Southern Spirit APR 2023 - Vol 39 Issue 4

‘IT IS FINISHED’

An Easter Message from General Peddle

JOHN 19:30

This Easter comes as Salvation Army leaders from around the world have been called together to elect a new General. The privilege of serving in the role of international leaders is now coming to an end for Commissioner Rosalie and me, and we seek to complete what we had set out to do. Soon we will need to say, “It is finished.”

So when I reflect on Easter, I am drawn to the words of Jesus on the cross: “It is finished.” But how much more profound are those words on Jesus’ lips as recorded in John 19:30. His earthly life and ministry—the greatest of all human lives and the most far-reaching of all ministries—was complete.

It is finished.

But the words “It is finished” take on yet deeper meaning when we consider that Jesus spoke them in His own language of Aramaic, so the word He used indicates complete submission—completed before He died. In Christ, God-who-couldnot-die voluntarily and completely submitted to becoming human. In so doing He experienced pain, suffering and death itself. Paul echoes this in Philippians 2:5-8 (NRSV) when he writes, “Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though He was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death—even death on a cross.” Jesus clothes Himself with our humanity. He understands us. He experienced the extremity of a public execution with all its

humiliation. His identification with us in the human experience—including pain, suffering and death—stands completed.

It is finished.

When John later wrote his Gospel in Greek, he recorded “It is finished” as the last words of Jesus, using a word from the world of finance meaning “paid in full.” So the evangelist reminds us that, in Jesus’ complete submission, He paid the debt of sin for all humanity. On the cross, our account has been paid in full. Paul connects “paid in full” with no longer counting our sins and the important emphasis of reconciliation through the cross.

He describes this in 2 Corinthians 5:19 (NIV): “God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them... .” Sin is no longer the issue—the only thing of importance is how we will respond to a Savior who has paid the account in full.

It is finished.

At the start of the year, I affirmed the ‘once and for all God.’ In Romans 6:10 we read: “The death He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life He lives, He lives to God.” God’s provision for us began with a new covenant, commencing with the cross. Once and for all. Paid in full. Hebrews 9:28 reminds us that Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many, including us, while John 1:29 proclaims, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (ESV). That is my sin, and your sin.

It is finished.

In the truth that Christ died once and for all, there is also the truth that He lives, and because He lives, we can live also. This is the essence of the Easter message. No matter what comes, the truth of God’s action on our behalf remains rock solid. No matter what comes, we are safe in His hands and fully aware of His provision. No matter what comes, we can live as “more than conquerors” and “overcomers in the midst of all things,” because His grace is sufficient and He is faithful. Romans 5:8 says: “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” It’s done! For once and for all time … and that changes everything.

It is finished.

Commissioner Rosalie joins me in sending you warm Easter greetings.

2023 High Council Announced

The 2023 Salvation Army High Council will be held at Sunbury Court Conference Centre, commencing formally on 18 May 2023.

According to Mark Bennett, Senior Legal Counsel to the General and International Headquarters (IHQ), “The purpose of the High Council is to elect a new General for The Salvation Army in accordance with the Salvation Army Act (1980).”

Recognized as a deeply spiritual occasion as well as being a legal requirement, the High Council offers the international leadership of The Salvation Army the opportunity to elect the man or woman of their choice to lead the Army for the next five years. Every active Salvation Army officer is eligible to be elected as General.

Global leaders will be issued with a formal summons to attend the High Council by the Chief of the Staff, Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham. He will then preside over the opening of the High Council until a President has been elected.

The public welcome to the High Council and farewell to General Brian Peddle and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle (World President of Women’s Ministries) will be held on 20 May 2023 in Westminster Central Hall, London. Free tickets for this event will be available on a first come, first served basis and further information on this event will follow.

Commands Upgraded to Territories

The General’s Council has decided to rename a number of commands as territories, with effect from 1 March 2023.

For many years The Salvation Army Year Book has referred to these commands as “small territories.” General Brian Peddle, with the help of The General’s Council, has agreed to make that recognition formal and discontinue the use of the term ‘command.’ The Salvation Army will now simply refer to “territory” when describing a geographic area of its work.

Reflecting on this change, the General said, “This is a significant moment in Army history as it recognizes the commitment to God’s mission by Salvationists in places that may not be as large numerically. International Headquarters remains committed to supporting our work across 133 countries and now 58 territories . We seek to better understand each geographical area and then act in the best interests to advance the mission.”

Those areas currently referred to as “regions” will continue to be referred to as regions.

The following commands became territories on 1 March:

Angola Bangladesh

Hong Kong and Macau

Italy and Greece

Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea Russia

Rwanda and Burundi

Spain and Portugal

As the change was made, the General commented, “This is a good day for our international Army family.”

Territorial Music and Arts Visits Carolina Divisions

BY BRAD ROWLAND

From February 22-26, the USA Southern Territory music and arts ensembles set forth on a jampacked weekend of ministry, teaching, worship, and fellowship in the North and South Carolina Division. The USA Southern Staff Band, Southern Staff Songsters, and Territorial Arts Ministries (TAM) assembled in a joint venture, with diverse ministries across multiple locations.

“It was wonderful to be together with the band, songsters, and TAM,” said Nick Simmons-Smith, territorial music and creative arts education secretary. “The fellowship was rich and the ministry partnership powerful.”

Due to the nature of each ensemble and only a small handful of gatherings annually, the first day was spent in intensive rehearsal. Camp Walter Johnson hosted the groups for the weekend, with a 12-hour schedule aimed at preparing the groups for what was in store.

On Friday, the songsters and band visited Weaver Academy, a magnet high school near Greensboro focused on performing and visual arts, as well as advanced technology. In addition to musical performances from both ensembles, the presentation was interactive, with broad instruction on instrumentation and poignant words from Captains Chris and Carla Raymer, corps officers in Greensboro.

“According to the choir director at Weaver Academy, the concert was a ‘huge success!’ on Friday morning,” said Aaron Jackson, divisional music and arts director for the North and South Carolina Division. “Her students loved the concert and were engaged from the first note to the end of the Q&A session. Near the end of the concert, one student turned to Captain Carla Raymer, and asked ‘Can you pray for me and with me at the end? I’m struggling and need help.’ According to Captain Raymer, something clicked in that moment as the student teared up during prayer.”

“The school concert at Weaver Academy was a lot of fun,” said Simmons-Smith. “These high school teenagers were engaged and enthusiastic. They asked really good questions about The Salvation Army—‘How can I volunteer? What is your theology?’—The school is located close to the

Greensboro Corps, so we are also hopeful that the link will be fruitful in the days to come.”

After returning to camp for joint rehearsals, Friday evening was the kickoff of Divisional School of the Arts (DSA) rehearsals at Camp Walter Johnson. Divisional youth ensembles assembled for rehearsal and, throughout the two-day event, members of the territorial groups interspersed to offer insight and leadership, in addition to fellowship.

