New Salvation Army leaders loving this community

By Mark Ribble

LEAMINGTON — Majors Ron and Judi Wickens have just settled in to their new location at Salvation Army Leamington and they want the community to know that they love what they see.

“This is a great community,” said Ron. “We’ve been able to explore a little bit and have met some great people.”

Originally from London, Ontario, the Wickens’ have been stationed in communities such as Fenlon Falls, Erin Mills and Burlington, a post which they held for the last seven years.

“A seven-year post is unique,” said Judi. “It’s usually no more than five.”

They arrived in mid-August after the retirement and departure of their predecessors, Captain Phoungern and Oudaovanh Sombounkanh.

Once the COVID restrictions are lifted, the pair plans to move their food bank to a more shopping-like experience, where those in need come in and take what they need as opposed to picking up a pre-packed box.

Majors Ron and Judi Wickens at the Salvation Army in Leamington.

Sun photo

“We find that people get a lot of stuff they won’t use,” said Judi. “We want them to have what they need.”

They plan on having a Christmas room set up so that families can come in and choose from a variety of toys separated by age group and gender.

As far the Salvation Army Church is concerned, the Wickens’ want to introduce what is known as ‘Messy Church’, which is an interdenominational service which incorporates informal lessons with a family meal.

“Families can come to an informal setting and enjoy a meal, play games and learn about the gospel,” added Judi. Messy Church is usually held on a weeknight.

Regular Sunday services will resume onThanksgiving Sunday, with proper protocols in place. Worship services start at 10:30 am and you have to pre-register by calling 519-326-4901 and leaving a voicemail.

The upcoming Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign will get underway on November 16 and the Wickens’ are hoping for a good kettle season, despite the pandemic.

"We will have safety standards in place,” said Ron.

The money from the annual kettle campaign completely funds their family service programs. This year, they are working on getting tip-tap machines, which will allow donors to use debit cards to make a donation at the kettles.

As they settle in to their new surroundings, they’ve made visits to Point Pelee and have really enjoyed bike rides throughout the area. Ron is a hockey goaltender looking for a place to play as well, so anyone looking for a goalie should contact him.

“He won’t toot his own horn,” said Judi, “but he’s a top level goalie.”