Southern Spirit JUN 2022 - Vol 38 Issue 3

NEW TERRITORIAL LEADERS ANNOUNCED FOR THE USA SOUTHERN TERRITORY

The General announced that Colonels Kelly and Donna Igleheart, currently serving as chief secretary and secretary for women’s ministries in the USA Western Territory, will assume the role of territorial leaders for the USA Southern Territory effective September 1.

Kelly and Donna Igleheart were born and raised in Western Kentucky. They met as teenagers and soon committed themselves to each other and to the Lord. The Salvation Army became their shared church home and formed the basis of their spiritual journey.

The Iglehearts entered the College for Officer Training in the USA Southern Territory from Owensboro, Kentucky and were commissioned in 1992 in the Followers of Jesus Session. Together they served ten years as corps officers in Louisville (South), Kentucky and Hattiesburg, Mississippi. This was followed by appointments as divisional youth leaders in the National Capital and Virginia Division (NCV). Staying in NCV, Colonel Kelly was appointed as the general secretary while Colonel Donna served as secretary for Women’s Ministries. From there the Iglehearts were appointed to territorial headquarters in the USA Southern Territory as territorial youth leaders, then later to lead the program section.

Their first adventure outside of their home territory was in 2015 when they were appointed as the chief secretary and territorial secretary

for Women’s Ministry in the Southern Africa Territory. Their journey in Africa left an indelible impression upon their hearts and ministry. Completing their appointments there in 2020, they were transferred to the Western Territory in July of the same year where Colonel Kelly was appointed as chief secretary and Colonel Donna served as secretary for Women’s Ministries.

The Iglehearts have three daughters who are all married to wonderful men of God. Two of the couples are serving as officers in the Southern Territory and the third couple works with the Army in various ministries. The Iglehearts’ pride and joy are the blessing of eight sensational grandchildren. They enjoy traveling, photography and spending time with family and friends.

Southern Youth Leaders Garner Inspiration from 2022 EQUIP Conference

BY BRAD ROWLAND

In late April, hundreds of youth leaders from across The Salvation Army’s USA Southern Territory came together for a week of inspiration and education at the 2022 EQUIP Conference. The gathering, held in Atlanta, began with an intriguing slate of pre-conference offerings before centering on a trio of general sessions and a bevy of educational breakouts.

Before the official conference began, dozens of individuals took part in four pre-conference tracks, including a young adult forum, Safe from Harm training, a track for divisional youth leaders, and a gathering for Boys & Girls Clubs representatives under the “Better Together” umbrella. In addition, pre-conference attendees kicked off the week with an elegant Sunday evening gala, celebrating what would be a productive and beneficial week.

Monday evening’s general session featured musical worship from transMission, the Southern Territory’s contemporary worship outfit, and a conversation with Jim Clark, president and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Colonel Ralph Bukiewicz engaged Clark in an inspirational back-and-forth, with Clark congratulating

attendees on their meaningful work and indicating that the partnership between The Salvation Army and Boys & Girls Clubs allows for “taking both of our strengths and putting them together, making a forced multiplier to serve kids in need.”

Later, Major Al Newsome, divisional commander in Georgia, delivered the keynote address, reminding youth leaders that “if you’re really going to talk to people, you need to get down in the dirt sometimes.”

“If we’re entertaining young people and not connecting with them, we’re doing something wrong,” Major Newsome said. “Jesus did not come to entertain. He came to teach us how to

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RAISE Launches A Strategic Plan for Youth Ministry

BY BRAD ROWLAND

In conjunction with the 2022 EQUIP Conference, the Territorial Youth Department announced the launch of RAISE, described as a strategic plan for youth ministry under the banner of a theme verse of Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” RAISE is not a new program, however, but rather a call to refocus already active efforts in an aim to cultivate a new and overarching framework for ministry in the USA Southern Territory.

Drawing on The General’s Call to Mission for Youth, extensive research, and oversight from territorial administration, RAISE centers on three tenets: evangelism, discipleship, and leadership development. These tenets coalesce as part of a broader purpose, and RAISE also deploys key strategies including intentionality, extensive training, qualitative analysis, a focus on the field, contextual work, and integral collaboration.

“RAISE is not a program,” said Major Cheryl Gilliam, territorial youth secretary. “It is not THE answer. It’s a strategy that removes barriers and simplifies youth ministry moving forward.”

Within the evangelism pillar of RAISE, youth ministry is charged to be Christ-centered, connected, hospitable, and well-reported. RAISE is also in place to center discipleship practices around obedience, appropriate instruction, and the goal to be relational. In additional, leadership development includes adaptable ministry, recruiting, mentoring, and consistent, regular work, as well as targeted youth leadership development that is practiced, supportive, and expansive with intentional equality.

Overall, RAISE also stresses the importance of removing the focus from programming itself and placing it on the sharing of the gospel.

“When I go to a steakhouse, I care about the steak, not the plate that it’s on,” said Major Matthew Satterlee, national youth secretary.

“Similarly, we should care more about the gospel that we are presenting more than the program through which it is administered. Sometimes, we get too concentrated on the plate - the program. Let’s focus on the steak.”

Local units are charged with creating a RAISE Strategic Plan report each year, with that document acting as a centralized organizational piece for RAISE. This brings a comprehensive evaluation of youth activities as a unit across the age spectrum, with six steps from prayer and collaboration through plan completion, meeting with divisional representation, reflection on the overall process, and the revisitation of the report on an annual basis.