“The Divisional Music and Arts rehearsal weekend in the Carolinas became a mini-Music Councils with workshops, rehearsals, devotions, a mini-concert, and reading band,” Simmons-Smith said. “Members of TAM, the songsters, and the band served as instructors, presenters, and encouragers.”

Friday night’s festivities began with a welcome concert featuring the territorial ensembles before an evening rehearsal session and a collaborative reading band. After a night of rest, Saturday morning began with united devotions before the remainder of DSA’s busy rehearsal schedule and a slate of breakout sessions keyed by territorial arts leaders.

“We feel very blessed to have had members of the SSS, SSB, and TAM lead rehearsals and workshops at our music councils,” Jackson said. “We feel confident in saying that the results of this past weekend will have a direct impact moving forward on not only our divisional programs, but in our corps programs. It was exciting “Music...” continued on page 5

Photos by Abbie Aguilar, Toby Gilliam, Major Frank Duracher

BY COMMISSIONER KELLY IGLEHEART

For Millions and for Me

Awake, arise, lift up your voice, let Easter music swell; Rejoice in Christ, again rejoice and on His praises dwell.

Oh, with what gladness and surprise the saints their Savior greet;

Nor will they trust their ears and eyes but His hands and feet,

Those hands of liberal love indeed in infinite degree,

Those feet still free to move and bleed For millions and for me.

—Christopher Smart

The Easter edition of The Southern Spirit comes to us as a welcome assurance that Jesus was, Jesus is, and Jesus is to come! In December, Salvationists around the world celebrated His birth, the Incarnate Christ who came to us from His rightful place with the Father. Through Scripture, we have tracked His life on earth from boyhood to the Last Supper and Gethsemane.

On Good Friday, we recall the crucifixion who Melito of Sardis describes: “And so he was raised on a cross, and a title was fixed, indicating who it was who was being executed. Painful it is to say, but more terrible not to say…He who suspended the earth is suspended, he who fixed the heavens is fixed, he who fastened all things is fastened to the wood; the Master is outraged; God is murdered.”

Like the centurion guards, all of humanity exclaims, “Surely He was the Son of God!”

Read again the poem of Christopher Smart.

“For millions and for me” radiates within my heart and unites our souls to the fact that it was Resurrection Sunday that made the Good News of eternity with our Lord within reach for us all. “Within reach” assumes our willingness and our response to His liberal love to all humanity and to ME.

If our God is anything, He is a personal God. He desires to know you and me intimately. The Apostle Paul declared, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself to me.”

For Paul, the relationship with the risen Savior was personal. He had encountered Jesus in Acts 9 on his way to Damascus when Jesus called him by name. At the point of Paul’s interruption with Jesus, His relationship with the Messiah became inseparable, lasting into eternity. The Galatians 2:20 exclamation by Paul rightfully describes the life that all Salvationists yearn for now. Our response to the cross of Christ and the power of His resurrection demands full surrender and an “all in” life lived for Him. A personal response to His great love and work done for all of us, that we recall and celebrate at Easter time.

I notice that in my neighborhood, even the earth has begun to awake from its winter slum -

ber. The daffodils are in full bloom, the trees are budding, and the grass is a bright shade of green. The windows are down in my car and the sense of rebirth is in the air. Winter has now passed us by and springtime has emerged. I pray that this Easter season has burst forth within your heart and that you are experiencing a full life as intended by our Lord. As certain as we are that Good Friday gave way to Resurrection Sunday, we can be certain that a life fully dedicated to our Almighty King is a life pleasing unto Him and I life well lived to His glory.

Excitement Builds for Commissioning Weekend

BY BRAD ROWLAND

Excitement is building around an impactful weekend of worship, service, and fellowship from June 2-4, 2023. The Atlanta Temple Corps will host Commissioning weekend under the theme of “All In: Everyone…Everywhere—A Call to Evangelism & Discipleship Mark 16:15 ERV.” The Reflectors of Holiness session of cadets will be commissioned with a jam-packed weekend of festivities on the agenda.

From 5 pm to 9 pm ET on Saturday, June 3, a block party will be held with the aim to bring the local community into the fold, exercise the calling to evangelize to others, and put the theme of the weekend into practice. This event, held in the parking lot shared by the Atlanta Temple Corps and Territorial Headquarters, will include free admission and free food for all who would like to attend. The Southern Staff Band, Southern Staff Songsters, and transMission are set to perform, in addition to a unicyclist and much more.

Children are also encouraged to attend, with a “kid zone” in place featuring bounce houses, games, and a “Dunk the D.C.” booth. Vendors will be onsite throughout the evening, with Atlanta Area Command Corps providing opportunities to connect attendees to Salvation Army programs and services. There will also be an intentional prayer ministry onsite, with evangelistic resources distributed.

In the center of the block party event will be a “Jesus Theater” presentation from Territorial Arts Ministry (TAM) at 7 pm ET. This will be followed by a time of response and commitment, with a powerful time of reflection and worship expected.

“We want to facilitate a renewed passion of all Salvationists to see their corps and communities as Jesus does, to move them to love, and to serve the way He did,” said Commissioner Kelly Igleheart, territorial commander. “If you need encouragement, have an interest in knowing more about the Kingdom of God, and believe that our Salvation Army movement can be the catalyst to save the world, come join our Army.

A youth conference for ages 6-12 (as of June 1, 2023) will take place during the weekend’s general sessions, and childcare will be offered for ages 6 months-5 years, with pre-registration required for both tracks. Those interested in volunteering for the block party can select that option, with a free t-shirt distributed to those participating. Registration for the weekend is now open at southernspiritonline.org/commissioning-2023.

Williamsburg Is For Lovers

BY MAJOR FRANK DURACHER

If the Virginia Commonwealth’s publicity motto rings true, “Virginia Is For Lovers,” it stands to reason that Majors Julio and Luci DaSilva are in the right place as officers of the Williamsburg Corps. God’s love for us, as well as these officers’ love for their community, are the reasons this corps and its outreach are being blessed by Heaven.

On their first Sunday three years ago, only four people were in attendance, not counting the DaSilva family. On this Sunday, 60 worshippers comprise an international fabric of God’s grace and service to His people without discrimination.

The remarkable change of fortune for the corps is not just within its four walls—the community, civic clubs, churches, social service agencies, and clients are aware of the Army’s mission and ministry in this community seething with history.

When asked the secret for this explosion of growth, Major Julio responded without missing a beat: “There is no secret—it’s all about our love for these people and of God’s love for all of us!”

Case in point: extraordinary volunteers Frank and Rosemary Cristello actually met the Army online during the COVID shutdown. So impressed were they with Army worship and doctrine, they looked up the local corps and have been attending and volunteering since the lockdown ended.

