The Western Territory’s news source for 29 years March 11, 2011 • Vol. 29, No. 4 We’re not trying to raise up a great Salvation Army. We’re trying to bring people to the fullness of Jesus Christ. —Commissioner James Knaggs ~ ~ Frontlines ................................... 2 The West .................................... 2 The Musician ................................ 3 The Nation .................................. 4 The World ................................... 5 Promoted to Glory........................... 8 In Process .................................. 10 From the Desk of ........................... 10 Lifelines .................................... 11 On the Corner .............................. 11 Doing the Most Good Inside: The rates of ‘I do’ A recent Pew Research Center study shows a decline in mar- riage rates. See how the Army fares. Page 6 NATIONAL COMMANDER, page 4 U.S.A. National Leaders Commissioners William and Nancy Roberts Photo by Christin Davis n The Salvation Army responds to the increasing needs of quake vic- tims in New Zealand. BY BUFFY LINCOLN Continued escalation in welfare needs has resulted in The Salvation Army stepping up its ongoing response in New Zealand after the devastating 6.3 magnitude quake that hit Christchurch on Feb. 22. Although the Feb. 22 quake was of a smaller magnitude than the 7.1 one that hit in September 2010, the destruction of the second quake far outweighed that of the first—due to the temblor being closer to the earth’s surface—requiring larger distribution centers and more office space. “The situation in Christchurch is extremely serious,” Commissioner Don Bell, commander of the New Zealand, Fiji, and Tonga Territory, said. “The Salvation Army stands ready to continue to help the city in this terrible time of great grief and human need.” Major Robbie Ross, national fund- raising coordinator, noted that locals are still living with the psychological effects of the September quake; this new shock contributed another layer of grief for people already mourning for their loved ones and the loss of possessions and n Annual retreat draws biggest turnout in recent years. BY JOANNE LOUANGAMATH, CAPTAIN An Army of geared-up soldiers from all over the Western Territory convened at the College for Officer Training at Crestmont from Feb. 11-13, to take part in the Future Officers Fellowship (FOF) retreat— themed “IMPACT”—under the direction of Territorial Candidates and Recruitment Secretaries Majors John and Pamilla Brackenbury. This year marked the biggest turnout in recent years. Beginning with a pre-retreat on the Thursday prior, nearly 60 prospective and accepted candidates had the opportunity to dig deeper into the application process, finalizing details for their cases and getting to know the cadets and staff of the college. The cadet worship team kicked off the weekend Friday evening with exuberant praise, and (then) Training Principal and Campus Services Director Majors Steve and Marcia Smith gave the keynote. The Saturday morning session was led by Major Pamilla Brackenbury, who challenged the delegates saying, “God calls his people to impact others. Are you willing? Only you can answer that.” ‘Extremely serious’ Meet America’s newest national Salvation Army leaders n Commissioners Roberts in appoint- ment since November 2010 BY CHRISTIN DAVIS Commissioners William and Nancy Roberts arrived at The Salvation Army’s United States National Headquarters in November 2010 after 10 years of interna- tional appointments to take on leadership of the Army in the U.S., respectively, as the National Commander and National President of Women’s Ministries. Most recently, the Robertses spent three years as the first terri- torial command- ers to the newly established Kenya West Territory. “In Kenya West, The Salvation Army is strong and growing; we had to create infrastructure and develop a team,” William Roberts said. “Everyone in Kenya is so joyful and proud to be a Salvationist…it’s a holy pride; their lives are filled with joy because of Jesus. We were truly sorry to leave when the time came.” They previously served at International Headquarters, in Argentina, and numerous appointments within the Central Territory. Following their commissioning in 1971, the Robertses led three corps. “Every appointment prepares you in some regard,” William Roberts said. “As corps officers, we learned about getting to know A look inside National Headquarters On YouTube: http://tinyurl.com/ 69bnqdk On the New Frontier site: http://www.newfrontier publications.org/nf/2011 /03/a-look-inside-nhq/ A day in Christchurch n Commissioner Don Bell reflects on the damage in New Zealand. BY DON BELL, COMMISSIONER Western Territory officers Commissioners Don and Debi Bell currently serve as territo- rial leaders for New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga. They are based in Wellington, New Zealand. On Sunday, Feb. 27, Commissioner Don Bell traveled to Christchurch to assess the damage from the magnitude 6.3 earthquake of Feb. 22, and to come alongside Salvation Army officers, soldiers, volunteers and the people to whom the Army ministers. Arriving at Christchurch Airport, I observed long lines at the departure gates— clearly, people wanted to leave the area. CHRISTCHURCH, page 5 ‘IMPACT’ – 2011 Future Officers Fellowship Retreat Commissioner James Knaggs speaks to delegates at the Future Officers Fellowship Retreat. Photo by Bob Louangamath FUTURE OFFICERS FELLOWSHIP, page 2 NEW ZEALAND, page 5 Devastation in Christchurch Salvationists assemble to join Suburban Squad relief team in Christchurch, New Zealand. Photo by Chris Cope n Japanese Salvation Army emergency relief teams swing into action. The Salvation Army in Japan has three emergency service relief teams operating in areas devastated by the March 11 earth- quake—preliminary magnitude 8.9, later upped to 9.0—and the consequent tsunami that hit the northeast coast of the country last week. One of the teams is assisting evacuees from areas where there is potential danger because of damage to nuclear power gen- eration stations. The earthquake—the largest in Japan’s history—was also the fifth strongest earthquake worldwide in recorded history (records begin in 1900). The disaster affected a 2,000-kilometer (about 1,243 miles) north-south stretch of Japan. Official reports now state that more than 10,000 people are dead or missing. At this time there are no reports of any loss of Salvation Army personnel or damage to corps buildings. Immediately following the earthquake and tsunami, an assess- ment team was sent from Tokyo to Sendai (the city nearest the center of the earthquake). The journey—normally accomplished in six hours—took 20 hours. Road and rail systems have been severely affected. There is a shortage of gas, with many gas stations closed and lines up to three kilometers (about two miles) long at stations that are open. Arrangements are being made for emergency service personnel from The Salvation Army International Headquarters (IHQ) to go to Japan to assist with the Army’s relief effort. A number of Salvation Army territories have informed IHQ of financial and prayer support for the Army’s relief effort in Japan. The Salvation Army in South Korea has set aside the next four weeks specifically for prayer and fundraising for Japan. A Japan Disaster Fund appeal has been established at IHQ. Donations may be made online at salvationarmy.org or by tex- ting the word “quake” or “Japan” to 80888. From a Salvation Army international news release DISASTER STRIKES JAPAN
Transcript
The Western Territory’s news source for 29 years March 11, 2011 • Vol. 29, No. 4
We’re not trying to raise up a great Salvation Army. We’re trying to bring people to the fullness of Jesus Christ. —Commissioner James Knaggs~
Inside:The rates of ‘I do’ A recent Pew Research Center study shows a decline in mar-riage rates. See how the Army fares. Page 6
NATIONAL COMMANDER, page 4
U.S.A. National Leaders Commissioners William
and Nancy Roberts Photo by Christin Davis
n The Salvation Army responds to the increasing needs of quake vic-tims in New Zealand.
BY BUFFY LINCOLNContinued escalation in welfare needs
has resulted in The Salvation Army stepping up its ongoing response in New Zealand after the devastating 6.3 magnitude quake that hit Christchurch on Feb. 22.
Although the Feb. 22 quake was of a smaller magnitude than the 7.1 one that hit in September 2010, the destruction of the second quake far outweighed that of the first—due to the temblor being closer to the earth’s surface—requiring
larger distribution centers and more office space.
“The situation in Christchurch is extremely serious,” Commissioner Don Bell, commander of the New Zealand, Fiji, and Tonga Territory, said. “The Salvation Army stands ready to continue to help the city in this terrible time of great grief and human need.”
Major Robbie Ross, national fund-raising coordinator, noted that locals are still living with the psychological effects of the September quake; this new shock contributed another layer of grief for people already mourning for their loved ones and the loss of possessions and
n Annual retreat draws biggest turnout in recent years.
BY JOANNE LOUANGAMATH, CAPTAINAn Army of geared-up soldiers from all over the Western Territory
convened at the College for Officer Training at Crestmont from Feb. 11-13, to take part in the Future Officers Fellowship (FOF) retreat—themed “IMPACT”—under the direction of Territorial Candidates and Recruitment Secretaries Majors John and Pamilla Brackenbury. This year marked the biggest turnout in recent years.
