and yo ur involvement. Thank s for making a difference in Latino pub lishing.” — On Septem ber 8–10 in Lo s Angeles, California, th e award ceremon competition will hold its y and author ac tivities.

ON file

relevents Ester Ellen Nelson, project manager for

The Whole World Mobilizing (TWWM) campaign at the Salvation Army’s International Headquarters in London, talks about light in Iceland, youth involvement in the Church, and the challenges of being a long–distance grandmother. interview by Hugo Bravo

Photo by Berni Georges

London is the first big city I’ve lived in, and it’s fascinating. I grew up in Choteau, Montana. For the past 10 years, I lived in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. Both were small and secluded places. But here in London, I have access in one place to everything I could ever need. I also love London’s spring weather. A springtime experience is rare in a place like Iceland. Now in London, I’m seeing flowers bloom for the first time in a decade.

Through TWWM, we’re getting youth involved in The Salvation Army. All around the world, we’ve seen them lead services and devotionals, help in their neighborhoods, and express themselves and their love for Christ. It was a blessing to see the youth from the Reykjavik Corps—my home corps in Iceland—be a part of TWWM. I was seven years old when I started going there. My parents did not attend church, so there was no one to guide me to Christ, tell me that He loved me, and show me how I could be part of the church. It’s important to give children such guidance and opportunity. I know, so personally what was missing from my past, so I take joy in providing those things for others.

Recently, I read a great book called Indelible Ink. The author, Scott Larson, spoke to 22 prominent Christian authors and asked them which book, besides the Bible, had inspired them the most. A few authors mentioned books that I know and love, such as The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis. Other titles were old and out of print, but I made certain to search for these recommendations. Reading Indelible Ink expanded my education and walk with God.

I have three amazing children. My oldest is Shad Christian, my middle is Joseph Socrates, and my youngest is Lilia Olsk. Shad is living in the United States. He and his wife just had Keegan Xavier, my first grandchild. I love seeing him through Skype and social media. The difference in time and space makes being a John 12:46 says “I am here to bring light in this world, freeing everyone grandmother a bit difficult. Shad is great at who believes in Me from the darkness that blinds him” (VOICE). It does not sending updates on what Keegan is doing, matter who we are, or what we have done in the past. If we are repentant but I get lots of pictures of Keegan just sleepand willing to go forward, Jesus’ light is waiting for us. I also have a pering. Fortunately, Lilia and I are making plans sonal connection with light. When I lived in Iceland, I didn’t see much light to travel soon to the U.S. to see him. in the winter. When the light finally appeared after months of cold, dark, rainy weather, it did amazing things for the surroundings. I saw new colors and shades that I could not see before, and the world became a different place, just as when I received the light of Jesus.

find us on facebook / estamos en facebook / 페이스북 방문 환영 www.facebook.com/saconnects

2017 JULY/AUGUST

IN focus

Ethically Speaking by Colonel Richard Munn

the magazine

your connection to The Salvation Army

USA EASTERN TERRITORY

ASSISTED SUICIDE SUICIDIO ASISTIDO Modern medicine remarkably prolongs life. However, this can sometimes mean prolonged suffering. Nowadays, a mentally competent adult, diagnosed with a terminal illness and a life expectancy of less than six months, can ask a physician to provide a lethal prescription in several U.S. states. Supporters of assisted suicide see the matter in terms of autonomy and death with dignity. Critics who oppose the idea cite a fundamental violation of the Hippocratic Oath and note that countries already legislating the procedure experience a steady rise in the frequency of the practice. The very availability of physician–assisted suicide can mean that both patient and family members feel pressure towards this option. In contrast, The Salvation Army has been historically at the forefront of suicide prevention counselling. Scripture communicates that human life is sacred. This means:  We must not violate human life, including our own.  It is God who gives life and God who decides when it ends.  We are always to care and cure if possible, never to harm or induce death. In Christ, the promise of eternal life enables people to transcend very real trials and tribulations. This “lively confidence” empowers us to both fight death and then make peace with our human frailty when our time to enter heaven is imminent. The options set by Moses can also be ours: “I have set before you life and death … now choose life, so that you and your children may live” (Deut. 30:19).

JULY/AUGUST 2017

La medicina moderna ha logrado prolongar la vida de manera notable. Sin embargo, esto puede significar a veces prolongar el sufrimiento de las personas. En la actualidad, un adulto mentalmente competente, al que se le ha diagnosticado una enfermedad terminal y una expectativa de vida de menos de seis meses, puede pedirle a un médico que le recete el suicidio asistido en varios estados de la Unión Americana. Los defensores del suicidio asistido ven el asunto en términos de autonomía y de muerte con dignidad. Los críticos que se oponen a esta idea invocan una violación fundamental del Juramento Hipocrático y notan que los países donde ya se ha legislado a favor de este procedimiento han experimentado un alza constante en la frecuencia de esta práctica. La mera disponibilidad del suicidio asistido por indicación de un médico puede implicar que tanto el paciente como la familia se sientan presionados a elegir esta opción. Por contraste, el Ejército de Salvación ha estado históricamente a la vanguardia de la orientación espiritual encaminada a la prevención del suicidio. La Escritura establece que la vida humana es sagrada. Esto significa que:  N o debemos violentar la vida humana, incluida la nuestra.  E s Dios quien da la vida y Dios quien decide cuándo termina.  S iempre debemos cuidar y, si es posible, curar a las personas; nunca dañarlas ni inducirlas a morir. En Cristo, la promesa de la vida eterna permite que las personas superen las pruebas y las tribulaciones. Esta “animada confianza” nos empodera al mismo tiempo para luchar contra la muerte y para hacer las paces con nuestra fragilidad humana cuando nuestra hora de pasar a la vida en el cielo sea inminente. Las opciones expresadas por Moisés pueden ser nuestras: “Te he dado a elegir entre la vida y la muerte… Elige, pues, la vida, para que vivan tú y tus descendientes” (Deuteronomio 30:19).

TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioner William A. Bamford III Commissioner G. Lorraine Bamford 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 Doris Marasigan 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. 6, July/August 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.

www.saconnects.org www.facebook.com/saconnects www.twitter.com/saconnects

THE WHOLE WORLD

MOBILIZING

A CAMPAIGN TO REACH COMMUNITIES Warren L. Maye and Robert Mitchell contributed to this article

“When we look at the state of the world today, many of us tremble, yet the message of the Gospel of God is unchanged.” —GENERAL ANDRÉ COX INTERNATIONAL LEADER OF THE SALVATION ARMY

Today, when the dimensions of religious tolerance are challenged and only some communities realize The Salvation Army is a church, General André Cox, the Army’s international leader, has called Salvationists to emerge from their “citadels” and to advance into surrounding neighborhoods. His aim is to see them share the Gospel of Christ and deepen their love relationship with people.

The Whole World Mobilizing campaign (TWWM), conceived and formulated in partnership with the USA Eastern Territory’s The Salvation Factory, is designed to enhance the Army’s presence around the world and to spread its outreach to people in local communities through its corps and Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARC) ministries. Commissioner William A. Bamford, territorial commander, is excited about the campaign’s potential to enhance the Salvation Army’s global and local influence. His hope is that the mobilization of men, women, and youth will open new doors of ministry. Building such rapport and connectedness, he believes, will lead to courageous conversations where real need is

ultimately expressed, partnerships are formed, and Christ becomes a reality in people’s lives. “Obviously, there are going to be some people who will need our support. This conversation will help get us there,” he said.

DISPENSING GOD’S LOVE

On his office window hangs a small but beautifully handcrafted work in colorful stained glass. Within its rectangular wooden frame, sunlight sparkles through the word pharmacist. “My wife made this sign for me,” he said. “It reminds me of the day when, while working as a pharmacist in Massachusetts, I stood behind a counter and heard the Lord say to me, ‘You’ve been dispensing this

medication, but I’m calling you to dispense something else.’” Bamford sees the campaign as an opportunity for every Salvationist in the territory to dispense God’s love into the lives of people. “There are streets of opportunity in every community,” he said. “There are people out there who don’t know who we are. They don’t see us as part of the Church. We need to be out there and we need to be proud of who we are and to wear our uniform so that people will recognize us and say, ‘There goes The Salvation Army.’” Bamford, reflecting on the ministry of Jesus, continued, “Jesus walked the streets. As He walked along, He interacted with people. Whether it be at a stoplight, or just walking down the street, we need to start the conversation.” Bamford said such introductions will lead to a deeper connection. “Have cookouts, share doughnuts, stage a concert, but remember, it’s the connection that opens the door. Let the people know we’re here—for them.”

MARCHING INTO THE FUTURE

Commissioners G. Lorraine and William A. Bamford III, territorial leaders.

