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‘Uniformed

BY BRAD ROWLAND

MAJOR ANNE WESTMORELAND Following the Lord’s Leading

BY MAJOR FRANK DURACHER

The USA Southern Territory has become home for Major Anne Westmoreland —as much a home even as her native Denmark & Greenland Territory. A fourth-generation Salvationist, her parents remain faithful soldiers of the Copenhagen Temple Corps, and her grandparents and great-grandparents spent their lives in service to the Lord as Salvation Army officers.

But America and Denmark are not the only countries where this godly woman has left her indelible mark on His children. Beginning in Bangladesh, where she gave two years of ministry as a single young adult, Major Anne has since served as an officer in four countries (USA, Denmark, Republic of Georgia, and Ukraine), picking up a few languages along the way in which she is now either fluent (as in her native Danish and in the English she learned in grade school) or semi-fluent.

Her college years were spent attending N. Zahles Seminarium (now a part of University College Capital) in Copenhagen, where she earned the equivalent of a Bachelor of Education degree, with a double focus on mathematics and music. She then put that knowledge into practice teaching school for grades one through ten. While in Bangladesh, one of her many duties was to come alongside teachers at the school for girls and blind boys at the Army’s Children’s

Home, as well as teaching English Second Language classes for female Salvation Army officers. She was also heavily involved in the Sally Ann Project, which is today known as “Others.”

“Lt. Colonels Bo and Birgitte Brekke began Sally Ann in the mid-1990s while they were Bangladesh Command leaders,” Major Anne explains. “The program teaches women to make hand-crafted items, creating trade experience among women in poverty and commercial sexual exploitation. This also provides jobs to support a family. The Salvation Army there helps women learn a trade and guarantees that the artisans are paid for the products that they made.”

The Colonels Brekke saw in young Anne, then still a soldier and volunteer, the potential for an ideal Salvation Army officer. But Anne had already placed restrictions on this idea, among them her desire to be married someday while in that officership scenario.

“I knew my life would be spent for Jesus, but I just didn’t know how,” she says. Then a spiritual milepost was passed while attending the 1997 International Youth Congress in South Africa. The theme scripture was drawn from Revelation 3:8: "I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept My word and have not denied My name.” That verse left a powerful impression upon

“Westmoreland...” continued on page 11

Calling All Soldiers!

for Service’ Campaign Day January 23, 2025

Within the book “Called to be a Soldier: Exploring the Soldier's Covenant” published in 2020 through International Headquarters, it is noted that "Salvation Army uniform and Salvation Army-branded clothing are important reminders of our own promises, a sign of our identity, and a witness to the presence of Christ in our lives.” The text also refers to the concept of the uniform bringing visibility in the community, including “the opportunity to witness to people who are not yet Christian by explaining who we are and why we wear the uniform.”

On January 23, the USA Southern Territory will take up that opportunity of witness as part of the “Uniformed for Service” campaign. Inspired by a similar initiative implemented in the Florida Division in September 2024, the Territorial Mission, Evangelism, and Cultural Ministries Department is challenging soldiers to wear their Salvation Army uniforms throughout the day and be ready to share the Army’s mission when prompted.

“I believe in what The Salvation Army uniform stands for,” says Major Chris Thornhill, territorial mission, evangelism, and cultural ministries secretary. “It also gets us in the door in

places that we would not normally be able to get into, no matter whether we are in red epaulets like the ones I wear or blue epaulets that a soldier would wear.”

While The Salvation Army is well-known in various communities, the campaign can also bring additional awareness to the organization’s mission and what its officers and soldiers stand for.

“Soldiers and attendees of the Army stretch across so many socioeconomic classes and communities, from the richest to the poorest and from so many backgrounds. But we have a common thread in the uniform,” Major Thornhill says. “It’s part of why I love the Army. You don’t know who’s wealthy. We’re all in uniform.”

The decision to wear one’s uniform on January 23, or any day, should also be accompanied by spiritual preparation. Knowing that others may inquire about the choice in a public setting, Major Thornhill encourages young soldiers to “talk to their corps officers and tell them you’ve seen this uniform campaign and want to be a part of this, showing everyone who we are.”

The Salvation Army uniform is also referred to as an outward sign of an inward experience,

“Calling All Soldiers!...” continued on page 2

Major Anne Westmoreland serves as USA Southern Territorial ministries to women secretary.

Photo Credit: Jon Avery

Photo Credit: Joseph Chang

or some variation of this idea. Deployment of the uniform can, as Major Thornhill notes, open both literal and figurative doors, but it also should be representative of the Army’s mission to meet human need in His name without discrimination.

“So many times we can go through our days unseen, unknown, or even almost invisible, but we want everyone in our community to know who the members of The Salvation Army are, and what we stand for,” Major Thornhill says. “I think it’s high time for people to know who we are.”

