Southern Spirit MAY 2023 - Vol 39 Issue 5

TERRITORIAL LEADERS PREPARE FOR HIGH COUNCIL

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart, territorial leaders for the USA Southern Territory, have received their summons from the Chief of the Staff to participate in the High Council as it convenes on May 21. In its international news release, International Headquarters (IHQ) stated, “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.” (See accompanying story on page 5.)

Reflecting on the heavy responsibility that he and Commissioner Donna face, Commissioner Kelly Igleheart shared the following:

In preparation for the High Council, both of us were called to the International Leadership Council held last October in Vancouver. It was an amazing experience that allowed us to engage with leaders from across the world. While there was an IHQ agenda, the opportunity to meet global leaders also provided time to share ideas and for engagement. Sadly, most of the African leaders were not able to attend because of the denial of visas from Canada. It was unfortunate that the African leadership could not meet and engage the other world leaders. It is worth noting that 75% of the world leaders attending this High Council have never attended before. This may also require intentional networking.

We have also read Inside A High Council by General John Larsson. This book, available to all Salvationists, is an excellent introduction to the history, culture, and the process of electing the next General. Of special note is the highlight of the deep spiritual tone of the meetings and the full participation of the delegates.

As for me, the responsibility and the privilege to participate in a High Council is overwhelming and weighty. The presence and leading of the Holy Spirit is preeminent to us. It is helpful to know world leaders. It is a requirement to recognize the days and times that we live in and to understand the global Army perspectives. It is impossible to arrive at a vote without the leadership of God the Holy Spirit.

Lastly, I am well aware of concerns that Salvationist may have regarding biblical orthodoxy and our mandate to uphold the tenets of our

faith. These truths alongside our doctrinal positions provide excellent guideposts to steer our Army clear of modern day narratives and practices that seek to divide many. Join me in praying for all those who will be gathered for what will be another critical point for God’s Army and our territory’s mission to love, serve, and disciple all people.

North Texas Command Capital Campaign to Raise Record Amount

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

In a fundraising effort that breaks all previous records in the 133 countries where The Salvation Army serves, the North Texas Area Command has been busy raising funds to meet its goal of a $159.2 million capital campaign. The amount smashes through the previous record of $100 million raised by The Salvation Army in Orange County, California.

The campaign focuses exclusively on the needs of the Army in the Dallas County, only one county of what comprises the North Texas Area Command. Subsequent campaigns are being planned for the other counties when the Dallas County campagin is complete.

Projects slated to be addressed are as follows:

$

* A full description of the new social service center will be in the June issue of The Southern Spirit. “North Texas...” continued on page 2

Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart

Carr P. Collins Center

Mobilizing for any capital campaign is a daunting process but even more so with such a challenging goal addressing such a wide array of needs. Several key elements have been engaged to ensure success.

Salvation Army Mission and Heritage

In interviewing a number of advisory board members, repeatedly the evangelistic message of The Salvation Army was cited for a reason they became involved. Advisory board member Michal Powell said she was attracted to the Army because it was “faith based and intentional, humble and very hands-on.” Another board member, Shellie Sills, shared, “What The Salvation Army does is based on faith. As a Christian woman who teaches a Bible study, it’s an alignment of both the passions in my life. When people see it, they see the hands and feet of Christ. It makes them realize what God’s love is.” Another board member, Preston McAfee spoke of “the spiritual aspect, how important it is in what we do. It feels like a higher calling to me, to be involved is more special.”

Christina Cavalier, the senior director for community relations at area command, said that to most donors, “especially those who are giving at a high level, it is important that we integrate faith with social service work.” The professional fundraising team M. Gale and Associates, share that one of the strengths in working with The Salvation Army is “its brand and its faith with its loyal service to the community for all these years.”

Vision of Advisory Board and Salvation Army Staff

For many years, the North Texas Area Command Advisory Board has been one of the strongest in the country. To be asked to serve is an honor not only because of the high caliber of board members but because they are deeply engaged in the work and ministry of The Salvation Army. The board is no place for benchwarmers—to be on the board means that the person will work and likely be stretched in doing so.

In preparation for the capital campaign, the board worked with the officers and staff to develop a long-term strategic plan that would set priorities and provide guidance while keeping in mind the inevitable change of personnel and local developments. Early on it was seen that a

series of capital campaigns would need to be implemented.

Part of that was done when Bernie DiFiore who previously served as the advisory board chairman. “I decided we need to get an elevator speech and we need to get something that everybody on the board at least knows. So we came up with the three key elements of what we were trying to address in our area: poverty, addiction and homelessness.” Board members learned this so well that when making presentations they could easily bring it into the conversation. While I was there, the three key needs were repeated to me by the officers, staff and board members so often that I had it memorized.

The other key element was to look at the community and see who else was offering services to people and rather than competing with those organizations, to work to see how the Army could cooperate or even provide a space for them to operate within Salvation Army facilities. This spirit of cooperation not only made Army service more comprehensive but was extremely appealing to the advisory board and donors.

More Groundwork

The process was not quick, but it was thorough. In order to understand the needs, an inventory of all Salvation Army properties and programs was undertaken to make sure that the Army would neither understate nor overstate the needs and how they would be addressed. They realized quickly that it would be better to localize the campaigns. Because of the critical situation faced by the Carr P. Collins Center (see next month’s issue), Dallas County came to the forefront.

A feasibility study was then conducted to gauge whether or not the Army could raise the funds needed. It answered such key questions as :

• What did the community see as the greatest human service needs?

• What did professionals see as needs that were emerging and would have to be addressed more aggressively?

• How had the pandemic shaped how the Army should design its future service?

start, ‘Here’s what we do with children.’ If you’re interested in arts, ‘Here’s what we do with arts.’ I wouldn’t just cold call. It takes serious forethought.”

Each board member has committed his or her gift, oftentimes the largest gift they have ever given to any organization and sometimes one that is a stretch for them. That allows them to have integrity when approaching someone else.

DiFiore provides additional guidance. “Raise the bar. Whatever you were thinking before, raise the bar.” In other words, decide what a donor can give and then ask for more than that. It is a bold and surprisingly successful strategy. All I talked to admitted that they found this the hardest and most nerve-wracking part of what they do but, keeping in mind what the money will build and the way it will make impact on the poorest and most disadvantaged in their community, they swallow hard and do it.

What’s Next?

Since the original cost estimates were made, there have been substantial increases in the cost of building goods and labor. Although those have started to moderate, the whole project will need to be priced out again. Nonetheless, the board remains optimistic that the goal will not only be achieved but exceeded, offsetting concerns about increased costs.

“The public campaign will be launched with the groundbreaking ceremonies at the new social services campus, anticipated to be in April 2024,” said Major Paul McFarland, area commander. “At that time we will share the full vision of the campaign, project goals and fundraising progress to date with the general public. An invitation will be given to participate in support of this inspiring vision.”

It is anticipated that by the time of the public campaign 70-75% of the overall goal will be in hand or committed. Beyond the wider campaign to the public, approaches to foundations are largely unfinished because of the amount of extra work and answers to specific questions the individual foundations require.

Other Benefits

Commissioner Kelly Igleheart, Territorial Commander Colonel Deborah Sedlar, Chief Secretary

Lt. Colonel Mark Israel, Publisher

Bernie Dake, Communications Director

Lt. Colonel Allen Satterlee, Editor-in-Chief

Brad Rowland, Staff Writer

Photographers: Joseph Chang, Jon Avery, Laura Dake, Adriana Li Mandri, Ed Escobar, Christopher Hall

Tara Bueford, Circulation Stewart Art & Design, Layout and Design

Wallace Graphics, Printing and Shipping

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• How aware were donors of the scope and magnitude of Salvation Army service?

• What was the level of financial commitment a donor was willing to give?

Approach to Major Donors

Prior to the campaign going public, which is planned for April 2024, a “quiet” campaign has been and is being conducted to solicit major gifts so that a majority of the projected goal is already in hand. Not only does that provide for financial stability but it lets potential donors know that this is not something that will collapse under its own weight but will indeed be seen through until all the projects involved are successfully completed. Advisory board members with staff support are expected to make the approach to individual donors. Talking about how he personally handles this challenge, Bernie DiFiore shared, “First, I’d know you either personally or I’d know a lot about you because I would have done my research. Pick something, anything you’re interested in and I will spin around that. If you’re interested in children, I would

A repeated sentiment was that this campaign will not only benefit the people of the North Texas Area Command, but it will serve as an example and template for other Salvation Army operations in the United States and beyond. The very scope of the goal is enough to challenge communities to ask what their true potential for fundraising might be given the community needs they are addressing.

As has happened with innumerable capital campaigns, the follow on over years to come includes the community knowing more about The Salvation Army mission and work and with that knowledge, increased support follows. Not only is this seen in regular fundraising such as mail appeals and kettles but in planned giving instruments such as wills, annuities and other estate giving.

We will watch with interest as this campaign unfolds. Be sure to look for the second installment of this story in the next issue of The Southern Spirit where we will share the expansion of traditional services and the innovative approaches being implemented as the Army continues to serve.

“North Texas...” continued from page 1

Oak Cliff Corps

The Salvation Army Activates Emergency Disaster Response After Catastrophic Events

STORY AND PHOTOS BY CINDY FULLER, MICHELLE HARTFIELD, AIMEE MURRY, AND CHRIS JOHNSON

In late March, severe weather affected millions across the Southeastern United States, with tornadoes touching down in Arkansas, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee. The first wave of powerful storms arrived on March 24, as a series of long-track tornadoes covering approximately 100 miles ripped through Georgia and Mississippi and created widespread damage in areas including Rolling Fork and Silver City in Mississippi and West Point in Georgia. The second series of tornadoes struck Arkansas and Tennessee approximately one week later, with more than a dozen dead and thousands left facing tremendous need in Benton, Little Rock, Wynne, Tipton County, and beyond.

The Salvation Army immediately responded to communities affected, and Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) teams provided food, hydration, and emotional and spiritual care to disaster survivors and first responders. In Rolling Fork, Mississippi, Salvation Army units were visited by President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves and First Lady Elee Reeves, and Rolling Fork Mayor Eldridge Walker. Salvation Army units from supporting states also deployed units to further the ongoing effort.