“We immediately felt tremendous love and inclusion,” Frank says. “And that began the moment we met the DaSilvas.”

That response is repeated throughout the community. The advisory board loves them; corps soldiers and friends cherish them; civic clubs line up to volunteer for them. No dog is willing to bite them.

But Majors Julio and Luci are quick to deflect any praise from themselves—rightly directing any glory to God for bringing a corps from off near life-support to one of the fastest growing in the Potomac Division.

“People of our three counties (James City; Williamsburg; Upper York) are so loving, and they respond very quickly to the love (Luci and I) have for them,” Major Julio declares. “We have partnerships with all three counties’ Department of Human Services through our Pathway Of Hope outreach.”

At the height of COVID, the counties asked the Army to canvas vulnerable seniors to help process immunizations. “What we found,” says Major Luci, “was that many felt alone and forgotten. That discovery birthed our Seniors Ministry (a.k.a. “Lunch Bunch”), and it was an instant hit. In fact, we had to cut off membership to around 60 just because we don’t have the room.”

But that could change, according to Steve Gohn, serving on the property committee on the Williamsburg Advisory Board. Steve is a member of the local Lions Club and met the Army in Williamsburg while ringing bells at a kettle stand seven Christmases ago. He is savvy in retail business and helped secure the present corps building (a former newspaper plant and warehouse) and is working on present plans for expansion and renovations to meet ever-increasing needs.

“If there’s anyone I’ve seen who is Christike, it’s these two. They are the most loving, compassionate, and godly people I’ve met,” Steve says. “So any time Major Julio calls me to help in some way, the answer’s an automatic ‘yes!’ ” Steve has been called upon to do a lot for the corps program—renovations, driving a truck for toys and groceries, and even the canteen in the Christmas parade.

Sophia Harler is the advisory board chairperson. She credits the moving of God in the Army’s mission and ministry through the hard work being done by the DaSilvas.

“Our officers have a passion for children and seniors,” Sophia exclaims. “And promoting the Lord Jesus is uppermost in everything that is being done—combined with a lot of fun!”

Another advisory board member, Steve Ewell, agrees: “You can’t teach passion! Also, our board is very active and interactive with our officers.” As a realtor, Steve assists the property committee, and was also instrumental in obtaining the present facility which covers some 2.8 acres.

Both Majors DaSilva belong to two of the three local Rotary Clubs (Julio-Historical Triangle; Luci-Satellite), resulting in volunteer and financial support in corps outreach programs. Other civic clubs and churches are very involved in support and volunteering as well.

“The three Rotary Clubs provided a $20,000 grant to furnish ten computer stations in a dedicated computer lab for our clients and young people,” Major Julio says. But the salesmanship didn’t end with securing the computer lab— DaSilva then challenged the clubs to provide volunteers to teach and guide youth on Tuesday night classes.

“This guy could sell ice cubes to Alaskans,” one Rotarian was heard to say.

Surprisingly, the Williamsburg area is a microcosm of America itself—a melting-pot of nationalities and cultures. “I think this is because tourism is such a big part of this community, not to mention the shopping and great restaurants around,” says Major Julio. “Busch Gardens, Jamestowne Settlement, Colonial National Historical Park, among other sites, are drawing retirees and families to relocate and work here. We also have the College of William and Mary providing instructors for literacy and English language classes. Many families come to us that need assistance. Often, families have no church home, and we welcome them with open arms.”

Internationalism is really apparent in the makeup of the corps family. Perhaps this is because the DaSilvas—originally Brazilian who became naturalized American citizens in 2018—are especially welcoming to everyone. Major Julio speaks two languages, while Major Luci is fluent in at least three. In the privacy of their home, they speak their native Portuguese and are sharing their native tongue with daughter, Rebecca.

The corps family lovingly shares among each other. Each quarter, a much-anticipated “Festival Of Nations” is enjoyed after Sunday worship. Up to ten dishes are

prepared according to time-honored cultural recipes and displayed on tables lining the fellowship room, potluck dinner-style.

At the moment, seven members comprise the Williamsburg Advisory Board. But membership will very soon mushroom to as many as 24, according to Major Julio.

Williamsburg Chief of Police Sean Dunn is an active board member, and the police force he commands has a wonderful partnership with the Army. Police officers regularly visit the corps to mentor and instruct youngsters.

“Williamsburg appears to be a rich community” says the Chief, “but the fact is that there is a 21% poverty rate here. Need is significant, especially among the homeless population. We are all working together to do what’s best for those who are the most vulnerable in our community.”

Chief Dunn provides his officers to teach classes to youth at the corps, covering topics such as drug awareness and home safety.

“The nature of our business—as well as the nature of (the Army’s) business—insures that there is crossover,” the Chief adds. Major Julio’s ambition is for the corps to be a bridgebuilder in racial reconciliation, citizenship, and patriotism in order to break the myth that people feel they must distrust the police.

A small army of volunteers, supervised by Neva Linde, keep a three-pronged supply of distributable items: groceries, clothing, and toys. Depending on the giveaway day of any particular date, cars line up down the street for items desperately needed by families. Each car is met by one of the DaSilvas, who speak to passengers about their situation and invite them to worship services should they have no church home.

“Yes, we’ve had several families added to our corps family as a result of just those conversations,” Major Julio reports.

History and waterfront beauty abound in the three counties. Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement harkens back to 1607. Fifteen minutes away, Yorktown witnessed the 1781 siege of the British army, insuring the survival of our infant nation.

In terms of Salvation Army history in Williamsburg, the mission and ministry promoted between the James and York Rivers may prove to be a high-water mark for some time to come.

But don’t tell that to the DaSilvas. They firmly believe the best is yet to come—simply because there is enough of God’s love to go around.

“There really is no secret to phenomenal corps growth in Williamsburg, Virginia,” insists Major Julio and Luci DaSilva.

Nursery children play and learn during Sunday School

“Nothing gets done without this group!” brags Major Julio of his army of volunteers.

• The Salvation Army of Cleveland County, Oklahoma received $500,000 bookmarked for infrastructure improvements and program use. This grant allows for the bolstering of post-pandemic efforts and Cleveland County Commissioner Rod Cleveland shared his appreciation for The Salvation Army’s work and vision, indicating the organization is “always one of the top” community partners in the area. “This is a very exciting day,” said Major Charles Powell, area commander for Central Oklahoma. “It is a banner day for The Salvation Army of Cleveland County,” Powell said. “The possibilities are great. The need in Cleveland County is great, and we are committing to using these funds to be able to empower and expand our capacity to be able to meet the needs of the community.”

• The 2023 Women of Distinction Fashion Show will benefit The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs in the Charlotte, North Carolina area. The event, held on April 20 at Quail Hollow Club, will raise funds for educational opportunities and scholarships, with three “Women of Distinction” awards presented by The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary.

