Southern Spirit SEP 2023 - Vol 39 Issue 9

CHAMPIONS OF THE MISSION Cadets Answer Their Calling

BY BRAD ROWLAND

The Champions of the Mission session of cadets arrived at Evangeline Booth College this summer for a two-year period of intensive training in preparation for becoming officers of The Salvation Army. On Saturday, August 12, the session received its public welcome at the conclusion of the 2023 Southern Territorial Bible Conference.

“What a privilege it is for us to be able to celebrate the arrival of this new session of cadets while we’re wrapping up a great week of Bible Conference,” Colonel Deborah Sedlar, chief secretary, said at the outset of the welcome. “It’s as if we’re asking God to put the finishing touches on an already wonderful week. This meeting is about worshiping our great and mighty God in joyous celebration. Celebration for all that has taken place this week, and celebration of this next session of cadets.”

The session of 18 cadets includes 11 first-generation Salvationists from across the USA Southern Territory. The session name is shared across the Salvation Army world, forming a long-lasting bond, and Cadet Jeremy Warf received the session flag from Commissioner Kelly Igleheart, territorial commander, and Major Anthony Juliana, president and principal of Evangeline Booth College, for its first public posting.

A meaningful time of prayer, led by Commissioner Donna Igleheart, set a powerful tone for the evening with a focus on both the Champions of the Mission session and for God’s will across the Southern Territory.

“God has brought us here to welcome, to

celebrate, to consecrate the Champions of the Mission session,” said Commissioner Donna Igleheart. “We do not know entirely all that went into making this day possible, but we do know that God has brought this new session here. He made a way, even when the hurdles seemed too great to overcome. We thank Him for His faithfulness.”

An offertory was collected for the Nigeria Territory, and the Southern Territorial Youth Band performed before, during, and after the welcome

session. In addition, the Evangeline Booth College cadets and staff ministered in music, with Commissioner Kelly Igleheart delivering a poignant message.

The centerpiece was Acts 9 and the story of Saul’s conversion, though he intentionally spotlighted Ananias. He referred to Ananias as a “reluctant champion of the mission” and placed that

New General Welcomed at IHQ

FROM IHQ COMMUNICATIONS

On Monday August 7, 2023, Salvation Army officers and employees welcomed General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries) to International Headquarters (IHQ, London) with rapturous applause.

Flag-bearers escorted the new international leaders into the building, accompanied by the IHQ Staff Band playing “We have a gospel.”

As members of the public stopped outside to enjoy the historic occasion, hand-in-hand, the General and Commissioner Bronwyn were welcomed by Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest, who also greeted delegates from the International College for Officers. He said, “General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham, following the High Council in May, we believe the world leapt for joy! The 22nd General of The Salvation Army is now on duty.”

The congregation sang “Lord, I come before your throne of grace” before Commissioner Jane Paone brought everyone together in prayer. She said, “Loving heavenly Father, you are our faithful God in whom we place our trust completely. We pray for our new international leaders as they take on their new responsibilities. They are yours, dedicated to your service. We believe you will grant “New General...” continued on page 2

“Champions...” continued on page 2

Photo Credit: Laura Dake

Photo Credit: IHQ Communications

in the context of modern-day Christianity. “You can’t underestimate the ministry of an Ananias,” he said.

Commissioner Igleheart commended positive influences and mentors in his own life, challenging the incoming session and all in attendance to do the same. “These people will never win the ‘others’ award,” he said. “Most will never win the order of the founder. But they were the founders of my faith. I know that you can count many Ananias’s in your life.”

“You don’t need anything special,” Commissioner Igleheart said. “You just need a strong relationship with Jesus. That’s how Saul becomes Paul, and that’s all you need… You will take up your cross and His holy armor and march on.”

Commissioner Igleheart thanked the Champions of the Mission for “saying yes” and following God’s will, also laying the groundwork of a challenge, reminding the cadets of what lies ahead and what their mission encompasses.

“The people in your first corps are going to be your people,” Commissioner Igleheart said. “You’re going to love them. You’re going to disciple them. They will, in turn, love you. Those aren’t

them wisdom, understanding and compassionate hearts as they lead the international Salvation Army.”

Following the Lord’s Prayer, Colonel Peter Forrest spoke warmly to the new leaders, describ -

Commissioner Kelly Igleheart, Territorial Commander

Colonel Deborah Sedlar, Chief Secretary Lt. Colonel Mark Israel, Publisher Bernie Dake, Communications Director Kristin Mudge, Editor Brad Rowland, Staff Writer Stewart Art & Design, Layout and Design Wallace Graphics, Printing and Shipping

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only your people. It’s the people who live on the fringes. It’s the people who are stuck in the bars. It’s the people who have been trafficked. Those are our people. If you want the Kingdom of God to grow and your Army to grow, you have to see the community as your parish.”

Cadets of the Champions of the Mission session stood and proclaimed their collective zeal for the future, readiness to surrender and pray, engagement with missional priority, and responsibility for equipping, growing, empowering, and discipling the present and future of The Salvation Army. Their closing words resounded with their commitment to the next two years and beyond.

