Southern Spirit JAN 2024 - Vol 40 Issue 1

DISCIPLE

LOVE – SERVE – DISCIPLE Answering FAQs with the Territorial Leaders

Majors Matt and Jamie Satterlee sat down with Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart, leaders of the Southern Territory, to ask a few frequently asked questions (FAQs), to gain some clarity on the Territorial Priorities, and to discuss their vision for the territory for the new year.

LOVE – SERVE – DISCIPLE: What is this initiative?

Commissioner Kelly: We wrapped the mission statement around everything because we’re loving and we’re serving and discipling all people, regardless of where they come from, their experience, or how they feel about themselves… That ‘All for Jesus’ banner, speaking into the mission statement and coming alongside what people are already doing and what we can help them do even better, hopefully helps give direction.

Commissioner Donna: We can do programs, we can do social services, disaster work, but everything has to bring honor and glory to Jesus. He has to be the centerpiece, the focus of all that we do.

Is this a new program?

Commissioner Kelly: Corps officers are already doing so much in their local communities, from Sunday school, evangelistic campaigns, to youth programs. So, the initiative here was to come alongside some of the things that they’re doing already.

Of course, you keep caring for your kids, character building programs, Bible studies. You’re reaching out, trying to change your community for Christ. But for this particular year in discipleship, we’re focusing in four key areas that they’re most likely doing already… Maybe they could develop deeper. Maybe they could go higher in their ask for God, in their expectations.

- SERVE - DISCIPLE...” continued on page 2

Family-Run Food Drive Impacts Community for 16th Year

BY BRAD ROWLAND

James “Bucky” Berry became acquainted with The Salvation Army at an early age, and for more than 45 years he has strived to give back to the community through a long-standing partnership with the organization in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Berry is the founder of the Brent Berry Family Food Drive, which is operating in its 16th year, and the drive’s impact on Harrisonburg and Rockingham County is immeasurable.

“My family was poor growing up, and that is how I got to know The Salvation Army,” Berry said. “The Salvation Army provided for our family: food on the table, clothes under the tree, presents for me when I was a small child.”

Berry was committed to helping The Salvation Army long before launching the drive. He served as a volunteer bell-ringer across three decades, and while the drive is expressly a family endeavor for Berry, he intentionally partnered with The Salvation Army to enhance its impact.

“The Salvation Army’s been around Harrisonburg for almost 100 years, and their slogan is ‘Doing the Most Good,’” said Berry. “I believe in giving back to the community. The Army helped “Food Drive...” continued on page 5

“LOVE

Bucky Berry along with his son, Brent, have served their community for 16 years through their family’s food drive.

Commissioner Donna: We don’t need another program, what we need is to be The Salvation Army. We have everything we need… We just need to grab ahold of it and move forward in 2024. The time is now.

Why are we doing this?

Commissioner Donna: We need to be moving. There’s an urgency. There are young people who are lost. They don’t know which way is right. There are little children who are looking at us. There are single mothers. There are fathers who are raising children on their own. There are grandparents who are tired. And there’s this urgency that I just feel as a Salvation Army, we can’t retreat. We have to lean in as much as we can… No more waiting.

Commissioner Kelly: That we bring people into a working and living and loving relationship with Jesus, that is the most critical thing. Then how they work that out is up to them. The Bible certainly gives some direction: that we should assemble together, that we should be accountable to one another, and being disciples.

Commissioner Donna: I love seeing what the corps are doing this time of year as we launch out into a new beginning. I’m really counting on our officers. I’m counting on our local leaders. One of the priorities is leadership development, and everyone has a part to play. That is my heart as well, our heart, that everyone would find their place. That they would find their avenue of ministry, whatever that might look like.

LOVE – SERVE – DISCIPLE MONTHLY PODCAST

To hear the full conversation, join Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart and Majors Matt and Jamie Satterlee on this month’s episode of the LOVE – SERVE – DISCIPLE podcast as they dive into the Territorial Priorities and what they mean for you.

To listen, visit linktr.ee/loveservedisciple Find additional resources and more about each month’s guests at allforjesus.salvationarmysouth.org

Commissioner Kelly: We’re trying to give them some extra energy and a boost in those areas that are priorities for this year.

Commissioner Donna: 2024, I believe, will be the brightest year. Our heart’s desire is that men and women, boys and girls, find Jesus, that they find their place in our Army.

Who should be involved in this?

Commissioner Donna: The corps officers are our heroes. It’s what motivates me, seeing officers and volunteers coming together, board members, auxiliaries, and they unite together to bring that hope and to bring that helping hand to families that are in need.

And I don’t think we can discount our employees. They have such a significant part to play in our Army. I pray that they get ahold of this as well, that they can embrace the priorities, and that they can just feel like it’s not something distant, but it’s part of what they’re called to as well.

What do we do?

Commissioner Kelly: Discipling and discipleship start with a circle that I draw around my own feet. What I’m calling us all to is before we start off on anything, start with you. Start with me. Start with us. How can I disciple a community if I, myself, am not a disciple? How can I care and love for people if I don’t first care and love myself? … It starts with me.

Is there a new initiative? Is there something that another church is doing? Is The Salvation Army in El Paso doing something that The Salvation Army in Miami would like to replicate? So, as we bring more attention to those areas through the Southern Spirit, through podcasts, through videos and the various ways that we can communicate that need and that particular strength, other corps can come alongside and use that to their advantage.

The territorial events will be focused on these areas, so there’ll be some energy in those places for things that they’re already doing. In addition to that, as we know in our territory, we have so many amazing resources available, and they all seem to fall in these categories that we’re speaking of. So, we’re trying to get those into a lane where they’re easier to find and easier to access.

We’re all familiar with the ‘just do it’ scenario, but I would add to that, ‘just say it,’ because how can I be a witness if I don’t also communicate it with love and compassion?

We love and serve because of who we are in Christ, but we also speak about it and share because people need to hear those words: that there is hope, there is future, there is eternity, and there is today. And Jesus is in and amongst all of it.

What’s next? It’s pretty simple: just do it and just say it. Commissioner Donna: And be excited about it!

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

Published by The Salvation Army USA Southern Territory 1424 Northeast Expressway Atlanta, GA 30329 USA

Phone: (404) 728-1300

Email: kristin.mudge@uss.salvationarmy.org

http://southernspiritonline.org

All materials are copyright of The Salvation Army USA Southern Territory and cannot be reproduced without permission.