• In conjunction with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, The Salvation Army of Grayson County, Texas hosted the “Homeless Veterans Stand Down” event on Thursday, February 23. This event gathered more than a dozen local and regional agencies to offer a variety of services to homeless veterans, with lunch served and transportation provided to veterans and surviving spouses aiming to learn more about available benefits.

• After a two-year break due to the COVID-19 pandemic, The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary of Cabarrus and Stanly County, North Carolina held its 2023 “Souper Bowl” fundraiser on Tuesday, February 21. The event included a meal featuring soup, crackers, and dessert, as well as a bake sale and treasure trove sale. The focus was on “Hearts and Hands for Hope,” with all proceeds supporting The Salvation Army’s programming in the region.

• Ross Dress for Less, a national discount retailer, partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Green Country, Oklahoma to support its “Power Hour” homework help program. Customers who shopped in-store were given the opportunity to donate at point of sale, with Ross agreeing to match the first $400,000 in funds raised. “Kids are safer when they are in our Boys & Girls Clubs, particularly if they are home alone there are a lot of things they can get in trouble with,” said Richard White, The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs area director. “A lot of parents by the time they pick up their kids, especially if they are a single parent and they have worked all day, we have helped them get their homework done. So, when they get home, parents can spend a little bit more quality time with them.”

• In Chattanooga, Tennessee, The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary held its 10th annual “Mardi Bra” outreach event on February 21. This gathering aims to help women facing homelessness and gives them the chance to shop for necessities while also eating a meal. The Salvation Army gathers donations of new undergarments and other items, such as hygiene products, that are often overlooked, with donations also made through The Salvation Army’s Walmart registry.

New Junior Soldiers Swell Corps Rolls in High Point

BY MAJOR FRANK DURACHER

Twelve newly-enrolled junior soldiers were enrolled by Captain Ingrid Ljungholm, High Point corps officer. Hailed as a sign of coming revival in this corps, the event was witnessed by divisional youth leaders Majors Jay and Jamie Spalding, Captain Lars Ljungholm, and family, soldiers and

friends. Youth leaders Glen Andress and Sarah Toothman served as flagbearers during the enrollment. The newest junior soldiers are: Kayden Wright, King Solomon, Jaida Cole, Cam Wright, Sam Wright, Matthias Hood, Adrian Cole, Jeremy Cole, Toi Riley, Nacari Nyiam, Dawn David, and Hope Scott.

continued from page 2

to see members of the territorial ensembles also sitting next to and participating alongside our DSA delegates encouraging them in their progress.”

Saturday evening featured a showcase event at Brendle Recital Hall on the campus of Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem. The songsters, band, and TAM performed and ministered in promotion of the gospel message and the work of The Salvation Army. This included the groups performing individually and in collaborative, massed fashion.

“On Saturday night, the three groups gathered at Wake Forest University to tell the story of The Salvation Army,” Simmons-Smith said. “The history and mission of the Army was presented in a variety of ways, supported by local area commanders, Majors Andrew and Hazel Wiley.”

Following a well-received concert and a return to Camp Walter Johnson, the territorial music and arts ensembles supported worship on Sunday in four different corps. The Southern Staff Songsters worshiped in Raleigh, TAM worshiped in both Burlington and Durham, and the Southern Staff Band worshiped in Greensboro. The worship and fellowship was impactful at each corps, always maintaining the focus on the Lord and centering the energy of music, drama, or dance on the support of the mission.

“Sunday morning is always the pinnacle moment of these weekends—leading worship in local corps,” Simmons-Smith said. “By splitting up into four groups, the impact continued in the Carolinas division—particularly at the four corps served. As always, everyone was exhausted after such a full weekend, but also inspired and encouraged to worship the Lord through the arts ministry of The Salvation Army.”

“Music...”

CANDIDATES The Call of Samuel

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

Early Salvation Army leader and writer, Colonel Mildred Duff, said, “A child is in the twilight; things are yet dim, mysterious; but is the twilight, remember, of dawn, not evening.” A perfect example is the calling of Samuel.

Samuel’s story begins with his mother, Hanna, who despaired because she was unable to have children. This was particularly painful in ancient days for a woman because to not have children was to be a disappointment to her husband and carried with it the stigma of someone cursed by God. Pouring out her prayer to God, she received the good news that she would bear a son. In gratitude, she promised God that he would be dedicated back to God’s service as soon as he was old enough (1 Samuel 1:1-27).

Keeping her promise, Samuel was brought to the High Priest, Eli when he was around two years old. It was a bright spot in an otherwise dark time. Without a king at this time, Israel was a loose confederation of tribes overseen by a judge. Eli fulfilled that role but was ineffective as a leader leaving the nation to sink into a spiritual stupor further complicated by the hounding by the enemies of the Israelites. Making the future even more bleak, Eli’s sons were a disgrace to the priesthood by their public display of corruption and sin. First Samuel sadly records, “In those days the word of the Lord was rare and visions were scarce” (1 Samuel 3:1).

But God was not finished with Israel. And as He had done so many times, God provided an answer in an unexpected way. This time it was going to be through Samuel, who scholars guess was about twelve years old at the time. The Bible records, “Before the lamp of God had gone out, Samuel was lying down in the temple of the Lord, where the ark of God was located. Then the Lord called to Samuel, and he answered, ‘Here I am.’ He ran to Eli and said, ‘Here I am, for you have called me.’ ‘I did not call,’ Eli replied. ‘Go back and lie down’” (1 Samuel 3:3-5). The Lord was speaking to Samuel but he did not recognize it. After all, the most likely person to call him in the night was Eli. But the old priest likely thought that Samuel had only dreamed that he was being summoned.

Samuel had experienced an awakening call. He was in a physical sleep but how many are in a spiritual sleep, so deep, so unconnected that even when God speaks to them they cannot understand it is Him? They run here or there, speak to this person or that rather than quieting themselves before the Lord to listen to what He has to say.

We know from the story that twice more Samuel heard his name called. After telling him to go to bed the second time, when it happened the third time Eli began to understand that something else was happening. “’Go lie down,’ he said to Samuel, ‘and if He calls you, say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant

is listening’” (1 Samuel 3:9). Samuel did this and God revealed His intentions for him. For the rest of his days, Samuel was the willing and obedient servant of God, rising to a place of leadership and carrying such spiritual authority that his arrival in a town could cause a panic (1 Samuel 16:4).

What can we learn from Samuel’s call?

First, no one is too young to hear the call of God for lifetime vocational service. The Salvation Army, along with other Wesleyan and most evangelical denominations, believe that God can so speak to a child that he or she can seek Him for salvation that can carry them through their lives. If God can save a child, He can certainly speak to a young person about His plan for their lives. And if a young person is obedient when he or she first hears the call, how much easier will it be if they pursue their calling and not become distracted by taking paths that lead in other directions?

