Caring Vol. 18, No. 1 (Spring 2012)

Contents GENERATIONS • SPRING 2012 • VOL. 18 NO. 01

03 04 05 06

My Corner

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Interview_ KYLiE MORGAN

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Breakthrough

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IMAGE contest winner

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facing faith

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Data overload

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railton place

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NSSDMC 2012

INTERACT PERSPECTIVE NEWS BITES_ World culture faith work

ideas_ inspiration initiative first person

Modern day warriorS

DisaSter Strikes twice A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME review resources

A multigenerational mission

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Cover and Contents photos

by Tim Schaal (timschaalphotography.com)

THE HOLISTIC MINISTRY OF THE SALVATION ARMY Spring 2012, vol. 18 no. 01 ISSN 2164-5922

Caring is published quarterly by The Salvation Army and seeks to: Reclaim ‘acts of mercy’ as imperatives to holiness.

Bring the Army’s ministries of evangelistic and social outreach into one holistic ministry.

Describe exemplary programs seeking to integrate the goals of the Army’s holistic ministries.

Foster innovation and the development of creative approaches to ministry.

Edify, enlighten, enrich and stimulate discussion among Salvationists involved in caring ministries.

Provide a forum for examination of critical social issues within the Army.

Report on important and relevant research in areas of holistic ministry.

Review critical contributions of scholars and writers within relevant fields of ministry.

Examine The Salvation Army as an organization in respect to its history, purpose, mission and future.

STAFF

Editor in Chief/Robert Docter, Ph.D. bob.docter@usw.salvationarmy.org Managing Editor/Christin Davis christin.davis@usw.salvationarmy.org Assistant Editor/Erica Andrews erica.andrews@usw.salvationarmy.org Contributing Editor/Karen Gleason karen.gleason@usw.salvationarmy.org Associate Editor/Buffy Lincoln buffy.lincoln@usw.salvationarmy.org Circulation/Arlene DeJesus arlene.dejesus@usw.salvationarmy.org

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Major Betty Israel/USA National Headquarters Major Geoffrey Allan/USA Central Territory Major Florence Townsend/USA Eastern Territory Kevin Tomson-Hooper/USA Southern Territory Major Lawrence Shiroma/USA Western Territory

LAYOUT & DESIGN

Art Director/Kevin Dobruck kevin.dobruck@usw.salvationarmy.org Graphic Designer/Adriana Rivera adriana.rivera@usw.salvationarmy.org

ADVERTISING

Inquire to 562/491-8723 or caring@usw.salvationarmy.org.

CIRCULATION

Send address changes to Caring, P.O. Box 22646, Long Beach, CA 90802 or caring@usw.salvationarmy.org.

SALVATION ARMY USA WESTERN TERRITORIAL HEADQUARTERS Territorial Commander/Commissioner James Knaggs Chief Secretary/Colonel Dave Hudson P.O. Box 22646 180 East Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA 90802 562/491-8723 • Fax 562/491-8791 e-mail: caring@usw.salvationarmy.org Facebook: CaringMagazine Twitter: @CaringMagazine Unless otherwise indicated, all contents copyright© 2012 by New Frontier Publications, The Salvation Army, USA Western Territory, 180 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA 90802 USA. If requested, permission to reproduce is usually freely granted.

Please contact the publisher before reproducing.

Generations

By Robert Docter

GOT ANY IDEA WHO you really are or how you got to be the way you are?

What drives you? What motivates you? What limits you?

Why? A number of factors impact how you develop and view your self and the world around you. Some of these factors are cultural, some relate to parental skills and some relate to timing. You were born at a particular time and a particular place. You did not choose this environment, and you can’t escape it. Without your awareness some events or occurrences wash over you like the wind—sometime in bursts and sometime in breezes— and “life” occurs. You develop strong feelings and choose models to emulate. The same influencing wind blows across the entire nation. It is noticed immediately by some and ignored by others. Some feel refreshed within it, others seek to avoid it. People with close birth years move together through the same time period and are impacted by the same headlines, inventions, tragedies, and experiences.

They relate to the same media opportunities, gain much the same points of view, make similar choices, and confuse their parents in much the same way.

We label such a grouping a “generation.”

Kuppleschmidt defined “generation” as “an identifiable group or cohort that share birth years, age, location and significant life events at critical developmental stages.” He suggests that the group shares historical or social life experiences over the course of their lives and that these experiences tend to distinguish them from other generations. Other writers

have named these generations, have identified the years of their ascendency and have noted a number of common characteristics, wants, desires, and choices.

Born in the late 1920s alongside my twin brother, my generation is called Traditionalist, or sometimes, the Silent Generation. I prefer Tom Brokaw’s label—“the greatest generation.”

This generation spanned the years of 19291946 and has experienced some “significant life events.” Suddenly the ‘20s stopped roaring, the stock market crashed, the country and most of its citizens plummeted into a “great depression.”

Germany elected a crazy man to lead them who turned into a “great dictator” and started WW2.

We elected Franklin Roosevelt president. He guided the country from 1932-1945 when he died in office. We fought two wars, sweated through Viet Nam, struggled to always play fair, wrestled with new technology including nuclear fission, maintained decent health and are living longer.

Some survey data suggest stereotypical characteristics of each generation. Supposedly, Traditionalists are hardworking, loyal, traditional (which fits me) and submissive and tech challenged (which don’t fit me at all).

Most are now retired.

The babies of WW2 veterans, called Baby Boomers, were born between 1946-1964. The current executives of the nation’s corporations, political leaders and major decision makers are boomers. One author suggested that they could have been called “The Entitlement Generation;” they expected the best from life and then met Viet Nam, a war surrounded by question marks that involved Americans from 1961-1973.

Other events shaping this generation stem from assassinations of two Kennedys and Martin Luther King; civil Robert rights riots; Watergate; the sexual Docter, revolution; disappointments in Ph. D., is the political, religious and business editor in chief leaders; and the pressure of being of New Frontier sandwiched between an aging Publications. prior generation and their own children.

They appear to be motivated by exciting projects, winning, working, competition, confrontation and changing the world.

Members of the “X” generation were born between 1965-1980.

Almost two-thirds of them attended college and are better educated than other generations. They are in their thirties and forties today. Both of their parents have worked and they are independent, individualistic, resorceful and self-sufficient. Their commitments are less secure; they tend to be tolerant of others and ambitious and they want a “balanced” life between work and play.

Generation “Y”—also called The Millenials—were born between 1981-1995 and are now somewhere between 18-30. Their attitudes toward work seem to be changing with the recent recession as developing a work ethic seems much more attractive. They love to be entertained and demand mobility in their media. A large percentage played team sports, which transfers to teamwork elsewhere. Family is important, yet parenting seems more preferable than marriage for many.

This generation is highly optimistic and does not like delaying gratification. They have high respect for diversity, are not attracted to membership, seem socially conscious, have a strong sense of community, and “speak their minds and dress as they please.”

As you work to build your corps or group, please remember this: People develop.

They do so at different rates.

Stereotypical characteristics do not fit everyone.

Read on—you’ll find some good ideas about how to relate to different generations. w

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“Thank you for the thought provoking and moving articles.”

—Bob Schmig “Great job on the article that you did on the Louisville, Ky., vets.... KUDOS TO YOU ALL!!!”

—Rev. George William Whitfield “I’m really excited for what you’re doing and to see you steering The Salvation Army in the direction that you are. It’s such a wonderful organization and having young, fresh visionaries like you are vital to its future. You covered so many

great stories in this issue, I’ve read almost every one already and I’ve felt a stirring in my heart from the time spent in its pages. It makes me want to get out there and do something significant in this world! So thanks again for doing what you’re doing.”

—Cpl. Jason M. Hale

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Phone: 562-491-8723 Email: caring@usw. salvationarmy.org Facebook: visit our “store” tab

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IN YOUR WORDS

BEST PROGRAM WEBSITE I’ll Fight Day—illfightday.com

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Follow us @CaringMagazine.

MOST INTERACTIVE WEBSITE Online Red Kettle—onlineredkettle.org Find the full list of award recipients at saynetwork.com/sayconnect2/ archives/576.

Seizing opportunity

By Christin Davis

NO CULTURE IS STATIC. Yet in the past century, society has arguably seen more cultural change than at any other point in history.

It has witnessed the invention of mass transportation, rising urbanization, emergence of mass production and subsequent mass consumption, changing roles for women, and the development of mass communication and digital technologies.

The world has accelerated.

Exiled from Judah, Daniel left a safe and predictable environment and arrived in Babylon, a diverse and accelerated society. He lived through a period of great change for the Hebrew people, but remained faithful. Even when the Babylonians encouraged the newcomers to serve false gods, Daniel remained firm in his convictions and found a way to be influential.

He was active in the courts and councils of some of the greatest monarchs: Nebuchadnezzar, Cyrus, Darius.

Through Daniel we are assured of God’s control.

“He changes times and seasons, deposes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with him” (Daniel 2:21-22 NRSV).

Do you ever feel, like Daniel, the tension between faith and the complexities of the world? Is there a disparity between what we expect and what exists?

In this issue, “Generations,” Caring explores a number of the generational differences, trends and tactics pertinent to The Salvation Christin Davis is the Army and our surrounding society, managing from a home for aged-out foster editor of youth, to the changing presentation New Frontier of Christ in the 21st century, to a bus Publications.

Do you ever feel, like Daniel, the tension between faith and the complexities of the world? Is there a disparity between what we expect and what exists?

outfitted with safe Internet access, to the Army’s use of data in decision-making, to an “Emerging Trends” course for cadets at the training college in the West.

“The great generation divide has always existed, but it doesn’t need to separate us,” writes Major Tim Foley, the West’s training principal, on p. 18. “Ministry becomes more effective if you truly understand the generational world you live in and learn to appreciate the differences and embrace them.”