For further information or to donate, please visit: www.uss.salvationarmy.org

Subscriptions are available at a rate of $10 per year. Submit check and particulars to the editor-in-chief.

EQUIP Conference 2024

Registration open January 17-March 20 at youthdownsouth.org

EQUIP is a biannual conference for leadership training in youth ministry. For EQUIP 2024, we will also partner with the Mission, Evangelism, and Cultural Ministries Department to offer practical instruction in ministry and local officer training.

Join us this year to learn more about how to love, serve, and disciple the next generation!

“LOVE - SERVE - DISCIPLE...” continued from page 1

Gainesville, Georgia Reopens Shelter to the Community

BY DON FELICE

In a heartwarming ceremony, The Salvation Army of Gainesville, Georgia, a steadfast pillar of support since 1928, reopened its shelter doors after a three-month renovation respite, marking a significant milestone in the community’s journey of compassion and support. The Gainesville shelter, a haven for those in need that can house more than 50 people, is one of only a few shelters in the Gainesville-Hall County area. The thoughtful renovations and upgrades have transformed it into an even more welcoming space for those facing homelessness and adversity.

The goal of the renovations was not just to provide a safe place with a roof over people’s

heads but to create a space that fosters dignity, warmth, and a sense of community.

Major Alejandro Castillo, corps officer of the Gainesville Corps, expressed his excitement about the reopening. “This isn’t just about renovated walls and facilities; it’s about rebuilding lives. Our community deserves a place where individuals facing hardships can find not only shelter but also hope and support.”

The reopening of the shelter is not only a testament to the dedication of The Salvation Army in Gainesville but also a powerful reflection of the community’s commitment to supporting and uplifting its most vulnerable members. Local businesses, volunteers, and donors came together to celebrate the shelter’s opening and to focus on ensuring the shelter’s success.

Addressing The Salvation Army and the gathered crowd, Gainesville City Mayor Sam Couvillion remarked, “Homelessness is a passion of mine. I want to try to help to be part of the solution. You all are a very important part of that solution, and I thank you for all you do.”

Major Castillo also expressed his gratitude to those gathered for the reopening celebration stating,

“We are immensely grateful for the outpouring of support we’ve received from the community and our donors. We truly cannot do the good work we do without the generous support of the Gainesville community and our donors who provide the necessary resources for us to serve those in need.”

The shelter is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a hub for comprehensive support services. Alongside a safe and warm environment, the shelter provides counseling, job placement assistance, and educational programs, empowering individuals on their journey to self-sufficiency.

“We believe in addressing the root causes of homelessness and providing holistic support,” explained Major Castillo. “The reopening allows us to expand our programs, ensuring that individuals not only find immediate relief but also the tools they need to begin to rebuild their lives.”

As the doors swing open once again, the Gainesville Salvation Army shelter stands as a beacon of hope, symbolizing a renewed commitment to the well-being of the community’s most vulnerable members. In this new chapter, the community of Gainesville can have confidence in knowing that they have a safe sanctuary built on compassion, unity, and unwavering support, offering not just a bed for the night to those in need but a pathway to a brighter future.

Greater Charlotte Receives $3.75 Million from Bezos Day 1 Families Fund

BY BRENT RINEHART

The Salvation Army of Greater Charlotte, a leader in providing solutions for families experiencing homelessness through its Center of Hope shelter and housing programs, has received a $3.75 million grant from the Bezos Day 1 Families Fund. Grants from the fund founded by billionaire Jeff Bezos are annually awarded to organizations doing compassionate, needle-moving work to help families experiencing homelessness secure housing and achieve stability. This grant will build on the $5 million the Day 1 Families Fund awarded The Salvation Army of Greater Charlotte in 2018.

“The overarching goal of our work is that family homelessness in Charlotte should be rare, brief and non-recurring,” said Major Jason Burns, area commander for The Salvation Army of Greater Charlotte. “This investment from the Day 1 Families Fund will allow us to expedite our growth plans and impact even more families in need in our community, reaching them at or before the point of crisis and helping them to find stability.”

This one-time, uniquely flexible grant will support The Salvation Army of Greater Charlotte in serving as a critical lifeline to families experiencing homelessness, who represent more than a quarter of the homeless population nationally. The plan is to use the grant to expand diversion and outreach programs, grow counseling and employment services, and create a flexible fund for short-term assistance. In addition, funds will help to renovate a recently purchased hotel now called Booth Commons, a non-congregate shelter program with individual efficiency units able to house different family makeups.

Several Salvation Army corps and area commands have been recipients of this compassionate grant since its creation in 2018. Additional and past Southern Territorial recipients include:

2023: Fort Myers Area Command Fort Myers, FL ($2.5m)

2020: Austin Area Command Austin, TX ($2.5m)

2018: Charlotte Center of Hope Charlotte, NC ($5m)

Greater Houston Houston, TX ($5m)

People Magazine picked up this story, speaking with Deronda Metz, director of social services for the Charlotte Center of Hope. “What a great commitment,” Deronda said about receiving the grant. “What a great way to invest your funds, making sure that somebody have a basic need and something so important as a roof and shelter over their head.”

Deronda told People that some of the funds from the original grant in 2018 went toward opening a Boys and Girls Club within the Center of Hope, which will now be able to expand to include a teen center. “What we do with our children that are homeless is vital and very important.” The $5

million received in 2018 also allowed the Army to hire two case managers for the Center of Hope “to help us decrease the time that people were in shelter,” Deronda explained. “Those flexible dollars really helped us to be able to raise the rate that we were moving people out of housing.”

For more information on the Bezos Day 1 Families Fund and past recipients, visit www. BezosDayOneFund.org/Day1FamiliesFund.

Deronda Metz accepts the Social Services National Team Award for the Charlotte, NC Area Command at The Salvation Army’s Better Together Conference in 2023.

Photo Credit: Don Felice

Photo Credit: Don Felice

General Lyndon Buckingham sends his greetings and a message to The Salvation Army for the New Year. SCAN THE QR CODE TO WATCH.

Boys & Girls Club Pilots Educational Anti-Human Trafficking Program

BY KRISTIN MUDGE

Anti-human trafficking can be an uncomfortable topic. We have all seen trafficking situations in movies or on the news, but we tend to feel like it is something far away. Things like that just don’t happen in my community, to people I know.