“We will remember our mission to meet human need in Christ’s name without discrimination,” the cadets declared. “We are not alone in this mission. We stand on the shoulders of those who have gone before us. Their legacy is proof of God’s faithfulness. We have the ability to see into a future where we all serve under our Blood and Fire banner of God’s transformation. Each of us can be an influence of transformation right where God has placed us—in our home, our corps, and our world. May God be glorified as we serve Him through our calling. We are Champions of the Mission.”

ing the conductor and first violinist at a recent musical event he had attended. He said, “I see IHQ under new leadership and our own leaders of the orchestra, Commissioner Bronwyn and our new General—General Lyndon Buckingham.” Likening different IHQ departments to the sections of an orchestra, Colonel Forrest continued, “I asked myself, ‘what is our music?‘ and was reminded that we support the General as he leads The Salvation Army in accomplishing its God-given mission of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and meeting human needs in his name without discrimination. General you can count on us. God bless you.”

The IHQ Staff Band played “Still” before Leonora Ledgister spoke on behalf of IHQ employees. She said, “General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham, on behalf of the IHQ employees, welcome! We celebrate the excitement you feel stepping into these new roles with many opportunities before you. We recognize the privilege and responsibility of leading this vast Army. We are confident that you are aware of the times we are living in and sensitive to God’s Spirit. And we acknowledge the enormity of the task and the huge and daunting challenges. But you are not alone… we offer you our best… commit to uphold you in prayer and with words of affirmation and encouragement. May God give you richly of his Spirit, wisdom, insight, understanding, grace, courage, and strength. Welcome home and abundant blessings to you both.”

Commissioner Keith Conrad (International Secretary, Africa zone) offered a prayer of dedication. Recognizing the process of the High Council and the election of new international leaders, he said, “Lord, here are your servants, General Lyndon and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham, who we lift to you in prayer and dedication for

the task you have entrusted to them… as they take up this mantle of being the Army’s international leaders, may the sweet anointing of your Holy Spirit rest upon them, giving them guidance and direction as they lead your Army in your mission to bring the world to Jesus.”

Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham responded to the tributes and prayers saying, “This momentous shift has profound implications for me. There is a huge blessing in the familiarity and stability [of IHQ] for me. We are 18,336 kilometers (11,393 miles) away from our family in New Zealand, and we could not be much further away from our blood family. There are days when it is hard to be this far away, but you bring richness to our lives. This place and its people have become family, and I am so glad to be a part of it. For such a time as this we share life and our mission together—thank you. Deep in my heart the truth of Jesus sits firmly without wavering. He began good work in me, and He will continue this until completion. Thank you for being my safe place to return to. May God bless us and bring us together at International Headquarters.”

Warm applause followed before session 254 of the International College for Officers sang “Bless our Army” as a precursor to General Lyndon Buckingham addressing the meeting. The new General thanked everyone for their support for him in his appointment. He said, “I am not naïve about the challenges and opportunities that face the Army today. We are supposed to embrace the opportunity to bring salt and flavor to the world. Bring on the challenges because they create opportunities for us!”

He spoke about Caleb’s role described in the Bible, explaining that he would like to be 85 years old, like Caleb, and still filled with the same zeal for God as he has now. He asked, “Can you imagine a global movement whose response is to serve God wholeheartedly? What a blessing! I want to testify to you this morning that I give myself wholeheartedly to the mission of The Salvation Army. We give ourselves to a big God and serve him without reservation. Let’s find that sweet spot of peace, purpose, and power. May it be so for the glory of God and the extension of his Kingdom. God bless you.”

Following warm applause, the congregation sang “He is the Lord, and He reigns on high” before Colonel Peter Forrest closed the meeting with the benediction and grace. He said, “May the child of God grow in you and His love bring you home.”

“Champions...” continued from page 1

Photo Credit: Laura Dake

“New General...” continued from page 1

General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham

Photo Credit: IHQ Communications

BY PHILIP BURN

El Paso Celebrates 125 Years of Mission, Ministry, and Music

It was an exciting weekend in El Paso, Texas as The Salvation Army celebrated 125 years in the Sun City together with Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart, territorial commander and territorial president of women’s ministries of the Southern Territory. A rededication of the family shelter on Saturday, July 15 was followed by the graduation of the corps’ four-week Music & Arts Conservatory on Sunday, July 16.

Commissioners Igleheart arrived in El Paso on Friday and visited The Salvation Army Family Center, meeting employees and volunteers and learning about the mission in the borderland involving local displaced families, refugees, and quarantined families and individuals.

El Paso is so far west that it was previously part of The Salvation Army Western Territory until “coming home” to the Texas Division in July 2010. This was the Commissioners’ first visit to the area, and Majors Eloisa and Floiran Estrada, leaders of The Salvation Army in El Paso, arranged for the Iglehearts to tour the shelter and administrative building, the corps, and the County Migrant Services Center. The Salvation Army remains the only partnering non-governmental organization at the migrant center, providing meals and hygiene kits to new arrivals who have been successfully vetted by immigration services and are awaiting transportation to their final destinations in the US.

The Salvation Army family shelter in El Paso was one of 100 locations across the nation selected for the Lowe’s Hometown grant in 2022. Renovations and repairs to the dorm rooms, bathrooms, hallways,

lobby, and more were made possible by this generous support from Lowe’s. The rededication service at the shelter was attended by staff from Lowe’s, local city and county officials, representatives of the Chamber of Commerce, Advisory Board members, and supporters. After a ribbon cutting ceremony, Commissioner Kelly Igleheart addressed the community on the mission and ministry of The Salvation Army and thanked Lowe’s and other community partners for their support.