Beginning with a pre-retreat on the Thursday prior, nearly 60 prospective and accepted candidates had the opportunity to dig deeper into the application process, finalizing details for their cases and getting to know the cadets and staff of the college.
The cadet worship team kicked off the weekend Friday evening with exuberant praise, and (then) Training Principal and Campus Services Director Majors Steve and Marcia Smith gave the keynote. The Saturday morning session was led by Major Pamilla Brackenbury, who challenged the delegates saying, “God calls his people to impact others. Are you willing? Only you can answer that.”
‘Extremely serious’
Meet America’s newest national Salvation Army leadersn Commissioners Roberts in appoint-ment since November 2010
BY CHRISTIN DAVISCommissioners William and Nancy
Roberts arrived at The Salvation Army’s United States National Headquarters in November 2010 after 10 years of interna-tional appointments to take on leadership of the Army in the U.S., respectively, as the National Commander and National President of Women’s Ministries.
Most recently, the Robertses spent three years as the first terri-torial command-ers to the newly established Kenya West Territory.
“In Kenya West, The Salvation Army is strong and growing; we had to create infrastructure and develop a team,” William Roberts said. “Everyone in Kenya is so joyful and proud to be a Salvationist…it’s a holy pride; their lives are filled with joy because of Jesus. We were truly sorry to leave when the time came.”
They previously served at International Headquarters, in Argentina, and numerous appointments within the Central Territory. Following their commissioning in 1971, the Robertses led three corps.
“Every appointment prepares you in some regard,” William Roberts said. “As corps officers, we learned about getting to know
A look inside National Headquarters
On YouTube: http://tinyurl.com/ 69bnqdk
On the New Frontier site: http://www.newfrontierpublications.org/nf/2011/03/a-look-inside-nhq/
A day in Christchurchn Commissioner Don Bell reflects on the damage in New Zealand.
BY DON BELL, COMMISSIONERWestern Territory officers Commissioners
Don and Debi Bell currently serve as territo-rial leaders for New Zealand, Fiji and Tonga. They are based in Wellington, New Zealand. On Sunday, Feb. 27, Commissioner Don Bell traveled to Christchurch to assess the damage from the magnitude 6.3 earthquake of Feb. 22, and to come alongside Salvation Army officers, soldiers, volunteers and the people to whom the Army ministers.
Arriving at Christchurch Airport, I observed long lines at the departure gates—clearly, people wanted to leave the area.
Commissioner James Knaggs speaks to delegates at the Future Officers Fellowship Retreat. Photo by Bob Louangamath FUTURE OFFICERS FELLOWSHIP, page 2
NEW ZEALAND, page 5
Devastation in ChristchurchSalvationists assemble to join Suburban Squad relief team in Christchurch, New Zealand. Photo by Chris Cope
n Japanese Salvation Army emergency relief teams swing into action.
The Salvation Army in Japan has three emergency service relief teams operating in areas devastated by the March 11 earth-quake—preliminary magnitude 8.9, later upped to 9.0—and the consequent tsunami that hit the northeast coast of the country last week. One of the teams is assisting evacuees from areas where there is potential danger because of damage to nuclear power gen-eration stations.
The earthquake—the largest in Japan’s history—was also the fifth strongest earthquake worldwide in recorded history (records begin in 1900). The disaster affected a 2,000-kilometer (about 1,243 miles) north-south stretch of Japan. Official reports now state that more than 10,000 people are dead or missing.
At this time there are no reports of any loss of Salvation Army personnel or damage to corps buildings.
Immediately following the earthquake and tsunami, an assess-
ment team was sent from Tokyo to Sendai (the city nearest the center of the earthquake). The journey—normally accomplished in six hours—took 20 hours.
Road and rail systems have been severely affected. There is a shortage of gas, with many gas stations closed and lines up to three kilometers (about two miles) long at stations that are open.
Arrangements are being made for emergency service personnel from The Salvation Army International Headquarters (IHQ) to go to Japan to assist with the Army’s relief effort.
A number of Salvation Army territories have informed IHQ of financial and prayer support for the Army’s relief effort in Japan. The Salvation Army in South Korea has set aside the next four weeks specifically for prayer and fundraising for Japan.
A Japan Disaster Fund appeal has been established at IHQ.Donations may be made online at salvationarmy.org or by tex-
ting the word “quake” or “Japan” to 80888.From a Salvation Army international news release
DISASTER STRIKES JAPAN
The Lord your God is with you; the mighty One will save you. He will rejoice over you. You will rest in his love; he will sing and be joyful about you. (Zeph. 3:17, NCV)
More SALT, pleaseThe White Mountain
Outpost in Show Low, Ariz., received a $5,000 grant from the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation for its SALT (Salvation Army Life Transitions) program, which shelters homeless families and provides life skills training and help finding employment and permanent housing. David and Tina Sherman are in charge of the outpost.
Team personnel will make an official presentation during a Diamondbacks’ baseball game on April 13.
Sitka’s homeless populationRecent statistics gathered during the
Winter 2010 Homeless Count in Sitka, Alaska, startled Captain Tina Bottjen, who serves with her husband as corps officer in that community. As a result of this new information, Bottjen is working with the Easter Group to organize a Summit on Homelessness this fall to help educate and identify how to impact this growing issue in their community.
Sitka’s Easter Group is an ecumenical community of faith whose mission is to end poverty, empower people, and bring about a rebirth of hope.
Sacramento’s homeless come in from the cold
The Salvation Army received a $17,500 donation from the Building Industry Association (BIA). The funds helped fill 32 beds at the Army’s Center of Hope shelter—beds designated for homeless people coming off the American River Parkway. Sacramento County Supervisor Phil Serna spearheaded the search to find financial support for these shelter beds. Also involved is Volunteers of America; the group is handling the Winter Sanctuary for other homeless persons transitioning from the American River Parkway.
Inaugural resource fair a successThe San Francisco Ray and Joan Kroc
Corps Community Center joined forces with Railton Place—a transitional and permanent residence for the homeless—in December 2010 to hold its first Community Resource Fair offering information on health, educa-tion, housing and employment.
Vendors included Veteran Affairs, the Employment Development Department, The Salvation Army’s Harbor Light and Harbor House, and the University of California at San Francisco.
Many vendors e-mailed their thanks, add-ing that it was an excellent opportunity to form new relationship and collaborate with other organizations.
More than 300 visitors and over 30 ven-dors participated.
Appointment changeEffective March 1, Major Brian Saunders
is appointed assistant training principal at the College for Officer Training at Crestmont.
Talk to us!We want to know what’s happen-
ing in your corps, ARC or unit—special programs or events, enrollments, youth achievements, and more! Submit just a few sentences (that’s about 75 words) to karen.gleason@ usw.salvationarmy.org or to [email protected]. Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/tsanewfrontier.
March 11, 2011New Frontier2
KarenGleason
Editor
N E W S B R I E F S O F T H E W E S T
Doing theMost Good
A day of love and affirmationn Alegria pampers residents on Valentine’s Day.
BY PAUL HEBBLETHWAITEWith overtones of happiness and excite-
ment that everyday life and relationships rarely reflect, Valentine’s Day is a holiday that people either love or hate. For residents at The Salvation Army Alegria, the daily grind of HIV/AIDS treatment, the pursuit of new income, and the search for housing make Valentine’s Day particularly difficult to embrace.
Knowing the challenges of life at Alegria, Alex Davis, a full-year DOOR (Discovering Opportunities for Outreach and Reflection) Hollywood intern, orga-nized an event with all of the fun of Valentine’s Day that also celebrated the beauty and worth of the women in the program. Staff and volunteer beauticians provided residents free hairstyling, mani-cures, and makeup consultations; food and refreshments added extra sweetness to the day.
A day spent pampering the women of Alegria was less an affirmation of Valentine’s Day than it was one small piece in a larger effort at Alegria to cre-ate an environment and experience that reflects respect and admiration for the people the program serves. Unlike larger society’s preoccupation with quick
riches and easy answers, Alegria’s pro-gramming reflects a belief that new life comes through a thousand affirmations. Celebrating self worth and a positive image is a critical component of HIV treatment and Alegria’s holistic delivery of services.