Through April 10, The Salvation Army served more than 32,800 meals, 46,400 drinks, and 40,600 snacks, with more than 6,500 hours of active service and more than 2,200 emotional and spiritual care contacts across four states. Those numbers will continue to grow as the response effort persists.

Many survivors continue wrestling with grief and trauma over lost loved ones and the destruction of their homes and neighborhoods. The Salvation Army plans to continue its response as long as needed, and is coordinating its efforts with federal, state, and local officials, as well as other social service agencies, to support survivors.

Sisters Help The Salvation Army

Answer the Call

Volunteers have been called the backbone of The Salvation Army, playing a vital role in its activities, particularly during calamities. Two sisters — Doris Gleason and Charlotte Cates — were enroute to attend a surprise 80th birthday celebration of a childhood friend, when they were approached by the Disaster Resource Manager from The Salvation Army’s Area Command in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The sisters were asked to lend a helping hand in responding to the tornadoes that hit Arkansas the previous Friday. Despite being so close to their destination, they instantly agreed and began to make alternate arrangements.

Although they had planned only an overnight stay, they called Charlotte’s daughter in Benton, Arkansas to borrow a pair of jeans and tennis shoes. Doris, with a spirit of service, remarked, “I can wear a pair of pants for 10 days if it means serving others!” Their plan was to collect items for a garage sale on their way back home. Both sisters come from a religious background and are steadfast in their faith. According to Doris, “The greatest gift was to give back instead of going to the party.” They consider it an honor to volunteer and work in the mission field.

Upon reaching the base command in Little Rock, they were assigned to serve 300 meals from a canteen that was serving first responders and survivors of the storms. Charlotte and Doris then began serving on a roaming rapid response unit to ensure that residents and responders are being provided the food, hydration and emotional care that is critical to those who have been affected by the devastation that these storms left

behind. Charlotte had always dreamt of being a volunteer since she was a young girl. “It’s like a bucket list item,” she said. “A dream from childhood come true.”

Doris, on the other hand, began volunteering 20 years ago in Yuma, Arizona, with The Salvation Army. Charlotte has been volunteering for four years, and both sisters assist with the Angel Tree program each year, serve at the Veteran’s Coffee Bunker, and Doris even dresses up as “Big Red” (a shield costume) for special occasions, feeling it is her calling to volunteer.

“This work is very, very rewarding,” said Charlotte. “When you help others, it reminds you of how truly blessed you are.”

“We are so grateful!”

When a Salvation Army emergency disaster team received a call about an elderly man in a remote location near Winona, Mississippi with no electricity or running water, they packed supplies and hit the road. About a mile and a half off a gravel road, deep in the woods, The Salvation Army roving unit met Mr. Robert as he sat outside in an old antique rocking chair surrounded by debris.

Once his favorite porch rocker, it now sits on the dirt ground next to an old water well dug the year he was born. Mr. Robert’s house is settled on over 120 acres of family land and was built by his great-great-grandfather in the 1800s. In fact, Mr. Robert, who is now 90 years old, was born in the same room he was sitting when the tornado hit on Friday, March 24.

This day was especially difficult as it also marked the second anniversary of his wife’s death. They had been married for just over 59 years. Robert said he was in bed with his “little buddy,” a poodle mix named Teddy, when the electricity went out, turning off his CPAP machine in the process. He moved to his recliner in the adjacent room to be inclined and breathe.

“Teddy was in the chair with me,” said Mr. Robert. “It was steady lighting outside.”

As he sat down, his window air conditioning unit was sucked out the window. He felt the house lift off the ground. “It picked the house up, and I thought we were about to go for a ride and not sure where we would land.” The house completely lifted off its foundation and dropped several feet away, causing the walls to crack and the roof to cave.

“I tried to get out but couldn’t,’ he said. “All of the doors were jammed. Every one of them.”

Tired and trapped, Mr. Robert said he laid back on the bed. Thankfully, his neighbors came to check on him when they smelled the strong odor of propane from the broken line. Mr. Robert said he was glad he and Teddy made it out alive. “He has been with me every day and night since my wife died. He was her dog.”

Lt. Roy Fisher, corps officer in Meridian, is a certified grief coach and took the opportunity to listen as Mr. Robert “reminisced about his life growing up in the country as well as the wonderful

story of his wife and their life together.” Lt. Fisher said his training and experience have taught him the importance of listening to survivors and asking questions about their experiences.

“In the midst of the destruction, there was a peace that came over us as we sat there and talked,” said Lt. Fisher. Thankfully, his family and friends, who call him “Papa,” are working to help him clear the destruction and sort through the next steps.

More Than a Partnership

First combining efforts in New York City during the aftermath of 9/11, The Salvation Army and Southern Baptist Disaster Relief continue a fruitful partnership that shines as an example of what can be accomplished when organizations stand together and work toward a common goal. In times of disaster, the partnership is seamless and complementary, with The Salvation Army utilizing a comprehensive distribution operation and the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief network providing the ability to produce meals in large quantities.

“Our relationship with Baptist Disaster Relief is more than a partnership, it’s a friendship,” said Laurie Fried, divisional director for The Salvation Army of Arkansas-Oklahoma’s emergency disaster services. “It’s an ongoing relationship. We communicate before, during, and after storms to see how we can best serve those affected. They are truly a blessing to work with, even if the circumstance that brings us together is a disaster.”

“We’re very appreciative to partner with likeminded groups, like The Salvation Army, with a heart to serve the community,” said Randy Garrett, Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief Director. “Arkansas Baptist Disaster Relief is here to bring help, healing and hope to those in need. We’re here until the end. We don’t pull out early. We stay until the last person that needs help gets help. The Salvation Army does the same. They’re a blessing to work with.”

The Salvation Army also stands alongside other partners in this relief response, including Walmart, which quickly distributed bulk water and ice to the Rolling Fork community. Walmart associates also showed up in full force to participate, even bringing their cook trailer and preparing hot, fresh meals for all who needed it.

“We are grateful to The Salvation Army teams who quickly mobilized to provide much needed resources and services for the communities impacted by the recent tornado in Mississippi,” said Brooks Nelson, senior manager, disaster response and preparedness, Walmart.org. “We are proud to work side-by-side providing water and food to serve the Rolling Fork community.”

A Generous Donation from Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores

Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stops is headquartered in Oklahoma City, with more than 600 locations nationwide. The organization provides “Disaster...” continued on page 4

Anticipation Grows for Exciting Commissioning Weekend

BY BRAD ROWLAND

Salvationists from across the USA Southern Territory are set to gather as anticipation grows for Commissioning Weekend 2023. From June 2-4, Commissioning will be held at the Atlanta Temple Corps with the theme of “All In: Everyone…Everywhere—A Call to Evangelism & Discipleship Mark 16:15 ERV.” The three-day gathering promises to make a deep impact through service, fellowship, and worship, and will include the commissioning of the Reflectors of Holiness session of cadets on Sunday, June 4.

Special guest speakers will be ministering throughout the weekend, as The Salvation Army welcomes Dr. Bill and Reverend Diane Ury, Michael Adam Beck, and Marilyn Adamson. Dr. and Reverend Ury are The Salvation Army’s national ambassadors for holiness in the United States, while Michael Beck is a pastor, professor, and author who works alongside his wife, Jill, as co-pastors of Wildwood and St. Marks UMC. Adamson is the director of EveryStudent.com. Each is wellequipped to inform and come alongside the Army in a spirit of mission.

“Our territory and our world are hungry for a fresh Spirit of God to fall and to replenish our thirsty souls,” said Commissioner Kelly Igleheart, territorial commander. “It is time for all of us to plead to our God for His holy presence to spark our hearts to see and save those who are perishing all around us. It is time for every Salvation -

“Disaster...” continued from page 3

motorists and professional truck drivers with 24hour access to clean, safe places to purchase gasoline, travel items, electronics, snacks, and more. The organization also has a hospital division providing a growing network of hotels and storage rental locations. In response to the widespread tornado outbreak in late March, the company partnered with its customers for a large donation of snack items that was loaded into Salvation Army canteens and distributed to first responders and survivors in Arkansas.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of Love’s and its customers in helping us meet the needs of those affected by the tornados,” said Cindy Fuller, spokesperson for The Salvation Army. “Their donation of snack items will help sustain our relief efforts and provide comfort to those who have lost so much.”

The Salvation Army relies on burgeoning corporate partnerships, as well as individual contributions, to ensure that the needs of affected communities are met. This donation from Love’s is not only an act of corporate responsibility, but also an inspiring testimony of local communities coming together to help those in need.

A Key Component

The Salvation Army strives to meet human need in His name without discrimination, with the organization springing into action to meet physical need in the aftermath of disaster. The Salvation Army is also able to touch the lives of many beyond service delivery, however, as emotional and spiritual care (ESC) is at the forefront of any deployment.

Testimonies emerge from across affected areas following the multi-state tornado outbreak, with individuals facing unimaginable hardship and leaning on others to persevere. Shannon was offered an additional shift of work, dropping her husband off at work and her child at daycare just moments before their home was destroyed by a tornado. Still, she shares that her faith in the Lord remains strong and she is appreciative of the

ist to rise up and rescue the perishing from the tentacles of this world which constantly pull them down.”

In addition to what promises to be a memorable slate of general sessions, the weekend is filled with special events. A “block party” event will be held on Saturday, June 3 from 5 pm to 9 pm ET, seeking to bring the local community of Atlanta together in evangelism. This event will include free admission and free food for those in attendance, and the Southern Staff Songsters, transMission, and Southern Staff Band are set to participate in ministry, not only for the block party but throughout the weekend.

The Saturday evening gathering will center around a “Jesus Theater” presentation from Territorial Arts Ministry (TAM), followed by a time of commitment and response. Children are welcome and encouraged to attend, with vendors onsite and representatives from Atlanta Area Command corps on the scene to connect attendees with Salvation Army programs and services.

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. The childcare services will feature five zones of activity, and the youth conference will be built around the Orange curriculum “Ready, Set, Move.” This includes the introduction of the theme on Friday evening, jam-packed activities throughout Saturday, and a

meals and prayers from The Salvation Army.

Toby who was inside his home when the tornado struck the structure, shared his gratitude toward The Salvation Army. His father was served by the Army in New Guinea, forming a lasting bond, and that emotional connection only grew in the wake of this challenging time, as Toby offered prayers for those serving, in addition to those being served.