Sunday was a day of celebration at the El Paso Citadel Corps as the fifth annual “Better Together” Music & Arts Conservatory presented their graduation concert. More than 20 young people attended daily classes during the four-week conservatory in brass, music theory, choir, and drama, led by a committed and qualified staff. Parents and friends filled the chapel and were treated to wonderfully energetic performances from the young musicians interspersed with solo performances from conservatory staff. Music students presented choir special “We’re All in This Together” as the final performance. All graduating students received certificates and medals, and the five top students were awarded trophies.

“Being so far from Camp Hoblitzelle in Dallas, we decided that if our kids could not go to the divisional music conservatory, we would bring conservatory to them,” said Major Floiran Estrada. “This has become our tradition, and we are so happy to have welcomed more than 20 students to the program. We’re extremely proud of our young musicians and are grateful to God for sending us excellent teachers, great volunteers, and generous sponsors.”

Photo Credit: Philip Burn

Photo Credit: Lena De La Garza

Photo Credit: Philip Burn

Photo Credit: Philip Burn

SSC Sends Young Adults Into Global Mission Field

BY KRISTIN MUDGE

For the first time in three years due to global COVID restrictions, three teams, each composed of four young adults, were launched into the mission field this summer through the USA Southern Territory’s Salvationist Service Corps (SSC) program. One team travelled to Jamaica, another flew to Japan, and the final team served in our own territory in the Florida division. Each group spent six weeks ministering and spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.

During their launch at Commissioning in June, territorial youth secretary Major Tim Gilliam declared, “Our young adults are inspired. They are anointed to do great things for the Kingdom. They are prepared to go beyond their comfort zone and beyond their borders to spread the revival fire and to evangelize and disciple the whosoever.”

Deborah Ensley from Team Japan describes SSC: “You put your life on hold to go minister the Word of God to people who haven’t heard much of it or have heard a lot but just need help… You basically just go on a ministry walk with Jesus for six weeks.” Gerardo Maldonado adds, “I would explain it as a life changing experience. So, it’s mission work. You’re out there changing other peoples’ lives, but at the same time they’re changing yours.”

Team Japan, made up of Gerardo Maldonado (co-leader, TX), Gracie Parrish (co-leader, KT), Ke’olani Perez (NSC), and Deborah Ensley (NSC), flew across the world to serve where they did not even speak the language. They served in many cities all over the country including Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka. Deborah tells us, “A lot of the things we got to do were ministering with children. So we went to elementary schools, we got to go to kids’ festivals… We got to experience traveling to some of the elderly homes, some children’s homes as well. So, we got to do a little bit of everything.” Gerardo adds that they did some street ministry where they went out and prayed for people. “I thought when we showed up that we were just going to be in the trenches. I thought we were going to be out there just struggling, sweating, preaching in the streets every single day.” When he discovered that most of their work would be with kids, he admits that he was a little disappointed. “I was like… there’s not much we can do; they’re just kids. But, man, I was completely wrong. The kids were such a blessing, the lessons that they taught me… is something that I cherish in my heart, and I feel like I’m going to be learning from that for the rest of my life.”

Gracie says of her experience: “It showed me how deep faith can be. Going overseas–I know faith, and I know how deep it can be for some people. But meeting the officers and just being totally involved with them, I just noticed how deep faith can really be. They’re all in for God and all in for being hands-on with their community, with their country, just trying their best to spread the gospel.”

Team Florida, or the “Sunshine Crew”, had the opportunity to see what intentional service can be like in our own backyard in St. Petersburg. The team—Nathan Roberts (co-leader, PMC), Caroline Brummer (co-leader, TX), Markel Fields (ALM), and Carla Moore (NSC)—split their time between the Sallie House for foster children, the Boys and Girls Club, the Children’s Village, the homeless shelter, and even spent a week at Camp Keystone as counselors.

As many of the children they worked with were from The Salvation Army’s programs for foster children, the team experienced many challenges, but they also learned a lot about the “ministry of presence”. Caleb Louden, the territorial youth Character Building and camp program director and SSC liaison explains, “The ministry of presence … can be the most powerful kind of ministry. It’s just being there for people when they need someone to listen to them and show them that they’re seen and loved.”

says, “[SSC] personally impacted me by being able to grow my relationship with God and grow my leadership skills. Since I’m called to be an officer in The Salvation Army, it gave me an opportunity to be a leader of a team and definitely just grow myself spiritually.”

Caroline shared that one of the most impactful moments of the summer for her happened on the very last day. “We had two girls; I wouldn’t say ‘problem’, but they were definitely troubled just from what they are going through.” She explained that one of these girls had even declared that she was an atheist and really did not care what the team had to say to her about Jesus. On their final day, the team was not scheduled to go to church, but they decided that they had the time and felt like they should attend. “So, we went to church on Sunday. And at the very end when it was the time of commitment, both those girls… asked [us] to go to the altar and just pray with them.”

Caroline

Team Jamaica—Emily Horton (co-leader, KT), Josiah Outerbridge (co-leader, TX), Destiny Stephens (FL), and Jacky Orozco (TX)—spent their six weeks on a Salvation Army compound in Kingston, working with the School for the Blind, the Francis Ham elderly home, The Nest children’s home, and the Havendale Corps. They did a wide variety of activities from gardening, painting, and leading devotions to fellowshipping with children, officers, and locals. They were even able to experience Jamaica’s Commissioning. Jacky tells us that though it felt much smaller than our Southern Territorial Commissioning, it was inspiring to see that God is calling people from other places in the world.