“If someone asks, ‘Why do this?’ I would say, ‘Why not do it?’” he continues. “Why shouldn't we be proud of what we wear? Why shouldn't we be proud to signify that we are a believer in Jesus? Let’s show the world and our communities who The Salvation Army is.”

The campaign begins with wearing one’s uniform on January 23, with soldiers also en -

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

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couraged to take a selfie or group photo and upload it to the Mission & Cultural Ministries Facebook group. In addition, soldiers can take note of how many conversations stemmed from the uniform and its outward expression. Sharing that information and how he or she responded and engaged in discussion on the topic will then carry the conversation even further.

Photo Credit: Joseph Chang

Photo Credit: Allie Hogue

A Homecoming Moment Red Kettle Encounter Sparks

BY ERIC SHORT

Generational Gratitude

For Ursula Arello, attending the University of Tennessee Homecoming football game against Mississippi State on November 9 with her daughter turned out to be more than just a chance to cheer for the Volunteers. It became a heartfelt reminder of her family's legacy of generosity, gratitude, and faith—all sparked by an unexpected encounter at a Salvation Army Red Kettle.

As Arello and her daughter approached Neyland Stadium, the iconic sound of a bell ringing caught her attention. Standing by the familiar Red Kettle was Major Cam Henderson, area commander of The Salvation Army in Knoxville. After donating digitally via QR code, Arello found herself engaged in conversation with Major Henderson, who kindly inquired about her connection to The Salvation Army.

What followed was a deeply personal story that has shaped Arello’s life—and now, Major Henderson’s mission. She shared how her late

grandfather, a destitute Italian immigrant toddler around 1910, was saved by The Salvation Army. Severely undernourished and suspected of having pneumonia, her grandfather faced bleak odds until The Salvation Army coordinated his medical care and placement in foster care.

“The Salvation Army didn’t just save his life,” Arello says. “They gave him a future—and gave me and my family a reason to always support the kettles.”

Moved by her words, Major Henderson offered a prayer of gratitude and blessing, turning an ordinary game day moment into a profound spiritual experience.

“I never expected that kind of outreach and care at a football game,” Arello shares. “Major Henderson’s prayer was so thoughtful and poignant. It reminded me that The Salvation Army’s mission is about more than meeting physical needs—it’s about offering hope and compassion at every opportunity.”

For Major Henderson, this encounter was a reminder of why The Salvation Army exists.

“Hearing stories like Ms. Arello’s is humbling,” he says. “It’s a testament to the enduring impact of love, care, and faith in action.”

Arello’s story underscores the importance of the mission of The Salvation Army, focusing on providing meals, shelter, and hope to those in need, and continuing to impact lives for more than a century.

Dolly Parton Continues Legacy of Generosity with Second Million-Dollar Donation to The Salvation Army

FROM NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

After serving as The Salvation Army's 27th annual Red Kettle Campaign Kickoff halftime performer and donating $1 million to the national nonprofit in 2023, superstar and philanthropist Dolly Parton has shown her tremendous heart for giving yet again with a second donation of $1 million, funded by her Courage & Civility award from Jeff Bezos, to be used for the 2024 holiday season.

"Ms. Parton is once again ringing in hope and holiday spirit through another incredibly generous donation," says National Commander Kenneth Hodder. "Ahead of this Christmas season, when hope is needed more than

ever, we are honored and grateful to receive this gift which will help The Salvation Army serve millions of individuals and families during a time of vital need."

Parton's gift comes at a crucial time as, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, the share of Americans living in poverty grew from 12.5 percent in 2022 to 12.9 percent in 2023, totaling around 36.8 million people. 2024 Christmas fundraising has been uniquely challenging, with five fewer days of bell ringing, which could amount to as much as a $13.5 million deficit in giving nationally based on money raised at the Red Kettles in 2023.

Once again, however, Parton's generous spirit will be distributed to local communities experiencing a high demand for food services.

With the help of generous contributions like Parton's during the holidays, The Salvation Army can meet the immediate and long-term needs of millions of individuals and families.

Photo Credit: Major Cam Henderson

Photo Credit: National Headquarters

Marching Forward! Atlanta Salvation Army Battle Origins

BY MAJOR THOMAS MCWILLIAMS

The red, yellow, and blue flag was unfurled, the bass drum was harnessed, and the first steps were taken into the newest community claimed for the Kingdom of God by The Salvation Army. The year was 1890, and those chosen to spearhead the attack were Major and Mrs. John Dale. A hallmark of Salvationists of that era was the desire for local citizens to know that the officers and soldiers who were wearing those strange uniforms intended to work boldly and loudly to redeem the worst of the worst, the least of the least, and the most destitute of the lost from the sins and poverty which enslaved them.

Captain Davis was selected two years later to take up the ministry mantle, leading the small but determined fledgling soldiery unit. Building upon the work begun by Major and Mrs. Dale, she, along with Sergeant “Mother” Brown, worked diligently to confront the sin and poverty they found. Unfortunately, their enemies also went to work. The opponents of the Army were the local purveyors of vice, such as saloon and brothel owners, who profited from prolific debauchery and degradation. They enacted a plan to shut down the Salvationists, hiring street toughs to run a campaign of intimidation.