In our every effort, like Daniel, we recognize that God has complete control and comprehension over time and nations. We'll continue seizing opportunity to be influential today. w

Connect with Caring

twitter @CaringMagazine facebook.com/CaringMagazine email: caring@usw.salvationarmy.org

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will be the first year in history that women in Saudi Arabia will not need a male guardian’s approval to run or vote in the municipal elections.

Saving the rainforest Underneath Ecuador’s Yasuni National Park lies 846 million barrels of oil valued at $7.2 billion.

In 2007, Rafael Correa, president of Ecuador said that oil would stay in the ground if the rest of the world could provide Ecuador with half that sum

by Dec. 30, 2011. A suite of business people, national governments, and celebrities from Al Gore to Leonardo DiCaprio donated $116 million, The Guardian reported. That’s enough to keep 722 square miles of the park’s most valuable rainforest free from oil drilling.

General Linda Bond is meeting Salvationists around the world, having visited the Finland and Estonia; France and Belgium; Switzerland, Austria and Hungary; Sweden and Latvia territories in December 2011 alone.

Dying perfume Researchers say ecological pressures in Ethiopia are killing the trees that produce the frankincense perfume.

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1,850 people received food, clothes, shelter and medicine from The Salvation Army following flooding in Central America in late 2011.

The Army also initiated flood response in Indonesia and the Philippines, and earthquake response in New Zealand.

Peace talks In what could be a step toward formal, substantive peace talks to end more than a decade of war, the Afghan Taliban reached a preliminary deal with the Gulf state of Qatar to open a liaison office there, with the aim of holding talks with the U.S.

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Decline in child solicitations A new report from the Crimes Against Children Research Center (CCRC) found a decline in 2010 of both unwanted sexual solicitations and unwanted exposure to pornography online, compared to studies conducted in 2005 and 2000.

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percent of moms are friends with their children, according to a study from The Parenting Group.

Record low marriage The Pew Research Center’s new analysis of U.S. Census data indicates that the national marriage rate is at a record low (51 percent) and that the median age of first marriage has never been higher for brides (26.5 years) and grooms (28.7 years).

Curing cancer Angela Zhang, a 17-year-old from Cupertino, Calif., was awarded a $100,000 scholarship in the Siemens Foundation’s annual high school science competition. After two years of research, she has created a nanoparticle that can kill cancer cells without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue.

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Food for thought People who ate a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D—which are commonly found in fish and vegetables—were less likely to have their brains shrink and were more likely to score higher on the memory and thinking tests, researchers reported in the December 2011 issue of Neurology.

Caffeinated caring At Corner Perk, a small locally owned coffee shop in South Carolina, more and more customers have been leaving money to pay for others’ food and drink. The shop’s owner, Josh Cooke, said some people don’t even buy anything when they come in; they just stop to donate and head right back out.

Live happy People who love their country for its laws and institutions, rather than its lineage, are happier, according to a new global study published in Psychological Science.

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Bringing together faiths In Omaha, Neb., Tri-Faith Initiative kicked off a multimillion-dollar effort to bring the Christian, Jewish and Muslim faiths together by building a single 35-acre campus. The aim is to foster greater interfaith relations between the three Abrahamic religions.

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of the world’s population (2.2 billion people) is Christian, according to the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life.

Tebowing In a New York high school, “Tebowing”—kneeling with a bowed head mimicking Denver Bronco Tim Tebow’s signature move—led to suspension. The school said twin brothers Tyler and Connor Carroll were causing a safety hazard.

Christian attacks In Nigeria, the sect known as Boko Haram has killed at least 52 people after pledging to target Christians living in the multiethnic nation’s Muslim north. The sect has been blamed for months of widespread bloodshed in Nigeria, with churches and police stations among the targets.

Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan in a speech to the nation said, “I urge all Nigerians to eschew bitterness and acrimony and live together in harmony and peace.

Wherever there is any threat to public peace, our security agencies will enforce the law, without fear or favor.”

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$ 390 million a year is spent by religious g ro u p s t o i n f l u e n c e U . S . domestic and foreign policy, according to a report by the Pew Research Center’s Forum on Religion and Public Life.

The Supreme Court made a rare and resounding unanimous decision that religious groups can hire and fire without having to worry too much about backlash from bias or antidiscrimination laws.

In a letter to Congress, Catholic bishops said Congress has a “moral obligation” to help the unemployed.

The chief spokesman on domestic issues is framing it as a “right to life” issue.

Bible turns 400 National Geographic notes the 400-year anniversary of the King James Version of the Bible. “First printed 400 years ago, it molded the English language, buttressed the ‘powers that be’ and yet enshrined a gospel of individual freedom. No other book has given more to the English-speaking world.”

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Dance the kettle Eastern Territory Cadets David Kelly and Christopher Hinzman created a buzz during the annual Red Kettle Campaign when they danced next to the kettle outside New York City’s Penn Station. They were so popular, the pair even landed Watch the New an appearance on NBC’s York Post’s report: http:// “Today Show” with Kayoutu.be/thie Lee Gifford and AAC46dGSEY. Hoda Kotb.

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Rocking out Thousands attended The Salvation Army’s 2nd annual Rock the Red Kettle Concert in Los Angeles. The show included performances

by Honor Society, Colbie Caillat, Cody Simpson, Greyson Chance, Drake Bell and Hanson.

Kettle controversy “Nothing can be further from the truth,” Lt. Col. Ralph Bukiewicz, divisional commander of The Salvation Army Metropolitan Division, told msnbc.com following accusations by gay-rights groups that the Army services provided by kettle donations are discriminatory.

“In our policies, in our practices, in our programs and in our eligibility for any service within The Salvation Army, there is not a request for any details concerning sexual orientation,” Bukiewicz said.

The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle campaign raised $147.6 million in 2011, up nearly 4 percent from 2010 and 6 percent from 2009.

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volunteers in Oklahoma City assembled a record 658 bikes for local children at Christmas with the “Bucks for Bikes” program.

Sixty hours of continuous hand bell ringing set the new record. Darrell Tureskis (Springfield, Ill.), Caleb Stokes and Leilan McNally (Indianapolis, In.) outlasted 21 competitors across the nation.

Caring kitchen The Walmart Foundation awarded The Salvation Army Omaha North Corps a $35,000 grant to helps support its Kare Kitchen that provides free lunch and will now begin to offer healthy cooking classes for children and families.

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Standing up to bullying GIVING A VOICE TO THOSE WHO DON’T HAVE ONE

By Erica Andrews

KYLIE MORGAN

is not your typical 16-year-old. The bright and energetic Oklahoma native made the CMA (Country Music Association) list of “Who New To Watch” and recently garnered attention for her tribute song to Phoebe Prince, who died as a result of being bullied. Prince, an Irish immigrant, hanged herself in 2010 after three months of continuous torment by classmates via text messages and Facebook.

Morgan’s tribute song to her, “Phoebe,” received 76,000 hits in just three days. Realizing her talent and compassion, Pacer’s National Bullying Prevention Center asked Morgan to be an advocate for its program and speak at local schools about the perils of bullying.

With 160,000 students missing school each day in the U.S. to avoid being bullied, the issue is quickly becoming an epidemic. Caring interviewed Morgan to find out more about how she’s helping to prevent bullying through her music.

You’re currently on tour, going to school and advocating for bullying prevention. That seems like a quite a bit.

(Laughs) I definitely have a full plate, for sure!

How were you initially approached to be an advocate for the National Bullying Prevention Center?

They got in contact with my record label and found out more about what I was doing and that’s when they asked me if I wanted to be their spokesperson.

Have you ever been bullied yourself?

I think we’ve all had our own share of bullying.

Mine was in seventh grade when a girl that was much bigger than me and very intimidating made it her mission to make my life miserable. She spread rumors about me, pushed me into lockers and made fun of my clothes. I ended up telling my mom and we just hit the

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situation head on and went to my principal.

That’s the biggest thing I tell the kids to do, to tell someone if you see someone getting bullied or if you’re getting bullied.

When you saw that Phoebe Prince had committed suicide due to bullying, how did that affect you?

I went up to Nashville about a year ago to write songs for my upcoming album and I was in a writing session with two of my favorite writers, Rob Crosby and Liz Hengber, and we were just talking about current events and the subject of Phoebe came into conversation.

They wanted to know my take on it because I was 15 at the time and she was 15 when she took her own life. I wasn’t really familiar with her story, so I looked it up online and once we found out all the things she had to go through, we were instantly inspired and thought her story deserved to be told. That’s when we wrote “Phoebe.”

Were you surprised to learn how vicious people were to her?

I always knew that bullying was around, but I had no idea how serious it had become and how many people, like Phoebe, have to deal with it every single day and just try to avoid it. I was definitely surprised.

they’re hiding behind a computer and they think they won’t have to pay the consequences for it. They don’t realize once you post it, it’s there forever.

Your “Phoebe” music video received thousands of hits in just a few days. Did you expect it to do so well?

Oh my gosh, I had no idea! I just got so much good feedback and people that were saying that it’s so inspiring to have someone that cares so much about bullying and trying to do something and making a difference. I didn’t realize that just by writing a song and by caring about a cause that so many people would be touched by it. So it was a really, really great experience for me.

What does being a spokesperson for bullying prevention involve?

On pacer.org, teens and kids can find out how they can get involved and learn about the dangers of bullying. They asked me to do some events and I do interviews for them. It’s a big honor to be able to represent a company like that because they do things that really make an impact on young kids’ lives.

Do you go on tour to different schools?

For the past 18 months I’ve been traveling to schools and just talking to the kids about my bullying prevention method and trying to get a little personal with them. I feel like if they hear a story from someone around their age rather than an adult…I think they kind of listen more.

I didn’t actually realize how much of an epidemic bullying had become until I started researching it.

Yeah it’s crazy. Cyber bullying is maybe even worse than saying it to that person’s face or behind their back because they just don’t realize the dangers of it. Kids think that they can post anything on the Internet because

How does your faith play a role in the decisions you make?