Secondly, as God called Samuel several times, when God calls a person to officership He patiently waits for the person to perceive what He is saying. This can be in the initial call but also in times when God affirms that this is how his or her life is to be lived.

I was called to be an officer when I was 14. Before that, I wanted more than anything else to be an astronomer. But when He spoke, the books on astronomy were left to gather dust while I pursued the call God placed in my life. If The Salvation Army had allowed it, I would have gone to training then and there but wisely, I had to wait until I was old enough. From then on, every course I took in high school, every time I picked up my horn, each time I wore my uniform, it was with the idea that this was preparing me for my lifetime of service as a Salvation Army officer. It was a disappointment to my mother who never could understand my attraction to the Army but in time she accepted it. The call received in my youth remained my focus through all the changing seasons of my life.

When a young person says that he or she is called to be an officer, we ought to do all we can to encourage that one to pursue what God has revealed. To be sure, there are some who misunderstand but we have to trust God to make clear to them His will whether or not it is officership. As Commissioner David Jeffrey has said, “We tell them to keep going through the doors until God closes them. If He doesn’t close them, then they are assured they are doing what God intends.”

CANDIDATES My Calling: A Testimony

BY CAPTAIN LUIS VILLANUEVA

I’m from Chile, South America. My parents are Salvation Army officers so I was able to experience a lot of the ministry with different cultures and backgrounds growing up. I was part of the Army pretty much every single day.

I got my degree in translating English and Spanish. I was asking God, “What next?” One of my sisters, was reading the War Cry and she sent me an article about a new playground that Kaboom was doing with Home Depot for this corps in Salt Lake City, Utah. At the end of the article, the officers said, “We’re looking for a bilingual Salvationist youth worker.” So I emailed them that night. The next day I got a response, “You’re exactly what we were praying for. How can you get here? Do you have everything you need?” I said, “I don’t have a visa, a passport, and I don’t have money for the ticket. Basically, I have nothing.” After eight months of working through the visa process I stepped foot on US ground in Salt Lake City in 2007.

When I was working for the Western Territory all of a sudden my visa was terminated, and I had to go back to Chile. I was devastated. I was like, “Oh God, I thought that this is going to be it and we’re going to be here.” But the problem was that I focused on my position in the Army. I was a youth worker, then the corps assistant. I wanted more and more. Because I was looking to provide for my family. I knew God was teaching me something. I had to leave my apartment, brand-new car, all the things that I acquired and go back with a couple suitcases. It was horrible. The first night we went to my wife’s grandma, and she let us use one room. There was not even a bed in there for the three of us. Our first bed was Coca-Cola crates. I went from having a nice bed to just being here on this crate.

I was disappointed in myself, and I was angry at God. I was going to the Army, but I didn’t feel anything. There was a married couple retreat. I didn’t want to go. My wife said, “Let’s go.” At the end of that weekend, somebody was praying loudly and I was so annoyed by the prayer. I started praying, “God, can you make him shut up?” Then I went to a corner, and my prayer changed. I said, “God, if you are right now with me, can you just talk to me. If you’re here with me and you’re going to do something with me, please touch me.” All of a sudden, I felt a hand. I looked up. One of my friends asked, “What’s going on? God sent me.” He was at the

other corner so he couldn’t know. He said, “Just let it go; whatever it is, just let it go.”

I went to the ground and started to cry like a baby. And then I felt this peace and love like I never felt before. I said, “God, I want to ask you for forgiveness. If you give me one more chance to go back to the States and just to do it right. I’ll be faithful to you. It’s not going to be about money or position anymore. It’s going to be all about you.”

One year passed, and then the Waxahachie Corps was looking for a youth worker. They saw my resume, called me and eight months later, I’m here in the Texas Division with people that I didn’t know.

I was in Chile I was working in a jail with a program to rehabilitate prisoners. I was a music instructor to give them some skills. I was still trying to figure out my life with God, and I said, “God, I don’t know if this is for me. God, there’s something that I’m missing. God, what are you trying to say?” At the same time my wife was also having those things. She had a beautiful career as an elementary school teacher. She was having the same things. “I wish I could be at the corps doing this.” But we didn’t talk to each other until one night. I said, “You know what? I need to talk to you.” And she said, “I need to talk to you too. You go first.” I said, “Listen, I’m happy where I am. We’re stable. But there’s something missing in my life. I miss going to the corps.” She said, “That’s funny you say that because I feel exactly the same thing.” Then we knew that we had a calling to be Salvation Army officers but we didn’t know what was going to happen. We were in Texas, and met Major Betty Jo MacDonald, who attended our corps. After a year, she said, “I think you guys have a calling to be officers.” We talked about our calling, and she said, “Sure enough!”

Training can be the worst years of your life or the best years of your life, depending on how you do it. My wife and I decided to make it the best two years of our lives. My wife was happy that she didn’t have to cook or clean, and I was excited that my kids are having a great education. We made some

long lasting friendships with our session mates. Training was an opportunity to see God working in our lives. I learned a lot of things. I had great Bible teachers who woke up my passion to learn more about the Bible.

One of the things that surprised me when I became an officer was the types of people you encounter. You have to be a pastor to all of them. You need to show patience and love. I love people. You must grounded in who you are in Christ, because if not, you can lose it.

The best thing about being a Salvation Army officer is meeting new people. The Salvation Army has opened the doors that I would never have thought. I go to the mayor’s office, and because I was part of The Salvation Army, they open the door to the mayor, and we became good friends. He came to our farewell and said, “Here are the keys to the city because of the work that you have done.” I would never have done that on my own. It’s only because of God’s grace and through The Salvation Army, this uniform. That’s amazing.

The most difficult challenge is balancing your ministry and your family, your personal time, prayer time, office time. Nobody makes me accountable. I have to do that. My wife is the one who keeps me grounded. She says, “Okay, the office is done. Forget about everything. We need to sit at the table and together, have a family meal.” That’s useful for me. The Bible says: that everything has a time.

My advice to anyone who God has called to be an officer is to pray! Let God confirm you, at least two or three times. If you’re not sure that this is what God wants from you, instead of being a help it could be a problem for you and your family. Pray and ask God for confirmation through the Scripture and through people. It can be the greatest ministry in your life if it is a calling because God will sustain you in all those years, whether good or bad.

I have everything that I have, and I am who I am, because of God and The Salvation Army. The Salvation Army fed me through God. It sent me to school and to college. My parents loving the Army taught me how to take care of little things, like the chairs, and the couch, and the beds. “That’s The Salvation Army. That’s not you.” Even as a little kid, I learned how to keep the receipts.