As the small band of Salvation soldiers attempted to share the message of deliverance, they were physically attacked by these hired bullies, pelted with rotten eggs and garbage, their sermons drowned out with shouts and curses thrown at them or at any passers-by who dared to stop and listen. Evangelistic street meetings became battle zones. The meeting hall rented for the first Army stronghold was not immune to this hostility, the building’s windows broken out time and time again. The threat of personal violence and persecution was ever-present, yet these heroes of the faith would not relent.

When personal attacks would not dissuade the Salvationists from doing their outstanding work, the local vice business owners utilized law enforcement agents to intervene. Captain Davis and Mother Brown, along with some additional Salvationists, were arrested and sent to jail for the crime of selling the “War Cry.” However, the enemies of the Army work underestimated the resilience and commitment of the Salvationists.

Once they were released from jail, these uniform-clad evangelists immediately returned to their efforts in redeeming lives.

The next commanding officer assigned to the community was Captain Anna Glosser. Instead of backing down in the face of this opposition, she increased the number of marches and open airs and stood as the principal preacher of the Gospel in every meeting. In this city's church culture, being an aggressive woman preacher went squarely against the religious tenets of the day, inviting even more persecution. Yet, neither she nor the soldiers carrying the flags, playing the instruments, or marching with the timbrels would be dissuaded from taking the Gospel message to the whosoever.

Today, 135 years later, The Salvation Army of Atlanta, Georgia, continues the work begun by Major and Mrs. Dale, Captain Davis, Sargeant Brown, and Captain Glosser. Lives are still being redeemed, and the Gospel is preached daily. The community has since embraced the Army's work and wonderfully supports it. Though Atlanta has changed dramatically in the years since the Army first stood on its downtown streetcorners, the Gospel message remains the same.

Whenever I travel down Piedmont Avenue or Peachtree or Courtland Street, I wonder if this is where Captain Davis and Mother Brown stood their ground while garbage was hurled at them or where Captain Glosser marched behind the unfurled flag. Every redeemed life, rescued soul, and destitute person given hope during the past many generations in the Atlanta area and the other communities seeded by Atlanta soldiers and officers owe an outstanding debt to these first Salvationists who suffered and sacrificed to blaze the redemptive path we walk today.

And now, let the great work continue — let us march on!

Photos provided by Southern Territorial Historical Center

NSC Youth Minister in California

BY BRAD ROWLAND

For the first time in more than a half-decade, the talented young people from a pair of divisional ensembles from the North & South Carolina (NSC) Division ventured outside the Southeast for a weekend of ministry and fellowship. From October 23-28, the Carolinas Divisional Youth Band and the division's acting and dance troupe, Lights Up!, visited the Del Oro Division, which covers northern California and northern Nevada.

The first full day was spent in rehearsal at the Del Oro Camp & Conference Center in Nevada City, California. Following that important preparation, the ensembles visited and ministered outside the California State Capitol in Sacramento on the morning of Friday, October 25.

“We had one couple come by who said they were just visiting Sacramento,” says Aaron Jackson, divisional music director. “They heard what they recognized as Christian music and wanted to come and just sit and listen. So, they pulled up two chairs and sat the whole time.”

Friday evening brought the ministry teams to The Salvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) in Stockton, California.

“If I had to pick one moment that stood out during the trip, it was probably the ARC visit,” Jackson shares.

Lights Up! and the band each performed, with a Jesus Theater presentation serving as a key centerpiece of the evening. That was followed by a poignant devotional from Captain Chris Raymer, corps officer in Greensboro, North Carolina, and a chaperone for the trip.

“Our visit to the ARC was a true highlight,” declares Captain Raymer. “The men were clearly overjoyed to have us and many of them walked away that night with a deeper understanding of God’s love for them.”

During the weekend, the young people were fortunate to spend some time sightseeing, including a meal at In-n-Out Burger and a visit to Fisherman’s Wharf, a leading tourist center in San Francisco. The schedule remained busy, however, and Saturday evening featured a concert at The Salvation Army’s Suisun City Kroc Center.

This concert was a collaboration with the Del Oro Youth Chorus, led by Divisional Music Director Daniel Prince, who was also a valuable liaison for the entire weekend. The groups came together to sing a piece focused on Revelation 19:1 during the concert.

“It was very nice to have the two divisions come together and sing,” Jackson shares. “Singing is a powerful tool partly because everyone can do it, and there is power in being able to share scripture in that form as well.”

As with any weekend of this magnitude, there are many moving parts, necessitating total cooperation from the young people and the navigation of countless logistics. The spirit of the groups was encouraging and positive, with a focus on the common goal of powerful ministry.