The goals that residents set in case management would be challenging for anybody, but when a person has to push through physical fatigue and other symp-
toms of illness and medication, these challenges are daunting. Finding and holding on to hope is essential to work-ing through the obstacles and pursuing family stability and health. Often the greatest barrier to hope is a client’s lack of confidence. A day of affirmation on Valentine’s Day offers an alternative mes-sage: that each resident is created in the image of God, and that they do not walk alone.
Alegria resident receives free beauty treatment for Valentine’s Day. Photo by Kyle Clifton
FUTURE OFFICERS FELLOWSHIP from page 1
n Army partners with Safari Club International and local businesses for annual event.
BY CAROLE MILLERMary*, her 7-year-old son and 5-year-old daughter were
among the guests waiting to be seated for dinner at this year’s Feed the Hungry Feast in Reno, Nev.
“You have no idea how grateful we are for this dinner,” said Mary as she held onto her children’s hands. “Most days I don’t know how I will be able to feed my kids.”
Mary is among thousands who have fallen on hard times in the Truckee Meadows. The December unemployment rate for the Reno-Sparks area was 13.8 percent and Nevada leads the nation in home foreclosures, according to Northern Nevada Business Weekly. In this economic climate, it was not surprising that the line was long around the Reno Events Center for the late January dinner, which included meatloaf and gravy, mashed potatoes, vegetables, salad, bread and cake.
Social service requests at the Reno Corps also reflect increas-ing community need, with the total number of people served jumping over 33 percent in the past three years. The number of clients seeking help for the first time was up 59 percent during that same period.
“Times are tough in Washoe County, so we were very pleased to be able to offer the community a free meal,” said Major Michael Zielinski, Reno corps officer. “We organize the dinner each year, but we couldn’t make it happen without the support
provided by Safari Club International and the local businesses that donate the food, the venue, meal preparation—everything.”
The Safari Club provided 800 pounds of ground venison and 300 pounds of ground beef for this year’s meatloaf. The Eldorado Hotel prepares the meal. Other sponsors include the Reno-Sparks Convention & Visitors Authority, C & M Food Distributing, Harrah’s Reno, Model Dairy, Truckee Sourdough Company, Sierra Sportservices and U.S. FoodService.
More than 160 volunteers helped serve the meal, including Salvation Army Advisory Board members. Volunteers also dis-tributed small toys to the children attending the dinner.
*Name has been changed.
Reno’s 13th annual ‘Feast’ Serves 1,300
Safari Club members Dana Dawson and Jon Zinnel (L to R) join AACT culinary students on one of the three serving lines. Photo by Carole Miller
Prospective Candidate Tersy Matto stated, “As I think of my own life and how it was impacted, I am grateful to say that it had been by the many individuals who sought God’s will for their lives and remained sensitive to it. If it weren’t for their obedience, I would not have witnessed such wonderful love; a love that allowed me to see how cherished I am as a child of God; a love that went from life to death, then life again in order that I can claim eternal life as my own forever. It is my prayer that my life reflects his love to those I come in contact with daily; that by his power at work in me, I am able to further his kingdom. Having seen the cadets during FOF and witnessing just how real God’s call is for their lives, makes it all the more clear that we are at
war—and these are the people who have said, ‘Here I am Lord, send me.’ Their boldness gives me courage to also join them and say, ‘use me too.’”
God equips us individually to impact others for him. A great example is Accepted Candidate Shanon Hawkesworth who is currently serving as a missionary in Kenya. Hawkesworth joined in for a session via Skype and testified about her missionary experience and the impact she is making for Christ.
Other highlights of the weekend included special music selections by delegate Timothy Witcher and Captains Osei and Lynn Stewart along with personal testimonies by Accepted Candidate Michael Evans, Prospective Candidates Victor and Regina Verdugo and Cadet Felecia Grant. Delegates
could attend classes, tour the campus and join in Bible study groups. On Saturday evening, delegates dressed up for a Valentine’s banquet, enjoying a laughter-filled evening with comedians Bean and Bailey.
Commissioner James Knaggs, territorial commander, spoke Sunday morning, continuing the momentum of the theme’s message by saying, “Here in the Western Territory U.S.A., we need to win the world for Jesus…this ought to be in our hearts, this ought to be in our soul. We’re not trying to raise up a great Salvation Army, we’re trying to bring people to the fullness of Jesus Christ. The more there are of us to do it the better we’ll get it done.”
Pray for our future officers as they prepare to impact the world!
The Musician March 11, 2011New Frontier 3Doing the
Most Good
n Group makes first ministry outing of the New Year.
Traveling from near and far, the Western Territorial Songsters, conducted by Territorial Music Secretary Neil Smith, brought their musical ministry to the Southern California Division on Jan. 28–30. Along with the 30 songsters, the bri-gade includes David Dunford, pianist, and Major Cindy Foley, chaplain. Their Spirit-led offerings blessed both those who came to hear them and the songsters themselves.
“Until the Whole World Hears” was the theme for the young adult event held the evening of Jan. 29, at the Bellflower Corps. Joining the Territorial Songsters was the Pasadena Tabernacle Corps’ young adult group “Redemption.” With 96 youth—passionate and on fire for Christ—in attendance, the meeting was high energy and thought-provoking. Lt. Paul Swain’s message
brought many seekers—moved by the Holy Spirit—to the altar to make life-changing deci-sions.
On Sunday morning, Jan. 30, the songsters worshiped with the men at the Long Beach Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC). The testimonies of the ARC beneficiaries were the highlight of the meeting. “Limitless Grace”—one of the songs shared by the Songsters—expressed the message of grace and hope to many who were seeking Jesus’ unlimited love and mercy. Captain Frank Desplancke delivered the message—it was a powerful witness to God’s power to see the Spirit working in the lives of the men through the minis-try of the Word and of music.
Psalm 105: 1-3 declares: Hallelujah! Thank God! Pray to him by name! Tell everyone you meet what he has done! Sing him songs, belt out hymns, trans-late his wonders into music! (MSG). May it be so.
—Captain Lynn Stewart
Territorial Songsters minister in Southern California
The Western Territorial Songsters
Retired bandmaster honoredn Salvation Army soldier stays busy vol-unteering in retirement.
BY MARTHA MILLERWhen retired Bandmaster John Magnenat
found that simply soldiering at the Seattle Temple Corps was not enough to keep him busy, he started volunteering. Recently, he was one of six people recognized for volunteer work.
Foss Home and Village—advocates for the aging since 1929 in Seattle—presents the awards to seniors who in retirement continue to contribute their time and talents through volunteering.
First invited to join a corps band in 1938, Magnenat has been a faithful bandsman ever since, playing almost every instrument with three valves. He spent 43 years as a bandmas-ter with The Salvation Army, most recently at the Seattle Temple Corps. Currently, he plays in the baritone section of the Seattle Temple Corps band. In addition, for 25 years he spent his vacation time as a music camp instructor at Camp Arnold (Wash.). Magnenat said, “It has been very rewarding to see the progress these young people have made musically through the years.”
His life is not all music. He serves on the corps staff as director of senior ministries, plans each week’s Senior Lunch program, and transports several seniors who attend. He teaches a Thursday morning Bible study and visits nursing homes and hospitals.
Major Dave Harmon, corps officer with his wife Linda, often refers to Magnenat as “Saint John.”
Magnenat and his wife, Rafaela, have been soldiers at the Seattle Temple Corps since 1962.
David Crouch, president and CEO of Foss Homes and Village, and John Magnenat
n Delegates gather for Territorial Worship Arts Retreat.
BY SARAH KALENTERMIDIS“Love Extravagantly” was the theme
for this year’s Territorial Worship Arts Retreat, held at Camp Redwood Glen, Feb. 18-20. The retreat, put on by the Territorial Music department—led by Neil Smith—focused on Jesus’ extrava-gant love for us, and how we can express that same love in various outlets and media. A total of 209 Salvationists trav-eled to Scotts Valley, Calif., for the event.
Workshops included drama with the Lacey Theatre Company; dance with Alicia Hood, a choreographer; photog-raphy with Nikole Lim; video produc-tion with Chris Toy; praise and worship with Abraham Guevara and the band; and preaching with Bart Tarman. These classes aimed to educate and encourage delegates to develop and use their gifts to worship God and express love to oth-ers.