Destiny tells us that about halfway through the summer she saw a huge “God moment”. “We were at church, and one of the kids came up to me and asked me to go pray with her. And so, I went and prayed with her. But I asked was there anything specific, and she just said that she really missed her family. She was one of the children in the children’s home. And so, I prayed that if it was God’s will that her family would come and visit her. And I asked her how long it had been since the last visit. And she said it had been two years.” A couple of weeks later the girl asked Destiny to pray with her again. “And later that day… there was a guy there with… her and her sister, and I said, ‘Who is this?’ And she said, ‘Miss, it’s my uncle.’ And she gave me the biggest smile. And

Photo Credit: Laura Dake

Photo Credit: Caroline Brummer

Team Florida

Photo Credit: Colonel Wendy Morris

Team Japan

it was just the sweetest moment ever. And I was like, wow, that was really God.”

Emily says that SSC has impacted her life, “just with my walk with Jesus and… my walk with myself, learning that I am capable of doing many things. And learning to lean on God, more than I have in my regular life and continuing that even coming back.”

Many of the team members have much to say to anyone considering participating in SSC in the future. Gerardo says, “This is for everybody. I feel like everyone should apply. There’s no, ‘maybe I’m new to The Salvation Army,’ or, ‘I’m too old,’ ‘I’m too young,’ ‘I don’t have enough experience.’ No, this is for everybody.” Destiny says, “There’s so much opportunity for ministry, but also personal growth.” Nathan tells us, “If you’re really into leading and being a disciple and being a person that everybody looks up to, this is the thing for you. This changes lives… SSC will change your life.”

If you or someone you know is interested in applying for Salvationist Service Corps 2024, visit www.youthdownsouth.org/young-adults for more information.

Delegates All In for Jesus at TYI

BY MAJOR JAMIE SATTERLEE

This summer, teens and young adults from around the territory gathered at Camp Walter Johnson (NSC) for the Southern Territory’s annual Territorial Youth Institute. Inspired by Mark Batterson’s “The Circle Maker,” delegates were challenged to be All In and to bring their bold, audacious prayers to God. From the beginning of the week, delegates were invited to join the “All In circle”, surrendering the week, and beyond, to what God had in store. The delegates rose to the challenge laid before them. While discipleship moments outside of the daily meetings are usually led by staff, this year, the delegates took the lead. “It was such a beautiful thing to see,” says Major Jamie Satterlee, territorial youth secretary. “Before breakfast, during free time, you’d see small groups of delegates studying the Word and praying together, completely delegate driven. This year’s delegation really took advantage of being able to gather with like-minded young people and to grow deeper in their relationship with Jesus.”

There was a real sense of desire for deep relationship with Jesus. Studies show that this generation, Generation Z, born between 1999-2015, are the first truly “post-Christian” generation. The percentage of teens who identify as atheist is more than twice that of older generations. What we saw at TYI, however, shows that while this statistic may be true, there is a significant number of young people who are hungry for Jesus and are seeking relationship with Him.

This was evident throughout the week’s Morning Mannas, a time set aside each day for worship, led by Aaron McClain, and Bible teaching. This year’s focus, led by Dr. Jeff Wallace, centered around Luke 10:27, with each day lasering in on each of the imperatives found there: loving God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind, and loving others as you love yourself. Worship wasn’t just confined to these morning meetings. One of the most impactful experiences of the week was Thursday night’s Prayer and Praise meeting. From the moment the delegates entered the chapel, there was a sense of the moving of the Spirit. Prayer stations were set up around the room so that delegates could move through at their own pace. In the center, set in the circle, was an acoustic musical group, who simply sang worship songs throughout the evening, allowing delegates to pray in the circle or continue through the prayer stations. One of the most impactful stations was a foot washing station, which explained the biblical concept and provided an example before

guiding the delegates through the washing of another’s feet. There was a steady movement of delegates through this station, and tears flowed as they served their peers and prayed over them. The experience was so great that many did not want to leave the space, staying to worship well beyond the allotted schedule.

There was plenty of time for fellowship outside of the worship experiences with organized recreation and electives. These electives included both practical life skills, such as a class on adulting, as well as performance groups. One such group was the gospel choir elective, led by Lt. Denzell McClain, who led Sunday’s benediction with “Total Praise,” the perfect end to the day’s worship service. During that service, led by Major Matt Satterlee, territorial youth secretary, the delegates were encouraged to take everything they had learned throughout the week and put it into action. Drawing from Mt. Everest base camp survival tactics, delegates learned that being All In requires continual discipline to grow in Him. “We’ve got to stop trying to maintain our relationship with Jesus by only getting filled at events. We have to daily draw from the buckets, the spiritual disciplines, to climb the mountain.”

It’s tempting to look at the stats on young people and faith and be discouraged, but we serve a God who is bigger than any statistical trend, and this TYI is evidence that God is still at work in the lives of this generation. They desire to grow in Him, and it’s our responsibility to guide them in discipleship and holiness, and to equip them as leaders, as they devote themselves to serve as All In disciples for the kingdom.

Photo Credit: Laura Dake

Photo Credit: G-Lab

Photo Credit: G-Lab

Team Jamaica

Salvation Army Summer Camps:

4,341 CHILDREN AND TEENS EXPERIENCED CAMP

130,017 MEALS SERVED

92,388 IN ATTENDANCE AT SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT

24,173 TOTAL DAYS OF SUMMER CAMP PROVIDED

COUNTLESS CONFIDENCES BOOSTED

Photos by Jon Avery, Joseph Chang, Captain Derrick Smith, Kahley Garcia,

Camp Changes Lives

Every year The Salvation Army’s summer camp programs impact the lives of thousands of children from across our territory. The Southern Territory has seven camps providing kids in the southern United States with fun and safe environments where they can get a fresh perspective on life as they meet new friends, discover new activities, and get a taste of the great outdoors.

