SAconnects, Volume 2, Number 3

VOL. 2, NO. 3 • APRIL 2016

the magazine

encuentran la fraternidad

en Springfield, Ohio

finding fellowship

in Springfield, Ohio page 14

THE COMMISSIONERS

SWANSON

welcome 140 people seeking Salvation Army officership.

SACONNECTS.ORG

page 20

EVE RY K I D S HO U L D EXPE R I E NC E

CAMP

For more information on Salvation Army camping ministries please visit boothyouth.com

our leaders

IN focus

MAKING a better place CREAR un mundo mejor In my daily work, I’m tasked with managing the resources of our Army. There are times when that can be difficult.

Since the fall of 2015, the world’s economies have been unsettled and many people have been challenged to keep things moving forward. Investments haven’t performed as well as the money managers had hoped, so plans have had to change. Strategies have needed to be altered. And we have had to keep going.

We are also in the throes of a heated political season where candidates running at every level, from the presidency to the local municipality, are promising us that if we elect them they will make our lives better. But often, at the end of their terms in office, we see that their campaign trail promises rarely match the ultimate realities.

For nearly 23 years, I was blessed to have my parents as my corps officers (pastors). Even after I left home and went to college, they were appointed as my new corps officers. I have often described my father as one of the Army’s “old war horses” who instilled in us that our role—as soldiers, officers, and children of God—was to work to make things better.

In the parable of the Good Samaritan, God’s word tells us about a traveler who had been robbed and beaten. There were people who saw him, but did nothing. But an unlikely individual we know as the Good Samaritan had mercy on the traveler and took care of his present and future needs.

The Samaritan definitely made the situation better. Had he not intervened, the man would have certainly died.

Every day, we encounter people whose lives need to be made better. Do your part. Say a good word. Help a person in need. Show the love of God. And when you do, the world will be a better place.

— Lt. Colonel / Tte. Coronel Donald W. Lance Secretary for Business Administration Secretario de Administración de Negocios

A diario en mi trabajo me hago cargo de administrar los recursos de nuestro Ejército. Hay veces en que esta tarea resulta bastante difícil. Desde el otoño de 2015, las economías mundiales se han mostrado muy inestables y muchas personas han tenido que enfrentar el desafío de mantener las cosas funcionando lo mejor posible. Sin embargo, se han tenido que modificar los planes ya que las inversiones no resultaron como lo habían anticipado los administradores de fondos.

Se han tenido que cambiar situaciones y hemos tenido que seguir delante de la mejor manera posible.

Nos encontramos además en pleno proceso de una intensa temporada política en que los candidatos que aspiran a distintos puestos, -desde la presidencia hasta nuestras municipalidades, nos prometen que, si los elegimos, ellos se encargarán de mejorar la calidad de nuestras vidas. Pero a menudo, al final de sus mandatos nos damos cuenta que las promesas que nos habían hecho durante su campaña electoral raramente se vuelven realidad.

Durante casi 23 años, tuve la bendición de tener a mis padres como Oficiales Directivos (el equivalente a los pastores en otras iglesias). Incluso después de irme de casa y de asistir a la universidad, fueron nombrados como mis nuevos Oficiales Directivos. Suelo describir a mi padre como uno de los “viejos caballos de batalla” del Ejército que nos inculcó que nuestro papel—como soldados, como oficiales e hijos de Dios—era trabajar para mejorar las cosas.

En la parábola del Buen Samaritano, la Palabra de Dios nos habla acerca de un viajero que fue asaltado y golpeado, quedando muy malherido a la vera del camino. Varias personas lo vieron y pasaron por su lado sin hacer nada, pero la menos esperada, -aquella que conocemos como el Buen Samaritano, sintió compasión por el viajero y atendió sus presentes y futuras necesidades. El samaritano definitivamente mejoró la situación, ya que de no haber sido por él, seguramente el viajero habría muerto.

Todos los días nos encontramos con personas que necesitan tener mejores vidas. Ayúdalas: di una palabra reconfortante, ayuda a una persona necesitada, muestra el amor de Dios, y al hacerlo, el mundo será mejor.

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2016 APRIL

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ITH

C E IN OM GE TE MI NE IN RN SS RA CO STALL AT ION L & W LO ATIO IL N N O ION ER LI EL F N SU AM S EW AL L SILV P P T H OR EA IA E A E TED A. G. L T E R R D E CO N I BA OR TOR S O S T E BY RS X I W NG ER Y M R A AL L F E ST N T OR O R I N E ADE ER ER K D, & RS S RI ST III TO A F RI F B AL A ND &

W

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20 H AC 5 BE T D US AR UG CH A O R 0– D 3 O L LY

JU

USA Eastern Territory

Vol. 2, No. 3

CONTENTS APRIL 2016

IN focus

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1 our leader letter 4 from the editor 6 sound doctrine

ON file

5 relevents Major Soo Jung Kim talks about the “halftime” of her officership, as well as her family, and how we’re all artists in God’s eyes.

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7 testimony For years, Fabi Soto ran from God. But now, she’s training to become a Salvation Army officer.

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28 wholly living Create your sacred space.

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unity

Lieutenant Seoyoung Lim shares her life as an assistant officer and as a commanding officer in N.J.

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10 Another Chance at Life

32 great moments Lt. Colonel Thomas Gorman celebrates 100 years of abundant life.

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FAITH in ACTION 8 Great

14 ‘I’m Worth Something’

The Salvation Army in Springfield, Ohio, began reaching out to men living at the Hartley House homeless residence. Now, some of them come to the corps on Sundays and have found that the congregation and God love them.

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20 Coming In, Cover: Kery L. Shay

Going Out

Two hundred people pray during the conclusion of an inspiring College for Officer Training, Candidates Seminar Weekend event.

Five years ago, Mike Riemer, a retired Pittsburgh–area policeman, became the Salvation Army’s EDS director. That career move reinvigorated him spiritually and l iterally helped save his life.

COVER STORY

Performances

The Phil Ramone Orchestra for Children performs with a quintet from West Point Academy.

features

Para leer más artículos en español por favor visite

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SACONNECTS.ORG/ENESPANOL

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IN focus

from the editor the magazine

your connection to The Salvation Army

USA EASTERN TERRITORY TERRITORIAL LEADERS Commissioner Barry C. Swanson Commissioner E. Sue Swanson

terminar

con las ideas preconcebidas

Recordaré con gran regocijo a la niña caribeña que un día entabló una conversación conmigo. Me preguntó: “¿De dónde eres?” Cuando le dije: “Soy de Ohio”, entrecerró los ojos, colocó su dedo pulgar en la barbilla y preguntó: “¿Y dónde está esa isla?” Mientras le explicaba que Ohio forma parte de los Estados Unidos, pude ver cómo se iluminaban sus ojos a medida que mis palabras terminaban con sus ideas preconcebidas y ampliaban su visión del mundo.

En mayo, disfrutarás al leer cómo la Banda de Nueva York del Ejército de Salvación (NYSB, por sus siglas en inglés) amplió su visión del mundo durante su histórica visita a la isla de Cuba. Te integrarás y seguirás a la banda en su viaje a lugares a los que muy pocos estadounidenses han visitado mediante impresionantes fotografías e historias cautivantes.

Hugo Bravo, nuestro editor hispano, te mostrará cómo fue que, a través de la música, la banda rindió honor al Señor en esta nación que hasta hace muy poco, era para muchos una isla prohibida.

Mientras satisfaces tu curiosidad de aprender sobre esta isla, también te sorprenderás al descubrir que un valeroso y discreto grupo de salvacionistas, supo mantener el ministerio del Ejército de Salvación activo en la isla durante los últimos 98 años contra viento y marea.

En el mismo número, Robert Mitchell, el director editorial, rendirá un informe sobre el Programa del Ejército “Camino de Esperanza” (“Pathway of Hope”, en inglés). Podrás leer dos ejemplos conmovedores que ilustran por qué este programa es tan importante para las madres solteras.

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shattering

assumptions I will joyfully remember the Caribbean child who engaged me in conversation one day. She asked, “Where are you from?” When I said, “I’m from Ohio,” she narrowed her eyes, put her thumb to her chin, and followed, “And where is that island?” As I explained to her that Ohio is one of the United States, I saw her eyes brighten as my words shattered her assumptions and enlarged her worldview.

In May, you’ll enjoy reading how the New York Staff Band’s (NYSB) worldview was enlarged during its historic visit to the island of Cuba. Through stunning photographs and insightful stories, you’ll join the band as it journeys where few Americans have ever gone.

Hugo Bravo, our Hispanic editor, will show you how the band’s concert beautifully honored God on this previously forbidden island.

