THE SALVATION ARMY10 W. Algonquin RoadDes Plaines, Illinois 60016

Moving? Send the attached label with your correction to:Circulation Manager, 10 W. Algonquin Road, Des Plaines, Illinois 60016

Just six months after theRay and Joan Kroc CorpsCommunity Centeropened in Grand Rapids,Mich., more than 5,300

people have become membersand nearly 19,400 have pur-chased day passes.“We are so excited and

thankful the community hasembraced the Kroc Center insuch a marvelous way. We

weren’t sure what to expect becausethere’s nothing like it in the area. Wehoped we’d be where we are by nowand are humbled that so many peo-ple have visited and joined us,” saidStephanie Denton, director of mar-keting, membership and public rela-tions. “By our first-year anniversary[November 2011], we’re projecting10,000 members.”

Stephanie believesthe center’s primaryattraction is its holisticapproach; spiritual,physical, emotional and relationalemphases are evident throughoutthe building. Kroc Center officers—Major Marc Johnson, senior officer;Major Karen Johnson, programdevelopment officer; Captain PeterMount, congregational life officer,and Captain Catherine Mount,youth development officer—make ita point to greet members and guestsand to minister to them when oppor-tunities arise. They also visit thehomes of people who’ve attendedworship services. A monthly “I’llFight Day” sends volunteers into thecommunity to rake leaves, shovelsidewalks and deliver cookies.“The entire Kroc Center is a wor-

ship space. We meet people’s spiri-tual needs on a treadmill or in thepool just as much as we do in our

Sunday worship services,” saidMajor Marc Johnson. “Our goal is tomeet people where they are andtransform them holistically.”Many who’ve come to the center

looking for fitness have joinedSunday morning worship; a decisionto open the fitness equipment areaon Sunday mornings has borne sig-nificant fruit. Many who see andhear the bilingual worship beginattending. Prospective-membertours also have attracted individualsand families to worship.Commissioner Carol Seiler, terri-

torial coordinator for strategic mis-sion planning, commented, “In ourattempt to provide a holisticapproach and ministry to the peoplewe serve through the Kroc Centers,

Continued on page 12

Note: Read a first-hand account fromCaptain Christopher Marques on page 8.

Grand, rapid Kroc growth!

Continued on page 2

Volume 41, Number 5 May 2011

The Salvation Army in Japanhas transitioned into long-term disaster recovery plan-ning after its initial

response to provide vital assistanceto people affected by the Marchearthquake, tsunami and resultantnuclear power plant disasters.Hardest hit was a 1,200-mile stretchof northern Japan’s eastern coast.Emergency services teams left

immediately from Tokyo to feed anddistribute basic necessities to sur-vivors and evacuees in Sendai (the

city nearest the epicenter of the nat-ural disasters), Koriyama,Shirakawa, Mito City and the areasurrounding the Fukushima Daiichinuclear plant (the power plant inmost critical condition).In Tokyo, the Army opened its

headquarters to feed and shelterstranded commuters. Rail and roadsystems were severely affected, andgasoline shortages hampered reliefwork travel; the normal 250-mile,six-hour drive from Tokyo to Sendaitook 20 hours.

The Korea Terri-tory sent 100,000bottles of waterand 5,000 first-aid kits, whileThe SalvationArmy WorldS e r v i c e sOrganization inthe U.S. sentblankets amongother items.Emergency service person-nel from InternationalHeadquarters (IHQ) arrivedto assist with relief effortsand planning.

Major Raelton Gibbs, an IHQemergency worker, reported, “Thework that’s been done [by the terri-tory] is commendable, from feedingprograms…to the distribution ofblankets, water bottles, bread anddiapers.” The Salvation Army haspaid particular attention to areashard-to-reach by the governmentand other agencies. Teams continueto provide food and water in Sendaiand Yabuki-cho, both of which arenear Fukushima but outside the

exclusion zone set up around thenuclear power plant.The financial response from

around the world to The SalvationArmy Japan Disaster Appeal hasbeen considerable in enabling along-term response. The JapanTerritory is considering buildingtemporary accommodations andproviding household goods andequipment.Commissioner Makoto Yoshida,

territorial commander in Japan, isgrateful for the practical and spiritu-al support that has been offered

A Salvation Army emergency canteen distributed hotdrinks in Sendai.

A Japanese officer hands out prepackaged meals in Sendai.

The line of people seeking assistance at theSendai Corps stretched for blocks.

Army responds to Japanese crisis

“We are all one body, we have the same Spirit, and we have all been called to the same glorious future.” Eph. 4:3,4 (NLT)

The Salvation Army / USA Central Territory

News and Views from the Midwest

Major Marc Johnson, senior Kroc Center officer (r), with R.J.(the Kroc mascot) and Brian Dent, the Kroc Center’s 5,000thmember!

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THE SALVATION ARMY10 W. Algonquin Road • Des Plaines, Illinois 60016847-294-2000COMMISSIONER PAUL R. SEILERTerritorial CommanderMAJOR JOHN WILKINSCommunity Relations and Development SecretaryELIZABETH KINZIEEditorial DirectorANNE URBANEditor/WriterJACQUELYN MURSCHELCommunications SpecialistFERN CALDWELLCirculation ManagerKENNETH ROMINGraphic Design and Production

VISIT OUR WEBSITE—www.usc.salvationarmy.org1-800-SALARMY

by Lt. Colonel Jeffrey SmithTerritorial Secretary for Personnel

It’s that time of year in ourArmy when many officers andsoldiers are thinking about theannual event we all call “June

Moves.” Soon, the announcementwill be made, and officer familieswill begin packing and preparing forthe conclusion of their present min-istries and the start of new ones indifferent locations.There will be upheaval, sadness,

loss, anticipation, fear, excitement,relief and anxiety. Every humanemotion is part of the possibleresponse to this sort of news—bothfor soldiers and for officers and theirfamilies. Dealing with emotions ispart of the process. It’s not unique tothe Army. While it may be exagger-ated in our organization becausenearly all moves happen at the sametime, people in our society movefairly regularly, and, in some profes-sions, more than others. It was truein the early church. Even in NewTestament times, church leaderswere redeployed in order to supportand foster the growth of the church.Paul experienced many farewells in

needed is part of an offi-cer’s commitment just aswelcomes and farewellsare part of life as a soldier,employee or volunteer.Trust that God is at

work in the process ofmoving. No one I knowtakes moves lightly. Ourhighest goal is to strength-en the Army and buildGod’s Kingdom throughstrategic deployment ofleaders. We believe Godwants to guide us, andwe seek His guidancethroughout the process.Determine to pursue

opportunities thatchange offers: chancesto make new friends anddeepen acquaintances;opportunities to learn anddevelop new skills; chances togrow in leadership and faith. Theseopportunities exist no matter howwe are affected by an officer’s move.I suppose I think more about

moves than most of you since it is aprimary responsibility of myappointment. I don’t determinethem alone, but I do give oversightto the process. I face the task withgreat optimism based on two keyconvictions.

The first results from the tes-timony of several deeply spir-itual and wise local officers Ihave known over the years.Their testimony was thateach set of officers broughtunique gifts and skills thatGod used for the good oftheir corps.The second comes from a

deep assurance I have thatthe Army cannot appoint mewhere God cannot use me. Godhelped me with this evenbefore I signed up. It waspart of the process He tookme through to prepare mefor the discipline of officer-ship. I claim it not only formyself but for every officer.I am very aware that our

human decisions are not per-fect. I know that after doing thebest we can and sending out themove list, we will likely find, in

hindsight, that there were things wemight have done better. There are noperfect plans, and improvement isalways possible. But, ultimately ourshortcomings are covered in God’sprovision. I cannot be appointedbeyond the reach of His grace or Hisgoodness. No matter where I am orwhom I serve with, God will haveimportant work for me to do. Theseare things we can all depend on!