What most excites Lt. Colonel James LaBossiere, program secretary, is the prospect of the campaign becoming an integral part of the Army’s ministries throughout the territory. “One of the most important things for me is helping people to see the possibilities and to establish this as the norm, rather than a ‘once off,’” he said. “Hopefully, they’ll see this as the way in which we need to live and to display our faith.” LaBossiere says that, in marching through communities, the Army must be sensitive to and respect local ordinances, rules, and regulations. But even in the process of complying with such guidelines governing outdoor marches and open–air meetings, opportunities abound to serve and to partner with

THE WHOLE WORLD MOBILIZING

others. “We must embrace the idea that there is more that we can do than we can’t do,” he said. “We’ve seen opportunities to partner with parks departments and with other local entities by supporting each other’s outdoor events.” He also said that, at an Emancipation Proclamation observance and parade, the Army received an invitation to distribute water. Those points of contact with multiple individuals became practical opportunities to potentially quench both their physical and spiritual thirsts.

CROSS–GENERATIONAL

“

LaBossiere is also thrilled that people of all ages are involved. “It’s cross– generational,” he said. “Back in April, we had a campaign for children and youth. The meeting started as a rally, but quickly moved to the streets. I’m so greatly encouraged when I see our young people stand for Christ.” LaBossiere, who is an avid hiker, wants youth and adults to take courageous steps of faith to reach people for Christ, now and in the future. “I want them, as I did, to go from being afraid of going out, to wanting to go out. We want them to share the joy, love, and vibrancy of our faith with everyone and in practical ways.”

A VISION FOR INNOVATION

finalizing a plan, the Busseys also held many Facetime sessions with the committee. “It’s been exciting to see it become a reality,” said Envoy Steve Bussey. He recalled the 2015 Boundless Congress, which was held in the O2 Arena in London. “When I looked out over that stadium, I was amazed at how many Salvationists there are in the world,” he said. “I realized The Salvation Army is giant around the world. If you brought all of

Earlier this year, the General appointed Commissioner Rosalie Peddle, World Secretary for Women’s Ministries and World President of SA Scouts, Guides, and Guards, to chair The Whole World Mobilizing Committee. She wrote to the Eastern Territory and asked if The Salvation Factory could help establish a vision for the campaign. Envoys Sharon and Steven Bussey, who co–lead The Salvation Factory, traveled to International Headquarters (IHQ) and met with the General, Peddle, and the committee. In the process of

The idea became, rather than call everyone to one place, what if there was a way to knit Salvationists together in a shared experience where they could recognize the scope of Salvationism around the world? —Envoy Steven Bussey

”

the Salvationists in the world together, you’d need a hundred O2 Arenas to hold them all.” Since that’s not possible, a different concept of a worldwide gathering took shape in the minds of committee members. “The idea became, rather than call everyone to one place, what if there was a way to knit Salvationists together in a shared experience where they could recognize the scope of Salvationism around the world?”

find us on facebook / estamos en facebook / 페이스북 방문 환영 www.facebook.com/saconnects

Bussey recalls. He said there are many small Salvation Army corps around the world, but when every senior and junior soldier is mobilized, they could collectively have a tremendous influence. “Part of this vision answered the question, ‘How do we unite Salvationists together like a Greek phalanx [assemblage] who are coordinated and united together in a shared experience of living out Salvationism and sharing the Gospel?’ “The Whole World Mobilizing is a campaign designed to break what the General is calling the ‘citadel mentality.’ He says an Army that has been defeated will retreat to a citadel, behind walls, and hide themselves from the enemy,” Bussey said. “But how can we be an Army of salvation that is on the offense, but we’re hiding away from the war and the battlefield? We actually should be going out on the offense.” Bussey said TWWM lets every soldier know that they play a role in a spiritual battle. “There are 1.5 million Salvationists,” he said. “If we could mobilize them, we would see this world transformed. We would see the Gospel being communicated. We would also see The Salvation Army transformed. “Salvationism only makes sense

2017 JULY/AUGUST

when we are engaged and mobilized. We were born in the streets.” Bussey also quoted Founder William Booth, who said, “So far as I can see, the great battles of the future will be fought in the open air.”

REACHING LOST SOULS

Bussey said of the lost souls, “They are our people. That’s our mandate. That’s our founding vision. Salvationism doesn’t make sense unless we are a mobilized Army.” Bussey said corps should be innovative as they plan projects for the campaign, whether meeting a need or holding an open–air meeting. “We have to attract attention,” he said. “We must be intentional. “Salvationists should also preach redemption—always,” he said. “The reason we have a spectacle, the reason we go out of our buildings, the reason we connect with people, isn’t just so we know who people are, it’s because people are [spiritually] lost,” he said. “The ultimate cancer they are struggling with is—sin. “The eternal consequence of that is an eternity of punishment and

JULY/AUGUST 2017

separation from God. Therefore, we have to be an army of salvation.” Bussey said the campaign is about “getting out and doing anything.” Many corps have developed innovative plans, from prayer walks to block parties to witnessing opportunities. “The idea is to get out and engage and demonstrate that there’s a group of people who care about the lost,” he said. “A march can be manifested by handing a person a cup of soup or by having a conversation at a school. A ‘march’ is going to the people to communicate the Gospel. The idea of a ‘worldwide march’ is stepping out of our buildings and into the community with intentionality to see people saved. “Witnessing is like a muscle. If you don’t use it, you lose it. It would be sad if the Lord were to come back and find that Salvationists were locked in a cupboard. It doesn’t make any sense.”

BEYOND THE IMAGINATION

Bussey, quoting Ephesians 3:20, said, “When Salvationists are empowered by the Holy Spirit, God will show them ‘immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.’

“This campaign is about stepping out and seeing God do things above what we could hope or imagine,” he said. “When we get serious about His commission, that’s when we can experience the full empowerment of the Holy Spirit. That’s when we see things that are not done in our strength. “When we start going, that’s when we truly know the full strength of the Lord. When we go, that’s when we truly are The Salvation Army and we live out our birthright. That’s when we truly become who we were designed to be.” “The idea is that mobilized Salvationism becomes a natural part of what we do,” Bussey said. “It’s the reestablishment of one of the most vital priorities in The Salvation Army. It’s a rebirthing of a spirit of Salvationism. “Anyone can do this. You don’t need a giant budget. Just get out and do it. Be Salvationists. Every experience can be a micro–open air.” Salvationists can go to The Whole World Mobilizing phone app and be inspired as they see events posted from around the world. (Above) Lt. Colonels James and Patricia LaBossiere, territorial secretary for program and territorial secretary for Spiritual Life Development.

THE WHOLE WORLD MOBILIZING

ONE STEP AT A TIME The Eastern Territory Mobilizes

“

In this battlefield, we need soldiers to be mobilized for the fight. — GENERAL ANDRÉ COX INTERNATIONAL LEADER OF THE SALVATION ARMY

”

The USA Eastern Territory has manufactured and will distribute 25,000 pocket–sized “The Whole World Mobilizing” (TWWM) flags to commemorate the campaign and to motivate soldiers to make their presence felt in local communities. Throughout this year, Salvationists will pass along a full–sized flag that corps leaders will share as it travels throughout the territory, as would an Olympic torch. The flag will serve as a symbol of the campaign’s intent to inspire soldiers to march. It is anticipated that soldiers in every corps will do something to proclaim God’s love and to capture the attention and the imagination of people in their respective neighborhoods. Already, Salvationists have gone from door to door, and from town to town to visit people, to share small gifts, and to pray. In May, corps from all over the territory held a TWWM Children & Youth Weekend. The international hashtag #GoMoCY and the territorial hashtag #GoMoCYUSAEast connected participants via the internet. Booth Youth also posted messages on www.saconnects.org.

2017 JULY/AUGUST

The following are specific examples of what is going on around the territory regarding the campaign at corps and Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARCs). These centers will also be more intentional in community involvement. Each ARC will participate in one community event per year.

EMPIRE STATE DIVISION In the Empire State Division, some corps leaders have planned evangelistic campaigns. In Olean, N.Y., on Good Friday, the corps members held a “Soup, Soap, and Salvation” event. They dispensed about 100 copies of The Wordless Book (the salvation story), packages of soup, and small bars of soap, said Envoy Anna Hawkins. The Niagara Falls, N.Y., Corps has used the “His Pins” archery classes to draw people to several corps events, including “The Whole World Mobilizing” prayer night. Captains Stephen and Delia Carroll have planned “Street Teams,” and a BBQ Bible Study/VBS that will happen in the corps parking lot. Attendees will enjoy free dinners, fellowship, activities for kids, and, of course, Bible lessons. The Schenectady, N.Y., Corps offered a different activity every day, from prayer meetings on Fridays to a senior soldier enrollments on Sundays. In March, the Geneva, N.Y., Corps held a prayer walk. In the future, the corps will start a “Family Fun Night.” The event will offer activities, food, family fellowship, and a program presented by the youth of the corps. That same month, the Ogdensburg, N.Y., Corps hosted the North Country Children and Youth Night. Fifty people participated in an outreach to elementary and high school students, nursing home residents, elderly citizens, and police officers. In

JULY/AUGUST 2017

June, the corps threw a party to mark the end of the school year and to continue The Whole World Mobilizing campaign. In May, 27 corps members introduced themselves to the surrounding Cortland, N.Y., business community by going from store to store along Main Street. The corps is also hosting a community carnival in July that will offer games, food, and giant inflatables.