I feel like God had a purpose for me and so I’m just trying to do my best to follow the path that he wants me to fall on. He put me here to touch people through song and so I’m doing my best to do that.

What kind of impression do you want to make on this new generation?

I just want to be someone that a little girl can look up to and sing all of my songs and be able to sing every word without her mom slapping her hand. That’s my biggest goal…to be a role model.

What is next in terms of the bullying prevention—are you doing more with Pacer Center?

I actually just got done speaking at the capital of Oklahoma. I made a speech and did a mini-concert for our representatives. Hopefully I’ll be able to spread my message all over Oklahoma and further.

Connect with Kylie

Erica Andrews is the assistant editor for Caring.

twitter: @kyliemorgan33 facebook.com/kyliemorganmusic website: kyliemorgan.com Photos by Kylie Leimer and Stu Ostler

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Recycles Rebuilding, one bike at a time

By Adrian Prior-Sankey

“RECYCLES” IS A MEETING PLACE and resource center for people that share an enthusiasm for all things cycling. Located at The Salvation Army Booth House for homeless men in the United Kingdom, the new program provides training and real work experience for its residents.

“Participants in the project will be restoring old bicycles, but in the process we are helping to rebuild people’s lives,” said Liz Osborne, business projects coordinator at Booth House. “They are coming to us having experienced homelessness, which could stem from a relationship breakdown, health issues or unemployment. The aim of Recycles is to provide somewhere to get work experience, acquire qualifications, learn new skills, and for a lot of participants, regain confidence.”

The spacious and attractively designed premises occupy nearly 400 square feet, laid out imaginatively to display information and the benefits of cycling. Customers can relax with a coffee, meet friends, see trainee technicians and receive repairs by qualified cycle mechanics.

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Adrian Prior-Sankey is the regional press officer for the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland.

Photos by Nick Butterfield, Adrian PriorSankey and Simon Styles Connect with Recycles email: simon.styles@ salvationarmy.org.uk

Top (l-r): The entrance to the shop; brand wall featuring a pre-1939 Raleigh bicycle; Josh, a client, at work; an interactive column detail in the shop. Above: Major Roy Irving with clients Jenna and Jim.

The program also offers Cytech training, a cycle industry instruction and accreditation scheme for mechanics and technicians. James Collier, 41, is enrolled in the training and is keen to share his skills with younger service users. “I’m a qualified motor mechanic and I just thought I needed to expand and do something else in mechanical engineering,” he said. “I was at Booth House two years ago when the Recycles initiative was being talked about.

I’m older and I wanted to give something back to the youth, offering them a bit of stability by giving them new skills.”

Residents were involved in the development of Recycles scheme from the outset and were at the heart of the planning and preparations, choosing the name and making suggestions for the design and opening events.

The Salvation Army has benefited from support offered by Wiltshire Police, Wiltshire Probation Trust and grants from the Midcounties Co-op and Bank of New York Mellon.

Major Ray Irving, territorial social services secretary, believes that the Recycles project is making a difference in the local community and in the lives of residents.

“Recycles offers a valuable service and resource, helping to rebuild the community from within,” Irving said. “This is an amazingly valuable project that we would like to replicate across the UK Territory, in similar situations. I commend the staff team for their hard work and innovative approach.” w

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On board Taking a trip on this bus can save lives

By Faye Michelson

THE WHEELS ON THIS BUS certainly go “round and round”—in fact, The Salvation Army’s Ourspace bus in Australia has traveled thousands of miles since it went on the road in mid-2011.

The Mitsubishi Fuso bus is run by youth network Oasis Hunter, which provides physical, emotional, mental and spiritual support to young people aged 12-25 years. The bus does more than just drive around New South Wales. It’s fitted with high speed Internet, 10 laptops and desks, a data projector and screen, a small fridge and air-conditioning, and provides entertainment, education and support wherever it pulls up.

“There’s an awning and a PA so that we can do music jamming, events and a commercial generator allows us to provide services just about anywhere,” said James Cameron, Ourspace outreach worker.

“We realized that over the years most services had become center-based, and that there was a great need for outreach to the ‘hot spots’ of the region where young people hang out,” Cameron said.

The team had seen a bus operated

by Oasis Hunter in Sydney and saw the

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Above: Young people work at computer stations on the Ourspace bus. Left: Outreach worker James Cameron (l) gives a supporter a tour of the bus. Right: The bus features a public address system and commercial generator.

Faye Michelson is deputy editor of the Australian Warcry Photos courtesy of Ourspace

potential for using a similar vehicle to make contact with people who couldn’t travel to the organization’s centers. They applied for state government and Oasis network funding early in 2010; it was approved that November and the bus was ordered, fitted and on the road by June 2011.

Cameron coordinates a schedule of short training courses, recruits and trains volunteers, and works with Salvation Army churches and other services to make contact with youth in the community. The bus visits each area for several weeks, providing activities from music to movies, street soccer, safe Internet access and, most of all someone to talk to.

“We want the Ourspace program to be there for the long haul, so we’ve become a familiar sight in several communities and chosen areas where we have existing networks, such as a corps, youth service or neighborhood centers,” Cameron said.

“Raymond Terrace, Karuah and Tilligerry [Australia] were identified as areas with lots of young people with not much to do, so I’ve partnered with the Port Stephens Council youth service to do outreach on a regular basis and provide training courses towards the end of the year,” he said.

Four training courses have been held so far, two each in information technology and hospitality, with all participants successfully completing the 80-hour training module. Another four courses are to be completed by the end of the year.

“The courses are funded by New South Wales Department of Education and Training, are for all ages and are to those on a benefit, Health Care Card, or who are in financial hardship,” Cameron said. “There is growing support for our bus to support community events all over the region. Many organizations view Ourspace as a vital part of their own functions and events. The feedback from participants has been fantastic—about the training, the bus and the support.”

Jason, 19, said, “It’s pretty funky, and I can get online and find out what I need to without all the drama. There were heaps of flyers and stuff to look at, and lots of other information about Facebook safety and staying safe when you’re out at night. It’s comfy, too.”

Cameron believes it is important that more isolated areas are given the same tools as inner city communities.

“I think when people are given opportunities to learn new things, they are more empowered and confident to tackle any challenges that may arise in everyday life,” he said. “For me, being able to work in so many different places and giving a hand-up to dozens of young people is exciting. Who knows what’s around the next corner?” w

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Picking up the pieces

By Gynick Clay

I WAS STRUGGLING as a single parent with unemployment as my only source of income and no one to help with childcare, but my daughter, Laneik, 4, and I were rounding the corner to a better life.

I had just finished my first year of online college classes toward an associate’s degree in business management, but a few violent gusts of wind blew our dreams away when a tornado struck our home in North Minneapolis, Minn., last spring.

We had gone into the basement to do laundry when we heard sirens. Seconds later, the lights went out and we heard crashing. My daughter and I dropped to the floor and pulled a futon over us. We lay there, scared, not knowing if the house would cave in.

Thankfully, we both emerged without a scratch on our bodies, but our lives suffered massive injuries. Suddenly, we were homeless and had no transportation; the house and car were wrecked by the storm.

For the next few weeks, we slept in two hotels, a shelter and friends’ houses. By day, I scrambled from one agency to the next trying to find assistance. We were sleeping in different places every night and standing in long lines looking for help. Life became so stressful that I sent my daughter to Illinois to live with my sister.

Then I met The Salvation Army in Minneapolis.

The Salvation Army helped me with car repairs and in the meantime gave me bus cards to search for housing. When I finally found an apartment, the Army paid the damage deposit and two months rent

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and took me shopping at Slumberland. I really appreciated being able to get new furniture and replacing some of the items that we lost in the tornado. It gave me peace of mind to have support and help.

Currently, I am in the process of getting back to work and regaining structure in our lives. I’m trying to catch up on other expenses that were put aside in survival mode. It’s been a long process, but it definitely beats not knowing where we’re going to sleep at night.

I know that time heals everything. Knowing I have help and support from The Salvation Army helps me push even harder, with a special thanks to Tene Campbell, who has really gone over and beyond for my family. The Salvation Army has truly been great to us. w

Gynick Clay is a recipient of services from The Salvation Army in Minneapolis.

Photos by Craig Dirkes

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A multi-generational mission Studying shifts in culture that affect ministry

By Tim Foley

“Are we just being fuddy duddies?” my friend asked me on the phone. The issue was what to do with a younger officer that was texting during a ministry opportunity. I commented that common courtesy and proper etiquette still need to be addressed regardless of the generation; there is a time and place for a phone or tablet just as there is a time to be present and engage in what’s right before you.

During my tenure here at the Western Territory College for Officer Training, I have developed a course called “Emerging Trends.” It is a unique course, designed to focus and study present shifts in culture that will affect future ministries of Salvationists. We explore the effects of post modernity, social networking, changes in style of worship, social action issues and global mission matters.

When I started the class in the fall of 2006, I required each student to begin a blog on xanga.com. Blogging was a new medium then, but now it’s a common experience. Today, Xanga is so yesterday. Almost everyone I know now has a Facebook page— some use it well and some

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abuse it. We have a lecture based on the proper use of social networks.

Technology has affected every living generation. The incredible advancements make our lives faster and better, but have also created new challenges. Younger generations are digital natives and working their way around the medium comes easy. The use of technology is never questioned. Netiquette has to be developed, taught and implemented, so that rifts between the generations can be quelled over this matter.

One of the topics we explore in Emerging Trends is this issue of differences between the generations.

Currently, there are five living generations alive on the planet: The Builder Generation (born up to 1945), Boomer Generation (1946-

...winning the world for Christ must transcend any generational separation.

65), Buster Generation (1965-85), Generation Y (1985-2000), and Generation Z (2000-current). Distinct differences exist between the generations, and can often be narrowed down to an understanding of values that are developed by experience, time and exposure.