Moves

his ministry. You can read a particu-larly emotional account in Acts20:13-37.The itinerant model of church

leadership which the Army uses hasdeep roots indeed!Today we are working hard to

make the average length of appoint-ment between four and five years.There is lots of discussion aboutwhat is the optimal length of time,but there is no one answer for everyappointment or every officer. Whatis clear in our organization is thatmoves are necessary in some orderof frequency. This means adjustmentto change is part of the landscape ofThe Salvation Army. A key concernis how to make the most of theopportunities each change offers us.Here are some suggestions:Accept the fact that officers move.

This advice is for both officers andnon-officers. Moving is neitherunique nor unusual, or unnatural.Availability to serve where we are

GetConnected!Check out our complementary material on the web.www.usc.salvationarmy.org/getconnected

Resources/LinksFestival of Gospel Arts registration form

Multicultural Conference registration form

CMI registration form

Asbury University

Current Biblical Education Tour information

New Planned Giving commercial and web pages

Grand Rapids Kroc Center website

Central Territory’s Hispanic newsletter

I’ll Fight Day

Candidates web pages

Web exclusivesMore on the SA in Spain and Japan

Commissioner Busby’s reflections on Miller

Salvation Army notables at Glen Oak

Grand Rapids Kroc Center’s monthly I’ll FightDay

International Staff Bandmaster Stephen Cobbfull bio

by Lt. Colonel Marlene Chase

Onthe day of Pentecost 120souls waited in oneaccord to see what Godwould do. In Rockford,

Ill., 120 soldiers and friends of theRockford Temple, Ill., Corps, hungryfor God’s Spirit, likewise gathered toparticipate in a holiness seminar.God blessed from beginning to endthrough the faithful ministry ofGeneral Paul A. Rader (Rtd.) andCommissioner Kay Rader, former

international leaders of TheSalvation Army (1994-1999).Speaking of “grace, grit and the

good life,” General Rader urged del-egates to “re-think possible.” Hequoted Founder William Booth’swords: “It is possible to have andkeep a pure heart.” He noted a criti-cal disconnect between faith andbehavior that can leave us deaf tothe call to holiness. “But God givesgrace upon grace—a ceaseless sup-ply of grace that gives us strength for

the long obedi-ence,” he said.Throughout theweekend, theRaders under-scored the privi-lege and disciplineof the holy life andjointly encourageddelegates throughtheir inspiredteaching andp r e a c h i n g .Commissioner KayRader suggested atriad of grace notesthat embellish lifeand lead to a flour-

ishing finish. “Let God satisfy yourdeepest hunger,” she said. “God pro-vides a forever feast with the Bibleas our menu.”Thirty-eight of the 48 retired offi-

cers who live and worship inRockford enjoyed dinner withGeneral and Commissioner Rader ina period of sharing and inspiration.Majors Randy and Kathy

Hellstrom, corps officers, called forearnest prayer for an outpouring ofGod’s Spirit on Sunday morningwhere once again the Raders min-istered to a crowd of more than 300people and participated in theenrollment of two senior and ninejunior soldiers with a prayer ofdedication.

In his message,General Raderencouraged sol-diers and friendsto “make it yourgoal to please Godby seizing themoments of graceHe gives, by keep-ing clear the pathto the cross, andby living cleanbefore God.”Many sought theblessing of a cleanheart at the closeof the service.

Grace, grit and the good life

PhotosbyDianeTolcher

Continued from page 1

Kroc center

it is our intention that Kroc Centerfacilities are open on Sunday morn-ings so individuals coming in to thecenters can see that our faith is asimportant to us as any other aspectof our lives.“We don’t want to keep our wor-

ship services in silos, but want toprovide, in plain view withoutshame, the fact that we worship Godcorporately,” she continued. “If theKroc Center facilities are not openon Sundays, an unintended conse-quence could be that our membersnever connect that our celebrationof faith is a natural and meaningfulexpression of who we are.”The center’s gymnasium and pool

are the most popular recreationofferings, followed closely by the fit-ness area. Also popular are healthand wellness classes, particularlyzumba (a dance-based fitness pro-gram), and drop-in art classes.

ping students to shape the culturefor the Kingdom.”General Rader and Commissioner

John Busby spearheaded a sub-cam-paign to raise $2.5 million to namethe building in honor ofCommissioner Miller. Amazingly,the final donation to reach the goalwas made the day of CommissionerMiller’s funeral, a little over a monthbefore the center’s dedication. At adedication luncheon, a video salut-ing Commissioner Miller was sharedand his son, Major Andrew S. Miller,spoke.The vision for a place in which to

train communication arts students

in journalism, film and other mediadisciplines has been nurtured foryears by Dr. Jim Owens, dean of theSchool of Communication Arts.Asbury President Dr. Sandra Gray

reflected on the symbolism of thebuilding. Circular windows symbol-ize the unending love of Christ,while other windows contain cross-

es, she said, and even the pillars atthe entrance of the building stand forpillars of faith: holiness, evangelism,love, peace, hope, joy, worship, andprayer. As students move throughthe building, they can exit through aback lot set of “Main Street” store-fronts in much the same way theywill one day leave the university set-ting for the wider world.

The new Andrew S. MillerCenter for CommunicationArts is a “game-changer” forAsbury University. It will

allow new collaborations acrossmultiple disciplines and immersestudents in creativity. A crowd ofalumni, students, faculty, staff, com-munity members and SalvationArmy leaders gathered this spring tocelebrate its completion.Commissioner Andrew S. Miller

served on Asbury’s Board ofTrustees from 1967 to 1997 and was,in the words of General Paul A.Rader (Rtd.), former internationalleader of The Salvation Army andpast president ofAsbury University, “aconsummate commu-nicator.”“We’re thrilled for

the realization of adream and the greatfuture for Asbury andthe cause of Christ inthe world,” GeneralRader said. “This newbuilding will be a use-ful platform for equip-

Miller Center a game-changer

Quadruple the blessing

spiritual battles and to rememberGod has got our backs.Accomplished musician Ken

Medema worked his magic at thepiano, wrapping up the sessions withimpromptu songs that captured whathad transpired. Sometimes the songsbrought laughter and at other timestears, but they were always reflec-tive. Ken also favored us with a din-ner concert.Each session featured “From the

Frontlines,” which gave insight intowhat is happening in the variouscorps in the four divisions.Divisional secretaries for program,

Majors Barb MacLean, Andrew S.Miller, James Hall and Mark Harwell,shared the collective responsibilityfor planning and executing the eventwhich included a special conclusionwith Commissioners Israel L. andEva D. Gaither, recently retirednational leaders.