GREATER NEW YORK DIVISION In the Greater New York Division, corps officers launched its campaign in January. In March, a weekend was set aside to motivate and energize young

people. The division has also asked each corps to commit to pray as a congregation for the campaign effort. This year, the theme for Family Camp is “Go Forward.” On Palm Sunday, members of the Manhattan Citadel Corps in Harlem marched from 125th Street and 3rd Avenue to the Harlem Temple Corps on 138th and Malcolm X Blvd (Lenox Avenue). They prominently displayed The Salvation Army flag on the beautiful spring day. Backed up by a brass band, people waved palm branches, carried balloons, shared tracts, and held conversations with onlookers. At the open–air meeting in front of Harlem

THE WHOLE WORLD MOBILIZING

are planned. Door–to–door evangelism, parades, prayer walks, open–air meetings, a neighborhood walk, and outdoor prayer meetings are also on the drawing board. During the March 24–26 Weekend for Youth and Children, the Toledo (Temple), Ohio, Corps, the Toledo ARC, and cadets from the College for Officer Training (CFOT) engaged in many outreach events, including a prayer walk. They also distributed food and candy bars at nearby housing complexes and visited 227 homes. A canteen distributed 154 meals of hot dogs, chips, and drinks.

NEW JERSEY DIVISION The New Jersey Division started its campaign with a day of prayer and fasting. A committee will track plans, which include sports events, parades, open–air meetings, missional one–on–one conversations, and other outdoor events.

NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND DIVISION Temple, a man said, “This reminds me of when I was a drug addict on the street and the Salvation Army ARC took me in, and—saved my life.” The Queens (Temple), N.Y., Corps is holding Friday night meetings with the Bronx (Tremont), N.Y., Corps.

MASSACHUSETTS DIVISION Almost all of the corps in the Massachusetts Division have plans for the campaign, including a junior soldiers’ rally. Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) units will play a huge role. Several corps have held prayer

walks. The Boston Central Corps has implemented an aggressive door–to– door evangelism ministry. The Attleboro Corps distributes doughnuts at a train station, and the New Bedford Corps uses its canteen (mobile food truck) ministry in communities.

The Northern New England (NNE) Division kicked things off at its Soldier Summit in March and brainstormed ideas for the year. In August, at least seven corps will be involved in SoulFest, an outdoor music concert. In addition to a soldiers summit kids council, each corps congregation is encouraged to do something outside their buildings in addition to their normal programs.

NORTHEAST OHIO DIVISION The NEOSA Division’s canteen ministry is providing snacks, water, coffee, hot chocolate, and the gospel message. Participation by the Salvation Army Volunteer Empowerment (SAVE), a young mothers’ fellowship, tent meetings, and ministry to seniors

find us on facebook / estamos en facebook / 페이스북 방문 환영 www.facebook.com/saconnects

PUERTO RICO & VIRGIN ISLANDS DIVISION The Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands Division started its campaign with 40 days of prayer in January and February. In San Juan, The Salvation Army

2017 JULY/AUGUST

MOBILIZING in Newark partnered with the Franklin Graham campaign in February, and the New York Staff Band ministered there that same month. The division also plans to mobilize with territorial evangelists, music and arts practitioners, children, and social service professionals.

SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND Southern New England (SNE) made the campaign the focus of its officers’ councils as early as last year. In March, corps in Rhode Island conducted various outreach efforts during the visit of the Eastern Territorial Songsters. The Hartford (Citadel), Conn., Corps will hold prayer walks. The Waterbury, Conn., Corps will visit all the homes within a half–mile radius of its building.

SOUTHWEST OHIO & NORTHEAST KENTUCKY DIVISION In the Southwest Ohio & Northeast Kentucky Division (SWONEKY), the Cincinnati Social Ministries Department held several outdoor activities such as distributing scarves, offering free haircuts and clothing, and delivering lunches to homeless people. The Columbus Citadel Corps members conducted an outdoor Sunday school and marched through the community. Each corps set a goal to hold a half night of prayer and to reach communities with block parties, summer feeding programs, open–air meetings, concerts in the park, nursing home ministries, and free giveaways in parking lots.

EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA & DELAWARE DIVISON The young people of the Philadelphia, Pa., Tabernacle Corps have prayed with people and distributed food in the community, according to Captain Miguel Robinson.

JULY/AUGUST 2017

WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA DIVISION Last October, leaders of the Western Pennsylvania Division (WEPASA) discussed campaign plans at officers’ councils. They asked each corps to make the campaign an integral part of their outreach. A committee will plan, aid, and implement these ideas. Support and Learning Teams (SALT) are expected to be a vital link. In May, the division held a “Mobilization Tour” during National Salvation Army Week. Divisional leaders visited all 38 corps—in a week. Major David Rhodes, the divisional youth secretary in Western Pennsylvania, said a canteen and a few vehicles visited all 38 corps in the division. “God just gave me a vision that we needed to get out in the division and see what’s going on and this was the perfect opportunity,” Rhodes said. “It’s been a blessing to just get out and see people and get them interested in what the Army is doing. “It varies from day to day what we do. At some corps, we’ve done open– air meetings. At others, we’ve passed out doughnuts and coffee in the morning to commuters. We also held a block party. It’s been great to see all the ideas the corps officers have.” Captain David Means in Bradford, Pa., said his corps is working on a street ministry team that will be involved in Bradford’s local fairs and festivals. “We are looking at giving out bottles of water to encourage the community to pick up one of our bottles rather than a beer bottle,” he said. “We also are going to sell some food from a grill and pitch a prayer tent.” “We’re going to train our people to reach folks during the festival. Our hope isn’t just to have people come on a Sunday, but rather to get them saved— on the street.”

Every year, The Salvation Army’s Newark (Westside), N.J., Corps’ KINSHIP program sponsors information fairs to make sure people in the community know what services are available to assist them. To facilitate these fairs, we send invitations to about 100 organizations. Typically, about 30–40 respond. Their representatives come to our corps gym, set up tables, and talk to attendees about the help they can provide as part of our community ministry. These services include access to clothing and doctors, cosmetic services, and even assistance with moving furniture. New this year is a table from Mary Kay that will offer facials and manicures to the women. Soldier Velda Steele

These services mobilize the older members of our ministry. Many of them want to get out of their homes and be involved. They want to be active in the church and to socialize. Many are alone. Their families live too far to be part of their daily lives. At the corps, they can share their hopes, dreams, problems, and concerns about themselves, their families, and their community. People who suffer loneliness find a second family here. We want to say to our community, “We will give you food, find assistance for you, help you heal, and show you the love of Christ. We also want you to feel good about yourself. We want you to make friends and to socialize. We want you to feel pampered (if you can’t do it for yourself) because this is another way of uplifting your spirit.” — by Rosario Reimon–Jenkins, Director of the KINSHIP/GFSC (Grand Family Success Center) at the Newark Westside Corps

START

HOW TO BUILD A

The General has issued a challenge to The Salvation Army world to move beyond our corps buildings and out into our communities to share the love of Jesus.

THE WHOLE WORLD MOBILIZING TOOLKIT EQUIPPING SALVATIONISTS TO REACH THEIR LOCAL COMMUNITIES WITH THE LOVE OF GOD

rld wo ! he heal. t t h und o dt ig m ts aro ve an a nis to s y! rm d a ty

? O G Y WH

Join MO to de with ov BIL mon e stra r 1.5 IZ te t mi ED llio he Be po ap we n Sa ar t lv ro of f o atio Go ur d’s G m o ig h

General André Cox

in ur c D o IZE of y d a len nd ds BIL MO he nee d and ting a ted. t r nee hu jec l ar ge in e e n i r r Enga ple o a en rcifu wh be r p eo e Care fo r those have ’s m d Pray fo who of Go t par

“If the people will not come to see us, the greater is the necessity and urgency that will be laid upon us to go to them. And to them we Salvationists must and will go.” General William Booth

Be a

m y!

“We’re confronted with the reality of a world mired in sin, injustice, suffering and poverty. Through the events of the Boundless Congress, God clearly called us to total mobilization. Every corps, every institution, and every Salvation Army program must be ‘salt and light’ to the people and communities we serve.”

om cy he mu ! lov lping nity. et ho hand se .

ut ion s abo s s r . mi the

in life s ho MOBILIZED hare wit n your New i ood de y to s

a Take every opportunit s m t the G oo. rd ha t the difference the Lo now tha lives k eir my! Don’t be afraid to let them h t r ge chan al a of Jesus Christ can mission od’s Be a part of G

“Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.” Mark 16:15

ave rayer, sh p ner ighty n i ul w and m e been ring, o s at ch ls hav rseve gre mu .” “All le] of reviva t by pe loset u ec op reat o e h t d p in n[ ll g rrie ngle bee and a nd ca work Bre e gan a e o d L n e k uel ced ng, Sam pre evaili ner o i s pr s

GO PRAY!