As you satisfy your curiosity with Cuba, you’ll also be astonished to discover how a group of courageous Salvationists quietly maintained the Army’s ministry there for 98 years—against all odds.

In the same issue, Robert Mitchell, managing editor, will report on the Army’s Pathway of Hope Program.

You’ll read two heartwarming examples that illustrate why this program is so important to single moms.

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

CHIEF SECRETARY Colonel William A. Bamford III SECRETARY FOR COMMUNICATIONS Lt. Colonel Cheryl A. Maynor EDITOR IN CHIEF Warren L. Maye MANAGING EDITOR Robert Mitchell EDITOR / HISPANIC CORRESPONDENT Hugo Bravo KOREAN EDITOR Lt. Colonel Chongwon D. Kim ART DIRECTOR Reginald Raines PUBLICATION DESIGNER Lea La Notte Greene GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Keri Johnson, Karena Lin, Joe Marino PHOTOGRAPHER Keri L. Shay CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Brenda Lotz, Major Young Sung Kim CIRCULATION Deloris Hansen COMMAND NEWS CORRESPONDENTS ARCC Major Charles Deitrick

PENDEL R andall Thomas Major Kathryn A. Avery EMP Jaye C. Jones

MASS Drew Forster

NNE Cheryl Poulopoulos PR & VI Linette Luna SNE James Gordon

WEPASA Captain Kimberly DeLong NJ Siran Farrar

Territorial Music Liaison Ronald Waiksnoris

Territorial Youth Liaison Captain Gillian Rogers New command correspondents will be appointed soon for

CFOT, GNY, NEOSA, SWONEKY

THE SALVATION ARMY

MISSION STATEMENT

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

SAConnects is published monthly by The Salvation Army USA’s Eastern Territory. Bulk rate is $12.00 per month for 25–100 copies.

Single subscriptions are available. Write to: SAConnects, The Salvation Army, 440 W. Nyack Rd., West Nyack, NY 10994–1739.

Vol. 2, No. 3, April Issue 2016. Printed in USA. Postmaster: Send all address changes to: SAConnects, 440 West Nyack Rd., West Nyack, NY 10994–1739. SAConnects accepts advertising. Copyright © 2015 by The Salvation Army, USA Eastern Territory. Articles may be reprinted only with written permission.

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relevents

ON file

Interview by Hugo Bravo

Major Soo Jung Kim, private secretary for the Territorial Commander’s Office, talks with SAConnects about the “halftime” of her officership, how the arts have played a significant role in her life, and how her marriage reflects her ministry.

Photo by Kery L. Shay

This period in my life is “halftime.” This year will mark the 20th year of my officership, and I have 18 years of active duty to go. I’m so happy to be at this stage, having gained so much wisdom. I can honestly say that I spent the first half of my officership learning. Of course, in the years to come, I will learn much more, but for now, I need to see how I will apply what I’ve already learned. I ask myself, Where is this wonderful adventure taking me now, and what can I contribute? It’s so different from when I entered my first year. I was like a small bird learning to fly. Today, every day is a flight with Christ.

Art lives in every one of us. Since I moved to America at the age of 11, art has been a part of my life. As a young girl, I was timid, could not speak the language, and didn’t have a means of expressing myself. I often found myself imagining, sketching, and drawing.

Doing so created a world where I felt safe. As an officer, art became essential to how I expressed Christ to others. As with sacred dance, art can move people beyond words.

One day after I had finished a dance performance at a senior home, a woman got up and swiftly danced across the floor as if she were in the arms of the Savior. God delights in His creations. If we’re His children and made in His image, then surely we too are artists!

This is my 27th year of marriage to Major Young Sung Kim. No one person has had more of an influence on me than my husband. Because I am a visual person, it was hard for me to express myself in speaking or in writing. He has infused in me the ability and the confidence to speak my mind and to be a woman who can share her wisdom. We love and respect each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Together we form a community, one that is constantly growing and changing. The growth in our marriage reflects positively on our ministry.

I am drawn to the colors of the world. I simply can’t imagine the world in black and white.

Today, my job involves seeing the differences and the beauty of people in ministry, expressing their own colors. I also love the colors of winter. They are stronger and more defined than colors seen during the rest of the year.

My children are the sunshine that warms my heart.

My youngest has just finished college, so now they are both completely on their own. I am so thankful that they have always been good, responsible people, and now they have developed their own “wings” to carry them into adulthood.

This is a new stage in their lives, and in mine. I’ve guided and nurtured them. Now, they teach me as much as I teach them.

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IN focus

Sound Doctrine

by Colonel Richard Munn

WESLEYANISM el Wesleyanismo

Dentro de la comunidad protestante del mundo, el Ejército de Salvación forma parte de la familia wesleyana. Los wesleyanos son un grupo de hasta 80 denominaciones diferentes, integrado por un total de 80 millones de personas, en más de 130 países. Todas ellas expresan su fe cristiana a través de la influencia doctrinal de John Wesley, el fundador del Metodismo. ¿Cómo surgió esto? ¿Y qué significa?

William y Catherine Booth, históricamente, fueron fervientes wesleyanos, como lo fueron también la mayoría de los primeros líderes del Ejército de Salvación. Desde el principio, fue su perspectiva lo que diseño nuestro movimiento. Este punto de vista es la roca de donde fuimos tallados.

Los redactores del Manual de Doctrinas del Ejército afirmaron desde el inicio que la teología que seguimos es “claramente en la tradición wesleyana”. Por tanto, es muy importante comprender este punto, puesto que clarifica nuestras creencias y misión.

Si bien, la disciplina mundial de la organización y su calidad optimista son de origen metodista, es la teología wesleyana la que nos impulsa.

Nosotros nos identificamos con las siguientes creencias:  Todas las personas necesitan salvación.  Todas las personas pueden ser salvadas.  Todos los que son salvos pueden saber que el testimonio del Espíritu Santo los salva.  Todos los que son salvos pueden alcanzar la perfección cristiana (santidad).

Al igual que el metodismo, el Ejército nació, no como protesta u oposición contra otra denominación, sino por el espíritu de avivamiento y evangelismo, comenta el teólogo Alan Harley.* En esto, los wesleyanos y nosotros los salvacionistas compartimos las mismas creencias. * El Mayor Alan Harley, está actualmente jubilado y reside en Australia, es profesor, maestro de santidad, orador y tiene un doctorado en teología.

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…the rock from which we are cut.

Within the global Protestant community, The Salvation Army is part of the Wesleyan family.

Wesleyans are a large group of 80 denominations, with 80 million people, in as many as 130 countries. They express their Christian faith through the doctrinal influence of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism.

How did this come about? And what does it mean?

Historically, William and Catherine Booth were ardent Wesleyans, as were most of the early Army leaders. From the beginning, their perspective fashioned us as a movement. That viewpoint is the rock from which we are cut.

Writers of the Army’s Handbook of Doctrine calmly state early on that what follows theologically is “clearly in the Wesleyan tradition.” So, to understand this is important, as it places much of our beliefs and mission in context.

While the Salvationist’s organizational discipline, worldview, and optimistic personality are Methodist in origin, it is the Wesleyan theological ideas that provide our movement’s dynamo.

We resonate with the following:  All people need to be saved.  All people can be saved.  All who are saved can know that the inner witness of the Holy Spirit saves them.  All who are saved can go on to Christian Perfection (Holiness).

Like Methodism, the Army was born, not in protest or in opposition to any other denomination, but in the spirit of revival and evangelism, notes theologian Alan Harley.* In this, Wesleyans and Salvationists are one. * Major Alan Harley, now retired and living in Australia, is a lecturer, holiness teacher, guest speaker, and doctor of theology.

testimony

ON file

God’s Relentless Call

Photo courtesy of Fabi Soto

by Fabi Soto

“ ” … listening isn’t always so easy …

In 2005, my mom received an invitation to attend the Salvation Army corps in Dover, N.J. Although the spiritual effect of that invitation on my family was immediate, my personal walk with the Lord began slowly.

Mom even began to go to church on days other than Sunday and talk about God more often. To me, that was weird.

My family had always been Catholic; we went to church only on Sundays and when there, we sort of “went through the motions.”

In 2006, my corps officers invited me to participate in Youth Councils. I still remember that weekend. On the first night, the youth leader invited people to pray with him who wanted Jesus “to come into their hearts.” That night, I prayed and asked God for forgiveness because I truly wanted to know Him. After I accepted Christ as my Savior, I began to grow in the Lord. I had never believed that having a relationship with God could be so easy. From that day on, I began to listen.