“We really had a great weekend,” Captain Raymer says. “I was most impressed seeing our younger players and creative arts group members get involved with the logistics like setting up, moving equipment, and just pitching in together. Everyone took a role and saw it through.”

The journey concluded with a full slate of activities on Sunday, October 27, including an outdoor concert in the Folsom area. Sunday morning worship for the groups took place at the Sacramento Citadel Corps, with the message provided by NSC Divisional Commander Lt. Colonel Ronnie Raymer. As Jackson notes, the theme and focus of the artistic repertoire was on coming to the altar and laying one’s sins down. “It was a throughline in each meeting, and it was received very well at the corps,” says Jackson. “Everyone was understanding of this central message and that we all need to come to Christ. It was impactful.”

While the trip itself was both memorable and powerful, it was also the culmination of extensive work. That includes regular rehearsals, meticulous planning, and the individual choice of each young person to allocate the required time and effort.

“I think going on this trip and all of the preparation for it was very beneficial for the spiritual and artistic growth of our young people,” Jackson says. “They were pushed hard and worked hard.”

Jackson also praises the groups' artistic growth and development, noting that they both performed at their highest levels. But the underlying focus was the spiritual side of the journey, both with the impact made on those who observed the public ministry and on the young people themselves.

“I think our message of the Gospel was very evident to everyone we came into contact with,” says Jackson. “Everywhere we went, in every single location, there were people coming up to us and saying that the message was what they needed to hear. It was emotional for a lot of us, and I think God was honored.”

All told, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many in the ensembles, and one that will not soon be forgotten.

“I believe it was a tremendous opportunity for our young people,” Jackson states. “Not just to have this fellowship and experience together, but also to give their best and share the Gospel with others in this way.”

Photo Credits: Abbie Aguilar

‘Seeing God Move’ Through Salvationist Service Corps SERVE

BY KRISTIN MUDGE

What we now call Salvationist Service Corps (SSC) began in 1968 when a group of Southern Territorial young adults spent their summer in Mexico supporting the Kingdom-building work of The Salvation Army. “Since that launch,” says Major Jamie Satterlee, territorial youth secretary, “hundreds of young adults from across our territory have gone to serve in more than 30 countries around the world.”

In 2024, the Southern Territory sent 15 young adults as mission teams into two vastly different territories — one to the Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar, & Thailand Territory, and another to the Norway, Iceland, and Faroe Islands Territory.

Caleb Phillips from the Texas Division was selected to join the Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar, & Thailand (SMMT) team. He shared his experience with the officers and employees at Territorial Headquarters (THQ) during their end-of-summer debrief in Atlanta.

“This was my first mission trip,” Caleb shared. “I’ve been overseas before, but this was my first time going for something that had to do with ministering to people. When I heard that I got accepted to go to Malaysia I

was very excited, because that’s where I really wanted to go.”

Caleb explained that for their first three weeks in Malaysia the team spent much of their time with the kids at the children’s home, doing projects and programs and building relationships. “These kids are some of the best kids I’ve ever met,” he said. The children all came from varying backgrounds, some there

because their parents couldn’t provide for them, some because they had no parents, “but what they did have was overwhelming joy.”

“They were so inspiring with their joy and also their faith.” Caleb spoke of one of his favorite memories of the trip, happening one night as the kids from the children’s home led their nightly devotions. “I heard them singing outside of my room. So, I went outside, and I just sat there and listened to them because I could just hear God in their voices.”

Another memorable moment came while the team was leading a Sunday worship service. As Caleb and another team member led the altar call, “there were so many people at the altar that they had to make a makeshift altar out of chairs that we had in the chapel. And that sight brought me to tears. I just started bawling while I was trying to keep playing guitar for the song. Seeing God move like that was beautiful, and it really inspired me. And I know I’ll never forget that.”

Caleb’s final powerful memory of the trip came on their last Sunday in Malaysia. They were leading a time of prayer, and everyone

Photo Credit: Jon Avery

Photo Credit: SMMT Team

was asked to close their eyes and bow their heads. Another group member asked those gathered, “If you don’t have Jesus in your heart, would you please raise your hand?” Caleb recalls that one of the older boys from the children’s home named Joseph raised his hand in response. “He accepted Jesus that day,” Caleb announced with great emotion. “We all talked and prayed with him, and he even went to the altar that day and prayed over someone else. It really showed me what God can do.”

“I’ll always remember that. And I’ll always remember that what we did, what God sent us to do, was probably one of the most important things we’ll do in our lives,” Caleb declared. “And I pray that those seeds we planted, and the seeds they planted in us, will continue to grow and flourish, and that God will continue to provide for that, for Kuching, for Malaysia.”

Caleb’s testimony of God’s faithfulness and the impact that serving others can make in our world is just one of thousands that those who have participated in SSC over the years could share.

The THQ Youth Department says SSC is “an exciting opportunity and privilege to learn

more about the world, to learn more about yourself, and, most importantly, to serve God.”