Com

OR -DO od, a o R-TO DOO ighborh ur are CONDUCT ne yo . your e in u visitation in eopl ow yo the p n getting to know t to k em ge and letting th

“So far as I can see, the great battles of the future will be fought in the open air.”

available on iTune

! ti GOterna ok T’S in bo LE ith the Face ation n t w , and Salv ssio i nec Con te, app obal in m si gl web n the bilize i o to jo we m as

store for Search the app ld Mobilising or The Whole W and the Google app store

on pa al ge Ar . my

GE TT O so KN are that OW rea you Y ch can OUR i me ng o ens CO an ut i ure MM n i GO ngful rele that UNIT LE way vant you Y AR an N s. d

get a dy … er of o b y corn s in to an “Go ks at the he color t c e. t a g s r i bar villa . Ho reet ity, and , make t s y y ever y port, c y, testif h the ever sing, pla orld wit h, ew .” Marc e. Fill th alvation s is f o o n h d a Boot soun illiam ral W

Gene

Get more information here: www.salvationfactory.org www.saconnects.org www.facebook.com/mobilising

ASK THE LORD FOR: • vision to see the possibilities • open doors and opportunities • courage to share the Gospel

LEARN! GO

Set up an account here: mobilising.salvationarmy.org

TA ab LK T o yo ut g O Y u de r loc athe OUR r m a an ogr l co ing in COR m d u ap se hic mun form PS O thi s. S ity atio s t h n FF pla infor udy t istor , inc ICER m lu h y ny ou ation ese d and ding ro utr to st ocum othe r r ea ch ateg ents . ica lly

2 ECT! NN O

General William Booth

Before you take one step forward, make sure to go pray. Pray individually and as a corps for your community.

“Don’t

r small

N rs. These GOTeamP” oLf vA oluntee serve. ady to

GO OB ILIZ E!

.”

DESIGNATE A PHOTOGRAPHER . to rec ord your mobilization event

Don’t forget to take selfies with TWWM mini flag!

! GET OR the F of N’T DO he day ber to On t remem owing kn nt, eve gether, he ed t pirit to e y n a e pr yS w l that the Ho ses. s f o n r t i e e pow e His w b to

“Go and re me of p your xcited r your ti Develo o are e h w pare fo le re p p : o d e to n p are plan a ember ill help lan, rem They w s you p ke a A . n o ti a ds to ta mobiliz ing nee hink th T . ry s e e v E Not e e and resourc st out IV T A E BE CR t of tim make the mo mitmen big com vative ways to o n at about in u have. e sure th y. t yo to mak r rm e of wha A b n m o me Salvati r BLE Re ith The ear you NTIFIA fy you w would help. W BE IDE ti n e id ear can people entity w . rm of id proudly Some fo Army uniform can n essage Salvatio t your m d so that a th re ke su nicate AR Ma commu trying to ry BE CLE d easily what you are ve n a ly k the deli in t n be quic n understand articipa t a p a c th ry le e g p v o in e pe rain e brand plish. T d provid accom age an s s e m of this al is s it. your go er that support b of r m e te n m ou AL Re ive enc ENTION a posit unity to rt h o it p BE INT w p people e this o ope rch. Us iding h to leave ful prov the Chu e d c n ra a g d d Go , an , loving eet. be kind ility ll you m a to y your ab and jo ited in to m li s n re o a cti you – use a ART If words . r e u BE SM g o a y s fy with el mes to testi e gosp t The nicate th d abou people commu on han re ite v tu In ra e lite orps. DY Hav r local c BE REA Army and you ents. n ev Salvatio rograms and dp n e tt a to

things

r Kiya Y amamu

“We say the world is dying; what for? Downright, straight–forward, honest, loving, earnest testimony about what God can do for souls; that is what it wants.” Catherine Booth

“Those who would move the world must first move themselves.”

! OW IS N our E TIM e all y THE ’ve don and rk o You dy t ewo hom are rea ! u E yo LIZ now MOBI GO

General William Booth

“T met he Chris in t it ha Congr ian Mis sio ess s or to ca ganize to mak n has daS e Wa rry t h a r the fire e blood lvation … o Arm o f f the ever C y h ris H y co rner oly Gho t and s o t f the in Gen eral wor to Will ld.” ia

GO PLAN!

live fo

issione

HAVE A B to make RIEF O s what pa ure eve RIEN T rt the r y a yone AT how tha t resp re pla know ION y with th onsibi ing a s li e lar n ger ty fits d pla n. in

Comm

mB ooth

PRAYER WALK around the community with your corps flag, praying for the inhabitants of every home you walk by.

Bo oth

“G thi reate ng r, if y s ar gran ou e a de r h go w for ill o ead, Ge ner wa nly al W rd! ” illi a

Being mobilized for missio This is the lifestyle n isn’t a o So, let’s find wa f every oneti ys to S o l e v h t e of Chr go f alvati me ev sharing i oni ent. o s t r w w Take every op s portuith our ard da t. w t e h r n a e h s G ity t ord ily, ood N and o s e General Booth said, ws wit go fo and “ a h r That is our specialt We are ever ward ctions. and gettin y: Gett a sa yone g ot ing lva y o her sa tion u meet. peo ved pe ple , kee ople. sav ping s aved, ed.”

GO FORWARD!

A ITE WR ENT M COM scribes de that you’ve t wha om ed fr learn obilized. gm bein

kne wJ esu s, I wa s .. .”

S NE mo IT s W ing rea m t A be BE are ortan ople e s e th t w mp pe i r tha ost see does o be m mbe s e o to Reme ns the wh ss, on y is ea unit one itne ome That m s he comm lw t in our d is aithfu help s t . Go to is f to Chri be H , B, C’s you to le A simp

“Be fore I

ns Roma

the Follow

ive ” org life. f o y st m su d of e d J or ke e L as d b I n n he s a “T sin ...” my m ,Ia w o “N

E EDG OWL re a N K AC t you a ed tha eparat . r, s sinne Holy God a 3 from :2 3

S bil ! i on zed ak we for m a i e av a c re e ssion n . ac read ing, omm gage bu ce y d i t m t t pt o Ch go He ne ent ris sav eds t in to t e. hei r lif e!

VE u BELIE othing yo n lf e is s r e r he you that t o to save trust in d ly can to simp our gift t y excep Christ as rnal life. s t u e s e r J o e God f from Romans 5:8 ior FESS CON as the Sav , t e f is Chr our li Jesus Lord of y ee offer and g the fr nally. tin so accep ation per lv a :13 s 0 f 1 o

ns Roma

g usin ony . tim w tes s belo and ur yo arter ehand k are st efor nd as a b sh on d i y n y t ta tor pra ge a r s hen oura o yt T rc nit fo rtu . po are op o sh g

GO SHARE!

BE RE A the DY co TIP : w nve to pra rite y rs c o the tice u Lo it. the rd

RE GO PO R “Jesus is mighty to save.” Joe the Turk

GO SAV E!

FOLLO W TH ESE S to repo TEPS rt on h ow you been g have oing fo rward. knows Who ? Perha ps othe be insp rs will ired by your id and ge eas t mobil ized in their own co mmunit y.

OR LD MO BIL IZIN G

TAKE A SEL FIE with Th e Whole World M obilizin g mini fla g.

W HE #T

PO YO ST on PICT UR so cia URE lm ed HO ia. LE W

ith uls w e so ther m o es yo et re ar n an d the ence tha better g u n a ; n s u a yo l s f c f e i n itn at, re i you ust w ave mo uls that souls, th t all.” m u a h e d so “Yo m you ome on—som r be save who eing—s s e r v e e p n b er ly g livin any oth , probab ill ooth an h w t e t ine B a To download this graphic, visit: ather t sav C o n do

www.salvationfactory.org Character Illustrations by Mark Payton

THE WHOLE WORLD MOBILIZING

louched in front of a storefront with her head in her hands, “Courtney” is all too familiar with the stares of disgust and verbal abuse, which she and other homeless people face along Manchester, N.H.’s busiest street. What she is not accustomed to is the love and kindness from the “Mobile Joes,” Captain Mike Harper and ministry assistant Dan LaBossiere of the Manchester, N.H., Corps. Their homeless outreach initiative brightens Courtney’s day with a sandwich and hot coffee from a mobile beverage dispenser LaBossiere lugs through town.

find us on facebook / estamos en facebook / 페이스북 방문 환영 www.facebook.com/saconnects

2017 JULY/AUGUST

“

The people don’t have to come to us. We’re mobile. We’re going where canteens can’t go.

”

—Captain Mike Harper

(Left) Captain Harper and LaBossiere chat with a homeless woman in downtown Manchester. (Right) Harper prays with a homeless man.

“I have a lot of stress,” Courtney explains. “I need to find food. I need to find a place to sleep. The Salvation Army just helped me out with food. “It’s great that they’re out here. People do care.”