Take the Builder Generation for instance. This age group firmly believes in God and country, and rightly so. Men and women of this generation laid their lives down for the freedom we enjoy today. Former NBC news anchor, Tom Brokaw, said it is “the greatest generation.” Succeeding generations owe a debt of gratitude to the self-sacrifice these individuals gave as a collective whole. I have heard the stories over and over from veterans who were grateful The Salvation Army was there on the docks to see them off with free doughnuts and coffee. We benefit today from their generosity. The overall motto for this generation: “Make do or do without.” This makes sense because these individuals experienced two world wars, were born during the Great Depression and learned how to make due with the minimum.

The Boomer Generation was known for its love of blue jeans and rock and roll.

Products of their “Builder” parents, this generation is now entering retirement. As they grew up, they were all about breaking down stereotypes and this continues to occur as they grow older. Living longer, working longer, playing harder, the boomers are set to enjoy the golden years.

The Buster Generation has been affected by numerous shifts in society and technological advancements. This is the generation where the term “latch key kids” was coined. Many came from broken homes. Unfortunately, sometimes labeled as Generation X, this is truly a creative Major Tim Foley is the training principal at the Crestmont College for Officer Training in the USA Western Territory.

and thoughtful generation. They are spiritual seekers, want rules from the right authorities, embrace change and have learned to live with it.

Generation Y, known as Gen Me, has been raised with hectic schedules, given many choices and many opportunities. They are also comfortable with diversity and technology. They are negatively labeled as a generation that loves itself too much. This will be a generation that will be able to talk about the day the video stores died and the “cloud” grew.

Generation Z is growing and becoming in our midst. It is a generation of active consumers, who greatly influence their parents’ spending habits. They are increasingly becoming tech savvy at a young age and are highly connected with cell phones and other gadgets.

The great generation divide has always existed, but it doesn’t need to separate us. It’s imperative for those involved in ministry of the gospel to understand the variety of needs and differences that do indeed exist between.

Ministry becomes more effective if you truly understand the generational world you live in and learn to appreciate the differences and embrace them. The young can teach the old and vice versa. It is vital to work in a multi-generational setting to advance the mission of The Salvation Army because winning the world for Christ must transcend any generational separation. w

Photos by Tim Schaal

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Breakthrough A passionate platform for justice

dict because they were strong, fun and powerful. Today she is enrolled in an addiction counselor program.

Donna spent her life looking for the mother that reBy Toni Cartmell jected her. The kind of rejection that loves one sibling and not the other, ignores you on good days and verbally abuses you on bad days. She gets attention by lying and then moves into new social spheres when her lies are discovered. Today her “stories” are being challenged and she is figuring out a back to work plan.

In the first year of the program, we have seen three single moms go back to school, three moms become self-employed and one explore employment options. We have advocated in the courts for mothers, so they didn’t lose their housing and given support to a mom releasing her child for adoption.

We have formed trust with these families and are now invited into their deep crises and needs. Our The Breakthrough Program graduates of 2011 celebrate their success. participants need mentors to be committed for the long term, bring a capacity to love without conditions, be listeners not advice givers, be open to honesty and My first year working with the Female Lone Parent Breakthrough Program shredded the fabric of assumptions and stereotypes I had to be real people. The mentors that had the greatest impact, embraced the mentee as part of their community, created about single moms on income assistance and disability.

The program is jointly funded by The Salvation Army and Status life and at times, family.

A program redesign is now in process as we enter of Women Canada. It began with 10 single moms who met two mornings a week for 10 months. Participants learned about self-es- the second year of the program. We tell applicants that teem, communication, parenting, relationships, homemaking and breakthrough is about changing from the inside out and spirituality. Each one established goals that they wanted to work on will require tough emotional work. Our classroom is an incubator of life as we practice the behaviors to help us and with the support of a mentor, journeyed the path of change.

These women were resourceful, gifted, unique and apart from to grow toward health. At times, it is messy and conflict any circumstances, there was an untouched beauty and innocence arises—it’s the place where the gospel is lived, trust is in each one. They don’t need to be fixed; they need to be loved— built and opportunity is presented to learn and grow.

In the third year of our program, we plan to reduce generously, tenderly, and conscientiously. With little exception, the women were adult children of addicts or mothers with profound programming from two mornings a week to one. This mental health disorders. As their stories of terror, abuse, neglect, will allow the same number of workshops and provision and fostering nightmares unfolded, it became apparent that each of childcare over a two year span to give the participant time to build trust and process at a slower, more effective one had risen above her circumstances.

Shelly was raised in a single parent home and sexually abused by level in their learning and experiences.

These women are warriors and deserve esteem for her mother. She married an abusive man, whom she had what they have accomplished, for who three children by. While in court, after her husband tried they are and because of whose they are.

Major Toni to choke her to death, his lawyer said his actions were unCartmell is the Our invitation to these mothers is not for derstandable because she was repulsive and fat. Today she corps officer in them to be a better people, but to cast off is self-employed, is working to overcome a panic disorder Kelowna, British the chains forged by injustice and to emand has lost 70 pounds.

Columbia, and brace the freedom and power that comes director of the Lana grew up in a home where both parents were adFemale Lone Parent from being who God created them to be. w dicts. She knew by age seven that she wanted to be an adBreakthrough Program.

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Caring image contest winner ‘Army Responds’

By Robert Lebsack

‘Army Responds’ is a mixed media work that utilizes old copies of Salvation Army’s newspaper, New Frontier,” Lebsack said. “The figure depicts suffering humanity while the words and articles around and within illustrate how The Salvation Army is responding.”

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Facing faith

The struggles that Christianity encounters today

By Tim Morey

“I don’t believe

in God anymore.” The email was from a former student in my college group. “That’s the first time I’ve ‘thought’ that out loud, and I’ve been afraid to admit it, but I’d be lying to myself if I said otherwise.” He went on to say that he kind of wanted it to be true, but then listed for several pages reasons why it probably was not. Some objections were intellectual, though many more were experiential, coming out of his own exposure to Christianity. “How,” he asked in a dozen different ways, “can I possibly believe this is true?”

My friend represents that strange combination of longing and hesitancy that we see so often—a blend of intellectual questions, with questions best described as questions of the heart. Christianity claims to be so good, but is this really as good as it gets? He knew all the answers Christians had for his questions, found nearly all of them logical, some even likely—but 22

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the answers had no weight. His skepticism stemmed in large part from his experience with the church, and his university experience just fanned the flames of his doubts. His skepticism was heavy—so much so that reasoned answers alone couldn’t tip the scales to overcome his doubts. Even with logical answers firmly in hand, the gap between what the church says is true and the way it actually lives looms large. Rather than supporting the reasons for faith, the church’s practice often weighs against its being true.

Unfortunately, he’s far from alone.

Unchurched and dechurched For a long time the church in the United States has enjoyed a sort of home-court advantage. The nation was culturally Christian, and the language that we used to describe God—salvation, heaven, hell, Scripture and other religious concepts—was understood by the vast majority of Americans.

When one spoke about God or Jesus, they could reasonably assume that roughly the same image would come to mind for the listener. The average person held values that were marginally Judeo-Christian, had never met a Buddhist or a Muslim, and didn’t question whether truth existed or could be known.

All of this is changing. As our culture moves deeper into the 21st century, none of these assumptions hold true. To speak of God will likely bring to mind any number of images, from a theistic god as in Christianity, Islam, or Judaism, to a deistic god who had something to do with creation but is now uninvolved in the world, to god as an impersonal force as in Buddhist and New Age teachings, or god as one of a pantheon of spiritual beings as in Hindu teachings. Perhaps most likely of all, to mention God is to invoke the squishy, non-descript god of pluralism; the god who can be reached no matter what one thinks he or she might be like, and who accepts pilgrims who have taken any religious path to reach the deity. This god (if personal) is inevitably loving, approves of (or is at least indifferent to) one’s lifestyle whatever it might be, and in the unlikely event that he will judge people for their actions, his judgment will only fall on those more wicked than you or I. The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob has given way to the god of Oprah, Eckhart Tolle, and The Secret. America might be best described as post-Christian, and tenets of postmodern thinking, which once were fringe have trickled into our culture and become normalized.

In 2007 the Barna Group released an important study on

The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob has given way to the god of Oprah, Eckhart Tolle, and The Secret.

attitudes toward Christians held by 16-29-year-olds in the United States. Their top three impressions were that Christians are anti-homosexual, judgmental and hypocritical. In another very important study, The American Church Research Project deals with the actual numbers of people attending church. Statistics on U.S. church attendance are increasingly recognized as sorely inflated. To the bewilderment of pastors around the country, both Barna and Gallup report that between 40-47 percent of American adults attend church on a typical weekend. In what is termed “the halo effect,” it seems that respondents frequently report that they attend church far more often than they actually do (similar inflations occur when responding to questions about voting and sex).

When numbers are based on actual head counts—as opposed to respondents’ self-reporting—the percentage of attending adults drops to a more believable 17 percent. What’s more, this number is steadily declining, with some 3,700 churches closing for good each year. The church is not keeping up.

So what do we do? How do we present the uniqueness of Christ to a culture bent on religious pluralism? How do we bring truth to people who are so skeptical of truth?

My position is that as we move deeper into a post-Christian 21st century, the people of God will need to rediscover the power of an embodied apologetic. By this I mean an apologetic that is based more on the weight of our actions than the strength of our arguments. This is an apologetic that is high-touch, engages people relationally, and ordinarily takes place in the context of an ongoing friendship, and addresses the needs inquirers have and the questions they pose. It provides the weight to our answers that reason by itself, cannot.

In this article I want to suggest one concrete shape that such an apologetic might take, and I hope to spur others on to suggest other concrete shapes as well.