“For this plan to succeed, we know that two crucial elements must be that everything we do is bathed in prayer and that our trust in Him to supply our needs is unwavering,” said Majors Tim and Cheryl Gilliam as part of the RAISE launch. “So, let’s meet God where He is already engaged in a life-changing mission. Let’s join our hearts with His and be united in love for every boy and girl, young man and young woman we meet. Let’s take Christ into the darkest corners of our communities where young people’s cries for help often go without an answer. Let’s fight. Let’s fight. Let’s fight this battle for the salvation of future generations, knowing that Christ’s final victory is already won.”

live… Let’s not miss this connection. They need to see Jesus.”

The opening general session also included the official launch of “RAISE,” a strategic plan for youth ministry in the Southeast that aims to get back to the basics by raising aims to provide a new and fresh perspective, utilizing existing ministries and introducing brand new initiatives that can be targeted specifically for optimal use in varied communities. The tenets of the new initiative are evangelism, discipleship, and leadership development, with an expansive viewpoint on what can be achieved in Salvation Army youth ministry.

Over the course of the general sessions, representatives from the territorial youth department delivered RAISE awards, honoring phenomenal local work in three communities. Sheila Livingston, territorial Christian education director, was also honored with a “legacy” award. In addition, the Youth Down South Podcast held a live recording session featuring a panel discussion of divisional youth leaders, and farewelling divisional youth secretaries received acknowledgement and thanks for their crucial work. Michael Gurian and Mark Matlock also delivered powerful and educational messages as keynote speakers, appealing to both the heart and mind.

Across three days, breakout sessions featured critical and targeted work. Examples of breakout topics include classroom management, young adult ministry, tools for diminishing conflict, trauma-informed care, evangelism, and the use of best practices. Offerings included 20 different classes, with the chance to dive deep into specific topics or survey a wide range over the course of multiple sessions.

At the conclusion of the final session on Wednesday morning, groups gathered to discuss how leadership is at work in communities, while sharing takeaways from the week in a fashion that can be useful locally. These gatherings were divvied up by division, with a time of prayer to follow to bless the gathering and its future-facing impact.

Commissioner Willis Howell, territorial commander, concluded the week by focusing on James 1:22 (EHV). “Be people who do what the word says, not people who only hear it. Such people are deceiving themselves.” He shared encouraging words, but also delivered a reminder of the power that the knowledge garnered during the week can carry.

“Everybody here got tools from this week,” said Commissioner Howell. “What are you going to do with the wonderful tools you’ve been given? Are the tools just going to sit, or will they be used, leveraged, and taken advantage of to make a difference? The tools you’ve been given, wonderful tools, are meant to be used, not placed on a shelf.”

Commissioner Howell also challenged attendees to use the tools in a wise, godly manner, focusing also on the critical work that lies ahead.

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“I encourage you to take the tools you’ve been given and what you’ve discovered. Now that you have them, use them,” Commissioner Howell said. “Find out how they work best in order to make the difference we’re all looking for. Use them to help us raise up a generation that sees and behaves differently. Use the tools you’ve been given to raise up Christ followers who can accomplish our mission. Use the tools you’ve been given to change the world, starting with your community and your neighborhood.”

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Citrus County Corps Inaugural Music Celebration

BY MAJOR STAN CARR

Taking its cue from Scripture in Ephesians 5:19-20, “Sing and make music in your hearts to the Lord!”, The Salvation Army’s Citrus County (Florida) Corps held the first Music Celebration Sunday in its 19-year history.

Special guests for the event on Sunday, May 1 were guest conductor and preacher Christopher Priest of Leesburg, Florida and featured soloist and assistant divisional music director Darryl Crossland of Clearwater, Florida.

The day’s events held a multifold purpose. First and foremost was the aim to praise God through music and inspire others to seek Him first in their lives. Second, the celebration sought to recognize the 15-year contribution of corps music ministry by retiring Bandmaster Major Ruth Draper, and the passing of the baton of the corps band to Lt. Colonel John Roy Jones. In addition, it was announced that The Salvation Army Citrus County School of Performing Arts will be opening in the near future. The celebration was focused on being a means of bringing those who had not returned to in-person worship back to the corps and to encourage new people to join the current congregation.

Each of the stated purposes was met or exceeded during the celebration. The morning began with the band playing of the rousing tune “I want to sing it, I want to shout it, I want to tell you all about it, the love of Jesus.” The tone was set and the morning proceeded in praise to our Savior Jesus Christ.

After introductions and a wonderful presentation of Scripture by Major Nancy Fabal and Major Donna Smith, a new mixed chorus made its inaugural appearance singing the theme, “Sing and Make Music,” accompanied by the corps band. The chorus later presented an arrangement of “Jesus Saves Me Now,” arranged by Terry Camsey.

The band presented two marches, William Himes’ “God’s Children” and Norman Bearcroft’s “Vanguard” as well as a thoughtful rendition of James Anderson’s “Jesus Loves Me.” The latter featured the two youngest members of the band (Nelson and Ruth Peters) playing the duet of the familiar and beloved tune.

Solos performed by Crossland included a William Himes arrangement of “So Glad” and “Someone Cares” from the Gowans and Larsson Musical Take Over Bid. Both were preformed to the delight and encouragement of all gathered.