We were challenged byCommissioner Eva, citingMax Lucado’s book,Outlive Your Life, to “payattention to the legacy weleave, making sure it ismeaningful [to theKingdom],” and byCommissioner Israel toprotect our calling bykeeping our hearts on thealtar of holiness. The timepassed too quickly as wedevoured every morsel ofwisdom they imparted.We left the councils

knowing we are battleready!

by Major Debbie Richardson

Irecently had the privilege of par-ticipating in a quad-divisionalofficers’ councils in Branson,Mo. Two divisions each from the

Central and Southern territoriesjoined together for this Spirit-filledevent. They included: Midland, ledby Majors Lonneal and PattyRichardson; Kansas and WesternMissouri, led by Majors Charles andSharon Smith; Arkansas andOklahoma, led by Majors Ken andDawn Luyk; Kentucky andTennessee, led by Majors John andMarthalyn Needham.Dr. Carson Pue, best-selling author

and president of Arrow Leadership,led sessions on being “Spirit built andbattle ready.” He urged us to guardagainst neglect in our marriages, fam-ilies and health and to be watchfulfor discouragement, exhaustion andcoasting in our ministries. We wereencouraged to equip ourselves forday-to-day struggles that are, in fact,

Leadership changes

Colonels Dennis andSharon Strissel, mostrecently leaders of theGhana Territory, havebeen appointed as divi-sional commander anddivisional director ofwomen’s ministries forthe Eastern MichiganDivision, effective July1, 2011.

Majors John andTheresa Turner, currentlygeneral secretary and divi-sional secretary for women’sministries in the EasternMichigan Division, have beenappointed as divisional com-mander and divisional direc-tor of women’s ministries forthe Indiana Division, effectiveJune 22, 2011.

Please pray for the Strisselsand Turners as they take upthese new responsibilities.

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Commissioner Paul R. Seiler, Central territorial commander,recently announced the following changes in leadership forthe territory:

4

Lennard CosseyEast Chicago, Ind., CorpsMetropolitan Division

Lennard is anevangelist. Heloves to shareChrist with oth-ers and evenhad the oppor-tunity to sharehis faith whileworking withat-risk childrenin a grouphome setting.Lennard wasblessed to grow

up in a large family. His parentsinstilled in their children from ayoung age the importance of livingout their faith. Lennard felt the callto officership at a men’s camp in2009 and has found peace inanswering it. He follows in the foot-steps of his father and grandfatherwho were both ministers. Lennard’scorps officers are Captains Danieland Nivia Paredes.

Jeff and Terri OlsonNorridge Citadel, Ill., CorpsMetropolitan Division

Jeff and Terri have served as sol-diers at the Norridge Citadel Corpsfor many years but just recently feltled to become officers and met withtheir corps officers who confirmedtheir decision. While Terri has been

in The Salvation Army her wholelife, Jeff came to the Army as ayoung man through an invitationfrom his future brother-in-law,Randy Cox. Jeff and Terri look for-ward to what God will dothrough—and in—them as officers.They will attend the CFOT withtheir children, Cassidy and Cody.Their corps officers are MajorsSteve and Morag Yoder.

William and TaylorBruttoNorridge Citadel, Ill., CorpsMetropolitan Division

Bill and Taylor joined TheSalvation Army by differentavenues. While Taylor is a sixth-gen-eration Salvationist, Bill came to theArmy for employment. Seeing the

ministry up-close, he wanted to be abigger part of it. Bill now works forMetropolitan DivisionalHeadquarters as corps communitycenter advancement manager todevelop outreach and evangelismprograms. As an intern at the DesPlaines, Ill., Corps, Taylor is

involved in many different aspectsof ministry. Bill and Taylor will enterthe College for Officer Training(CFOT) with their four-month-oldson, Joshua. Their corps officers areMajors Steve and Morag Yoder.

OF THE

2011 - 20131 Corinthians 15:12-19

Newestacceptedcandidates

Campaigning for Christ

quick, but efficient,education in thechallenges andopportunities indeveloping this com-munity center.We were able to par-

ticipate in some of the bridge-build-ing activities underway to createrelationships in the surroundingneighborhoods. At the nearest ele-mentary school, we were able tochat and play with children duringtheir recess. At a local middleschool, we spoke with students andparents about the opportunities soonto be available to them. We also can-

vassed the neigh-borhood and pre-sented residentswith informationon programs andservices, includingyouth, fitness, and

senior activities, that will be offered.There is excitement in the air asmany families look forward to theKroc Center opening in September.We were blessed to become part of

the ministry team at the Green BayCorps. My brigade participated inyouth and young adult programs,Bible studies, women’s and men’sministries, and senior center activi-

ties. We alsoserved meals inthe corps’ dailylunch program.Perhaps one ofthe most fun

aspects was hosting afamily carnival promoting theupcoming vacation Bible school. Theweek culminated with a Sundaymorning packed with worship, cele-brating how great it is to know andbe known by our loving God.While this may not have been an

average spring campaign, we leftwith the familiar feeling experiencedby cadets anytime we venture intothe territory. We go hoping to blessthose we encounter but return find-ing we have been blessed to partici-pate in the work God is doingthrough the officers, soldiers andfriends of The Salvation Army.

Iwas thrilled to learn mybrigade would be travelingnorth to Green Bay, Wis., inmy home division. I knew

we could expect a warm wel-come, gracious hospitality, and acorps full of vibrant ministry.What I didn’t know was that

this wasn’t going to be an averagecampaign opportunity! GreenBay is about to become home toone of the new, state-of-the-artRay and Joan Kroc CorpsCommunity Centers which will bestarting a new congregation. Thismeant my brigade would not only beplugged in to a busy corps, but we’dreceive a quick and powerful educa-tion in “all things Kroc.”We arrived in Green Bay to find a

busy team of employees workingdiligently in a small temporaryoffice just down the street from theKroc Center construction site. Thisteam of Kroc and Brown CountySalvation Army employees met withus throughout the week, teaching ustheir areas of expertise, includingdevelopment, program, marketing,operations and more! We received a

Every year cadets from the College for Officer Training embark on anexciting week-long mission opportunity known as spring campaigns.This year eight brigades traveled across the territory to corps andinstitutions proclaiming Jesus Christ. Here’s Cadet Jason Bigelow’sfirst-person experience.

Cadets CorpsKirsten Aho St. Joseph County, Ind., Kroc CenterJohn & Kerry Bartsch Plymouth, Mich.Brian Bump Traverse City, Mich.Jasen & Kimberly Elcombe Kankakee, Ill.Bryan & Teri Ellison Dearborn Heights Citadel, Mich.John & Judith Fetzer Midland, Mich.Melissa Heatwole Rapid City, S.D.Shane & Jeanette Jensen Livingston County, Mich.Pamela Kasten Kansas City Northland, Mo.Karissa Loos Waukesha, Wis.Daryl & Cherie Mangeri Oak Creek Centennial, Wis.Matthew & Marisa McCluer Bismarck, N.D.Lorna Nelson Belleville, Ill.Esteban & Karen Pommier Springfield, Mo.Melissa Richardson Omaha, Neb., Kroc CenterWilliam & Larisha Richardson Decatur, Ill.Kevin & Mary Robbins Lafayette, Ind.Raymond Roberson Kansas City Bellefontaine, Mo.Jacob & Melinda Tripp Wichita Citadel, Kan.Tomas & Martha Valladeres Elgin, Ill.Elizabeth Wright St Louis Gateway Citadel, Mo.

Cadet summer assignmentsThe Friends of Christ will serve in the following locations this summer.

challenges, Dana hasn’t looked back.She finds joy in the journey by help-ing people spiritually, mentally andemotionally. With parents who arealso officers, Dana feels blessed toshare the benefit of her happyupbringing and loving family withothers.“There are so many people out

there hurting; I want to be able toshare the love and joy I’ve experi-enced with them,” she said.One of the most rewarding aspects

of her first appointment is seeingGod use her desires and abilities inways she didn’t expect.