Constructing an embodied apologetic There are three hungers that seem to be particularly close to the surface in our post-Christian society. First, there is a hunger for transcendence. For most, there is some level of awareness that the spiritual world is real, and there is a desire to somehow connect with these transcendent realities.

Second, there is a hunger for community. While the hyper-individualism of our culture continues to dominate, it has also awakened a greater awareness of our need to be meaningfully connected to others. Third, there is a hunger for purpose. We live in an affluent time and place in world history, which has helped awaken the reality that we are made for more than simply making and spending money. Among young adults, there is recognition that we are made for a purpose and we want our lives to count for something.

The embodied apologetic I am fleshing out here corre-

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sponds with these hungers, as well as with the ministries that will be experienced, will take place in the context of the church. It is an apologetic that is experiential, com- of community and will be enacted by those in the communal, and enacted. In our context, the three ministries we munity. Too often, those on the outside and often those feel best connect the gospel to these hungers are the wor- on the inside see Christianity as concerned only with beship gathering, smaller expressions of community (such as lieving the right things: attending church and avoiding small groups, mentoring relationships, and sharing meals certain behaviors. What a contrast this is to the kingdom in people’s homes), and ministries of compassion and jus- announcement of Jesus! We tice. as the church serve as a sign, Experiential. An embodied apologetic is one that will be instrument, and first taste of experiential. In a postmodern world where truth is dogged God’s kingdom. Being in the by deep skepticism, experience is often the primary arbiter church, the world receives a of truth. What one experiences, and what one’s commu- powerful apologetic: a glimpse nity experiences, is most often what will be considered to of what it looks like when God be true. reigns in the world.

As Evangelicals we are often skeptical of experience, In the Sermon on the but I would assert that the Scriptures affirm that a per- Mount, Jesus told his followIn a postmodern son’s experience of God is given as an important means ers that they are the salt of by which they would determine whether he is real. The the earth and the light of the world where truth psalmist invites his hearers to “taste and see that the Lord world (Matt. 5:13). In saying is good” (Psalm 34:8). Jesus’ ministry was characterized by this, Jesus is in a sense, calling is dogged by an experiential apologetic. In addition to proclaiming the believers to serve as an enacted deep skepticism, kingdom of God, Jesus demonstrated its reality through apologetic. “Let your light shine his actions. His healings, exorcisms and miracles are best before men, that they may see experience is understood as signs that the kingdom of God was in their your good deeds and praise your often the primary midst, proving that the message Jesus brought was true Father in heaven” (Matt. 5:16).

(Luke 11:20). Jesus expects that his hearers will recog- Peter sums up an enacted arbiter of truth. nize him as the truth, not just because of the appeal of his apologetic well when he exwords, but because they experience the demonstration of horts his hearers to, “Be carehis message. ful to live properly among your In our churches, a worship gathering, which seeks to unbelieving neighbors. Then even if they accuse you of doing magnify both the nearness and transcendence of God, can wrong, they will see your honorable behavior, and they will provide a powerful venue for an experiential apologetic. give honor to God when he judges the world” (Peter 2:12).

Communal. In addition to being experienced, an embod- The good deeds of the church, often best seen in ministries ied apologetic will be communal. That is, the message of of compassion and justice, will demonstrate the reality of Christ will be more readily accepted when it is not just the message we proclaim. embodied as an individual, but in a community of ChrisIn a second century letter to Caesar Hadrian, the Christians who are committed to being shaped into the image tian apologist Aristides writes about the various ways of Christ.

Christians embody their faith. He explains that they love In the New Testament, this communal aspect of witness their enemies, live with honesty, care for the needs of is quite evident. Jesus tells his followers that the world strangers and even fast, so they will have enough money will know they are his disciples by the way to feed the poor. He concludes his letter with they love one another (John 13:35). In being this marvelous statement: “Such, O King…is Tim Morey is the united with God and one another, the church their manner of life…and verily this is a new founding and lead pastor serves as the world’s first taste of what life people, and there is something divine in the at Life Covenant Church in Torrance, Calif., in God’s kingdom will be like. In many of midst of them.” and adjunct professor our churches, as we welcome friends into Lord, grant us grace that we may hear the of practical theology our small groups, offer stable hospitality, and world say such things about us, your church, at Talbot School of other smaller expressions of community, our today. w Theology. He authored Embodying Our Faith, communal apologetic will be on display. and serves on the Enacted. An embodied apologetic is one Evangelical Covenant Church’s national church planting team.

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Modern day warriors Martial arts program trains internally and externally

By Karen Eden Herdman

When kids off the street walk in for karate lessons, some of them in dirty, ragged clothes with matted hair, I don’t see a street kid. I see a kid who wasn’t dealt the best set of cards, but with the right direction has every potential of becoming an outstanding citizen in this community.

I don’t exactly turn into Mary Poppins at this point. Matter-of-fact, some would argue that I get pretty strict. Make no mistake: as the karate instructor, I am on a mission to help combat the evils of poverty, low self-esteem and the lifestyle that follows when there’s a lack of focus and discipline.

The Red Shield Warriors is a diverse group—the homeless, local pastors, reformed drug addicts and at-risk youth are all here. We train both internally and externally, three times a week. Where you come from and what you look like is left at the entrance of the training hall. Who you are and what you are, simply doesn’t matter. As Karen Eden Herdman is a 5th degree our articles of faith proclaim, “We believe that all black belt and students in training are equal in the eyes of God.” master instructor That respect also includes keeping an up and of Tang Soo Do coming report card and developing spiritually. I rein the inner quire all of my young students to show me their city area of Denver, through The Salvation Army.

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report cards and to attend a church of their choice; many have chosen to attend the Red Shield Chapel on Sundays. I also require the working adult students to produce a monthly pledge stating that they are giving.

I don’t ask to whom or how much, just that they are giving somewhere in some way. They too must attend a spiritual meeting of their choice.

One of the kids It began 12 years ago, when the powers that be thought it would do more damage than good to support such a program. “You’re going to teach street kids how to fight?” I was asked. “No, I’m going to teach street kids how not to fight,” I would answer.

I believe I was also called to do this because I am one of these kids. My dad abandoned my family when I was 3. I grew up dirt poor with a mother who became emotionally incapable.

I know what it’s like to go to bed hungry. I know what it’s like to go to school and be made fun of because you’re wearing worn, outdated clothes.

Courage is a funny thing. I don’t know why some people are built to survive and others just go down in hard times. But I took it as my personal calling to help out these young people and to somehow give them a sense of hope.

Take Ronald Neal, a black belt candidate who has been training with The Red Shield Warriors for nine years. Earlier in his life, his twin brother committed suicide. The guilt of losing his brother led him to start drinking. Eventually Ron became an alcoholic and homeless. The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center took Ron in, and he signed up for karate lessons.

He has been clean and sober ever since, and currently teaches Tang Soo Do at the Citadel in Lakewood, Colo.

Why it works A Christian martial arts program through The Salvation Army is the perfect team-up.

The Army is the one organization that meets the needs of the community physically, emotionally and spiritually. Whether an afterschool program, or an adult rehab program, all who participate within this organization can easily sign-up and begin training. In 12 years, I’ve promoted a handful of students to the rank of black belt, including corps officer Major Carole Abella and her children.

Three more Christian black belts have since joined to help us operate, in three different locations throughout the Denver area; two are Denver law enforcement officers.

We have Red Shield Warrior programs up and running throughout the country Connect with Karen through various Salvation Army corps and website: redshielddenver.org community centers. Hundreds of karate email: karen.herdman@usw. salvationarmy.org schools and instructors have joined forces with us across the U.S. and in Canada to Photos by join “The Blood and Fire Federation” by fiMoss Photography nancially supporting us and adhering to our articles of faith. w

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Data overload

information in an easy to access and understandable format. The original idea behind the software How the Army is using technology to its advantage. was to help with annual divisional

By Tim Schaal reviews, when territorial leadership meets with the divisional adminiswhen the first computers started appearing in tration and reviews each corps in various Salvation Army divisional headquarters that division. Previously, the divithroughout the West. These computers—with a permanent hard drive capacity of sions spent weeks collecting all of just over seven megabytes—held pertinent statistical and financial data for a region the data and putting it together in for the current year. One of those drives could not store just one picture taken with a detailed report of easily over 300 the new Apple iPhone 4S. pages. A copy of this report was Flash forward 33 years to today and you now have computer systems in the Westthen printed for every member of ern Territory that store over 100 terabytes of information! But what do you do with the review team. such an overwhelming amount of data? How do you make sense out of so much With software designed to assist information? How do you prevent a situation of information overload? in the divisional review process, “There are secrets that can be unlocked in that information if we have the skill, administrative staff across the tercreativity and motivation to do it,” said Clarence White, chief information officer for ritory soon realized how valuable The Salvation Army in the USA Western Territory. “It should be able to tell us what access to the information would actions are likely to be most effective with what individuals. It can give us clues to be to help with everyday decisions. who, when and how much we can rely on our donors and supporters to aid our The software pulls the most recent cause.” information from the various daOne tool the West has used effectively to help with such decisions is the “Ministry tabases, providing a quick “snapSnapshot.” Created in 2006, it is an application that combines current statistical, fishot” of a corps, from both a stanancial, personnel, property, donor and corps membership information into a single tistical and financial point of view. web page for each of the almost 300 corps and Adult Rehabilitation CenOne of the more conters (ARC) in the territory. troversial aspects of the Tim Schaal is the Because the West had centralized all its data at servers located in Long Ministry Snapshot is the director of softBeach, Calif., it was able to quickly link it all together and present the ware development

It was 1979

in the USA Western Territory.

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program formulas used to score each ministry in how it is performing in four areas. Three of these mimic the specific items General John Gowans declared as the aim of The Salvation Army: to save souls, – Clarence White, CIO, USA grow saints, and Western Territory serve suffering humanity.

The other area reflects how well the unit is developing local leadership. It compiles various statistics from across the breadth of Salvation Army programs offered at a local corps, and using the four factors computes a score between zero and 10.