Major Hank Harwell, corps officer, presided over the recognition of Major Draper’s contribution for the past 15 years

of pioneering and nurturing the music ministry of the corps before handing the baton to Lt. Colonel Jones to lead the music program into the future.

In his remarks following this time of recognition, Jones announced the intent of the corps to launch a School of Performing Arts as an outreach to the young, and not so young, of Citrus County. He shared that the reach and the impact of the school will be limited only by the resources of instruments and instructors at our disposal while expressing excitement on the future initiative.

The final portion of the celebration was a tribute to Generals John Gowans and John Larsson for their immense contribution to Salvation Army music. Priest related history of these two officers being brought together, meeting for the first time at the corps of Priest’s parents, and the resulting musical combination that brought The Salvation Army not only new music but musicals that in many ways enhanced its ministry.

The tribute included insights and presentation on a few of their now well-known songs; “That’s the Spirit,” “Burning, Burning,” “Someone Cares,” “Kneeling in Penitence,” and “When the Glory Gets into Your Soul.” Also included was a marvelous reenactment of the scene from Take Over Bid in which the wise, old janitor encounters a group of young people from the corps wanting to “take over” The Salvation Army. Lt. Colonel Jones, along with four teens from the Citrus County Corps, delivered a powerful rendition of the necessity of allowing Christ to take over our lives from the inside so that we can effect change on our world. The celebration concluded with the Gowans and Larsson sung benediction “For Thine is the Kingdom.”

Testimony: God’s Work in My Life

BY DANIEL SORIANO

Divorced in December 2008, I entered the United States with my five-year-old son, Daniel, who is now 18 and about to start college in Mexico. In 2009, I heard about a place teaching Taekwondo (TKD). I was interested instantly because the class tuition was low compared with other martial arts studios. So, we went to The Salvation Army Houston International Corps to attend the corps programs where Captains Peter and Youngsun Kang, who were soldiers at the time, taught Taekwondo and piano lessons respectively. Captain Peter kindly got me the information about TKD class and introduced himself as the instructor. I felt confident enough to enroll my son in his class. He also encouraged me to participate in the class. I didn’t plan on learning TKD, but I found myself taking classes along with my son. I was shy at first to practice with little kids, but I got used to it and started enjoying his classes because they were very fun and easy. Now, I am a second degree black belt in TKD, and teach TKD to community children. I also enrolled my son in Captain Youngsun’s piano class.

Later, Captain Peter invited me to attend Sunday worship service. My son and I finally accepted. I wasn’t sure why I was there. I came out of curiosity and wanted to do something different during the weekend with my son. I found myself really enjoying the music—the songs, everyone singing and praying—everything was different from what I experienced in the church that I used to attend. I grew up in a Catholic family and never enjoyed a worship service as much as I did that Sunday. I didn’t believe that people could pray with such intensity. That morning I repented for judging them and for not believing that this kind of faith could be possible. Going to church that Sunday was one of the most important decisions I’ve made in my life. The third time that I attended worship service, I suddenly stood up holding my son’s hand. I remember they were singing “Amazing Grace.” I couldn’t understand at that moment the meaning of the song lyrics in English, but I felt wonderful, and indescribable peace came upon me. I closed my eyes and raised my hands crying. It was the most beautiful moment I have ever had. That was the moment I met Jesus personally. The Holy Spirit touched me, anointed me, and life changed.

After accepting Jesus as my Savior, I saw everything in a new light—my perspective on life changed to only fixate on God. I embarked on a new Christian path, where I met wonderful people such as Majors Na, the officers at Houston International at the time, my current pastors Captains Kang, and many others who, through the Holy Spirit, helped me follow my calling. In mid 2011, Major Sujung Na invited me to take a soldiership class, and in May 2012, I was enrolled as a soldier. This changed me for the better and helped me get rid of my bad drinking habits. Since then, I have participated in community programs like the Angel Tree, kettles, food panty distribution, Taekwondo instructor, Club 316, Spanish adult Sunday school, and children’s Sunday school teacher. Heavily involved in The Salvation Army, in 2015 I found myself wanting to become an officer. I shared with the captains, and they told me, “Let’s pray and wait for God’s answer.” Due to many obstacles including my visa status, I was unable to be considered as a potential candidate. The window to being accepted kept getting smaller every year because soon I would reach the age limit that the training college would accept.

However, something life changing happened to me two months ago, something that caused me great fear and sorrow, but also gave me hope and assurance.

I went to work on March 13. It was a normal day in my workplace, when suddenly two people tried to steal an item. I asked them to return it, but they were unwilling to do so. One started to

get physical with me. I had to defend myself. At first, I managed to fight off the person and he soon fled. I thought it was over. A few seconds later the man returned to my stand and he shot me in the back with a gun. I felt a pain in my back like fire burning. Immediately I fell on the floor, unable to move because of the agonizing pain. Soon, the ambulance came and took me to the emergency room. I couldn’t believe that I had survived. What’s more amazing was that without touching any internal organs, the bullet entered near my lungs and exited five inches down my back near the ribs—a few inches more inward and I would’ve been paralyzed or even dead. God’s hand had guided the bullet to avoid seriously injuring me. After leaving the hospital I returned home alone, but I could feel the strong presence of Jesus Christ with me during my recovery. Captains Kang and their family, with the love and kindness of God, came every day to my home to tend to my wounds. Now, my wounds are completely healed, and I can do all the regular activities I used to do.

