Southern Spirit JUL 2023 - Vol 39 Issue 7

HIGH COUNCIL ELECTS LYNDON BUCKINGHAM 22 ND GENERAL OF THE SALVATION ARMY

BY LT. COLONEL JENNIFER GROVES

The High Council chamber was a sacred place of prayer on Saturday 27 May 2023 as members gathered to elect the 22nd General of The Salvation Army. Throughout this week, prayer had been the underpinning of all that took place. The prayers of the worldwide Army and those of the 2023 High Council members were united and God’s presence has been keenly felt.

“LEANING INTO THIS SACRED MOMENT”

The president, Commissioner Brad Bailey, welcomed members to this sacred and solemn moment in which they have the privilege and high honor to partner with God to choose the man or woman who will lead The Salvation Army in the coming days. “Together we dedicate ourselves to deposit ourselves again into the hands of Him who is what we are not, with the complete assurance that He is here leaning into this sacred moment with us,” he said.

The chaplain, Commissioner Yusak Tampai, introduced his theme for today: “We are in this together.” Through the singing of the song “Kings of kings, majesty,” the presence of God could be felt in the chamber as members lifted in prayer the words of the chorus—“Your majesty, I can but bow; I lay my all before You now. In royal robes I don’t deserve, I live to serve Your majesty.” This was followed by members reading

prayers received from the USA, Kenya and India, amongst other places.

Interspersed with the singing of ‘Precious

Promise God Hath Given,’ Colonel Samuel Baah, Territorial Commander, Malawi Territory, shared a devotional. He focused on two verses of Scripture: “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on You” (2 Chronicles 20:12 NIV) and “Then Moses said to Him, ‘If Your presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here”’ (Exodus 33:15 NIV). The colonel encouraged the members to fix their eyes on God. “We are here to rely solely on the strength of God,” he said, “and to ask Him to take all the glory and honor as we go into this exercise (the voting process). We need God to stand by us.”

THE 22ND GENERAL OF THE SALVATION ARMY

A time of prayer followed before the president guided the Council into the election process, which was undertaken in silence as a solemn and sacred duty. This resulted in the election of Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham as the 22nd General of The Salvation Army.

Beautiful moments of prayer were shared with General-elect, Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham. Of special significance was the first blessing and prayer shared in the Māori language by New Zealanders in the chamber to honor the people of their homeland.

May God bless the General-elect! May God bless The Salvation Army!

Reflectors of Holiness Prove They Are “All In” During Commissioning Weekend

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

FRIDAY EVENING

An action packed and event filled Commissioning weekend kicked off at the Atlanta Temple Corps on Friday, June 2 that culminated in the commissioning and ordination of the Reflectors

of Holiness session of new lieutenants on Sunday, June 4. Launched by an exciting presentation of the vintage Salvation Army song, “Marching Along,” the number enlisted the forces of the Southern Territorial Band and Songsters, the Staff Arts Ministry and the combined sessions of “Commissioning...” continued on page 2

General Lyndon Buckingham

Reflectors of Holiness and Southern Staff Songsters unite for session song “For Your Mission”

Photos by Noah Dake and Laura Dake

cadets. From there the momentum continued to build, reaching a climax with the altar crowded with people responding to the multiple challenges they heard and experienced.

World Services Ingathering and International Focus

The annual World Services gathering resulted in a record setting total of $12,166,216, eliciting a heartfelt response from territorial commander, Commissioner Kelly Igleheart. “From our personal giving, to when we were corps officers, then divisional leaders and to territorial headquarters, we have watched money march in and out, like rivers flowing into a mighty ocean. We have been on the receiving end when we had no van to move our cadets (in the Southern Africa Territory) and the USA Southern Territory provided one. We have seen the countless babies left on the street who found a place of hope at the Ethembeni Children’s Home. Fully 85% of the projects for World Services around the world are funded by the USA territories. Every gift, every widow’s mite, quarter, dollar in the offering plate, makes a difference. Thank you is inadequate, but we thank you on behalf of those we will never see.”

Adding to the finances was the sharing of personnel: Major Minkee and Grace Kim, already departed for the Korea Territory and Majors David and Susie Erickson, soon headed to the Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar Territory later in June. Adding to this were three teams of Summer Service Corps members headed to Japan, Jamaica and Florida respectively.

Challenge from Dr. Bill and Reverend Diane Ury

Special guests for the evening were Dr. Bill and Reverend Diane Ury who serve as Ambassadors for Holiness for the USA National Headquarters.

Using the story in Luke 8 of Jesus raising a little girl from the dead, Reverend Diane Ury said, “Despair is pandemic. We must be an incarnation of hope because the enemy’s most consistent weapon is despair. It is rooted in the belief that we are all alone without friends so that we slip down into hopelessness.

“We must repent of the oozing narcotic of despair. Jesus expects us to live in this world in His kingdom of hope. Encourage one another. Be -

lieve nothing is impossible for God. Jesus wants to rule over anything that might bind us. Jesus said to Jairus, ‘Don’t be afraid. Have faith.’ People laughed and that is why Jesus only allowed the faithful in to see the little girl. In the face of mockers Jesus took the little girl’s hand and said, ‘My girl, I am strong. I am mighty. I rule. I am master.’ In a moment God can rescue and sanctify you.”

She was followed by Dr. Bill Ury who said, “I am challenged by what follows immediately after the story that Diane shared. In Luke 9 Jesus gathers the Twelve and challenges them to do what as He has done. Look at Jesus. Look at Him for holiness. They don’t know what they’re dealing with.

“Jesus kept pointing out to people how they were not like Him. I want you to be pardoned from your sins and from your heart sin. But the world says, ‘You can’t take that from me.’ We are too satisfied with touches when the Lord wants all of us. God is calling us into an ‘all in” salvation. How many holiness sermons do you need to hear? How many times do you have to see the Holiness cloth? If you want an ‘All In’ Savior you need to be all in. You’ve been justified, pardoned, but have you been filled in every nook and cranny in your complicated life?”

The Spirit moved mightily as the meeting moved to an unhurried close.

SATURDAY MORNING

Saturday morning was bookended by exciting evangelism approaches featuring two guests. Dr. Michael Beck, a United Methodist Church pastor from Wildwood, Florida shared how his congregation has found what he calls, “faith unbundled.” Noting the statistical reality that 40% of people say they would not enter a church under any circumstances, his congregation has sought to make church incarnational by going to them where they are. This means church is happening in such unlikely places as public libraries, Mexican restaurants, dog parks and even a tattoo parlor. Building around people’s passions, believers are invited to make the place of their hobbies, interests and passions, the locations of their church. While still engaging in the various activities, by sharing 3-5 minute Bible stories, discussions follow to discuss how these apply to everyday life.

The second session featured a celebration of faithful service, first with those officers who have reached milestones of 25, 30, 35, 40 and 45 years of service. Then, a rollcall of officers who have retired in the past year allowed the congregation to celebrate their decades of service concluded as they enter honored retirement.

https://www.everystudent.com The site answers the most common questions that not only of young people but any person might ask as they seek answers concerning the Christian faith. The effectiveness of this approach is proven through its astounding success of recording 2700 persons each day who accept Christ as Savior. Cards were made available for those present to share with others that has the website on one side and Salvation Army information on the other.

SUNDAY MORNING

The culmination of the weekend came on Sunday morning at the service for the Commissioning and Ordination of the Reflectors of Holiness session. Colonel Deborah Sedlar, chief secretary, opened the meeting followed by the processional of the Reflectors of Holiness accompanied by the Southern Territorial Staff Band.

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

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Then, Marilyn Adamson shared her journey from atheism to salvation. From her experience, she worked with others to provide a unique form of evangelism through an apologetics website:

Soon following was the presentation of the session by Major Anthony Juliana, principal and president of Evangeline Booth College. Speaking to the session, he said, “This is the last time I address you as cadets. I am reminded of what General Bramwell Booth said, ‘Officers must not only feel responsible for the command of a corps but feel their responsibility for every man, woman and child in their town or district.’ You are responsible to God.”