The Southern Territory will be sending out three teams of young adults this summer — two internationally to Santiago, Chile and Glasgow, Scotland, and one stateside to Ketchikan, Alaska. While applicants are asked to list their preference, the assignments will ultimately be determined by the SSC Application Committee.

Anyone seeking to apply for SSC 2025 must:

• Be 18 years of age before June 1, 2025

• Be a Salvationist in good standing

• Secure any necessary travel documents

• Raise $750 toward the cost of the trip

• Secure transportation to orientation and home following the SSC debrief

Applications can be found online at youthdownsouth.org and must be submitted by January 20, 2025

Please join us in prayer for the young adults of the Southern Territory who will be called and equipped to be the hands and feet of Jesus around the world this summer.

Photo Credit: Territorial Youth Department

Photo Credit: SMMT Team

‘Hold Space’ for Others

BY KRISTIN MUDGE

“Holding space” has recently become a buzzworthy phenomenon on social media, stemming from an emotional interview with the stars of the movie “Wicked.” While people online are using the phrase to mean keeping something fresh in one’s mind or focusing on feelings in the moment, the idea of “holding space” in the psychology world is something we as Christians should consider practicing in all our relationships.

The accepted explanation of “holding space” in mental health arenas is being emotionally present in the moment with others without trying to fix anything or anyone. Just being with them in relationship, allowing them to be and feel and express themselves without judgement, only giving love in return.

You may recognize this idea under a more commonly used name: the ministry of presence.

In chapter 12 of his letter to the Romans, Paul wrote, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn” (v 15). Much of the rest of this chapter speaks about what love in action looks like in relation to those around us. Love must be sincere (v 9). You should honor others above yourself (v 10). Share with those in need (v 13). Live in harmony, and don’t be proud or conceited (v 16). If we look at all of this put together,

it feels more like he’s encouraging inaction over any productive change; we are urged to simply be in proper relationship rather than attempting to fix anyone’s circumstances.

In The Salvation Army, we are given many ways and countless opportunities to serve others and help mitigate difficult circumstances in people’s lives. But oftentimes, the people we are closest to — our friends and family — are experiencing emotional difficulties that we have no control over. Sitting with them and listening to their worries can make us feel pained and powerless. But that is part of our calling as Christ-followers: to honor them, share as there is need, be present with them in their pain and sorrow, and love them sincerely. This is an even deeper honor than handing out Angel Tree gifts at Christmas or hot meals on a canteen following a disaster. This is representing Jesus in the room. Allowing our arms giving the embrace to be His, our tears for them to be His own, and our hand squeezing theirs to embody the strong and loving grip of the Father.

As people aspiring to live like Jesus, there isn’t a higher calling. There can be no greater challenge or joy than to personify Christ in the moment with someone who needs Jesus. As we enter this new year, let’s “hold space” for those in our lives who need a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on. Let’s remember that we aren’t called to fix everyone’s problems; we’re meant for something greater. We are called to represent Christ.

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

Eyes and Ears on the Leader

BY DR. STEVE KELLNER

The Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy’s flight demonstration squadron, are famous for close formation flying and hair-raising acrobatics, their planes coming as close as a mere 18 inches apart while flying near the speed of sound. Though there are six fighter jets in the squadron, the four-plane “Diamond Formation” is the heart of the Blue Angels show and where the most precise and tightly packed flying takes place.

With that in mind, you might be shocked to learn, as I was, that only the flight leader piloting the lead aircraft is actually looking ahead to where the formation is going. The other three pilots in the wing and tail planes are all looking at a different spot on the leader’s plane for the entirety of the nearly one-hour performance. They literally don’t know where they are or where they are going but must trust the leader completely to guide them safely.

Also guiding the other pilots is the voice of the flight leader in their radio headsets, narrating each maneuver of the performance. This is recited in a calm, almost musical way, with exactly the same tempo and inflection each time, which calms the pilots’ nerves and gives them confidence.

These pilots train together for months, learning the flight maneuvers at high altitude and with the planes well apart from each other. Gradually, they lower the altitude and reduce

the distance between their planes until they are performance ready. They also practice away from the airplanes, gathering in a darkened room with eyes closed and gripping an imaginary stick, while the flight leader recites the narrative, a kind of pilot’s prayer meeting.

The applications to our spiritual lives are many and obvious, but I’ll mention just a few. First, if we want to get closer to Jesus, we have to give up looking out the front window of our life’s airplane in the vain attempt to control our flight destination. We must instead fix our eyes on Jesus and let Him do the navigating. Those of us of a certain age know that this really isn’t giving up much, as we have seen our best laid plans go awry many times over. It’s good to have a plan in life, but we can bank (pardon the flying pun!) on the Lord taking us in directions we never imagined, always much to our benefit.

Second, the Holy Spirit is ready to narrate our lives with His calm and soothing voice in our spiritual headsets, but only if we’re listening to Him. There are many louder voices in our world that will do anything but calm our nerves and give us confidence. But the Lord’s sheep know His voice, so we will know when He’s the one doing the talking.