I want to be proud of that uniform. My parents and grandparents wore their uniforms proudly and loved the flag. I love the principles and values we share. Our songs are amazing because they teach what it believes and represents. The Salvation Army has done so much for me. They give me the opportunity to be an officer for a corps that I never imagined to be in. I could destroy things, but they said, “Do your best.” This is not just paying back. I want to continue with His legacy. I want to continue serving God.

Being a Salvation Army officer is totally different than only being a pastor. That’s something I learned. It is a lot of work. But this is going to be the greatest opportunity that you have to impact as many people you encounter. The greatest joy is my officership. I have the opportunity to be around people. It is a challenge. We are going to have good and bad times. You’re going to hurt. But if you truly are grounded in God, you know that this is the greatest thing that God has bestowed you.

Captain Luis Villaneuva

First Moments

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

I sometimes wonder what it was like at the first moment of something. What was it like when the first beams of the sun reached Earth? Or when the first wave crested the shore? When the first bird pierced the silence with its song? What about when Eve held her first baby? Or when Noah shaped the first piece of wood for the ark?

On the other side of things, what will it look like when our sun’s last flame flickers out? What was Goliath’s last thought as he sank to his knees and looked up at the scrawny little boy whose tiny stone felled him? What will be the state of things five minutes before the Lord returns in triumph to claim the world He shaped?

What was it like for the first Roman soldier to see the stone moving back from a tomb that had been deathly still only a moment before? Did he run away, fall down frozen with fear, charge forward to have a closer look? Whoever the anonymous soldier was, he was there at the point that every single event in history led to and from which every single event of history would now flow as the flood of grace cascaded into our world. Unlike other moments, this one heals the rift between God and man with redemption. When this soldier saw the unimaginable, he had no idea that God was freely giving what had been otherwise unattainable.

Christ’s incarnation, His life, suffering, death and resurrection happened to give you a first moment for salvation to sweep into your soul. When the mountains wear themselves flat into plains, if you have received Christ as Savior and Lord of your life in Him that first moment will continue undiminished in the presence of God.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

BY DR. STEVE KELLNER

My favorite place to take visitors in my adopted hometown of Washington, D.C. is Arlington National Cemetery, just across the Potomac River in Virginia. Within Arlington my favorite event is the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which occurs every half an hour without fail. The Tomb contains the remains of selected unidentified service members killed in action from all of America’s military conflicts dating back to the Civil War and is guarded twenty-four hours a day, year-round, in all weather conditions by a special U.S. Army unit called the Old Guard.

Tomb guards are carefully selected and take their duties very seriously. The list of requirements for guards is too lengthy to publish here, but it includes a two-year commitment, a prohibition on alcohol consumption and swearing on and off duty, and memorizing a seventeen-page document on the history of the cemetery, including the names and grave locations of 175 prominent Americans buried at Arlington. Guards are known to spend hours a day preparing their immaculate dress blue uniforms, highly shined shoes, and pristine rifles.

When on duty at the Tomb, the guard will take precisely 21 steps in each direction at a marching pace of 72 beats per minute, pausing for 21 seconds after facing about before beginning the return walk. The changing of the guard itself is a carefully choregraphed ballet between the commander of the guard and the guards going on and off duty. Tourists may observe the ceremony but are directed by the commander of the guard to remain “standing and silent” while doing so.

The U.S. Army and the Tomb guards go to all this trouble to show honor, respect, and gratitude to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The round the clock sentry and the exacting standards for guards are ways of showing this, and to encourage the spirit of sacrifice in all who visit the tomb.

Salvationists (and all believers) also venerate a tomb but, happily, ours is the Tomb of the Known Savior, Jesus Christ, who is no longer there! His sacrifice for us is something we all know and are thankful for, but often take for granted. If the Old Guard goes to such lengths for our honored military dead, how much more should we Salvationists show honor, respect, and gratitude to God for His unfathomable gift to us? And think of how doing so would encourage a spirit of sacrifice in all with whom we come in contact.

No, we don’t need to spend hours ironing our uniforms and shining our shoes (although a little bit of that wouldn’t hurt!), but the preparation, determination, and dedication to duty shown by the Old Guard is a good example to us. We should be on the march serving Jesus twenty-four hours a day, yearround, and in all weather conditions. But let’s make the march tempo 120!

Open Secrets About Holiness

BY LT. COLONEL VERN JEWETT

The Holiness Podcast is a monthly in-depth Bible study on subjects related to scriptural holiness. It is sponsored by The Salvation Army Florida Division and produced by Soundcast Ministries. This article will introduce you to representative examples of the topics and format used on the podcast.

What is an open secret? If they are open, visible and identifiable, why call them secrets? Simply put, they qualify as secrets because they are ignored—not because they are hidden.

WARNING! These secrets may raise questions for you. That’s by design and that’s wonderful! God has a homesickness for holiness among His children. His heart hurts when this gift is ‘in absentia’ among Christians. The New Testament description of holiness is broad, instructive and often nuanced in meaning.

Some Open Secrets about Holiness

PSSST!—You are a charter member. Yes, the card-carrying kind of the Society for Holy Living! If you know Jesus as your Savior, then you are already sanctified! Salvation consists of two wonderful blessings from God which happen instan -

taneously when you accept Jesus— justification and sanctification.

Justification takes place in the heart of God. You are reconciled to Him, your sins are forgiven and you are part of the family of God! This happens only once and is completed at the point of conversion. The guilt of sin is erased and your sins are forgiven.

Sanctification also takes place when the Holy Spirit comes into your life. (Romans 8:9) The power of sin can now be broken. This initial sanctification is the real thing! It begins the lifelong process of growing into being “sanctified through and through” (I Thessalonians 5:23).

PSSST!—God the Holy Spirit brings spiritual power. Your holiness is the purpose of God’s gift of the Holy Spirit to you. Jesus’ final words were, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

The promise of spiritual power and the assurance of its availability to all Christians explode from the pages of the gospels, Acts and the epistles. We “live according to the Spirit,” our “minds are set upon what the Spirit desires” and as His children we are “led by the Spirit of God” (Romans 8:4, 6, 14).

You and I are acutely aware that we are just ordinary folks, but ordinary becomes earthshaking in the life of a Spirit-filled believer! The Holy Spirit desires to be opportunistically redemptive in our daily lives. How exciting is that?

PSSST!—Spiritual struggle is not on God’s agenda. This secret is perhaps the most needed corrective in the church today. Countless millions of Christians are taught that holy living is impossible, that sin is inevitable and that they will constantly struggle in their spiritual lives.

The powerful teaching in Romans 12:2 that you can “be transformed by the renewing of your mind” is explained away. Rather, we are told that we must settle for the endless cycle of sinning and seeking forgiveness. That is a description of “being conformed to this world” (Romans 12:2).