Then turning to Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart, he said, “I present the cadets of the Reflectors of Holiness Session. They arrived at the Evangeline Booth College wide-eyed and uncertain what being an officer entails. They are still wide-eyed and uncertain what being an officer means. But we can affirm their commitment to preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and meeting human need without discrimination. The training staff has come alongside and with their help, these have shown they have the Blood and Fire spirit, that they are prepared to sustain and advance the purpose of God’s Salvation Army in the USA Southern Territory. They have been praying

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Reflectors of Holiness

Dr. Bill Ury

Commissioner Kelly Igleheart

New Chief of the Staff and World Secretary for Women’s Ministries

General-elect Lyndon Buckingham has chosen and appointed Commissioner Edward Hill to be Chief of the Staff and Commissioner Shelley Hill to be World Secretary for Women’s Ministries effective from 3 August 2023.

Commissioned in June 1993, in the USA Western Territory, Edward and Shelley Hill began their shared ministry as officers in the beautiful island of Hawaii at Leeward. Two years later they were appointed to divisional headquarters as divisional youth leaders where they served until July 1995, when they were appointed to training college work.

Further corps leadership experience was theirs at Pasadena Tabernacle Corps from February 2002. In June 2008, Majors Hill were appointed to lead the Hawaii/Pacific Division, as Divisional Commander and Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries. They were subsequently appointed to THQ in June 2012, Major Edward Hill as Secretary for Programme and Major Shelley as Women’s Ministries Secretary.

In July 2016, their first experience of international service came to them as they were appointed to the Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar Territory as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries. Further international ser-

vice opportunities came in November 2018 with their appointments to the Canada and Bermuda Territory as Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries.

May 2021 saw the Hills, with promotion to the rank of commissioner, assuming responsibility as Zonal Leaders for the Americas and Caribbean Zone, based at International Headquarters in London. In these roles they have served in various capacities: Edward Hill is a SAITCo Director as well as a member of The General’s Council and International Appointments Board and Shelley Hill is a member of the International Finance Board, The General’s Council and International Appointments Board as well as taking the lead in the zonal department on all mission and community projects and Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Response.

Commissioner Edward Hill holds a Master of Christian Education and a Master of Divinity, and Commissioner Shelley Hill is a graduate of the Arrow Executive Leadership Course.

Interview with General-Elect Lyndon Buckingham

BY CAPTAIN JO MOIR

Major Moir: You’ve just been elected as our next General. Are you surprised? Are you shocked? Or are you determined?

General-elect Buckingham: There’s a mixture of all of those things. Nobody comes expecting but we all come with a mindset of making ourselves available to the will of God, ready to do what the Lord wants us to do. I didn’t come with any end game in mind, but I did come willing to participate in whichever way was appropriate. I’m feeling a little overwhelmed, but humbled, grateful for the support of the members of the High Council and their endorsement. We had the golden bowl in the chamber, a visual reminder of thousands of Salvationists who not only prayed leading up to the High Council week but have prayed us all the way through. If I was reflecting on a highlight of the council itself, it would be the spirit within the chamber, just a beautiful sense of the presence of God.

Although feeling overwhelmed, I also feel that we allowed the Lord to reveal what He wanted to happen, and we’ve participated in that and I take comfort from that. I’ve had a wonderful endorsement from the members of the High Council and I receive this as from the Lord. I’m grateful because Bronwyn is right there with me and we will share this ministry together and we’ll try and serve the Lord and serve The Salvation Army. And yes, actually, I’m a little bit excited about the opportunity.

Major Moir: We know you as a family man. Have you had time to connect with them? How do they feel about this news?

General-elect Buckingham: My family is 18,000 kilometers (11,000 miles) away from this venue, so they’re a long way away physically, but here we are in a little room at the side of the Chamber, FaceTiming with them, and they’re all right there. It was the middle of the night for them, but they’re all awake. And we’ve had an opportunity to share with both my son and daughter-in-law, and my daughter and son-in-law, and the grandkids. I thank God because they have been so positive. We’ve already been away from our homeland since 2013, so we’ve already gone a decade. They have been so supportive of us in fulfilling God’s calling on our lives. And so, to be able to see them on the screen has been absolutely wonderful. We were also able to connect with Bronwyn’s parents, lifelong Salvationists now

in their 80s. They were still up in the middle of the night ready to receive our call. They were also overwhelmed and naturally very proud.

Major Moir: Tell me about how you came to faith in Christ and how you were called to officership.

General-elect Buckingham: When I was about six or seven years of age, my parents took me to a Salvation Army congress. At the end of the meeting, somebody from the platform said, if you would like to meet Jesus, come down to the front. And so I went down to the front fully expecting to meet Jesus. I knelt at the Mercy Seat, and after a little while, there was an arm around my shoulder and I thought, this is Jesus. And when the person started talking, I said to myself, sounds like my Uncle Willis. So I took a look, and it was my Uncle Willis. I was disappointed because I’d gone with an expectation that I was going to meet Jesus. And what I got instead was my uncle. And so it created a little bit of doubt in a small boy’s mind.

From then on, I was a child that was going through the Army ranks doing the motions. I became a junior soldier. I even became a senior soldier. But I don’t think I would be able to testify at that point that I had any real experience of my own. That changed for me on the 12th of August 1979 as a 17-year-old at a youth councils. It was in that meeting that the realization of God’s love for me, in the person of Jesus Christ, absolutely came alive. I just burst with this understanding. It was more than mental. It was in my heart. It was emotional. I was full of repentance. I was full of sorrow. I was full of joy. It was like it is real. It is for me and so I made my way down to the Mercy Seat. And it’s a strange thing. I was crying and I was laughing. And I had all of these emotions going on all at the same time.

The love of God burst into my heart. I came into a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ and I believe an experience of the Holy Spirit. It was so impactful for me that I didn’t wait to be called to be an officer. Before that meeting was over, I signed a little Candidate’s covenant that you tore in half and kept for yourself and gave the other half to the candidate’s secretary. And I still have that piece of paper in my Bible.

Major Moir: Who influenced your life?

General-elect Buckingham: I had so many influences that it would be difficult for me to name, but I would say faithful Salvationists who took an interest, took time to listen, were honest as I was

growing up, local officers that put an arm around and said, “Come on, get back into line.” Very, very helpful in my upbringing. I would have to give testimony to, my officer parents, who loved us and trained us in the ways of the Lord. Huge influence. These are people who the Lord sends along to help us in our spiritual journey, in our discipleship maturing. They shape us and I’m grateful they’ve been many influences and I thank God for every one of them.

Major Moir: I asked some of the young people from my corps, what would they like to ask the General-elect. This is what they wanted to know. What would your school teachers say if they could see you now?

General-elect Buckingham: They would not believe it. If my father was still alive, he wouldn’t believe it either. I will have confounded them because I was not a good student.

Major Moir: What one thing would you want to share with your Salvation Army family today?

General-elect Buckingham: One thing I feel very confident in sharing is my love for what I call the three big ideas of the movement. Number one: we are a people that love to talk about Jesus. We want people to know that God loves them and that Jesus is the ultimate proof of that love. And so I love the fact that The Salvation Army has always been about recognizing our responsibility to share the good news of the gospel. God loves them, Jesus is the proof, and that welcome is available through Him. I would pray that Salvationists all around the world would find it very natural and easy to be able to speak to others about their personal relationship with Jesus Christ and the transformation that He has made in their lives. That’s a big idea of this movement.

We want people to know the good news that there is life and purpose and hope and eternity through faith in Jesus Christ. If we could get excited about that around the globe, think about the impact of that.

Another big idea of the movement is that we think that practical demonstrations of the values of the kingdom of God are as impactful as talking about them. And so the sleeves rolled up, the caring for the needy, the helping the vulnerable, the being the voice for the voiceless, advocating for justice, the going after things where people are being in some way tortured or separated or

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Commissioners Edward and Shelley Hill

Commencement Service Held for Reflectors of Holiness

BY BRAD ROWLAND

On Friday, June 2, hundreds gathered at the Atlanta Temple Corps for the first assembly of Commissioning Weekend, under the banner of “All In: Everyone… Everywhere—A Call to Evangelism & Discipleship Mark 16:15 ERV.” With a full slate of events to follow, the commencement service was held for the Reflectors of Holiness session of cadets.

Major Anthony Juliana, president and principal of Evangeline Booth College, opened the meeting by acknowledging and praising the work of the session and officers in their pursuit of higher education.