A 105-year-old and her daughter found themselves sheltering in place during and after the storms struck their neighborhood. Sergeant Brian Drummond, corps administrator in Fayetteville, Arkansas, visited the property on a canteen and, after bringing a meal and a cold drink, he heard a harrowing story of survival. The testimony included the sentiment that “God must have more for her to do,” and Sergeant Drummond was overwhelmed with emotion following the encounter.

“It’s amazing to see that even at 105 years old, the Lord still has something for her,” Sgt. Drummond said. “She was surrounded by her family and they were amazed by her resilience. It was such a great feeling to be able to pray with this wonderful family.”

Loaves and Fishes in the Mississippi Delta

The Mississippi Delta is a beautiful place full of history and vibrant communities. When tornadoes ripped across the entire state on Friday, March 24, many of these communities were thrown into chaos. What followed is an example of humanity and southern hospitality at its finest.

When Salvation Army units deployed to the

“Junior Commissioning” service on Sunday.

Registration is now available at SouthernSpiritOnline.org. As a reminder, pre-registration is required for the childcare and youth conference programming. In addition, a hotel block is secured at Marriott Courtyard Executive Park for $119 per night or at Marriott Century Center for $139 per night. When inquiring, please mention The Salvation Army room block for April 2023.

“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 Igleheart. “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.”

communities of Blackhawk and Summerfield, crew members discovered a distribution center that was not an official distribution center at all. Renee, a longtime resident of Blackhawk, explained.

“Loaves and Fishes,” she said. “That’s the best way to sum it up. Ms. Ailene came out here yesterday with 25 biscuits and water, and it has grown from there.”

Inspired by one person intending to serve only breakfast, community members started to bring donations. That grew to multiple tents providing any number of necessities and caravans of all-terrain vehicles taking coolers of ice and supplies to people still trapped by impassable roads and unable to drive out.

“This is a community that loves their people,” said Ailene Downs, whose breakfast offering inspired the impromptu distribution center. “We are small but mighty. This is an outpouring of love like I have never seen before.”

Mayor Washington Bell of Summerville was one of the leaders to request meals from The Salvation Army to add to this community effort. “It’s sad that this is necessary, but it is amazing to see the community come together like this.”

“The community response has been truly inspirational,” said William Trueblood, Divisional Emergency Disaster Services Director. “We are blessed to be a part of this. We hate that we have to do it, but we love that we get to.”

Salvation Army Serves

After Tragic Shooting in Louisville

In the midst of the ongoing tornado response in multiple states, The Salvation Army maintains its far-reaching impact, not only in daily ministry and service, but also in other emergency response efforts. This is the case in reaction to a mass shooting in Louisville, Kentucky on Monday, April 10. Within hours of the tragic event, The Salvation Army’s presence was requested by local emergency management officials in the city, and a mobile feeding unit was deployed to provide hood, hydration, and other support to first responders and survivors.

Maxwells Guests for World Service Weekend

PHOTOS AND STORY BY MAJOR FRANK DURACHER

Commissioners Wayne and Robyn Maxwell were featured guests at Charlotte Temple for its second annual World Service Weekend. Stationed at International Headquarters in London, the Maxwells are zonal leaders for the South Pacific and East Asia Zone, and are conducting reviews in Korea, Cambodia, New Zealand, and Tonga on this trip.

“Commissioners Maxwell are with us this weekend to share what is going on in their zone,” explains Captain Michael McGee, Temple corps officer. “World Service Weekend is an annual event which we hope will encourage people to support the Army’s work around the world.”

Last year, the weekend had to be held digitally because of the pandemic. At that time, three territorial leaders from around the globe shared insights into their countries of where World Service monies go in the Army’s ongoing mission and ministry.

“The Maxwells were in Hickory and Raleigh before coming here to Temple,” Captain Michael says. “During our weekend, they met with our corps council on Friday night and spoke at a World Service brunch.”

By introducing the Maxwells, CSM Eddie Laity challenged the congregation to consider “your tithe (which is ten percent), your offering (which is given out of love for God), and in addition, to generously support the Army’s work around the world.”

“When I ‘signed up’ to be a Salvation Army officer, I only envisioned working in a lovely country corps somewhere in Australia,” Commissioner Robyn Maxwell began her testimony Sunday. “I never anticipated that my calling would take us around the world.” Experiencing firsthand the good World Service offering does in impoverished countries, she described their time as territorial leaders for The Philippines as the most vivid for her.

“The national slogan is ‘It’s More Fun In The Philippines,’” she went on. “People think of The Philippines as beautiful beaches, hammocks, and lovely palm trees. But leaving the airport you are soon confronted by the extreme poverty, overpopulation, stifling heat, oppressive traffic, and children begging.

“However, Filipinos are an inspiring people who understand their relationship with God and with each other. While serving there, I really got a sense of what my World Service giving really means!”

Commissioner Wayne Maxwell’s sermon, The Miracle of the Cross, was drawn from Luke 5:1-11, where Jesus miraculously provided a draught of fishes in response to Peter’s obedience. The lessons we learn involve Listening to the Word; Learning through Obedience; and, Living by Faith.

“I wonder how many times we miss out on our experience of God’s miraculous power by not ‘going out deeper’ in our walk with Him—and ultimately finding His plan and purpose for our life,” he concluded, “It’s how we learn to ‘fish for people!’”

HIGH COUNCIL TIMELINE

TUESDAY 4 APRIL

The Chief of the Staff formally issued summons for the High Council.

THURSDAY 18 MAY

High Council members are welcomed to Sunbury Court.

SATURDAY 20 MAY

The Welcome to the 2023 High Council takes place in London.

SUNDAY 21 MAY

High Council members share together in worship at Sunbury Court.

MONDAY 22 MAY

High Council formally commences. When the High Council is in session, daily news bulletins will be published at https://salvationarmy.org/ ihq/highcouncil2023.

DATE AND TIME TO BE ANNOUNCED

The President announces the new General-elect and the news is livestreamed around the world.

Commissioners Wayne and Robyn Maxwell are welcomed to the Charlotte Temple Corps by divisional leaders Lt. Colonels Ronnie and Sharon Raymer, and corps officers Captains Michael and Rebecca McGee.

Commissioner Robyn Maxwell marvels at the great things God is doing around the world through World Service giving, as profoundly revealed to her during her four years in The Philippines Territory.

Commissioner Wayne Maxwell speaks on The Miracle Of The Cross—still evident today as we are obedient to God’s will and direction of our lives.

Courtesy of The Salvation Army International Headquarters. Used by permission.

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

Raised Up Missing In Action

Before this month of May ends, it is likely we will know who will be the next General of The Salvation Army. With the exception of the Roman Catholic Church, no single leader of a religious denomination has as wide ranging influence or importance than the General of The Salvation Army. The General is no figurehead but a true international spiritual head and CEO whose leadership is felt in the 133 countries where the Army flag flies. There is no federation of Salvation Army operations around the world—there is one single entity that is The Salvation Army.

The election of a General is a test of that unity as well as an affirmation of it. As a car negotiates the twists and turns involved in driving, gravity works both to hold it to the road and take it off by centrifugal force. Think of how much harder it is to control a car moving at speed around a curve. In a sense, that is also true of The Salvation Army. As we move through the stages of history, we are at the same time propelled by our momentum and fighting against those forces that would take us off the road. The High Council provides a rare stage where this is fully evident.

We Salvationists believe God raised up The Salvation Army for His own purposes in the world. Our early founders—the Booths, Booth-Tucker, Brengle and many others—openly stated if The Salvation Army should fail to serve those purposes for which God raised it up, it ought not to continue to exist. That is why the issue of its leadership is so critical. And that is why our prayers for Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart and the other members of the High Council are absolutely vital. If we are to remain God’s Army, then we will need God’s man or woman who has been anointed by His Spirit to lead us forward.

BY DR. STEVE KELLNER

Compiling casualty figures is a grisly task but it’s taken very seriously by our military services. One of the first things that happens after any combat action is an accountability formation so that leaders can determine the number and type of casualties, those killed, wounded, and missing. This is done so that commanders know how many effective troops are available for the next action, and whether they need to send in reinforcements. But another important reason is to show their concern for every individual member of the unit, their whereabouts, the extent of their wounds, whether they have been captured by the enemy, and their general condition. Everyone is accounted for, a critical factor in the morale and fighting spirit of the unit.

But it’s not enough to simply list someone as missing or “MIA”. A special unit called the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency is tasked with the never-ending worldwide search for the missing. Sometimes it takes decades to find them (usually by identifying their remains, sadly), but it still helps to bring closure and comfort to the families of the missing. The US Congress has sought to bring attention to this effort by making September 15th “National POW/MIA Recognition Day,” and mandating that the POW/ MIA flag be flown over government buildings on six different federal holidays. This flag, with the motto “You Are Not Forgotten”, is the only flag

to fly inside the rotunda of the US Capitol.

Reflecting on this commitment to locate the missing makes me think of all the Salvationists I have known over the years who are now “MIA,” no longer involved with the Army in any way, at least to my knowledge. (At my age the number is probably up into the thousands!) Perhaps they have found another church home and are serving the Lord faithfully, and if so, wonderful. But shouldn’t we know where they are? Based on present societal trends there is a better than average chance that they are not involved in any church, or that Christianity plays little to no role in their lives.

I was one of those missing Salvationists for about 15 years and so have some experience on the other side of this issue. As it happens, my family and I were faithfully serving the Lord in several other churches during that time, but I must admit that there was no great effort by the Army writ large to track us down after we left, and, unfortunately, this has been the experience of many former Salvationists.

Perhaps we can’t have a MIA Salvationists flag or set aside a Sunday as “National Missing Salvationists Sunday.” Or maybe we can! But, at the very least, every corps should make a good faith effort to contact known former Salvationists in their city or town. If nothing else, this effort to know their whereabouts and general spiritual condition might bring comfort to them or their families. But it would also show concern for current corps members, that everyone is accounted for, and this would certainly raise the morale and fighting spirit of a corps congregation.

MIA Salvationists, you are not forgotten!