At the heart of this false teaching is the assertion that God deals with sin only by forgiving us. That is a tragic half-truth. The missing truth is that God gives us the Holy Spirit who empowers us to resist sin. Dallas Willard made the poignant observation in his book, Renovation of the Heart that “no one need live in spiritual and personal defeat. A life of victory over sin and circumstances is available to all”.

You and I need not struggle spiritually. We can live in spiritual victory. I John 3: 8-9 says “The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them.”

PSSST!—What God wants is all of you. In 1967 I passed a United States Post Office had a large sign with a picture of a white-bearded old man pointing his finger and saying, “Uncle Sam Wants You!” Within the hour I had joined the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. I soon learned that the USMC wanted and claimed all of me.

Listen, dear Christian friends. The failure of

the church today is to water down the commitment demanded by the gospel. Becoming a Christian is not merely praying a prayer sincerely at the moment to enter salvation land and then proceeding to live your life as you please! Jesus’ call to repentance was “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Mark 8:34). The real question is “Does God have all of you?”

PSSST!—You can be perfect. Jesus said it, so I will, too. “Be ye perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48 KJV) Sure, I hear people say all the time that no one can be perfect! But do you believe people? Or do you believe God?

The Bible was written in two ancient languages, Hebrew and Greek. Therefore, when we study today’s English translations, words matter! The Greek word teleios used by Jesus and translated “perfect” carries the meaning of “being complete, mature, or fully equipped for a particular use.” Today that meaning is lost when we translate it “perfect” a word which has evolved to carry with it a sense of absolutism and flawlessness.

Look, you need to study this more on your own, but the doctrine of Christian perfection is tenable and consistent with New Testament teaching. The prominent Wesleyan term “perfect love” is the sum of the two great commandments taught by Jesus. It is the essence of living in the power of the Holy Spirit as Paul characterizes it, “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). A perfect heart, not perfect behavior, makes a perfect Christian!

PSSST!—A final word: “This is the will of God, even your sanctification” (I Thessalonians 4:3). Yes, you can be holy!

Lt. Colonel Vern Jewett

The Salvation Army Expands Partnership with Housing First, Inc.

Combating Family Homelessness in Coastal Alabama

Housing First, Inc., a Mobile, AL-based nonprofit whose mission is to end homelessness in southwest Alabama, has entered into an expanded partnership with The Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama to help fund shelter and services for more homeless families in the area.

Housing First, Inc. has pledged $300,000— $100,000 per year for three years—to support Family Haven. Family Haven is The Salvation Army’s shelter in Mobile that provides a safe, stable environment for homeless families, including wraparound services directed toward helping them obtain jobs and maintain permanent housing.

“Our agency has been blessed to help more people in need, and this is another way we can do that,” said Derek Boulware, CEO of Housing First, Inc.

Since 2014, Housing First, Inc. and The Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama have partnered to serve the homeless in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Housing First, Inc. serves as the lead agency for the Mobile area’s Continuum of Care (CoC), implementation of the Coordinated Entry program (which oversees the client intake process), and the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), a centralized database that helps partner agencies share data and coordinate services for the homeless population. This represents the first time that Housing First, Inc. has provided monetary support to benefit The Salvation Army’s programs.

“We have always valued our relationship with Housing First, Inc., as we share the same

mission of helping the homeless overcome obstacles and become independent again,” said Captain Trey Jones, Area Commander of The Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama. “Now, we are honored to have been selected to receive this funding and expand our long-standing partnership with Housing First, Inc.”

Captain Jones indicated that a portion of the funding will be used to hire an additional case manager for Family Haven, who will assist homeless parents in the process of securing gainful employment and permanent housing.

Located in a quiet neighborhood in Mobile, Family Haven features 15 private living units as well as a cafeteria that serves three meals/day, a communal area for group gatherings, meeting rooms for classes, laundry facilities, and an outdoor playground area. The shelter’s staff, assisted by volunteers from businesses and organizations, provide individualized services including classes that help parents establish goals and learn new

life skills involving parenting, communication, money management, resumé creation, job interviews, and other topics critical to their future success. In 2022, Family Haven served 59 homeless families, with 70 percent successfully transitioning into permanent housing and employment.

In addition to the funding for Family Haven, Housing First, Inc. also is providing $300,000 in financial support for the Dumas Wesley Community Center’s newly established Baldwin County Family Village, which will provide transitional housing and support services for homeless women and children.

Spirit of the South

100 Years Ago

April 25 has been declared “Salvation Army Day” in Lawton, Oklahoma. Citizens have endorsed The Salvation Army and promise to raise a challenging sum of $7,000. Those helping with the drive will meet at the Midland Hotel on Monday, April 23 at 6:30 P.M. Only three reasons will be accepted for any absence of a Salvation Army Advisory Board member: The birth of a son, the marriage of a committeeman or his death. The city will be divided into sections for canvassing and assigned at the meeting on Monday. The Lawton Constitution, Lawton, OK. April 22, 1923.

75 Years Ago

Construction of the $55,000 Salvation Army Youth Center building at Holly and San Marcos Streets in Austin, Texas is to begin within the next two weeks, according to the commanding officer, Adjutant James D. Lemon. J. M. Odom, of the advisory board, will supervise the project that will result in a building 95 feet wide and 125 feet long. The building will include a full-size gymnasium with a stage to present motion pictures, plays, a manual training shop for boys, home economics kitchen and dining room for girls, a small game room, a large library and an assembly room. Playground equipment is to be purchased and installed by the Kiwanis Club. The Austin Statesman Austin, TX. April 6, 1948.

50 Years Ago

Color portraits, 8 inches by 10 inches in size, will be made from 11 A.M. until 9 P.M. Friday at The Salvation Army’s Youth Hall in Orangeburg, South Carolina according to Captain Lloyd Whitmire, commanding officer. The portraits have a $17.95 value but will be made available for $3.95. The project is sponsored by the Ladies Home League to raise funds for its missionary project. The Times and Democrat , Orangeburg, SC. April 6, 1973.

25 Years Ago

The YWCA in Lubbock, Texas has named Captain Francina Proctor one of eight Women of Excellence for 1998. The YWCA annually honors Lubbock women who have “demonstrated high achievement in arts and culture, business, education, government and human services, medicine, religion, science and youth leadership.” The Southern Spirit . April 16, 1998.

Flag Lowering at Camp Tomahawk

BY KAREN YOHO

Cloudy, grey skies gave way to sunshine and a strong breeze as close to 200 soldiers, officers, and former campers gathered to say “goodbye” to Camp Tomahawk in Hedgesville, West Virginia. The camp was in the former Maryland West Virginia Division.

The Camp Tomahawk property has been sold, so in true Army fashion, a solemn and meaningful flag lowering ceremony was hosted by the Potomac Division on February 17, 2023. In addition to those braving the winter weather, 100 people joined on Facebook to witness the event live.

