

MESSENGERS OF RECONCILIATION LAUNCHED
BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEEArriving during the darkest days of the COVID pandemic, cadets of the Messengers of Reconciliation Session braved leaving homes, jobs and the safety of isolation to arrive at 1032 Metropolitan Parkway in Atlanta, beginning their training to become Salvation Army officers. Getting to training is a journey under the best of circumstances but these persevered and finished this initial segment of their life of service to God, His people and the Army.
The final steps in this process culminated with the Commissioning and Ordination Service on Sunday, June 5, 2022. Eleven cadets were commissioned as lieutenants, supplemented by three auxiliary captains who were promoted to the rank of captain. In presenting the Messengers of Reconciliation, Major Tom Louden, president of Evangeline Booth College and principal of the School for Officers’ Training, said, “I present to you fourteen who are on fire, sanctified, Blood and Fire officers who know God, know themselves, and know the mission of The Salvation Army. They are proclaimers of God’s Word, while living incarnationally and sacrificially for the salvation of the world through Jesus Christ. They are ready to do battle. They understand that The Salvation Army is not dependent upon a building or particular place. The Salvation Army is where they stand with the whosoever before them.”
Highlighting the varied paths taken to reach this moment, Cadets Rashad Poole, Ali Hamil -


ton, Sam Mhasvi and Myranda Estudiante shared moving stories of God’s work in their lives. After reciting the Salvation Army doctrines, cadets and auxiliary captains to be commissioned came forward, knelt and received God’s blessing and a Scripture chosen for them by the territorial leaders, Commissioners Willis and Barbara Howell.
Mindful of not only the newly commissioned officers but the family, friends and Salvationists gathered, Commissioner Willis Howell engaged the crowd by dividing them between those who on cue would either shout out, “used to” or “but now.” This was entered into enthusiastically as
“Messengers...” continued on page 3
Saturday Night: “Kingdom on the Rise”
An Evening of Worship and Ministry
BY BRAD ROWLANDOn the evening of Saturday, June 4 and with the theme of “Kingdom on the Rise,” music and arts ensembles from across the Southeast came together for an evening of inspiring worship and ministry. Following a rousing opener titled “Proclamation” from the AOK Divisional Band, led by Andrew Barrington, the program continued without interlude or introduction, with a musical suite titled “To the Chief Musician” serving as one of the centerpieces of the evening.
Backed by a massed band consisting of more than one hundred players and led by special guest William Himes, who penned the musical work, the first movement also featured a massed choir and lyrical movement. This crossover appeal was a clear theme of the evening, with Bethany Farrell, territorial creative arts director, directing the staging and Territorial Arts Ministry (TAM) providing creative arts elements ranging from drama, poetry, and dance.
The program highlighted the work of divisional groups in the middle of the evening, including a featured piece titled “Arise, My Soul, Arise” from the AOK Divisional Band. Later, the Texas Youth Chorus, conducted by Matthew Broome, ministered in song, both in a standalone sharing

of “Faithful is Our God” and in conjunction with the Atlanta Area Junior Choir on “Similitudes.”
“I was so proud of the divisional groups that attended the Commissioning weekend festivities,” said Nick Simmons-Smith, territorial music secretary. “Some of these groups have never traveled outside their respective divisions. They all performed to an exceptionally high standard and did so with a very busy schedule that featured intense rehearsals, long days, lots of travel, and not much sleep. I thought they were simply outstanding, which gives me great hope for the future.”
“Saturday Night...” continued on page 4
Evangeline Booth Commencement Service
BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEEThe culmination of two years of training for the Messengers of Reconciliation Session was kicked off with the Commencement Service on Friday, June 3 at the Atlanta Temple Corps. With the accompaniment of the Arkansas & Oklahoma Divisional Band, a lively service heralded the accomplishments not only of cadets but numerous officers in the Southern Territory.
Delivering the commencement address was Dr. Matt Ayars, president of Wesley Biblical Seminary (WBS) in Jackson, Mississippi. Commenting about the close bonds between WBS and The Salvation Army, Ayers then used Revelation 2:1-7 as the basis of his challenge. “Like the church in Ephesus, The Salvation Army deserves commendation for its deeds and perseverance. There is no toleration for falsehood, or ‘flash in the pan’ Christianity.
“Nonetheless, like the church in Ephesus, The Salvation Army needs to be cautioned in three areas. First, you can’t love the Army more than you love Jesus. If the love of and for Jesus isn’t what compels you, the work will stop, you will not per-
Major David Gilliam
Master of Organizational Leadership
Major Jana Griffin
Master of Arts in Professional Counseling
Major Robert Lyle
Master of Divinity
Major Karla Perez
Master of Professional Counseling
Captain Tonya Farrington
Master of Organizational Leadership
Captain Josh Hinson
Master of International Service
Captain Andrea Israel
Master of Organizational Leadership
Captain Timothy Israel
Master of Business Administration
Captain George Keith
Master of Arts in Religion
Captain Rebecca McGee
Master of Business Administration
Captain Jennifer Schmidt
Master of Professional Counseling
Lt. Amber Smith
Master of Human Resource Management
Major Franko Higdon
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Major Ray Jackson
severe. Second, you must love each other. If you fight, bicker and gossip, go the heck home! You witness by how you love each other. Your work will be in vain if you have a dirty witness. Third, love your enemies. It was the Lamb slain by His enemies that conquers the world. When you fight with the world, you don’t change it. It changes when you die for it.”
Later, the cadet representative speaker, Cadet Shania Mhasvi spoke of the journey she and her sessionmates have been on for the past two years. “We have realized the magnitude of reconciling people to Christ. Although tied to forgiveness, it is not the same. Reconciliation means bringing harmony to what was divided. Bringing the message of reconciliation is not a job but it is our mission and our ministry.”
A few minutes later, Cadet Shania Mhasvi was called up again to receive the highest award given to a cadet, the Commissioners’ Award. Also spotlighted was Cadet Alison Hamilton with the Principals’ Award, the second highest honor given to a cadet.
Also recognized during the meeting were officers who had received Master and Bachelor