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

30th Annual William Booth Society Gala Leaves Tremendous Impact in Tulsa

BY BRAD ROWLAND

For three decades, lives have been changed through the impact of The Salvation Army’s William Booth Society Gala in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The annual event is a centerpiece of the fundraising and awareness effort of The Salvation Army in and around the city, with an impressive list of former guest speakers that includes former United States presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton, as well as Joe Montana, Walter Cronkite, Emmitt Smith, Jay Leno, Laura Bush and Jenna Bush Hager, Tony Dungy, and Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger. On Tuesday, March 21, the 30th annual gala was held at the Cox Business Convention Center in downtown Tulsa, with more than 1,000 individuals coming together to raise more than $1.2 million to support The Salvation Army’s efforts.

Tim Tebow served as the keynote speaker for the evening, drawing in an interested audience through his passion and experience. Tebow, a former professional athlete, broadcaster, and three-time New York Times bestselling author, engaged with patrons before and after the event in addition to speaking extensively about his experience and urging those in attendance to display the love of Jesus Christ to others.

“I hope that we have a room full of people here tonight that are willing to continue to give, pray, serve, and love,” Tebow said. “Not just when it’s easy in a ballroom or at a dinner such as this, but even when it gets hard or when you have to be uncomfortable or even if it changes your life. Because the greatest form of love is not a feeling—the greatest form of love is a choice. When we talk about ‘Love Beyond,’ it’s a choice, not a feeling. The greatest form of love is the sacrificial love that Jesus has for us and that we’ve been commanded to live out as well.”

The Salvation Army Advisory Board and Women’s Auxiliary beautifully supported the event in conjunction with Major Sarah and Captain Dan

Nelson, area commanders, and the dedicated staff of the Tulsa Area Command. Following a welcome from Kim Stewart, advisory board chairman, Major and Captain Nelson brought the invocation and struck a powerful chord for the evening.

Major Nelson told the extensive story of how her family, across generations, became connected with The Salvation Army through the work of an officer and a powerful tale of redemption.

“In a real sense, this is a significant part of my story because it explains to a degree, how a bridge was provided for a future generation, for me, to become a leader of The Salvation Army’s work in Tulsa,” said Major Nelson. “It was a moment, decades ago, when the sending work of God prompted the heart and feet and hands of a Salvation Army officer to go to a family in desperate need of help. It wasn’t an easy assignment… but he extended love and compassion and understanding, and he rescued my grandmother.

“As a result, subsequent generations of my family are preaching the gospel and serving suffering humanity today. This is the story of a family who was freed from poverty, homelessness, substance abuse, domestic violence, and a host of other generational curses. This is the work we remain committed to in The Salvation Army. Please receive our deep gratitude in joining us for building bridges for children, women, and men who deserve a better future, because you just never know what the outcome might be.”

Captain Dan Nelson spoke about The Salvation Army’s “Tokens of Hope” initiative, used in many commands across the USA Southern Territory. This program encourages individuals

to share tokens with those facing challenging circumstances, and the tokens direct them to The Salvation Army for a helping hand.

“We invite you to take these tokens home with you, not as something to keep for yourself, but to give to someone in search of a bridge out of their circumstances,” Captain Nelson said. “You’re bound to encounter someone with a cardboard sign that says ‘help.’ Offer them a token. Perhaps you’ll hear of a family facing eviction. Offer them a token. Maybe you’ll meet someone who has no place to go. Offer them a token of hope, and the sending, saving work of God will continue and it will continue through you.”

Julie Chin, a local television news anchor in the Tulsa area, served as mistress of ceremonies for the event, sharing the message of The Salvation Army and its programs while also conducting a question-and-answer session with Tebow near the conclusion of the evening. The ballroom entrance featured a theme of a bridge that The Salvation Army can be to others, and she outlined that connection and the feeling of community.

“When we share a token with you to share with others, this is just another way to take action and demonstrate our ‘Love Beyond’ message,” Chin said. “We hope that together, as a community, we can welcome folks to move toward a new future. When people come to our Center of Hope, we hope to give them a bridge to a brighter tomorrow.”

Videos were shown to inform attendees on the work happening at Salvation Army Boys & “Booth Gala...” continued on page 11

CANDIDATES

Nehemiah: The Need is the Call

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

While being “cupbearer” sounds like little more than a glorified waiter, in ancient times it was far more important. Nehemiah’s primary duty was to protect by being the first to taste any food or drink served to the king to guard against poisoning. Just knowing that someone would intercept that means of assassination reduced the efforts to try, so it wasn’t quite as dangerous as it sounds. Beyond that, because the cupbearer was always in the king’s presence, he could be on friendly terms with the king. Because he was there to listen in on even the most intimate and secret conversations, a cupbearer often became a trusted advisor. While anyone could be a taster, that nearby advisor was a role that made the cupbearer highly influential and important in the palace.

What was even more fascinating is that Nehemiah, as a Jew, was considered a foreigner serving in this coveted position. As told in the Book of Esther, the Jews as a people were almost destroyed in a genocide but now, not only had Esther become queen and Mordecai become prime minister, but Nehemiah was now cupbearer.

But despite his high position in the palace, like most Jews that were taken captive by the Babylonians and now serving under the Persians, his heart longed for the Promised Land that now lay in ruins. Some of the Jews had made their way back to rebuild Jerusalem and inhabit what

had been the nation of Israel. Their lack of progress was brought into sharp focus when Nehemiah heard news of the condition of things back home. Hanani reported, “Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire” (Nehemiah 1:3). A triumphant troop had marched back to rebuild but instead the place remained in ruins.

Nehemiah was heartbroken. He went before the Lord, pleading with Him to provide deliverance for His people. Somewhere along the way, he quit praying for “them,” and started praying for “us.” His security, his prestige, his fame didn’t mean anything. There was nothing more important than that this need be met and increasingly, Nehemiah realized that God meant for him to step up and do something about it. This was no promotion. It was the road of sacrifice paved with opposition and hardship. But the urgency of the task caused Nehemiah to risk everything.

In ancient days, to appear sad or depressed in front of the king was to risk your life. Yet, the heart burden for Nehemiah was so great, he could not hide it. He recorded, “The king asked me, ‘Why does your face look so sad when you are not ill? This can be nothing but sadness of heart.’ I was very much afraid, but I said to the king, ‘May the king live forever! Why should my face not look sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire?’” (Nehemiah 2:2-3). Nehemiah might have signed his own death warrant but instead, God spoke to this pagan king and the doors were opened. How often have people given up without trying because they were concerned with how people would react? If God has laid it on your heart, trust Him

to move the unmovable for His own glory.

When Nehemiah made the long trip to Jerusalem, a city he had never seen when it was in its glory, he found heaps of rubble, trash choking it, a people wavering between discouragement and apathy. From the glory of the palace to the poverty of his people, Nehemiah’s call was hardly a sound career move. When a person follows God’s call, it does not mean that there will be a red carpet welcome. Because one is obedient, God will not pave a superhighway to drive on. There is work, hard work, and a lot of it. Jesus was clear. “Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow Me” (Matthew 16:24). Following means we go where we are led, knowing that His way is better than any other way we might have chosen for ourselves.

What did Nehemiah face?

• The moldy ruins of a once great city

• A people who had forgotten their mission to rebuild

• Building material that was little more than glorified gravel

• Enemies who surrounded and hounded him

• The lure of compromise to do less, be less than God wanted

• Betrayal by those who should have been most loyal

• People whose promises were abandoned when they began to feel the pinch

Yet.

Yet with all this Nehemiah rallied the troops, set them to the task with specific duties, even the weakest among them. While on their guard, as Nehemiah records, “the people worked with all their heart” (Nehemiah 4:6). From rubble rose a wall in an astounding 52 days, thoroughly confounding the enemies of the Jews.

Yes, Nehemiah might have had a great career and a cushy retirement had he stayed in the palace. And yes, he might never have faced danger, poverty or the trials of working with difficult people. But had he not, there would have been no wall. His most important work was in a faraway place in a place of desolation. But the need was the call. Nehemiah heeded that call of God and was able to see wonders unfold.

What will you do?

CANDIDATES My Calling: A Testimony

BY LT. ANTONIO HODGES

I’m from Portsmouth, Virginia. My mom migrated from Antigua, West Indies. After a failed marriage, my siblings and I were raised by a single mom who did all she could. She worked a fulltime job as well as being a full-time student. I got to the Army through one of our babysitters who introduced our family to The Salvation Army. I was two, my sister was three and a half and my brother was nine. Our first officers were the Penhales. My mom did all she could, we pretty much were taken in by the Penhales. I saw The Salvation Army serving at a very early age and that changed the trajectory of our lives.

I always wanted to know that I could in the same way give back to the community and others the way that Army did for me. So I’ve felt from an early age that I was called. I felt like God wanted me to give back. I’ve always wanted to serve, to help.

In high school, I fell in love with cooking. I was in the restaurant life becoming a manager for a few restaurants. I had a chance to work at the home office to open new restaurants, train people, and set those up. I feel like God owns all of that. I met my wife, who was a behavior therapist helping autistic children. I thought that was going to be our life. I feel like I was called earlier, but my wife had different plans, so we lived our life for that.

Then one day she said, “Well, I feel like I’m called.” Afterwards we butted heads a couple of times. I was excited when she told me, but I didn’t believe it because we’d already gone through this discussion. We decided that we were going to fulfill our calling to officership. God used everything that we had for this. I see that He was ordering our way the whole time.

We entered training in 2019 and were hit by the Covid shutdown. It was different. But I thank God for our training experience. The community we had through the pandemic era allowed us to do things together differently but handle it so that everything worked out.

When I became an officer, I already knew what officers went through, but that was on the outside looking in. Finally stepping into it I saw you truly impact the lives of others. People bring their heaviness to you and pour out their lives. Seeing life and what people go through is where you start to grow.

The hardest thing about officership is understanding all the hats we have to put on. It’s not just an officer hat or a pastoral care hat, or social service—it’s a lot of everything. An officer becomes the one-stop shop for a lot of people that depend on the Army. You want to be all of that at the same time. You want to jump in and do whatever it takes to help others, serve and be there for them. I want to be all in and give it all that I got. That can be overwhelming sometimes.

I’m very excited about my wife and me doing this ministry together with my family. Together we are all doing this, and we all share our ups and downs together. It’s exciting to my wife and I growing and seeing our kids right there with us through everything. It’s a lot of love, a lot of smiles, and even a little sad times—together.