“I’ve gotten evenmore opportuni-ties to do thethings I lovethan I couldhave imagined,”Dana said. “Ilead the corps’youth ministries,travel, participate on praiseteams and experience thingsI’d never dreamed of. If I hadfollowed my own plan, I’d stillbe in Nebraska.”To top it all off, if it weren’tfor officership Dana might notbe marrying the love of her life,Jason Bigelow. They met in

There’s a differencebetween a good lifeand a great life,” saidLt. Dana Hixenbaugh,

Aurora, Ill., associate corpsofficer, who knows undoubted-ly officership is her calling. “Icould never have experiencedthe height of peace and joydoing anything else,” she said.Before officership Dana

planned to be an elementaryschool teacher. In spite of thesmall voice urging her to be anofficer, she tried to compro-mise with God. “I’ll teach bytrade but attend the Army as asoldier,” she said.Three times the Lord called

her to officership using thesame verse in Isaiah, “Then Iheard the voice of the Lord say-ing, ‘Whom shall I send? Andwho will go for us?’ And I said,‘Here am I. Send me.’” (Isaiah 6:8,NIV)Dana recalled, “I finally said to the

Lord, ‘Send me!’”The transition this past year from

the College for Officer Training intofulltime ministry has been good butchallenging. Although busy frommorning to night at the college andthen at the corps, she found trainingmuch more structured; time withthe Lord was built into the schedule,and learning situations wereplanned, not spontaneous.After meeting time-management

teams random household items andchallenged us to devise programsbased on them. Results includedhomemade spa days, “spiritual gift”parties, nature walks, Passover Sederdinners, global-culture “Skype-fests”and more!Proving that creativity can change

everything, Linda Faye Jones,women’s ministries administrativeassistant, did the impossible whenshe made learning about statisticsfun! She used M&M’s to representpeople and reminded cadets statis-tics reflect on their ministry.Major Lisa Frost, Independence,

Mo., corps officer, conducted theenrollment of Cadets Laura Amickand Linda McCormick as membersof The Salvation Army’s Women’sMinistries. Lt. Colonel DorothySmith, territorial officer resourceand development secretary, asked usto “Consider the Lilies” in her devo-tion at the annual luncheon.

The afternoon sessionoffered a carousel of pro-gramming ideas fromMajor Gay Ann Fulton(Bible study), MajorMarty Hudson (ladies’nights out), MajorCharlene Polsley (knittingand felting), Major LeeAnn Thompson (fundrais-ing) and Lilibeth Rapleyand Ingrid Leyva (out-reach events).

by Cadet Cindy Marquis

Creativity and energyabounded at the Women’sMinistries Seminar at theCollege for Officer

Training, which was attended notonly by women cadets but men aswell!Major Carol Wilkins, territorial

associate secretary for women’sministries, led the cadets in a gameof Jeopardy in which categorieswere related to the history, activitiesand guidelines of women’s min-istries. It was a fun way to learn theessentials! Then Major DarleneHarvey, congregational life officerfor the Chicago, Ill., Ray and JoanKroc Corps Community Center,shared her insights on balancingministry.Our creative minds were put to

the test when Major CharlenePolsley, territorial assistant secretaryfor women’s ministries, gave cadet

training last year and plan to be mar-ried right after his commissioningthis June.“Jason is above and beyond what I

could have imagined as my ministrypartner and husband to be,” Danasaid. “His abilities complementmine, and he spurs me on in myrelationship with Christ!”

Here am I;send me!

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Cadets schooled in women’s ministries

A cadet enthusiastically responds to a Jeopardygame featuring women’s ministries categories.

Dana and her fiancé, Jason Bigelow, met in train-ing and plan to be married in June.

Dana had the great honor of being ordained and commis-sioned by now retired General Shaw Clifton last June.

Throughout the last year Dana has worked diligently to serve the Aurora Corps youth ministry.

David and Laura AmickBecky BarringerJason BigelowJeremy Fingar

Richard and Linnea ForneyLynn LopezCynthia MarquisLinda McCormickRodney and Kristina Morin

William RutledgeDaniel and Claudia SimmonsRandy and Debbie StahlJulie Tamayo

Ambassadors of Holiness

Pray for these cadets as they prepare for their ordination andcommissioning as lieutenants and receive their first appointments onSunday, June 12, 2011, in Merrillville, Ind.

Major Lisa Frost and Major Carol Wilkins address cadets.

Male cadets also learned much aboutwomen’s ministries.

“

L6 Lessons from my motherby Captain Lisa Mueller

received a call from one of hergood friends who said mom toldher if we ever got to this point totell the girls to read her journals.We thought they were our inheri-tance, but mom had somethingelse in mind. They returned to usour mother who could speak, readand write. While spending 14-16hours a day at her bedside, weread her precious journals. Lifelessons were on every page.

We read her adventures of theday: doctor appointments, goingson at her corps, travels with myfather. We read her prayers. Herentries reflected a godly womanwho wanted to be with her Saviorbut who also wanted to keep liv-ing. She knew it’s not about dying;it’s about living.

When I got on an air-plane after Thanksgiving, Ithought I was going to seeher die. She’d always saidshe wanted her daughtersto gather and sing her intothe presence of her Savior.So we gathered; we sang.We covered the song book—and then some. We prayed.We cried. We reminisced.We pleaded with God toend her suffering. Severaltimes we thought she wasgone; then she would wakeup and mumble. My sisters

were pretty sure itsounded like, “Goodgirls.” I’m notentirely convincedshe wasn’t saying,“Good grief, girls.”The doctors justshook their heads.The nurses saidelaborate good-byes before theirdays off. But shewasn’t dying.

As hoursturned into daysand days intoweeks, we beganto ask ourselveswhat was goingon. One by one,we began towonder if it

The three things my moth-er most enjoyed werespeaking, reading andwriting. These were the

things she was good at. Thesewere the things she loved. I can’tthink of a better preacher, male orfemale. She simply devouredbooks, first her Bible, thenChristian literature, and even thelatest mystery thriller. Her pen pallist was a mile long. She wrote tosomeone from every city she’dever lived in and correspondedwith 10 inmates.

The irony was not lost on mysisters and me that the thingsshe most loved to do were thevery things a stroke renderedher incapable of doing.

In 1992 she began the disciplineof journaling. Her journals con-tained her activities, thoughts andprayers—glimpses into her spiritu-al journey. When she finished ayear of journaling, she labeled theseries of books for one of her fivedaughters and then proceeded tothe next year. The irony was notlost on my sisters and me that thethings she most loved to do werethe very things a stroke renderedher incapable of doing. Shebecame ill in July and byThanksgiving had another setback.Doctors said the damage was irre-versible and it was only a matterof time before she died. I traveledto Michigan for what I thoughtwere her final days.

My sisters and I began to mournthe loss of her wisdom and advice.You see, my mom had held ourfamily together all our lives. As webegan to contemplate life withouther, we became desperate. Weweren’t ready. We couldn’t imag-ine life without this spiritual giant.So we began to pray God wouldteach us in those last days whatHe wanted us to know from ourmother’s life.

She knew it’s not about dying;it’s about living.