During the united session, Tarman focused on the love of Jesus and our responsibility to share that love with others, saying, “Jesus didn’t tell his disciples ‘Worship me.’ He said ‘follow me. Follow me. I will show you how to love.’”
Tarman challenged the group to exercise “preemptive love,” reflecting God’s love; he loved us before we even thought about loving him. Tarman also spoke on the need for our identity to be immersed in the identity God gives us as his beloved. An incredible story-
teller, Tarman believes in the impor-tance of teaching and preaching the gospel. Reminded of the importance of the Gospels, Krystina Macias (Whittier Corps) said, “They are the books about what Jesus did and said; we should continually be rooted in them and in Jesus—a very humble and challenging goal.”
Later Friday night, delegates viewed Nikole Lim’s documentary While Women Weep. On Saturday evening, the Lacey Theatre Company presented an 80-minute show called Word on the Street, by Rob Lacey. The group received a standing ovation as an all-female three-person cast walked through the entire Bible using wit, humor and song.
At Sunday’s worship service, Territorial Commander Commissioner James Knaggs gave a motivating and spirit-igniting sermon. Andrew Smith (South San Francisco Citadel Corps) appreciated Knaggs’ challenge—“to recognize, redeem, and then rev up the gifts that God has given to us.” The chal-lenge can and should be shared by every follower of Christ, using spiritual and creative gifts for his glory. Knaggs’ mes-sage summed up the weekend, leaving everyone with a mission and a fighting spirit.
Smith credited the retreat’s success to Creative Arts Director Joy Lee, who planned and executed it. He said, “Five years ago when we started this event, we were not sure where we were headed. Now, with the excitement and interest building in worship arts, we know that God has great things in store.”
Back at home, the delegates’ challenge is to reach others, loving them the way Jesus does and fighting spiritual battles, not avoiding them, with the most impor-tant—really the only—weapon we have: love. Just as Knaggs rallied at the end, “Now it’s time to make W.A.R.!”
Save the date for the next Worship Arts Retreat, Feb. 10-12, 2012.
L O V EEXTRAVAGANTLY
Redeeming the Heart
of Worship
Top (l-r) Alicia Wood dances to “Extravagant Worship.” An artist paints during worship. Delegates take part in a drama workshop. Above: Members of the Lacey Theatre Company perform.
Photos by Chris Toy, Joy Lee and Praise Byun
March 11, 2011New Frontier4 Doing the
Most Good
Social Justice app receives high responseBY KEVIN W. TOMSON-HOOPER
GetJar, a huge mobile app store, and DIDMO, creators of the award-winning Magmito mobile application creation solu-tion, report that in less than six weeks, The Salvation Army’s social justice app, The Daily Cup, has solicited more than 190,000 mobile downloads. Of the users that downloaded the app, 6.2 percent clicked through to the “Donate $10 Now” button within the app, and 3.9 percent submitted the volunteer form.
“The success of The Daily Cup app is a testament to the growing trend of mobile and how it is reaching every facet of society and business, especially when a philanthropic organization like The Salvation Army embrac-es mobile to connect with younger donors,” said Patrick Mork, CMO of GetJar. “We, together with DIDMO, are excited to have a hand in this impactful initiative and proud to report the app solicited an over 10 per-cent response rate from those users clicking through to donate or wanting to volunteer.”
The app’s impressive download and click-through numbers speak to the growing trend of non-profit organizations successfully expanding their donor bases by embracing mobile marketing. By reaching these demo-graphics through emerging mobile platforms, charities like The Salvation Army are forging relationships with younger donors early in an effort to sustain these relationships as they grow older.
“The Salvation Army partnered with DIDMO and GetJar in an effort to engage the mobile generation and allow these people to help the less fortunate during the holiday season,” said Major C. Mark Brown, com-munity relations and development secretary at The Salvation Army USA Southern Territory Headquarters. “We were incredibly successful in connecting with over 190,000 people who are now getting informed, educated, and encour-aged to participate in the fight against social injustice directly on their mobile phones.”
The free Daily Cup mobile app addresses important social justice issues such as hunger, homelessness, HIV/AIDS, human traffick-ing, and natural disasters through building awareness and encouraging donations of both time and money from the younger, mobile demographic. Download it now at getjar.com/salvation-army.
NATIONAL COMMANDER from page 1
For Darnell Stinson, The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center represents even more than a state-of-the-art recreational and service facility—it represents a new beginning. Stinson is one of eight people to complete a construction training program at Dawson Technical Institute sponsored by Kroc Center general con-tractor W.E. O’Neil.
“The instruction was great and it really taught me to be patient, to study,” said Stinson. “The Majors [Kroc Center Administrators David and Darlene Harvey] are very thoughtful and caring. I think they enjoy what they’re doing, and it shows.”
The Kroc Center will create about 220 construction jobs for local residents like Stinson during its two-year construction phase. Once open, it will create more than 200 permanent, full and part-time jobs. The Kroc Center will provide job readiness and training programs. It is also expected to improve the economic stability of the surrounding neighbor-hood. The Chicago Kroc Center is expected to attract new business, create hundreds of jobs, increase economic sta-bility and lower crime rates. Completion of the Kroc Center is projected for 2012.
Stinson graduated from the program with a 3.8 GPA and is applying for a construction job with W.E. O’Neil this spring in the hopes of helping to build the Kroc Center. He has already been an active volunteer for The Salvation Army for the past two years, providing transportation for kids to after-school activities and for people who attend Kroc Corps worship services.
Stinson knows firsthand the impact the Kroc Center will have on the Far
South Side. “The community is in disar-ray and needs help,” Stinson says of West Pullman, the Chicago neighborhood he has called home for more than 22 years. “The Kroc Center is a step in the right direction and has the potential to change the future of the lives of both kids and adults.”
For more information, visit kroccen-terchicago.org
From the Central Territory’s Metropolitan Division blog, salarmychicago.wordpress.com
Kroc Center builder offers job training program
(L-R) Major David Harvey, Tim O’Neil, Bill O’Neil and Darnell Stinson during Salvation Army 2010 holiday assistance event Photo by Darlene Harvey
At the Daytona NASCAR Nationwide Series event on Feb. 19, NASCAR veteran Morgan Shepherd “donated” the hood of his #89 Nationwide Series race car to The Salvation Army and sported the Red Shield and “Doing the Most Good” brand promise.
At age 69, Shepherd is the founder of Victory in Jesus Racing Ministries, and while he’s got a small team with limited means, he’s still searching for opportunities to give back.
“There are millions in our country right now who have lost their jobs, their homes, and their spirit,” Shepherd said. “The demand is very high and we thought we could take our ‘ministry on wheels’ to a higher level and assist The Salvation Army when they need it the most. I’ve been blessed in so many ways over my career, and this is a way of giving back in honor of our fans and supporters. We don’t have much, but what we have, we can ‘donate’ to The Salvation Army.”
Get to know Shepherd, our partner and driver of #89 Salvation Army Nationwide Series Team, at blog.salvationarmyusa.org/?p=5280.
Army represented on the Daytona NASCAR track
Morgan Shepherd raced his #89 Salvation Army Nationwide Series car at Daytona on Feb. 19 . Photo by Phil Cavali
people, in leadership and administrative appointments we learned the Army’s organization and strategy, and serving outside the U.S. helped us to see the wider work of the international Army.”
An eye to the futureWhen the Robertses arrived in Buenos
Aires, Argentina, in 2001, the country was experiencing a time of economic decline.
“The time was critical; we had to keep the Army stable and serve the people who were suffering,” William Roberts said. “We had to encourage people and give them hope.” He learned Spanish in order to better com-municate this hope to the people.
“I worked hard at it,” he said. “We need to be aware of all of God’s children and sensitive to those whose language is not English. I have a warmth in my heart for Spanish, and believe there is definitely a place for the Spanish language in The Salvation Army. We need to develop these individuals to take on leadership and be more involved.”
Though America’s infrastructure and situation differs from his experience in Argentina, he said today’s economic restric-tions and challenges are one of the concerns
that currently face the Army in the U.S. Another, he said, is improving how we inform and draw attention to the needs we see every day on the streets of America.
“We must intelligently and faithfully take care of our assets, and use those assets wisely with an eye to the future. How we spend our money must accomplish the ‘most good,’” he said. “We can provide a framework and ideas at a national level, but the need is local and must be served and addressed in local ways.”