Dr. Matt Ayars, president of Wesley Biblical Seminary
degrees from various institutions as well as those who had graduated from Arrow Leadership studies. All the cadets also received their Bachelor of Arts in Practical Ministries.
The meeting was brought to a close with a stirring rendition of the congregational song, “In Christ Alone.”
Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees*
Captain Arnaldo Pena
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Captain Niurka Pena
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Captain Andre Pereira
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Captain April Tiller
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Lt. Emily Arroqui
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Lt. Nicholas Arroqui
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Lt. Jowens Merone
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Lt. Bradly Mumford
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Cadet Lyla Baca
Bachelor of Arts in Practical Ministries
Cadet Marcos Baca
Bachelor of Arts in Practical Ministries
Cadet Karen Burton
Bachelor of Arts in Practical Ministries
Cadet Myranda Estudiante
Bachelor of Arts in Practical Ministries
Cadet Victor Estudiante
Bachelor of Arts in Practical Ministries
Cadet Roy Fisher
Bachelor of Arts in Practical Ministries
Bachelor of Arts in Management and Leadership
Captain Jamaal Ellis
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Captain Bryan Farrington
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Captain Clara Gomez
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Captain Ryan Meo
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Captain Ruby Outlaw-Keith
Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministry
Cadet Alison Hamilton
Bachelor of Arts in Practical Ministries
Cadet Samuel Mhasvi
Bachelor of Arts in Practical Ministries
Cadet Shania Mhasvi
Bachelor of Arts in Practical Ministries
Cadet Rashad Poole
Bachelor of Arts in Practical Ministries
Cadet Anthony Rowe
Bachelor of Arts in Practical Ministries
*Ranks are those at time of the recognition.
Arrow Leadership Graduates
Major Benita Morris
53rd Executive Class
Captain Joan Frazier
53rd Emerging Class
Captain Joshua Hinson
53rd Emerging Class
Captain Amber Morris
53rd Emerging Class
Captain Bobby Parker
53rd Emerging Class
Captain Donna Watts
53rd Emerging Class
Texas Woman Overcomes Addiction and Homelessness
The following story was first published by FOX 7 in Austin, Texas.
A woman who spent over thirty years in Austin, Texas shares her story of how she overcame addiction and homelessness.
April Diaz lived in Austin from 1980 to 2017. She now lives in Upstate New York.
For the bulk of her time in Austin, she was homeless.
“I was on the streets, and I slept on the side of the ARCH, and I would go in and out of The Salvation Army, but when I got high, I’d lose my bed because I wouldn’t go back in,” she said.
It all began in 1988, when she started drinking after her son drowned in a bathtub. Six years after that, her boyfriend at the time was murdered. Then she started using cocaine and became homeless.
“That was my routine every day for those many years. That’s all I did was drink and get high,” she said.
She was assaulted several times. The last time she was attacked with a knife, she was almost stabbed in the chest. That’s when she decided to turn her life around.
“I said no, I was done. And that was enough for me,” she said.
Diaz credits Harriet Young at The Salvation Army for helping her. “She would encourage me that I am better than what I was doing, that there was life beyond living in the streets, drinking, and doing drugs,” Diaz said.
“I would always, always uplift her,” Young said.
Diaz says several others there also helped her get to rehab.
“They didn’t give up on me. So I decided to listen to the words of encouragement and make a change in my life,” she said.
Diaz moved to Upstate New York where her brother is. Now she helps manage a painting company. She also says she has a good relationship with her family and has been clean for six years.
“I’m just too excited about my new life. I love my new life. I cherish my new life,” she said.
When she sees others that are still in the same shoes she was in, she says, “Some of the people look really bad, and this may sound bad, but they’re like death walking. When I saw them, I just thank God that I got out.”
Her advice to them would be to ask for help from people like Young, and to think about their families.
“They should reach out and really talk to her and really listen to her and take the encouraging words and put it to heart,” Diaz said.
“I give God the glory and allow Him to use me to be able to help others,” Young said. “I’m just honored.”
“Life is a whole lot better on this side,” Diaz said.

“Messengers...” continued from page 1
the commissioner presented different life scenarios. Then he brought it into focus. He cited General Brian Peddle’s recent remarks to the General’s Consultative Council in which the General said, “For us the redemptive, restorative gospel is the main thing.” Howell then compared the expectations of those outside our ranks with this standard. “United Way will never come and give us money for this purpose. Community leaders and even our advisory boards will not ask, ‘How many are being saved? Became soldiers? Graduated from the ARC?’
“The gospel is the main thing. Above all else, we should be experts at sharing the gospel while being professional at other things. Our ultimate aim is to be the Good News people. It is wonderful that we are professional at sheltering people, with disaster work, with our social ministries but if we don’t rise up and leverage our expertise by sharing the gospel with them we have missed the main thing.
“The world does not need another well-run charity. While we can resemble that, our main persona must be that we are an Army of Salvation. We need to be experts at salvation. And to deepen, disciple in the faith soldiers who win others to Christ.”
Then the commissioner asked Salvationists to recite a portion of the Soldier’s Covenant : “I now call upon all present to witness that I enter into this covenant and sign these Articles of War of my own free will, convinced that the love of Christ, who died and now lives to save me, requires from me this devotion of my life to His service for the salvation of the whole world; and therefore do here declare my full determination, by God’s help, to be a true soldier of The Salvation Army.” The commissioner then challenged those present, “How are you fulfilling the declaration you made of your own free will?”
With the question posed, scores streamed to the front, kneeling in consecration in response to the Holy Spirit’s prompting.
After a brief break, the celebration continued with a session entitled, “Rise Up and Go Forth!” Decidedly upbeat in all phases, the meeting opened with the song, “To Battle We Go.” A parade featured each session flag beginning with the Fearless Session in 1945 and ending with Messengers of Grace Session (2021), and where possible, members of that session serving as flag bearer. This was followed by the acknowledgement of officers who had been recognized for various levels of long service as well as those who had retired in the past year.
Hearkening back to a commissioning weekend practice of years past, the World Services gathering was once again included in the festivities. Reaching an unprecedented amount, the USA Southern Territory garnered $11,911,861 for the worldwide work of the Army. (For further details, see the chart on page 10.)
Commissioner Barbara Howell in her charge to the cadets, made it clear that it was a test for all those listening. “Are you fired up? Packed up? Is the passion burning? We have to go, to be messengers and communicate the gospel of love. Even though it is an amazing message, that doesn’t make the task any easier. Not everyone wants to hear. But people need to hear it, see it, feel it. People are watching how we act. Our lives have to match our words. If it does, the impact could be massive.
“Before you share, make sure you feed your own soul. Guard your heart. Do not allow your busyness to squeeze out the time needed to keep company with our Lord. With God blessing our way, let’s not be nibblers of the possible, but grabbers of the impossible. Believe what others don’t believe – see through the lens of service. Inspire and produce red hot Salvationists who are committed to holy living. Ignite compassion where it doesn’t exist. Rekindle it where it has gone out.
“God is calling, ‘Salvation Army! Rise up! Like Lazarus, take off the grave clothes that have bound you.’”
With the challenge still ringing in their ears, the newest officers of the Southern Territory joined other Salvationists and friends who were streaming out with challenge to “Rise up!”