But that is simply not true. In fact, the United States of America is one of the top buyers within the sex industry, meaning many people from around the world who are trafficked for sex (and for labor) end up right here in our communities.

The Prevention Project was created to start tackling this complicated issue through a demographic that can truly make an impact.

According to their website, prevention-project.org, “The Prevention Project program was born out of a desire to prevent trafficking by empowering youth to protect themselves and others through education and by equipping the next generation of leaders to build safer communities.” The program consists of four to six weekly lessons that teach middle or high-school youth what human trafficking is, provide them with the tools to recognize it and protect themselves, and inspire them to take action in their communities.

Sheena Evans, territorial services coordinator for anti-human trafficking, realized that the Prevention Project has potential to generate great change in the communities served by The Salvation Army and determined that our Boys and Girls Clubs are a perfect place to begin this educational program. “My goal is to really equip the kids in our communities,” Sheena shared. “Essentially, I want to make it undesirable for a trafficker to dwell

in the communities in each division. One way you do that is by making everyone everywhere aware of their tactics, strategy, and presence.” Working closely with Mark Jeffrey, territorial director of Boys and Girls Clubs, it was determined that the Atlanta Peachcrest Boys and Girls Club (BGC) should be the location for the pilot program before looking at launching across the territory.

Recognizing that this is a complicated and often uncomfortable topic, the leaders at the Peachcrest BGC were very intentional when informing parents and guardians about the program. Jordan Sanders, youth development professional at the Peachcrest BGC, shared that they were unsure if parents would be willing to allow their children to participate due to the nature of the subject matter. But after notifying them about the program, 100 percent of the parents decided to allow their children to participate. “The parents were all saying, ‘Oh, that’s a good thing. That’s a good program.’”

After a tricky start due to scheduling issues with school events, they decided to teach just the middle school track for now, completing four weeks of lessons and discussion with the boys and girls split into separate classes for the more delicate topics.

One of the girls in the program commented, “I knew about human trafficking, but I never knew that there were different kinds of trafficking.” Another said, “I learned today that human trafficking can happen to any gender – girl, boy, non-binary, anything.”

Overall, the youth had meaningful discussions and learned skills to recognize and un -

derstand red flags for trafficking behavior. They walked through lessons like “Who I Am & Why it Matters” and took home essential online safety material to engage further with their parents or guardians.

“Our goal is to continue educating the youth in our communities through the Prevention Project and other well-vetted human trafficking awareness and education curricula,” Sheena explained. “I hope to bring this curriculum to the Peachcrest Boys and Girls Club high schoolers this summer and weigh the outcomes of our time with them. After this assessment, we will continue to work towards rolling out human trafficking and awareness education throughout the territory.”

Women’s Auxiliary Raises Funds and Awareness for Anti-Human Trafficking Efforts

BY MAJOR DEEANN GLICK

“Some of my best men are women,” the founder of The Salvation Army, General William Booth, famously said. I love that our founders were eccentric and passionate. They were visionaries and progressive thinkers. They saw the needs, the injustices, the individual, and they worked to make a difference in lives and in society.

It all started with a conversation over a cup of coffee. Sitting across the table from a woman who loves The Salvation Army and a staff member, we asked, “How can we get more women involved with Women’s Auxiliary who have a passion to make a difference?” We know women these days

are incredibly involved in their families, their businesses, and in their communities. What would bring them together to advocate awareness to our community about the complex issue of human trafficking?

The Salvation Army in central Maryland has a unique ministry called Catherine’s Cottage. It’s an anti-human trafficking ministry. It is a safe home, a place of rest. A place where survivors can get the help they need to begin their long journey on the road to healing.

When I shared with our friend about Catherine’s Cottage, you could see the gears in her mind begin to turn with ideas about not only raising awareness of human trafficking but helping to raise funds to maintain this beautiful ministry for the survivors. She began calling her girlfriends and putting together a wonderful event. They worked right alongside our staff and planned a wonderful evening.

Female entrepreneurs from the area offered items from their businesses as special prizes or treats to taste. Much of the evening was fellowship and wonderful conversations. That night I shared about the beginning of The Salvation Army, our founders, and where The Salvation Army is now. I shared about human trafficking and the damage that it causes. I also shared about Catherine’s Cottage and the difference we make in the lives of those who walk through our doors.

Our special guest, Major Sarah Nelson, divisional secretary for program and women’s ministries for the Potomac Division, shared her story. Her history. She shared how an officer of The Salvation Army listened to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and visited a very dysfunctional home.

Because of that visit, a whole generation was changed through the HOPE that was shared.

The night ended with much excitement, a lot of questions, and many new opportunities to share about anti-human trafficking efforts and Catherine’s Cottage. Funds were raised, and the membership of the Women’s Auxiliary of Central Maryland grew. Most importantly, something was ignited in the women. They caught the vision and passion of our founders. They are ready to make a difference in lives that may have been turned away in the past. They are ready to share HOPE.

The Peachcrest BGC middle school boys discuss a human trafficking story, coming to the understanding that traffickers target boys as well as girls.

Central Maryland Women’s Auxiliary members and friends gathered to raise funds and learn more about The Salvation Army’s important work with human trafficking survivors.

Major Deeann Glick explains the mission and ministry of the unique Catherine’s Cottage program, raising awareness for anti-human trafficking work in central Maryland.

“Food Drive...” continued from page 1

me, and I believe in returning the favor to the citizens of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County.”

Bucky is the founder of the drive, and his son Brent, for whom the drive is named, works alongside him on a daily basis. This year’s drive began in November and runs through January 5, 2024, when the donations collected across the region will be packaged and transported to The Salvation Army’s Harrisonburg Corps for distribution in its food pantry.

The drive partners with Bridgewater Foods, a local grocery store, including a bus parked at the store for drop-offs between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. each day during the drive. In addition, two other full-time drop-off locations are established for 2023, and other community partners are invested in the program. That includes Harrisonburg City Public Schools, which also serve as drop-off locations, and Berry has long-standing alliances with local law enforcement and first responders. Notable among them is Broadway Chief of Police Doug Miller, who helps to coordinate additional locations each year.

“Our overall goal is to stop hunger in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County,” Berry said. “There are people sleeping on the street, and we want to help them. If someone comes off the street and needs food, The Salvation Army is able to help them, and part of that comes from this drive. The Bible says if you help someone out, it comes back twenty-fold. I’m a firm believer that if you help your fellow citizen, the Lord sees what you do and what’s in your heart.”