The Salvation Army in the U.S., along with the National Advisory Board, is cur-rently working to prepare a poverty index in association with universities and research centers. The index, William Roberts said, will be useful to government agencies and social service providers in drawing aware-ness to the seriousness of the issue of pov-erty.
Roberts also sees a need to be more involved in literacy efforts—he said with the extensive reach of Army centers across the country, we could be teaching people of all ages how to read and write—and anti-trafficking.
“I think we could also be more involved in the issue of anti-trafficking—both pre-
venting and exposing it,” Roberts said. “This is the kind of program William Booth would have felt good about—rescuing those who are enslaved.”
Here to serveWilliam Roberts was raised in a Salvation
Army home, made his first public statement of his calling to officership in high school, and entered training after graduating from Wayne State University in Detroit. He later earned a master’s degree in religious studies at the University of Detroit.
Nancy Roberts, however, first met The Salvation Army in high school while in a service club. She was introduced to William through his sisters and eventually worked as his boss while program director of the Army’s summer camp. With a bachelor’s degree in teaching and a master’s degree in counseling and guidance from Eastern Michigan University, Nancy Roberts said she has been able to use all of her strengths and love for people as an officer in The Salvation Army.
The Robertses said women in Army lead-ership was an important topic of discussion at the 2011 High Council, which for the first time included more women attendees than
men (57 to 52). “I’ll stand behind women who are speak-
ing up and support and encourage the use of an individual’s strengths and gifts beyond just the traditional roles,” Nancy Roberts said. “We need to have people be who they are.”
Regarding the recent election of Commissioner Linda Bond as the Army’s 19th General, William Roberts said Bond is a capable, intelligent, experienced, and articulate leader.
“She says things worth listening to,” Roberts said. “I’ve never heard her speak when I did not want to listen.”
As the national leaders of The Salvation Army in the U.S., the Robertses said they will protect the Army’s name, reputation and heritage.
“We want to capture the joy of Salvationists who are serving the Lord in communities,” William Roberts said. “We want to remind people that we are an orga-nization that serves. In corps, headquarters, social service centers—our purpose is to serve. We need the mindset of servants. We must treat and respond to people as if we were responding to the Lord.”
March 11, 2011New Frontier 5Doing the
Most Good
Elsewhere in the world
POLAND—Western Territory officer Major Patrick Granat, currently regional officer in Poland, reports noticeable growth for The Salvation Army in the capital city of Warsaw.
Soldier Tanya Panasiuk developed the popular “Kid’s Club.” She and her team plan to expand the program to include junior soldier classes, timbrel training, and a Sunday school.
Kid’s Club has contributed to increased attendance at the corps. Last year average attendance was 20-25 at services and five to eight at Bible study. In January 2011, num-bers climbed to 50-60 on Sundays and over 10 at Bible study.
Daily, about 75 people visit the corps’ drop-in center—opened to accommodate the homeless during the winter. By offer-ing this service, the Army has developed a reputation in the area of competency and compassion.
CANADA—Majors Brian and Julie Slous, corps officers at Heritage Park Temple, Winnipeg, saw nothing but gangs, low-income families and seniors four years ago upon arriving at their new appointment. Most residents didn’t know how to obtain the social services available to them.
The Slouses formed a team to work with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and other agencies to assess area needs. Their research led to establishment of a parish-nursing system—a program that relies on a faith community with a network of health professionals.
After a study of community needs, per-sonnel will develop programs that focus on holistic health and assistance maneuvering the social systems.
The corps has already established a sup-port group for young mothers.
From Salvationist.ca
PAKISTAN—Following the 2010 floods that destroyed villages across the coun-try—leaving many people homeless—the Pakistan people faced the winter cold under difficult circumstances. Despite assistance from both the government and non-government organizations, many still lacked basic necessities.
To help, The Salvation Army’s Canada and Bermuda Territory funded the pur-chase and distribution of winterized tents, which have several layers to provide suf-ficient insulation against the cold weather. They are not luxurious, but they could make the difference between life and death for some Pakistanis.
The Salvation Army in Pakistan contin-ues to search for longer-term sustainable development projects.
From a Salvation Army international news report
ITALY—The Salvation Army in Italy has received an appeal from Italian authorities for use of the Army’s Atena Lucana Centre as a temporary home for refugees from northern Africa seeking escape from the political chaos and turmoil in Tunisia and Libya.
Lt. Colonel Daniel Naud, officer com-manding of the Army’s work in Italy, has agreed to the request. After preparation, the center will be able to accommodate a minimum of 50 people.
Naud concedes that there is much to do in order to ready the facility for refugees but adds: “We will do our best with the aid of our team of professionals to manage this new situation.”
From www.salvationarmy.org/ihq
NEW ZEALAND from page 1
n Major Beryl Pierce corresponds from her appointment in Zambia.
Major Beryl Pierce is a Western Territory officer who has been serving in Zambia since June 2005 as a corps offi-cer and a social worker at Chikankata Hospital.
I am now in my sixth year here in Zambia—I will complete my second term in August and will have a chance to visit home again. I am still enjoying my ministry here despite all the challenges and I hope to renew for another two-year term. I have four building projects underway and can only hope to finish one of them before August. So I would like to come back and finish the projects.
Building projectsBuilding is a very slow process
because it is done with all volunteer labor—and that labor is intense. The workers make and burn all the bricks themselves; they gather the sand and gravel for mixing with the cement. Often the women bring the materials to the site in buckets on their heads. The stone has to be crushed by hand, one at a time, using a hammer. If I could, I would love to send you pictures but our Internet connection is too slow.
Soldier enrollmentsOn Dec. 9, 2010, I went to my small-
est corps to enroll 16 new senior sol-diers. These new soldiers are the result
of the evangelistic campaigns we did last September. We have enrolled a total of 52 new senior and 72 new junior soldiers for the year 2010 in my four corps and we held two evangelistic campaigns.
Baby dedicationFor Christmas we had a baby dedica-
tion—my 250th dedication since com-ing to Chikankata—for a baby whose mother died nine days after giving birth at the hospital—the child was given to the mission director and his wife. On New Year’s Day, after the usual watch night service on New Year’s Eve, we had a baby shower for the same family.
I continue to be amazed at how God can use me here; I know that it is not through my own strength or ability but truly his grace that keeps me going. I am so grateful for all the prayer support and even financial support for my projects. I trust that God will continue to equip me with the strength and ability and resources to complete the task he has called me here to do.
Contributions to the work in Zambia may be sent to The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, c/o Major Eloisa Martin, P.O. Box 22646, Long Beach, CA 90802-5646. Please notate on your check: “Major Beryl Pierce—Zambia.”
News from Zambia
Some waiting to depart were refugees to this country from places like Iran; these people would now be relocated to Wellington and Auckland in order to make room in government housing for the up to one-third of the local population who will not be able to return to their homes.
The Salvation Army’s divisional head-quarters, Christchurch City Corps, Hope Centre and many homes—including that of Majors Clive and Leslie Nicolson—are dam-aged. Collapsed buildings are everywhere, with the extent of damage far greater than the September 2010 earthquake. At this time, over 200 residents are still missing.
Despite the destruction, people through-out the city continued to worship, even though many feared entering any building. As we travelled to Linwood and Sydenham, we saw services being conducted in the open air.
Prime Minister John Key, Minister of Social Development Paula Bennett, Labor leader Phil Goff, and Governor General Anand Satyanand visited Salvation Army locations. Each thanked the Army for its work.
I shared with our workforce that Salvation Army leaders, officers, and sol-diers from around the world are standing with us in prayer. General Shaw Clifton wrote: “We remain committed to uphold you all in prayer and in practical ways…how proud we are of the Salvationists. Tell them so, and thank them for me. Please assure them of our love in Christ and our constant prayers.”
In John 14:27 Jesus said, Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
We cannot understand why disasters take place but we can find peace as we trust in our Savior for the days ahead.
CHRISTCHURCH
from page 1
The 31 junior soldiers enrolled at Kakole Corps. Photo courtesy of Beryl Pierce
homes. The aftershocks that continued after Feb. 22 added to residents’ men-tal and emotional distress.
Salvation Army emergency services volunteers reported an increased need for nutritional support, with specific attention going to those need-ing immediate provision of food and water. The Army provided psychoso-cial support as well as food and other items. Although the quake damaged several Salvation Army buildings, response teams worked from tempo-rary locations.