“We realize the work and the dedication that it has taken to earn those degrees,” said Major Juliana. “The extra hours reading, engaged in cohorts, writing posts and other assignments. Preparing sermons, personal reflections, and integrative papers. We recognize the sacrifice of parents, children, wives, husbands, other family and friends that had to be made during those months and years of work that were required.

“This morning, we will take time to celebrate the accomplishments of the Reflectors of Holiness. We will rejoice with them in the recognition of the Apostle Paul’s words to Timothy, when he wrote: ‘Study and do your best to present yourself to God, approved as a workman or woman, tested by trial, or perhaps more appropriately for cadets, tried by testing. Who have no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth.’”

After the Reflectors of Holiness entered via processional, Major Bradley Caldwell, assistant principal for continuing education, recognized the officer degrees earned over the last year. Following an introduction from Major Juliana, the commencement address was delivered by Dr. Kevin J. Brown, president of Asbury University, who spoke on the longevity of sanctification. He also asked attendees to consider “What endures? What perseveres? What is durable? What is robust to withstand the dynamism of tomorrow’s innovations, technology, and growth?”

Dr. Brown referred to a well-known quote from Gypsy Smith, a British evangelist, who noted, “There are five gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and the Christian, but most people never read the first four.” He encouraged the Reflectors of Holiness to “cultivate a sound, humble, well-furnished mind” in aiming for “a sanctified, holy life in Christian discipleship.”

“You’ve been given a name, Reflectors of Holiness, and when others see you, may they see

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rejected. We, as a movement go to those places. We roll up our sleeves and we don’t want to just talk about God’s love, we want to show you God’s love. This is a soup, soap, and salvation that has been our history. I would love it if Salvationists would get this idea that actually I can do that. I can knock on a neighbor’s door and say, is there any way I can help you? Is there any way I can serve you?

The third thing, we’re a holiness movement. We think there is some value in the world to being salt and being light. We value the indwelling Spirit that makes us clean and free and whole and joyful. When we are walking in the Spirit in such a way that it’s the love of God that’s bearing fruit in our lives, we underestimate the impact and the value of that in the world. I have no hesitation and say although vision statements aren’t worked out yet and priorities aren’t sorted, we could be that all around the world.

Saluting of Reflectors of Holiness session flag

the fifth Gospel,” Dr. Brown said. “May they see Good News. May they see hope. May they see a holy life. And may they see a holy God. For the fullest realization of your humanity, as someone made in the image of God, for the edification of the communities that you will come to serve and inhabit, and for the glorification of God.”

The soon-to-be lieutenants were presented with diplomas and degrees, with the session’s top awards distributed. Cadet Karim Shuaib was the recipient of the Principal’s Award, while Cadet Luke Swain earned the Commissioner’s Award, presented by the territorial leaders upon the recommendation of the EBC staff to the second-year cadet who exemplifies the high ideal of Salvationism, exerts a positive influence on the EBC campus, demonstrates effective leadership, commits to the Salvationist mission, manifests maturity and self-discipline, works well with people, and operates in good academic standing.

Cadet Swain also served as the session speaker for the commencement, and, in his address, he delivered a poignant reminder of the calling bestowed on the Reflectors of Holiness and all gathered for the weekend.

“My friends, God is calling us. He’s calling us,” said Cadet Swain. “I challenge you today. I challenge you. As part of your accountability, as part of your commencement, at the start, at the outset, at the dawn of every day, of every endeavor, of every moment, of every conversation, look Christ in the face, who’s mercy you profess to obey. And tell Him whether you’ll join heart and soul, body and circumstance, in this march and this war, to publish a hope to those who we come into contact with. That’s my challenge for everyone in this room.”

Major Moir: What most excites you about the role of General?

General-elect Buckingham: It’s the privilege of being able to encourage and inspire and facilitate the Salvation Army mission around the world. My own love for the Lord has to be used to communicate to Salvationists. I am very conscious that I’m being afforded a wonderful and privileged opportunity to speak into the lives of Salvationists around the world, about our mission and our purpose. And that’s a huge privilege.

Major Moir: What can we be praying for you in these days?

General-elect Buckingham: When we were at the event last Saturday for General Brian we were invited to fill out little cards. I wrote on one, grace, peace, wisdom, and courage. If I was asking The Salvation Army world to be in prayer for myself and for Commissioner Bronwyn, those would be the things. It’s probably not inappropriate for me to say if you could spare a prayer for our family, that would be wonderful.

My Testimony: From Gambling to God

BY AARON SIMPSON

I had loving parents growing up. Mom taught me about God and how to pray at a young age. Dad always had time to play different sports with us and saw all our games even after long hours of work although he never had time for God. We would say, “If Dad’s not going why do we have to go?” Then many times we wouldn’t go. After years of trying to get us to go as a family, Mom stopped trying.

I was in and out of different neighborhood churches. I knew about God at an early age, but never had a personal relationship with Him. I thought about it a lot as a teenager. When I graduated high school and was away from family, I read my Bible at times, but stopped because I was living for the world.

I had a serious gambling problem for about 35 years. My grandfather taught me how to play poker at the age of five. I was instantly hooked. At first it was just for pennies, but for a five-yearold a pocket full of pennies seemed like lots of money. As I became older, we played for more money. I made bets on ball games with anyone who would. Dad told me not to bet, but I would anyways.

I could not wait to turn 21 so I could gamble in casinos. That’s when the addiction became really bad. I didn’t drink or do drugs, so I didn’t think I was doing anything wrong or hurting anyone. It sure hurt my wallet though. I was gambling anyway possible, making huge bets on sports, lottery tickets, and going to casinos. Even though I lost a lot of money I would tell myself that I could win it back next time. But that would not happen. The debt just piled up.

I lived in California and took many, many bus trips to Nevada: Las Vegas, Reno, Laughlin. I was so addicted I rode my bicycle to Table Mountain, a casino 28 miles from home, in the middle of summer in over 100-degree weather.

I kept telling myself throughout all that I was doing, I needed to get baptized so I could be saved. I thought that’s all I needed to do. Being baptized did not change my behavior or my way of living. I was still living for the world.

When I traveled to Nevada, I would not open the drawers in the hotel rooms because I knew there was a Bible and I did not want to feel convicted. Throughout this, I knew I needed to get back into church. At the same time I thought I was too messed up for God to love me. I kept asking myself, “What if I died tomorrow without having a relationship with Jesus?” My mother kept telling me I needed to get back into church, but I kept putting it off.

Since I was not doing anything about it, God brought Heather into my life. I was living in a five-bedroom house for years where the owner rented the rooms. One day Heather knocked at the door interested in renting one of the rooms. She moved into the house. We had conversations, and she told me she went to church with The Salvation Army. My first response was, “The Salvation Army has a church?” Every Sunday, she invited me to church, but I always had an excuse not to go and would say, “Maybe another time.”

During different conversations we had, she mentioned if she ever got married her husband

“All In” Block Party Impacts Atlanta Community

BY BRAD ROWLAND

Each year, the foundation of the USA Southern Territory’s Commissioning gathering centers on a theme. In 2023, that focus was evangelism and discipleship, with the official branding of “All In: Everyone… Everywhere” and a theme verse of Mark 16:15: He said to them, “Go everywhere in the world. Tell the Good News to everyone.” On Saturday, June 3 on The Salvation Army’s campus spanning Territorial Headquarters and the Atlanta Temple Corps, the first-ever “Block Party” was held under that banner, with approximately 1,600 people gathered.

“We looked to have everything that goes into the Commissioning weekend to focus on the theme of evangelism and discipleship,” said Roberta Simmons-Smith, territorial director of special events. “When viewing it through that lens, we thought the Block Party was a great way to evangelize and to get outside of our walls. It effectively becomes a giant open-air meeting, and everything needed to go back to evangelism and discipleship.”

The event spanned four hours in the late afternoon and evening, with five major components involved in an extensive planning process. First, visitors were greeted by a registration process, gathering information and ensuring that everyone in attendance felt welcome.

“We wanted everyone who came to have a touch point, especially if they didn’t make it to the vendor zone,” Simmons-Smith said. “We wanted to ensure that everyone, even if they were there for five minutes, heard the message of Jesus. That led to everyone coming through registration getting a swag bag that featured a card, also translated into Spanish, and it told them who we are as The Salvation Army, who Jesus is, and how to get connected.”