Testimony: A Story of Hope From The Salvation Army’s Camp Hidden Lake
BY QUENTARIUS ROSSI wish I had known about camp when I was younger. I wish I had known about The Salvation Army. It would have changed my whole background and perspective on life.
I didn’t even know The Salvation Army was a church. I thought it was just an organization that gives clothes and food and helps people when they need it. And I certainly didn’t know there was a camp for kids.
I first learned about Camp Hidden Lake—The Salvation Army’s camp for the Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi Division—seven years ago. I was walking down the street when the pastor of the local Salvation Army stopped and started talking to me. He asked if I wanted to attend the Tuesday program for children in the neighborhood. I was a shy kid and wasn’t sure about going, but I said yes anyway.
Tuesday rolls around, and sure enough, the pastor pulls up in The Salvation Army van to take me, my brothers and sisters to the program. We were greeted by loud music and children having fun and eating snacks, and I thought, hey, this is like a party! So when the pastor later asked if I wanted to get more involved in church activities, I was on board!
Before camp, it was very difficult for me to make friends. I was a shy kid and would get picked on for not talking enough. I got bullied for my skin color, how I looked, and what I did or didn’t do. After a while, I just stopped trying because I didn’t want to feel that rejection anymore.
My very first year of camp changed me. My new friends and camp counselors gave me the confidence to find my voice and helped me learn about God and how He can help you in any situation. Now, I have a lot of friends from all over that come to camp every year. I’ve known them for so long that I consider them family.
Here at camp, I feel like I’m home. You turn around and smile, then turn the corner and smile some more.
“Saturday Night...” continued from page 1
During the weekend, many music and arts leaders from the Southeast were honored with awards and recognition, culminating in a special presentation to Commissioner Paul Kellner on Saturday evening.
“Tonight, we have a special award for someone who has given a lifetime of service, not only to the Southern Territory, but to the world,” said Simmons-Smith in reference to Commissioner Kellner. “Someone who has been faithful where the Lord and The Salvation Army has sent him and his dear wife. Someone who has written countless pieces of music for various territories, session songs, recordings at the EBS, musicals, some of our first contemporary songs, and selections that have gone on to become Salvation Army Songbook favorites.”
The presentation was backed by the sharing of “Risen Savior” from the Southern Territorial Band, highlighting a piece written by Commissioner Kellner and appropriately conducted by his son, Dr. Steve Kellner. In the moments following the awards presentation, it was revealed by Commissioner Willis Howell, territorial commander, the Southern Territorial Band and Southern Territorial Songsters will now be known as the Southern Staff Band and Southern Staff Songsters.
This momentous change comes a few de -