Ten-man teams—“suburban squads”—include some 90 Salvation Army personnel, representatives from the New Zealand Earthquake Commission, engineers, and the Christchurch city council. The teams traveled through the area to provide emotional support and to identify material needs. Army workers also accompanied 400 members of various families to the site where their relatives were believed to be.
Joined by other groups from around the country, Salvationists
spoke with the bereaved who attended police briefings on the mission and on those confirmed dead. The Salvation Army is receiving support from such agencies as World Vision and Victim Support.
Several Salvation Army corps in the South Island are providing “meet and greet” support to families who have left Christchurch.
Still in place—with reinforce-ments—is the psychosocial team established after the first quake. Army staff is taking part in not only assess-ing the extent of damage, but also social and welfare needs.
On March 5, a sporting and fund-raising event involving international and Olympic athletes had been sched-uled in Christchurch to aid the Army’s relief efforts. It was cancelled after the quake hit.
Rather than forfeit the day, the athletes organized “Track Meet 4 Christchurch.” The meet was free, but The Salvation Army was on site to col-lect donations.
From various Salvation Army reports
Christchurch City Corps Community Ministries and Family Store in Christchurch Photo by Robbie Ross
Majors Alfred C. Parker II and Stella Parker
After over 24 years as officers in The Salvation Army, Majors Alfred and Stella Parker retired.
Alfred (Chris) Parker was the son of Salvation Army officers who served in the southern United States before relocating to Greeley, Colo., in 1970. Later that year they became guardians of Stella Morrison.
Parker and Morrison married in 1972. In 1974 they served one year as envoys in Laramie, Wyo., then transferred to the Denver Citadel Corps where Chris Parker was a youth assistant. After a brief time away from the Army, they returned to the West Adams Corps and eventually back to the Denver Citadel.
In the interim, the couple worked to rebuild the Denver Harbor Light, which had been shut down. They became street missionaries for three years—daily serving meals to the needy. They established a shelter that housed 200 men, along with Safe Harbor, a working man’s training cen-ter for 35 men, with a clinic and recovery chapel services weekly, sponsored by the Denver Citadel Corps.
In 1984 they entered the School for Officer Training with the Proclaimers of the Gospel Session and were commissioned in 1986. Major Chris Parker attended the Brengle Institute in 2003.
After initial appointments in Hawaii, they served in Sheridan, Wyo.; Greeley, Colo.; Lodi, Calif.; then returned to the Metro Denver Social Services, where they administered a variety of services. Their final appointments were Grand Junction, Colo.; Casper, Wyo.; and the Denver Adult Rehabilitation Center.
The Denver Citadel Corps hosted their retirement celebration on Jan. 2. Major Victor Doughty, Intermountain divisional commander, presented the retirement cer-tificates.
The Parkers spent 20 of their 24 years as officers in the Intermountain Division, building bridges between corps and social services.
March 11, 20118 Doing the Most Good
SEEKING A MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL
The Salvation Army in Clark County (Las Vegas), Nevada is seeking a mental health professional to give oversight to an expanded residential pro-gram for homeless clients who have an Axis-1 diagnosis of mental illness. This is a revised pro-posed position, not yet approved for implemen-tation. Responsibilities would include contract compliance, staff management and the initial drafting of grant/contract requests and renewals. The successful candidate will have an advanced degree in one of the following disciplines: nurs-ing, licensed physician assistant, LCSW or MSW with mental health credentials. The successful candidate will have certification as a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP). A candi-date already having a registered and current Medicaid National Provider Identification Num-ber would be given preferential consideration. Experience as a mental health professional in a Salvation Army or other faith-based residential program will be considered when evaluating ap-plicants. The work venue for this position is on The Salvation Army’s Owens Campus for Social and Homeless Services in Las Vegas.
Please call the undersigned to discuss this pro-posed position prior to submitting an applica-tion or resume. All enquiries will be considered to be confidential.
For more information, contact Major Michael Ol-sen at [email protected] or by calling (702) 292 2273 [cell].
Las Vegas, NV
Majors Charles and Linda Gillies
After a combined 43 years of service with The Salvation Army, Majors Charles (Chuck) and Linda (Brown) Gillies retired, effective Jan. 1.
The Whittier (Calif.) Corps—their final appointment—held a retirement celebration for them on Dec. 26, 2010, during its Christmas holiness meeting. Officiating at the event were retired Lt. Colonels Alfred and Sheryl Van Cleef, the same officers who had enrolled Chuck Gillies as a soldier. Major Sherry McWhorter shared her personal testi-mony of how the Gillies impacted her life in 1991 when they served in Fairbanks, Alaska. Lt. Colonels Victor and Rose-Marie Leslie, Southern California divi-sional commanders, also attended.
The Gillies married in 1969. Linda Brown was commissioned in 1967 with the Witnesses to the Faith Session—six years prior to Chuck Gillies’ commis-sioning in 1973 with the Blood and Fire Session.
As a single officer, Brown served at the Kingsburg (1968) and Fresno Citadel (1969) corps, Calif. She became inac-tive until her reacceptance in 1979 when Chuck Gillies was commissioned.
Together, the Gillies held appoint-ments in Spokane and Seattle, Wash.; Hilo, Hawaii; Fairbanks, Alaska; and Western Territorial Headquarters. They relocated to the Caribbean Territory in 1994 and transferred back into the Western Territory in 1995. Following their return, they held positions at the College for Officer Training; Olympia, Wash.; Western Territorial Headquarters; Redondo Beach, Calif.; Southern California divisional headquarters; and Whittier.
Upon retirement, they were serving as corps officers in Whittier. They will continue their service there until summer moves are implemented.
The Gillies will make their home in Whittier.
recentRetirements
n Western Territory will hold early Bible Bowl playoff.
BY CARI ARIASYoung people in all 10 divisions of
the Western Territory have delved into the Gospel of John, preparing for this year’s Bible Bowl competition, which culminates in the finals held during Commissioning weekend on June 11.
For the past five years, the Territorial Bible Bowl playoffs have been held dur-ing Commissioning weekend in Cerritos, Calif. This year, though, some changes will take place to the battle plan.
For the first time, the Western Territory will be holding a playoff at Camp Gifford (Northwest Division) on May 13-15. Bible Bowl judges from around the territory will assist in rounds
Friday evening, Saturday morning, and Saturday afternoon. Saturday evening will include a time of fun and fellowship. Events will conclude with a worship ser-vice on Sunday morning.
The two days of rivalry will decide the top three teams that will go to the finals at Commissioning.
The reason for the change is twofold. Above all, it is to refocus on what Bible Bowl is about: learning God’s Word. Second, participants will experience some relief from the competitive atmosphere of the playoffs, as well as have a better chance to interact with one another.
We look forward to this opportunity to showcase what our teens have studied so hard for, celebrate the Word of God, enjoy fellowship, and together worship the author of the Bible.
Camp Gifford to host penultimate battle
MAJOR EDWARD RINGLE was promoted to Glory Feb. 2 from his home in Escondido, Calif.
Ringle was born Sept. 18, 1928, in Loma Linda, Calif., and grew up in nearby Riverside.
When Ringle was 8, music began to take a central role in his life when he accompanied his sister, Della, to a Salvation Army junior band practice. Although Ringle was too young to join the band, the bandleader handed him a “left-over” horn. He was hooked.
In 1946, Ringle entered The Salvation Army School for Officer Training (SFOT) and was commissioned as a probationary lieutenant with the Warriors Session in 1947.
After serving a few years in the Cascade Division, he met Lt. Ruth Bass, whom he married in 1952.
The Ringles served together for 38 years in appointments that included the Cascade, Northwest, Alaska, Southern California, and Intermountain divi-sions. Additionally, they served in British Honduras—now Belize—Bolivia, and Chile. After 22 years of missionary service, they returned to the SFOT to develop a new Spanish track.
Even though Ringle retired in 1990, he still devoted much of his time to The Salvation Army. And his love for music continued. He would purchase instru-ments in thrift stores to fix up and give to youth both here and overseas. He also taught Spanish and music in Colorado.
Retired General John Larsson wrote a tribute about his friend Ringle.
“Since we first met, I have been one of his great admirers. His creativity, capacity for hard and detailed work, and his total and sacrificial dedication to the task were astounding.”