A few days after the incident occurred, the sheriff informed me that as a victim of a crime, I was eligible for my temporary visa which would allow me to remain in the United States legally. This came as a surprise to me because I wasn’t thinking about ways of acquiring a visa. I had, in fact, begun losing hope of ever getting one. However, God changed my mourning into praise answering my prayer in an unexpected way. I knew that as soon as I got the chance, I would have to resolve my status. I started praying for God’s guidance and wisdom to lead me in the right way to find a good lawyer to help me through

this process. He already had the answer on the way. I was at home when I turned on the radio, something I rarely do. I heard an advertisement about an immigration lawyer for a free consultation. I immediately called him. I am in the process of completing my application for my temporary visa. I believe not only did He use my incident as a way of letting me get a visa, but now I will be able to use that visa to apply to training college where I can learn to live a life wholly dedicated to proclaiming His name.

I know our Savior hears our prayer, and although we may not understand His perfect timing, I feel His love and mercy. I trust in Him always. I know God called me, and He has a purpose for me.

Jeremiah 29:11 says, “Because I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This verse will be the testament I will live from now on. I expect God’s amazing grace to unfold in my future.

CANDIDATES! CANDIDATES! CALLING ALL CANDIDATES!

BY MAJOR RAYMOND PATRICK

When you woke up this morning, what was your first thought? Mine was first to thank God for a new day and then I prayed for additional candidates for our four officer training colleges. This is my regular routine since my Samuel experience with our God.

You don’t know the story? I will give you the short version. One night last June after watching two of our territorial commissioning services, I was greatly troubled because the numbers were so low. At about 3 AM, I was imploring God to help us get more cadets into the training colleges. I asked God, “What can be done about this situation?” He answered me. It was not soft

nor was it BOOMING. He simply turned the tables on me and said, “What are YOU going to do about it?”

That was the beginning of Praying for 50@50 —Praying that God would call into officership 50 cadets for each of our four training colleges. The second 50 is a little selfish. I have an alarm that goes off at 9:50 AM each day. It’s my birthday alarm and reminds me to call those who are in my contact list. It is also my time to pray for more candidates.

Since that time, beginning in July, I have been coming up with ways to challenge people to pray with me for more cadets. To underscore the need, note that this year we will Commission 67 new lieutenants across the entire nation. Next

year it dips to 61.

In August, I sent out a call to all retired officers in the South to pray with me. I thought that number of participants could be more, so I called each of the territorial commanders and asked permission to have their retired officer representative send out the articles I put together. With a unanimous YES I started a nationwide “Prayer Request for Candidates” in September 2022.

I then asked each of the territories to share with me the first name and an initial of the candidates they were watching. That produced a list of 172 names of prospective candidates.

In January and February, I created a list of these candidates and cadets and asked officers from all over the nation to pray for the list I sent them. Now I had a list of 300 names that I divided by ten—ten for each day of the month and asked individual officers to pray with me for each name. I called the officer at or about 9:50 and we would together pray for the list of names. In March I asked my session-mates to accept ten names so we could pray for that candidate or cadet. In April I sent out a list of every session since 1940 and asked those sessions to Pray for 50@50.

I am going to do it again. There will be new names, but the idea is to get as many believers as possible to pray for candidates and cadets. This month, I have written a letter of encouragement to each of the cadets being commissioned. I am asking you to do the same.

I am grateful for all the support I have received for my efforts. I am encouraged by all the prayer warriors participating. Our great God has a plan for our Army. We are all in His hands.

The Salvation Army’s USA Southern Territory has eight camps in operation, serving thousands of people, young and old, throughout the year. These camps soar to new heights each summer, with youth from across the Southeast arriving in search of a one-of-a-kind experience and long-lasting memories. In 2021, more than 2,300 campers took part in summer activities, with that number set to rise in 2022.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Salvation Army camps did not occur in traditional form in 2020, and 2021 brought a mix of programming in keeping with continuing safety concerns. For many campers and staff alike, summer camp was the first in-person community experience in more than a year, and the outlet was crucial in helping those dealing with the significant mental toll of isolation.

“Camp has always been an important part of people’s lives but the 2021 summer, and also the upcoming 2022 summer, I think we needed camp more than ever,” said Caleb Louden, territorial youth character building and camp program director. “It really was a place of renewal and healing for so many people.”

Salvation Army camps are also embracing innovation, in part due to the evolving nature of ministry in the wake of the pandemic. With that comes a renewed focus on outdoors and activities that many city-bound young people would not experience in any other venue.

The Salvation Army’s Camp Happyland, located in Richardsville, Virginia, is a prime example with the utilization of Happyland Farms in 2021. This included the deployment of multi-day overnight camps featuring outdoor meal preparation, kayaking, and fishing. In Florida, Camp Keystone leaned on specialized activity experts related to the outdoors to breathe life into activities that provide exercise, team-building, and new challenges. In each division, The Salvation Army also hosts unique, multi-week music and arts conservatory programs centered on meaningful instruction and training that can be reinvested into corps programming.

With the intent to operate at full capacity in 2022, a mixture of activities will be in place across the territory with meaningful impact sure to follow. As always, the gospel will be at the center of The Salvation Army’s work, and excitement builds for a life-changing summer ahead.

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

By the time you receive this, commissioning weekend will have just concluded. Since the beginning of the territory in 1927, the annual event has been the initiation of service for those called to be Salvation Army officers. Without interruption, commissioning has continued through wars, the Great Depression and several recessions, COVID, hurricanes and other natural disasters, riots, shortfalls and times of plenty. Each year they march across a stage as cadets, to exit the stage as officers.