In 2012 at the Candidates Seminar, God called me. But I knew there were many things that I needed to change if I was to be faithful to the Lord. In my panic and subsequent disobedience, I decided to run. I learned that listening isn’t always so easy, especially when God is calling.

That year, I graduated high school and went to Colombia, South America, to study biology. I decided that it was better to follow my own path and my own dreams because how could I, a person who struggled to make decisions and had no idea what to do with my life, be called to such a life of ministry? This

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would be a life of holiness in the Lord.

What I didn’t know at that time was that when God calls you, it doesn’t matter how far you run, the call will never go away.

Life is full of ups and downs, and sometimes it can get hard to understand why God calls us, but I have learned that sometimes all we can do is just place our trust in Him. When I came back from Colombia, good and bad things happened, but God opened just the right doors and I got a job at my corps.

I expressed my calling to my officers, but I was still insecure. After I spoke with my corps officers about my call, they encouraged me to keep seeking the Lord and to trust that He would make His plans clear if I just kept following Him faithfully. God was patient and He provided just the right opportunities that would help me to follow His path.

It was hard to make that decision and the enemy tempted me to stray.

But God pushed me. And before I could leave again, I knew it was time to listen. I accepted my call to officership and God has graced me with support, love, and understanding from people around me.

I am confident that, with His help, I can reach out to people who need His love, and who don’t know how to listen.

That is what I hope to do with my life. I will rest in Him and continue my walk of faith because He has said, “Be still and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” (Psalm 46:10 ASV).

— Fabi Soto, the former youth ministries director at the Dover, N.J., Corps, is now a member of the Joyful Intercessors 2015–2017 session.

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Photos courtesy of Envoy Kenneth Burton

FAITH in ACTION

Envoy Kenneth Burton (back row, far right), a quintet from West Point, and members of the Phil Ramone Orchestra for Children receive applause for their performance.

Great performances

by Warren L. Maye

Young musicians of the Phil Ramone Orchestra for Children, 69 boys and girls, ages 7 to 12, played with a brass quintet from The West Point Military Academy. The event took place at the Greater New York Division’s Harlem Temple Corps.

The quintet, musicians from the renowned West Point Band, delivered a first–rate, 30–minute performance. The band is the United States Army’s oldest musical organization. Staff Sgt. Bill Owens, trumpet; Sgt. 1st Class Joshua Economy, trumpet; Staff Sgt. Drew Mangus, French horn; Staff Sgt. Alaina Alster, trombone; and Staff Sgt. Rachel

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Hertzberg, tuba, comprised the quintet.

The offer to visit Harlem Temple came from Staff Sgt. Alaina Alster, a former music instructor for the children’s orchestra and a member of the quintet. She said, “I saw how hard these youngsters work to learn their instruments and I thought, What an opportunity to provide them with a great musical performance and to let them know that this is a specific job in the United States military and what it takes to become a member.”

Envoy Kenneth Burton, director of the Orchestra, said, “In addition to the entertainment factor, the visit from the

quintet gives our youngsters an excellent opportunity to bond with people in the military and to hear about the life of a musician in military service.”

The quintet played in the Temple’s community center on Wednesday, November 4, of last year. As many as 100 children attended the performance along with members of the Harlem Temple Corps’ staff. After the program, the quintet conducted classes in separate areas of the center and with various sections of the orchestra.

Also last year in December, the orchestra received a prestigious interchurch community service award for its

(Left and above) West Point Academy musicians offer orchestra members valuable one–on–one and group instruction. (Top right) The orchestra receives the Interchurch Center’s coveted Community Service award for 2015.

outstanding work with children.

On February 10 of this year, a woodwind quintet from West Point performed for the students and conducted master classes.

Although students graduate and move on to high school, some of them maintain their membership in the orchestra. After class, they travel back to practice at one of the orchestra’s two rehearsal sites. “The oldest student in the orchestra graduated from PS 206 middle school and now attends Fashion Industries High School,” said Burton.

“However, after school, she returns to the program two days a week.”

Burton, who has a long and colorful history as a bandmaster at Harlem Temple, said, “I am excited for the potential this 2016 season holds!”

PHIL RAMONE’S LEGACY

In November 2011, The Salvation Army launched the Phil Ramone Orchestra for Children, the result of Ramone’s lifelong dream to touch the lives of less fortunate children and to change communities by giving such children access to music education.

On March 30, 2013, the multiple Grammy award–winning music producer passed away. He was most

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noted for being a record producer, recording artists such as Billy Joel, Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Natalie Cole, Carly Simon, James Taylor, and many more.

Ramone, a child prodigy in music, studied violin at the famous Juilliard School in Manhattan. He was also deeply interested in and gifted at using the latest music production technology. In addition to winning 14 Grammy awards and 33 nominations, Ramone was the recipient of a technical Grammy for his many contributions to the science and art of recording.

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Photo by Robert Michell; Right photo coutesy of Mike Riemer.

another chance at

life

by Robert Mitchell

Mike Riemer tears up as he recalls the lives he helped save

during his 30 years with the Mt. Lebanon Police Department near Pittsburgh, Pa. Riemer, 55, retired five years ago and became director of Emergency Disaster Services for The Salvation Army in the Steel City, but he always knew he was on borrowed time, given a family history of kidney disease.

Last spring when his kidneys failed, it was Riemer who needed someone to save his life.

Lieutenant Kate Esker, a Salvation Army officer, stepped up to donate one of her kidneys.

“Every night and every morning, I thank God for the gift I received,” Riemer says.

Today, he looks healthy and energetic.

Riemer, who describes himself as private, announced last February that he was suffering from polycystic kidney disease, where cysts grow on and in the kidney and they eventually shut it down. When he was in his 20s, doctors had told him that his family had a rather tenuous medical history.

“ Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

—John 15:13

GOD’S PERFECT PLAN

“This is now four generations in our family with this disease,” Riemer says. “Three have died from it.”

In late 2014, doctors told him that he might have a year before he would need a transplant, but he actually needed the operation sooner.

“My kidney function continued to deteriorate at a fairly rapid rate,” Riemer says.

By May, Riemer’s kidneys were in total failure and he went on dialysis. He was looking at a five–year wait for a kidney and doctors urged him to hold a benefit dinner to raise awareness.

He was shocked when 17 people came forward offering to help—including Esker.

Esker, 29, grew up in the Philadelphia Pioneer Corps and witnessed a giving spirit that made her want to be a Salvation Army officer—and an organ donor.

“For me, donating a kidney is just another way to give,” she says.

A LONG ROAD (Left) Mike Riemer and Lieutenant Kate Esker (Top) Mike in his days as a police officer and helicopter pilot

Esker and Riemer met five years ago. When she heard about his illness, she went home and told her husband, Lieutenant John Esker, she wanted to get tested to see if she was a match. They prayed for a few weeks before Esker called and asked Riemer,

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Una nueva oportunidad de

vivir

Mike Riemer y la Tenienta Kate Esker demuestran de una manera dramática y alentadora las palabras de Jesús: "Nadie tiene amor más grande que el dar la vida por sus amigos". Riemer, quien padecía de una grave enfermedad al riñón, enfrentó la necesidad de hacerse un trasplante. Él, que trabajó toda su vida como policía en su pueblo de Mt. Lebanon, cerca de Pittsburgh, que salvó varias vidas y que arriesgo la propia a diario por los residentes de la comunidad, se vio enfrentado por primera vez con la realidad de que necesitaba alguien que lo salvara a él.

Esa persona fue la Tenienta Kate Esker, proveniente del Cuerpo pionero de Filadelfia, quien asistió a una cena comunitaria que organizó el propio Riemer, allí accedió a ser la donante. La Tenienta Esker cumplió así su labor de servicio a Cristo, dio todo de sí por salvar a otra persona. La experiencia profundizó su fe y su misión con Dios. Por otra parte, Riemer pasó por un proceso de profundo avivamiento espiritual que lo llevó a identificar el acto desprendido de la Teniente Esker y con su nueva oportunidad la manifestación indudable de Dios en su vida. Él se siente como un hombre que ha vuelto a nacer.

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“

”

I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.

— Philippians 4:13

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“Where do we begin?”

“I always say, ‘if I can help in any way, as a Christian, then I should,’” Esker says.

She underwent extensive testing, including giving 18 vials of blood. Results revealed that she was a match.

“The testing for me took about three months,” she says.

Before the surgery, Riemer would come home from dialysis and quietly sit on his deck to reflect and to pray.

“Just a complete sense of peace came over me,” he recalls. “It was incredible. I’m trying to understand it, but I think that was God’s way of saying that things are going to be all right, one way or another. During this period, my prayer life was amazing.”