Ringle is survived by his wife, Ruth; children Sarah Elena, Kala, Benson, Jon and Raoul; and many grandchildren.
The Salvation Army Riverside Corps held a Celebration of Life service for Ringle on Feb. 6. Major Rick Peacock, corps officer with his wife Margaret, offi-ciated and Lt. Colonel Doug Danielson, Southwest divisional commander, brought the message.
MAJOR ELEANOR HENDERSON was promoted to Glory on Feb. 6 from Laguna Woods, Calif.
Eleanor Foubister was born Oct. 8, 1922, to Salvation Army offi-cers. She had a beautiful voice and trained to be a professional singer. In 1946, she earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Arizona, prior to entering The Salvation Army School for Officer Training in 1947. Graduating with the Warriors Session, she took her first appointment at the Oakland (Calif.) Women’s Home and Hospital.
Foubister married Lt. Edwin Henderson in 1949. Together they served as corps officers at San Diego Temple, Riverside, and Richmond, Calif., and Tucson, Ariz.
The Hendersons also served at Western Territorial Headquarters in the Service Extension department, Northwest Divisional Headquarters (DHQ) in the Youth department, and Southern California DHQ in the Youth and Women’s Services departments.
Henderson spent the last 12 years of her career as director of special services at the Men’s Social Service Department—currently the Adult Rehabilitation Center.
Henderson was a faithful member of the Santa Ana and Tustin Ranch (Calif.) corps for almost 34 years, serving as the unofficial corps greeter.
The Tustin Ranch Corps held a memo-rial service for Henderson on Feb. 20 with Commissioner Joe Noland officiating.
Surviving Henderson are her hus-band of nearly 62 years, Major Edwin Henderson; her daughter, Sandra; her sons, Edwin and Jon; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
March 11, 2011 9Doing the Most Good
Munns to bespecial guests at Commissioningn Couple will lead Saturday morn-ing workshops on Spiritual Life Development.
BY GLEN MADSEN, MAJORLt. Colonel Richard Munn, principal
of the International College for Officers; and Lt. Colonel Janet Munn, international secretary for Spiritual Life Development, are among the special guests for this year’s Commissioning activities. Dynamic leaders with a wealth of knowledge and practical experience, the Munns will lead the Saturday morning activities featuring solid biblical teaching and practical guidance for abundant living.
The activities will commence 8 a.m. Saturday, June 11, with a united session including a continental breakfast and keynote address by Lt. Colonel Janet Munn. Delegates may then attend two of the following four workshops:
Session I—WORSHIP—Instructor, Lt. Colonel Richard Munn (9 a.m.)
We call Salvationists worldwide to worship and proclaim the living God, and to seek in every meeting a vital encounter with the Lord of Life.
A.W. Tozer described worship as “the missing jewel of the evangelical church.” If worship is the primary function of the church, then simply being evangelical is not enough. Does this apply to The Salvation Army? This session will address these ques-tions, survey basic worship principles and seek to fashion a Salvationist theology of wor-ship.
We call Salvationists worldwide to enter the new millennium with a renewal of faith-ful, disciplined and persistent prayer; to study God’s word consistently and to seek God’s will earnestly; to deny self and to live a lifestyle of simplicity in a spirit of trust and thankfulness.
This workshop will explore a variety of spiritual disciplines that become life patterns, forming us in Christ’s likeness. Several disci-plines will be practiced with resources recom-mended.
Session II—CALL TO LIFE TOGETHER—Instructor, Lt. Colonel Janet Munn (11 a.m.)
We call Salvationists worldwide to rejoice in their unique fellowship; to be open to sup-port, guidance, nurture, affirmation and chal-lenge from each other as members together of the body of Christ; and to participate actively and regularly in the life, membership and mission of a particular corps.
This workshop will explore the biblical foundation of “the people of God” in com-munity—how they relate to one another, need one another and can build a true Christian community.
Session II—CALL TO HOLINESS—Instructor, Lt. Colonel Richard Munn (11 a.m.)
We call Salvationists worldwide to restate and live out the doctrine of holiness in all its dimensions—personal, relational, social and political—in the context of our cultures and in the idioms of our day while allowing for, and indeed prizing, such diversity of experi-ence and expression as is in accord with the Scriptures.
This workshop will examine holiness for everyone, every part and every day. The claims of our holiness doctrine are stunning: purity of heart available for all believers, possible here and now. Its scope is univer-sal—everyone holy, every part holy, every day holy. This session will focus closely on the wording of our 10th doctrine and seek to affirm Salvationist holiness convictions.
“I’m on a down-going escalator. I may be facing the right direction, try-ing to do the right thing, but unless I’m making upward progress on my journey, that escalator will take me down!”
My friend was describ-ing his personal faith walk. He had discovered that unless he was con-sistently making progress he would fall. This tendency, I believe, is a basic principle of human nature: Unless we ceaselessly make progress in our personal faith walks, we will regress and run the risk of falling. Satan, the god of this world, is an insidi-ous and subtle foe (Eph. 6:11). The apostle Peter presents him as a frightening enemy that prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (1 Pe 5:8 NIV). My dictionary defines “insidious” as “lying in wait to entrap.” Therefore, I suggest he also crouches in hiding sometimes, waiting for our most vulnerable moment—then pounc-es! Consequently, we must always be ready.
Paul’s most explicit remarks on this sub-ject paint an unmistakable picture. I have become all things to all men so that by all pos-
sible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings… .Therefore, I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize (1 Cor. 9:22-23, 26-27).
The book Alcoholics Anonymous stresses the necessity of consistent spiritual growth, pointing out repeatedly that we must not stagnate or we will fall. “It is easy to let up on our spiritual program of action. We are headed for trouble if we do… . Every day is a day when we must carry the vision of God’s will into all our activities. ‘How can I best serve Thee—Thy will (not mine) be done.’ These are thoughts which must go with us constantly” (page 85). This all-important element of making consistent progress on our faith walk goes by a number of names.
1. It is the journey of surrender. Jesus invites us: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and
my burden is light” (Matt. 11:29). We increasingly surrender to the lordship of Christ as we take his yoke upon us and remain as students in the classroom of our Lord. Like Mary, we faithfully sit and listen at our Savior’s feet, learning more and more from him over time, hiding his word in our hearts (Luke 10:39).
2. It is the journey of repentance. Paul reported: I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds (Acts 26:20). Repentance—the act of turning away from our sinful lifestyle—is a journey, for we generally do not repent of all sins at once. I have never seen a person lay down all sinful habits in a single moment. But lay them down we must until we are rid of them all (Luke 13:3).
3. It is the journey of sanctification. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit (2 Cor. 3:18). Once the veil of unbelief is lifted, the infant child of God—now set aside from sin and to God—begins a journey of gradual transformation into the image of Christ. The Holy Spirit effects this magnificent
identity change over time. This is what it means to become a new creation (2 Cor. 5:17). Paul prays: May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through (1Thess. 5:23).
4. It is the journey of recovery. The 12-step programs of Alcoholics Anonymous, Gamblers Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Overeaters Anonymous, etc., all take their members step by step on a journey of increasing surrender, repentance and sanctification—when Jesus Christ is recognized as their God. These programs translate biblical principles into user-friendly terms and formats—which all new Christians can benefit from. As Step 11 puts it: “We sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and power to carry it out” (emphasis mine).
Ever-improving is the theme of our journey. Because we live in a sinful world where Satan currently reigns, we must recognize that we are on a down-going escalator. Unless we continue to make upward progress on our journeys, that escalator will take us down!
March 11, 2011New Frontier10 Doing the
Most Good
Everyday flowersI grew up in the Caribbean where
the natural life and tropical flora of the region is a wonder to behold. On a given day, if you take a walk on one of the tiny islands, you would be amazed at the wide variety of flowers that are visible, growing in the underbrush or in any of the fine manicured gardens. Everywhere you find the freshness of nature—in the breathtaking perfumes, exquisite beauty and the dizzying inten-sity of colors in these tropical flowers. It is easy to let your imagination run wild as you stoop to examine the intricacy of indigenous orchids or inhale the scents of exotic flora with names such as lob-ster-claw, shame a lady, powder-puff and bird of paradise.