Then, within the party setup were four distinct zones: a children’s zone, vendor zone, prayer Photos by G-Lab

Group

patio, and the main stage zone, which also included food and drink distribution as well as performances from the Southern Staff Band, Southern Staff Songsters, transMission, and Territorial Arts Ministry (TAM).

Simmons-Smith describes the children’s zone as something of a “carrot” when promoting the event, and the area included bounce houses and various activities designed for a good time for young people. The vendor zone featured a tent for each corps and Boys & Girls Club in the Metro Atlanta Area Command, as well as a coffee truck from Inman Coffee and booths from Trade South, Camp South, A Better Sign, and the Jack McDowell School for Leadership Development. Majors Cameron and Paula Henderson managed the prayer patio, with the opportunity for ministry and prayer for anyone in attendance.

The layout was designed for separate zones, but also for the open-air ability for sounds and images to permeate from place to place.

“I was standing in the kid zone at one point, and you could hear the songsters and transMission perfectly,” Simmons-Smith said. “You could hear every word and beautiful harmony, even

“Testimony...” continued from page 4

would have to be a Christian. After knowing each other for over two years we started dating. Then the thought really hit me. If I wanted to keep dating her, I would have to start going back to church. No more excuses.

In 2006, I went to a Salvation Army for the first time. It did not take long to start going every Sunday and eventually every Wednesday as well. God used Heather to get me back in church. I never stop thanking Him. Who knows where or what I would be today if it wasn’t for God bringing Heather into my life?

I started going to church again, but I still had

my gambling addiction. One day I told Heather, “I don’t think I could become a soldier because I couldn’t ever give up gambling.” Her response to that, “What if God convicts you?” That’s all she said. I replied, “If that happens, we will deal with that then.” In the meantime, I still gambled.

About two months before our wedding God spoke to me in a dream. At first, I was scared about the dream. After talking with our corps officers, we decided that this was God convicting me. Since that dream 15 years ago I have been gambling free without any rehab, thanks to God and Heather.

I now have a personal relationship with Jesus, am a soldier in The Salvation Army, and moved

from a long way off. The ministry really traveled through the whole footprint of the party, and I’m sure that the families there had the same experience. That really seemed to have an impact.”

At 7:00 pm local time, the vendor and children’s zones ceased operation, with the focus shifting entirely to the main stage and a “Jesus Theater” presentation from TAM, written and directed by Amber Hood. This presentation, titled “Bounce,” was powerful and engaging, with well over 1,000 people seated and observing what transpired. Captain Juan Reyes, corps officer in Marietta, Georgia, also led an altar call, and seekers emerged,

“I was sitting towards the front of the audience during the Jesus Theater presentation,” said Emma Edelman, territorial child and adult safety coordinator and event management assistant for Commissioning weekend. “I got up to move to the back during the altar call, ready to help direct people back to the various zones when they reopened. That’s when I was able to see just how many people were experiencing God’s message of salvation. I was taken aback by the hundreds who had gathered and felt a true sense of God’s presence and purpose.”

Following the presentation of “Bounce,” the zones reopened and the gathering continued until shortly after 9:00 pm, when a fireworks display was launched to close the party. While the full-scale impact of the event will never be known to those who organized it, the spirit of outreach, evangelism, and discipleship was clear, with individuals and families coming into contact with The Salvation Army and, more importantly, the Lord through this ministry.

“I believe we were successful, due to the moving of the Spirit, to have that many people hearing the gospel in that moment around seven o’clock,” said Simmons-Smith. “It was all about that moment. We were able to get everyone there to receive in that way. That really validated all the planning and preparation, and we hope that people left our grounds having encountered Jesus Christ.”

across the country to work for The Salvation Army. I have a whole different outlook on money. Instead of throwing money away and being greedy for more, I am content with what I have. I tithe faithfully. For years, at our corps in California I was Stewardship Secretary, in charge of the offering. Now I speak about tithes and offerings at the Atlanta International Corps. I now have the love for God instead of money and pray that my dad and all my family will have love for Him as well.

Don’t give up on God because He never gives up on you! With God’s help, you can get through any addiction problem you may be facing in your life. Put God first in your life and see what He can do for you. Nothing is impossible with God!

CANDIDATES

The Call of Paul: Crossing Cultures

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

There were few Jewish boys who could rival Saul of Tarsus for pure Jewishness: “circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless (Ephesians 3:5,6). He was convinced not only that the Jews were God’s chosen people but they were superior in every way to any people with whom they happened to share the planet.

But after the Lord got hold of him, he was reborn, realigned, redirected to places and paths he could never have imagined. He found out that, of all people, this Hebrew of the Hebrews, this boy that any Jewish mother would be proud to claim was not to have a ministry to his fellow Jews but to with the very people he previously despised. The joy of that service was filling his life when God spoke again.

Having evangelized throughout the area that is now modern Turkey and Palestine, when Paul tried to continue as he had done, he was surprised to find his way blocked. The Lord clearly revealed that he was to go to another people. “During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us.’ After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them” (Acts 16:9,10).

What happened to Paul has been repeated countless times. Many, having accepted the call to fulltime vocational service, then find that they have a further clarification, a new challenge to leave their home culture and people and serve in places that are sometimes faraway in distance and in every other way.

Often when such a call comes, there are a host of questions. Are there not unsaved people at home that need my witness? What of leaving family behind? Will I be able to learn the language and customs? What if the people there don’t receive me? What if I get sick? But like any great work of God, there are always reasons why something might fail and only one good reason why we must obey—because that is what God has revealed.

Not that going will be easy. This is not an extended overseas tourist visit where we send a few postcards home and describe the scenery. It is an investment that requires an emptying of expectations, an abandonment of privilege. As Paul found out, with whatever regard he was held in the Jew -

ish community, it had no bearing among the new people that he served. Our names might be gold in our hometown, but that press doesn’t carry over into the new country.

There are a thousand and one challenges to the one serving outside their home country and culture. Every culture has its own subtleties that seem so natural that it is surprising that people don’t do the same things everywhere. There are few occasions where this is more evident than in rituals such as funerals and marriages. Humility dictates that if we are to serve, we are to honor whatever is not contrary to the Christian faith and silence ourselves in doing so. How we do it back home really doesn’t matter.

It comes in the many new aromas, sounds and tastes. I recall meeting a retired missionary who gave decades of service in one of the most challenging countries in the world. Speaking of the food, she quoted a little ditty:

Where He leads me I will follow;

What He feeds me I will swallow.

Paul learned and modeled the servant approach to working with new people groups. Witness how he picked up tentmaking to supply his own expenses in one place. In another, after giving lifesaving counsel to his fellow shipwreck victims, he set himself about the humble task of gathering wood to warm everyone (Acts 28:3).

The person called by God to serve another people cannot go as the colonialist who is there to favor people with his wisdom, knowledge and superior ways. It is to listen diligently so as to understand, catapult preconceptions, to do what needs to be done so that we don’t get in the way of the message for the people God has sent us to serve.

Is God calling you to leave home to serve another people? How can you remain if He has?

A Sunday School Teacher and a Bottle of Coca Cola

BY MAJOR FRANK DURACHER

If there are any Sunday School teachers out there who sometimes wonder if all their efforts to teach unruly kids might be in vain, Richard Li of the Richmond Citadel Corps has a message for you. He expresses this same sentiment to the faithful teacher of his childhood and teen years, Carolyn Gregory.

“My grandmother brought me and my four brother and sisters to The Salvation Army, which is right across the street from where we live,” Richard says of his earliest recollection of coming to the corps when he was only three.

About the time he turned ten, Richard was in the Sunday School class taught by “Miss Carolyn.”

“She was teaching us about different gods— Roman gods, Greek gods, Egyptian gods,” Richard recalls, “and, of course, the one true God of Israel, Jehovah.”

Carolyn skillfully presented how many cultures of the world often had a god for everything: the sun, war, love, and so forth.

“But then she asked me, and it seemed directly, ‘So which god do you believe in?’”

He says his answer to her was plain and logical, “Well, based on what you’ve been teaching us all this time, I choose Jesus!”

Richard calls his response that Sunday morning long ago to be his “Choose Jesus Moment.”