This is my first year as an instructor. I’m a ropes course instructor and also assist with music. I never thought I was a good teacher or leader, but this year at camp showed me differently. I discovered I could lead well and that I enjoyed teaching. I was teaching a class one morning when it dawned on me that I could do this, and it felt good.
For example, one particular camper didn’t even know how to hold a trumpet, and by the end of the camp, her playing was incredible. She was so good that I would have believed she had played before. And I was part of making that happen.
I feel like I’ve made an impact on lives, and it’s given me a direction for my future.
I think about the campers long after they are gone. I make the time to get to know them. Some come from broken homes, so it’s hard leaving camp. Before leaving, they told me how much they would miss me and how they couldn’t wait to come back.
I feel like I’ve impacted lives, and it’s given me a direction for my future. After high school, I’m going on to a community college and then a university.
Quentarius Ross is currently enrolled in nursing school which he credits to The Salvation Army.
cades after the reformation of the Southern Territorial Band following its disbandment due to financial considerations. The “Staff Band” and “Staff Songsters” designations align with those from other territories across the globe, with the grand reveal of new stand banners, epaulets, and uniform characteristics for both ensembles.
Moments later, a younger generation was represented by Anthony Barrington. Barrington, a graduate student at Yale University, shared a video testimony before performing a solo titled “Victorious” with accompaniment from the staff band.
Later in the program, the ARC Massed Choir, led by Major Jim Shiels, sang a powerful collective testimony of “Why We Sing,” before Lights Up, a creative arts ensemble from the North & South Carolina Division, presented a stirring drama. TAM and the Southern Staff Songsters joined forces on “Rise and Fall,” a dramatic presentation with the backing of the second movement of “To the Chief Musician,” and the Atlanta International Chamber Ensemble provided reflective and excellent musical work through strings.
Following a powerful rendition of a featured brass work titled “Laudate Dominum” from the Southern Staff Band, Simmons-Smith brought a message of challenge and inspiration to those assembled. His words resonated as a strong cul -
Breakout Sessions Equip Leaders
BY BRAD ROWLANDAmid a jam-packed weekend of large-scale gatherings, soldiers and officers of The Salvation Army USA Southern Territory took a deeper dive on Saturday, June 4. As part of the worship arts emphasis during the Commissioning festivities in Atlanta, attendees were able to attend a pair of informational and engaging breakout sessions with the aim of equipping leaders for future work at the corps level.
Breakout offerings were wide-ranging in nature. Special guest William Himes, O.F., conducted a session on brass band fundamentals titled “Beyond the Beat,” offering instruction on the best techniques to lead an ensemble, prepare a rehearsal, and support Sunday morning worship. Special guest Linda Himes instructed on “God’s Word for God’s People,” a breakout offered in both sessions and dedicated to inductive Bible Study and the application of God’s Word to one’s life.
As a bridge between both sessions, a panel of four engaging speakers shared on “Innovative Evangelism,” with facilitation from Bernie Dake, territorial communications director. During the opening, late-morning session, the speakers offered a glimpse into what was to come in the afternoon, all in one place. From there, each split into a full hour of dedicated instruction and teaching, with emphases on techniques and habits to cultivate a spirit of evangelism, the aim to be an effective, evangelism-driven corps, as well as approaches to social media in the modern age.
“We’re grateful to these speakers in particular for bringing challenging talks on this area of concern, in addition to the panel discussion,” said Nick Simmons-Smith, territorial music secretary.
In the morning 4 speakers were invited to speak on Innovative Evangelism techniques. Major Julio DaSilva, Captain Liz Blusiewicz, Major Angel Calderon, and Emaniel Brifil brought challenging talks on this area of concern, and then participated in a panel discussion at the end of the session. These speakers all presented breakouts in the afternoon session.
In the music and arts realm, sessions included a focus on choral music for all ages, multigenerational worship team leading, visual arts in worship, and creative choreography, with Simmons-Smith leading a breakout titled “The Golden Hour.” This was a focus on worship planning, examining the essential elements of a Sunday service, the crucial decisions on what should be included, and how to facilitate a worship atmosphere that is God-honoring, inspirational, and challenging.
“The hope for these sessions was to give information, best practices, techniques, and resources to help the field,” Simmons-Smith said. “It was pleasing to see so many people take up this opportunity in the context of a very busy weekend. We hope that the skills learned in these sessions, and the conversations during, will inspire others to take on leadership at the corps level.”
mination of the evening and a reminder to keep the momentum as attendees return to local corps and communities.
Fittingly, a memorable and stirring program concluded with the final movement of “To the Chief Musician,” with cadets of the Messengers of Reconciliation session joining with the band, choir, and creative arts groups for a massed presentation. This punctuated an inspirational evening that not only showcased the considerable talents of artists in the territory, but also facilitated meaningful worship and expression.
Camp Keystone Florida Men Stand Strong
BY MARIA MATHEUS“Men’s Camp.”
When Major Henry Morris, Florida DHQ Secretary of Program, uttered those two words and invited me to participate in it, I dutifully accepted the assignment of reporting on it. I pulled myself up at the bootstraps, quite literally in combat boots, placed my hair in a baseball hat, and quietly slipped into the background of the 2022 Men’s ‘Stand Strong’ Camp, taking care to give the guests and attendees the space they needed to convene in fellowship. I was determined to understand how men’s camp differs from a women’s retreat, at the least to get a distinct point of view.
As I had previously reported on the Florida Women’s Retreat, I noted that though the focus of both the men’s and women’s retreats challenge one in their Christian walk, the men’s retreat is set apart by the competitive nature of sports built into the event program, and there were a ton of sports and game activities the men could choose from. It was a matter of deciding which one appealed to them at a given time.
In between sports, worship and sitting down to eat in fellowship, there were many special guests present throughout the weekend at Camp Keystone, like Lt. Colonel James Seiler, territorial business administrator, Atlanta, GA, Captain Damon Graham, ARC Officer, Hampton Roads, VA, recording music artist Damien Horne, and Lt. Colonel Ken Luyk, divisional commander, each one providing special testimony that touched the hearts of the men, mine included.
The first speaker up at bat was Emaniel (E.B.) Brifil, representing the Tampa Corps, with a moving spoken word testimonial, poetic in its delivery, which stirred at the core of one’s heart, if not the minds of the men in attendance. “What are we doing daily to grow in Him? This weekend is more than about the fun and the games…men who will be more focused on the glory of God than friendly banter and competition.”
He further illustrated divisive times that should not separate one from another by putting more effort into building the Kingdom of God, then into an ideology, a right wing or a left wing. “Men who will have an allegiance to God and not to a particular nation.”
E.B. encouraged the men to know about their fellow brother in Christ, to stand strong with them, “in times of joy and congratulations, but also in times of trials and tribulations.”
Lt. Colonel Luyk followed up by referencing the strength of retired 1992 Olympian British sprinter, Derek Anthony Redmond, who despite not finishing a four hundred meters semi-final because of a torn hamstring, became the face of hope, humanity, and perseverance. “When things do not end up the way you planned, when you messed up, when you went the wrong way, when you made some bad decisions, does anyone know
the impact it may make?” Lt. Colonel Luyk asked. He then invited everyone to bring their brokenness into the sanctuary, to find healing and redemption.
On Saturday, the next speaker up at bat was the lively, spirited testimonial given by new soldier, Pablo Lanes, Naples Corps, who drew a bit of laughter from the camp attendees. He talked about making some bad choices in life, he also mentioned how at three points in his youth he could have gotten into more serious trouble, but God had a plan in his life, and he survived unscathed.
“The Lord had a plan,” Pablo said, “The truth is, the way I lived my life, I should not be here talking to you today. On three separate occasions, I have been shot at, by some miracle I have never been hit. I always wondered why, but I can tell you with certainty the Lord had a plan.” He continued, “Through the corps I was introduced to a life of selflessness, servitude and filled with the Holy Spirit, that, my brothers, was the Lord’s plan.”