How were five faltering daugh-ters with their own families andministries going to make it with-out some parting wisdom? I

was possible—just possible—thatwe had been summoned not towatch her die but live? And toread the journals she had sopainstakingly kept for such a timeas this? So, we began to watch mymother live. We read her wordsand learned about her life and hergreat love for our father. We readher prayers and realized her lifewas a prayer. The journalsrevealed her innermost thoughtsand heart cries, joys and sorrows,sins, confessions and reconcilia-tion to God.

I stopped asking God why Hehadn’t taken her home andbegan asking Him what I couldlearn.

I stopped asking God why Hehadn’t taken her home and beganasking Him what I could learn. Heclearly had something else inmind. Can you think of any othercircumstance that could take fiveofficers away from their appoint-ments at Christmas? I believe thattime in my life was ordained so Icould learn again how to be recon-ciled to Him, how to have thehope of Heaven while living, notdying.

My mother sometimes failed.She disappointed herself and her

7

Heavenly Father. Thanks to herjournals, I know more than I everwanted about this. However, shetook to heart Philippians 3:13-14:“…But one thing I do: Forgettingwhat is behind and strainingtoward what is ahead, I press ontoward the goal to win the prizefor which God has called meheavenward in Christ Jesus.”

Though painful memories arestamped on our hearts and minds,we don’t have to be imprisoned byour pasts. Perhaps we’ve said ordone the wrong thing. Maybewe’ve failed relationships. We’vefailed our children or parents. Allof us have failed ourselves. ButGod’s Word says don’t be boggeddown by past failures. Dwellingon them will stop us from movingforward. I became a mother at age20. Did I make mistakes? You bet Idid. I do to this day. But we mustlearn to get over it.

My mom confessed her failingsand pressed on. In her journals,she doesn’t dwell on the past. If itwas covered, it was covered.Christ died on that cross to offerus forgiveness. We need to forgiveourselves and each other. “Bearwith each other and forgive what-ever grievances you may haveagainst one another. Forgive as theLord forgave you.” Col. 3:13

In her journals, she doesn’tdwell on the past. If it wascovered, it was covered.

I was astonished to learn fromher journals there were some peo-ple she actually didn’t like! Shewasn’t perfect. She was temptedto hold an occasional grudge. Ofcourse, it never lasted. Within afew paragraphs she was pouringout her heart to God, asking Hisforgiveness. She knew grudgesdestroy marriages, break up fami-lies, ruin friendships, split church-es. They are not only destructiveto others but to ourselves. Harbora grudge, and it can destroy you—if not physically, then emotionallyand certainly spiritually.

Jesus told a parable about a ser-vant who was forgiven a hugedebt by the king and then refusedto forgive someone else a tiny

amount. The unforgivingservant landed in prison.Unforgiving servantsalways end up in prison—prisons of anger, guilt anddepression. But we can beset free. Can you forgiveyour parents for what theyhave or haven’t done? Canyou forgive your childrenfor not living up to your dreamsfor them? Can you forgive a friendwho betrayed you? God says deep-seated resentment has to go.Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possi-ble, as far as it depends on you,live at peace with everyone.” Doall you can to restore relation-ships. It may mean asking for for-giveness, but God will empower

you. For you see while Christ diedto set us free, the Holy Spirit givesus the power to be free.

Her spiritual walk never becamemechanical or ritualistic.

I found that my mother, thewoman I thought perfect, strug-gled with sin. Yet, she cried out to

God for forgivenessand awareness ofher transgressions.She wanted to knowher shortcomings.She never thoughtshe’d arrived. Herspiritual walk neverbecame mechanicalor ritualistic. She laidher strength andweaknesses beforeGod daily. She realizedone simple and seem-ingly insignificantungodly habit canbecome a besetting sin.She didn’t offer excusesor rationalize behavior.

She knew our opportunity for wit-ness, ministry and service is jeop-ardized when we live with ungod-ly thoughts, words or deeds.

I returned home in Decemberbecause my mother was still liv-ing. I didn’t understand then, butI do now. If my mother had diedthat first night, what lessonswould I have learned?

She lingered for 10 long months,under the gentle care of hospicefor the last five. I journeyed hometo Michigan yet again for Mother’sDay. Leaving my own family, I satby her side and continued to learnas she lay living. Somehow, I wasnot surprised she lived until mysister Carol gave birth to beautifulIsabel. Mom promised she’d liveto see this grandchild. And afterbeing comatose for three days,when Isabel was placed on herchest, my mother managed to lifther hand to bless Isabel’s life andkiss her head.

I found that my mother,the woman I thought perfect,struggled with sin. Yet she criedout to God for forgiveness.

While some might questionthose months of pain and linger-ing, my dad took every day to saygoodbye. I was honored to seemom pass from death to life. Iheld her hand and watched mymother—the one who gave birth tome, loved me when I didn’tdeserve it, forgave me easily andtaught me how to love—enterHeaven.

Having been in a coma for sev-eral days, her eyes opened clearand bright. Her face glowed; herwrinkles faded. She looked towardHeaven and said, “Oh!” Two sis-ters and I looked at each other. Weknew beyond a doubt she’d justseen Jesus! We knew. Having wit-nessed this miracle, no one canever tell me there is no Heaven,no Savior. Her last moment onearth taught me that. It sealed inmy heart forever that it’s all real,that this life matters because wehave eternal life.

Scripture from NIV, 1984

Captain Lisa Mueller and her hus-band, Robert, are corps officers at theSt. Paul Citadel, Minn., Corps. Lisa’ssisters, Major Cindy Strickler, Lt.Colonel Susan Bukiewicz, Major LoriMeyer and Major Carol Wurtz all servewith their husbands in the CentralTerritory.

88

by Captain Jeff Carr

My wife, Valerie, and Iare privileged to leadthe vibrant and grow-ing Madrid Central

Corps (Spain Command). Our prede-cessors built an amazing ministry,and we are honored to continue thiswork alongside dedicated soldiers.Madrid Central has a full array of

corps programs and social outreachministries. With the CentralTerritory’s help, the corps recentlypurchased a new van, a necessity forthe corps’ work throughout the com-munity. The van is used for corpsprogramming, weekly street feeding,food distribution and much more; itadvances the scope and depth of theArmy’s mission in Madrid.One of our most significant min-

istries is to Madrid’s homeless, manyof whom depend on it. Every Fridaynight volunteers cook and distributebowls of soup and sandwiches tothose on the streets, meeting notonly their physical but spiritualneeds. Through this program we’vewitnessed amazing transformationsas men and women have come toChrist. In fact, some of our most ded-icated soldiers were once ministeredto through this program. In conjunc-tion with our corps breakfast pro-

gram, the Armyin Madrid isknown for givinghelp and restor-ing hope.Last Christmas

the corps councilchanged the waywe distributeAngel Tree gifts.Instead of par-ents coming tocorps, uni-formed soldiersdelivered the presents to each fami-ly, meeting them face-to-face andoffering to pray with them. Many ofthese families are part of our after-school program where our volun-teers are a positive witness to theyouth. Through all of our social out-

reach programs we have seen indi-viduals and families come to ourSunday worship services and joinour weekly corps programs.Last summer the Madrid Central

Corps sent two delegates each toCentral Bible and LeadershipInstitute and Central Music Institutewith the Central Territory’s help.This was an incredible opportunityfor our youth to grow in their faith,understanding of the global Army,

and leadership training to advanceour local Army.It has been an amazing personal

and spiritual journey in ministry,working side-by-side with the dedi-cated soldiers of the Madrid CentralCorps.