“Catherine Booth said, ‘There is no reward equal to that of doing the most good to the most people in the most need,’” said Lt. Douglas Ingold, corps officer in Harrisonburg. “The Brent

NEWS BRIEFS

• Renowned philanthropist and online creator MrBeast, also known as Jimmy Donaldson, recently partnered with Safeway on a promotion to benefit The Salvation Army of Greenville, North Carolina. MrBeast challenged a contestant to see how many days he could live inside a Safeway grocery store, and for each day, the man would earn $10,000. However, the wrinkle was that the individual must also choose $10,000 worth of products to donate to local charities. This resulted in more than $450,000 worth of groceries, paper goods, electronics, and other products being donated to local nonprofits, including The Salvation Army, Feeding America, Boys & Girls Club of Wayne County, and more.

• The Salvation Army of Lawton, Oklahoma recently conducted a graduation for six individuals who completed the “Bridges Out Of Poverty” program. The focus of the program is breaking the cycle of poverty, with dedicated instruction on work procurement, budgeting, and resource collection. The Salvation Army holds two program sessions each year, running for 12 weeks each, and graduates are encouraged to return for continued assistance. It is the only such program operating in this fashion in the Lawton area.

• In Richmond, Virginia, a new family shelter opened in early December, and this expansion coincided with a new, long-term home for the city’s cold-weather shelter in the Northside area. A grand opening was held featuring Mayor Levar Stoney and members of the Richmond City Council alongside The Salvation Army and HomeAgain. The Salvation Army’s local facility will serve as the city’s primary inclement weather shelter and operate throughout the year, both as a shelter and as a starting point for the city’s Greater Richmond Continuum of Care services network. In addition, the city is providing funding to The Salvation Army for a Center of Hope expansion that will add 100 beds to the organization’s capacity in the region.

Berry Food Drive makes it possible for us to follow in her footsteps, as Lt. Sharon (Ingold) and I are devoted to helping people in these trying times.”

Berry and his family were recently honored by Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, who presented a Volunteerism and Community Service Award in November. This distinction recognized Berry’s length of service and the combined donation of more than $2 million in food and time to feed those in the community through partnership with The Salvation Army. “The resilience, generosity, and commitment of these volunteers exemplifies the best of Virginia,” said Governor Youngkin.

The goal for 2023 is to raise $80,000 worth of products after exceeding the stated $65,000 goal in 2022. Berry notes that he believes he “will see $100,000 in a year at some point,” but the impact of the work stretches well beyond the financial numbers. The Salvation Army’s food pantry in Harrisonburg is sustained for approximately six months each year simply from the food collected by the drive, and the public awareness of Berry’s work undeniably aids in the Army’s overarching mission to meet human need in His name without discrimination.

“When we arrived in Harrisonburg... we learned this city is known as the ‘friendly city,’ and

are amazingly friendly. Yet, they are still facing the same economic difficulties as everybody else. So, we are very grateful for all donations, including those that arrive through this amazing food drive. I am also aware that, sometimes, the food we give out is the only food a family has to feed their family. The impact is immeasurable.”

“I’ve met a lot of people that can talk the talk but can’t walk the walk. I can do both,” said Berry. “When I set my mind to something, I carry the mission out. In April, I had a major heart issue, and I’m lucky to be even doing the drive this year. The bottom line is that I will be doing the drive until I meet the Lord. As long as The Salvation Army is here, we’re going to support them and support the Harrisonburg and Rockingham Coun -

Cozy Up with Campfire Mugs

The Berry family recently received a Volunteerism and Community Service Award from the Governor of Virginia for their combined donation of over $2 million in food and time given to feed those in need through their partnership with The Salvation Army.

Miracle in Myanmar

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

Recently, Colonel Hary Haran, territorial commander of the Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand Territory had a brief visit in Atlanta. At that time, Lt. Colonel Allen Satterlee had a chance to talk with him about the challenges and advances of The Salvation Army’s work in the country of Myanmar.

Satterlee: We have been aware of the military junta (a committee of military leaders) running Myanmar for some time. But there is also some opposition to it. What have you observed in your travels there?

Colonel Haran: In the city areas, in the early stage there were a lot of protests, lives taken, while the military brought that under control. But in the rural area, it is more under the control of what they call the People’s Defense Force (PDF), which is not recognized by the military government. The military junta is fighting against them. The people in the rural area are caught in the crossfire. They have to run away from their villages, abandoning everything. They hide in the forest, try to return to their village to see if it is safe. What is painful is they (the military government) are also attacking schools because they feel that this PDF force is hiding among the young people. So, they couldn’t care less, and they just bomb these places. I heard close to 800 kids died when they bombed some school areas. This is what the villages are going through.

Satterlee: How has The Salvation Army been affected?

Colonel Haran: We have been operating in Myanmar since 1915. So far, we are also being very careful not to be politically involved in any way but to concentrate on our mission by serving suffering humanity. At the same time, we make friends with local authorities. We build relationships with them by inviting them to any celebrations. Christmas is the best time. They never miss our Christmas events and sometimes invite themselves. It warms their hearts to witness what we are doing in the homes serving the kids.

There is a sharp difference in what is happening in the city areas and the rural areas. In the city areas, in all travelling outside, I have to be in civilian clothing because the concern is once you are in uniform, it will create curiosity among the military government of watching and knowing what is going on. They can’t take chances because there are fights going on, and they are not too sure who will attack the military government. They are always on the lookout. To be safe, we want to be sensitive. Again, me coming from a foreign country, I’ve got to be very careful with our peo -

ple there and not create any kind of problem for them. When we are indoors, within our own complex, we safely wear the uniform and serve God. But when we are out of the complex, we don’t want to attract any unnecessary attention.

The Salvation Army’s work is not hindered despite whatever is going on. In the countryside when there is conflict, the corps officers do their best to provide pastoral care, provide them food parcels where possible. At the same time, they’re conducting homeschooling as well, because kids can’t go to school. They occupy the kids with study games.

Satterlee: Has this hindered The Salvation Army’s growth?