At its root, this score is made up of how many specific types of programs a corps is offering, and how effective those programs are. It does a decent job of accurately reflecting the health of a given corps in an easy to understand score. Before this was put in place, determining the health of a corps required pouring over pages of statistics so many tended to rely more on subjective opinions and empirical knowledge than on objective data.

“Through the years I have learned to rely on many more sources of information to make decisions rather than just experience, the feeling in my ‘gut’ or the counsel of others,” said Major

“There are secrets that can be unlocked in that information if we have the skill, creativity and motivation to do it.”

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Edward Hill, divisional commander for the Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division. “Indeed, the greatest challenge today is rarely a dearth of information, but more often an overload of data. The skilled leader has to learn how to wisely prioritize the myriad of data available and then make decisions that are not only Godhonoring, but also make good sense based on the needs of the people we work with and serve in the pursuit of carrying out the sacred mission of the Army.”

It’s not just in upper management that they use this wealth of data to make decisions. People in the field rely on it to make day-to-day decisions in the operations of their programs as well.

“We can easily collect and retrieve information on a large scale about the men in our program,” said Major John Greholver, administrator at the Sacramento ARC. “I meet weekly with staff to discuss and make critical decisions about these men, which can literally have life-or-death consequences in some of the most extreme cases. That storage and retrieval makes it easier for us to understand the men as individuals, and make prayerful, informed decisions, rather than depend on potentially biased anecdotal reports from one or two individuals.”

And what does the future hold? As more and more data is available and can be presented in an easy to understand fashion, it hopefully will lead to even better and more informed decisions in the future.

“Progress continues to be made to enhance the capabilities that already exist. Decision-making is always dependent on the accessibility of good information,” said Lt. Colonel Doug O’Brien, secretary for personnel for the Western Territory. “An already strong system is just going to get better and better, which should help get the right people in the right place.” w

Railton Place Serving five diverse populations under one roof

By Laine Hendricks

W

hen Captain Lisa Smith was appointed as the administrator of Railton Place in San Francisco, she did not know what to expect.

“The first thing I did was pray—a lot,” Smith said. “Then I really did my homework about my surroundings—the city, and other programs and agencies that could affect the program I was about to lead.”

As if its colorful exterior did not provide enough indication, Railton Place is certainly a unique addition to San Francisco, nestled in a high-crime neighborhood in a city with one of the highest rates of homelessness in the United States. This safe haven is not a shelter, but a

Above (l-r): David Adams, Rodney Bell, Captain Lisa Smith and Derek Sanders.

transitional and permanent housing facility. And unlike most transitional housing programs, which focus on one or two specific populations of people, Railton Place houses five very different programs under one roof.

The core of the program is focused on permanent residents, reserved for individuals who have been homeless for over 20 years and are ready to get off the streets and individuals who are chronically homeless and diagnosed with two or more issues, such as mental illness, substance abuse, alcoholism or are HIV positive.

Railton Place also offers up to two years of transitional housing and support for three very unique groups: homeless veterans whose age, illness, physical health, or alcoholism is the primary reason for being homeless; aged-out foster youth or young emancipated adults; and graduates of Salvation Army drug or alcohol recovery programs.

The facility offers 110 individual studio apartments that are clean and quiet, and give residents a safe place to continue their recovery or focus on transition.

Railton Place has case managers that offer a multitude of additional supportive services Laine Hendricks is the public relations to the residents to help them become self-sufdirector in the Golden State Division. ficient: life skills classes, grocery shopping and cooking classes, tax preparation, personal budPhotos courtesy of gets, balancing a checkbook, etc. They provide Railton Place

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“Sure, there may be a few that don’t make it, but for every one of those, we see two or three that shine.”

– Captain Lisa Smith, Railton Place administrator

referrals for vocational training, college classes and GED. Residents in recovery have access to Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous meetings and substance abuse counseling.

It’s a wrap around approach that attempts to address all aspects of life.

“We’re more than just landlords.

We’re surrogate parents. We’re counselors. We’re police officers,” Smith said.

“We’re involved as much as the resident needs us to be involved, hopefully to help him or her build the foundation

needed for a better life.”

In addition to being the only program in San Francisco to successfully house five different populations, Smith attributes Railton Place’s success to The Salvation Army’s mission.

While not all of Railton’s staff claims to be Christian or part of The Salvation Army church, they work hard to provide a spiritual awareness and sensitivity when working with a very diverse set of residents. Pastoral care is available upon request and if a resident should want spiritual counseling in something other than Christianity, the staff is happy to refer them.

Now just over three years old, the program has seen great success: 68 veterans have transitioned out of the program since its inception with 85 percent maintaining permanent housing since moving out.

Many Railton residents have transitioned into jobs, and those who have secured housing or jobs, are now peer counselors to others.

“We’re just seeing people’s lives change for the better,” Smith said.

“Sure, there may be a few that don’t make it, but for every one of those, we see two or three that shine.”

While the statistics are impressive, Smith is most moved by the individual change in people.

“One permanent resident relapsed after 15 months of sobriety. He asked us to pray with him, because he didn’t want to go back on the street,” Smith said. “Shortly after, he began making steps of improvement—at first half-hearted, then whole-hearted. Now he’s clean and sober, attending the local corps and doing well.”

And the individual stories of success do not stop there: one agedout foster youth became a certified Apple Computer Tech and is now a full-time employee in The Salvation Army’s Western territorial headquarters’ IT Department. Another young man earned a sound engineering certificate and another was accepted into Loyola University Chicago.

“I love the residents here—that’s my favorite part of my job,” Smith said. “It’s wonderful to get to know them and how we can help them.”

The first three years of operation have not been without challenges; including navigating city contracts, understanding the health effects of long-term homelessness and occasionally dealing with death. Working with vulnerable adults also means dealing with behavior problems and mental illness. The staff at Railton Place has learned to be proactive and anticipate situations. They deal with each issue individually and offer support for other residents.

“It’s a family atmosphere here,” Smith said. “Many residents no longer have family to turn to, so we’ve created one for them.” w 30

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Railton residents David Adams

A formerly unemployed veteran, Adams now holds a job as a security guard and is enrolled in school to become an armed guard. He connected with the Veteran’s Association, which helped him finance schooling and medical needs, including a full set of dentures. Adams also volunteers with the Meals That Heal program in San Francisco, delivering meals to people who otherwise wouldn’t eat.

Rodney Bell

As an emancipated youth, Bell lived in the foster care system since he was 2. The Railton Place internship program helped him secure work experience at the Army’s Golden State divisional headquarters. He is also attending a local college in pursuit of a future as a social worker.

Brigitte Curry

San Francisco’s homeless outreach team connected Curry with Railton Place. She is now enrolled in college, pursuing a certificate in mental health counseling and hopes to earn a graduate degree in psychology at the University of California, Berkeley. She actively volunteers with homeless programs, including counseling people who are suicidal, and regularly swims and works out at the neighboring Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center.

Derek Sanders

Without help from Railton Place, Sanders fears he would be dead.

The Vietnam Navy Veteran found treatment for his addictions at The Salvation Army’s Harbor Light Center and later transitioned into Railton Place. While working on recovery from a stroke he suffered living on the streets, Sanders works part-time in construction and is pursuing vocational training in the information technology field.

“I’m not turning my back on life any more,” Sanders said. “God has given me a second chance at life and I enjoy seeing San Francisco through clean and sober eyes.”

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Mission-equipped

By Betty Israel

Glendale, Ariz., may be a magnet for snowbirds and Major League Baseball spring training devotees, but this March it will also be the destination for over 500 Salvation Army officer and employee delegates to the 2012 National Social Services and Disaster Management Conference: “Ready for Mission-Equipped for Service.”

Mission and service have always been the heart of The Salvation Army. The 2012 conference brings together social service and disaster management ministries from across the United States and Canada with the goal of celebrating, promoting, shaping and advancing The Salvation Army’s expression of practical Christian response to human need.

We are living through a time of both social and environmental challenge. Whether the result of economic crisis or natural disaster, the human needs that are a consequence of these events bring about increasing and National President ongoing demands to Salvation Army ministries. The o f Wo m e n ’s O rNational Social Services and Disaster Management ganizations ComConference will be the place to share experiences missioner Nancy and ideas, learn new skills and broaden the scope and Roberts will celebrate programs quality of Salvation Army service.

Delegates will be able to select from over 90 work- and individuals shops and pre-conference seminars. Areas of interest from the four terwill include social service professionals and self-care, ritories, as well as homelessness and housing, addictions, general so- disaster managecial service program resources, human trafficking, ment services, who administration and a wide array of disaster manage- have been selected for special recognition. Dr. Ronald Sider, Canadian-born ment topics.

Throughout the conference an exciting exhibition American theologian, founder of Evangelicals for Social hall will offer products, services, resources and in- Action and professor of “Theology, Holistic Ministry and formation related to all aspects of social service and Public Policy” at Palmer Theological Seminary will speak disaster management operations. Workshops, includ- in the final plenary session.

In General Linda Bond’s “Vision Plan,” there is a coming off site tours of premier area Salvation Army programs, will be held throughout the event and evening mitment to four mission goals: emphasize our integrated plenary sessions will include local and national guests ministry, reach and involve youth and children, stand for affiliated with Salvation Army disaster management and serve the marginalized and encourage innovation in ministries and highlight the Ahwatukee Foothills mission. Participants in the 2012 National Social Services and Disaster Management Conference live out Baptist Church choir and orchestra. Comthese mission goals every day, and as a result of Major Betty missioners James and Carolyn Knaggs, Israel is their conference experience, will be even betWestern Territorial leaders, will conduct the the national ter equipped to fulfill the vision of The Salvation conference worship service. National Comsocial services Army. w mander Commissioner William Roberts and secretary.

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“The Salvation Army Child Care centers are model programs that work tirelessly to serve the children most in need.”