“I had been going to camp every summer by then and made some professions of wanted to accept Christ into my heart—but that question put to me by Miss Carolyn was seminal for me. That was the moment when I realized that He is the only way to God!”

Also by this time, Richard was becoming immersed in music.

“We grew up very much into brass band and that locked me in,” he says. “There’s a community behind Salvation Army musicians and our music.”

Starting out on cornet, he began learning to play through participation in junior band, camp band, and finally the corps brass group on duty every Sunday. He’s worked at summer camp every year since the tenth grade, and this summer will fill in as a volunteer at the Potomac Division’s Camp Rappahannock (formerly Camp Happyland).

“Later in the corps band, we had a need to fill the Eb Bass part, and so I took that up. All brass horns between cornet and bass are essentially the same, but I like Eb best.”

He also adds that he “dabbles in trombone,”

“Commissioning...” continued from page 2

for those to whom they are being sent; they have sought the face of God; they affirm that they are men and women of God’s Word and are ready to represent the Savior in their communities. They are ‘all in.’”

This was followed by the recitation of the Officer’s Covenant by Cadets Douglas and Sharon Ingold and the Declaration of Faith by the entire session.

In what was a time of deep consecration and dedication, Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart alternated in pronouncing a blessing on each cadet and giving each one a Scripture promise to carry with them. The time was concluded with the cadet being promoted to the rank of lieutenant.

Following these solemn moments, the meeting turned into a celebration as representative session flags from the past were paraded in to cheers and shouts of celebration. The session reentered, now wearing their lieutenants’ uniforms. Lt. Mandy Doggett, representing her session, said, “What do we need to know? We look to the wisest of men, Jesus Himself. We remember that He was heavily immersed in His mission. He was constantly surrounded by people with legitimate needs expect-

especially while standing at a Christmas kettle post because, “playing a trombone there looks very cool! ”

Many corps officers who’ve come through Richmond Citadel recognized in Richard a potential candidate for Salvation Army officership. But for this young adult, it was during the time of Captain Timothy Jo that “sealed the deal for me—and it happened quite unexpectedly.”

Up to that time, Richard admits he was a “hard sell” to finally admit he was called. But three confirmations eventually got him off the fence.

“I first told the Lord that if He got me through college debt-free, I’d go,” Richard says with a chuckle. He finished a Bachelor of Science Degree in Applied Mathematics at Virginia Commonwealth University. Of course, he was debtfree.

“Then there were all those ‘signs’ at every youth councils, but I didn’t want to make such a lifelong commitment on just a feeling.”

However, the third confirmation came silent-

ing to receive something from Him. Yet He took time to meet His Father in a solitary place, to have that intimate connection with Him. We need to have that balance between meeting with God in private and being ready to serve people. We cannot afford to neglect time being with God while at the same time proclaiming the good news.”

Commissioner Donna Igleheart and Territorial Sergeant-Major Jeremy Rowland then gave a special blessing on the session.

The Territorial Commander Speaks

Commissioner Kelly Igleheart shared from his heart as God led. “It is amazing to see the hand of God on the people of God. Just like that, they’re lieutenants. I remember meeting the Army as a first-generation Salvationist. I knew nothing about The Salvation Army except they were strange and weird. That’s still true, but I cast my lot with them. What drew me first was their love for Jesus and the joy of the Salvationists.

“This is a high and holy day. It’s as good as it gets. The closest word in Scripture we can come to the idea of ‘reflectors’ is ‘imitator’ as we find in Ephesians 5:1, ‘Be imitators of God as dear children.’ We are a holiness movement while still giving attention to evangelism. If we don’t live holy

ly and surprisingly: “I was on a kettle stand that Captain Jo had placed me, and it was an unusually warn December day. Someone brought me a cold bottle of Coca-Cola, and when I noticed what was written on the bottle, I was floored!”

That was when the Coca-Cola Company was in the midst of a marketing promotion that placed one-word messages on their cans and bottles (love, nursing, friendship, etc.).

“The word on my bottle was: CAPTAIN,” he marvels.

“That was it. I thought, Okay, Lord, You finally got through to me! ”

Richard Li plans to enter the Evangeline Booth College in Atlanta in 2024 as a member of the Keepers of the Covenant session of cadets. He kept the bottle as a reminder and a possible family heirloom in the future.

All this harkens back to the faithful teaching and Christian example of Miss Carolyn. She shows tough love for all her kids, and watches them grow from childhood through teen phases, and even still in young adult years, as with Richard. She led them in Sunday School, Corps Cadets, and presently is the Corps Sergeant-Major (CSM).

Richard has a message he wants CSM Gregory to read for herself in this article: “I want to thank you for all you have done to win me to Christ and to help bring me to the ultimate conviction that God has a definite plan for me as an officer. If you’ve ever doubted whether you’re making a difference in someone’s life— don’t! ”

Richard says that Carolyn may not reach the vast numbers of people in the world like, say, Billy Graham.

“But you reached me. I wouldn’t be here without you!”

lives, it trips up evangelism. Reflecting holiness is scorched in the tenets of our beliefs. It is in our DNA.

“The world is interested in what you say but more so in what you do. We are always imitating, always reflecting. What do people see in us? They need to see a reflection of Jesus in our hearts, to feel and touch Him. The Church’s chief task is to make Christianity visible, intelligible and desirable.

“Reflecting means denying ourselves. The world says, ‘Get what you want.’ But Jesus made Himself of no reputation. It is not about me—it’s about Him. That is why if we are not causing a disruption, we better check ourselves. The world needs to see something different. If I blend in, I will not be seen.”

As the territorial commander closed his message there was an easy transition to a time of decision as people streamed to the front. In time, the meeting came to a triumphant close with a grand arrangement of the Army standard, “Happy Song.”

We are marching on with shield and banner bright, We will work for God and battle for the right, We will praise His name, rejoicing in His might, And we’ll work till Jesus calls.

Richard Li was finally convinced of his call to officership through a simple message on a bottle of Coca-Cola.

Paying it forward, Richard Li helps Nia White learn to play a cornet.

The Reality of Holy Living

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

From the moment someone accepts Christ as Savior, there is a haunting call to holiness that whispers deep in the heart. Quite often with the thrill of a fresh life in Christ, the new believer is convinced that he will be able to plow through temptation, easily casting aside every sin that marked his previous life. But then reality sets in. While many sins no longer bother him, there are others that hang on like spiritual leeches. Instead of marching forward unimpeded to victory, the believer finds the ride is more akin to a roller coaster than a super-highway. Still, holiness beckons the believer to a better way of living.

It may be that God has made it so in order that the believer learns the strength to live victoriously in the world is not dependent upon his resolutions but instead on his full abandonment to the will and way of God. So partially summoned by hope and partially driven by the frustration of failure, the believer surrenders self-effort and humbly asks God to make him holy. The Holy Spirit moves wondrously and where there was brokenness, He makes whole; where there was impotence, He fills the sails as He powers us across life’s seas.

Holiness, like salvation, is a gift given to the seeker. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled” (Matthew 5:6). If you are weary of the up and down uncertainty that marks your Christian life, hear the promise: if you seek, you will be filled. Seek the Lord humbly. Abandon your own reconstruction. Be filled with the Spirit.

The Salvation Army of Georgia Celebrates Bainbridge Facility Expansion

BY DONALD FELICE

A heartwarming dedication ceremony marked the expansion and renovation of The Salvation Army Service Center in Bainbridge, Georgia. The event was attended by a supportive crowd from the community, Bainbridge Mayor Edward Reynolds, Karen Tobin (Bainbridge Chamber of Commerce President), Georgia divisional commander, Major Algerome Newsome, acting general secretary, Major James Allison, Jim Morrow, divisional service extension director, and Merreann McDonald, the Bainbridge Service Center director.

The ceremony began with the Bainbridge High School Band playing the “Star-Spangled Banner” while the Bainbridge High School Junior Air Force ROTC color guard presented the American flag.

Major Newsome spoke on the dedication and unity it took to accomplish the renovation and expansion, referencing Ecclesiastes 4:9: “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.” Major Newsome said, “I believe that with the strength of The Salvation Army, and this community, and our Lord Jesus Christ, ‘a threefold cord’, there is not anything that we can’t

accomplish together in this community.”