For anyone who might read this and feels like God is speaking to them about being an officer I would say that God’s calling is for all of us. Once you know that’s what God wants you to do in The Salvation Army, don’t look back to other things. You can fully go in knowing that this is what God has called you to do. Share your light through this avenue, no matter what happens. Even if you’re young, you can grow and be strengthened by your calling.

I thank God for the walk that we have. It goes through different routes. He’ll always be with you if you follow His plan and lean on His direction. He’ll always get you to right exactly where you need to be. We have a feeding program and my restaurant life and serving customers helps a lot. I never knew that I could use that or that would be my greatest advantage so that we have one of the strongest feeding programs in this area. God let me use all of that. He’ll take anything and it’s going to be beautiful.

ACADEMY for MISSION PREPAREDNESS

The Salvation Army’s Academy of Mission Preparedness (AMP) is a resource tool for mission and ministry-minded individuals to further develop their gifts and skills. The overall goal is to provide a path for participants to increase their impact for God in today’s world. These course are self-paced and offered online, with offerings in biblical studies, leadership development, personal growth, and Salvation Army foundation.

To apply, scan the QR code or visit sldleadership.org.

When visiting the website, log-in with a USS email or create an account. Once the sign-in is complete, continue the enrollment process by navigating to the SA learn home page and clicking the “Academy for Mission Preparedness” box before choosing the desired category. From there, begin the first lesson with the ability to cycle back to other courses without leaving the site.

SIGN-UP PROCESS

1. Scroll down to AMP offerings. Click “Enter”. Browse categories. Select the desired course. Choose “click here” Then “Click here to start”.

2. If you have a USS email, click the red login button. If you do not have a USS email, click “Create Account” where prompted at the bottom of the page.

3. Create a username and password.

4. Input your email address, first and last name, then click “Create my new account”.

5. Click “continue” and go to your email account for verification.

6. Click the link in your email. It will take you to the learn.sauss.net page.

7. Once sign-in is complete continue the enrollment process.

ENROLLMENT PROCESS

• Go to SA learn home page and click the Academy for Mission Preparedness box. Choose desired course category. Example: Click on the Leadership Development category. Click Intro to Leadership (ITL). Scroll down and click on “Enroll me”. You are now enrolled.

• Click the first lesson to begin.

• To enroll in additional courses, go back to the start of the enrollment process by clicking on TSA Shield at the top left side of the page and choose your next course.

Lt. Antonio Hodges

World Services Report

Mexico & Liberia

BY MAJOR RAY COOPER, TERRITORIAL OVERSEAS PROJECTS OFFICER

One 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.

MEXICO

Facilities Recovery

Acapulco Children’s Home

With the earthquake of September 7, 2021, three buildings of the Acapulco Children’s Home were seriously damaged, closing them. As a consequence, adjustments had to be made in other buildings that did not suffer damage to keep the home open to attend our beneficiaries.

Renovations of the buildings without damage and demolishing the damaged buildings will allow the children’s home to continue operating. If this is not done the government will close the program. As a consequence of this, we will not be able to continue attending to children offering them a secure environment, so they can be safe and accept the gospel message.

Support for this project comes from the funds of USA Southern Territory Home Leagues. 2023 is the 75th year Southern Territory Home Leagues have been supporting the work of children’s homes across Mexico.

LIBERIA

Monrovia City Corps – YP Hall

The Salvation Army Monrovia City Corps was constructed in 1994 and has gone 25 years with no major renovation and repair. The corps initially constructed without an officers’ quarters. Instead, a mini-hall was constructed and used temporarily as the young peoples’ worship hall. Because of the increase in membership and the growth of the corps, the building is unable to accommodate both the adult meetings and the young people meeting at the same time.

This project will advance the mission of Army through the following means:

1. Provide a stand-alone worship hall for young people’s training and activities.

2. Provide a conducive living environment for the corps officers assigned in the corps for full-time service.

3. Reduce and eliminate leakage of the roof of the corps.

4. Save assets and human lives.

Mexico

Liberia

Girls Clubs in the region, as well as Tulsa’s Center of Hope. Program highlights were interspersed through the comments shared from the podium, and the William Booth Society Gala chairs, Angela & Sean Kouplen and Terri & Roger Ramseyer, hosted a two-minute “live ask” donation drive. The chairs diagrammed a challenge grant from ten individuals that pledged to match every dollar raised over the two-minute period, up to $52,000, in an effort to maximize the fundraising power of room such as this.

At the conclusion of the night, an art auction was held, as two paintings signed by Tebow netted considerable donations, all toward The Salvation Army’s mission. Prior to that final fundraising push, however, Tebow extolled the virtues of the Army’s work while also sharing his personal experiences.

After speaking on the work of his foundation in The Philippines and with those abroad, Tebow centered the impact that can be made close to home.

“You don’t have to go across the world to see people who are starving for hope,” he said. “You can simply walk outside. There are so many here who need you to be the bridge to finding hope. Gotham City doesn’t need you, but Tulsa does. The Salvation Army does. The Center of Hope does. The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club does. And the question is whether we are willing to dive in and say yes.”

Adult Rehabilitation Centers

Tebow memorably intertwined his sporting experiences, while also engaging with the local crowd in a playful manner, but he was also consistent in driving home the real purpose of the evening.

“As fun as it is to talk about sports and to talk about other passions, hopefully we are all that much more passionate about why we’re here,” said Tebow. “What we’re doing here is eternal and it won’t be forgotten. When we’re talking about a Center of Hope, we’re not talking about an average, ordinary thing. We’re talking about people who are starving for hope, and they need you to be the bridge to that hope.”

“I believe that every single one of us, when we have breath, we have purpose, and that means we have a chance to make an impact in people’s lives. We have that chance tonight to be the bridge so that people can experience hope. And when we say hope, we don’t mean the hope of winning a game, that’s not the biblical hope. We look forward with confidence, expectation, and anticipation. The confidence that we have a really big God, the expectation that our God’s not done working, and the anticipation that our best days are ahead of us because heaven is ahead of us… Our hope is based on the promises of God that never change. They’re the same yesterday, today, and forever. So, when you are a bridge to hope, you’re not wishing on a star, it’s based on the promises of God.”

Finally, Tebow left an indelible image for many with a simple challenge to donors, board members, employees, soldiers, and officers in attendance on a night that will be remembered locally for a long time.

“My question to all of us tonight is will we not just love people when we feel like it, but we’ll love people because we’re willing to choose their best interest and we’re willing to act on their behalf. Whether we know them or not, or whether we’ve met them or not, because we know God loves them. We know we’re called to. We know they’re worth it. And that means that we’re going to love even when it hurts, because every single person is worth it. Can you imagine the impact we could make if we made that choice?”

Camp

“Booth Gala...” continued from page 7

WORD SEARCH (ANSWERS)

Charlotte Temple’s SPA Hits

All the Right Notes for Corps Growth

PHOTOS AND STORY BY MAJOR FRANK DURACHER

Every Tuesday afternoon and evening, something big is happening at the Charlotte Temple Corps in the North and South Carolina Division (NSC). Character-building and a love for music, arts, dance and drama are lovingly promoted by thirty adult volunteers who are sharing in different ways, their mentoring of the community’s youth. Best of all, the gospel is promoted and the corps is drawing entire families into its fold.

Charlotte Temple’s “School for Performing Arts” (SPA) is a coordinated effort to meet a variety of needs among children and teens, many recruited through the Marsh Road Boys & Girls Club operated by the corps. Other children are being drawn from the neighborhood and from families already connected to the corps.

“The genesis for a corps SPA actually began in 2016, when (then) Divisional Music Director, Leon Kirkpatrick, had the idea for a regional gathering to augment the NSC’s Divisional School of Arts,” explains Captain Mike McGee, Charlotte Temple corps officer. “It worked for a while, with musicians from surrounding corps participated. But the wheels came off in March 2020 when COVID hit.”

When COVID restrictions finally loosened in the second half of 2021, Temple Corps leaders were anxious to restart regular programs, particularly with an emphasis on ministry to children and teens.

“That led us to hold our first Corps Leadership Summit,” Captain Mike says. “Everyone was invited to participate in the two-day event—soldiers, friends, active officers, retired officers, neighbors. A more focused concept of a music and arts school emerged, and so Charlotte Temple’s S.P.A. was born.”

The captain says that on the first Tuesday, 13 children and seven adult volunteers showed up. Eighteen months later, attendance is 35 kids and 20 adult volunteers.

“We elected to hold three semesters per year—Fall, Winter, and Spring—with a Sunday morning graduation concert ‘Showcase’ is held to invite parents and families to come witness what their kids have learned,” he says.

The corps SPA departs from the prior regional version in that the curriculum is a narrower focus of classes that results in a better quality of program. While students enjoy a hot meal and go on to specialized music and arts classes, Captain Rebecca McGee is posted in the corps lobby to welcome visiting parents and others dropping by to see what all the excitement is about.

“What’s equally exciting is how parents, coming into the corps to witness what their child is experiencing, are themselves volunteering,” says Captain Rebecca. “Several such individuals and families have even become corps attendees and later enrolled as soldiers.” Added to that is the happy fact that some of the volunteers have no music background of their own—but are anxious to contribute what gifts they do have in order to promote their child’s positive development.

Kadiean Cameron is one such parent. Her two children have music talents now discovered and are advancing in several of the classes. Although

NEWS BRIEFS

• In Chattanooga, Tennessee, The Salvation received donations from across the city, including from the McCallie School, to provide Easter meals for senior adults. The Salvation Army’s social services team distributed more than 50 Easter baskets with key items to complete a memorable Easter meal for those in need.

• Others Trade for Hope, a global social justice initiative of The Salvation Army, is celebrating its 25th anniversary of promoting hope, independence, and dignity for 1,200 Kenyan and Bangladeshi women. “At Others, we are proud to provide high-quality, handcrafted gifts, support women artisans, and provide a global platform to sell their creations,” said April Foster, Others Director. “We cannot underestimate the difference that dignified work and a global partnership can have to change the course of someone’s life and the lives of their children.” Others has worked with women and men in vulnerable communities to make practical and beautiful products that are fairly traded and sold across the world, including in the United States, Canada, and Norway. This program combats poverty, provides education, and creates sustainable employment with freedom from exploitation.