– Gail Conway, CEO, Chicago Metropolitan Association for the Education of Young Children

CENTRAL TERRITORY Metropolitan Division Child Care Program Chicago, Ill.

By Melanie Scofield

Established in 1979, The Salvation Army Child Care Program of the Metropolitan Division provides a set of comprehensive services that support children and families in many of Chicago’s most underserved and disadvantaged communities. The program operates six Head Start locations, serving a total of 438 children: 136 in half-day child care, 244 in full-day care and 58 infants and toddlers.

The program seeks to promote early childhood development, literacy, well-being and health. Key to achieving these goals is a highly qualified staff with formal training in early childhood education that incorporates best practices based on established quality standards and research.

“The Salvation Army Child Care centers are model programs that work tirelessly to serve the children most in need,” says Gail Conway, CEO of the Chicago Metropolitan Association for the Education of Young Children. “The Salvation Army serves the youngest and most vulnerable; every dollar invested truly makes a difference in reducing the likelihood of delinquency, crime and other social ills.”

The Salvation Army Child Care Program also operates the Family Outreach Initiative program that provides childcare services to 81 homeless families, including family support and case management to help

families achieve stability in a community and to meet the needs of their children through site visits and referrals for medical and dental treatment and other services.

The Salvation Army’s Teen Parenting program provides comprehensive childcare training and case management to 26 teen parents, including pregnant mothers, of infants up to 6-months-old.

The Army’s Enhanced Day Care Home Network recruits and monitors childcare providers who are licensed to care for children in home-based childcare centers. The Army works in partnership with three community-based childcare agencies to help them move toward independent operation and accreditation.

“The Salvation Army’s Child Care programs are located in communities that are academically underserved and disadvantaged,” said Leon Denton, Children and Youth Development Services director. “This has prompted our staff to work with parents to develop techniques and strategies that increase resiliency even in the most challenging cirMelanie Scofield is cumstances. Our child care programs also the director of public relations for the benefit from being able to incorporate the Metropolitan Division. expertise of other Salvation Army experts in social services, mental health and nutriPhotos by tion and outreach.”

Mark Battrell

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The Salvation Army worked diligently with state agencies, the FBI, her family and airlines to ensure she could return home.

EASTERN TERRITORY Jamestown Corps Domestic Violence Services Program Jamestown, Ny.

By Christine Gray

The Salvation Army Jamestown Corps Domestic Violence Services Program began on Christmas Eve 1985 in helping a battered woman and her children. Since then, the shelter, its programs and services have been a vital service provider for those in need in Chautauqua County, western New York and on the shores of Lake Erie. Over the years, it has become the designated referral agency for all county mandated domestic violence services.

“No community is immune to the problem of domestic violence,” said Major Donald Hostetler, divisional commander of The Salvation Army Empire State Division. “The domestic violence program in Jamestown is a bright beacon in the community for women and children in need.”

As a measure of its impact in the community, the program was asked to participate in the county’s new judicial Integrated Domestic Violence Court, serving families with the underlying issue of domestic violence.

Additionally, the children’s division was asked to present to other domestic violence centers regarding its methods on trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, art and play therapy. One resident is a student whose mother (a victim of domestic violence) disappeared and 34

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is presumed murdered by the father. During each therapy session, the student creates a special book about his mother, what happened the day she disappeared, how his life has changed and what different feelings he’s experienced.

A small city like Jamestown is not immune to the international problem of human trafficking. One resident immigrated to America on a fiancé visa but became a victim of physical, sexual, financial and emotional abuse.

Police contacted The Salvation Army to provide assistance, and during her stay she was diagnosed with stage four-lung cancer. Her dying wish was to return to the Philippines to her home and family. The Salvation Army worked diligently with state agencies, the FBI, her family and airlines to ensure she could return home.

While the program receives respect and recognition from the community, it is the women and children helped that is its hallmark.

Operating at almost 100 percent capacity, this program continues to serve the Chautauqua County area as a resource for faith, loving and healing to those in need. w

Christine Gray is the director of communication for the Empire State Division.

Photo by Stacey Tanner

National Social Services and Disaster Management Conference

The Georgia Red Shield Shelter provides haircuts for Father’s Day.

SOUTHERN TERRITORY Red Shield Shelter A tlanta, Ga.

By Janet Tharp

Stocking the shelves with book donations

The past year for Schmidt meant devoting her entire self to the families that she knew were waiting and sleeping on floors in other shelter facilities.

For the past 18 years Janeane Schmidt has dedicated herself to compassionately addressing the plight of the homeless. As executive director of The Salvation Army Red Shield Shelter in Atlanta, Schmidt sets and executes standards for service far and above those utilized by most organizations dedicated to serving homeless individuals and families. She recognizes that providing safe and supportive housing is the first need to be met.

For more than a year, the Atlanta Area Compartners, donors, and government officials to demand has faced funding constraints on a level velop funding sources to open the rooms. never before experienced. Leadership looked to At the same time, she oversaw the construcSchmidt to determine how to realize funding withtion, purchasing and employment of all aspects out cutting services to the consumers who depend of the newly constructed add-on facility. The on the Red Shield’s services everyday to provide for past year for Schmidt meant devoting her entire themselves and their families. self to the families that she knew were At most risk was the potential delayed waiting and sleeping on floors in other Janet Tharp opening of the newly constructed 82-bed shelter facilities. She knows that once is the director family wing that would provide 2,460 of programs they are inside our doors they stand a for the Metro individuals shelter and 7,380 meals per much better chance of stabilizing and Atlanta Area month. Schmidt approached the crisis independently managing their own Command. with professionalism and determination. lives. She has made Red Shield “home” She talked to media, and collaborated with for hundreds of people in Georgia. w Photos by Sheena Gadson

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WESTERN TERRITORY The Haven Los Angeles, Calif.

By Janice Tsao

The Salvation Army was one of the first nonprofit organizations to partner with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to help the homeless veteran population, resulting in an award of federal funds to the Army in 1994 to open a 65 bed Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem Program (GPD) in West Los Angeles—The Haven.

Since its inception, The Haven has expanded significantly. It includes three transitional residential housing programs (135 GPD beds total), two residential emergency shelters (64 beds total), board and care residential program (70 beds total), and employment and housing supportive services programs.

Through all of our eight programs, we offer homeless veterans evidence-based treatment, income stabilization services, affordable housing services and case management support to integrate back into the community.

Of the approximately 8,000 homeless veterans in Los Angeles County, The Haven serves over 2,500 annually—one-third of the entire homeless veteran population in the area.

Joan, a 53-year-old veteran of the U.S. Air Force, became homeless as a result of intense mental health issues associated with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and obesity. With medication, individual and group therapy at The Haven, she quickly became stable—mentally and financially. She joined the VA’ s wellness program, which helped Janice Tsao is the her lose weight through executive director exercise and eating habof The Haven. its. Joan eventually secured Section 8 housing Photos by Nikole Lim of her own. w

Norma Stone, a recent graduate of The Haven

Of the approximately 8,000 homeless veterans in Los A n g e l e s C o u n t y, T h e H a v e n s e r v e s o v e r 2 , 5 0 0 a n n u a l l y.

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Individual recipients of the National Award for Excellence in Social Work: CENTRAL TERRITORY: Louise Simons, divisional social services director, Nor thern Division EASTERN TERRITORY: Florence Rhue, director of children’s services, Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Division SOUTHERN TERRITORY: Deronda Metz, director of social services, Charlotte Area Command WESTERN TERRITORY: Lawrence W illiams, Addictions Treatment Services executive director, Haw aiian and Pacific Islands Division

Coming Summer 2012

All things Kroc Everything you ever wanted to know

Articles by: w General Linda Bond w Commissioner Don Bell w Amy Ragen, Joan Kroc’s granddaughter w Kroc Center administrators Pre-order in bulk or by subscription: caring@usw.salvationarmy.org 562/491-8723 Facebook: CaringMagazine Twitter: @CaringMagazine

The holistic ministries of The Salvation Army

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Disaster strikes twice 38

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The Salvation Army was at hand to save lives. In conjunction with the International Emergency Services, the Kenya East and Kenya West Territories provided food and water to the affected communities.

The Kenya East Territory launched a three-month famine relief program. Under this program, 900 families received food portions in the form of 110 pounds of maize, 22 pounds of beans and three litres of cooking oil.

Frail faces of old women lay on the ground, as they anxiously waited for their share of the aid. The beneficiaries were full of praises to the Army, for intervening in the wanting situation.

Overwhelmed with the pressing need for food and resources, the government requested that The Salvation Army “do what it can” to supply food to some schools.

The Army responded by staging a school-feeding program in 16 primary schools within the Machakos District. More than 3,500 pupils are now receiving a lunchtime meal of rice and beans, as recommended by the Ministry of Education.

Kenya drought and flood cause catastrophic consequences.

By Marion Ndeta

It

was depressing to watch the news. The president declared it a national disaster and the government, Red Cross, World Food Program and other Anticipation for the rains rekindled hopes of a bethumanitarian organizations launched appeals for ter harvest. Indeed, by the second week of November, help as a drought—said to be the worst in over 60 years— grounds were flourishing with crops. Praying Christians in the Horn of Africa affected more than 13 million people. continued to thank God for the showers of blessing. HowFaces of malnourished babies circulated through the ever, not long after, reports of flooding in various regions media; a baby trying to suckle milk from her dead moth- that had been drought-stricken were here with us. er was among the most disturbing images. Carcasses of Lives and property were already being lost as the Red livestock succumbing to the pangs of hunger were strewn Cross reported that close to 4,000 families had been left across fields. Schools even closed due to lack of food homeless by floods. Raging waters swept homes and while food prices shot up 200 percent. The environment schools, leaving the residents with no option but to run was unimaginable; it almost felt wicked to eat, sleep or be for dear life with the little they could salvage. happy while millions of people faced starvation.