Those of us who have served as officers are inevitably transported back to the day of our commissioning. Some of us were quite young while others had tasted life. We recall the staff that did what they could to educate, train, mold and set us on our way. We think of our sessionmates, some to disappear from sight in the years that followed while others spent each day waking

God Is There Spit and Polish

up, putting on their uniforms and going forth to serve in whatever capacity someone else decided they should be in.

I remember times when it didn’t seem like the days of blessing would ever end. Then there were other days when the hardship was crushing and I wondered if I could hold on. I think of the corps and headquarters appointments. What some of those dear people had to endure! I still feel the sting of failures, of the times I let someone down who needed me and I couldn’t see or understand it. And I remember thinking any number of times, “They didn’t teach me about this in training.”

Ah, lieutenants, you have no idea what’s going to hit you. But God is there. And if you keep yourself attuned to His Spirit, you’ll find the way. You will bless the people despite the many times you have to get out of your own way. God proves Himself in the weak things, leads us on our detours, gives us the manna for the day.

Take note Southern Territory. The new lieutenants are on their way to serve, to learn, to share. People across the map await them. God bless the corps where they will serve. God bless the new officers. God bless The Salvation Army.

Journey

BY DAVID NEW

I work at the divisional headquarters for The Salvation Army in Texas. Every day we have a designated breaktime from 10:00AM to 10:20AM. My wife, who works in the same building, is someone who avidly takes care of herself. By that, I mean she exercises, eats healthily, and goes to bed at a good time—all things I don’t necessarily partake in. So, because of this, she often encourages me to take a walk with her during our 20-minute breaktime.

To be honest, it’s not something I usually look forward to. Especially if I’m extra tired (this excess of tiredness coming from my “inability” to go to sleep at a good time). But regardless, I can always count on her to come to my office at 9:59. She gives me the most guilt-tripping eyes. Today, I really wanted to say, “I’m sorry, Kelsie. Just not feeling it.” And I was very close to. But for some reason, I looked at her and couldn’t say no. Over something so silly. A walk. I looked at her, and I was suddenly so aware of how beautiful she looked this morning. I thought about all the sacrifices she makes for me on a daily basis. Then it dawned on me that just to see her smile in the mild excitement of a slob like me agreeing to accompany her on a walk is worth anything. And so, I said yes. And although my right leg is kind of hurting from attempting to keep up with her rapid pace, I’m so glad I did.

BY DR. STEVE KELLNER

Our military services are known for their obsession with “spit and polish”, the cleaning and maintenance of weapons, facilities, vehicles, and equipment, and ensuring their readiness for use. As a student years ago at the Armed Forces School of Music my classmates and I cleaned the entire school at the end of every duty day, though there was hardly anything that needed cleaning. This included not just normal tidying up like dusting, vacuuming, emptying the trash, and cleaning the latrines, but also polishing all the brass door handles and stair rails, and buffing the floors.

On Wednesday evenings we held a “field night”, a deep cleaning of the school. To give just one example of the level of spit and polish I’m describing, we scraped up the old floor wax with our dog tags and lit the newly applied wax on fire because melting it made the floors shinier! We had to keep our barracks just as clean, and we were required to clean our instruments weekly.

Though we complained endlessly about all this we understood its purpose. With hundreds of students using the buildings every day, dirt and disorganization could quickly take over if not for vigilant cleaning and maintenance. A music school depends on working instruments, and training time would be lost if equipment wasn’t stowed properly for easy retrieval. And something else: walking into a gleaming building every morning made us feel like we were doing something important, and we felt a sense of pride that we had done the cleaning ourselves.

I recently visited a corps community center on a weekday and was pleased to see how clean and orderly it was. Everything was ready for Sun -

day morning, the Sunday school lessons and crafts neatly laid out on the tables, the nursery well organized and stocked with baby supplies, the spotless sanctuary ready for worship. A room that I remembered from a previous visit as being a filled with junk was now a spacious game room. As the saying goes, you could have eaten off the floors.

I wasn’t surprised then to learn from the corps officers that more than 60 students from the local university volunteer in the corps every week and that community center attendance is up. The building itself sends a message that everyone is welcome, all has been made ready, and that something important is happening inside. And this before anyone has spoken a word.

It’s easy to poke fun at spit and polish, and admittedly it’s not as important as having a heart for God and others. But it is often an accurate barometer of how committed a corps is to reaching others for Christ and meeting their needs. Our buildings make a first impression on newcomers, for better or worse, and affect the way regular attenders feel about the corps as well.

So, some questions: Does your corps building make newcomers feel welcome? Is it obvious that preparations were made for their coming? Is the building safe for children? Is the room in which you worship God clean and orderly? Do your corps members feel a sense of pride in the condition of the corps building? Do they feel comfortable bringing new folks to corps meetings and programs? Do the instruments and sound system work properly? Can important supplies be located quickly?

If you don’t like your answers to these questions, try a little spit and polish in your corps. It’s more important than you might think, for newcomers and old timers alike. But don’t burn the building down when you light the floor wax!