• The Sarasota (Florida) Coalition on Substance Abuse honored its 2023 award winners

in March, headlined by Lt. Colonel Michele Matthews, area commander. This award recognized the leadership and community contributions of Lt. Colonel Mathews, including service following Hurricane Ian and the oversight of The Salvation Army’s efforts in the region when combating homelessness.

• Jasmine Higgins was named 2023 Youth of the Year for the Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Charlotte. Higgins, a senior at Mallard Creek High School, has been a member at the Belmont Avenue Boys & Girls Club for nearly 12 years. “Before I came to the Boys & Girls Club, I was very timid and shy,” Higgins said. “The Boys & Girls Club gave me a safe space to openly express myself without being afraid to do so.” Jasmine is on the cheerleading and track teams, as well as being a member of the National Honors Society with a 4.3 grade point average. Amy Hudson, executive director for The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Charlotte, describes Jasmine as “a remarkable, determined young woman who fully embodies all the traits you look for in the prestigious Youth of the Year competition.”

• In Annapolis, Maryland, The Salvation Army received a $55,000 donation from the Merrill Family Foundation that is accompanied by a matching grant. This donation and matching

her son, Kyle, admits that his favorite part of the evening is “the food!” Kyle, 12, is learning piano and plays a brass horn both at his school and here with the Temple Corps Band. Alyssa, 10, is learning piano.

Each Tuesday begins long before the children arrive. Divisional Sergeant-Major Eddie Laity and four faithful ladies arrive around 3 p.m. to begin cooking and setting tables for a hot supper for the SPA students and volunteers. Their weekly work is an unofficial Women’s Ministries outreach, Eddie’s participation notwithstanding.

“To me it’s very meaningful,” says Lois Jackson, a volunteer for two years now. “I’ve always been a person to give, and in my church in Ohio, we fixed dinner, so when I moved down here and (Major) Miriam (Musgrave) asked me to help, I immediately said ‘Yes!’ and I’m so glad that I did.”

Another cook/volunteer. Dorrette Hextall, echoes her love for this ministry. “I love helping out. In Jamaica, I was a librarian, so I was used to working with children and adults. Now I can come and make myself useful by doing my part to help these children. That makes me feel good.”

grant are geared toward a new HVAC system for the corps gymnasium and additional renovations to the facility. In addition to corps activities, the gym hosts outside sports groups and after-school programs. “We hope this challenge grant encourages others to give and help provide a safe place for kids to exercise, play and grow,” said foundation president Nancy Merrill. The matching grant is available until November 1, 2023.

• AT&T and The Salvation Army are partnering to address the digital divide in Palm Beach County, Florida. As part of an extensive international commitment launched in 2021, AT&T launched a connected learning center at The Salvation Army’s NW Community Center. This brings a range of digital resources, including high-speed internet and computers, as well as free educational resources, tutoring, and mentoring from AT&T employees. “We are grateful to AT&T for their generous support which will allow us to offer more programming opportunities at our NW Community Center. Corporate supporters like AT&T are vital to our efforts to provide hope to those in the community who need it,” said Major James (Chip) Hall, area commander. “We are pleased to have these new computers as we continue to pilot new educational programs for our Palm Beach Community.”

“Charlotte...” continued on page 13

Fred Williams, Boys & Girls Club staff member, helps a young teen with her homework.

Joulia Mulongo works with a new piano student.

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After dinner, around 5:45, the students move to the chapel, where Captain Mike leads all of the kids in a singing company class, with Judy Griswold on the piano. A devotional is always given, emphasizing the great news of the gospel. While singing is going on, the kitchen and dining room volunteers are cleaning up after supper and setting chairs for upcoming classes. It is a beehive of activity throughout the corps.

“Having everyone taking the singing company class helps set the foundation for whatever instrument or art skills they elect to learn,” the captain says.

The timing for both serving dinner and then singing company is purposeful. “It’s no secret that Charlotte traffic can be a bear,” Captain Mike muses, “so our instructors getting off of work can get here, get a bite to eat, and catch their breath before setting their class up.”

At 6:15, it is time to migrate to the specialized classes: brass band, guitar, piano, art, and handbells. By 7:00, the students and volunteers are free to leave, except those that elect to stay for Temple Band and/or Praise Band rehearsals. The Praise Band has grown from four to 13. “Some people remain or even ‘drop by’ just to listen to the music,” says Captain Mike. “In fact, it’s not unusual for some to remain for fellowship or to play pingpong long after everyone else has gone home.”

Note here, that the corps growth is not only bringing in kids and parents. This program is also aimed at established soldiers and corps families. The three tenets for the Temple Corps mission are “Worship (Love God), Grow (Holiness Together), and Serve (Impact Others).”

“From the outset, we are encouraging our soldiery to first, Worship,” explains Captain Rebecca. “Worship produces spiritual Growth, which then leads to Service in at least one area of ministry— much of this coming about through volunteering in SPA—like cooking dinner, set-up and clean-up, music and art instruction; even being present in classes as per Safe From Harm standards.”

And, of course, Growth and Service lead back to Worship, she adds.

AJ Mitchell works at the North and South Carolina Divisional Headquarters as assistant music and arts director; but he is also a faithful soldier of Temple Corps and volunteers in several areas of SPA, including guitar class.

“I’ve seen kids grow musically and spiritually,” AJ says. “The kids come in ready and hungry to learn more. The class grows every semester and when the parents come by to pick them up, they do not want to leave!”

Major Pete Costas is a former Temple corps officer—now he and his wife, Major Cathy, are retired officers attending the corps.

“It’s important for these young musicians to learn and to grow and to experience what it means to have these gifts—and to develop these gifts God has given to them,” Major Pete says.

One former instructor, Nathan Cole, states, “I’ve seen these kids stand up and perform in front of a big, live audience; something they didn’t think they could have done 12 months before!”

The Charlotte Temple Corps is on to something. Definite progress can be seen, not only in their behavior and character, but in their belief in God. Budding musicians and artists represent great stories of learning untapped skills to take back into their school and home environments and to become more well-rounded individuals.

Adult Rehabilitation Centers

WORD LIST:

BIRMINGHAM

HOUSTON

Captain Rebecca McGee prays grace with SPA students before their dinner.

APPOINTMENTS

On behalf of the Territorial Commander, Commissioner Kelly Igleheart, we are very pleased to announce the following appointments effective Monday, June 19, 2023, unless otherwise stated.

SOUTHERN TERRITORY HEADQUARTERS

Major Anne Westmoreland, Terr. Ministries to Women Secretary; Major Bobby Westmoreland, Asst. Sec. for Personnel; Captain Tonya Farrington, Finance Trainee; Major Valencia Lewis, Social Svc Support Officer; Major Matthew and Jamie Satterlee, Territorial Youth Secretaries; Major Christopher and Lynda Thornhill, Sec. Designate—Mission, Evangelism, Cultural Ministries

ADULT REHABILITATION CENTERS

Major Luis Melendez, Chaplain—ARC Command

EVANGELINE BOOTH COLLEGE

Major Susan McElroy, Curriculum Officer (Retaining Current Appointment); Captain Jason Moore, Asst. Dir. Of Personnel; Captain Michelle Moore, Asst. Dir. Of Mission and Ministry; Lieutenant Cristina Drozdovschi, Personnel Officer

ALABAMA, LOUISIANA & MISSISSIPPI DIVISION

Major Edward and Carla Binnix, Area Commander—New Orleans, LA; Major Timothy and Bethany Delaney, Corps Officer—Jackson, MS; Major Donald Dohmann, General Secretary; Major Laura Dohmann, Div. Sec. for Program; Major Butch and Lisa Frost, Corps Officer— Montgomery, AL (June 28, 2023); Major Bill and Brenda Shafer, Corps Officer—Alexandria, LA; Captain Michael and Lieutenant Schelika Chisolm, Corps Officer—Tuscaloosa, AL; Captain Breann and Lieutenant Zachary Good, Kroc Center Officer for Cong. Life—Mississippi Gulf Coast Kroc Center; Captain Thomas and LeAnna Marion, Corps Officer—Tupelo, MS; Captain Bruce and Tavia Williams, Corps Officer, Lafayette, LA; Lt. Thomas Johnson, Corps Officer— Columbus, MS; Sergeant Jim and Becky Lahman, Corps Admin.—Decatur, AL

ARKANSAS & OKLAHOMA DIVISION

Major Carlyle and Charlotte Gargis, Area Commander—Tulsa, OK, Corps Officer—Tulsa (Citadel); Major Mark and Becky Gilliam, Corps Officer—Oklahoma City (Citadel); Captain Chris Bryant, Div. Sec. for Business; Captain Kelly Bryant, Div. Program Officer; Captain Ian and Brittany Carr, Corps Officer—Shawnee, OK; Captain Stephanie Christopher, Corps Officer—Russellville, AR; Captain Russell and Jamie Clay, Area Commander—Central Oklahoma; Captain Patrick and Stacey Connelly, Area Commander—Northwest Arkansas; Lt. Mariah Deshazo, Corps Officer—Sand Springs, OK

FLORIDA DIVISION

Major Ethan and Sue Frizzell, Area Commander—Ft. Myers, Corps Officer—Ft. Myers; Major Juan and Bivi Guadalupe, Area Commander—Fort Lauderdale, Corps Officer—Fort Lauderdale; Major Tom and Jennifer Richmond, Corps Officer—Bradenton; Major Gary and Beth Sturdivant, Area Commander—St. Petersburg; Major Mark and Rhea Dawn Woodcock, Area Commander—Tampa/Hillsborough County; Captain Dominic and Ivelisse Blanford, Corps Officer—Port Richey (Pasco County); Captain Will and Veronica Conley, Corps Officer—Naples; Captain James Curry, Corps Of-

ficer—Sarasota; Captain Heather Dolby, Corps Officer—Jacksonville (Citadel); Captain Andrea Israel, Div. Candidates’ Secretary, Div. Evangelism & Adult Ministries Secretary; Captain Tim Israel, Finance Trainee; Captain Arnaldo and Niurka Peña, Corps Officer—Panama City; Captain Christopher and Jessica Welch, Corps Officer—St. Petersburg (Citadel); Lt. Cornelius and Noldine Watson, Corps Officer—Tampa/Hillsborough County; Sgt. Ronnie and Dana Gainey, Corps Admin.—Orlando (Citadel)