Once again, the country was at war with a natural caMost of the affected areas went without rain for two lamity, struggling to help displaced persons. Meteoroloyears, leaving Kenya in crisis as it depends on farming and gists forecasted that the rains would continue in 2012, livestock rearing. The long spells of dryness meant un- and warned those living in low lands to flee from possible productive lands and inevitably resulted land and mudslides. Thus, the Marion Ndeta Photos by in conflict, especially among pastoralist situation continues, presenting is the editor Marion Ndeta communities. enormous need that requires and publications In response to the government’s plea, manager in the support and intervention. w Kenya East Territory.

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A rose by any other name Thoughts on marriage

By Jack Anderson

Shakespeare’s ingenious quotation from Romeo and Juliet is to purport the idea that a rose still smells like a rose no matter what you call it. But is that idea true when it comes to defining marriage? Is same-sex marriage the same as heterosexual marriage? Does homosexual marriage diminish and distort the meaning of the word?

Last year I was invited to attend a meeting regarding the ordination of candidates of another Protestant denomination. I was surprised, taking a break to go to the restroom, that the only one available had a large sign, “LGBT Restroom” on the door. Not fitting any of those categories (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender), I don’t know if I was welcome to use the restroom, but I did so anyway. It is no secret that non-traditional sexual standards are emerging in our culture and around the world.

This article is not an attempt to decipher the origin or source of homosexuality (the genetic predisposition vs. learned behavior argument). Rather, I wish to point out a few helpful tips in understanding and responding as individuals and an organization to the growing homosexual trend in our society.

First, to point out the obvious: The Salvation Army is a religious, apolitical organization. Historically and doctrinally, the Army has interpreted biblical truths at face value. While this may seem naïve to some modern scholars of biblical texts, the Army is straightforward in outlining in its doctrinal statement that we believe the Scripture of the Old and New Testaments are inspired writings. As

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such, the Army has an official Position Statement on homosexuality. It includes, “Scripture forbids sexual intimacy between members of the same sex. The Salvation Army believes, therefore, that Christians whose sexual orientation is primarily or exclusively same-sex are called upon to embrace celibacy as a way of life. There is no scriptural support for same-sex unions as equal to, or as an alternative to, heterosexual marriage.”

I begin with this because at face value, I cannot find any Scripture that condones, affirms or promotes homosexual behavior or partnerships. It is troubling to me that there are Bible-believing Christians who have endorsed homosexual unions, and in some denominations have ratified ordination for individuals who are in homosexual unions. In reviewing various studies and articles on the topic, I have found common themes that people use to justify homosexuality and gay marriage as being permissible and even sanctioned by God. Scriptural references about homosexuality are discarded as antiquated and out of touch with modern culture, so they need not be taken seriously. In other words, the teachings may have been relevant for past cultures, but not for our present enlightened times, bolstered by science and research.

Old and New Testaments references are given complex interpretations to justify homosexuality. For example, Paul states in Romans 1, women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also

According to the Public Religion Research Institute, there is at least a 20-point gap between those ages 18-29 and those ages 65 and older on every public policy measure in the survey concerning equality for gay and lesbian people, with younger Americans gravitating toward equality.

abandoned natural relations with view of marriage. Common verwomen and were inflamed with lust biage includes “homophobe,” for one another. The rationale is that “bigot,” “narrow-minded” and for some people, homosexual attrac“intolerant.” You can hold firm to tion is quite natural and Paul just your moral and biblical belief with didn’t have a good understanding of security and confidence without human nature. reacting to such accusations. Our Another justification is that the Army’s work and belief system is teachings of Jesus are inclusive, not not one of condemnation, but of exclusive. How could God allow the proclamation; not one of appeasecreation of a person who is homoment, but of appeal to truth. We sexual, and then condemn him or are not reactive, but rather proher? A God of love and grace would active in proclaiming the love of not do so. Furthermore, Jesus never Christ and his saving grace. spoke explicitly of homosexuality as Let him who is without sin cast being sinful, and his overall message the first stone (John 8:7). Let us of acceptance and forgiveness sunot lose track of our own shortpersedes any questions about sexual comings and sinfulness. This will behavior or orientation. help develop an attitude of comIt is said that homosexual bepassion and love. Christ died for havior is not a main concern of the the homosexual person, the same Bible. Just as other teachings in both as he did for everyone else. Quottestaments that we do not take seriing another of our Position Stateously today (for example, that womments on Human Equality, “The en should cover their heads in worSalvation Army has been conship), the references to homosexualcerned from its inception with the ity are man-inscribed opinions and spiritual and social needs of all not really divine instructions. people, recognizing that all bear Those who promote homosexuthe divine image and are equal in ality in the church clearly present many rationales, yet I intrinsic value.” refer back to my opening statement that the Army holds Develop and promote friendships with people who firmly to a traditional view of sexuality and marriage. I have different lifestyles and beliefs than your own. Is this say “traditional” rather than “conservative” or “liberal,” as not the “Jesus way?” Was Jesus not criticized by the Pharithose terms are more relevant to political dialogue. By tra- sees for hanging out with sinners? He touched those with ditional, I imply that the Christian church, since its origin, leprosy, developed relationships with prostitutes, and perhas taught a fundamental belief that marriage is between haps most vile of all, he associated with tax collectors. Inone man and one woman, and that this is God’s design vite these friends into your home and to the corps—not from the very beginning. Until recent times, it has not to promote an agenda, but to give them a good dose of been a major issue of debate in the church—Roman Ca- Christian love. It is the power of Christ and the inspiratholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, the Reformation churches tion of the Holy Spirit that changes people’s lives, not our or in Wesleyan denominations. moral indictment of others.

This leads us to next consider the plight of deeply comFinally, keep your house in order. In other words, does mitted Christians who struggle with homosexual desires your marriage reflect the love, fidelity, closeness, comand tendencies, as well as non-believers. I suggest the fol- munication and parenting that you would want modeled lowing responses: by others? Our actions speak louder than words.

We must resist becoming contentious If we really believe that heterosexual marriage is Dr. Jack Anderson with those who disagree with our posiGod’s design, then let us demonstrate how good is a consultant for personnel develoption. There is hostility from some groups it can be. ment in the Western toward those who hold to the traditional A rose should still be called a rose. w Territory.

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The Long Journey Home: Understanding and Ministering to the Sexually Abused

By JoAnn Shade In my first year serving in Salvation Army ministry, I attended a continuing education session that addressed a variety of social problems I might encounter in my work.

Those first few months of ministry had been eye opening for a young girl from Tonawanda, Ny. Divorce—yep, we’ve got that in our church. Child abuse—I could name the kids, and had to fight the urge to take them home with me. Alcohol abuse—one of our members had been at our door that week, inebriated and belligerent. And sexual abuse—well, this was 1978 and not too many people were talking about it openly in the church yet, but hindsight tells me that was present as well.

Fast forward to 2011. Sexual abuse is no longer the taboo subject it was in the church of my childhood. It’s a common theme in the stories of many women and even some men, who seek mental health counseling or pastoral care.

Therapists now understand the impact of the abuse on their clients, while pastors face its spiritual and emotional fallout in the pews.

How can these different disciplines bring their strengths to

this serious subject?

What might help connect the dots between theology, psychology and pastoral care? Long conversations over coffee would be a great, but aren’t really practical between busy professionals living across the country.

Moody Bible Institute professor, Andrew Schmutzer, has made the conversations happen through a new sourcebook for those who want to understand and support the healing work of the Spirit of God. In The Long Journey Home, Schmutzer invites 27 professionals who work in psychology, theology and pastoral care to discuss a collaborative approach to sexual abuse. The book also provides theological reflection, pastoral wisdom and current research in mental health.

Published by Wipf and Stock, The Long Journey Home will be an invaluable resource for professional helpers and provide an accessible foundation for the caring friend or for the survivor of abuse.w Major JoAnn Shade is the corps officer and co-director of the Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center in Ashland, Ohio.

A chapter by Shade titled “Spiritual Formation and the Sexually Abused: Redemptive Companionship” is included in The Long Journey Home (Wipf & Stock, 2011).

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IN PRINT

CALLED TO PREACH: Sermons

by Salvationist Women (Salvation Books, 2011) this collection of sermons by Salvationist women preachers reflects the Army’s strong heritage, reaching right back to its inception when Catherine Booth won for women the freedom to speak and preach about the Christian faith.

LOVE­—RIGHT AT THE HEART (Salvation Books, 2011) examines how Salvationists have a responsibility to one another, while also taking a caring ministry to the world. “...by presenting Jesus’ command to love as he loved in a clear, enterprising and challenging manner, Robert Street opens more doors for us all.” – General Linda Bond.

FAITH ALIVE: Rhythms of Scripture

(Salvo Publishing, 2011) is an inspirational resource containing hundreds of songpoems that can be used for both public worship and personal devotions.

ESSENTIALS OF CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE (Salvation Books, 2011) gives the 21st century reader an insight into the thoughts that General Frederick Coutts shared with thousands of people during his ministry.

GIVING 2.0

(Jossey-Bass, 2012) shows how individuals of every age and income level can harness the power of technology, collaboration and social entrepreneurship to take their giving to the next level.

ON THE WEB

GOOD IDEA. NOW WHAT?

IT SEEMED LIKE A GOOD IDEA AT THE TIME: Some of the Best and Worst Decisions in the Bible (Crest Books, 2011) takes a lighthearted look at the causes and effects of decision making in biblical situations.

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(Wiley, 2012) covers the entire process for successfully building out a concept. This presentation enables you to move freely among subjects, from sparking inspiration, to making an effective plan, to collaborating, to branding, and more. See more at goodideabook.com

youtube.com/salvationarmytoday The Salvation Army’s USA Southern Territory launched “Salvation Army Today,” a web-based news show. The weekly program offers breaking news and information concerning the Army’s many ministries around the world.