The building renovation and expansion included remodeling and expansion of office space, 1,700 square feet of vitally needed warehouse and to house the emergency disaster canteen, a box truck, food pantry, and increased storage for the Family Store.

According to Jim Morrow, service center extension director, the desire for the expansion and renovation was prompted by the increased needs of the community after Hurricane Michael and COVID-19. He added, “It is a blessing to see a community come together behind the shield of The Salvation Army and work alongside each other to make this community a better place for everybody that lives here.”

Mayor Reynolds praised The Salvation Army for its valuable services and unwavering commitment to serve those in need for the past 30 years. Mayor Reynolds stated, “We can all look back to floods, tornadoes, and major, major events that affect our community, but to me, the most important thing is the thing they do every day, and they serve those individuals that are lost in our community as a beacon of hope.”

BY DR. STEVE KELLNER

One of the issues our military has had to face historically is what to do with so-called “ghost regiments.” These are combat units that, on paper at least, are of a certain size and fighting strength, but in reality are so reduced by casualties that they can’t fulfill their mission.

Desperate to keep up appearances and morale, political leaders and generals have often continued to move these units around like chess pieces on their war maps, ordering them to attack or defend a position even when everyone in the room knew they didn’t have the strength to do the job.

Sometimes the solution is to combine two or more ghost regiments and form a full-strength regiment. But this is easier said than done, because every regiment has its own history, traditions, and operational methods, and the emotional bonds formed by fighting together. A regiment made up of pieces of other regiments won’t be very cohesive and will fight less effectively, at least for a time.

The other, more extreme solution is to deactivate the regiment, do away with it all together, and disperse its remaining members to other regiments. But this means the loss of the history and examples of some of the most storied units. And the members of the disbanded regiment often feel like the military equivalent of orphans.

We in The Salvation Army are facing a similar situation today. Our corps congregations and programs are not what they once were numerically. Many are too far understrength to fight effectively. What should we do about this?

In some cases we might consider combining two struggling corps that are near each other, even though, as in the military, this is easier said than done when the corps involved have long histories of ministry and service to their communities. Or we might combine corps programs, as we have already done in many corps by folding Girl Guards, Sunbeams, and SAAC into Club 316’s, or encourage two corps to combine their youth and music evening programs into a single program at one corps to raise its quality level.

In other cases we may have to end certain corps programs with long and storied histories, or even close some corps altogether. This is an emotionally wrenching process to say the least, and it would no doubt leave some corps members feeling like orphans. But doing nothing is the equivalent of moving around imaginary regiments on a war map. We might preserve the appearance of all being well, but we all know that the program or corps doesn’t have the firepower to fight the battle, much less win.

Happily, we don’t have to worry about losing the war because we know the battle is the Lord’s and is in fact already won. But He has left it to us to prayerfully make the difficult decisions about our own ghost regiments.

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

The Salvation Army of Clarksville, Tennessee Serves Soldiers at Fort Campbell on National Donut Day

BY ERIC SHORT

In a heartwarming display of support and appreciation for the brave men and women serving in the military, The Salvation Army of Clarksville, Tennessee teamed up with the USO at Fort Campbell to celebrate National Donut Day on Friday, June 2. Soldiers from the renowned 101st Airborne Division were treated to 30 dozen delicious donuts and steaming cups of coffee following their morning session of physical training.

National Donut Day, which falls annually on the first Friday of June, has a rich history intertwined with The Salvation Army. The tradition began during World War I when The Salvation Army ‘Donut Lassies’ would provide freshly made donuts to American soldiers stationed on the front lines in France. These treats served as a symbol of hope and comfort, bringing a taste of home to the troops in challenging times.

Major Kati Chase, corps officer in Clarksville, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to carry on the legacy of the Donut Lassies and serve the soldiers at Fort Campbell.

“It is an honor for us to be able to extend our appreciation and support to the men and women who selflessly serve our country,” said Major Chase. “The Salvation Army has a long-standing history of assisting those in need. Today, we’re privileged to show our gratitude by serving donuts and coffee to these courageous soldiers.”

The collaboration between The Salvation Army and the USO at Fort Campbell further strengthens the bond between these two organizations and the military community. Eva Nicol,

Programs Manager at the USO Fort Campbell, spoke about the significance of partnering with The Salvation Army on National Donut Day.

“Partnering with The Salvation Army to celebrate National Donut Day is a great way to spread morale to the troops,” Nicol said. “The USO and The Salvation Army’s history dates back to the USO’s inception in 1941, when the two organizations spread cheer to the troops on the front lines. To be able to continue that mission together today brought the historical partnership full circle.”

The Salvation Army has a long history of providing support and assistance to the United States military. During both World Wars, they played a crucial role in offering physical, emotional, and spiritual aid to service members. Today,

Metro Atlanta’s Women’s Auxiliary Kettle Krush 5K Breaks Records

BY ANGELA CLAWSON

With the completion of The Salvation Army of Metro Atlanta’s Women’s Auxiliary 9th annual Kettle Krush 5K run/walk in May, the organization’s net proceeds over the six consecutive years it has conducted the event now exceeds $500,000.

The event’s purpose is to help The Salvation Army “krush” poverty, homelessness, and human trafficking while supporting youth enrichment and veterans in metro Atlanta. Funds raised support Salvation Army programs, services, and initiatives in the metro area.

“We strive annually to increase our participation and dollars raised as well as awareness of all The Salvation Army does to support our community in metro Atlanta,” said Dawn Menear, SAWA’s race chair. “This year we succeeded in reaching all our goals with our highest number of participants ever (628 paid registrants) and record number of teams (13) with 10 or more participants as well as raising a record amount in net proceeds. We pride ourselves also on exposing others to The Salvation Army and all that it does in our metro Atlanta area to serve those in need.”

“Since taking over this event six years ago from the Metro Atlanta Area Command (MAAC), SAWA has been able to provide The Army with financial support for many initiatives, programs, and services, including replacing bunk beds at The Salvation Army’s Red Shield Shelter to help homeless veterans, providing funding to fight hunger through the Annual Can-a-thon, and helping the Boys and Girls Clubs with youth enrichment through summer day camp,” said Cindy Theiler, who chaired the first race for SAWA.

“When Covid hit, we knew The Salvation Army needed funds more than ever, so we did a Race in Place live broadcast on Facebook for two years to continue our annual fundraising. The community really supported our efforts those years and continues to do so.”

The Salvation Army continues to serve military families and veterans through programs such as emergency financial assistance, transitional housing, food, and job training.

On this National Donut Day, the soldiers at Fort Campbell had the opportunity to indulge in a well-deserved treat and experience the gratitude of the local community. Through the generosity and partnership of organizations like The Salvation Army and the USO, the unwavering commitment of our military personnel is acknowledged and celebrated. The Salvation Army’s dedication to serving our military extends beyond this special day, ensuring that those who have served our country receive the support and assistance they deserve.

“The Metro Atlanta Area Command is so grateful to the women’s auxiliary for coordinating this great event that each year helps provide critical financial support to many of our programs and services,” said Major Stacie McWilliams, co-commander of The Salvation Army’s MAAC and the auxiliary’s liaison with the Army. “A huge thank you to Dawn Menear for leading this event, her committee, and all the SAWA members and others who volunteered, financially supported, or assisted with this event in some capacity. These women who lead this effort are all amazing!”

Mt. Bethel Church and the Home Depot Foundation were the event’s title sponsors again this year for the event that was held at the Marietta Square in Marietta, Georgia on May 20.

NEWS BRIEFS APPOINTMENTS

• In Memphis, Tennessee, The Salvation Army hosted its third annual Kettle365 Telethon during National Salvation Army Week. The telethon aims to raise funds to support the social services programs at The Purdue Center of Hope and address the consequences of intergenerational poverty. The 2023 edition raised more than $28,000, with donors led to give at four levels, ranging from a night of care to a month of care for a family in need.

• The Salvation Army of Lubbock, Texas hosted a “Build a Box” event on Thursday, May 18. With the help of a large food donation emanating from a recent U.S. Postal Service food drive, The Salvation Army welcomed individuals and families to its facility to pick out their own food items, including canned food, cereal, pasta, produce, and more.