Finally, this way of living, as with precision flying, takes practice, meaning daily communion with Jesus, learning gradually how to fly close to Him. And it helps to regularly get into a dark room, alone or with other believers, with eyes closed in prayer, and have undistracted time with Him. So, ladies and gentlemen, fix your eyes on Jesus, listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit, pray, and sit back, relax, and enjoy the flight!

Transformation

BY LT. COLONEL ALLEN SATTERLEE

One of the most difficult lessons life teaches us is that not only is life not fair, a lot of times it doesn’t even make sense. Particularly puzzling are those times when God clearly intervenes and changes a situation, while in another situation equally dire He does not. I think of my mother dying when I was 19 and my younger brother was 14. Would the resulting downward spiral in our family have happened if God had allowed her to remain? You doubtless have your own unanswered questions about your life, especially if you have given yourself to Christ and trusted Him to guide you along the way. Why didn’t He intercede? Why was this situation left in ruins?

The Bible frequently uses illustrations from agriculture, so perhaps one here might help. It has always been a great wonder to me how a seed, which seems to be nearly wooden, can be placed into the ground to become anything at all. Left to itself, it will just sit there and do nothing, unless you count its being eaten. There’s value in that, of course, but it’s a far cry from the seed fulfilling its greatest destiny.

Then there’s water. Most of it pours from the sky, drains away somewhere, makes a mess, ends up in a puddle, lake, or river, and then gets sucked up into the clouds to repeat the process. Sounds a bit tedious really.

Finally, there’s the dirt. Dirt is not too exciting unless you happen to be a five-year-old boy. We spend a lot of time and effort getting it out of our houses, our clothes, and filtering it out of the air.

But in combination and with the right amounts they together transform that nugget of nothing into something that matters. The seed, tucked away in the soil and touched with moisture, is secretly enlivened to become something in the darkness. What’s more, if we supplement that soil with stuff that to us seems repugnant such as manure and rot, the chances of something especially good coming from it are greatly enhanced—like juicy apples, luscious corn, and so much more.

I keep going back to these things that in themselves don’t look that promising but in the right combination, and especially handled in the right way, can produce wonderful things. So, the rotting things can just rot, if you will, or they can become fertilizer, allowing something useful to be made of them.

I said at the beginning that I saw no good thing that came from my mother’s death when my brother and I were teenagers. Directly, no. But since that time, I never hear of someone losing their mother without being touched with their grief and feeling empathy that I doubt I would have known had I not wept my own tears, even after all these years. So, the rotten thing has allowed fruit to be borne, although I wish beyond all wishing there could have been another way to learn that lesson.

In the right hands — in the Lord’s hands — the combination of things that otherwise would be wasted become tools for Him to do His creative work as miraculously as He does each time a farmer plants a field. That familiar verse reminds us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).

In the wisdom of God, waste is transformed into wonder.

WE ARE AN ARMY!

Being Rooted in Christ

BY MAJOR BARRY CORBITT

As a child growing up in the United States of America, I remember well the excitement that surrounded the ushering in of a new year. December 31st possessed its own kind of magic, a mysterious energy that set it apart from other days on the calendar. It was a time to start over, to begin again, to atone for the mistakes of the previous 365 days.

For most of my childhood, our New Year’s Eve festivities followed a familiar pattern. In the early evening, my parents would pile us into the family car, and we would make the 20-minute drive to the local Salvation Army corps. Throughout the night we would celebrate the approaching new year with food, fellowship, and worship. The midnight hour would find the congregation gathered around the altar in a solemn act of rededication to God, committing ourselves once again to live holy, obedient lives in the coming year. Those good times are indelibly etched in my memory. Through this and other experiences in my youth I learned the importance of a continual assessment of one’s spiritual condition.

The Salvation Army’s ninth doctrine is a simple, straightforward statement that reminds us of the necessity of unbroken relationship with Jesus: We believe that continuance in a state of salvation depends upon continued obedient faith in Christ. It was essential for William and Catherine Booth, as they developed the Army’s central articles of faith, that this fundamental theological point be included.

The logic of the principle is solid and withstands scrutiny at all levels. Simply put, salvation is intended not only to save us, but to continually change us through the intimate presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Such spiritual growth can only be achieved when we are in sync with the guidance of the Spirit. We believe then, that salvation is meant to transform us, to make us different than before while we were captive to our rebellious nature. For this transformation to occur, it is imperative that man cooperate with God in holy, obedient relationship. Conversely, it is impossible to grow in Christ when the relationship is strained by human disobedience. Our will must be aligned with God’s will if we ever intend to mature as followers of Christ.