GOD IN THE DETAILS

Harper says the vision for “Mobile Joes” was God–ordained. When Harper and his wife, Major Armida Harper, arrived in Manchester last year, he researched the history of the corps and discovered an annual report from 1967. Inside was a photo of a young officer with a mobile beverage dispenser. The Harpers have since learned that the officer was Major Richard Smith, who served in the Western Territory and was promoted to Glory in 1998. The Harpers have contacted Smith’s widow and son, who is also an officer. Harper said when he first saw the photo of Smith, he thought, Why don’t we do that? He researched coffee backpacks on Google and found an online company that made them, but he saved the website for another day.

GOING FOR POKÉMON

Last summer, 26–year–old LaBossiere looked for activities the men at the corps could share. They decided to play Pokémon. “Sometimes, we would just get coffee and walk around the downtown area, playing the game,” LaBossiere recalls. “We said, ‘While we’re out here, just having fun, is there anything we can do?’ We kept walking past these homeless people and there wasn’t really anything we could do for them.”

JULY/AUGUST 2017

LaBossiere said the corps sometimes took sandwiches with them to give to the homeless and they prayed with nearly every person. Harper soon heard General André Cox’s “The Whole World Mobilizing” vision and knew it was the right time to revisit that saved website link. Harper, LaBossiere, and others put their heads together and came up with the “Mobile Joes” concept.

VISION TO REALITY

Once kettle season ended, Harper spent $1,800 to buy two mobile beverage dispensers. The Salvation Factory created a logo for the back of the tanks showing an image of Smith, who heretofore had been known simply as “The 1967 Guy.” “We wanted to pay homage to the past,” Harper said. The tanks, which are carried as backpacks, are equipped with a hose, a cup dispenser, and a pump to pressurize beverages. LaBossiere said the unit is not too heavy and “very well balanced.” In January, Harper and LaBossiere ventured into the cold, carrying sandwiches and coffee. They typically stayed out for about 90 minutes. “Everyone we spoke to was glad to see us,” Harper said. “They were receptive and would share their stories. We got to pray with almost everyone.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

“We just wanted this to be a means to create encounters with people. When you just come up to strangers and give them

THE WHOLE WORLD MOBILIZING

something, it disarms them.” Harper and LaBossiere venture down alleys, walk through parks, and stroll within sections of the city where homeless people congregate. “The beauty of this backpack is that we can go where the people are,” Harper said. “For years, we’ve been setting up canteens on street corners. Now, the people don’t have to come to us on a street corner. We’re mobile. We’re going where canteens can’t go. “We’re meeting people where they are, which is what Jesus did, and we take an interest in them.” Major Armida said the women of the corps would also like to get involved with “Mobile Joes.”

THE MEAN STREETS

“I think the beauty of this is, the people that they encounter may never come to church,” Major Armida said. “A lot of the people who are on the streets are there due to either addiction or mental health issues and they’re not going to feel safe going somewhere. “The fact that we’re going out and meeting them where they are is what’s going to make the difference to them. They may never step foot in our church, but we’re bringing the church to them right where they are.” On a recent night, Harper and LaBossiere encountered several homeless people in Manchester’s parks and streets. “Lynn,” who just found a job at a pizzeria, had enough money to rent a room and get off the streets before someone stole her purse. She said meeting “Mobile Joes” was a welcome reprieve from the people who yell at her, refuse to make eye contact, and consider her less than human for being homeless.

GRATEFUL HEARTS

“We’re just trying to get through each day, just like everyone else,” she said. “It’s nice to see that people are actually trying to do something and help us.” “Diane” and two other homeless women were making plans to sleep “outside somewhere” as dusk approached. “I’m hungry, so this is wonderful,” she said as she ate her sandwich. “There’s not a lot of people who care about the poor and homeless. God bless them for caring about us.” Some of the homeless people were effusive with gratitude. Harper gave his card to many of them and even promised a tent to one homeless man.

BETTER DAYS AHEAD

Harper and LaBossiere ask each person, “May I pray for you?” So far, every person has accepted the offer, including “Courtney.” “I’m not much of a believer, but I hope to believe in

something some day,” she says after the prayer. Courtney has recently found a job, but doesn’t have enough money yet to afford a place to live. “We’re not out here wanting to be homeless or to do drugs or to have suicidal thoughts every second of every day,” she said. Harper came to The Salvation Army after finding—at a dump—a book about William Booth. “I say, ‘I can’t fix all of your problems, but we can give you a cup of hot coffee and a sandwich and show you we care about you,’” Harper said. “Nobody says ‘no’ to that.”

ETERNAL IMPACT

Harper continued, “We may not be able to measure the results, but I think a lot of these interactions—where we just come alongside people—are going to be recorded in heaven. That’s what we’re trying to do—be the arms, hands, and feet of Jesus for people.” Harper hopes to develop enough trust to eventually visit Manchester’s tent cities and do a church service there. LaBossiere said The Salvation Army, dating back to William and Catherine Booth, has always “gone where the people needed them to go.” “We see so many people in need just walking around and if there’s something we can do a few hours a night or a couple of times a week, why shouldn’t we?”

THEY ARE PEOPLE

LaBossiere said one homeless man complained that he sat on a downtown bench all day and no one spoke to him. “For us to say, ‘Hi, how are you?’ is so much more than they are used to hearing,” he said. “They look around to make sure we’re talking to them and not to someone else. They just want to be seen and known by somebody. “This is just a ministry of coming alongside and expressing God’s love and mercy and acceptance for people who otherwise don’t feel cared about.” The Harpers came to Manchester with a heart for the homeless after overseeing shelters at the Cambridge, Mass., Corps.

IT’S ABOUT LOVE

Major Armida, the daughter of retired Lt. Colonels Judy and William LaMarr, said her parents taught her to love the homeless. She knows that some of the people helped by “Mobile Joes” will sadly die without ever finding a home or relief from their addictions and pain. “If this is the night they are to die, maybe their last memory will be of someone showing them kindness instead of pain,” she says. “It’s always worth it to love somebody—it’s always worth it.”

find us on facebook / estamos en facebook / 페이스북 방문 환영 www.facebook.com/saconnects

2017 JULY/AUGUST

PONCE CORPS MOBILIZES EL CUERPO de PONCE se Members of the Salvation Army’s Ponce Corps in Puerto Rico are keeping with the spirit of The Whole World Mobilizing (TWWM) campaign by going outside of the church doors and meeting the needs of and engaging with the local community. “The call of General André Cox to mobilize has resonated with our desire to reach the most vulnerable members of Ponce,” says Major Teresita Pacheco, corps officer. “Our soldiers, adherents, and volunteers are mobilized and are serving Ponce with God on their side.”

MOBILIZED TO LOVE The Ponce Corps Golden Age program, a social gathering for members of the community who are 60 years old and older, originally focused exclusively on local Salvationists. Now, it is open to all seniors of the community. Every Wednesday, as many as 85 of them participate in

JULY/AUGUST 2017

devotionals, exercise, and enjoy games such as bingo and dominoes. “We have seen elderly residents who come in depressed and lonely. Their family might live far from them, or may have forgotten them altogether. After one or two weeks in the Golden Age program, we see a change in their demeanor.” The women of the Golden Age have answered the call to mobilize. They have knitted hats and other articles of clothing for children at a local hospital who are suffering from cancer. Major Pacheco says that seniors who engage in these activities show their love for the Ponce community. Just as the corps members mobilized and reached the elderly of Ponce, the elderly are now reaching out to other people in need.

MOBILIZED TO HEAL The Salvation Army Community

Care ministry, along with the Army’s Emergency Disaster Service (EDS) and the Ponce Corps, are helping homeless residents combat Puerto Rico’s Zika virus outbreak. In one morning program, the coalition served breakfast to 200 Ponce residents and distributed kits containing insect repellant and other health supplies. The residents also received information regarding other services offered by The Salvation Army. The fight against Zika has been going on for over a year in Puerto Rico. The Ponce Corps has also worked in conjunction with the Ponce School of Medicine to distribute Zika kits directly to homes.

MOBILIZED TO REBUILD The movement to mobilize has already affected a life in Ponce, says Pacheco. She remembers how a quiet man who came to the corps on Sunday needed a place to live. A family member had

THE WHOLE WORLD MOBILIZING

PUERTO RICO Ponce

VIRGIN ISLANDS

MOVILIZA by Hugo Bravo

Los miembros del Cuerpo de Ponce del Ponce, han estado ayudando a los residentes Ejército de Salvación, en Puerto Rico, menesterosos a combatir el brote del virus Zika han hecho suyo el espíritu de la campaña Todo en Puerto Rico. En un programa que se realizó el Mundo a Movilizarse, saliendo de la iglesia por la mañana, esta coalición sirvió desayunos a atender las necesidades de la comunidad y a 200 residentes de Ponce y les repartió kits relacionándose estrechamente con ella. que contenían repelente contra insectos y otros “El llamado del General André Cox de movilisuministros para el cuidado de la salud. Los zar a todo el mundo se ha hecho eco en nuestro residentes también recibieron otros servicios deseo de alcanzar a los residentes más vulnerofrecidos por el Ejército de Salvación. La lucha ables de la ciudad de Ponce”, explica la Mayora contra el Zika lleva ya más de un año en Puerto Teresita Pacheco, oficiala directiva del Cuerpo. Rico. El Cuerpo de Ponce también ha estado “Nuestros soldados, adherentes y voluntarios se trabajando en conjunto con la Escuela de han movilizado y están sirviendo a los residentes Medicina de Ponce en la distribución de estos más vulnerables de Ponce con Dios a su lado”. kits de combate contra el Zika directamente a los hogares de los residentes.