Colonel Haran: The Salvation Army is abso -

lutely growing. Junior soldiers are being enrolled. Corps Cadets are being discipled. Women’s ministry is flourishing with many women coming into meetings, receiving the peace of God. Women are also learning about self-sustainability despite the crisis. They want the mission to be carried out. Obviously, you need God’s provision, God’s support through money. They are finding the ways and means for what they can do. The women’s ministry is also strong in supporting the corps and developing corps ministries. Close to 200 soldiers have been enrolled despite the crisis there. That’s heartwarming. You see the hand of God upon His people, saving souls.

Satterlee: You shared that Myanmar has its own training college. Recently you shared you

New lieutenants don flags on the day of their Commissioning, supported by the territorial commander, regional officers, and training staff. Myanmar operates its own training college.

The territory operates an additional one in Singapore.

The Dallah Corps people shout a collective “Hallelujah!” as their new building is dedicated.

Dallah is across the river from Yangon, the capital of Myanmar. The new building was delayed because of shortages in building supplies and difficulty in obtaining permission from the government to build.

Children pose for the camera following the Easter service. The yellow paste on their cheeks, called Thanakha, is used in Myanmar to help cool them.

The girls who stay at The Salvation Army Yangon Girls Home pose with leaders for a quick picture.

were able to travel there to commission the cadets, but even that was difficult. What happened?

Colonel Haran: I was given the privilege to commission eight cadets in Myanmar. It all started at the beginning of April (2023). Initially, when I applied for the visa, it was turned down. I went on my knees, and I asked God, “Is it Your will for me to be there personally to commission the cadets?” The very next day I received a text that my visa was being reviewed again. It was approved. It was a clear indication that it was the will of God for me to be there personally in Myanmar. Although my faith was strong in Christ, I was doubtful that I would be getting the visa. It was a miracle for me. I believe God opened the door.

When I arrived at the airport, I realized there were only two international visitors, including me. I had this little fear as I approached the immigration officers. I was wondering what kind of questions they would ask and how to respond to them. Surprisingly, at the immigration counter not a single question was asked. They gave me entry. I got my passport and rushed out immediately.

I had a second stage where I had to go through customs with my luggage which was full of uniform trimming and Christian materials. I took the opportunity to bring as much as possible. Here I was, walking through customs, thinking that they were going to ask me to open up the bags. But again, I was given the green light to move on without even opening any of my bags. That was another miracle. I was the first one to get out of the airport. I went on my knees to thank God for this.

Satterlee: What happened next?

Colonel Haran: Moving further into Myanmar, I saw at every corner of the road sentry posts set up, military standing all over the place, some even pointing guns at their own local residents. It’s that scary. But I was never stopped. I reached my room, and there I prepared. I had the privilege of conducting the covenant service for the cadets and later the commissioning. I also had the privilege of preaching on Good Friday. I led the service and preached on Easter Sunday. It was a beautiful celebration of new life that God has given us.

It was so emotional being with the people. I wholeheartedly thanked God because I could see their feelings. Being among them and celebrating Easter was beautiful. God also opened the door for me to be part of a marriage and to preach at that ceremony. We dedicated two new corps buildings. One of the buildings interestingly was located in an area surrounded by retired military officers. Yet I sensed the peace and calmness of God as we dedicated the building. We believe God loves everyone, and God wants us to reach to all these people with His love. Not a single time was I confronted by any military man. I witnessed soldiers stopping locals, scanning through their cell phones to see what is going on, but I never was. Obviously, there were times where you could see the military eye on me, but again, I was covered. God was my refuge. He brought me there to carry out the mission, and He brought me back to Singapore safely. What more could I ask for than to look up to Him? And thanks, glory, and honor be to Jesus!

Satterlee: What would you like Salvationists in the Southern Territory to understand about Myanmar?

Colonel Haran: What I want people to understand about the Salvationists of Myanmar is that they live simple so that others can simply live. That’s the motto for them. I just heard them say to me when I was there that it’s a blessing to be poor. Even in that poverty you see the richness of faith in God. Despite the poverty there, their faith is strong. Whatever the circumstances are, they are very strong people with their willpower. Never underestimate them. If their faith is not strong, you find that in a crisis like this, they can easily give up and surrender. Christianity is growing in Myanmar. They believe very strongly that God will deliver them. In all circumstances, they will stand tall for God.

We are grateful to the international Army, and more so for the American territories, the USA Southern Territory, because for many years, since 1915 up to today, we have been blessed by this territory, providing us with many mission support projects. There are hundreds of wells to draw water that have been built throughout Myanmar. Thousands of people who were suffering have been served soup and soap for many years, and the work is still continuing. Although the international Army is far away, they are near with the great love of God in our territory. I want to express thanks to this territory for all the beautiful support that has been given thus far. Hopefully Myanmar will open up to the world and we can have international visitors come to showcase the glory of God in Myanmar.

Colonel Haran cuts the ribbon at the dedication of the Lae Daung Kan Corps, surrounded by the officer and the corps people. This is the corps referred to in the interview that is in an area of retired military.

The territorial commander, regional officers, district officers, and corps officers stand in front of the newly dedicated Lae Daung Kan Corps building.

The Myanmar Region is comprised of five districts. Here all the district officers gather at RHQ to meet with the territorial commander for a strategic planning meeting.

BY KRISTIN MUDGE

The Difference a Name Makes Goals for the New Year

People all over the world see the new year as a chance to make changes, have a fresh start, forge new habits, or leave behind bad attitudes or memories in order to become a better, more fulfilled version of themselves. And it certainly is a good mile marker by which to set those things in motion. But for some, like me, a new year is a reminder to hold on to something rather than letting go. Something precious and heartbreaking.

Holidays can be a difficult time for families who have experienced the loss of a loved one, and that holds true for my family as well. We lost my mother unexpectedly in a car crash on January 9, 2019, and life will never be the same again. We feel the vacuum left without her every time we gather for a holiday, on every birthday, on every grandparents’ day at daycare, and especially at every new year.

Before that January morning, I would usually try to set some sort of New Year’s goal for myself: I want to exercise every day; I should try to eat better; I should read my Bible more often. But since losing my mom, my new year goals, along

with many other parts of my life, have shifted. I want to recall more memories from my childhood. I want to tell my son more stories about his Nana Ruth. I want to call my dad and my siblings more often. I want to hold onto the beautiful shining life my mother led, making her a deeper part of me, and becoming a better person because of who she was.