I haven’t lived enough life yet to really give drastic life-altering advice. But perhaps life is more than a collection of experiences. I’m sure 20 years from now, I won’t remember this walk I took or how tired I was beforehand. But does that matter? A daily walk with my wife is priceless. Each step molding me into a better person and husband. Each stride reminding me of the love we have for each other. Every stumble a reminder that she’ll be there to pick me up. The phrase “It’s about the journey” is not one I use frequently. Its trendy appearance is a bit…. well, annoyingly gross to me. But I can’t deny its truth.

At the risk of unprofessionally avoiding any well thought-out segue way, our life as believers should follow the same outline. Movies and television have trained us to think the important experiences in life should be a single climactic moment in which you, the main character, has a cathartic realization. This realization marks a change in your life, and nothing is ever the same. And maybe for some, this moment does occur. But for others, including myself, life is rarely so dramatic. The twists and turns of our daily routines don’t quite garner the same dramatic quality of your average sitcom. And so, we fabricate meaning and purpose. We convince ourselves to commit to almost anything other than our relationship with Christ.

A portion of Scripture that often brings me to tears is found in 1 Kings Chapter 19. At this

A column exploring how the principles, practices and culture of our military services might apply to The Salvation Army

AN ARMY!

particular point, we find a broken Elijah. A man so committed to God that his very life is in danger because of it. He is scared, alone, and is quite literally crying out to the Lord. To which, God reveals an array of beautiful yet terrifying examples of nature. There is a great wind, a massive earthquake, and a scorching fire. I can’t imagine what that moment was like for Elijah. The phrase “Do not be afraid” is used multiple times in Scripture and I suppose it’s for moments like these. However, the part that truly moves me every time is what happens next. God was not in any of those great and terrible things. Instead, He came to Elijah in the form of a whisper. He came to him in a way Elijah would feel heard and comforted and, in doing so, He restored Elijah’s faith and courage.

How often do we forget that the moments in life that shape us into the people we become are not moments of fire, wind, and earthquakes? Instead, it is moments of quiet. Moments when we feel comforted. Moments when we are reminded of how God speaks to us in ways we can understand.

Think about that for a moment. The God of the universe cares so much about you, that He communicates with you in a way perfectly suited for you. Our job and joy is to let Him. So stop waiting for God to reveal Himself in something animatedly comical. He is whispering to you now.

I’d love to take my wife around the world, visiting every interesting place we can imagine. And perhaps over time we can cross some of those locations off the list. But I must never forget that these daily walks with my wife are a blessing. They remind me of all the wonderful things about her, and 20 minutes is such a small sacrifice to pay for that. WORTH

Words of Life Launches ‘Discipled by Algorithms’ Series

BY CHRIS BENJAMIN

As The Salvation Army’s Soundcast team was planning the Words of Life series for 2022, a desire to do a new series about technology and the church emerged. We wanted to dive into how algorithms, specifically, are shaping many of our worldviews without our knowledge. Social media can be an incredible tool for good however, it can also reinforce biases and cause further divides, keeping us in our perspective bubbles.

During this planning, our media editor, Steven Nolan, came across an article by Jason Thacker about this very topic. Thacker, an author, podcaster and professor, also serves as the chair of research in technology ethics and director of the research institute at The Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention.

After contacting him, he was pleased to join us on the show to have a conversation about

Occasionally there are books related to The Salvation Army that are published by outside sources. We are pleased to recommend the following book to you.

Soup Bone Holler, Indiana

by Violet Jean Anderson Gerber

Some people just live fascinating lives. That is certainly the case for Jean Gerber. My wife and I had the privilege of having her as a soldier of the Birmingham Citadel Corps (Alabama) back in the 1990s. She was an upbeat, highly committed, vibrant witness for Christ. Little did we know that her story had such depth and was so very fascinating. This is one of those books that draws you in as Jean retraces her steps and in it all, lives her life for the Lord in multiple countries and even with infamous mass murderers. Take some time and enjoy the ride. Available through Amazon at a cost of $15.63 or $8.49 in Kindle format.

Territorial Commanders of the USA

Southern Territory

technology and the church. The discussion included how we shouldn’t be in fear of the technology that surrounds us, but should be embracing some, while challenging others and innovating in the ways we use these modern tools to spread the gospel and love our neighbors.

Launched May 8, the series is titled “Discipled by Algorithms.” Words of Life, a 15-minute show, is airing on more than 200 radio stations around the world. Words of Life can also be found wherever you get your podcasts, including Apple Podcsts and Spotify. For more information, visit https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife.

Jason Thacker and Bernie Dake

World Services Report: Uganda

Home of Joy

BY MAJOR RAY COOPER

In 1931, The Salvation Army opened fire in Uganda when Captain and Mrs. Edward Osborne unfurled the flag in Mbale, Uganda as part of the East Africa Territory. In September 1977 the Army’s religious teaching was banned and in June 1978 its ministry, including social work, was proscribed. In 1980, Majors Leonard and Dorothy Millar began work with the persecuted Salvationists to reestablish The Salvation Army. Uganda became a separate command on November 1, 2005 and achieved territorial status on March 1, 2011.

In Uganda, the gospel is preached in English, Kiswahili, Luganda, and a number of tribal languages.

Among the many centers in the Uganda Territory, the Home of Joy is a center for children living with physical disabilities that belongs to the Salvation Army Church.

OBJECTIVES:

• To support and to train children on vocational skills to enhance their self-reliance.

• To offer psychological support to the clients through counselling and guidance in order to reduce trauma and low self-esteem.