1,978 YOUTH SEEKERS CAME TO THE ALTAR

86,983 SNACKS SERVED

THOUSANDS OF FRIENDSHIPS MADE

DEVELOPMENT MEETINGS

Garcia, Lewis Joseph • Statistics from the 2022 Summer Camp season

BY KRISTIN MUDGE

We do not always get to see God work miracles in front of our eyes, but upon closer inspection we can often see His hands at work. This is especially true in my experience. If I look closely, I can see His fingerprints in every part of my life.

The Journey

I grew up a “PK”, or pastor’s kid, in the United Methodist Church. Being the middle of five children, I quickly learned to value silence and solitude–rare commodities in our household of seven. I was a voracious reader; I read every spare moment of the day, and often far too late into the night. That love of reading led to a love of literature and grammar. I became the go-to person among my family and friends to read and edit homework and papers, and I even edited my husband’s PhD dissertation.

Following high school, I attended Asbury University to study media communications with an emphasis in film studies and a minor in music. I loved every moment of my time living and learning in Wilmore. At the end of my education, I felt fully prepared to step directly into the world of production.

Instead of going straight for a position in the film or TV industries, I married Ian Mudge, this incredibly loving and intelligent man who wore a uniform to church on Sundays. He introduced me to The Salvation Army where I soon became involved in music ministry.

When Ian graduated, we had no idea what the next step was for our lives. We packed up all our belongings and drove to Texas to be music instructors at Camp Hoblitzelle for the summer, taking a leap of faith that we would figure

out where we would go by the end of camp. Ian got accepted to a graduate school program for psychology in Odessa, TX, so at the end of the summer we moved out west where we quickly became involved in the corps. When Ian did a spot for the local news promoting The Army, he mentioned to the news team that I had my degree in media and had worked as a camera assistant at the London 2012 Olympics.

I spent the next eight months deep in the news cycle, first producing the weekend news shows, then moving up to producing the six o’clock evening news every weekday. When Ian graduated with his master’s degree, I left the fast-paced and high-energy world of news as we followed God’s leading to move to Dallas.

I was hired into the Texas divisional youth department for event planning, administrative support, and graphic design. After working for several years, I transferred to the women’s department to do the same functions with a new demographic. Following my son’s birth in 2021, I decided to take an extended leave to be home with him.

Then we felt God calling us to Atlanta. We sold our house, flew across the country, and trusted that God knew what He was doing in our lives.

Now here I am, utilizing everything I have learned so far, from my love of reading and grammar to my studies in media communications and storytelling, to my experience of news production, and through my years of ministering with The Salvation Army from the corps to divisional levels. I am incredibly humbled and blessed to follow in illustrious footsteps, walking the path set before me by a God who has had a plan for my life from the very spark of my existence. What a journey it has been, and what a journey we have still ahead of us!

Reruns

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

Yes, my wife and I like to watch the old TV shows. And yes, we like to listen to the old music. Classics, we tell ourselves. Not like the junk they make now. No, sir. Ours was the good stuff.

But as I recall some of our comments as we watched or listened, some of them included, “Boy, that song was awful.” “That used to be my favorite song, but when I hear it now, I wonder what in the world I liked about it.” Or there’s the, “Isn’t the color and the soundtrack poor?” Then there are the times we find one of our favorite old television shows and feel ourselves turning crimson to think we used to look forward to a new episode each week.

One of the dangers of aging is remembering colors that were brighter than they really were or music that was more tuneful than it could possibly have been. There were a whole lot of songs that were pure junk and a whole lot of TV shows that were incredibly dismal. That pours over into

accomplishments whose memory we savor, but many were probably not that big of a deal. It’s as if over time the echo has become more important than the original sound.

Still, we console ourselves with some that really are classics, like “The Andy Griffith Show,” that no one has dared to copy. And the Beatles really were that good.

There was that moment when God allowed me to somehow speak something into someone’s life or be the bearer of His message and a life was changed. That remains as wonderful as I remember it. While it is good to reminisce and, in those moments, thank God again for a blessing that continues to touch me even now, I can’t miss what is in this day.

There are beautiful songs I have not yet heard and wonderful passages I have not yet read. There are sights that will delight my eyes and blessings that are here. And if my heart is aligned with God as it should be, there is still someone who might need to hear what I have to say on behalf of the King.

Days past were good days, but so are these. God, grant me the wisdom to see them and use them as You intend.

WE ARE AN ARMY!

More PT, Drill Sergeant, More PT!

BY DR. STEVE KELLNER

Basic training in the military is quite a shock to the system for trainees, but perhaps the most shocking thing is the amount of physical training, or PT, that goes on practically around the clock. Not only is there a daily hour-long PT session where trainees perform iconic military exercises like push-ups, sit-ups, side straddle hops, and mountain climbers, but there are countless extra push-ups inflicted as punishment for various infractions throughout the training day, as in “Drop and give me 50!”

But stranger than doing PT all day, every day, is that trainees are required to like it, or at least say they do. For example, after each PT exercise my basic training platoon was required to shout, “More PT, Drill Sergeant, more PT. We like it, we love it, we want more of it!”, in effect asking to have more physical pain inflicted upon us. Likewise, when we finished the number of punishment pushups ordered by a Drill Sergeant, we shouted, “Drill Sergeant, thank you for allowing me to properly condition my body!”