MOVILIZADOS PARA AMAR

El programa Edad Dorada del Cuerpo de Ponce, MOVILIZADOS PARA RECONSTRUIR una reunión social para los miembros de la Esta propensión para movilizar al mundo ya ha comunidad mayores de 60 años, se enfocaba afectado a una vida en Ponce, dice Pacheco. Ella originalmente en los salvacionistas de la localrecuerda el modo en que un hombre de aspecto idad. Pero actualmente está disponible para muy tranquilo se acercó al Cuerpo un domingo todos los adultos mayores de Ponce. Cada día diciendo que necesitaba un lugar donde vivir. miércoles, más de 85 de esas personas particUn miembro de su familia le había dejado en ipan en devocionales, ejercicios y disfrutan de herencia una casa, pero esta no tenía electricijuegos como el bingo y el dominó. dad y necesitaba muchos arreglos. “Hemos visto a varios residentes ancianos “Varios miembros del Ministerio de Varones llegar deprimidos y muy solos. Es probable que del Cuerpo de Ponce fueron a la casa de este sus familiares vivan lejos de ellos o hasta que los hombre, rehicieron el patio y el jardín, pintaron hayan olvidado. Al cabo de una o dos semanas en la casa entera dejándola como nueva. Y hasta el programa de la Edad Dorada, ya se percibe un recaudaron dinero para ayudar al hombre a cambio notorio en su forma de comportarse”. pagar la cuenta de la electricidad”, cuenta Las mujeres del programa de la Edad Dorada Pacheco. han respondido al llamado a movilizarse. Han A comienzos de mayo el hombre, muy agratejido sombreros y otros artículos de vestir para decido, y que hasta entonces solía permanecer los niños de un hospital que sufren de cáncer. La en silencio sentado durante los servicios, se Mayora Pacheco dice que las adultas mayores que puso de pie delante de la congregación y contó participan en estas actividades muestran su amor su testimonio. Les dio las gracias a todos los por la comunidad de Ponce. Así como los miemmiembros del Ministerio de Varones que habían bros del Cuerpo se movilizaron y sirvieron a los trabajado en refaccionar su casa. ancianos de Ponce, esos mismos ancianos están “Somos herramientas de Dios. Salimos sirviendo ahora a otras personas necesitadas. al mundo a ayudar a la gente en tiempos de sufrimiento o de preocupación”, dice la Mayora MOVILIZADOS PARA SANAR Pacheco. “Qué privilegio para cada uno de El ministerio de Cuidado Comunitario del nosotros que Él nos movilice para que, en su Ejército de Salvación, junto con el Servicio de nombre, les demos esperanza a los demás y Emergencia y Desastres (EDS) y el Cuerpo de hagamos llegar el amor de Jesús a sus vidas”.

Salvationists from the Ponce Corps Men’s Ministry help fix a home.

Photos court

esy of the Po

nce Corps.

willed a home to him, but it had no electricity and was in need of many repairs. “Members of the Ponce Corps Men’s Ministry went to the home and fixed the landscaping, cleaned the house, and gave it a fresh coat of paint to make it livable and beautiful. They even raised money to help him pay his electric bill,” says Pacheco. In early May, the grateful man, who had previously sat in silence during services, stood in front of the congregation and shared his testimony. He thanked everyone from the men’s ministry who had helped fix his new home. “We’re God’s tools. We go out and help people in times of suffering or worry,” says Major Pacheco. “What a privilege it is that He mobilizes each of us to give others hope, and to introduce the love of Jesus into their lives.”

find us on facebook / estamos en facebook / 페이스북 방문 환영 www.facebook.com/saconnects

2017 JULY/AUGUST

FAITH in ACTION

Driven to

CHANGE Unlike most people, Doug Hughes actually considers being stopped by the police a kind of blessing. A year ago in Canton, Ohio, an officer pulled Hughes over and charged him with driving with a suspended license. The judge sentenced him to community service at The Salvation Army, where he has since gained a full– time job and a community of people who care about him. “I do consider that a blessing,” said Hughes, a single father of a four–year– old boy. “Had that not happened the way it did, who knows where I’d be?” While serving his community service, Hughes impressed everyone at the corps with his strong work ethic and maintenance skills, which he learned from his days while working in construction. Theresa Farello, the director of social services at the corps, thought Hughes would also be perfect for the Pathway of Hope (POH) program and enrolled him.

A NEW LIFE “I approached Doug and asked if he would be open to telling me his story,” Farello said. “I was blown away at the

experiences he had lived through and his determination and willingness to surrender his old ways and make permanent change. He had already started before we met him.” POH helps emergency assistance applicants move beyond crisis and overcome the barriers keeping them in poverty. Clients work with a caseworker to find help with job training, health services, childcare, education, housing options, and legal services. Hughes so impressed the retiring maintenance supervisor at the corps that he recommended Hughes take his place. On Jan. 3 of this year, Hughes started work at the corps. Holding the job has helped change Hughes’ life in so many ways. He now has health insurance for himself and for his son. His POH caseworkers are helping him improve his credit score so he can buy a house.

HARD KNOCKS The 28–year–old Hughes has always been a hard worker, mostly out of necessity. His parents never married. By the time he was a teen, he was staying with friends.

“

by Robert Mitchell

“I had to provide for myself a lot of times,” he said. “But, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I gained a lot of wisdom and experience. I’m a better person for it.” A brick layer, Hughes worked in construction most of his life, but also had stints as a cook and bartender. However, cars were his real love. “I’ve always been infatuated with cars,” he says. “I like the older cars. I have a hard time staying away from driving.” Hughes said a lapse in his auto insurance led to eight license suspensions. But even that couldn’t keep him from driving to work.

WORKING FOR GOD “I had to get to work to pay my bills,” he said. “I’ve always had several cars, sometimes two and three at a time. I had to get to work, so I would get in one of them and drive.” Hughes now has a clean driver’s license. “I did most of that on my own, but the folks here at The Salvation Army made sure I followed through,” he said. For the first time in his life, Hughes drives to work each day to a Christian environment. He calls the Canton Corps

Pathway of Hope is something for people who want to help themselves. This is for people who want to work. This is for people who want to do for themselves and want a better situation. —Doug Hughes—

JULY/AUGUST 2017

”

Photo by Robert Mitchell

PATHWAY OF HOPE

Doug Hughes (right) and his Pathway of Hope case worker, Chris Brown, talking about the events that led him to The Salvatoin Army.

“a very united establishment.” “Everyone here works well together,” he said. “The environment here is a positive one. It’s a pleasurable work environment. “It’s comforting to know that you’re going to come in here and everybody’s going to be happy.”

COMING ALONG The Christian influence has begun to subtly rub off on Hughes, who initially expressed to caseworkers that he didn’t believe in God. He now attends morning prayer meetings. Chris Brown, a POH caseworker in Canton, said Hughes often expresses how he got the job at the corps by the “grace of God.” “I’ve prayed with him, although he wasn’t open to that at first,” Brown says. “It’s a progression with him. He does believe in God now and I think he’ll get there.” Hughes said the POH program is “wonderful” and has helped him reprioritize his life. “What they do is fantastic,” he said. “There are people who might not be in

my exact position, but similar. I believe they need that extra push. “I have a hard time accepting handouts. I don’t like to walk around with my hand out. I would rather obtain [what I need] myself. I feel better when I do it myself.”

HELPING THE WILLING Hughes said he has been told to think of POH as a “scholarship.” “Pathway of Hope is something for people who want to help themselves,” he said. “This is for people who want to work—people who want to do for themselves and want a better situation. “It’s not for the person who is going to roll over and die. It’s for those people who struggle and overcome. It’s for those people who are self–driven and want better for their children.” Brown said the Canton Corps has seven POH clients. “We’ve retained them all by getting to know them and developing relationships,” he said. “We’ve helped people stabilize their lives. We’ve helped people get jobs or at least get to interviews they might not have been able to get on their own.”

find us on facebook / estamos en facebook / 페이스북 방문 환영 www.facebook.com/saconnects

MAKING AN IMPRESSION Brown calls Hughes “super intelligent,” a dedicated father, and a Pathway of Hope success story. “We don’t see a lot of single fathers,” Brown said. “He’s one of our best clients. He’s a hard worker. Doug is just a special guy. I feel like he would have bettered himself whether he was working with us or not. He’s determined.” Farello said watching Hughes and his progress has inspired everyone at the corps. “You have to do the hard work. Doug has been and continues to stay steady with his progress and remain open to coaching in all categories,” she said. “When I challenge him, he responds.” Farello said Hughes continues to build income stability and create a better life for his son. “I admire his hard work, protectiveness, and loyalty to his family,” she said. “Pathway of Hope was designed to walk alongside a man like Doug until, one day, he walks beside another.” For more information about POH, contact your local Salvation Army.

