“Conception Bay South is blessed with people who accept, welcome and love those who come to us,” states Major Wayne Green. “This is what makes the corps work and grow.” “Everyone fell in love with Solomon and unequivocally accepted him as one of their own,” says Dena. “He’s even part of the worship team and often plays the drums or bass guitar.” “Even though Nigeria and Newfoundland are worlds apart, the people here remind me of those in the village where I was raised,” says Solomon. “They are kind, giving and compassionate.” When Solomon’s father unexpectedly died in an automobile accident last year, the corps gave a love offering and were able to raise $3,000 so that the couple could travel to Nigeria to attend the funeral, one anonymous donor giving a third of the amount. “I hadn’t been home to see my family in eight years, so this generosity was as unexpected as it was appreciated,” he explains. Solomon is a residential counsellor at The Salvation Army’s Wiseman Centre in St. John’s, while Dena is a youth pastor at St. John’s West Corps. Solomon is completing a master’s degree in electrical engineering at Memorial University of
Newfoundland, and Dena will complete a bachelor’s degree in biblical and theological studies from Booth University College in the fall. “We don’t know what the future holds but we hope it is here in Newfoundland and Labrador,” says Dena. One incident encapsulated the Okhifohs’ experience. Solomon had been pondering a job opportunity in Alberta when one of the corps officers took Solomon aside after a church service. “I don’t know what your plans are,” Major Wayne Green told him, “but I want to let you know that you are welcome here. This is your home.” “That statement went right through me,” says Solomon. “I realized this was my home now.” Left, the Okhifohs in front of Conception Bay South; right, the family poses on a fishing boat
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Volunteer at The Salvation Army Refreshment Centre For more info or to volunteer, please contact Lisa Marinis at lisa_marinis@can.salvationarmy.org 416-321-2654 ext 210
To
Solomon and Dena in African attire
Save the Date!
Saturday, December 3, 2011 Toronto Santa Shuffle Location: 1132 Leslie St., Wilket Creek Park and Sunnybrook Park To volunteer please contact Lisa Marinis lisa_marinis@can.salvationarmy.org 416-321-2654 ext. 210 Salvationist I July 2011 I 15 SS Salvationist Qtr Page.indd 1
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