The program included meaningful memories shared by former campers— now officers—Captain Liz Blusiewicz and Major Amanda Raymer. “Goodbyes are difficult when you feel like the story hasn’t ended, but the book must close anyway,” shared Major Raymer. After sharing memories from others that she had gathered from across the territory, she wrapped it up, “How blessed we are to have loved and have been loved so well by this place, that we would experience such loss. So, for today, we mourn, we grieve, we cry a lot, we hug those who we are seeing it for the first time in years. We laugh as we tell stories, we pray together and comfort each other in this place where God’s love shone so brightly yesterday, today, and tomorrow.”

PROMOTED TO GLORY

Major Carolyn Walters

Major Carolyn Walters was Promoted to Glory on February 17, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was 79.

Carolyn Almenda

Reeves was born on June 11, 1943, in Albany, Georgia, to Elbert Sanders (Sr.) and Effie Reeves. She and her twin sister, Evelyn, met The Salvation Army at the age of 11, when they went to Sunbeams and loved it so much, they became very active in the Albany Corps; going on to Girl Guards, Sunday School, Young People’s Legion, band, songsters, openair, visitation and many other programs offered at the corps.

In the corps band, Carolyn played alto horn and in songsters proved quite a singer with her lovely soprano voice. In January 1956, she knelt at the Mercy Seat at the Albany Corps and gave her heart to the Lord. That March, she was enrolled as a junior soldier.

In 1957, she felt the call to Salvation Army officership while attending a Youth Councils. Arriving back to her home corps, her officer, Major Bowman, began giving her encouragement in preparation to enter the training college. At age 18, she and her twin sister entered training as members of the Heroes Of The Faith session of cadets.

With her commissioning on May 31, 1964, Carolyn’s first appointment was to Atlanta (Clark Howell); followed by posts to Toccoa and Athens, Georgia.

On April 11, 1970, Carolyn married Captain Ben Walters and together they served in Savannah, Elberton, Atlanta (Lakewood), and Waycross, Georgia; Sherman, Dallas (Oak Cliff), and Galveston, Texas; Harrisonburg, Virginia; Oklahoma City

(Citadel), Oklahoma; Gadsden, Alabama; and Orangeburg, South Carolina.

During their appointment in Orangeburg, Ben was diagnosed with bone cancer, leading to their early retirement in 1997—with faithful service as active officers for over 34 years. Even in retirement they remained faithful in their work for the Lord. Major Ben Walters was Promoted To Glory on August 16, 1999.

Major Carolyn Walters is preceded in death by her loving husband, Ben; and her parents. She is survived by her children: Major Ben (Rhonda) Walters, Jr.; Charles (Elmarie) Walters; Monica (Doug) Moore; and Roni Walters; as well as 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by siblings Evelyn Reynolds, Lynne Cox, Grace Anderson, Diane Shores, Buddy Reeves, and Jean Nelms; and other family members.

A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at the Atlanta (Temple) Corps, followed by a Committal Service at Westview Cemetery in Atlanta.

PROMOTED TO GLORY

Major Tom Richmond

Major Tom Richmond was Promoted to Glory on February 25, 2023, at age 89 from his home in Tucker, Georgia.

Thomas Henry Richmond was born on January 4, 1934 in Morgantown, West Virginia, to parents Harold and Wilma Richmond. In 1953, he entered the training college in Atlanta as a member of the Shepherds session of cadets.

After his first appointment to Charleston, West Virginia, Tom married his childhood sweetheart, Dorla Arlene Rohr in 1956. Together

WORD SEARCH

Texas Division Corps and Area Commands

WORD LIST:

ABILENE AMARILLO ARLINGTON AUSTINCITADEL AUSTINMETROPOLITAN

BEAUMONT BIGSPRINGS BRYAN CONROE CORPUSCHRISTI CORSICANA DENTON ELPASO FORTWORTHFRIENDSHIIP

they served in corps appointments in Norfolk, Virginia; Williamson, West Virginia; Hampton, Virginia; followed by appointments in the Georgia Division in Elberton, Gainesville, Warner Robbins, Brunswick, Macon, Toccoa, Atlanta (Fulton), and Rome.

Majors Tom and Dorla Richmond retired from active service as Salvation Army officers in 1999, after devoting 45 years to the cause of Christ.

Apart from these years of ministry in The Salvation Army, he also served faithfully for 25 years as the State Chaplain for the Georgia Firefighters Association.

They had four children: Christine Carol (Peter) Horn; Major Thomas Henry (Jennifer) Richmond, II; John Harold (Lisa) Richmond; and Elizabeth Anne (Alton) Carter. The Richmonds enjoyed 13 grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Major Tom is preceded in death by his loving wife, Major Dorla Richmond in 2007, and by his youngest son, John, in 2022.

Major Tom Richmond loved his family and friends and did all he could to show them how important they were to him. He loved the Lord and was a faithful prayer warrior and soldier until the very end. When he laid down his sword, he left behind a legacy that will continue for years to come.

A Celebration of Life was held at the Gwinnett County Corps in Lawrenceville, Georgia, on March 2, 2023. Graveside service followed at the Westview Cemetery in Atlanta.

PROMOTED TO GLORY

Major Vivian Childs

Major Vivian Childs was Promoted to Glory on February 28, 2023, from Ardent Health Hospital in Orlando, Florida, at 75 years of age.

Vivian F. Taylor was born on February 12, 1946 in Quincy, Illinois, the eldest daughter of John and Jean Taylor. In 1968, she entered the College For Officer Training in Chicago as a member of the Undaunted session of cadets. Her first appointment was to St. Louis, Missouri, and later to Omaha, Nebraska.

In 1976, she met a young man from the Southern Territory, Cadet Otis Childs. They fell in love and in May 1978 they were married in Nashville, Tennessee. Together they served as corps officers in Nashville; Washington, D.C.; Petersburg, Virginia; Portsmouth, Virginia; Melbourne, Florida; Ocala, Florida; and Panama City, Florida.

They also served on staff appointments at the National Capital and Virginia Division, the Evangeline Booth College, and at the Southern Territorial Headquarters, both in Atlanta, Georgia.

Major Vivian Childs is survived by her husband of 45 years, Major Otis Childs; son, Jeremy Childs; and daughter Candace (Nicholas) Lewis; four grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. She also leaves her siblings, Sue Gaines and Charles Taylor.

She is preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, John and Clarence Jackson; and a sister, Alicia Johnson.

Major Vivian Childs retired from active service as a Salvation Army officer in July 2019, with the distinction of being one of only a handful of officers in the Southern Territory serving for 50 years. As a part of her ministerial training, Major Vivian was a student of Sociology and Human Relations—which is quite appropriate because of her love for people.

A Celebration of Life service was held at the Orlando Corps on March 7, 2023, at 11 a.m. A graveside service took place on March 14, 2023 at the Westview Cemetery in Atlanta.