An amazing journey

crafts to sell with the goal of raising$200 for Haiti’s children. She tookher products to school and set up atable in the teacher’s lounge. Someof them not only bought items butasked Mikayla to pray for their ownfamilies. She also set up her table inthe Independence, Mo., Corps foyerand at the divisional women’s camp.All totaled, $300 was sent to Major

Robert Doliber to be used for Haiti’schildren. The funds were used topurchase material to make uniformsfor children at the BethanyChildren's Home.

by Lt. Colonel Ruth Bonifield

Nine-year-old MikaylaDixon is a busyyoung lady. She’s asunbeam, junior sol-

dier, ballerina, member of herschool choir and—perhapsmost importantly—a prayerwarrior. She’s prayed like thissince she was a little child.Early in life when somethingunusual would happen, she’dask her mother, “Have youprayed about it?”Her prayers right now are

especially focused on the chil-dren of Haiti. Even before theearthquake in Haiti, Mikaylawas burdened for them.Though her parents, Mike andCarrie, are careful about whatshe watches on TV, believingmuch of it too graphic for theirchildren, Mikayla once saw atelevision show about fivestreet children in Haiti whobathed in muddy water inun-dated with trash. It broke her heart.Last year, like many other fami-

lies, the Dixons participated in “AMillion Meals for Haiti,” packingmeals for people in that country.When they saw a television inter-view about the items being distrib-uted to families, Mikayla was grati-fied to know she’d been a part. Shewrote in her journal that she wantedto give all of her money to the chil-dren of Haiti.So, when Mikayla’s grandmother

gave her a children’s craft book, anidea unfolded. She began making

A heart for Haiti’s children

I am very grateful for foreign aidand help, especially from the UnitedStates and other territories. Mostimportantly, I am thankful forprayers that have been offered onour behalf. Even now, this disasterhas not stopped the Japan Territoryfrom praying for our brothers andsisters around the world in our THQand personal devotions. We aremindful that we are part of a globalfamily of God, and we must contin-ue to lift each other up to the throneof God’s rich and boundless grace.I recommend we all take time to

read 2 Corinthians 1:3-11. I amthankful for God who comforts us inany situation. But we are not tohoard that comfort. We are chal-lenged to share it with others whodesperately need it. Sometimes, wefeel the sentence of death in ourhearts (whether physical or spiritu-al), and we are reminded to placeour faith and trust in God, who isour only real hope.

by Captain Christopher Marques

One month after the mas-sive earthquake andtsunami, people are goingabout their business,

returning to work, enjoying theirfree time and moving about the cityhere in Tokyo. But deep down, manyare still shaken by the continuingaftershocks and pollution from thenuclear plant at Fukushima.I had been here a little over two

months and was still at the begin-ning stages of adapting before allthis happened. Not being fully fluentyet has given me a lot of time tothink, be quiet, listen more andspeak less. And recent events havepushed me to work, serve, pray andread God’s Word like I never have.Disaster and danger are always

possibilities no matter where youlive. This disaster has challenged yetanother generation of Japaneseabout what really matters. Yet, asthings return to normal, I fear peo-ple gradually may forget, just as therest of the world will move on. Afterreading Matthew 7:24-27, I pray thiswill not be a lost opportunity forpeople to rebuild the foundation oftheir lives on Jesus Christ.Since the time of the Old

Testament, not much has changed.We are still a people who cry out forGod’s help, but quickly tend toreturn to our former ways or forgetabout Him. This is perhaps thegreatest danger we face, no matterwhere we live. It’s far more deadlythan any disaster or physical harmwe might face.

Though the earth shakeCaptain Christopher Marques from the USA Central Territoryarrived in Tokyo at the beginning of February to serve as assistantto the territorial youth secretary at Japan Territorial Headquarters(THQ). Here are his reflections on the disasters this spring.

9

ents for piano lessons.“While other parents were forcing

their kids to practice, I was beingconstantly asked to stop!” Meghanrecalled.Throughout high school Meghanremained involved at her corpsalong with marching band, fourchoral groups and school musicals.Her choral director guided Meghaninto music education; she earned abachelor of music arts degree inchoral music education with anemphasis in piano performancefrom North Central College,Naperville, Ill. Meghan’s first teach-ing job almost became her last,however!“I walked into the middle schoolon my first day thinking I was goingto change the world. Instead, Ifound gangs and insubordination,”said Meghan who changed every-thing about her teaching style to cap-ture her students’ interest and tohelp them have fun while theylearned the fundamentals.Needing a job closer to home after

her daughter’s birth, Meghan

switched to elementary education;wiggly, weepy kindergartnersbecame her biggest challenge! Oncemore she figured out how to capti-vate her students.However, it wasn’t until Meghan

taught a class ofseverely dis-abled childrenthat she realizedthe full value ofmusic educa-tion. She said,“It’s not aboutperformance butabout the joystudents getfrom creatingtheir own music.Where wordsfail, musicspeaks.”

Me g h a nPierson,an accom-p l i s h e d

musician, singer andChicago Staff Bandmember, was recentlyhonored as music edu-cator of the year by herschool district. Sheteaches at GlennWestlake MiddleSchool in Lombard,Ill., and attends theOakbrook Terrace, Ill.,Corps with her hus-band and daughter.Meghan is in the bandand songsters, leadssinging company andgives private pianolessons.During the school day Meghan

teaches general music and holdschoir rehearsals before and afterschool hours.

“Two years ago I started with 22singers; today we have three choirstotaling more than 80 students,” saidMeghan. “I truly feel blessed to be inthis position.Administration believesin teaching the wholechild and is in full sup-port of the fine arts.”Meghan continued,

“Music education notonly increases cognitivedevelopment, standard-ized test scores and rea-soning capabilities, itoffers students an outletto express themselves.In a world sometimesdevoid of beauty for ourchildren, music comesto the rescue time andagain.”After her older sister

joined sunbeams, Meghan’s familybegan attending The Salvation Armyin suburban Detroit when she wasthree years old. When Meghan wasage five her sister taught her how toplay the C-scale on the alto horn; ayear later Meghan begged her par-

into the Dingledine Music Hall onthe campus of Bradley University tohear Bandmaster William Himesand the CSB. Those in attendancealso enjoyed a Salvation Army mem-orabilia display in the foyer, includ-ing a presentation from a SalvationArmy Doughnut Girl.The band concluded the weekend

by participating in two Sunday ser-vices at Bethany Baptist Church.The Salvation Army in Peoria will

highlight Evangeline Booth at itsannual community luncheon thismonth and will hold a specialanniversary gala this fall. The galawill feature an historical retrospec-tive on The Salvation Army in Peoriaand will include a special video andpast divisional leaders to wrap up itsanniversary celebration.

by Rich Draeger

TheChicagoStaff Band( C S B )h e l p e d

kick off festivitiesthis spring to com-memorate the125th anniversaryof The SalvationArmy in Peoria.The band spent

Saturday at thePeoria Corps withabout 150 youthand leaders for adivisional music day and thenbrought their talents to bear at anevening concert.Approximately 140 people filed

CSB kicks off Peoria celebrationWhen words fail, music speaks

Young singers follow Meghan in vocal exercises that includestretching.

One of Meghan’s young piano studentsplays under her watchful eye.

Meghan poses with the Chicago Staff Band alto horn section.