My mother was a prayer warrior. She loved family and friends fiercely. She lived with a childlike faith, speaking to God just as easily as she spoke with us. Her enthusiasm for life was infectious. She raised five children, running a household of seven with just my dad’s income as a Methodist pastor. She was generous to a fault. Her creativity and passion flooded out, poured into programs, ministry, and people. She always made sure we knew we were loved and prayed for every day. This new year, my goal is to hold even more dearly onto the memories of my mom, and to become a little more like her every day.

If you have already made your new year’s resolution, I pray that you stick with it and use it to become a healthier version of your already beautiful self. And if you’ve lost a loved one, I pray that you find peace and hope in your memories of them. And maybe this year you can choose to hold on, instead of letting go.

Jumping Out of a Perfectly Good Airplane

BY DR. STEVE KELLNER

During World War I, and just a few years after the Wright brothers first flew at Kitty Hawk, military services around the world started experimenting with soldiers parachuting out of airplanes. Man had dreamed of flying for millennia, and just when he got off the ground it was time to jump out of the plane!

The idea made perfect sense militarily. Instead of having to fight their way into enemy territory, paratroopers could drop in behind the lines, often without the enemy even knowing they were there. Some of the most famous units in the U.S. Army, like the 82nd Airborne and the 101st Airborne, made their reputations doing just that as part of the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944. The element of surprise, doing the unexpected, was the secret to their success.

But there were many obstacles to overcome in creating these airborne units. Paratroopers had to travel light, landing without heavy weapons and with just a couple of days’ rations. The D-Day jumps were made at night, so they couldn’t see the landing zone they were trying to hit. Some of the D-Day paratroopers did not achieve surprise and took enemy fire as they floated down. And we can’t forget the well-founded fear that their

chutes wouldn’t open, or that most of the soldiers had never flown before. That’s right, those training to become the first paratroopers jumped out of the very first airplane they ever flew on!

It can be comfortable for Salvationists to stay seated in a perfectly good airplane as well. We like our corps to operate a certain way, to serve in the same way we always have, and we don’t like the disruption of trying new ways of doing things. But sometimes we need to jump out of the plane, do something unexpected, and take the enemy by surprise.

The obstacles to doing this are like what faced the first airborne paratroopers. We’ll have to travel light, not hang on too tightly to what we know and love, as the disciples had to do when Jesus sent them out for the first time on their own with no money, no extra cloak or sandals, no bag for the journey. We’ll be in the dark about how the new direction will turn out, there being no guarantee of success. And Satan’s forces will certainly take some shots at us once the element of surprise is lost, especially if we are expanding the Kingdom.

Finally, like Peter stepping out of the boat to go to Jesus, we’ll have to trust the Lord that the chute will open when we jump. So, if you feel the Holy Spirit urging you to jump out of the plane into a new ministry or a new way of doing the ministry you’re already in, close your eyes (in prayer), yell “Geronimo!” and… jump.

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

A while ago I bought a plain sweatshirt from Walmart for the princely sum of $15. It was plain but serviceable. It kept me warm and was comfortable, doing all that a sweatshirt should do, even if it was a bit boring to look at. But not many people want or wear plain sweatshirts or T-shirts. They want to have something written on them.

But you can’t have just anything written on them. For example, when our children were younger, they had shirts that all their classmates signed. They were quite happy with them, but they were a royal mess to look at. When it came time to give them away to the ARC, I’m sure the sorter threw them right into the bin of stuff to be recycled into paper napkins. No mother shopping in the thrift store would want to put their little darling in a shirt with someone else’s classmates’ names plastered all over it. While it is good to have something written on shirts, it has to be the right thing.

I just looked up what a sweatshirt like my Walmart special would cost if it included my favorite college team’s name on it. Over three times as much. Having the right name on it is what makes the sweatshirt more valuable. The name makes the difference.

As I walked around the mall thinking about what a difference the name makes, I thought about what makes my life of any worth. In and of itself, it’s nothing at all. But I bear the name of Jesus, and suddenly this unremarkable material has value because of that name. When Joseph was told that Mary was to bear the Son of God, he was instructed, “you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). And we who are saved from our sins bear His name. We who had no value have had value conveyed to us. When this life’s last breath is taken and we draw our first breath in eternity, it is that name upon us that will allow us to stand in God’s presence. Because He has saved us from our sins.

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

WE ARE AN ARMY!

Art Exists to Share God’s Story

BY BETHANY FARRELL

Worship and art have been intrinsically intertwined since the beginning of time. The Bible introduces God with two identifying characteristics: He was there in the beginning, and He is a creator. The rest of the Good Book gives us a taste of what His imagination and creativity brought to life (in summary – everything), and artists have spent the rest of time trying to capture that creativity in the form of stained glass, paintings, poetry, song, dance, photographs, tapestries, concertos, etc. Humans are drawn to art and creativity because we are fashioned in the likeness of the ultimate Creator.

The use of art in worship has changed over time, but it has always been present. In the building of His temple in Exodus 31, God was intentional about prioritizing beauty – not only utilizing artists but blessing them with the gift of His Spirit. King David danced with all his might before the Lord, showing full surrender in his praise. When Jesus walked on earth, He ministered through parables, introducing people to the ways of His kingdom with imagery and short stories. There is evidence of stained-glass windows adorning churches as early as the 7th century, making it possible for even the illiterate congregants to become familiar with Bible stories. If you look closely, you will find innumerable examples of how artists throughout time have used their gifts to bring people into a closer relationship with God – to tell His story, and to tell it beautifully.

In a similar fashion, the arts in The Salvation Army Southern Territory have been an ever-evolving presence in worship. After decades of timbrels, theater troupes, musicals, and the rogue dance or two, the first Territorial Creative Arts Ensemble (TCAE) was established in 2007 under the leadership of Roberta Simmons-Smith. This flagship team of eight singers/actors/dancers met three times a year for ministry weekends around the territory, and to support Commissioning events with artistic offerings. TCAE often traveled with the Territorial Band and Songsters (now Southern Staff Band and Southern Staff Songsters) and would also tackle their own ministry weekends presenting full-length plays and programs. This ensemble built great momentum for the arts across the territory, and the presence of scripts, dances, and other creative elements became a well-accepted standard in programming.

In 2022, after observing the development of the arts and artists across the territory, Territorial Creative Arts Director Bethany Farrell rebranded this ensemble as the Territorial Arts Ministries (TAM) Team, adjusting the vision to meet the needs of both the artists and the field. Today, the TAM Team roster boasts over twenty artists of various artforms, all with a passion for Jesus and a willingness to volunteer their time and talents in ministry to others. By expanding their forces, TAM is afforded the flexibility to meet a greater variety of requests throughout the year, sending out casts of two, twenty, or anything in between.