We trainees thought this was crazy, but as was usually the case with basic training, there was a method to the madness. Our Drill Sergeants wanted us to embrace, and even enjoy, the painful process of getting into good physical condition and the stress of learning well all the new skills required to become a good soldier.

This is not a new idea. In fact, we find it throughout the New Testament regarding spiritual training. We are to train ourselves for godliness if we are to “compete in the games” of spiritual warfare (1 Timothy 4:7-8), even “striking a blow to our body” so that we will not be “disqualified for the prize” of winning as many as possible for the Kingdom (1 Corinthians 9). We don’t do this glumly but with joy, because when God disciplines us, He is treating us as His children, and though it is unpleasant at times, it yields a “harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:7-11).

If we want to become good soldiers in The Salvation Army, we should expect a certain amount of continuous pain and stress in the process. Some of this will be inflicted by the Holy Spirit Himself as He ferrets out hidden sin in our lives and gives us direction. In other cases, it will come from our leaders and comrades as they “speak the truth in love” to us about our shortcomings as believers and Salvationists. This is not a particularly pleasant process, but we should all embrace it as the path to a closer relationship with Jesus and as the power source of all that we do as soldiers in the Army.

So, when the Holy Spirit or our comrade Salvationists gently correct us, let’s—internally at least—shout, “We like it, we love it, we want more of it!”, and embrace the process of becoming more like Jesus.

BATTLE LINES

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

TMI Encourages Giving One’s All

BY BRAD ROWLAND

From July 24-31, nearly 200 delegates and a dedicated, experienced staff gathered for the 2023 Southern Territorial Music Institute (TMI). The eight-day, intensive music and arts camp is held in a similar window on the calendar each year, but, for the first time, the 2023 installment took place at Asbury University in Wilmore, KY. The theme for the week was “All in All,” with a focus on Ephesians 4 and 5.

There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

Delegates and staff arrived Sunday evening, July 24, and things kicked off Monday morning with a full slate of auditions, followed by a “Welcome to TMI” program and the first meetings of both major and choral classes. Each full day at TMI featured “Morning Manna,” a devotional gathering led by Majors Zach and Shelley Bell focused on biblical study and worship, as well as a nightly time of vespers and sealed orders.

“Majors Zach and Shelley Bell were outstanding in the ministry each morning,” said Nick Simmons-Smith, territorial music and creative arts education secretary. “They provided solid biblical teaching coupled with a simple, easy-to-grasp analogy and a life application.”

While most mornings featured a shorter devotional followed by small group discussions, Thursday’s Morning Manna gathering was extended and included a time of commitment and a challenge from Major Zach Bell.

“For some of us, we’re putting on a show,” Major Bell said. “Can I just encourage you to stop? Stop. Put off the old self. Allow Christ to come in and to renew your mind and put on the new. Put on the new… God is here. He wants to meet you where you are. We want to acknowledge who He is. We want to acknowledge who we are. And we want to reconcile that. Let’s respond. Let’s put off the old and put on the new.”

Each day’s schedule incorporated two major class periods, a choral/leadership period, and an elective period, as well as an evening program. Major classes included four bands, five worship teams, eight creative arts groups, and a piano major track, while the institute also featured four choruses and four leadership tracks.

The band and choral ensembles performed at a mid-week “preview concert” on Thursday, July 27 and during a two-part final concert on Sunday, July 31, with both gatherings taking place in Hughes Auditorium. Each group illustrated tremendous artistry and reflected the dedication and hard work from delegates throughout the week.

“The concerts showed once again how far the delegates progressed during the week,” said Simmons-Smith. “The concerts are also useful as barometers for how far TMI has grown over the years.”

Creative arts ensembles took part in the mid-week preview concert but also concluded the week with a final production on Saturday, July 30. The gathering was deeply moving and inspirational, serving as both a night at the theater for delegates and also as a tremendous time in worship. The overarching focus of the production was Midrash, a traditional rabbinic practice of exploring scripture. This included two variations of each scripture passage, with a “white fire piece” illuminating and exploring truth and aspects within the story and a “black fire piece” focusing and remaining as true to the Word as possible.

“The Creative Arts production was a highlight with each group presenting dance and drama pieces based on the Living Word of God,” Simmons-Smith said. “The audience experienced a whole gamut of emotions from laughter, empathy, and introspection. It was a brave program to produce, and it proved to be immensely successful.”

Other evening programs included a recital from special guest Mark Ridenour, an evening replicating the popular “Masked Singer” television show, and a delegate solo recital. Ridenour, a dedicated Salvationist and co-principal trumpet of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, wowed observers with his performance, and, at the delegate recital, young people showcased their skill and dedication through brass, drama, dance, vocal, and worship team performances.

Throughout the week, delegates and staff were also privileged to take in the atmosphere

at Asbury University just months after a revival outpouring that garnered international attention. With a warm campus setting and extensive facilities to accommodate TMI’s myriad programming, the university delivered an impactful experience for many.

“It was a unique experience to be at Asbury University, very new for us. But there are excellent facilities and a relationship with the university that goes back a long way,” Simmons-Smith said. “To be in Hughes Auditorium, the scene of the revival and outpouring earlier this year, was also wonderful. The acoustics and history of that venue made it an inspiring place to worship and present music.”