GOD’S WORD LIVES

On June 9, the day of the surgery, there was a 5 a.m. prayer session in the chapel at Allegheny General Hospital. Among the people in attendance were Commissioners Eva D. and Israel L. Gaither, former Salvation Army national leaders.

Esker and Riemer say they both clung to Philippians 4:13 for strength, but Kate was especially drawn to John 15:13, which she cites when she and Riemer speak in the community about organ donation awareness.

“That verse has been in my head throughout this whole process,” she says.

John 14:6 was also a comfort to Riemer, as he reflected on giving his life to Christ.

“I really wasn’t sure whether I was going to make it or not,” he says. “I was comforted in the Spirit, knowing that one way or another, I was still going to be OK.” Esker went into surgery first and emerged with no complications. Riemer’s doctor came to tell him he was next.

BETTER THAN EVER

I was pretty nervous, Riemer recalls. “I stopped the surgeon and I said, ‘I prayed for you.’ The doctor reached down and touched my shoulder and with his other hand he reached inside his shirt and pulled out a crucifix. ‘This goes with me into every surgery. You’re going to be fine,’ he said. The feeling that came over me was just unbelievable.

“I was totally relaxed. I was in good hands with the Lord and with this surgeon.”

The next day, Riemer was up and walking the halls and, while he did have a bad reaction to the anti–rejection medicines, today he tells people, “Now I have an incredible life. I feel like Superman.”

Riemer has dropped 28 pounds, and he recently swam 22 laps in a pool. Each week, he tries to bike 10 to 15 miles.

“I don’t feel great, I feel incredibly great,” Riemer says. “Right now, I literally feel like I’m 25 years younger. I’m enjoying life.”

SPIRITUAL AWAKENING

GOD’S AMAZING CREATION

As with Riemer, the experience has deepened Esker’s spiritual life and given her new insights.

“For me spiritually, I think it’s just so amazing how detail– oriented our God is,” she says. “We can survive with less than 100 percent of one kidney. To know that I had two, and that I helped save someone’s life with one, and remain completely healthy, is to me just so interesting.

“Creation isn’t just what we see outside of us, it’s what we also see in us, both physically and emotionally. That’s where I’ve grown. I donated my kidney because God created me to be this way and I was able to do it.”

Riemer likes to use the Greek word kairós (opportune time) in discussing God’s timing. Reimer realized he was slowing down and wanted to leave the police department, but he seriously considered staying to bolster his pension.

SEEING WITH FRESH EYES

Instead, Riemer applied for the EDS position with The Salvation Army—a move that saved his life. He also realizes that the Army often moves officers and Esker could have been reassigned, but she stayed.

“It all worked out. In God’s time and in kairós time,” Riemer says. “I also considered other jobs before coming here. It would have been a lot more money, but I wouldn’t have the kidney I have today.

“There’s no greater gift than saving someone’s life. In the police department, I’ve done that several times. There are people alive today because God had me in the exact position at an exact time. God has truly been alive and working in my life in many different ways. I look back and it’s so crystal clear. It just amazes me.”

Photos by Robert Michell

Esker, who was in the hospital for five days, is completely healthy.

“There’s no real limit for me,” says Esker, who wears a “Donate” lapel button to promote organ donation.

Riemer calls June 9th “my second birthday.” His spiritual life has also been reborn.

“For me, it’s been the most spiritually enriching time of my life,” he says. “I’ve grown exponentially spiritually.”

Riemer says he has considered entering the ministry, but he also likes his current job as EDS director and the changes he can bring to the work (see sidebar). He also is a local school board member.

“I’m trying to wrap my mind around what my purpose is in life,” he says. “One thing is to continue helping people because it has had a profound spiritual effect on me and my family.”

Frank Duncan

The ‘Old College Try’ Mike Riemer’s life has been about giving back. Four years ago, he found a creative way to get area college students involved.

Students from local colleges perform work study and internships with the Salvation Army’s Pittsburgh EDS. Riemer says about 30 students have gone through the program.

The students perform a host of duties, including taking the canteen out to different feeding locations in the city.

“The feeding outreach has unlimited possibilities of helping people and fulfilling our mission in The Salvation Army,” Riemer says. “The public really enjoys it when we come down there with hot coffee, hot chocolate, a hot meal and help them out.”

Frank Duncan, who is working on his master’s in social work at the University of Pittsburgh, does everything from preparing the food to serving it.

“It’s a great opportunity to be working with the population that really needs help,” he says.

Jessica Beebe, a work–study volunteer from Pittsburgh Technical Institute, agreed.

“It’s a great experience, especially the outreach program,” she says.

Not everyone is a college student. Ron Watzman, a retired attorney, volunteers because he read about The Salvation Army’s frugalness with donations.

"I said, ‘I have to volunteer for this organization because it really does good things.’ They do wonderful things,” he says.

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2016 APRIL

13

‘I’m

worth something’

by Robert Mitchell photography by Keri L. Shay

A

bus stops at the Hartley House where homeless men spend their lives. The men prepare to reenter the house and resume their routines, now that a special evening of fun and fellowship has concluded.

Captain Justin Caldwell, the bus driver and corps officer at The Salvation Army in Springfield, Ohio, rises from his seat and closes their night of activities in prayer.

“We love you all and we think about you often,” Caldwell reminds them. After the prayer, the men hug Caldwell as they exit the bus.

Many men say that the love and acceptance they receive during these fellowship nights keep them hopeful while living in a community ravaged by heroin addiction. The thought that someone cares about them and loves them lingers.

Some of the men, such as Larkin Ferguson and Joseph Kibugwa, have been attending worship services at the Salvation Army corps. The Hartley House, a shelter for homeless men, is just a stone’s throw from the corps.

FINDING HIMSELF

Ferguson, a soft–spoken man in his 60s, said that as a homeless person, he had a poor image of himself. As a result, he withdrew from people. But the love he found at the corps helped restore his confidence.

“I came to realize that I am worth something to me, to others, and to God,” he says. “In His eyes, I never was a

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The men from the Hartley House usually go out for pizza and bowling, allowing Captain Justin Caldwell opportunities to build relationships with each of them.

Los hombres del albergue Harley House usualmente salen a comer pizza y a jugar a los bolos. Esto le da la oportunidad al Capitán Justin Caldwell de desarrollar relaciones con ellos.

Soy Valioso Una relación muy productiva se desarrolló desde hace un tiempo entre dos organizaciones vecinas en la ciudad de Springfield, Ohio. Se trata por un lado de Hartley House, un albergue para hombres en situación de calle, y por otro del Cuerpo del Ejército de Salvación de esa ciudad. Todo comenzó cuando Ryan Ray, el director de recursos del Cuerpo, tomó la iniciativa de llevar comida a Hartley House, pues los residentes sólo contaban con alojamiento. Esto marcó el inicio de una relación entre el Cuerpo y Hartley House que llevaría al Capitán Justin Caldwell y a los demás miembros del Cuerpo a organizar una actividad de compañerismo todos los miércoles por la noche.

Invita a los residentes del albergue a salir a comer fuera, a jugar a los bolos e incluso a ir al cine. Es el Capitán Caldwell quien los lleva de ida y vuelta en un autobús que él mismo maneja. Esta experiencia hizo que los residentes de Hartley House se sintieran verdadera y profundamente amados y valorados por los miembros del Cuerpo. También han aprendido a considerar la gente del Cuerpo como la familia que todo ser humano necesita tener. En este artículo relatamos las dramáticas historias de individuos en situación de calle como Larkin Ferguson, Joseph Kibugwa, Herman Gatewood y James St. John. Leeremos cómo ha crecido su auto estima gracias al espíritu de familia que se respira en el Cuerpo y de la que se sienten y son parte. Este espíritu de familia ha logrado acercar a muchos de ellos a la fe cristiana y a la fe en el poder que tiene Jesús de transformar sus vidas.

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

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APRIL 2016

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2016 APRIL

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Larkin Ferguson

worthless person. I needed a way to find out that was true.

I’ve found that way here.”

About a year ago, the Wednesday fellowship night began.

Captain Caldwell, other men from the corps, and residents of Hartley House eat out. And sometimes they go bowling, see a movie, or play miniature golf.

“It was as if God was putting [the idea] on a few people’s hearts at the same time that we should do something for the homeless,” Caldwell says. “We threw some ideas around.”

WHAT ARE WE DOING?

One of the brainstormers was Ryan Ray, the resource director at the corps. Ray remembers taking meals to the Hartley House after a board meeting.