2017 JULY/AUGUST

¡ 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

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. USA Eastern Territory

Commissioners William A. and G. Lorraine Bamford Territorial Leaders

PHILIPPIANS 1:27 (NOG)

FAITH in ACTION

LEAD

WHY DISCIPLESHIP CAN’T WAIT Noun; Our effort to follow Christ and support each other’s progress along the pathway to holiness, from first faith to eternity.

Do you know that the Greek verb for “make disciples,” matheteusate, is used only once in the New Testament? What makes the concept important, however, is the strategic place it appears in the final chapter of Matthew (28:19). This apostle shows a greater emphasis on issues of discipleship (10:24, 16:24, 20:21, and 28:18) than any other New Testament writer. In Matthew 28:18–20, popularly known as “The Great Commission,” Jesus promises His presence as His followers engage in the practices of discipleship. Today, we know His presence through the power of the Holy Spirit. But what do those practices involve? Baptism (v. 19) refers to an event that marks one’s initial faith and conversion; the triune name (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) suggests that conversion has multiple aspects; Teaching (v. 20) refers to an ongoing process of growth; the phrase “whatever I commanded you” suggests a lifetime of learning that involves behavior as well as knowledge and feelings. Both initiation and continuation are essential to disciple–making. It involves our heart, our head, and our hands.

FIRST AND FOREMOST Disciple–making is the foremost task we have as Christians. Sadly, in the distraction of trying to settle other matters first, we sometimes neglect it, personally and corporately. But, when Jesus returns, He’s not going to ask about our personal wealth (Luke 18:22), our

annual events (Amos 5:21), our property (Mark 13:1), our programs (Isaiah 58:3), or our social status (Psalm 84:10). He gave us a simple task to “go, and make disciples.” We can be assured He’ll ask about that (Matthew 28:19). Discipleship flourishes among small groups that gather for Christian formation. As people's lives change, their communities also change. Books such as Building a Church of Small Groups by Bill Donahue and Russ Robinson (Zondervan, 2001) and Small Groups with Purpose by Steve Gladen (Baker, 2011) can help us build and sustain a healthy small group ministry in our corps. Such groups promote formation and engagement in every area of the Christian lifestyle—such as worship, evangelism, learning, and service.

START SMALL When I was a young adult at the Schenectady, N.Y., Corps, I got my first taste of Christian formation in an informal Bible study group. We met in different homes, including my first scrappy apartment, and took turns leading. May God have mercy on those people whom I led at the time! Our core group of 7 or 8 peers was consistent. They loved Jesus and wanted to follow Him with their lives. God performed miracles of transformation within that group. I pray every Salvationist will have such an experience. Since then, I’ve moved to different places and been in several groups.

Isaiah Allen, father of six children and husband of one wife, contends for the development of soldiers in the Salvation Army’s USA Eastern Territory. He teaches New Testament Greek and is writing his PhD thesis on Pauline literature.

find us on facebook / estamos en facebook / 페이스북 방문 환영 www.facebook.com/saconnects

by Isaiah Allen

WHAT CAN I DO? PRAY FOR DISCIPLESHIP in your life and in your

corps, for personal and corporate courage to surpass prior levels, and that your group will embody all aspects of discipleship. DREAM OF THE DIFFERENCE discipleship can

make in your life, in your corps, and in your world. AGREE TO GATHER REGULARLY with a small

group from your corps and strive together in discipleship. VISIT SAconnects.org/LEAD2017 to sign up

for the LEAD Summit.

Each group has been unique, somewhat messy, and divinely formative. Through it all, positive accountability has helped to keep each person focused on what is most important, to raise godly families, to exercise integrity in our work, to maintain purity, and to seek God. These groups have played a direct role in my personal formation. The godly examples we provide for each other, the discoveries we make together, and the miracles that happen as we pray and act together in the wider world, demonstrate the power of the living God. The Eastern Territory’s Mission and Culture Department is excited to be presenting the Small Group Laboratory at the LEAD Summit 2017. These events will be held Saturday, July 29, through Saturday, August 5, at the University of New England in Biddeford, Maine, in conjunction with the Old Orchard Beach Camp Meetings. Soldiers will be equipped, encouraged, and inspired to serve in local corps. If you are interested in attending, go to SAconnects.org/LEAD2017.

2017 JULY/AUGUST

ON file

Turning Prayer into Before Marcus Cooper attended church at the Philadelphia Kroc Center, his only chapel was the backseat of his car. “I spoke to God so many times in my old car,” said Cooper. “That was where I read my daily Scripture. Sometimes at night in there, I would pray myself to sleep, wake up the next day, and finish praying where I had left off.” Three years ago, Cooper was a journalism student at Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania. In those days and after class, he stayed for the night on campus with friends. In 2013, Cooper graduated from the university and returned to his home in Philadelphia. Although a college grad living with his or her parents is common in today’s economy, Cooper soon learned that his values and mindset clashed with those of his mom. “My mother and I had different ways of looking at life. We were both trying to prove our points to each other. When two egos collide, it never turns out well. One day, she just kicked me out of the house.”

“

Without a job or access to his friends in Shippensburg and with local family members unwilling to take him in, Cooper soon began sleeping in the backseat of his car. “Every morning, the first question I would ask myself was Why? Why is this happening to me now? I would think, This is what happens to people when they’re old or when their job closes down or when they go bankrupt—not to a college graduate in his 20s.”

FAMILY BONDING Woe and self–pity got him only so far, said Cooper. For his sake and for the sake of his children, he had to face reality. While attending the university, Cooper had fathered two children, Marziyah and Caseean. They had different mothers. He and Marziyah, the older child, shared many homeless nights because her mother struggled with problems of her own. On occasion, Cooper stayed with Marziyah at family shelters. But when Marziyah stayed with her mother, the shelters denied access to Cooper.

Cooper began spending more time at The Salvation Army Ray & Joan Kroc Corps and Community Center in Philadelphia. At the Kroc Center, he exercised, showered, and used the computers to search for jobs. He eventually brought his children with him. Cooper, Marziyah, and Caseean looked forward to participating in the center’s many activities. “Those kids’ programs served a bigger purpose for my family,” says Cooper. “When we were going down the waterslide, taking self–defense classes, or playing basketball, Marziyah and Caseean didn’t have to see what I was going through. The struggle was mine, not theirs. At the Kroc, we weren’t a family living out of a car. We were a father and his two children, bonding and having fun.”

ANSWERING A PRAYER The Kroc Center Chapel was as valuable to him as any other resource the Army offered, said Cooper. He walked into the chapel when its doors opened, and

Lord, my faith and my children are the only things I have left now.

JULY/AUGUST 2017

testimony

ACTION by Hugo Bravo

stayed as late as he was allowed. “Lord, my faith and my children are the only things I have left now,” he would pray. “Please, make life better for the three of us.” Cooper’s prayers were answered through the kindness of the friends he made at the Kroc Center’s gym. “They knew I loved exercising, trying to eat right, and helping others focus on their health.” “One of the employees said to me, ‘Do you want to host fitness programs? You’re in good shape, for a homeless guy.’” Although Cooper laughed, the offer was a serious one. Though it was only a volunteer position, he accepted. When the Kroc Center provided healthy snacks to the programs, such as sandwiches and fruit, Cooper was allowed to take home a portion to his family. Through the Kroc Center and the Kind Family Ministry Program, Cooper found shelters that would take him in with or without his children. He also obtained work as a longshoreman at the docks in Philadelphia. The hours were limited, so Cooper took a second

job as an Uber driver. Though his own car would not pass the qualifications, he was debt–free and his credit was good. He traded in his old car to help him purchase a better one. He also maintained both jobs. In Cooper’s past, spending long hours inside his car had been a sign of misfortune. Now, it was a sign of success, and the promise of a better future for his family.

cross. In fact, I thank Him for every cross I’ve carried. They’ve made me the man I am today.” Cooper is also grateful to the Philadelphia Kroc Center for being there for him and for his children. He has recommended its services to people in similar situations. He knows God helped him when he took the initiative to turn his prayers into action. Today, Cooper is repairing family relationships, working with a bank to purchase a home after two years of steady employment, and is attending the Kroc Center regularly. “Faith without hard work is not faith, but a cliché,” says Cooper. “It’s fine to be angry, to feel broken, and even to cry. But don’t ever give up. Make that last cry your first step to keep on going. God will never abandon you, but you need to push yourself until the moment you hear Him answer your prayer.”