Pablo humorously continued, “I don’t drive an old school Chevy with the 20’s, I drive the corps bus with twenty screaming kids.” Referencing the behavior of his youth, “There is only one thing that would make me go back to the ‘old’ me, that is if anyone ever hurt my kids,” pausing a moment, he said, “Sorry, that was just meant for my daughter’s boyfriend, who’s here today,” drawing more welcome laughter in the room.
“I know now what it means to be a real man, it is to stand strong against the lies of the enemies and to find peace and strength in Jesus Christ, which is where you will find fulfillment and the life that He planned for you.” Pablo finished his witty, engaging testimony by adding “God has a plan for my life, and He has a plan for yours as well.”
With that said, Captain Damon Graham, approached the pulpit to give his seat rousing message, titled “I want to be strong, but you don’t understand” chest thumping exhortation, speaking to the men in the WAC about character and excellence, especially when it comes to the unsupervised areas of their lives. “Character is who we really are in the unsupervised areas of our life. It is not what one does in the dark, but what one does in the light,” he said.
The captain then asked what being ‘strong’ looks like by reflecting on the first miracle of Jesus, when Jesus turns water into wine at the wedding feast at Cana, a story about what takes place in each individual soul as it begins to hear one’s spiritual calling. The invitation of union with our higher self, union with God is key in the miracle of turning water into wine.
“If you do what the Word says it is important

because you do not know at what point in the process your water is going to turn into wine.” He continued, “You do not know at what point in the process you will be healed.” When God causes miracles, He does not want us to just believe in miracles, He wants us to believe in Him. The point is not the message but the messenger.
Standing at the pulpit, Lt. Colonel James Seiler gave heartrending testimony of his lovely wife, Karol, whom despite having health challenges is healing and improving because of the power of prayer. Focusing on Matthew 7, he turned to the men and said, “I don’t know what the need is, but knock on the door, gentlemen.” Later in the evening at Vespers, Colonel Seiler reminded everyone again to lean on each other in prayer, reflecting on John 15:1-8, saying no branch can bear fruit by itself, and challenging the men to spend time in God’s word, that way we show God’s glory to others.
The rewarding experience of a Christian open-air retreat, like men’s camp, is that it can help to transform lives, providing an opportunity for the men to decompress, sharing fellowship, vigorously competing in sports as evidenced by the winning teams that came out on top, like Winter Haven winning at basketball and football, or Miami Sunset winning in softball.
The bonus of men’s camp also highlights fostering friendship too. That point could not be more succinct than in Major Mark Satterlee’s video message taped earlier via ‘The Salvation Army Florida Men’s Ministries’ Facebook page. He asks, “Can you name six men who will one day carry your casket into church?” He then reminds us, like one’s mother may have said, ‘to have a friend, you must be a friend,’ referencing scripture in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, “If either of them falls, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.” Men should stand strong, but not stand alone, especially in Christ.
With the assignment of reporting on men’s camp completed what have I (the writer) come away with? Men, like women, should lift each other up. We need to enable our sisters to help their brothers stand strong, we need to support one another in their walk in Christ, by being an example and allowing them the space to do so.
In closing out the weekend retreat, Major Henry Morris, said, “My prayer is that we do not leave here the same way we came, when we leave here, the Holy Spirit is in us, and working through us, and changing us in a mighty way, that God is using us, and will use us in a mighty way.”













Presence and Participation
BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE
One of the great problems for the Church since emerging from the pandemic is the number of people who still are not returning to live worship. While we understand some have health issues, the overwhelming majority of those who have not come back have learned that staying home is easier to do. If they want to worship, they watch something on television or open a link online. In that there was already a problem with steadily declining church attendance, this long-term outcome of Covid has made a bad situation worse.
Why are people not returning?
Perhaps one reason is because even when people were attending, they were occupied with entertainment, spectators watching the religious performance before them. Better lighting, sound, and church buildings looking more like arenas and sound stages have pushed the idea that the show is reserved for the talented. Sadly, the artistic are not necessarily the ones whose lives match the songs they sing or the words they speak. Actors can act even if they do not believe in the lines
they communicate. That has always been a problem but one that seems to be growing.
The spectators realize that the show will go on whether they are there or not. “Why not stay home, miss the traffic, sip my iced tea while wearing my bathrobe? Those people really don’t need me. And if I’m not there, who will notice?”
The passive passengers on the good ship Salvation Army did not take their deck chairs overnight. Those who are the crew have been encouraging them to sit back and relax, enjoy the ride and leave the hard work to the chosen few. So, the ship continues to sail with more and more empty deck chairs.
Perhaps we need less professionalism and more people participation. Can’t someone other than the officer pray? Why are testimony times rarely, if ever, allowed? Shouldn’t Susie be able to sing a solo even if she misses some notes? Can Joe be given the chance to read the Bible even if he stumbles while doing it? And that young person might mumble through her five-minute sermon but are only the gifted allowed to proclaim salvation?
One of the secrets of the early Army is that everyone was given a job to do. Maybe people will return when they sense that it matters if they are there.
WE ARE AN ARMY!
The All-Volunteer Army
BY DR. STEVE KELLNER
For most of our country’s history our military forces have been made up entirely of volunteers, those who enlist of their own free will. Only in times of national emergency—the Civil War and the two World Wars—has a military draft been necessary. But a strange thing happened after World War II. The draft continued even though our country was not at war. Note: We have been involved in no officially declared war since WWII.
Some very famous Americans had their lives and careers disrupted by this new permanent draft. The great baseball player Willie Mays was drafted just after he had won the National League Rookie of the Year award and missed almost two full seasons of play. Elvis Presley, at the time the biggest star in popular music and one of the most recognizable people in the world, was drafted at the height of his fame in 1958. And Muhammed Ali was stripped of his world heavyweight boxing championship for resisting the draft on religious grounds in 1967.
The problem with the permanent draft became clear during the Vietnam War when millions of young Americans were drafted to serve. Because the war was unpopular in both the military and on the home front, our military suffered significant breeches of discipline, including insubordination, widespread drug use, and racial strife. These issues occurred overwhelmingly among draftees, not volunteers, and greatly affected the fighting
effectiveness of our military units in the field, even threatening to break apart our military services completely.
In response to this crisis Congress instituted the all-volunteer force, raising pay, improving training, and providing better family support to attract volunteer enlistees, and make the draft unnecessary. This has created the effective and highly motivated military force our country has today.
The Salvation Army is and has always been an all-volunteer force. Everyone who serves within its ranks does so of their own free will. We are called to this service by our Savior Jesus Christ, a better recruiter than Uncle Sam could ever dream of being. Since He is God, He could forcibly “draft” us into His service, but He chooses not to. He only wants the willing and knows draftees won’t make effective soldiers in His Army.
Like our military forces, The Salvation Army can’t fight effectively without good order and discipline in our ranks. Insubordination and division can and has weakened our effectiveness at times in the past and more recently.
So, how can we create the conditions that will produce the most effective Salvation Army possible?
It won’t be by raising pay, as every officer, soldier, and employee knows! But we can try to make our corps and programs so radically loving and supportive that the last, the least, and the lost can’t help being drawn to them. And we can redouble our efforts to train our soldiery to show such love and support to each other and to those we serve. This will be impossible with draftees. Only volunteers can do it.
Complainers
BY DAVID NEWIn light of recent tragic events the word we’ll discuss today is “complain.” This word paints a vivid picture. Perhaps a toddler whining over an unimportant issue.