“The woman who took the meals was extremely thankful and she said, ‘We’re usually overlooked.’ I’ll never forget her saying that,” Ray says. “That kind of was on my radar and perked my ears up a little bit from that time on and I just prayed about it.

“God started laying it on my heart that these guys are here in our backyard … and what are we doing to connect with them, to hear their stories, and to bring them to a closer relationship with God?” Caldwell said food had to be part of the plan since at the House the men receive only shelter.

“It’s only one night, but one meal is a big deal for some of these guys,” he says. “It’s also a time for [the guys at the corps] to get away and lift these guys up.”

GETTING ACQUAINTED

Caldwell said another goal was to make a connection with God. “We pray with them and some of them come to church and they go to Home Group,” Caldwell says. “We also have Bible studies that the guys attend. We try to get to know the guys and we’ve made a huge connection with some of them.”

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Captain Evelyn Caldwell

Thanks to a “Strikepoint” grant, the corps purchased a 16–foot inflatable movie screen that can be set up in the gym. It also came with a PlayStation 4, allowing the men to play video games.

Ray recalls that on the first night of the ministry, “the men started asking a lot of questions about God and The Salvation Army.”

“We just wanted to let them know that they’re loved and they’re noticed,” Ray says. “From that, a lot of great conversation just erupted. A lot of guys opened up. They just expressed the need for fellowship even more.

“These guys are hungry and they’re begging for that kind of interaction. This type of ministry goes to the heart and soul of these guys. We’re hoping that Christ becomes the agent of change in their lives.”

A LOVING HOME

Ray said that soon some of the men were coming to the corps.

“That was so exciting because of the people we were going to put around them,” he says. “They accepted, loved, and greeted them. They also showed the men a love that is so foreign to them.

“To the people here at The Salvation Army, all of the tattoos and the roughness—that is not intimidating. It’s not something they see first. They see soul first.”

Ferguson was one of those men who started coming to the corps, and whose life as a sexually abused child traveled down a harrowing road.

As a graphic designer for many years in Madison, Wis., Ferguson found himself unemployed and homeless when the office building where he worked and his apartment building were both sold. When his 21-year-old cat died, things got worse.

“In my eyes, my life came tumbling down pretty quickly,” Ferguson recalls. “I tried to commit suicide. I tried to hang myself.”

Joseph Kibugwa in worship

“

I came to realize that I am worth something to me, to others, and to God. In His eyes, I never was a worthless person. I needed a way to find out that was true. I’ve found that way here.

–Larkin Ferguson

A SIMPLE PRAYER

FINDING OPEN ARMS

A CORPS CONNECTION

A GRATEFUL BUNCH

To end his life, Ferguson tied an extension cord around a clothes rack in his closet and leaned forward. But God had other plans.

“It was the weirdest thing. I was beginning to see stars,” he says. “There was like a star burst exploding in front of my face and I heard a distinct, ‘No.’ And so, I stopped it.”

About a year and a half ago, Ferguson’s sister convinced him to move to Springfield, but life remained the same until he received an invitation to the Wednesday fellowship night.

Ferguson said the first night he attended, Caldwell prayed with the men and told them it was no accident they were there. God had planned the entire thing.

“That really hit home with me,” Ferguson says.

Caldwell prayed the same thing after the men saw a movie and said he hoped they would come to church on Sunday. In June, Ferguson went for the first time.

“I walked into the building and all I knew were the faces from Wednesday night and there were only a handful, but everyone I met shook my hand and welcomed me there,” Ferguson says. “I felt like I was at home. I’ve been going pretty much ever since.

“I have found a home here. My faith has been growing a lot.”

Ferguson attended a summer retreat at Camp SWONEKY and a three–day event in Gatlinburg, Tenn., since coming to the corps. He also left the Hartley House and has a new cat.

“One of my prayers was to have a place of my own and those prayers are getting answered,” he says.

Caldwell said he has seen Ferguson’s relationship with God “reinvigorated.”

“I have no doubt that God sent Larkin to us,” Caldwell says. “I’ve seen God work in Larkin’s life. We’ve met quite a few times and talked and prayed about how God has come through for him.”

”

Joseph Kibugwa, who came to the United States from Tanzania to attend Clark State Community College in Springfield, found a similar experience at the corps. A Christian, he stayed at the Hartley House about a month while looking for a place to stay, but he now comes to the corps and is starting soldier classes.

“The church members are like a family,” he says. “They understand the situation going on with almost every person. You know how you will go to church and no one says, ‘I’m glad you’re here?’

At The Salvation Army, they came up and had a conversation and said they were looking forward to seeing me next week.”

Kibugwa said he enjoys watching movies and playing basketball on fellowship nights, but he also remembers Caldwell telling him that God had a plan for his life.

“They talk about your relationship with God,” Kibugwa says. “I like that the whole issue is about changing lives.”

That’s the case for many of the men. Herman Gatewood said he finds “unity” on Wednesday nights, while for James St. John, it’s “hope.”

“They’re easy to get along with,” St. John says of Caldwell and other people from the corps. “They do this out of their own goodness. They’re taking time from their families to do this.

“I feel like I’m part of a family every time I come out with them because they care. They let you know that too. I have a great time every time.”

Phillip Carlton, a student at Clark State University who has also come to the corps on Sundays, says he hates missing the fellowship night.

“I kick myself when the guys come back and tell me what they did and where they went,” he says. “Going out like this breaks up the monotony.

“It promotes unity, it promotes brotherhood, and it promotes fellowship.”

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2016 APRIL

19

FAITH in ACTION

Candidates Seminar 2016

Coming in, going out DESCRIBING THE CFOT’S MISSION

by Warren L. Maye photography by Keri L. Shay

“The thing that is so different about our training college from other ones is—there’s no gate,” said Commissioner Barry C. Swanson, territorial commander. His remarks concluded a weekend of memorable events as he addressed officers, delegates, and friends attending the Candidates Seminar’s Sunday morning holiness meeting. “You never come here and find closed gates.”

Campus security notwithstanding, Swanson said the appearance of openness signals to people, “No matter who they are, to come on in. We are not afraid of you. Let’s talk about what we do here.”

Swanson said the absence of gates also signals that, at the College for Officer Training, the mission is to go out.

“We who are already here are ready to go, ready to move. We’re not here to stay. We’re here for a season. You learn, you train, you get ready, and you go.”

He said that Salvationists should have an open heart to others because God offers them an open kingdom, even “to strange people; people who are different from us.”

Swanson said that God’s nature is to reach out and to embrace people, rather than to reject them because they are different. “Our human instincts sometimes cause us to separate ourselves from the very people we are called to serve,” he said.

Although we typically live by rules designed to keep us comfortable and safe, Swanson asserted that Jesus wants Salvationists to put their ultimate

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expression of His love above other considerations. “His love comes first. We think in terms of my talents, my skills, and what can Salvation offer me? Rather than asking, ‘God, how can You use me?’”

Swanson, who said that the weekend was a “spiritual highlight” in his life, described God’s love as His remarkable distinction. He then invited people to come to the mercy seat and to pray.

In response to Swanson’s appeal, 60 people came to the platform seeking a deeper relationship with Christ, and 140 people came to become candidates for officership. “See how faithful God is?” he said with outstretched arms. ”A lot of people have come to this mercy seat.

Don’t let this weekend go by without making your move.”

‘TIME TO ACT’ Swanson introduced Majors Linda and Richard Lopez to the crowd, recently appointed assistant candidates secretary and candidates secretary, respectively. Major Richard Lopez thanked divisional and territorial leadership for their support of the annual candidate recruitment campaign and then said to everyone in the room, “Now, it’s time to act upon what the Lord has told you to do.”

(Above) Commissioner Barry C. Swanson, territorial commander, speaks to delegates.

(Above right) He prays at the mercy seat with 200 people who came seeking God’s guidance on their lives and His answers to their prayers.

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2016 APRIL

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Candidates Seminar 2016

A Salvationist Showman

by Robert Mitchell

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APRIL 2016

“Will you content yourselves with sitting in a chapel, week after week, while countless men and women, boys and girls, die and go in to eternity without ever hearing the good news of Jesus Christ?”

At the recent Candidates Seminar, Lt. Colonel Eddie Hobgood asked this question of his audience as he portrayed Joe the Turk, the Salvation Army’s legendary evangelist.

The rhetorical question tested his spectators and himself.

“Every time I say that line, it challenges me,” Hobgood said. I think, Eddie, are you doing everything you can to proclaim the Gospel?”

He also said to listeners, “You’re a Salvationist. And regardless of whether some of these folks here this weekend decide to become officers, you should be proclaiming the salvation story— every day.”