CARRYING A CROSS “When my family didn’t want to hear from me, and when the mothers of my children did not want me in their lives, all I had was my confidence that God would see me through,” says Cooper. “He had done it for His Son Jesus Christ, and He would do it for any of His children. “At my lowest point, I thought to myself, Is this how Jesus felt when He carried the cross to His death, abandoned by His friends and disciples? It’s our faith that gets us through the most difficult times, when we each carry our

”

Please, make life better for the three of us. find us on facebook / estamos en facebook / 페이스북 방문 환영 www.facebook.com/saconnects

— Marcus Cooper

2017 JULY/AUGUST

ON file

To Belong

by Chris Stoker

An introduction to The Daily Office

To rise and sing with a congregation is powerful. There’s something deep and integral to such worship in community, where the words draw me closer to people than do the pews. There’s something about belonging to that act, about joining my voice with the vast many. I know in those times I am part of something bigger than myself, something that reminds me of that “great cloud of witnesses” or of the Levitical choirs or the elders in John’s vision. In many of our Spiritual Life Development retreats, we will often practice reading Scripture as a group. Rather than in an organized and directed way, we instead encourage everyone to stand and read the same passage—at the same time. We believe that if we read at our own pace, read from our life, and read from our experiences, God will speak to us. He will also speak, through our voices, to people around us. The passage resonates through the room and through the lives of a diverse people. Don’t let my secret out, but when we do this, I usually keep quiet. I know, it’s a terrible example when I’m asking for group participation, but I can’t help it. I

JULY/AUGUST 2017

stand in the room and listen to the voices of people as they encounter Scripture. It’s an incredible experience. I hear individual voices grow louder when the Scripture resonates with him or her. A voice will become softer when the words offer a specific challenge. It’s remarkable in every way and I can hear God speaking, not just through, but also to them. There’s a rich history in the Bible regarding corporate worship. Aside from the regular rhythms of synagogue time, there are many profound moments where community worship takes place. A few that have recently come to mind—when the Israelites gathered at Mt. Sinai in Exodus 19, when Ezra read Scripture to the remnant in Nehemiah 8, and many other such assemblies throughout the book of Acts. There’s something about community. There’s something about the bigger picture. There’s something about belonging that lives at the heart of who God made us to be. There’s a spiritual discipline—a personal devotional experience—that integrates some of the most profound community worship experiences, such

as singing together or praying corporately or reading Scripture. It’s called “The Daily Office,” or “Fixed Hours of Prayer,” and is the practice of interrupting the day every three to four hours to observe a time of sacred prayer. During these times, participants hear or read the same Scriptures. For example, although we may be scattered across a beach, or live across our territory, we nonetheless enter into the same prayers and the same Scripture readings. Our ears are attuned—separated and yet still together—to the same words and ideas, to the same opportunities to encounter God. If we speak out, our voices rise together to the Lord, regardless of the distance between us. We offer up the same prayer, beginning at sunrise, or at 9 a.m., and with a cup of coffee. We’ve provided you, the participant, with three short prayer times—morning, mid–day, and vespers. When and where you pray is up to you. Your consistency and rhythm will draw you into the experience. You may let the right time come to you. Through these divine

wholly living

Pray with Us

appointments, you will likely experience spontaneous blessings you didn’t know you had coming. You may participate entirely on your own, or find ways to share in the prayers. For this year’s Old Orchard Beach (OOB) prayer experience, Spiritual Life Development has created “Pray with Us,” as an invitation to experience the “Daily Office” or “Fixed Hours of Prayer.” You can also participate from home. We’ve provided materials in English and in Spanish in an audio format. Members and friends of our department will lead you through the prayer exercises. You can find them through the OOB app, or on www.saconnects.org. We’ve also provided a downloadable PDF in both languages. If you’re joining us at OOB, there will be a limited number of printed copies available during the Saturday evening program at the Seaside Pavilion. It’s our sincere desire that you will enter into this sacred and ancient practice with a sense of availability. It is also our prayer that God will meet you at the “office” in profound ways.

The earliest references to specific daily acts of worship are found in Exodus 29, where sacrifices are prescribed in the morning and at twilight. References to prescribed prayers or other specific worship experiences are found in Samuel, Nehemiah, Isaiah, Daniel, and in the Psalms. Prayers, such as “the Shema” from Deuteronomy 6, were taught to be prayed constantly and throughout the day. Imagine—an entire community whispering the words together, “Hear, O Israel, the Lord your God, the Lord your God is one….” throughout the day. In the New Testament, daily prayer times adhered to the Roman “business” day. Prayer breaks were typically at 9 a.m., 12 p.m., and 3 p.m. Most people used those breaks for lunch and time off from work, but many Jews and eventually the early Christians would use the time to pray. The gospel writers marked the hours as they related the events of Jesus’ crucifixion. The “Hours” have a deep and ancient presence in the legacy of our faith. References to the “Hours” are found in Acts 3, 4, and 10. A first–century document known as the Didache (Greek for “teaching”) opens with the line, “Teaching of the Lord to the Gentiles by the Twelve Apostles.” It outlines Christian ethics, the sacraments, and Church organization. It also encourages all Christians to pray the Lord’s Prayer at three fixed times of day. The idea of praying together at the same time across a vast distance is ancient. It has been a means by which entire communities have historically made themselves available to God and to the influence of the Spirit. Through The Daily Office, prescribed words are a gift to us; a gift throughout history from holy and available people; a gift that has survived the worst tragedies of our sin–ridden humanity; a gift passed down from searching soul to searching soul; a gift through which God has blessed a temporary world with a touch of eternity. DAYS We’re looking forward to sharing this experience from God with you. From the depth of our hearts, we thank you for taking time to ExperiencIng the Hours “Pray with Us.” wherever you are

find us on facebook / estamos en facebook / 페이스북 방문 환영 www.facebook.com/saconnects

Look for Pray with Us at the Old Orchard Beach Camp Meetings 2017 or download your copy at www.saconnects.org.

2017 JULY/AUGUST

The General’s REMIX

To view an inspiring video interpretation, go to www.salvationfactory.org and click

The Whole World Mobilizing Sunday Resource Package. A summary of the message General André Cox delivered at Old Orchard Beach 2016 on The Whole World Mobilizing.

WE NEED TO BE A

MOBILIZED ARMY.

THE GOSPEL MESSAGE IS THE DYNAMITE OF GOD—AN

EXPLOSION. IN THIS WORLD. What a mighty weapon

This world needs it now more than ever.

What a privilege to know we are called by God to be His witnesses in this generation. When we look at the state of the world today, many of us tremble. And yet, the power of God is unchanged. The message of the Gospel is unchanged. The power of the Holy Spirit is not lessened in this generation. So what’s holding us back from standing up and taking this world for Jesus? A citadel is a place of refuge for a defeated army. An army that hides in citadels because it feels defeated by the spirit of the world is useless to the world. If we are not a mobilized army, what’s the point of dressing up like play soldiers? What is the point of a salvation army that is always confined to barracks, in the comfort of our halls, enjoying our music, feeling comfortable and warm when actually, outside there is a world going to hell? We are not a people called to live in defeat. We are not a people who can afford to sit back and relax in this generation. We need to be a mobilized army and fulfill the potential that God sees in us. God is calling us to go out into the communities where we are placed to be shining lights, to be salt and light in the world. We are a people who are called to experience the power of God working in our lives. We need an outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

WE NEED TO SEE

SPIRITUAL REVIVAL.

So what’s holding us back from standing up and taking this world for Jesus?

Caleb Louden

mission specialist, salvation army atlanta temple corps.

connecting others to the spiritual resources of christianity. asbury seminary m.div. and th.m. [biblical studies] graduate. go to asbury.to/voices to see more of caleb’s story.

Are you CALLED to join God in His mission? Kentucky

•

Orlando

•

Memphis

•

Online

Download your FREE ebook Called, from Asbury Seminary. Visit: asbury.to/SC

When I Heard About Gift Annuities, I Thought....

“

This is a good way to provide income and tax benefits for myself and help The Salvation Army efficiently and effectively provide services to the less fortunate in our communities.

“

- Frederick H. Dickel, Salvation Army Donor

We Couldn’t Agree With You More, Frederick. The Salvation Army is excited to have a giving opportunity that furthers our mission AND benefits our dedicated and generous donor friends and members. Our work could not reach all those who need our ministry and services if it weren’t for “the army” of support we have.

Our Gift Annuity can provide:

4 Fixed Payments for Life

4 Possible Income Tax Charitable Deduction

4 Possible Tax Free Income

4 Peace of Mind & Accomplishment

CALL (845) 620-7297 and find out the rate for your age.

It is an honor to have the trust of Salvation Army Gift Annuity donors, like Frederick, and it gives us great satisfaction to know they are pleased with the way this gift opportunity meets their needs for income and for putting their money where their values will be reinforced for generations in the future. Rate examples: At age 75 the payment rate is 5.8% and at age 85 the rate is 7.8%

For further information, please contact: The Salvation Army, Department of Planned Giving 440 West Nyack Road, West Nyack, NY 10994 (845) 620-7297

17PG5SA107