Or maybe a student pleading her case to an unbending professor.
As I thought about these associations we tend to make to the word, it dawned on me that the term is only used by those witnessing others committing the act. The toddler would never admit he is complaining. Neither would the college student. She was merely attempting to persuade the professor to see her point of view. Because of the nature in which we use this word to describe anyone but ourselves, there is an unspoken yet accepted negative connotation to it.
To go further into the word, there are many synonyms for this term. Venting, reviewing, reflecting—you name it. Anything to make it seem more mature or professional.
However, there are plenty of legitimate excuses to complain. In fact, our country was built on complainers. Although they called them “grievances.” I suppose, “Here lies our totally real and valid complaints” doesn’t garner the same level of seriousness.
Or what about when you pay a lot of money to treat your family to a nice dinner? There is a level of expectation that goes along with that sort of cost. And when not met, it rightfully merits the act of complaining, be it on Yelp or Google reviews. I want to talk about some of the positives that come from complaining. Aside from the complaining you’d give to a restaurant manager that might lead to a free dessert, there are other times when it is not only acceptable to complain that can lead to a very positive outcome. How about complaining to a friend after they felt they were taken advantage of in some way? Or perhaps a wife complaining to her husband that he has not been pulling his weight in house chores? These are real scenarios that happen every day. In healthy relationships, they hopefully lead to self-evaluation for both parties and then lead to progress. But even then, for complaining to be justified it appears that there must be a guilty party involved. Or maybe not.
So what does this mean? I believe we’ve lost the plot on how we talk to God.
Psalm 13 is not a portion of Scripture often read aloud or in public settings. It’s not very uplifting. It was written, as many psalms were, by David. For all the riches he acquired, all the amazing stories he was a part of, and all the mistakes he made, David was a man with flaws. We often overshadow these shortcomings with the amazing stories of his heroism, but I don’t think means we should think less of him. There were times when David could not see past his own palace doors. But when those moments came, David occasionally did something we all can do a bit more. He complained. And let me tell you, he complained pretty aggressively.
Not only did he complain, he complained to God. Some would call that boldness. I would argue it’s an example of a faith I one day hope to have. A relationship-based faith so unwavering and honest, it’s as though he’s complaining to a very close friend.
How long, LORD? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
(Psalm 13:1)
In this one verse David already says something so incredibly daring. I would be scared to say those words to my wife. And he’s saying them to the God of the universe. and he wrote it down! David had the nerve to keep his own receipts on the times he complained right to God.
I don’t pretend to know how God interprets our prayers, but if David spoke to God this way, that has to mean something. If we want a real relationship with God, we eventually have to break through the ritualistic nuances we’ve constructed for ourselves. If you were talking to a parent or close friend, would every single sentence be followed by their first and last name with a pause to gather your thoughts? Would you spend hours trying to figure out an elegant way to construct your next and equally surface-level-but-soundslike-what-you’re-supposed-to-say statement? Of course not. You would be real and honest, knowing that whatever you say would not take anything away from that relationship.
I’m not suggesting that we abandon all forms of respect and gratitude. But why is it that when David wants to complain, it’s acceptable and poetic, but when we want to, it’s childish? If God deserves anything other than our lives, it’s the truth. He already knows the truth. He already knows how we feel. We’re depriving ourselves of the greatest counselor to ever exist. Someone who will probably never interrupt you, I might add.
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation.
I will sing the Lord’s praise, for He has been good to me (Psalm 13:5-6).
The chapter ends with these thoughts. David truly complains. But he also never forgets the promises of love, salvation, and God’s goodness. He can fully and honestly complain because he knows it will not change who God is. And so can we. In the end, what good is complaining if you have no faith in the one you are complaining to?
Spirit of the South
100 Years Ago
Adjutant Pay, who opened The Salvation Army in Dothan, Alabama returns home on furlough. While here, he will share a lecture about The Salvation Army’s work among the criminal tribes in India, where he has been serving. The meeting will take place in The Salvation Army tent at the corner of Foster and Crawford Streets. (Dothan Eagle, July 20, 1922)


75 Years Ago
The Salvation Army in Austin, Texas began clearing a three-acre site at the corners of San Marcos and Holly Streets. With the help of the Kiwanis Club, the Army is constructing a new citadel and gymnasium, complete with a playground. Captain John Jordan, in charge of the youth work here, shared that this is the result of a $50,000 campaign held in 1946. ( Austin AmericaStatesman, July 29, 1947)
50 Years Ago
The Salvation Army’s Singing Ambassadors will perform in Rocky Mount, North Carolina as part of a revival series here. The group is composed of young Salvationist college students. They include David Hansen, Jim Greer, Donnie Smith and Cadet Vern Siebert, along with two officers, Lieutenants John Jones and George Hilton. Captain Jess Duncan, the corps officer, said, “We would like to extend a most cordial invitation to everyone in the Rocky Mount area to attend the concerts and revival services. We are sure they will be more than pleased with the Singing Ambassadors’ offerings.” (Rocky Mountain Telegram, July 17, 1972)
25 Years Ago
The Salvation Army in Fort Pierce, Florida announced that it has reached half of the $600,000 needed for its new building. Aux. Captain Ken Bagley shared that the new building could come none too soon given the increasing number of people coming to the Army to seek help. (Indian River Press Journal, Vero Beach, Florida, July 12, 1997)