Hobgood has played Nashan Garabedian, better known as “Joe the Turk,” more than 200 times. When asked how he might tailor his portrayal to convince people to become officers, Hobgood offered a thought–provoking response.

“I’m not tailoring my portrayal,” he says. “The message is actually strong and powerful enough. There’s a strong challenge for all of us to stand and carry the message of the flag to this generation. I think the story works into this [candidates’ seminar] perfectly.”

Also at the seminar, Hobgood portrayed Samuel Logan Brengle, the Salvation Army’s iconic apostle of holiness.

“We’re called to live a life of holiness before the world. And I’m a strong believer that, if I’m living like Jesus, people are going to be drawn to that,” Hobgood says. “We desperately need examples of that kind of living and we need officers who live lives of holiness.”

Hobgood and Lt. Colonel Kathy Hobgood are the divisional leaders of the USA Southern Territory’s North and South Carolina Division. Hobgood said that, years ago as divisional youth secretary, he began portraying Joe the Turk. Subsequently, people asked him to reprise his performance at various events.

“I decided I didn’t want to just preach every year,” he recalls.

Initially, Hobgood developed a 10– minute monologue, but through further research, he developed a 45–minute presentation.

“I just fell in love with Joe the Turk,” he says. “For the past three years, I’ve performed extensively across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. I’ve even done it in Argentina—in Spanish.”

Hobgood said he chose to play “Joe the Turk” because he was the “most colorful” of Salvationist icons. A native of Turkey, Garabedian was Armenian and could easily have been insulted by being called “Joe the Turk.” But he “embraced” the name for the sake of saving souls, Hobgood said. “[Garabedian] saw all this as an opportunity to tell the gospel story. He was an amazing evangelist,” Hobgood says. “He was all about telling anybody and everybody about Jesus.”

In high school, Hobgood was a theatrical performer. He said his Salvation Army division was “way ahead of its time” when in 1976 it produced the

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musical “Godspell.”

“I was chosen for the cast and it changed my life,” he says. “Ever since, I’ve had this theater bug.”

When Hobgood became an officer, he thought that his days on the stage were over. “But I’ve been given more opportunities than I would have ever imagined.” He has written musicals about Brengle and about Army founders William and Catherine Booth.

Hobgood said the early days of The Salvation Army were “theatrical,” and he is a strong believer in using the Gospel arts to reach a lost generation.

“There’s always power in preaching,” he says. “There’s always power in music.

But I think there is equal power in theater. I believe God to be a God of props and stories. When you look at the Old Testament, it’s full of them. In the New Testament, Jesus taught in parables and used familiar objects. It’s theatrical.

“Theater is a wonderful medium that draws people in and speaks to some people who would otherwise stay outside the church rather than hear a sermon.”

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Candidates Seminar 2016

‘ God wants to use our generation’

by Robert Mitchell

Colonel Janet Munn

Singing for God’s Glory I give myself away I give myself away So You can use me His name was Chuck Martin and the congregation at the Harlem, N.Y., Temple Corps called him “The Voice.”

Today, Martin’s talent lives on in Cynthia Martin, his daughter, and a first– year cadet. She “wowed” the crowd at this year’s Candidates Seminar with a soulful rendition of William McDowell’s “I Give Myself Away.”

Martin said she was aware that many people in the audience were deciding whether they should become Salvation Army officers.

“When I sing, I’m singing for the glory of God,” Martin says. “I hope the anointing comes down and people will decide that they want to turn their lives over to Him and to do His work.

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“That’s my focus. Whenever I sing, I do it in the hope that somebody will be blessed.”

Martin, a fourth–generation Salvationist, grew up attending the Harlem Temple Corps and listening to her father, who was promoted to Glory in 2011.

“When he sang in church, I paid attention,” she says with a laugh.

Martin, who attended the Newburgh, N.Y., Corps before becoming a cadet, said she remembers the Candidates Seminar that she had attended.

“You can never shortchange the moving of the Spirit on your heart,” she says. “You’ve got to pay attention to that.”

Martin, who also worked in law enforcement, said her decision to become a Salvation Army officer “had been a long time coming” and one she

by Robert Mitchell

initially avoided.

“Coming here [to the College for Officer Training] confirmed something I have always known,” she says. “It’s something that you know on the inside. The Lord can call anyone and at any time.”

Chuck Martin sings at an open–air meeting on 125th Street in Harlem (circa 1970).

cowardice into courage” and offer creative ideas, such as Joe the Turk employed, to reach America’s cities.

“Joe the Turk declared, ‘California for Jesus!’ How about ‘New York for Jesus’?” Munn said to applause.

“How about ‘New Jersey for Jesus’? and ‘New England for Jesus’? and ‘Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Delaware for Jesus’?

“The Lord’s heart burns for our cities, for our communities, and for our nation, and other nations. He desires to use us in our generation just as surely as He used Joe the Turk in his.”

Munn said that while most people in the crowd had surrendered their lives to Jesus Christ, she called on them to

Photo courtesy of the book, Soldiers of Uncommon Valor (Maye, 2008)

The audience at the Friday night Candidates Seminar had just witnessed a powerful drama about the life of Salvationist pioneer Joe the Turk, a courageous evangelist who took Christ’s message to the streets.

Then Colonel Janet Munn, principal of the College for Officer Training (CFOT), told a gym full of potential officers that God is looking for people from the current generation to demonstrate a similar evangelistic spirit.

“Because we believe in who God is, we believe that in this generation God is able to do a new thing and can raise a generation of people—of Salvationists—who are sold out to Jesus Christ,” Munn said.

Munn said God would “turn our

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“surrender more deeply than ever.”

“There is more, there is more, there is more … allowing Him to capture us with His passion, with His beauty, with His courage, and with His creativity,” Munn said.

As she called people forward to the mercy seat to pray about their futures, Munn called on Salvationists “to fight for justice, to champion the cause of the oppressed, and to stand up for righteousness and for justice.”

“Who knows how God wants to use people in this room?” said Munn. “Say, ‘God, use me in my generation. I don’t know what it’s going to look like, but I give myself to You. Not because of who I am, but because of who You are. I give myself away for Your purposes.’”

Cadet Cynthia Martin

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Candidates Seminar 2016

“

… for the sake of others.

–Colonel Janice Howard

Candidates Seminar delegates gather in the College for Officer Training lecture hall. During the weekend, the hall served as a place to access instruction and information, as well as to share in heartfelt praise & worship to God.

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”

Being ‘called’

by Hugo Bravo

On Saturday, seminar activities included a unique “Round Robin Rotation” style of sessions. Session leaders offered insight into the roles, challenges, and spiritual practices of Salvation Army officers. Seven officers presented five sessions. Seminar delegates rotated from room to room, taking in each presentation and then moving on to the next one. Spanish–speaking delegates received translation assistance as needed.

Major James Foley, social ministries secretary, and Major Sue D. Foley, financial secretary, spoke on how being an officer can influence family life. They stressed the importance of maintaining healthy relationships and emphasized the need to keep jobs of the ministry in perspective rather than let them overshadow the role one may have as a parent.

“It is easy to eat, sleep, and breathe Salvation Army and let the pressures

he said, smiling.

Lt. Colonel Donald Lance, secretary for business administration, and Lt. Colonel Renee Lance, Pathway of Hope coordinator, talked about the corps officer as an executive and as the chief public relations officer and fundraiser for the corps.

Establishing relationships with local and state officials is crucial to learning how to serve a community. “You’re almost expected to be an expert on the community by your second day on the job,” said Lt. Colonel Donald Lance.

Lt. Colonel Renee Lance talked about how an officer should integrate both a social and a spiritual ministry, and how the Army is bridging social services and corps ministry.

“That’s what William Booth wanted— to minister to both the body and soul,” said Lance.

Colonel Janice Howard, designated to be the new territorial secretary for communications, concluded the Round Robin sessions by talking about a topic

Photo by Hugo Bravo

dominate every thought,” said Major Sue Foley, who in her first appointment lived next door to her corps. The Foleys said they sometimes found themselves taking work home.

Major James Foley said, “Make sure to separate family time. Schedule meals at the table with your children. Play with them. Make time for prayer and devotions. After all, you will be the first ones from whom they learn about God.” Colonel Steven Howard, territorial secretary for personnel, talked about the expectations that come with being an officer. He said that such expectations come first from a covenant with God, rather than from the one an officer signs with The Salvation Army.

“It is a pact that says you will put God above anything,” says Howard.

“You are being called to proclaim the Good News—that God sent His Son to live and die for us.”