Dr. Stephen CobbDr. Stephen Cobb, territorial music director for the

United Kingdom Territory, has been the bandmasterof the International Staff Band (ISB) since 1994. Amusic educator by profession and training, he com-pleted the degree of doctor of musical arts in instru-mental conducting in 2006 at Salford University.Steve has led the ISB through an exciting period of

innovation that has raised the band’s profile signifi-cantly in the music world. His innovative leadershipin Salvation Army music has brought a renewedvigor to that great musical tradition. In 2010 hereceived the Iles Medal of the Worshipful Companyof Musicians for his contributions to brass bands and their music.

Cathie KoehnenCathie Koehnen received her bachelor’s of

music degree at McMaster University,Hamilton, Ontario, and her bachelor’s ofeducation degree at the University ofToronto. She has been the vocal guest atmany divisional camps and has been on thefaculty of the Canada and BermudaTerritorial School of Music for many years.Cathie has taught high school instrumental

and vocal music for 17 years, has a businessteaching piano and currently conducts theOntario Central Divisional Youth Chorus.She lives in suburban Toronto with her hus-band, Peter, and two sons, David and Jesse.

CMI continues its tradition of excellence withtwo international guests.

Central Music InstituteAugust 11 – 21, 2011 Camp Wonderland

Meghan particularly enjoys directing performance groups.

10

Western Wall

“I never knew prayers left at theWestern Wall were kept and buried;it was such a blessing to pray andphysically leave burdens there.”

—Major Jan Sjogren

En Gedi Springs

“Walking up to the springs at EnGedi brought to mind the story ofDavid fleeing Saul and seeking refugethere. Being in this Promised Land hasblessed me; He’s my strength andredeemer.” —Major Kathy Hogg

Holy Land impressions

In the last month you may havenoticed television commercialsencouraging viewers to consid-er making a legacy gift to The

Salvation Army through their willsor by obtaining charitable gift annu-ities.This national campaign features

airtime on popular television net-works including CNN, A&E, CNBC,Lifetime and more. Additional com-ponents include 30- and 60-secondradio advertisements, print ads andweb based banner ads and pop-ups.

The Richards Group, a public rela-tions firm that’s worked with theArmy on a few promotional cam-paigns in recent years, developed thepoignant commercial featuring real-life donors on why they support TheSalvation Army through plannedgiving.“Like many other campaigns the

Richards Group has done for us, it’snot the Army talking; it’s others talk-ing about the Army,” said DavidHimes, territorial planned givingconsultant.

The Bay City,M i c h . ,Corps, ledby Majors

Micheal and ShirleyMyers, recently dedi-cated its new barrier-free building in apacked celebrationservice. Attendeesspilled over into anadjacent room occu-pying all 220 seatsavailable betweenboth spaces.The service flowed

with musical accom-paniment from the Flint CitadelBand and special guest appearancesby District State Senator Mike Greenand State Representative CharlesBrunner. Bay City Mayor ChrisShannon honored the Army by pre-senting Lt. Colonel Norman S.

Marshall, Eastern Michigan divi-sional commander, and Lt. ColonelJeffrey Smith, territorial secretaryfor personnel, with a plaque and“key to the city” for its commitmentand dedication to the community.

Colonel Smith gave the dedicatoryaddress to a crowd consisting of sol-diers, beneficiaries, advisory boardmembers and donors. In his messagehe challenged the corps to reach outto fill the new building with peoplefrom the community. Others, suchas Bay City resident John Tripp andsoldier Vina Wisniewski, expressedappreciation for the Army andexcitement over the new building.The corps and advisory board

have prayed for this new barrier-freebuilding to accommodate the needsof their congregation and communi-ty for more than 25 years. Prior tothe new building, the corps was verydifficult for disabled or wheelchair-bound individuals to access.The new 10,000-square-foot facili-

ty welcomes everyone to enjoy itsspacious chapel, state-of-the-artkitchen, comfortable dining roomand updated computer lab. In addi-tion to creating space for congrega-tional growth, the building will cre-ate opportunities for collaborationwith other organizations. Alreadytwo local groups, including theUnited Way, have contacted the

Army about joint serviceopportunities.According to MajorMicheal, God’s leadingand provision were clearthrough the process. “Ithank God for the mira-cles accomplishedthrough the donors, sol-diers and everyone whoshared this dream,” hesaid. “Once God gave usa green light, everythingelse fell into place.”

Promoting planned giving

Rebuilt, barrier-free building

Majors Shirley and Mike Myers paid tribute to Jim Klemm,Bay City volunteer of the year.

Bay City Mayor Chris Shannon presented Lt. Colonel NormanS. Marshall with a key to the city.

Lt. Colonel Jeffrey Smith shares an insight-ful dedicatory address.

Participants from this year’s Biblical Education Tour (at 90 peoplethe largest in seven years) were asked to share their thoughts as thegroup visited significant locations. Here are just a few of the sitesand impressions made.

Masada

“We may leave this land with sore muscles, but we have a new song in ourhearts for Israel. We arrived as pilgrims on a journey but will return homeblessed beyond measure.” —Major Christie Van Zee

Sea of Galilee

“The boat ride on the Sea of Galilee wasinspirational; we worshiped together in songand spirit. [A crew member shared a] testi-mony of coming to know Jesus as he tookChristian groups out on the sea. May ourlights so shine before men!”

—Anonymous

Prayer in Garden

“Making a third pilgrimageallowed me to reflect on pasttrips. My circumstances havechanged but memories, suchas Gethsemane’s peacefulserenity, continue to calmmy soul. The Christ whobore sorrow and pain…drawsnear when I need Him.”

—Major Wes Green

June Prayer Calendar

My Prayer List

Go to www.prayercentralusa.org for prayer updates.

If you follow the prayer calendar in the next year, you will haveread through the Bible!

Day

1Wednesday

2 Thursday

3 Friday

4 Saturday

5 Sunday

6 Monday

7 Tuesday

8Wednesday

9 Thursday

10 Friday

11 Saturday

12 Sunday

13 Monday

14 Tuesday

15Wednesday

16 Thursday

17 Friday

18 Saturday

19 Sunday

20 Monday

21 Tuesday

22Wednesday

23 Thursday

24 Friday

25 Saturday

26 Sunday

27 Monday

28 Tuesday

29Wednesday

30 Thursday

Bible Reading

Jeremiah 47-52

Luke 7-8

Galatians 1-3

Exodus 37-40

1 Kings 5-9

Psalms 66-68

Proverbs 2-3

Lamentations

Luke 9-10

Galatians 4-6

Leviticus 1-3

1 Kings 10-13

Psalms 69-71

Proverbs 4

Ezekiel 1-6

Luke 11-12

Ephesians 1-3

Leviticus 4-6

1 Kings 14-18

Psalms 72-74

Proverbs 5-6

Ezekiel 7-12

Luke 13-14

Ephesians 4-6

Leviticus 7-9

1 Kings 19-22

Psalms 75-77

Proverbs 7

Ezekiel 13-18

Luke 15-16

Pray for The Salvation Army

Adrian, Mich., Corps

Chicago (Central), Ill., ARC*

Lt. Colonels Bradford &Heidi Bailey (England)

Bloomington, Ill., Corps

Anderson, Ind., Corps

Arkansas City, Kan., Corps

Aurora, Ill., Corps

Congo (Brazzaville) Territory PIM

Alton, Ill., Corps

Albert Lea, Minn., Corps

Aberdeen, S.D., Corps

“Ambassadors of Holiness”Session

Alma, Mich., Corps

Beloit, Wis., Corps

Eastern Michigan DHQ**

Alpena, Mich., Corps

Burlington, Iowa, Corps

Bedford, Ind., Corps

Dodge City, Kan., Corps

Belvidere, Ill., Corps

Kirsten Witthoff(Republic of Georgia)

Arnold, Mo., Corps

Austin, Minn., Corps

Beatrice, Neb., Corps

Battle Creek, Mich., Corps

Eau Claire, Wis., Corps

Chicago (North Side), Ill., ARC

Summer Mission Teams

Ann Arbor, Mich., Corps

Canton, Ill., Corps

* = Adult Rehabilitation Center** = Divisional HeadquartersPIM = Partners in Mission

11

Last year InternationalHeadquarters changed thejunior soldier promise toalign the wording globally.