World Services Report: Nigeria
Solar Energy Project for THQ and Officer Training College
BY MAJOR RAY COOPER, TERRITORIAL OVERSEAS PROJECTS OFFICEROne of the great disciplines of serving within the ranks of The Salvation Army is the gift that is given to each of us to in turn support our Army brothers and sisters around the world through our World Services effort. The territorial office of Overseas Projects exists to process such requests and to give financial assistance to these projects. A portion of our annual territorial campaign is reserved to support these ventures.
On behalf of a grateful international Salvation Army, thank you for your support, both financially and prayerfully.
NIGERIA – Solar Energy Project for THQ and Officer Training College
In the Nigeria Territory we recently had the opportunity of supporting their project to generate solar energy for the territorial headquarters and officer training college in the city of Lagos.
Under the leadership of Commissioners Daniel and Tracey Kasuso, the ministry of the Army in Nigeria covers 192 corps with 21,685 senior soldiers and 8,259 junior soldiers. At the officer training college, 49 cadets are currently preparing for full time service as Salvation Army officers.
Business activities that survive on electricity have been dwindling as the result of the Nigerian government’s inability to provide a constant electricity supply. Thus, generated electricity is rationed. Every location or environment in Nigeria has a number of days and hours they are allocated to have electric light in a week. Still, constant power supply for the allocated few days and hours in a week is not guaranteed.
The Nigerian THQ experienced an over 200% increase in electricity tariff. Where the average monthly electricity bill for THQ in 2019 was 400,000 naira (US $966), recently that cost has risen to 1,500,000-naira (US $3,623). By year-end the cost is estimated to reach 2,000,000 naira (US $4,830).
The territory invited a few solar energy experts to carry out a survey of THQ facilities. Their

recommendation is that THQ should be powered with solar energy, which should put an end to the exorbitant electricity bill and diesel consumption.
The solar energy proposed to be installed consists of, and is not limited to the following:
• Solar PV panels and inverters.
• Web and mobile application for energy metering and monitoring.
• Complete installation fee.
• Solar lead-acid battery/battery storage system.
God is working through The Salvation Army! God is working through our communities! God is working through you! God is working through this territory! During the month of June, we traditionally take a moment to express our deep appreciation for the generosity of soldiers and friends of The Salvation Army for helping make such an incredible difference through choosing to sacrifice something in your life, which enables you to GIVE to Salvation Army World services.
Thank you, and God bless you!



PROMOTED TO GLORY
Appointments
On behalf of the Territorial Commander, we are very pleased to announce the following appointments:
Effective June 20, 2022
Evangeline Booth College: School for Officer Training
Captain Laurie A. Ferráez Director of Family Life Center—Atlanta, GA
Captain Rebekah F. Swyers
Assistant Director of Curriculum—Atlanta, GA
Arkansas & Oklahoma Division
Major Crystal A. Pruitt Corps Officer—Lawton, OK
Major Raymond N. Pruitt Corps Officer—Lawton, OK
Effective June 27, 2022
Arkansas & Oklahoma Division
Lieutenant Risa N. Robinson Corps Officer—Stillwater, OK Georgia Division
Major Sandra J. Pawar Corps Officer—Atlanta (International), GA
Captain Ashish S. Pawar Corps Officer—Atlanta (International), GA
North & South Carolina Division
Major Angie Repass Corps Officer—Hickory, NC
Major David Repass Corps Officer—Hickory, NC
Effective September 1, 2022
Evangeline Booth College: School for Leadership Development
Commissioner Barbara Howell
Assistant Principal for School for Leadership Development
Please join us in praying God’s blessings on these leaders as they prepare to move into these new responsibilities.
Major George William Cundiff
Major George William Cundiff was promoted to Glory on June 9, 2022. Born December 17, 1945, to Glen and Rachael Cundiff in Syracuse, Ohio, Will Cundiff served as an officer in The Salvation Army from 1979 until 2012 when he retired from active service.

His greatest passion was sharing the love of Jesus Christ. Will married Sue Antle on January 20, 1968. Together they had three sons, Michael, Brett, and Joel. Will and Sue were commissioned on June 3, 1979, with the “Joyful Evangelist” session of cadets. Together, they served in Selma, Tupelo, and Shreveport, in the ALM Division. The Cundiffs also served in Lubbock as the Divisional Evangelists, and in San Angelo in the Texas Division.
Then they traveled to Russia, serving as regional officers in Moldova. Following that appointment, they served as area commanders for Southern MS before moving THQ as Territorial Evangelist. Their final appointment was in Doraville, GA, before retiring on January 1, 2012. They
Salvation Army Corps Mission
Associate (CMA) – Panama City, FL
The Panama City, FL Corps is looking for an experienced mission professional to join their team as the Corps Mission Associate (CMA). Housing and a vehicle are provided. Corps programming ability is required, musical ability is a plus. Involvement in all corps programs, some social service outreach and Christmas work is involved. Panama City Corps is well-resourced and popular in the community. The Corps Mission Associate subscribes to, adheres to, and shares the Doctrines, Mission, and Positions of The Salvation Army Serves as an evangelist to the community and constituency of the Corps; develops and leads worship services and ministerial programs; provides spiritual guidance and leadership to the same. Serve the Corps by assisting the Corps Officer in planning, coordinating, administrating, monitoring, evaluating, and developing the day-