As with any Salvation Army event, the overarching focus built toward Sunday’s conclusion on July 31, both through the two-part concert “TMI Encourages...” continued on page 10

Photo Credit: Jon Avery

Photo Credit: Jon Avery

Photo Credit: Jon Avery

and crucially through Sunday morning worship. Major Zach Bell gave the message at the Sunday morning service, and Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart, territorial leaders, were present in ministry alongside delegates and staff in both meetings.

“Father... We want more of you. Father, if I’m honest, I need more of you,” Commissioner Igleheart said during Sunday worship. “We’ve come to Asbury. We’ve come to TMI this week. For most of us, that’s been our prayer even on the way. We need more of you, God. Lord, I thank you that you have met us here. That your spirit has been obvious in every class, in every bed, at every meal, in every laugh, in every relationship that’s been formed, every sweet reunion that’s come. You have been in, and through, everything. As we continue to worship, we invite

you even closer, and we know that when we come close to you, you come close to us. We ask that you have your way and that your will be done.”

Commissioner Kelly Igleheart also delivered an inspiring challenge to all gathered near the conclusion of the final concert, reminding dele -

gates and staff to use their talents in praise and devotion to the Lord after returning home.

“It’s time to go back home and go to work,” said Commissioner Igleheart. “It’s time to take what you’ve learned all summer and apply it. To get back involved in the band or chorus or the arts group at the corps. Or make a new one. Ask your corps officer to make you a local officer and let’s go straight to work.”

NEWS BRIEFS

• The Salvation Army has launched widespread efforts to provide food and other essential items and services to evacuees after spontaneous wildfires erupted and spread across numerous communities on the Hawaiian island of Maui. The fires tragically claimed dozens of lives and consumed thousands of acres while displacing more than 11,000 people from their homes. The Salvation Army’s Hawaiian & Pacific Islands Division unfortunately confirmed the loss of the entire Lahaina Lighthouse Corps complex including the administrative building, church, thrift store, and residential quarters, though all staff evacuated safely from the building. As of mid-August, The Salvation Army was feeding and coordinating more than 7,000 meals per day, and donations may be made online at Hawaii.SalvationArmy.org or via text of HAWAIIFIRE to 51555. “The Salvation Army is committed to assisting those in need during this critical time,” said Commissioner Kenneth G. Hodder, national commander of The Salvation Army. “Our local officers, staff, and volunteers are extending relief and support to people in affected areas, ensuring that no one faces this disaster alone. We will continue to do everything to support these communities now and well after the flames have been extinguished.”

• Sarah Hawkins, co-owner of the backyard farm The Feed Bucket with her husband Tom, donated surplus egg production to The Salvation Army of Owensboro, Kentucky just over a year ago, helping the organization to fill its 500 food baskets a month for distribution to needy families. That led to a burgeoning relationship between Hawkins and The Salvation Army, with a monthly donation between 40 and 90 dozen eggs multiple times per month and also a sizable donation of pork for The Salvation Army to use in meeting human need.

“TMI Encourages...” continued from page 9

Photo Credit: Jon Avery

Photo Credit: Jon Avery

Major Lee Ann Nelson Major Sue Overton

Major Lee Ann Nelson was Promoted to Glory on July 27, 2023, at the age of 65.

Lee Ann Oxendine was born on October 17, 1957, in Portsmouth, VA, to Oscar & Ann Oxendine, the oldest of seven children.

Her family moved often during her childhood, due to her father’s military career, until his retirement in 1974, at which time they settled in Lawton, OK. It was in the Lawton Corps that Lee Ann met The Salvation Army through the Girl Guard program.

At Guard Camp one summer her cabin counselor led her to accept Christ as her personal Savior. During that Sunday’s worship service, Lee Ann decided she wanted to learn all she could about Jesus.

She became very involved with the corps and was active in all activities there. During a subsequent Youth Councils, she responded to the Call to Officership. At first, her plan was to go to college because she wanted to give the Lord and The Salvation Army her best. Therefore, she notified her divisional staff of her plan to go to training after college.

But soon after, with much prayer, the Lord revealed to her that it was time, now. She stated that God gave her officers who cared enough for her to bring her into their home, showing and teaching her what officership includes.

Lee Ann entered the Evangeline Booth College in September 1977 as a member of the Joyful Evangelists session of cadets. She was commissioned on June 3, 1979, serving as a single officer in Fort Smith, OK; North Little Rock, AR; Enid, OK; Springdale, AR; Hagerstown, MD; and, Athens, GA.

On July 18, 1986, she married the love of her life, Ken Nelson, and together they served in Lawrenceville, Griffin, Waycross, and Albany—all in the Georgia Division. From there, they were appointed to the Texas Division, at Galveston, Houston, Houston Harbor Light, and Greenville. Their last active appointment was in Alexandria, LA, and from there they entered honored retirement on July 1, 2017.

Out of all their appointments, Griffin was the most significant, as all three of their children were born there.

Major Lee Ann faithfully served as a Salvation Army officer for over 38 years and continued to serve in retirement at the Lakeland Corps in Florida.

Major Lee Ann Nelson is survived by her husband of 37 years, Major Ken Nelson, and by her three children: Kenneth (Julie) Nelson, Kerrie (Antonio) Baiz, and Kyle Nelson. She also leaves two grandchildren.

Major Sue Overton was Promoted to Glory at the age of 74 from a hospice facility on August 7, 2023.

Mandy Sue Woodard was born on August 21, 1948, to Oren & Mandy Woodard in Corpus Christi, Texas. She had three brothers and two sisters.