• To support and aid children with disabilities needing access to medication and assistive appliances.

URGENT NEEDS:

• Fencing

• Solar heater and instant showers

• Water pump and a big tank

• Sewer line

• Staff training

• Fire extinguishers

IMPORTANT NEEDS:

• Balanced diet

• Medical logbook

• Motorized wheelchairs and other assistive appliances

ESSENTIAL NEEDS:

• Curtains

• Wardrobes

• Institutional gas cooker

• Deep freezer/fridge

• Washing machine

DESIRABLE NEEDS:

• Computers

Although new government regulations call for reintegrating children from children’s homes back to the family unit, we are left with five children who are cases of abandonment and have no families or relatives who can take care of them. They will continue to remain under the care of the home until a better solution has been found. Two of these children have multiple disabilities. If you would like to know more or if you are interested in supporting or sponsoring a project for the Uganda Territory, contact Major Ray Cooper at ray.cooper@uss.salvationarmy.org

WORD SEARCH

Territorial Commanders of the USA Southern Territory

DAVIDSON DRAY

FEENER

WORD LIST: ARNOLD BELL BUSBY CARLSON CHAMBERLAIN CHESHAM COOPER DAMON

HODDER

HOLZ

HOOD

HOWELL

Answers on page 9

JEFFREY

MCINTYRE

MILLER

Promotions and Summer Assignments

On behalf of the Territorial Commander, Commissioner Willis Howell, we want to congratulate the following Southern Officers serving at National Headquarters for their promotion effective Friday, April 22, 2022.

Major Stephen Ellis, National Treasurer and National Secretary for Business Administration, is promoted to the rank of Lt. Colonel

Major Susan Ellis, National Program and Special Projects Officer, is promoted to the rank of Lt. Colonel May God bless and keep these officers.

On behalf of the Territorial Commander, Commissioner Willis Howell, we are very pleased to announce the Summer Assignments of the cadets of the Reflectors of Holiness Session. Please be in prayer for these cadets as they prepare for what God had planned for them this summer.

Arkansas & Oklahoma Division

Cadets Corey & Mandy Doggett North Little Rock Corps & Central AR Area Command

Cadets Luke & Tonya Swain Mountain Home, AR Florida Division

Cadets Kalynn & Timothy Green St. Petersburg, FL (Corps)

Cadets Amanda & Daniel Jones Bradenton, FL

Georgia Division

Cadet Jamie Dupree Columbus, GA

North & South Carolina Division

Cadet Micah Gallagher Midlands Area Command, Columbia, SC

Cadet Jennifer Hess Waynesville, NC

Cadets Ohsang Kwon & Yoo Ni Lee Spartanburg, SC

Cadets Aleah & Christopher Rawls Hickory, NC

Potomac Division

Cadet Jacobs Gilliam Roanoke, VA

Cadets Douglas & Sharon Ingold Salisbury, MD

Cadets Candace & John Lawrence Hampton Roads Area Command, VA

Cadets Isaiah & Rachel Rector Lynchburg, VA

Texas Division

Cadets Jenayia & Karim Shuaib II

Kroc Corps Community Center, Kerrville, TX

Janice M. Riefer

Lt. Colonel SECRETARY FOR PERSONNEL

The Spirit of the South

100 Years Ago

Lt. Mabel Garland was married last night to Captain Warren Keller at the Eutaw Street Methodist Episcopal Church. The ceremony was conducted by Brigadier H.D. Bale. With the exception of the brother of the bride, all participants are officers. Following the ceremony, addresses were made by the bride and groom as well as Commandant George Garland, father of the bride.

The romance began in Norfolk, Virginia when Captain Keller was on shore leave as he served in the US Navy. Lt. Garland was then working for The Salvation Army in Norfolk. (Baltimore Sun, June 29, 1922)

75 Years Ago

New appointments were announced by divisional commander of the Louisiana/Oklahoma Division by Brigadier Edward Laity. Captain and Mrs. Leslie Carter and Captain Evelyn Bergren are going to Sapulpa, Oklahoma. Also moving are Lt. Ruth Langer to Oklahoma City, Captain Warren Fulton to Enid, Adjutant Lewis Pertain to Musokgee, Captain George Short is headed to Chickasha while Captain Virgil Potter is on the way to Clinton. (Daily Oklahoman, Oklahoma City, OK June 15, 1947)

50 Years Ago

An amnesiac has been under the care of The Salvation Army in Key West, Florida. The young man is a swimmer and a musician but other than that, has no memory of who he is or how he ended up in Key West. Assisting the officer there, Auxiliary Captain Minard Chapman, is Colonel D.E. Norris of Miami. A nationwide search has been launched to reconnect the John Doe with any family members. Note: Soon after this, family members came forward to reconnect with him. He still had no memory, but they were able to confirm his identity and take him back home. (Miami Herald, June 10, 1972)

25 Years Ago

Lt. Colonels David and Jean Mikles have retired after 43 years of service as Salvation Army officers. After a career that took them to all points in the Southern Territory, the Mikles were feted at a farewell banquet where they were presented the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest honor that the governor of North Carolina can present to individuals. Asked what they would do in retirement, they replied, “We will wait to see what need beckons.” (Charlotte Observer, June 29, 1997)

Kentucky/Tennessee Division

Divisional Senior Computer Support Analyst

The Kentucky–Tennessee Division is actively seeking a Divisional Senior Computer Support Analyst for the Louisville Kentucky Divisional Headquarters. This position will provides advanced level of technical support to Divisional Headquarters staff and field personnel in the use/application of computer technology based on proficient knowledge of the information technology structure and applications utilized by The Salvation Army, including Microsoft Windows and Office 365; answers questions, resolves complaints, repairs equipment, changes software configurations, installs new hardware and peripherals; manages the HelpDesk ticketing system to ensure that requests for service are supported staff by providing guidance and/or training in troubleshooting hardware and software problems, and serves as technical lead on assigned IT projects.