The scriptures are clear as to the expectation of continued, obedient faith. In his discourse to the disciples as recorded in the 15th chapter of John, Jesus makes a definitive statement regarding the ongoing continuity of relationship with him: “Remain in me and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me” (v 4). The interpretation of this profound statement is clear. Just as a branch cut from a tree will lose its life source and

surely die, we too will forfeit our spiritual vitality, our very capacity to live holy lives for God, if we do not remain in faithful relationship with Christ. Likewise, Paul, in his letter to the Church at Colossae, re-states the thoughts of Jesus when he says, “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness” (Colossians 2:6-7). We return then to our original doctrinal premise and logically conclude that without continued communion with Christ, our ability to remain obedient is surely diminished and our salvation jeopardized.

In this new year, it behooves us all to re-examine our current relationship with Christ. Is it all that it should be? Are we truly rooted in him? Are our wills and desires synchronized with the Spirit’s intentions for our lives? These are all pertinent questions as we contemplate the fruitfulness of tomorrow. In 2025, will we be the true reflection of Christ? Time will tell. I encourage you to redeem that time wisely, intent on guarding the sanctity of your salvation.

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

CREATIVE CORNER: Calling All Creatives!

The Southern Spirit wants to share your creativity in our Creative Corner! Whether you write poetry, fiction, journalism, essays, screenplays, or scripts, or if you are a visual artist creating paintings, photography, or drawings, we want to share your art with the Southern Territory.

We want to see how the Holy Spirit is leading you to create. Our current inspiration can be taken from our Territorial Priority to SERVE. How do you serve others? What does serving God look like to you? We want to see whatever God is placing in your heart today.

Submissions for consideration can be sent to kristin.mudge@uss.salvationarmy.org or through southernspiritonline.org

Lt. Colonel Doris Fizer-Chapman

Lt. Colonel Doris Fizer-Chapman was Promoted to Glory while surrounded by loved ones on November 15, 2024, just days after her 90th birthday.

Doris M. Fizer was born on Veterans Day in 1934, in Charleston, WV, to Harry and Elsie Fizer. She attended the corps there throughout her childhood and felt the call to officership at the age of 10.

She entered the School for Officer Training in 1953 as a member of the Soul Winners session of cadets. She was commissioned with the rank of Lieutenant and sent to be the assistant officer at the Huntington Corps in West Virginia.

In 1958, her first of two corps officer appointments was to the Richmond Hill Oregon Corps. From there she joined the Training College staff as a brigade officer, followed by another corps appointment to Birmingham Citadel, AL. A number of staff posts then followed in the Arkansas-Louisiana, Texas, Alabama-Louisiana-Mississippi, Georgia, and North & South Carolina Divisions. About midway through these was an appointment to the Editorial Department at Territorial Headquarters (THQ) in Atlanta.

A succession of territorial appointments followed, including assistant territorial financial secretary, insurance and risk management, and after a stint in the Florida Division as general secretary she returned to THQ as the territorial secretary for program where she helped produce the International Millennial Congress in 2000.

Long-Term Recovery Makes a Difference

BY CINDY FULLER

On December 10, 2021, a devastating storm crossed multiple states leaving a 100-mile path of destruction. Thanks to donor generosity, The Salvation Army had funding to provide longterm recovery case management services.

As a tornado crossed Truman, Arkansas, Verna and her adult disabled son took shelter in their hallway. Their home suffered such major damage they had to move out while repairs were completed. Although insurance covered most of the repairs, she still needed a new heating unit to warm the house. Emergency Disaster Services connected with Verna to provide case management to assist with her recovery.

Lt. Colonel Fizer received Long Service Recognition for 40 years of service by the time she retired on July 1, 2003. Her officership, including serving both in active and retired capacities, spans nearly 70 years.

At age 69, she married William Roy Chapman, and they enjoyed 20 years of loving relationship.

In retirement, Lt. Colonel Fizer-Chapman took over the women’s ministry for the Lawrenceville Corps, and many delighted in her creative programs. She was a notable example as both a leader and a resolute soldier. Many still

Major Jeanette Jones

Major Jeanette Jones was Promoted to Glory on October 30, 2024, in Greenville, SC, surrounded by her loving family. She was 92.

Helen Jeanette Lane was born the youngest of a set of twins to Milburn and Martha Lane in Johnson City, TN, on September 26, 1932. After high school, she entered the School for Officer

remember her playing the valve-trombone in the corps band. The Colonel brought a sense of humor everywhere she went. Sometimes seen as a stern leader, she also had a very tender side.

The Colonel loved her Savior and spoke of Him often to others. In her final days she expressed her desire to “go home to Glory, where all my people are.”

Lt. Colonel Doris Fizer-Chapman is predeceased by her parents and her loving husband, Roy. She is survived by a son, Major Ken Chapman, as well as several grandchildren.

Training in Atlanta as a member of the Ambassadors session of cadets.

She was commissioned with the rank of Lieutenant in 1951, later marrying her beloved David D. Jones on January 18, 1960. Together, they served in several corps and divisional appointments across the Southern Territory. Major Jeanette was one of only a handful of Salvation Army officers to achieve a Long Service Bar and Stars saluting 50 years of active service—a rare accomplishment.