After the family moved to Waco, Texas, Sue began attending The Salvation Army with her mother. She became very active in corps programs, played her alto horn in open-air meetings, was involved in youth meetings, and helped sell copies of The War Cry to help generate funds for the corps. She participated in corps programs wherever she was needed.

Sue Woodard felt called to Salvation Army officership for several years before entering the Evangeline Booth College in Atlanta in September 1968 as a member of the Undaunted session of cadets. Commissioned in 1970, she served in Wichita Falls, Texas before moving to the National Capital-Virginia Division as Guard & Sunbeam director.

On April 10, 1973, she married Walter (Tom) Overton. Following Tom’s commissioning in June 1975, the couple served in Charleston, WV; and Arlington, VA. They were then sent to the Arkansas-Oklahoma Division where she served as Guard & Sunbeam director as well as Corps Cadet counselor.

Corps appointments followed in Corpus Christi, Texas; Clearwater, and West Palm Beach, FL; and as leaders of the Miami Area Command. From there, they were appointed to be administrators for Adult Rehabilitation Centers in Charlotte, NC; and, Tulsa, OK, from which she entered honored retirement after over 43 years of faithful service as a Salvation Army officer. She is survived by her loving husband of more than 50 years, Major Tom Overton; one daughter, Jessica (Jeremy) Blackburn; one son, Christopher (Allison) Overton; and three grandchildren.

Salvation Army Family Store, San Antonio, TX

Camp Keystone Holiness Center Starke, FL

Camp Keystone Dining Hall, Starke, FL

Camp Keystone Cabins, Starke, FL

Camp Keystone Multipurpose, Starke, FL

BY BRAD ROWLAND

Called to Kingdom Living BIBLE CONFERENCE 2023

From August 6-12, hundreds assembled at Lake Junaluska for the 2023 Southern Territorial Bible Conference. The annual event featured inspired teaching, wonderful fellowship, and powerful worship, with the theme song for the week setting an appropriate baseline against the backdrop of a picturesque landscape.

I’m living on the mountain, underneath a cloudless sky; I’m drinking at the fountain that never shall run dry;

Oh, yes! I’m feasting on the manna from a bountiful supply;

For I am dwelling in Beulah Land

The 71st annual event focused on the theme of “Kingdom Living Now & Forever,” with three featured speakers over the course of the week. Dr. Carla Sunberg, general superintendent of the Church of the Nazarene was joined by author and historian Chris Tiegreen and Lt. Colonel Dean Hinson, divisional commander of the Arkansas-Oklahoma division, in delivering the Word with tremendous depth.

The conference began with an inspiring concert from world-renowned vocalist David Phelps on Sunday evening, August 6. Phelps, a member of the Gaither Vocal Band for more than 15 years and a multi-time Dove and Grammy award winner, set a strong tone for the upcoming week of study with a rousing performance. For the next five days, the schedule included two or three teaching sessions daily and a rotation of the keynote speakers.

The predominant focus on Kingdom living was present, with each bringing the message in different forms. Tiegreen focused heavily on the book of Ephesians with messages titled “See,” “Be,” “Live,” and “Love.”

“Teaching is important,” Tiegreen said. “Preaching is important. Instruction is important. All of that is very important. But one of the things we all need is for people to see. It’s transforming.”

“I can promise you, in the Kingdom, the rewards are always greater than the costs,” said Tiegreen. “You will never sacrifice something, in the Kingdom, where the reward is less than the sacrifice. Whatever we pour out, God will pour in.”

Lt. Colonel Hinson took attendees on a biblical journey with impressive detail and considerable passion for scripture in his teachings.

“Scripture is clear that He is coming back,” said Lt. Colonel Hinson. “That there is a future bliss where we will be with Him in that Kingdom. But it is also clear that it is not our duty to just sit back and wait for the Kingdom to come.”

“We’ve got to be ready,” Lt. Colonel Hinson said. “We’ve got to stay vigilant. We’ve got to be alert. We can’t kick back… God’s Kingdom timing is up to God. Let’s not take that place. We’ll leave it to Him, as we keep watch.”

Dr. Sunberg artfully placed biblical stories

into modern context, focusing on Martha, Mary Magdalene and others while challenging the delegates. She spoke on the concept of “no man’s land,” pushing all to “move from resurrection to Pentecost and trust Jesus” in the process. In addition, Dr. Sunberg reflected powerfully on identity in our modern world and, alongside Tiegreen and Lt. Colonel Hinson, encouraged with the reality that “God doesn’t just love you. He really likes you. God delights in you. God is so excited when you put aside time and just come and hang out with Him.”

“There is no one beyond the reach of the Savior’s touch,” Dr. Sunberg said.

“The call to Kingdom living is not the call to good works,” she added. “It is the call to be like Christ.”

Most evenings were filled with teaching sessions, though Friday, August 11 featured a stirring program headlined by powerful stories from the territory’s Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARC). The ARC joined forces with the Southern Territorial Youth Band and Territorial Arts Ministry (TAM)

for a night filled with testimonies and worship that will not soon be forgotten.

Though the week’s events concluded with the official welcome of the Champions of the Mission session of cadets on the evening of Saturday, August 12, the final morning of the conference also touched hearts and brought future-facing hope to all. An extensive youth program was presented with performances and awards from each age group of children spending the week at Lake Junaluska.

Attendees left Lake Junaluska changed and challenged, as well as equipped with tremendous knowledge on the Kingdom of God, both in the present and with overarching hope for the future.

Photo Credit (all photos on this page): Laura Dake