GEORGIA DIVISION

Major Cindy Corbitt, Div. Sec. for Program, Div. Sec. for Women’s Ministries; Major Barry Corbitt, General Secretary; Major Hank and Eunice Harwell, Corps Officer—Rome; Major James and Susan Shiels, Corps Officer—Atlanta (Temple); Major Tim Williford, Corps Officer—Griffin; Captain Tim and Paula Blevins, Corps Officer—Warner Robins; Captain Andre and Debora Pereira, Corps Officer—Columbus; Captain Andy Seiler, Div. Sec. for Personnel and Property; Captain Jason and Melissa Smith, Corps Officer—Savannah; Captain Jose and Yamira Valentin, Corps Officer—Gainesville; Lt. Sebastian and Nathalie Arroqui, Corps Officer—Dalton; Sgt. April McCormick, Asst. Corps Admin.—Savannah

KENTUCKY & TENNESSEE DIVISION

Major Karen Egan, Div. Sec. for Women’s Ministries; Major Paul Egan, Div. Sec. for Personnel; Major Tim and Cheryl Gilliam, Area Commander—Memphis, TN, Sr. Kroc Center Officer— Memphis; Major Mike and Captain Lisa Good, Corps Officer—Louisville (Portland), KY; Major Mark and Lorie Hunter, Area Commander— Louisville, KY, Corps Officer—Louisville (Sanders Mission); Major Doug and Storm McClure, Area Commander—Chattanooga, TN; Captain Ken Griffey, Jr., Corps Officer—Madisonville, KY; Captain Alyssa and Lt. Judah Irvin, Corps Officer—Danville, KY; Captain George Keith, Officer for Magnes Potter & Trevecca Student Ministry—Nashville, TN; Captain Carrie McCall, Corps Officer—Middlesboro, KY

NORTH & SOUTH CAROLINA DIVISION

Major Roger and Melody Coulson, Corps Officer—High Point, NC; Major Patrick Gesner, Div. Sec. for Business; Captain Laura Gesner, Div. Sec. for Women’s Ministries; Major Mike and Christine Harris, Area Commander—Greenville, SC, Sr. Kroc Center Officer—Greenville; Major David and Mikyung Lee, Corps Officer—Winston-Salem (Kernersville), NC; Major Beth Mallard, Corps Officer—Winstom-Salem (Citadel), NC; Major Bill McKinley, Corps Officer—Goldsboro, NC; Captain Emily Arroqui, Asst. Div. Sec. for Women’s Ministries; Captain Nic Arroqui, Asst. Div. Sec. for Business; Captain Jeffrey and Lea Brooks, Corps Officer—Spartanburg, SC; Captain Jason and Bethany Burns, Area Commander—Charlotte, NC; Captain Teresa Bush, Corps Officer—Salisbury, NC

POTOMAC DIVISION

Major Chris and Sandy Flanagan, Area Commander—Hampton Roads, VA; Major George and Robin Hackbarth, Corps Officer—Leesburg (Loudoun County), VA; Major Young and Heeran Lim, Corps Officer—Alexandria (Korean-Landmark), VA; Major Todd and Wilma Mason, Area Commander—National Capital; Major Sarah Nelson, Div. Sec. for Program, Div Sec. for Women’s Ministries; Captain Dan Nelson, General Secretary; Major Cristina and Captain

Matthew Trantham, Corps Officer—Roanoke, VA; Captain Liz Blusiewicz, Corps Officer— Beckley, WV; Captain Charlene Cover, Corps Officer—Baltimore (Temple), MD; Captain Shimei Hewitt, Officer for Congregational Life— Hampton Roads Kroc Center; Captain Samuel and Christine Kim, Area Commander—Central Virginia; Captain Lars-Otto and Ingrid Ljungholm, Corps Officer—Alexandria, VA; Captain Pradeep and Priscilla Ramaji, Corps Officer— Martinsburg, VA; Captain Angel and Lt. Shawn Simmons, Corps Officer—Salisbury, MD; Captain Gary and Denise Stewart, Corps Officer— Covington, VA; Captain Mark and Jennifer Van Meter, Corps Officer—Charlottesville, VA; Lt. Johnathan and Kelsey Meredith, Corps Officer—Suffolk, VA; Sgt. John and Sharon McKee, Corps Admin.—Hyattsville (Prince Georges), MD; Noah and Bailey Lind, Corps Admin.— Christiansburg (New River Valley), VA

TEXAS DIVISION

Major Debra Chambliss, Asst. Div. Sec. for Program; Major Nathanael and Lucila Doria, Corps Officer—Corpus Christi; Major Angel and Maria Hernandez, Corps Officer—Harlingen, TX; Major Linda Keeney, Asst. to the Area Commander—Houston; Major Jose and Candi Marquez, Corps Officer—Dallas (Pleasant Grove); Major Guy and Dolores Watts, Corps Officer— Denton; Major Robert and Shannon Winters, Corps Officer—Orange; Major Doris Lawrence, Div. Dir. Of Women’s Ministries; Major David Swyers, Corps Officer—Texas City, Galveston (614); Captain Jennifer and Lt. Paul Chisholm, Corps Officer—Paris; Captain Whitney Houston, Corps Officer Designate—San Antonio (Center of Hope); Captain Jimmy Parrish, General Secretary; Captain Lacy Parrish, Div. Sec. for Personnel; Captain Luis and Marianne Villanueva, Corps Officer—Bryan (College Station); Captain Justin and Stephanie Vincent, Corps Officer—Odessa; Captain Frankie and Jan Zuniga, Corps Officer—McAllen; Jeff and Tammie Miracle, Corps Admin.—Freeport

We express our gratitude for a job well done in their present appointments and our prayer for these officers as they prepare their hearts and minds for these new responsibilities.

Expressing appreciation to those farewelling and entering retirement in the coming months:

Sergeant Leslie Ashby, Sergeant Mary Ashby, Major David Craddock, Major Karen Craddock, Major Chris Farrell, Major Heidi Farrell, Major Michael Hawley, Major Russ Keeney, Major Amelia Kelly, Major Harry Kelly, Major Connie Long, Major Stephen Long, Major Laura Melendez, Major Rebecca Mott, Major Ronald Mott, Major Stephen Na, Major Sujung Na, Major Charles Powell, Major Paula Powell, Major Vicki Strong, Major Walter Strong

Expressing appreciation to those retired officers who have had active appointments and are re-entering retirement in the coming months:

Major Dianna Blevins, Major John Blevins, Captain Catherine Burleigh, Captain Duane Burleigh, Major Kelly Durant, Major Regina Durant, Major Candelaria Elias, Major Gabriel Elias, Major John Fuller, Major Nancy Fuller, Major Patricia Hambrick, Major Margaret Kennell, Major Harvey Johnson, Major Virginia Johnson, Captain Mark Love, Captain Sally Love, Major Michael Morton, Major Nettie Morton, Lt. Colonel Shirley White

Spirit of the South

100 Years Ago

In the District of Columbia, General John J. (Blackjack) Pershing, who headed the American Expeditionary Force in the Great War, has endorsed The Salvation Army’s campaign to raise $30,000 in the district. In doing so, Pershing said, “No more practical instrument of Christianity and charity exists than The Salvation Army. The Salvation Army by its work abroad has secured to itself the lasting esteem of the boys who fought over there and who were ministered to by the self-sacrificing workers.” Contributions should be sent to The Salvation Army headquarters at 607 E Street Northwest. Evening Star (District of Columbia), May 25, 1923.

75 Years Ago

Salvation Army bands will gather for a two day conference in Anniston, Alabama. A concert will be presented at Jordan High School Auditorium and featuring bands from Atlanta Temple, Birmingham, Columbus (GA), Anniston, Griffin (GA), Pensacola and Beallwood (Atlanta). Colonel E.C. Hoffman, chief secretary for the fifteen Southern states will preside. Also featured will be vocal soloist, Captain William Goodier from Louisville, KY and Major Frank Longino, an outstanding trombone soloist. Sunday morning’s session will be held at the Georgia Power Auditorium, with the concluding program Sunday night at the Anniston Corps building located on Second Avenue. Ledger-Inquirer (Columbus, GA), May 1, 1948.

50 Years Ago

Emergency units from Tulsa, Muskogee, and Enid have crossed the state boundary to render aid to victims of the tornado that ravaged Jonesboro, AR. According to Major Orville Salmon, divisional commander of the Oklahoma/Arkansas Division, “Our funds are nearly depleted, but we have an adequate supply of clothing and bedding on hand.” The Jonesboro disaster is the seventh emergency workers were called out in the last ten weeks. As of Monday night, over 20,000 meals had been served to tornado victims and workers in the Jonesboro area. The Daily Oklahoman (Oklahoma City, OK), May 29, 1973.

25 Years Ago

Students in Smyrna, TN collected “Pennies for a Purpose”, turning over their treasure of $522.33 to The Salvation Army in Murfreesboro, TN. Patty Short, the teacher who headed up the project, said she did so to demonstrate to students they “even at a young age can make an impact on their community.” Kathy Wheeler, the social service director for The Salvation Army, told the students, “The money you donated will go to provide meals for our homeless shelter and day care.” The Daily News-Journal (Murfreesboro, TN) May 7, 1998.

“Go straight for souls, and go for the worst.”

WILLIAM BOOTH

PROMOTED TO GLORY

Major Teresa Hawley

Major Teresa Hawley was Promoted to Glory, at the age of 66, on the afternoon of March 6, 2023, surrounded by her family.

Teresa Kaye Powell was born in New Bern, North Carolina on January 3, 1957, to Charles and Addie Powell. Her family faithfully attended the corps, and at age 16 while attending Territorial Youth Institute, she gave her heart to Christ during vespers one night.

“(We) were standing around the cross for vespers, singing softly, and listening to the devotional,” she wrote in her Candidate’s questionnaire. “I knew I needed Jesus as my Savior, and that I didn’t have Him first place in my life. Then (the speaker) said, ‘You have to come to the cross, to Jesus, for salvation.’ He said that all one has to do is to repent and believe. So, I tried it. No thunder flashed; but it was real. He forgave me!”

Teresa received her calling to be a Salvation Army officer one year later. She entered the Evangeline Booth College in 1976 as a member of the Disciples Of Jesus session of cadets. Commissioned with the rank of lieutenant on June 4, 1978, her first appointment was to assist in Gaffney, South Carolina. Later, Lieutenant Powell was sent to assist in Roanoke, Virginia.