Major James LaBossiere, designated to be the next territorial program secretary, compared the role of a corps officer (pastor) to that of Jesus, who described “a good shepherd.” Just as a shepherd cares for his flock, LaBossiere said, so an officer is responsible for providing pastoral care to both converted and unconverted people.

“A corps officer is responsible for the spiritual welfare of everyone who appears on the corps records, from the highest ranking officer to the youngest kid who might attend sports programs and tutoring. Sometimes the need for pastoring can come at a completely unexpected but divinely appointed moment. We didn’t make it happen or expect it, but we represent Christ in that moment.”

LaBossiere said that his roles may come with surprises, but one thing remains constant. “When people introduce me as their pastor, I feel I’m at my best. That feeling doesn’t ever change,”

that could benefit any believer of Christ.

“Spiritual formation is the process of being conformed to the spirit of Christ for the sake of others. And it is a process, not a journey,” said Howard.

“General André Cox, international leader of the Salvation Army, is still being conformed to the spirit of Christ. The Pope is still being conformed, and I myself am certainly not done being conformed.”

Spiritual disciplines are an important part of one’s spiritual formation, said Howard. “It puts us in a place where God can change our lives.” She suggested to the delegates that, next time they pick up their Bible, they read Scripture out loud.

Howard said, “Take a portion and read it over until a word or phrase pops out at you. Read it one more time, and then ask the Lord, why? Why does this apply to me now?

“When you see that connection, know that it is the Lord who is calling you to action. He is directly inviting you to be in His presence.”

Colonel Janice Howard conducts a ‘Round Robin Rotation’ session on the topic of spiritual formation.

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2016 APRIL

27

ON file

wholly living

My sacred space

by Matt Hodgson

My life is chaotic.

Home life is crazy—children, toys, tubby–time (that would be the bath), dinner, calendars, dishes, and vacuuming.

Not to mention the “other” work—meetings, deadlines, calendars, working with the team, and office politics.

Can you relate?

With all of that going on, I often wonder, when is there time for a quiet moment with God? We’re told that we need it, but for me, it’s been difficult to find. However, I may have stumbled on a sacred space where I’m assured to have some downtime—in my car.

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APRIL 2016

Let me explain.

I’m a commuter. Traveling from home to work can take 45 minutes to slightly more than an hour, depending on traffic. So instead of spending that time listening to Adele’s “Hello” on the radio for the 100th time, I’ve been using the time instead to connect with God. Connection can happen in different forms.

Sometimes connection happens as I pray in the silence. Amid all of life’s noises and distractions, I’ve found that I can take time in my car to enjoy the quiet. If you try this, please keep your eyes on the road.

I turn off my radio and my cell phone. Then I thank God for who He is and for what He’s done. I ask Him to lead me throughout the day. Or I simply

take an opportunity to repeat a breath prayer, such as, “O Lord, show me Your way.” Another strategy that works for me is the Jesus prayer, “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” This manner of quiet reflection has been a great way for me to spend time with God. Other times, I find that a podcast (a digital audio file made available on the Internet for downloading) is spiritually beneficial.

There are times when I want to hear a good sermon. Tons of churches have recorded them. Tim Keller’s sermons are recorded. You can also follow most large churches, such as Willow Creek Community Church or Imago Dei Community church. The Salvation Army has its share of sermon podcasts. For

Detoxifying

Finding a ‘place’ part three of a five–part series

by Major Lauren Hodgson

Your SOUL

CREATE YOUR SACRED SPACE Podcasts to drive by: find these on itunes.apple.com T eachings from The Salvation Army on Staten Island in NYC

by Lieutenant Stephen Mayes

 Pray–As–You–Go Jesuit Media Initiatives and this one at Gospelinlife.com  The sermons of Timothy Keller

instance, the Staten Island, N.Y., Corps podcast with Lieutenant Stephen Mayes.

I also enjoy a podcast called Pray– As–You–Go, which is produced by Jesuit Media Initiatives. It’s a 15–minute podcast set to music that leads you through Scripture, prayer, and reflection.

Other great podcasts include stories or interviews or Bible reading plans. All are ways in which God can speak to you.

If you’re like me and find it hard to carve out time to spend in God’s presence, maybe your commute can be the place where God meets with you. Or plan to enjoy His presence while on a walk, while you workout, or while sitting on the couch, if that’s your speed.

If you desire to create a sacred space in your car, do it wisely!

Safe travels and God’s blessings!

Simplicity is certainly a spiritual discipline that is lacking in this fast–paced, materialistic world. There’s always a lot going on, and many of us seem to be just a few steps from chaos or crisis.

We have so much stuff in our schedules, in our minds, and in our lives, it’s no wonder that so much gets lost.

Here are some interesting statistics about time spent retrieving lost items: • The average American spends one year of his or her life looking for lost or misplaced items (US News and World Report).

• On average, we spend six minutes looking for our keys in the morning (IKEA).

• The typical office worker wastes 150 hours a year—almost an entire month—searching for lost information (Forbes ASAP).

Yes, we have too much stuff. And with all of that comes the likelihood of us misplacing some of it.

The same can be said about finding a place for our soul. If we do not find a sacred space for it, we risk losing it.

Finding a place for our soul takes both time and space.

TIME It’s helpful to ask yourself, what is my most productive time of the day? If you’re a morning person, you should strive to be with God at the beginning of your day. If you’re a night owl, then your time with the Lord could happen just before bed. Chiseling out time during lunch or after school or after work can also be options.

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SPACE Consider designating a space in your home (or elsewhere) that will become your dedicated sacred space.

•A place to sit – that will help you center your thoughts on being with Him. “For thus said the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: In returning to Me and resting in Me you shall be saved; in quietness and in trusting confidence shall be your strength…"

(Isaiah 30:15, AMP) •L ight for the task – A reading light is a must for your time with Him. “By your words I can see where I’m going; they throw a beam of light on my dark path. I’ve committed myself and I’ll never turn back from living by your righteous order.” (Psalm 119:105 MSG) •A necessary spot – Where is that spot to lay The Word, to place a pen, and to empty your hands and lap of all the things that will be needed for your time with Him? “A place for everything, everything in its place” (Benjamin Franklin).

•A place to gather resources – everything you’ll need for your time with God. This way, you don’t have to spend time hunting down the tools for your quiet time with Him. “This is the power of gathering: it inspires us, delightfully, to be more hopeful, more joyful, more thoughtful; in a word, more alive” (Alice Waters).

Today, consider finding your place by establishing your sacred time and space.

It’s all part of the process of detoxifying your soul.

2016 APRIL

29

ON file

unity

‘God rules, I assist’

Photos by Susan Magnano

by Lieutenant Seoyoung Lim

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APRIL 2016

After being ordained as officers of The Salvation Army, the most noteworthy part of the Appointment Service for my husband and me was hearing, “Lieutenants Lim, you are going to the Montclair, N.J., Corps—as assistant officers.”

My feelings were mixed. As members of our graduating session, we were one of the rare cases when a married couple is appointed as assistant officers. Typically, married couples are appointed as commanding officers. I thought, did we not give an impression to the leaders that we could be trusted enough? Was it a language barrier? I felt somewhat embarrassed.

I had forgotten that the Lord had made that decision and He was ordering our steps.

And at the Montclair Corps, our relationship with the people became an unalterable treasure and the foundation for our future in ministry. God foresees and He prepares!

After a busy year of ministry as assistant officers, my husband and I received our second marching orders. And our divisional commander notified us even before the appointment was posted as a bulletin.

Once again, we were puzzled. I said, “I think we heard it wrong, let’s check again when the bulletin comes out!” In May, we looked for our new appointment on the dispatch. Yes, it was the Kearny Corps—not a Korean Corps, not a small corps, and not as assistants—but as the commanding officers!

At that moment, the stars on my uniform epaulets felt heavier. I thought, would corps members be shocked that their new officers are Korean?

I had already decided to do my best for the corps members’ salvation and faith.

When they had some issues, I repented if my prayers were lacking in God’s eyes. I learned how to fight spiritual battles—on my knees. I learned to do as God does.

When my people cried, I cried with them;

하나님이 일하시고 나는 거들 뿐. when they were happy, I was happy too.

My mother–in–law, a retired Lt. Colonel, always said, “When you try to be too comfortable in ministry, corps members get tired, but when you get tired from doing ministry, your corps members stay comfortable.”

Realizing that I needed God, I sought Him. And every time I did, I experienced His mercy.

For instance, when we arrived in Kearny, the air conditioning needed fixing.

The cost was estimated at $6,000. We noticed that, every day, the driver of a heating and air–conditioning company would enjoy parking his van—at our site.