• A dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony was recently held at The Salvation Army’s Center of Hope in Pascagoula, Mississippi. This facility underwent an extensive renovation with the help of a substantial donation from Ingalls Shipbuilding Corporation. “Today is about so much more than giving a facility a new look, or making it more functional or efficient,” said Major Mark Harwell, divisional commander. “Today is about hope.” The center is focused heavily on workforce preparation and training resources, with a grant from the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality helping to make the Workforce Development program possible.

• H-E-B Bakery came alongside The Salvation Army for National Donut Day across the Texas Division. The company donated 420 dozen donuts to be distributed across the state, and H-E-B also donated 2 percent of all sales during the week to support Salvation Army services in Texas communities. In three of the company’s locations in San Antonio, Waco, and Austin, H-E-B also held in-store promotions and demonstrations, with H-E-B employees provided with Salvation Army shirts as part of the event.

• On May 18, The Salvation Army of Greensboro, North Carolina held a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house for a new location to serve the residents of Chatham County. Cindy Poindexter, president of the Chatham Chamber of Commerce, and Siler City Mayor Chip Price III attended the event. The venue allows for expanded service to the community, including the expansion of The Salvation Army’s emergency assistance program. “We are thrilled with the new location and look forward to many more years helping the citizens of Chatham County” said Captain Chris Raymer, corps officer. “During the last few years, especially with the pandemic, many individuals continued to reach out for immediate needs, and our desire has always been to meet those needs without discrimination. We are grateful to continue serving with this new location.”

Spirit of the South

100 Years Ago

Miss Johanna Bouterse, daughter of Captain Wesley Bouterse, had an exciting moment at her home in Jacksonville, Florida. In the middle of the night she went to the window of her third floor window, removed the screen, climbed out and suspended herself from the ledge with her hands, thirty feet above the concrete sidewalk. A woman spotted her and screamed, waking Johanna up. Members of the household woke up and rescued her. Orlando Sentinel, Orlando, FL (July 26, 1923)

75 Years Ago

The Witness Crusaders spent Thursday in Danville, Kentucky after arriving from Louisville to hold a series of meetings in the open-air and at several institutions. A “Youth for Christ” Rally will conclude their time at The Salvation Army headquarters. Part of the group are Adjutant Luther and Mrs. Smith, June Lann, Imogene West, Magdalene Arrowood, Jeanette Lane,

“Hood...” continued from page 12

themselves.

Kenneth entered the training college in San Francisco in 1954 as a member of the Soul Winners session of cadets. He was commissioned in 1955, with his first appointment being as assistant corps officer for Spokane Citadel, Washington.

Lieutenant Kenneth Hood fell in love with Lieutenant Barbara Ann Johnson and were married in 1957. Together they served as corps officers in Anacortes, Washington. Their final corps appointment came in 1959 to Bremerton, Washington—coincidentally the city of his birth.

Ola Mae Covey, and Louise Lauderdale. Advocate-Messenger, Danville, KY (July 7, 1948)

50 Years Ago

A youth missing from Charlotte missing since July 16 has been found by Major Lewis Stilley in Greensboro. The 17 year old scholar had run away from home upon discovering he had Wilson’s Disease, a rare condition that results in a buildup of copper in the vital organs. Major Stilley was able to persuade him to stick around by the promise of a job painting at The Salvation Army building. The Daily Times-News, Burlington, NC. (July 25, 1973)

25 Years Ago

Commissioner John Busby, territorial commander, was among the dignitaries on hand to dedicate the Colonel B. Gordon Swyers Research Room at the Southern Historical Center, located at the College for Officer Training. Special guest, Mrs. Colonel B. Gordon Swyers was also in attendance. The Southern Spirit (July 13, 1998)

The remainder of their career was served in divisional, territorial, and national staff appointments. With the rank of colonel, he was named national chief secretary. From there they moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where Commissioner Hood served as Southern territorial commander until their retirement in 1998.

Commissioner Hood continued to work in post-retirement until 2021, as financial consultant for Sacramento County of the Del Oro Division.

The commissioner always had a youthful, exuberant spirit. He created many lifelong bonds while playing in Salvation Army bands, and loved his position as pitcher in Salvation Army softball leagues.

ARKANSAS & OKLAHOMA DIVISION

Major Kelly R. Durant Corps Officer - Muskogee, OK - PRSA

Major Regina Durant

Corps Officer - Muskogee, OK - PRSA

FLORIDA DIVISION

Lt. Colonel Gary W. Haupt

Corps Officer (Finance)

Citrus County, FL - PRSA

Lt. Colonel John R. Jones, Jr. Corps Officer (Program)

Citrus County, FL - PRSA

Colonel Dennis L. Strisse Corps Officer (Administration)

Citrus County, FL - PRSA

Sergeant Richard White

Corps Administrator - St. Augustine, FL

Sergeant Kathy White

Corps Administrator - St. Augustine, FL

KENTUCKY & TENNESSEE DIVISION

Lieutenant Carla M. Haworth Corps Officer - Owensboro, KY

Lieutenant Victor M. Haworth Corps Officer - Owensboro, KY

NORTH & SOUTH CAROLINA DIVISION

Major Darrell L. Kingsbury

Corps Officer - Georgetown, SC - PRSA

Major Deborah L. Kingsbury

Corps Officer - Georgetown, SC - PRSA

Sergeant Joseph H. Rodgers Corps Administrator - Shelby, NC

Sergeant Patti Rodgers Corps Administrator - Shelby, NC

POTOMAC DIVISION

Auxiliary Captain Dorothy Gates Corps Officer - Staunton, VA

Auxiliary Captain Mark Gates Corps Officer - Staunton, VA

TEXAS DIVISION

Major Candelaria J. Elias

Corps Officer - McKinney, TX - PRSA

Major Gabriel T. Elias

Corps Officer - McKinney, TX - PRSA

Colonel Kenneth O. Johnson

Divisional Secretary for Business

DHQ Staff - PRSA

Colonel Paula S. Johnson

Divisional Candidate’s Secretary; Divisional Evangelism & Adult Ministries Secretary - PRSA

Major Victor Valdes

Corps Officer - Corsicana, TX - PRSA

Major Ofelia Valdes

Corps Officer - Corsicana, TX - PRSA

Many will also recall his sense of humor. He was always quick with a smile and a joke. Family members believe he invented the “dad joke.” He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Major Leslie Hood.

Commissioner Hood is survived by his wife of 66 years, Commissioner Barbara Hood; as well as two daughters, Deanna and Joelle; and one son, Brian. He is also survived by four grandchildren.

The Celebration Of Life service for Commissioner Hood was held on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at the Sacramento Citadel Corps. Interment will be in the Salvation Army section of Cypress Lawn Memorial Park in Colma, California.

The Potomac Division Dedicates New Headquarters Building

BY KAREN YOHO

A sea of officers, soldiers, employees, and friends of The Salvation Army gathered to officially welcome the Potomac Division to their new divisional headquarters on May 9, 2023. Located in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, the headquarters at 1555 King Street is now home to the Southern Territory’s newest division, serving Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia.

The inauguration and dedication event began with a flag raising and ribbon cutting. Lt. Colonel Allan Hofer, Divisional Commander, shared the story of how the Potomac Division’s leadership team visited several potential properties, but 1555 King Street stood out.

“After we toured the building, which looked very different than it does today, we gathered as a team around the lamppost and began to reflect,” Lt. Colonel Hofer said. “We asked, ‘Is this place?’ We felt an overwhelming sense of peace that this was the place that God was giving us. We bowed our heads and prayed, asking if this was His will, that He open all the doors to make this happen. This is why we want to give all the honor, all the glory, and all the praise to our God and Savior Jesus Christ.”

Colonel Deborah Sedlar, Chief Secretary of the USA Southern Territory, unveiled the dedication plaque in the building lobby. This plaque includes an immense red shield logo embedded in the concrete floor of the rotunda. Lt. Colonel Hofer invited everyone to stand on the shield.

“This is the ground that the Lord has given us,” he said. “We have engraved in stone a constant reminder about God’s guidance, faithfulness, and to all who enter, the mission of The Salvation Army.”

Those in attendance flowed to the third floor for the official dedication service that included worship and praise, as well as recognition to individuals and organizations that played a part in the project. This ranged from designers, architects, and contractors to the staff transitional team, and territorial staff.