She married Lieutenant Michael Hawley on February 16, 1979. Together they served as corps officers in Washington (Southeast), D.C.; Prince William, Virginia; and Princeton, West Virginia.

Their overseas service began in 1983 with a nine-year appointment to West Germany. Returning to the U.S. in 1992, Captains Hawley were posted as corps officers in Harrisonburg, Virginia; followed by the same position in Lynchburg, Virginia.

Work on divisional and territorial staffs began in 1997, when Captain Teresa was made assistant divisional women’s ministries secretary for the Kentucky-Tennessee Division. In June 1999, the Hawleys arrived at the Southern Territory Headquarters, where Major Teresa became associate evangelism and adult ministries secretary. Then back to divisional service, where Major Teresa worked as assistant divisional women’s ministries secretary for the Texas Division.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, Majors Hawley went to the New Orleans Area Command, where she was coordinator of women’s ministries.

Overseas service resumed in 2008, when they were sent to open the Army’s work in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates—terms that lasted four years. In 2012, she was named coordinator of women’s services for the Louisville Area Command, in Kentucky.

Major Teresa became secretary for personnel in the North and South Carolina Division in 2014; then as secretary for women’s ministries and secretary for program for the Alabama-Louisiana-Mississippi Division in 2018.

In 2021, Major Teresa was named territorial program officer at THQ; where she was due to retire in August 2023, serving faithfully as an active officer for 45 years.

Major Teresa Hawley is preceded in death by her father, Charles Thomas Powell, himself Promoted to Glory just one month prior.

She is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, Major Michael Hawley; her mother, Addie Powell; two sisters, Freda (Bob) Bullock; and Darlene Nanney; one brother, Major Charles (Paula) Powell; four children, Aaron (Barclay) Hawley; Meagan Heronemus; Janet (Shobi) Issa; Bethany (Tim) Farrell; and seven grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life was held on Friday, March 10, 2023, at the Atlanta Temple Corps with a committal service following at the Westview Cemetery.

PROMOTED TO GLORY

Pat

Germany, Order of the Founder

Pat Germany, O.F., was Promoted to Glory from her home on March 12, 2023. She was 89.

Pansy Lee Wylie was born on December 12, 1933, in Charlotte, North Carolina to parents James and Carrie Wylie. Because of Carrie’s lengthy hospital stay at childbirth, the nurses called the baby “Pat” and the name stuck. Little Pat grew up in a loving family with few financial resources. From a young age, Pat and her seven siblings were heavily involved in activities at the Charlotte (Belmont) Corps.

Before entering the training college in 1956, Pat worked as a telephone operator. Upon arrival at the college, she became a member of the Faithful Session of cadets. was commissioned in 1957 and sent to her first appointment to Baltimore (Temple), followed by a corps post in Hagerstown, Maryland in 1959. Captain Wiley had a brief stint on the Georgia Divisional Headquarters as camp assistant before going to serve at the School for Officer’s Training as brigade officer.

In 1964, she began a three-year assignment to the Southern Territorial Headquarters, first to the territorial commander’s office and then to the office of the territorial president for women’s services.

By 1967, she became divisional youth counselor for the North and South Carolina Division until her resignation in 1972 to marry Tom Germany.

She had a passion for work among youth everywhere she was appointed. She regularly made her Sunday School round early so that she had time to wake up the children, dress them, feed them and take them to the corps. Often the parents were either drunk or asleep themselves, caring little for the welfare of their children. Many of these children came to know Pat as their “Angel in Blue.”

Pat was introduced to Tom Germany at the Atlanta Temple Corps by Major Howard Lynch where Tom served as corps sergeant-major. They fell in love and were married several years later. Pat and Tom Germany remained faithful soldiers of the Temple Corps for the rest of their lives. They both were especially interested in the young people of the community surrounding the corps, many of whom were from poor homes, torn families, and no stable home life. The Germanys became their surrogate parents; picking them up for church, dressing and feeding them, and helping with problems at home.

Pat faithfully taught the Sunday School class for four- and five-year-olds for nearly 40 years. She was Sunbeam leader for well over 20 years. Unknown to most, she made visits every Sunday afternoon to elderly shut-ins, especially retired officers.

Her service to others was not regulated to corps activities—she participated in a neighborhood garden club, which annually asked her to identify needy families for them to assist at Christmas for whom she personally coordinated the deliveries.

“Promoted...” continued from page 15

She handled all the detail coordination of the Southern Bible Conference for 35 years. In addition, she worked with Territorial Local Officers’ Training School, recognized with a territorial honor during her 25th year of SBC.

Pat was named Sunday School Teacher of the Year, Georgia Division, in 1987.

At the territory’s Sunday School Convention during the 2003 Commissioning Weekend, The Salvation Army’s highest honor was paid to this quiet Southern soldier. Pat Germany was admitted into the Order of the Founder by Commissioner Phil Needham during the Friday night keynote session.

“You’ve taught us, Pat, that being a Sunday School teacher is far more than teaching a class on Sunday morning,” Commissioner Needham said. “It is caring throughout the week. It is becoming a good shepherd to your students and their families. It is helping to release your students to a future they or their families never dreamed was possible. It is showing them God in countless ways. It is being a Sunday School teacher like Pat Germany!”

Pat Germany was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tom; her parents, and all of her brothers and sisters. She is survived by one daughter, Michelle Germany; three grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life was held at the Atlanta Temple Corps on Friday, March 17, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a committal service at Westview Cemetery.

PROMOTED TO GLORY

Major Barbara McWilliams

Major Barbara McWilliams was Promoted to Glory on March 9, 2023.

Barbara Arline

Irwin was born on July 8, 1940, in Irvington, New Jersey, to parents Thomas and Ruth Irwin. Barbara received her high school diploma on June 1, 1958.

In 1964, she married Joe McWilliams in Texas on February 6, 1964. Following God’s calling to become Salvation Army officers in 1980, they began with the rank of auxiliary-captain, until 1985, when they were commissioned as captains with the Guardians Of The Truth session of cadets. In 2000, they were promoted to the rank of major.

Major Barbara stated in her officership paperwork, “The Lord led us to The Salvation Army and officership. The Lord has kept our pledge always before us, and we know that our life will only be complete and fulfilled in His service.”

They began their active service in Huntsville, Alabama, as assistant corps officers while they prepared their plan to become missionaries. They served ten years overseas in Cape Town, South Africa as administrators of the “Beth Rogelim” Adult Rehabilitation Center for men. They also served as corps officers in Woodstock, South Africa, as well as at the retirement home for women in Stellenbosh, South Africa.

In 1990, they returned to the U.S. and were stationed as corps officers in Key West, Florida. By 2002, they were sent to be corps officers in Port Charlotte, Florida; followed by being posted to the Florida Divisional Headquarters for Special Services—retiring from active service on November 1, 2002, and making their retirement home in Brownwood, Texas.

Major Barbara McWilliams is preceded in death by her loving husband of 47 years, Major

Joe McWilliams in 2011. She is survived by her three children: Major Thomas (Stacie) McWilliams; Kurt McWilliams; and Madelyn (Donnie) Martinez; in addition to one grandchild.

Major Barbara was laid to rest next to her husband in Texas.

PROMOTED TO GLORY

Major Linda Hicks

Major Linda Hicks, 74, was Promoted to Glory on April 3, 2023, in Rutherford County, Tennessee. She was a native of Louisville, Kentucky.

Linda Carol Lanham was born on March 16, 1949, to parents Charles and Lillian Lanham, and was raised along with her eight siblings—four brothers and four sisters.

Major Linda served as a Salvation Army officer alongside her husband, Roy, for 27 years. Her life was a living testimony to all who knew and loved her. Her main desire was to show everyone how wide, long, high, and deep God’s love is for everyone. Appropriately, she was commissioned on October 1, 1997, as a member of the Messengers Of God’s Love Session.

Together, Majors Roy and Linda Hicks served their entire career in the Kentucky-Tennessee Division. They were assigned to the Nashville Magness Corps, first as assistant officers followed by a stint as corps officers. From there, they commanded corps in Madisonville, Ashland, Bowling Green, and Frankfort, Kentucky.

They retired from active service in 2015.

Major Linda Hicks is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Major Roy Hicks; two brothers, Charles Lanham and Kenneth Lanham; and two sisters, Debra Lanham and Patti Jo Thomasson.

She is survived by her two sons, Captain Brian (Crystal) Hicks, Robert (Tonya) Hicks, and one daughter, Joy (Dwight) Wildes as well as two brothers, Mike Lanham and Dennis Lanham; two sisters, Shirley Auter and Mary Sue Thompson; and 12 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

A memorial service was held on April 11, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at the Louisville Portland Corps.

SUMMER ASSIGNMENTS

On behalf of the Territorial Commander, Commissioner Kelly Igleheart, we are pleased to announce the Summer Assignments of the Cadets of the Messengers of Reconciliation session. Please pray for these Cadets as they prepare for what God has planned for them this summer.

Cadet Arkadia Bottenfield

Fredericksburg, VA Corps

Cadets Timothy & Michelle Cook

Louisville (South), KY Corps

Cadet Criselda DeLeon Clearwater, FL Corps

Cadet Susan Garland

Conway, SC Corps

Cadet Sadie Glick

St. Petersburg, FL Corps

Cadet Barcey Godwin Durham, NC Corps

Cadet Michael Gutierrez Lewisville, TX Corps (North TX Area Command)

Cadet Jason Houser Laurel, MS Corps

Cadet Richard Reynolds

Kerrville KROC, TX

Cadets Jacob & Bria Swaringam

Bowling Green, KY Corps

Cadet Justin Taylor

Jonesboro, GA Corps

Cadet Antione Terrell

Dalton, GA Corps

Gwinnett County Annual Luncheon

Scott Slade (left), local WSB radio personality, interviews Chad Gunderson (center) and Chris Juen, co-producers of the international megahit series, The Chosen. The producers were the special guests at the Gwinnett County Corps Annual Luncheon. With close 300 in attendance, the packed house heard the story of how The Chosen came to be and how early on it chose to associate with The Salvation Army by making the Texas Division Camp Hoblitzelle its primary filming location. In addition, through sponsorships, a public and a silent auction, $127,829 was raised for Army activities in Gwinnett County.