So, we asked him to take a look at our unit. He fixed it—free of charge.

To renew our children’s program, we wanted to invite more kids. As our clients came to our food pantry, we greeted them, one by one, and introduced their family to the program. Every week as they visited the corps, the program grew. We now have 60 kids.

When the lack of funds threatened to affect our Thanksgiving food distribution, we discussed the problem with our advisory board members. They reached out to service clubs, teachers’ associations, and individuals. Board members raised contributions that equaled four times more than what we actually needed.

During the kettle season, the community saw me in my uniform. They saw my shield. These images are persuasive and effective tools that make it easy for me to garner respect and to confidently ask for help on behalf of people in need.

When I was appointed to the Kearny Corps, many people said to me, “I have attended the corps, please take good care of the people there.” I can dare to do so because ... God rules, and I assist.

“임부위 동부인, 여러분이 갈 곳은..” 임관 후 임

우리들은, 교회 주차장에 불법주차한 동네 에어

명 예배에서 가장 흥미진진한 부분은 바로 고대

컨 수리공에게 무턱대고 주차만 하지 말고, 우리

하던 임지 발표일 것이다. 남편과 나는 동기 부부

에어컨 좀 한번 봐 달라 하니, 6천불 견적을 받아

들 중 흔치않게 담임사관이 아닌 부사관으로 발

놓은 에어컨을 무료로 고쳐주었고, 어린이 프로그

령을 받았다. 당시에 나는 ‘아, 우리는 인사 결정

램 개편 후, 어디서 아이들을 찾나 고민하던 차에

권자에게 확신을 주지 못했구나, 언어의 장벽 때

영문 푸드팬트리에 오는 지역주민 하나하나에게

문이었을까?’ 하는 마음이 들었다. 내가 간과했

인사하며 프로그램을 알리자 매주 영문의 문턱을

던 것은, 결정을 내리는 것은 그 분들이더라도, 그

넘는 아이들이 늘어나 60여명의 아이들이 출석하

분들의 결정을 인도하는 것은 하나님이라는 사실

였고, 영문 재정 위기로 추수감사절 음식 나누기

이었다. 당시엔 쑥스러울 일이었는지 모르겠지만,

가 어려워졌을 때 자문위원회의 도움으로 서비스

지금 생각하면 몽클레어 영문에서의 배움과 경

클럽, 교사연합, 개개인들에 연락하여 필요한 금

험, 사람 관계는 우리에겐 기초와 토대이자 돈 주

액의 4배에 달하는 금액을 모금하였으며, 개인으

고도 살 수 없는 보물 같은 것이었다 - 앞서 행하

로라면 용기내지 못했을 나는 자선냄비 기간 동

시고, 준비하시는 나의 하나님!

안 군복을 방패삼아 자존심 대신 자신감으로 선

나름 바쁘게 보냈다고 생각되었던 부사관 1년 기

택하여, 지역사회의 필요를 위해 요청하고, 설득

간을 보내고, 우리는 2년차 사관으로서 2번째 임

하는 능력을 키웠다.

지를 받게 되었다. 공식발표 이전에 지방장관님에

커니 영문으로 부임 받고 많은 사람들에게서 “

게서 임지통보를 받고서는 남편과 나는 얼떨떨한

내가 출석했던 영문이다, 잘 부탁한다.” 라는 말

마음으로, “우리가 잘못 들은 것 같다, 공지가 나

을 들었다. 내가 감히 무슨 일을 할 수 있겠는

면 우리가 어디 가는 건지 다시 한 번 확인해보

가? 다만 하나님이 일하시고 나는 거들 뿐이다.

자!” 하였고, 실제로 5월 전근발표에 우리의 이름

커니 영문이 지역사회의 열린 문이 되어 하나님

을 제일 먼저 확인하였다. ‘Kearny 영문이라니!

의 구원의 역사를 감당하는 것, 구세군이 있어

그 곳은 한인 영문도 아니고, 작은 영문도 아니고,

마땅할 곳이 되는 것, 그것이 커니 영문을 품은

게다가 이번엔 부사관이 아니라 담임 사관이네!’

나의 비전이다.

— Lieutenants Hwang and Seoyoung Lim are the Kearny, N.J., Corps commanding officers

하시고, 문을 열어주시는 하나님을 만났다. 부

왠지 내 어깨에 달린 별들의 무게가 더 무거워지

– 부위 임서영 (Kearny 영문 담임사관)

는 느낌이었다. 교인들에게도 한국인 담임사관 이 참 생소하고 충격적이었을지 모르지만, 나는 이 사람들의 구원과 믿음을 위해 최선을 다하 겠다고 마음먹었다. 교인들에게 무슨 일이 생 기면 내 기도가 부족한 탓이지는 않았나 회개 하게 되었고, 영적 싸움은 진정 무릎으로 하는 것이구나! 하고 느꼈다. 그들이 울면 나도 울었 고, 그들이 행복하면 나도 행복했다, 하나님도 이러하시겠구나 생각하며 말이다. 작년 봄 부정령으로 은퇴하신 어머님께서는 “ 네가 편안하면 교인이 힘들고, 네가 힘들면 교 인이 편한 것이다..”하고 말씀하셨었다. 나의 힘 으로 할 수 있는 것은 없으니, 나는 구하고, 찾 고, 두드릴 뿐인데, 그 때마다 채워주시고, 찾게 임 후 고장 난 에어컨으로 더운 여름을 보냈던

Para leer este testimonio en español, visite saconnects.org/enespanol

great moments

Photos by Siran Farrar

ON file

Celebrating a centenarian!

Lt. Colonel Thomas (Tommy) Gorman “Tommy,” as he’s affectionately known to family and friends, walks into the gymnasium at the Asbury Park, N.J., Corps with a pep in his step that would be the envy of most 50–year– olds. He flashes a smile that melts every heart in the room. He has just turned 100 years old. And his nearest and dearest are going to celebrate this milestone rather than let it slip by unnoticed.

As Tommy sits in the huge armchair lovingly placed in the center of the room, guests rise to applaud him. He smiles once more and resigns himself to the fact that, at this magical moment, he’s the center of attention.

Thomas Gorman was a member of “The World for God” session of Salvation Army cadets (1935–1936). During a career that spanned 43 years, he served

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by Siran Farrar

in 20 appointments. He also served as a member of the New York Staff Band (NYSB), of which he’s the oldest alumnus.

In September of 1979, Gorman retired as a lt. colonel in Asbury Park, N.J. Today, he attends the corps faithfully, still drives himself to worship, and sings with the songsters every week.

In recognition of Gorman’s longMajors Barbara and Carl Carvill join Lt. Colonel standing relationship with the NYSB, Tommy Gorman during his celebration. some current members offered a little music for the celebration. They preother retired officers, corps officers past sented a special prerecorded vocal and present, and friends, Tommy was arrangement of “Happy Birthday.” presented with a personal letter from When I asked him what it meant for General André Cox, international leader him to have representatives from the of The Salvation Army. Gorman listened NYSB at his party, he said, “I’m having intently as the letter was read aloud. As a struggle —I don’t usually have a tears of joy slipped down his cheeks, struggle. I’m a little emotional.” the sound of applause and cheers for Surrounded by loving family members, this centenarian filled the room.

Commissioning 2016 June 10-12 | Hershey, PA

Led by

Commissioners Barry C. & E. Sue Swanson Special Guests

COMMISSIONERS dawn & Merle HEATWOLE AND

Livestream Event www.saconnects.org #MessengersOfLight The Salvation Army Crestview Conference Center, West Nyack, NY

SEPTEMBER 12–14

saconnects.org

#SAMS2016

for more information

Colonels F. Bradford & Heidi Bailey

“

I got into it slowly just to see how it worked, and then found them to be so absolutely reliable, I kept adding to the number of gift annuities I have yearly.

- Larry Hollander

”

We Couldn’t Agree With You More, Larry.

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

It is an honor to have the trust of Salvation Army Gift Annuity donors, like Mr. Hollander, and it gives us great satisfaction to know they are pleased with the way this gift opportunity meets their needs for income and for putting their money where their values will be reinforced for generations in the future.

Our Gift Annuity can provide 4 Fixed Payments for Life

4 A Charitable Deduction

4 A Solid Rate of Return Based on Age*

4 Peace of Mind & Accomplishment

* e.g., at age 75 the payment rate is 5.8% and at age 85 the rate is 7.8%

For further information, please contact: The Salvation Army, Department of Special Gifts 440 West Nyack Road, West Nyack, NY 10994 (845) 620-7297 16PG4SA104