Colonel Sedlar spoke poignantly at the event, providing a charge for the Army’s work in the Potomac Division.

“A building cannot serve people. A building cannot feed people. A building cannot change the lives of people,” said Colonel Sedlar. “Only God working through people can do that. Unless we the people are willing to rededicate ourselves to what will happen across this great division, it has no meaning. The building is a tool to make a difference in the lives of people. We want to see positive change affected in the people who walk through the doors of every Salvation Army building, so we need to be revitalized, renewed, and changed to fit the purpose of God’s work in supporting this newly formed division.”

The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Raises Over $1.1 Million on Annual Clothing Extravaganza

BY KATHRYN SACCO SMITH

A star-studded crowd of shoppers rushed through the doors of River Oaks Country Club to get first dibs on the designer pieces offered in the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Reflections on Style event. The event raised over $1.1 million for the programs and services of the Army. Appreciation is expressed to all donors and sponsors including: Abientot, Tribute Goods, Briargrove Pharmacy, Caruggi, and Woody’s who donated new items for the 4-day sale that had 157 racks and displays in the space. At the close of the sale, there were only three racks of merchandise left.

This year’s theme was “Reflections on Style, Cirque du SAWA.” The luncheon sold out in one day with over 500 people in attendance. Shoppers enjoyed a festive morning of steals and deals, lunch, and Couture Runway Show. Guests were invited back to the salon to shop the incredible runway show selection of designer clothing, handbags and shoes.

Leading the helm of this coveted ticket were Kristy Liedtke and Mary Maxey. The Chic Boutique Gold Co-Chairs were Rhonda Jones and Pam Sengelmann and Chic Boutique Showroom Chairs were Mikki Donnelly and Maryann Gerity.

Accompanied by her husband Hugh, the esteemed honoree was Ann Roff, honored for her generous support and longtime service commitment to The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary and many other worthy organizations. The Rolfs were instrumental in funding the first emergency women’s shelter in the city in 2011.

The luncheon sold-out immediately and 4-day fashion sale was held on Wednesday, April 12-15th, 5125 Richmond Avenue formerly at World Market. The Chic Boutique Showroom is only open once a year.

The very best shopping deals come from some of Houston’s best closets. This year’s event featured “Pre-Loved” or new designer clothes, shoes, handbags and jewelry from top designers such as Valentino, Escada, Chanel, Prada, Oscar de la Renta, as well as many mid-range treasures from Milly, Tahari, Lafayette and Worth. The racks were full of fabulous finds from Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, and Talbots for shoppers to choose from.

Shopping their hearts out: Vicki West, Ann Bookout, Lilly Andress, Linda McReynolds, Darlene Clark, Allison Gemp, Maura Montgomery, Judy Tate, Tom Forney, Jenny Elkins, Phoebe Tudor, Stick DeLaup, Lucy Lewis, Maggie Austin, Maureen Higdon, Judy Chong, Darlene Clark, Connie Wallace, Jane and Jim Wise, Lynn Wyatt and Jan Griesenbeck, among many others.

For more information on this fashion frenzy, please contact Kathryn Smith at 713-252.5414 or stourtellot@aol.com.

General Shaw

Clifton

(Retired)

The son of officer-parents, Shaw Clifton was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, on September 21, 1945. His childhood years were spent in various parts of the UK. He later studied law at King’s College, University of London, gaining a Bachelor of Law (Honors) degree. Together with his wife Helen, whom he met at the age of twelve in his home corps of Edmonton, he entered the International Training College as a cadet in the Blood and Fire Session and was commissioned a Salvation Army officer on July 5, 1973.

His first appointment as a corps officer was at Burnt Oak, where he served for just a few months before being appointed to International Headquarters (IHQ) where he undertook further studies, achieving a first-class honors Bachelor of Divinity degree. He was also awarded the King’s College, London Relton Prize for Biblical and Historical Studies.

In July 1974, remaining at IHQ, Lt. Shaw Clifton was appointed to the Literary Department, where he served for six months before receiving his first overseas appointment, to Mazowe Secondary School, Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). He remained there until May 1977, becoming its vice-principal in November 1975. May 1977 saw a move to corps officer at Bulawayo Citadel. In January 1979, Captains Clifton returned to the United Kingdom and to corps leadership at Enfield Citadel where they served until May 1982.

A return to IHQ followed, with Captain Shaw Clifton’s appointment as Legal and Parliamentary Secretary, which he held for the next seven years, receiving the rank of major in May 1989. Whilst in this appointment he gained a PhD degree in the History of Religion, again from the University of London. His thesis would eventually lead to the 2015 book Crown of Glory, Crown of Thorns—The Salvation Army in Wartime.

A return to corps officership to Bromley Temple was undertaken from June 1989 until May 1992, before Major Clifton received his appointment as divisional commander, Durham and Tees Division. Further divisional leadership followed, but this time in Massachusetts, USA Eastern Territory, where the now Lt. Colonel Clifton served for two years before a further overseas appointment took him to the Pakistan Territory and the role of territorial commander, with the rank of colonel. He served there for almost five years, receiving the rank of commissioner on March 30, 2000.

Two further appointments as territorial commander followed, first in the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory (March 2002—June 2004), and then in the United Kingdom and Ireland Territory until his election as the 18th General of The Salvation Army, which responsibility commenced on April 2, 2006. He served in this capacity until his retirement from active officership service on April 1, 2011. During his term as General, Shaw Clifton led the international Salvation Army through a significant period of growth, with ministry commencing in 13 countries. His passion for social justice led to the creation of the International Social Justice Commission. He advocated constantly for women in spiritual leadership, refusing to consider new divisional commander, training principal or territorial cabinet appointments unless women were put forward in equal measure to men. High Council membership was enlarged to ensure the just representation of women officers.

Shortly after his retirement, on June 14, 2011, General Shaw Clifton faced considerable personal loss with the promotion to Glory of Commissioner Helen Clifton, who battled cancer for a short but devastating period. They had shared married life

and ministry for almost 44 years. Recalling their mere ten weeks in retirement together in his autobiographical essays Something Better…, he writes, “Now I would devote myself round the clock to caring for Helen until the Lord took her home to Heaven… Caring for her and tending to her needs was a privilege even more sacred, more eternally significant than being the General.” It is fitting that the personally crafted Mercy Seat in the meeting room at IHQ stands as a permanent physical memorial to Helen.

In September 2013 General Clifton married Commissioner (Ellen) Birgitte Brekke, to whom he pays written tribute in the introduction to Something Better… . He writes, “Commissioner Birgitte Brekke…has been a ready source of affectionate affirmation. Her patient interest in the project has done much to revive a measure of self-confidence and a sense of motivation.”

In addition to his leadership qualities, General Shaw Clifton will be remembered for his clear, sharp mind, undergirded by a pastoral spirit of sensitivity and compassion which was appreciated and valued by those who knew him. He was also a man of considerable literary skill, and a prolific writer. Among many others, his literary publications include Strong Doctrine, Strong Mercy, Growing Together (with Helen Clifton) and Something Better… Who are These Salvationists? and New Love reveal holiness teaching in the tradition of Samuel Logan Brengle as the true heart of General Clifton’s spiritual life and Salvationism. A major 30-month project in retirement was Volume Nine of The History of The Salvation Army. He continued writing until his final days, producing a nine-volume series of Twenty Talks…, the last two soon to be published. His commissioning of a new Handbook of Doctrine

and Song Book of The Salvation Army arose from deep convictions about the crucial place of both in Salvation Army life.

During his officership General Clifton served on the Salvation Army’s Doctrine Council and International Spiritual Life Commission. He was a founding member of the UKI Territory’s Moral and Social Issues Council and visiting lecturer at the International College for Officers from 1979 until well into retirement, lecturing also at the UK’s William Booth College.

PROMOTED TO GLORY

Commissioner Kenneth Hood

Commissioner

Kenneth Hood, former territorial commander for the South, was Promoted To Glory on May 15, 2023. He was 90.

Herbert Kenneth Hood was born in Bellingham, Washington on January 27, 1933, to parents Ira and Eflow Hood, themselves Salvation Army Officers in the USA Western Territory. He and his older brother, Leslie, grew up in the embrace of Salvation Army culture and both boys eventually became Officers “Hood...” continued on page 10

Camp Keystone Dining Hall, Starke,