While this has not changed theessence of the promise, it has affect-ed the curriculum. The newly editedTotally His junior soldier prepara-tion course is now available. Itreflects the wording adjustmentsand includes resources like enroll-ment checklists and junior soldierdedication ceremonies.For those who are new or who are

unfamiliar with the junior soldierprogram, it starts with Totally His.Children begin the discipleship jour-ney at a young age with this prepa-ration course. In six lessons, thematerial helps prospective juniorsoldiers understand the meaningand biblical basis for the promise. Italso introduces Salvation Army his-tory, terms and ministry. Mostimportantly, it gives each child theopportunity to make a decision toreceive Christ.The territorial youth department

will provide the new edition ofTotally His at no charge to corpsthat request it. Corps officers candownload the new material from adatabase on Lotus Notes or canemail the territorial youth depart-ment at USC Youth/USC/SArmy.

Totally His updated

12

Continued from page 1

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, MO.—This year corps members wanted to thank and affirm local firstresponders for their courage and dedication to the community. During a special Sunday ser-vice Kansas and Western Missouri Divisional Commander Major Charles Smith sharedwords of appreciation, and Major Sharon Smith offered a prayer of dedication and protectionover them. Corps members participated by baking goodies for gift bags. Before the servicewas over, Auxiliary Captain Chuck Cook, who leads the corps with his wife, Dana, remindedeveryone, “What we run away from, these fine individuals run to!” Last year the corps heldtheir first affirmation service for leaders and soldiers.

Around the territory

Major Randall SjögrenOn March

22, 2011,M a j o rR a n d a l lSjögren waspromoted toGlory withhis family byhis side. Heslipped awayat only 57years old.He was born to Bertil and Betty in

St. Paul, Minn., just five minutesafter his identical twin and bestfriend, Russell. Rand excelled inmusic and participated in manycorps activities surrounding thispassion. After high school Rand andRuss attended college before beingcalled to officership.While in training Rand and Russ

met the Garrington sisters, Debbieand Jan, whose parents were sta-tioned at the college. The girls wereimmediately drawn to the blondetwins from Minnesota. After com-missioning Rand and Debbie were

Promoted to Glory

married on June 16, 1976; Russ andJan married exactly one year later.The Sjögrens served in nearly

every avenue of officership fromcorps to divisional, territorial,national and international headquar-ters. Having completed a degree inbusiness management after training,Rand excelled in finance and busi-ness administration and particularlycherished his experience overseas asan international auditor.Rand was a quiet, gentle man and

is remembered as a sterling exampleof holiness, a gifted musician and adevoted family man who will begreatly missed.He was preceded in death by his

granddaughter, Abigail Seiler. He issurvived by the love of his life,Debbie; daughters Evie (Kevin)Polsley and Erika (Bryan) Seiler;granddaughter Ellie; siblings MajorRussell (Jan), Karen (Russ)Marschinke, James (Petra), Lt.Colonel Daniel (Rebecca), Doug(Barb) and many beloved nieces andnephews.

Asmall notice in an April1925 War Cry announcedthe acquisition of land in anew cemetery just west of

Chicago as “a suitable burying placefor Salvationists who have laid downtheir swords.”The next month on Memorial Day,

a large crowd gathered at Glen OakCemetery to hear CommissionerWilliam Peart dedicate this holy acreto God and those who’d spent theirlives in His service.The following May, a simple yet

elegant granite monument was dedi-cated at Glen Oak with great fan-fare. A 1926 War Cry reported sev-eral cars hadstopped on abusy road nearbyto enjoy the terri-torial staff bandand singing of themultitudes; manystayed through-out the service.“Just how far

God used themeeting toimpress theshortness of lifeon these [passers-

by], only the heavenly records cantell,” added the writer.In his dedicatory remarks,

Commissioner Peart referenced “thehonored dead who fought for thiscountry’s independence, those whofell in the Civil War and those whodied for the sake of liberty in thegreat World War.” Memorial wreathswere laid on five graves (reburials toconsecrate the ground, said the com-missioner). A large purple wreathwas suspended over the monument.Thus began the lovely and mean-

ingful tradition of an annual saluteto Salvationists with a MemorialDay remembrance service.

from across the world. He reportsmany of the stranded commuterswho were given food, drink andshelter on the night of the earth-quake sent letters of thanks, somewith a donation for the relief work.Centralite Captain Christopher

Marques, who arrived to serve atJapan’s territorial headquarters justweeks before the quake, reportedsevere aftershocks continued longafter the initial 9.0 quake.By early April, 12,468 people were

confirmed dead and 15,091 weremissing.

From International News Releases asof April 6, 2011

Saluting God’s warriors

Join us in rememberingIn honor of those who have gone before us,the Central Territory will hold its traditionalmemorial service in The Salvation Army sectionof Glen Oak Cemetery.

Sunday, May 22nd3:00 p.m.Glen Oak Cemetery4301 W. Roosevelt Rd.Hillside, IL 60162(708) 344-5600

States I have to come to HarborLight. It is my home. It is where Ifeel most loved. I accepted the Lordhere, and my life was changed for-ever.”David presented an American flag

to Major Ed Rowland, Harbor LightSystem director, and Envoy ArteeLewis, in charge of the Harbor LightCorps. He told how he had been apart of a team working to gain con-trol of the city of Marjah, the Talibancapital of Afghanistan. After amonth-long battle, they took control.David and his gunner rode in theirarmored vehicle through Marjahand spontaneously flew theAmerican flag. With tears in his

eyes, David explained howmotivating seeing the flagwaving was for the U.S.ground troops lining thestreets of the embattledarea.As David received a stand-ing ovation from those atthe Harbor Light, he said, “Iwanted this flag to be in aspecial place, and theHarbor Light will always bethat special place for me.”Lance Corporal Burton

expects to be deployed toAfghanistan again this year.Please pray for him.

by Major Sandy Rowland

Lives are changed every dayat the Detroit, Mich.,Harbor Light. The story ofMarine Lance Corporal

David Burton is a perfect example.In 2010, while on leave from

Camp Pendleton in California,David visited the Harbor Light toattend Sunday morning worship ser-vices. During the service he asked ifhe could make a presentation. In fulluniform, Burton told those present,“Two years ago I was a client atHarbor Light. I didn’t make it thefirst time—but I did make it the sec-ond! Whenever I am back in the

Harbor Light is like home

WARREN, MICH.—The corps hosted itssixth annual chili cook-off and family funevent to benefit corps programs. For mini-mal admission participants enjoyed a chilidinner and evening activities such as achili-tasting contest, bake sale and familyfun center complete with bounce houseand games. Corps Officers Majors Rogerand Joy Ross were thrilled by its success.

Japanese crisis