were active officers for over 32 years.
Will’s service took him from a small town in Selma, Alabama where he served as a corps officer to the far reaches of Eastern Europe where he served as a missionary and oversaw the opening of the Salvation Army’s work in Romania and Moldova.
In his paperwork, Will stated, “In May of 1976 while attending the evangelistic meeting in Columbus, MS, I felt the call to officership after hearing Colonel Cleveland preach. I went to the altar to rededicate myself and as I got up to go to my seat, I looked around me at what seemed to be a sea of army uniforms and it seemed the Lord spoke to me audibly and said, these are your brothers and those are your sisters, welcome home. Crying, I felt at home and at peace for the first time in a long while.
“I have since being converted been a ready witness for Christ both in secular and church related activities. I believe any effort as a witness is a small way a part of winning others to Christ. I have been allowed by God to witness to many people in many ways and I thank him for every opportunity. I am in myself nothing but through Christ and His power I am all things to all men that I might win some.”
He is survived by his wife Sue and three sons Micky, Brett and Joel. Will also is survived by 10 grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren.
to-day operations of the Corps; develops and leads religious programs; participates in social service programs providing assistance to people in need; coordinates arrangements for seasonal programs and recruits/supervises volunteers for the same; Supervises and schedules Corps groups, community outreach programs, and social service work; monitors and maintains adequate financing and budgetary compliance of the Corps operations. Participates in providing assistance to people in need. Must be an active, uniform-wearing, Salvationist in good standing. For questions about the position, please contact Ashley Gentry (ashley.gentry@uss.salvationarmy.org).
To apply, please visit The Salvation Army Careers website at https://southernusa. salvationarmy.org/uss/careers and reference Job ID #20754.
USA Southern Territorial Headquarters
The following are job listings at Territorial Headquarters in Atlanta:
• Donor Data Analyst (CRD – Interchange Department)
• Grants & Contracts Assistant (Social Services Department)
• Grants Management Specialist (Social Services Department)
• Employee Relations Manager (Human Resources Department)
• Resources Development Support Services Coordinator (CRD – Resource Development)
• Food Services Work (Conference Center)
• Bible Course Grader (Social Services Department)
• Administrative Assistant II (Social Services Department)
To obtain further information regarding Southern Territory Headquarters job opportunities and/or for application options, please visit The Salvation Army Careers website at www.salvationarmycareers.org or contact the Southern Territory Headquarters Human Resources Department.
New Orleans Women’s Auxiliary Launches Campaign for Renovation of Transitional Housing
The Salvation Army of Greater New Orleans Women’s Auxiliary recently launched a $200,000 capital campaign to renovate and update 20 apartments in the Center of Hope that give respite to daily challenges for families in our area when they need it most. Everything from the interior walls to flooring, lighting, plumbing, and cabinetry is being upgraded or replaced to convert what admittedly are somewhat drab apartments due to extensive wear and tear and hurricane damage into more inviting, modern living spaces.
“Our goal is to lift people up and create an atmosphere that promotes dignity, self-sufficiency and hope,” notes Cathy Espenan, president of the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary. As Espenan adds, “We want to do more than just provide a roof over someone’s head. We want Center of Hope guests to experience warmth and comfort, so this experience becomes the beacon of hope needed to bring stability in their lives.”
In response to the campaign, on April 7, the Women’s Auxiliary hosted a thank you for all donors at the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA). In addition to food, drink, a fashion show by the upscale boutique Ballin’s, and a special viewing of the Nefertari Exhibit, nearly 300 guests were on hand to honor the first-ever Women of Grace Award Recipient—New Orleans Saints and

Pelican’s owner Gayle Benson. Mrs. Benson was recognized for her Capital Campaign donation and her ongoing generosity to non-profits across the city, and her love of everything New Orleans. Leading the organization of the NOMA event was Major Lynda Thornhill, co-commander in New Orleans. She, along with a dedicated committee, worked for months on organizing and planning. As Major Thornhill noted, not only was it the first major Salvation Army public event to occur since the beginning of the pandemic, but it came on the heels of two natural disasters that hit the area, Hurricane Ida and an EF-3 tornado that ripped through the New Orleans area just two weeks
Wings Of Faith: The Remarkable Life Of Harry Read
BY MAJOR FRANK DURACHERThe life of Commissioner Harry Read is chronicled by author Dawn Volz in an exciting account prefaced by General Brian Peddle.
“You will be inspired by Wings Of Faith,” General Peddle writes. “It beautifully captures the story of Commissioner Harry Read and his dedication to God. I hope we will each aspire to live such a life.”

The book title draws genesis from Isaiah 40:31— But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
Volz’s tender treatment of Commissioners Harry & Win Read spans four decades. It was this life of serving his Heavenly Father that prompted the award of The Salvation Army’s highest honor, the Order Of The Founder, by General Peddle in 2019.
The book will be of great interest not only to those who worked alongside the Reads while they served in the Canada & Bermuda Territory, but to fellow Salvationists in all four USA territories who knew and loved Harry and his wife, Win.
God captured Harry’s heart long before he responded to the call to Salvation Army Officership. It was this dramatic, divine reality that set the course for a lifetime of outstanding service.
Parachuting into France with the 6th Airborne Division on D-Day in 1944, 20 year-old Harry spent a harrowing time as a wireless operator in the trenches on the Normandy battlefields. Following his meritorious service in the British Army, the rest of his life was spent in another army—The Salvation Army—where he and his wife eventually became esteemed international leaders on three continents. Marry made worldwide news when at the age of 95 he skydived with the famed British Red Devils on the 75th anniversary of D-Day in 2019.
Harry’s remarkable life story, impelled by his Christian faith, makes for inspirational, uplifting, and heartwarming reading.
Read himself was an accomplished author, producing Words Of Life (1992-2002), No Heart More Tender, Heart Talk, and Language Of The Soul.
Wings Of Faith is available in hard cover, paperback, and in the United States through Amazon. All proceeds from sales of the book will go to the Anti-Trafficking Department at The Salvation Army’s International Headquarters in London—a cause close to Harry’s heart.

before the event. “We were overwhelmingly surprised by the attendance and the support we received from area restaurants who donated food and others who donated supplies and their time. Our region has been impacted by so many misfortunes; a lot of people are still trying to rebuild their lives following COVID, a hurricane, and then a tornado, and yet, so many generously donated to support our capital campaign. It was a wonderful evening that was well received and more importantly, it was a celebration for a cause that will impact the lives of thousands who come to us when most in need.”
WORD SEARCH
Chief Secretaries of the USA Southern Territory

BAILEY BUKIEWICZ
BUSBY
CHANDLER
COOPER
DAVIDSON
DEBEVOISE
DITMER
FEENER
GILLIARD
WORD LIST:
GOODIER
GRIFFIN
GSWYERS
HERNDON
HINSON
HODDER
HOFFMAN
JEFFREY
LONGINO
Answers on page 10
MARPUNG
MARSHALL
NORRIS
PATON
PSWYERS
RAMSDALE SMEETON
TAYLOR
TILLSLEY