For additional information regarding the position and to apply to job requisition 20302. Southern Territory employees, please click on the Careers icon located on the home page of Ceridian Dayforce. (External candidates, please apply at www.salvationarmycareers.org)

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Administrative Assistant II/ Youth Program Assistant

The Kentucky–Tennessee Division is actively seeking an Administrative Assistant II/Youth Program Assistant for the Louisville Kentucky Divisional Headquarters. This position will be Consistent with The Salvation Army mission and core values, and in cooperation with colleagues; under the direction of the Divisional Youth/Candidates Secretary and/or Associate Divisional Youth Secretary the Program Coordinator assist in the administration, planning, development and oversight of all Youth Camp programs, USDA program and all office activities to ensure efficient office systems and performs necessary administrative duties; supervises the front office activities, including the reception and distribution of mail; coordinates office services and related activities. Answers the telephone in a courteous manner and directs calls to the appropriate destination, records accurate and complete messages, when necessary, assists the Divisional Youth Department staff as time allows.

For additional information regarding the position and to apply to job requisition 20265. Southern Territory employees, please click on the Careers icon located on the home page of Ceridian Dayforce. (External candidates, please apply at www.salvationarmycareers.org)

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Kentucky-Tennessee Division Contact sharon.franklin@uss.salvationarmy.org or 502-357-8537

“I MUST GO, NOT ONLY TO THOSE WHO NEED ME, BUT TO THOSE WHO NEED ME MOST.”

– WILLIAM BOOTH, FOUNDER OF THE SALVATION ARMY

Commissioner James Osborne

Commissioner James Osborne was born of Salvation Army officer parents in Toledo, Ohio, July 3, 1927 and was promoted to Glory from his home in Clearwater, Florida on May 12, 2022. He married Ruth Campbell on November 26, 1945 and was honorably discharged from the United States Army on October 17, 1946. They entered The Salvation Army School for Officer’s Training as part of the Warriors Session and was commissioned in June 1947. Their first appointment was in Nashville, Tennessee.

From 1948 to 1965, he served in Memphis, Tennessee, Owensboro, Kentucky, followed by appointments in Chattanooga, Tennessee and Miami, Florida.

From 1965 to 1980, Commissioner Osborne’s career took him to Salvation Army administrative assignments in five divisions of the Southern Territory: divisional secretary, Kentucky-Tennessee Division; general secretary, North/South Carolina Division; territorial public relations secretary; and divisional commander in Maryland/Northern West Virginia, National Capital/Virginias and Florida.

In 1980, he was appointed as the Western Territory’s Chief Secretary with headquarters in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. From January 1984 to October 1986, he was national chief secretary. In 1986 he became the territorial commander for the USA Southern Territory and was then selected as national commander, Verona, New Jersey, in 1989. While serving as national commander, he relocated the USA National Headquarters to Alexandria, Virginia.

Upon his appointment as National Commander, Commissioner Osborne stated: “I do not believe in simply maintaining or rearranging the status quo. I believe that we have not done our best thing yet. I intend by God’s help to make a difference in this appointment.”

Commissioner Osborne has been an articulate spokesman for The Salvation Army and its spiritual principals. He has stated: “I believe that the great act and fact of the ages is that God was in Christ, reconciling the world to Himself. I believe that every other act of history pales into insignificance when seen in the light of the overwhelming love of God as expressed in Christ Jesus. And I believe that the subsequent birth and burgeoning of The Salvation Army are not in the yesterdays but are rather in the tomorrows. There is work to do and I’m here to do it!”

Throughout his life, Commissioner Osborne has been widely recognized for his leadership skills. He is listed in Who’s Who in Religion and Who’s Who in America. He served on various Salvation Army national commissions, was the past chairman of the Commissioners’ Conference and the Advisory Council to the General. He was elected president of The Salvation Army High Council, responsible for electing a new General in 1993.

Commissioner Osborne attended the International College for Officers in London, England in 1964. He was awarded an honorary Doctor of Public Service Degree by Gordon College in Wenham, Massachusetts in 1991.

He was preceded in in death by his parents, Lt. Colonels Al and Gladys Osborne, and wife Ruth on March 2, 2017.

Commissioner Osborne and Lt. Colonel Shirley Anderson were married on August 11, 2018 in Lake Junaluska, North Carolina. They have shared the last three-plus years enjoying each other and spending time with their loved ones.

Commissioner Osborne is survived by his loving wife, Lt. Colonel Shirley Osborne, daughter Lt. Colonel Connie (Don) Canning, brothers: Ronnie (Ruth) and Harry Osborne, foster daughter Minnie Orsburn, and grandchildren: Captain Philip (Elaine) Canning, Stephanie (Victor) Rutledge, six wonderful great-grandchildren: Abigail and Jackson Canning, Caroline, Taylor, Allison and Levi Rutledge, as well as nieces and nephews and a host of friends.