If you watch closely, you will find the TAM Team supporting four divisions and six events of all different sizes over the next several months. You might see them leading divisional rehearsals, creating videos for worship services, writing and sharing scripts and choreography, performing at a local event, or even painting on the Commissioning stage. There is no limit to their creativity because it is God-given and God-driven, and they are eager to explore where He leads them and how their ministry will continue to develop. Maybe He will lead them straight to you!

At the heart of it all, the TAM Team exists for the same reason that art itself exists – to share His story. He will always remain center stage. To God be the glory!

Camp

Photos courtesy of Territorial Arts Ministries

My Adventure in Japan

BY KE’OLANI PEREZ, SSC DELEGATE 2023

From the moment I stepped off the plane and into the Tokyo-Haneda International Airport, I felt ready for a summer of new experiences and challenges. I knew what I came to do was for the Lord, and I had to be prepared for anything.

Sleep-deprived and jet-lagged, my Salvationist Service Corps (SSC) team and I looked for our translator, Makato, who was there to meet us and take us to the Suginami Corps area. Upon arrival, we met a few officers who showed us to our living quarters, the female members of the team staying in officers’ housing and the one male staying in the training college dorm.

Our ministry began with a visit to New Hope Azabu, a community center run by The Salvation Army in Azubujuban. There, we played with the kids, told them about Jesus, and helped teach English. These early interactions with children really helped prepare us for what God had in store for the rest of the summer.

Our first Sunday in Japan, we were sent to the Ueno corps where we participated in the holiness meeting and ate lunch with the corps members. Afterward, we helped pack about one hundred lunches. I remember being amazed to see the order and speed with which all the members worked together. Once all the lunches were packed, we went out in the streets to give the food to the homeless. This was a new experience for me, and the amount of gratitude I saw that day helped fuel my spirit for the rest of the summer.

From Tokyo, we were sent to Hiroshima where we had fellowship with the corps members and led a children’s festival. We then visited a nursery where I learned how friendly children can be, but also how difficult a language barrier is. Later that night at a children’s home, we ate dinner with the kids, taught them a few songs and games, and told them the story of David and Goliath. It was extremely hard to leave when the night was over, especially when the children asked us to come back soon. I told them that I would be praying for them, and I still do, as I think of them often.

Next, we visited Osaka where we stayed in the Tenma Corps. We enjoyed time with the corps members, had meals and fellowship with them, played with the children, and gave our testimonies during the holiness meeting. After the service, we ate pizza made by the kids before leading a youth event with the corps children as well as kids from a nearby children’s home. We played games, sang songs, and told Bible stories before leaving to help prepare our dinner.

Dinner was an amazing time for us. We ate Japanese Korean Barbecue, and it was delicious! I enjoyed meeting officers and youth from the area. As we ate, we recounted stories to each other and shared our individual experiences from this summer and summers past.

Our next adventure took us to Sendai. The officers there, Lieutenants Manabe, were very sweet and accepting of us. They took us to visit a few elementary schools, and we also helped at the corps by doing a café church and participating in the holiness meeting. The thing I remember most from Sendai is the officers’ kids, Miki and Koki. They bonded with us so quickly and were eager to spend time with us. Koki’s energy helped us wake up every morning, and he was the reason we would laugh so often. Miki’s kind and loving spirit made Sendai feel more like home for all of us. This was particularly special as we had already been away from our home country and families for several weeks by this point. The two kids gave me memories that will last a lifetime. The Manabe family has truly become my second family.

We spent our last two weeks back in Tokyo. While at the Suginami corps, we helped run the café church during the week and led a kid’s festival where I oversaw the craft corner. It was challenging to lead a craft for these kids without a translator to help me. However, the kids’ reactions as they finished their craft needed no translation. I watched as they colored their crosses made of paper, smiling at their pure joy from completing their artistic task.

Our final location was Kyoto where we spent three days. The officers there took care of us with such kindness. Every night when we ate dinner, I felt as though we were sitting to eat as a family. One day, we had the opportunity to do street evangelism with a local missionary; it was so evident that God was working that day. One of our team members invited someone to come back to the corps to have dinner with us, and it ended up

being an amazing night of fellowship.

Japan was an eye-opening experience for me. I learned so much, and I have grown spiritually. The experience stretched me beyond my comfort zone as I did things I have never done before. I now have a great appreciation for Japanese culture, and I love the people there. I thank God for this summer, and I am so grateful for the people I had the opportunity to meet. A part of my heart will always remain with the people of Japan.

Photos courtesy of Ke’olani Perez

Southwest Pilot Helps Snack Pack Program ‘Take Off’

BY BY MAJOR FRANK DURACHER

Lauren Van Damme, a pilot for Southwest Airlines for 19 years, met The Salvation Army through the Angel Tree program in Columbia, South Carolina a few years ago. So impressed was she with the Army’s mission and ministry that she became a faithful member of the advisory board in Charleston where she presently serves as the board’s secretary.

But one program has proved to be especially near and dear to her heart. Volunteer coordinator Leslie Wilfong tells us, “Lauren was totally sold out for our Snack Pack Program.”

“She jumped right in with gusto,” marvels Captain Cathy Michels, Charleston Citadel corps officer.

The Snack Pack Program was initially adopted and tweaked from a similar program in place, operated by Sarah Gamble at the Charlotte Area Command.

“I attended a conference last year and met Sarah, and I asked her for suggestions to jazz up our program here in Charleston, and she told me about Snack Packs,” Leslie explains. Bringing the idea home to the Low Country (as southern counties in South Carolina are called), Leslie shared the program with Lauren.

The program involves supplying lunch bags with snack items for kids, high in protein and low in sugar. Attention is also given to avoiding products which may affect allergies in children, such as peanuts.

“I saw my role as offering to advisory board members a chance to commit as they can,” Lauren says. “I came up with a cost to fill about 150 bags at a time, and while some board members contributed money to buy the items, other board members bought and donated the items themselves,” such as Goldfish crackers or fruit juices.

“When I moved here to Charleston,” she adds, “I looked up The Army and began volunteering.” Not long after, she was asked to join the advisory board. She even recruited her stepdaughter to help pack the bags and write little messages of hope and encouragement to the children.

