WHO WE ARE HISTORY
Walk b
the water
Interview by WARREN L. MAYE
On the eve of their retirement, Commissioners William A. and G. Lorraine Bamford reflect on their ministry as leaders of The Salvation Army USA Eastern Territory and share their hope for the future. What would you say are your highlights? WB Two highlights for me have been the past two commissioning events, starting in 2022. We were coming off COVID. The spiri tual electricity started Friday night with [Christian singer–songwriter] Danny Gokey and the connectivity that he had with our attendees. Then in 2023, it was great seeing our territory together again. Our people want to worship and see God’s Kingdom together. LB A highlight for me came in seeing Salvationists, employees, and volun teers led by visionary officers during the COVID–19 pandemic. The Army saw and met those needs. It was tiring and drain ing, but in conversation with many officers, I learned it was also a blessing.
WB Many people who we served during that time have now come to know the Lord. Some became soldiers because of the service we did. They saw how officers and soldiers cared for their community. Fellowship also continues to be a bright spot. We’re thinking outside the box, doing the same mission but in a different way.
What scenario seemed the most challenging? LB Aside from COVID, I’d say it was addressing the growing divisiveness in our society. There’s always been divisiveness, but now it’s more visible, more vocal. The evidence of hatred and resentment in our society is clearer, more palpable. The reality that this exists is heart–wrenching.
Has it influenced the way you’ve perceived ministry? WB We’ve tried to look at every situation, and every individual, with open eyes and open hearts. We are willing to embrace the whosoever. But it is a weighty subject. As we continue to survey this territory, which is extremely diverse, we see that challenge as a blessing and there’s more to be done. We need to make sure that people under stand that everyone is created in God’s image, and we are all to be treated the same. Respect is the big thing. LB When you say you’re going to listen to everybody, you must listen. Doing so has led us to form “Express Councils” just within the past two years. They are for both soldiers