Majors David and Jeanette Jones retired from active service on July 1, 2001, and made their retirement home in Greenville, SC.

Major Jeanette Jones is predeceased by her loving husband of 60 years, Major David Jones. She is survived by two daughters, Chana (Mike) Fletcher and Kellie (Shawn) Teeters; a brother, Ralph Lane; and a sister-in-law, Jackie Albritton. She also leaves five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Her unmet needs were assessed and presented for funding assistance. Representatives from several agencies, including The Salvation Army, approved Verna’s request, and she and her son were able to move back into their home before winter.

St. Hagop Armenian Church Pinellas Park, FL

Salvation Army Family Store, San Antonio, TX

Camp Keystone Holiness Center Starke, FL

Camp Keystone Multipurpose, Starke, FL

young Anne.

But even as the Holy Spirit gently removed all but one of the restrictions she placed on entering officership over the late 1990s, she finally surrendered the final obstacle during the Millennial Congress held in Atlanta in 2000.

“At one of the invitations following a sermon, the chorus ‘All That I Am’ was being sung,” Major Anne recalls. She responded and fully surrendered her all, every last reservation, at the altar there in the Georgia World Congress Center. “The next day, a young man came up to me introducing himself as Lieutenant Bobby Westmoreland.”

Bobby later confessed to Anne that he had noticed her while she was parading with the Bangladesh Command delegation in the March of Witness parade through downtown Atlanta. Being rather tall (her word), and looking smart in her Bangladeshi Salvationist uniform, Anne cut quite a statuesque figure and obviously made an impression on young Westmoreland.

The couple fell in love and eventually married, with Anne receiving training at the William Booth College in London as a member of the Believers session of cadets (2001-2003).

The Westmorelands’ dual career spanned several corps, divisional, and territorial appoint-

ments, as well as overseas service (Anne’s longheld desire) in Great Britain, Denmark, the Republic of Georgia, and Ukraine.

During a near three-year territorial appointment in Denmark, Major Anne was blessed with the rare opportunity for any officer to soldier alongside her parents at their home corps of Copenhagen Temple. She was even able to sing in the Temple Songsters with her parents in her native Danish!

Her present appointment is in the Southern Territory (now her second home) as territorial ministries to women secretary. Under Territorial President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Donna Igleheart’s leadership, Major Anne loves ministering to the women of the Southland.

Talking with Major Anne, one comes away impressed by her humility. She is a servant leader, focusing like a laser on whatever her present appointment may be and the immense responsibilities that come with each one. She gives little thought to her next appointment but wants to continue as “a life-long learner,” so that she can spend her life extending God’s Kingdom in any way He sees fit.

“I never dreamed my life would take the turns it has, nor that I would serve Jesus and His people in such faraway places,” she admits.

She is also blessed by a double portion of

gratitude for her two homes (Denmark and the USA South).

“So much was invested in me at the Copenhagen Temple when I was a girl by my parents, my grandparents, officers, and leaders—leaving me with a profound depth of gratitude for my people there,” she shares.

“But when we came back to the [USA] South—to my new home—I have a peace and [another] depth of gratitude with a desire to pour into the people of this territory the same investment that was given to me.”

Photo Credit: Laura Dake

Photo Credit: G-Lab

Photo Credit: Major Frank Duracher

AROUND THE SOUTHERN TERRITORY

(At right) The children’s choir from The Salvation Army of Columbus, GA, brought holiday cheer during the community’s Kia AutoSport Night of Lights.

(Below) Partnering with WAVE TX for a 14-hour Angel-athon, The Salvation Army of Louisville, KY, raised nearly $160,000 for their Angel Tree program.

(Above and below) The Salvation Army of Wake County, NC, was honored to participate in the unveiling of Crabtree Valley Mall’s “Giving Wall” as one of the disaster relief organizations receiving proceeds for efforts in aiding those affected by Hurricane Helene.

seven cities enthusiastically participating in their first year utilizing this model

(Above) Salvation Army volunteers provided hot chocolate and music during the city of Bryan, TX’s annual Lights on Bryan community celebration.

(Below) National Capital Area Command in Washington, DC, hosted an Evening of Worship and Celebration for their community at the Prince George’s Corps, supported by the National Capital Band and corps musicians.

(Above and below) Runners enjoyed iconic and scenic landmarks in downtown St. Petersburg, FL, in spite of frigid temperatures during the Angel Tree Toy Run in St. Petersburg/South Pinellas County.

(At far left, left, and right) The Salvation Army of Central Arkansas launched its Mayoral Bell Ringing Challenge, with

for Red Kettle efforts.

(Above) Metro Jackson Area Command in Mississippi partnered with Miss Volunteer Mississippi Lauryl Joyner and Miss Teen Volunteer Mississippi Izzy Karns to encourage Red Kettle and Angel Tree efforts.