What is equally important to this nutritious program is the number of doors of opportunity opened to The Salvation Army in the three counties in this command.

In Charleston County, Leslie follows Charleston police patrol cars with the Salvation Army canteen throughout low-income neighborhoods. While police officers build positive relationships with the kids, she distributes the Snack Packs, knowing that it might be the only nutritious food they will have that day.

A monthly movie night is another byproduct—the county provides the projector and movie, while The Army provides the Boys & Girls Club gym and popcorn. They were also able to host a Trunk & Treat at Halloween for about 100 kids.

The Dorchester County government operates a swimming program, where children learn to swim and important life-saving techniques. The Army partners with them to attend the classes and distribute the Snack Packs when the kids leave for home.

So grateful were Dorchester officials to The Army for this partnership, this Christmas they volunteered in all aspects of the Angel Tree program for the county—including registration, adoptions, filling gift bags, and distribution.

In Berkeley County, school supplies and Snack Packs were given out at community events.

A monthly one-stop event is planned for the new year, where the partnership will be extended.

Yet another partnership emerged with The Palmetto Palace, a mobile pharmacy operated by Dr. Youlanda Gibbs and two medical assistants. The program is dedicated to helping mostly older people with chronic illnesses, so The Army adapted the Snack Pack program to meet the needs of elderly people waiting for their prescriptions to be filled. These senior citizens often don’t get the nutrition they need, or they simply haven’t eaten that day.

The Charleston-Berkeley Fire Department (located in an area on the two counties’ border) is another Snack Pack partner for events such as Fire Prevention Week.

“It takes just a few volunteers to stuff 150 bags,” Lauren says. “It’s actually a little easier with a handful of workers so we can concentrate on the assembly line, which typically takes a couple of hours.”

The next batch of Snack Pack bags are filled when supplies begin to run low and upcoming events approach. Packing volunteers range from Women’s Ministry members, Boys & Girls Club kids, and even a few residents from Leslie’s mom’s retirement community.

“Partnerships made through these little Snack Packs, as well as making sure these children get something nutritious to eat, makes this program a very worthwhile one—especially for a nominal investment,” Lauren exclaims.

It’s a win-win for everyone.

PROMOTED TO GLORY

Major Rosalie Chastain

Major Rosalie

Chastain was Promoted to Glory on November 29, 2023, at the age of 90.

Alma Rosalie

Biddix was born in Buncombe, NC on September 20, 1933, to parents William and Leora Biddix. She attended The Salvation Army in Asheville, NC, and on July 21, 1940, she accepted the Lord Jesus as her Savior. She was enrolled as a Junior Soldier on February 16, 1941, and later as a Senior Soldier on September 26, 1948.

She was very involved in the corps with Girl Guards and songsters and held many leadership positions.

God called her at an early age to become a Salvation Army officer. She recalled that in third grade when her teacher asked her what her ambitions were, she stood and said, “When I grow up, I want to be a Salvation Army officer.”

Rosalie entered the Evangeline Booth Training College in Atlanta in September of 1953, as a member of the Shepherds session of cadets. There she met fellow cadet Joseph (Jack) Chastain, whom she later married. She was commissioned with the rank of Lieutenant on June 7, 1954. Her first appointment was to assist in Wilson, NC. Rosalie and Jack married in 1955.

Lieutenants Jack and Rosalie Chastain went on to serve in Sumter, SC; and later they were responsible for opening the present-day corps and community center in Kinston, NC. Throughout the decades, they served as corps officers in Columbia, Charleston, and Greenwood, SC; and in North Carolina at Winston-Salem, Fayetteville, Salisbury, and Elizabeth City.

Majors Chastain retired in June 1999, after a combined total of over 76 years of active service.

Major Rosalie Chastain was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Major Jack Chastain, after 66 years of marriage.

She is survived by sons, David Michael (Betty) Chastain and Paul Keith Chastain; and granddaughter, Amanda (Scott) Graham, known to her family as “Mandy,” whom she raised. She also leaves three grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Salvationist Service Corps (SSC) is an exciting opportunity and privilege to learn more about the world, to learn more about yourself, and, most importantly, to serve God.

SSC is a shortterm mission project that affords Salvationist young adults an opportunity to engage in Christian service to people in other parts of the world and at home. A typical SSC team is made up of 6-8 active, uniform-wearing Salvationist young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 who have felt a call to service. To find more information and to apply for SSC 2024, visit youthdownsouth.org.

Lauren Van Damme readies another batch of Snack Packs for distribution in the Low Country’s three counties surrounding Charleston, South Carolina.

Christmas Highlights Across the Territory

Commissioner Donna Igleheart and Erin Napier, from the home renovation show “Home Town,” announced the launch of a limited-edition Christmas candle – Season of Hope – in the Laurel Mercantile Scent Library in Laurel, MS to raise national awareness for the work of The Salvation Army.

The ladies of the Women’s Auxiliary of The Salvation Army of Greater Charlotte, NC stuffed Christmas stockings with everyday necessities for women and children at the Center of Hope.

The United States Naval Academy’s 6th Company and friends adopted 540 Angels this season, continuing an over 30-year partnership with The Salvation Army in Annapolis, MD.

The world’s largest kettle made its parade debut in Orlando, FL in their Veteran’s Day parade. The Salvation Army Orlando Area Command teamed up with Valencia College who accepted the challenge of creating this massive kettle.

The Salvation Army of Clearwater/Upper Pinellas County in Florida hosted their 4th annual Home Sweet Gingerbread House decorating challenge.

The Salvation Army of Frankfort, KY welcomed Kentucky Governor Andy and First Lady Britainy Beshear to their Red Kettle Kickoff at the State Capitol. Joined by several other officials, Governor Beshear declared December as “Salvation Army Red Kettle Month” in Franklin and Anderson counties.

Miss Volunteer America 2024, Hannah Perrigin, teamed up with The Salvation Army in Meridian, MS to create a magical kettle kick-off.

The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office participated in the annual Parade of Kettles competition hosted by The Salvation Army San Antonio Area Command in San Antonio, TX, the Sheriff Office’s Mariachi band also performing at a Blessings on the River event on the River Walk.

60 local 6th grade students raised over $9,000 to adopt around 75 Angels through the Angel Tree program of The Salvation Army in Tulsa, OK.