From my childhood days when I would step outside and freely pick flowers, to my daughters’ weddings when I paid an exorbitant sum for a few bouquets of flowers, and still recently as we celebrated Valentine’s Day, I must admit that I have had a fascination with flowers. In a sense, I have no choice as I am married to a “Rose” and in our family flowers have always been a woman’s best friend (diamonds are not even a distant second). They are everywhere in our home—gorgeous in form, stunning in color, exquisite in arrange-
ment, infinite in variety: artificial flowers, dried flowers, acrylic flowers and, sometimes, fresh-cut flowers with names as strange as those in the Caribbean—forget-me-nots, baby’s breath, elderflowers, bleeding hearts and even the devil’s walking stick.
I am awestruck by the hues and message and meaning behind these everyday flowers. As a Christian, red roses remind me of the passion and love of the “Rose of Sharon” (Song of Solomon 2:1); white carnations symbolize a desire to live a holy life and walk in purity; lavender orchids high-light the grace of God that is so undeserving; purple lilies speak to me of royalty that comes from being a child of the King (1 Peter 2:9); and yellow daffodils—they are a picture of rebirth and new beginnings that come from the fire of God’s Holy Spirit, assuring us of our friendship with God (Romans 8:16).
I am also captivated by the reasons we give and receive flowers. In every culture and across all generations, we give each other flowers on nearly all occasions—birthdays, anniversaries, sickness, new babies, weddings, graduations, and for nearly any reason. Every day flowers highlight the human desire for love and affirmation, which truly can only be found in our relationship with God, but is emulated in
our human relationships through flowers that can show that we do not merely say that we love each other…but show the truth by our actions (1 John 3:18).
We know that these multi-colored tokens of love will soon pass away, yet we keep buying and giving them, arranging, displaying, touching, smelling and watering them. And for the most sentimental among us, even when our flowers wilt and die, we press them together and keep them as a memorial between the pages of a book. Why? Flowers mark a memory in life, often joyful, sometimes painful, but always something lovely and fresh that lingers with us as a representation of life.
The Bible—in comparing our short life here on earth to a flower —confirms that we blossom like a flower and wither; like a passing shadow, we quickly disappear (Job 14:2). This analogy provides scope and stimulus for our lives to blos-som into a wonderful expression of beauty and blessing that predictably leaves the aroma of Christ as we interact daily with discouraged hearts and despairing minds. And when our “flower” falls away—unlike the flower of the field that the wind blows over it and it is gone and its place remembers it no more (Psalms 103:15-16), our lives would have marked a memory of Christ for others to hold onto, leaving behind a lingering fragrance of love that is remembered for genera-tions to come.
VictorLeslieLt. Colonel
I have been in my new appoint-ment—assistant territorial social service secretary—for six weeks now. On my second day, I was told that a major responsibility of mine would be to head up the Territorial Anti-Trafficking Council. “Great!” I sarcastically thought to myself. I know human trafficking happens, but I have no personal experi-ence or connection to it. It’s not one of my passions. Homeless issues, com-munity development, grant writing, advocacy, emergency disasters, basic social services, and Excel spreadsheets—I am your gal. But human trafficking? What do I know?
While stationed in Alaska, I had heard about some people living in remote areas who had Russian “mail order brides,” but I never met one. I have seen many crime dramas on TV that focused on human traffick-ing—and even a documentary or two—but real world experience? Can’t say that I have. I guessed this would
be just one of those responsibilities that I perform with a smile, but not be motivated to excel. I decided I could facilitate a once a month conference call, take minutes and share those with the National Council. But human trafficking and slavery in general are significant issues and, frankly, just plain sad.
Yesterday I was inspired—inspired by a group of young people! Megan from the Youth department came to me and asked about our anti-human trafficking efforts because one of the divisions is considering giving the profits of their youth council T-shirt sales to one of the programs. As we talked, she told me about the passion of a group of young people who are part of a Facebook group—TAPIOCA (Territorial Action Planning Initiative on Creating Awareness). They are reading the book Challenging Evil: Dispatches from the Frontlines of Radical Justice by S. Carvosso Gauntlett and Danielle Strickland, a reprint and updated version of a 1954 Salvation Army
book. And wouldn’t you know it, the first chapter focuses on human trafficking. This group of young people doesn’t see the subject as too big, too sad, or too far removed from their ability to make a difference.
Later that day I came across a story called the Darker Side of Chocolate, the story of how slave child labor is used to produce much of the chocolate we eat. The Nestlé and Cadbury companies were motivated by an outcry from the public, so they no longer use cocoa from the Ivory Coast where slave labor is rampant. The people who forced those companies to look into their practices didn’t feel that they couldn’t make a difference—they saw the big picture.
As I sit at my desk looking out the windows of the north end of the 11th floor, I have a new view. No lon-ger do I behold the beautiful mountains of the Chugach Range in Alaska, I now see beyond my city, my division, and my experiences. I, too, can make a difference on many social justice issues. And let’s face it—doesn’t Jesus expect us to make a difference?
A new view
JessycaElgartCaptain
The down-going escalator
GlenDossMajor
From my office win-dow I’ve watched an array of tents, marquees and streaming flags appear in front of the Long Beach Performing Arts Center, resem-bling the setting for a medieval tourna-ment. At any moment I expect King Arthur and his knights to ride along Ocean Boulevard, mount the steps and begin jousting and merrymaking in the California sunshine. But spoiling the illusion is a large red balloon floating overhead, emblazoned with the letters “T-E-D.”
What is TED? I’m glad you asked. Apparently it is a high-powered, influen-tial conference focusing on Technology, Entertainment and Design (hence the acronym TED). Registration for the four-day event costs $6,000 but you can view the webcast for only $500. Speakers include Bill Gates, singer Bobby McFerrin, Ford Motors chairman Bill Ford, film crit-ic Roger Ebert, and various neuroscien-tists, biomedical engineers, polar explor-ers, dinosaur diggers, street artists, magi-cians, poets and even a roboticist! The conference is sold out a year in advance and attracts followers from all over the world. The scope of the event is found in the titles of the three main sessions on the first day: Monumental, Majestic and Mindblowing. One aspect of this confer-ence really fascinated me: each of the 50 speakers has only 18 minutes to dazzle the audience—what a concept!
I’m not trying to promote this event, but it struck me forcibly that the organiz-ers have created something so exciting that 1,000 people are willing to pay $6,000 one year ahead of time to attend. How many Salvationists are looking forward to Sunday worship next March? Who can’t wait to hear next year’s enthrall-ing sermon series? How many young people are just beside themselves as they look forward to Youth Councils 2012? How many of us are eagerly anticipating Commissioning 2012? Well, I guess we could count a few cadets on that last one! But sometimes it seems hard enough in our corps to drum up enthusiasm for next weekend, never mind next year!
It’s time to start our own TED move-ment. When we come together, whether for Sunday worship, divisional meetings or territorial events, we should eagerly anticipate:
Transformational preaching—No more canned devotionals or hast-ily prepared sermons. Our messages must be catalysts of change in our people. God’s Word changes lives—it changed mine!
Col. 1:6: This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives (NLT).Excellence—In our music, words, image, buildings, child care, Sunday school, parking lot, bulletins, appear-ance, love. Everything should be done with excellence. Our Lord deserves nothing less.
Col. 3:23: Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for people (GNB). Dependence on God—We have an X-factor that the secular TED doesn’t have. Our God lives, and is greater than anything this world has to offer. He permeates everything and has the power to make miracles happen. When we learn to trust him, and become wholly dependent on his Holy Spirit, he will do great things in us and through us.
Psalm 37:5-6: Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: he will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun (NIV).
If we put TED into action, I guarantee God will make our gatherings so amazing that we will experience abundant blessings and changed lives every time. Our corps will be filled with worshipers and seekers and we’ll look forward to coming together with eager anticipation all the days of our lives because our God is monumental, majestic and mindblowing! So what’s stopping us?
Got any “wicked problems”?Lemme tell you, if you work, serve, attend, or soldier in The
Salvation Army, you’re confronted with more ‘wicked problems’ than you care to address.
I’m talking about the kind of problem batters struggled with when facing Sandy Koufax’s “wicked” fast ball.
Our congregations are “socially complex.” We are multicultural with wide age differences, significant variation in worship style, often conflicted with the means used to “serve suffering humanity,’ and highly complex in relation to leadership, roles, background, experience and goals. We often explore problems and issues informally with friends after the meeting and, most intensely, during corps council. These discussions rarely get us past our traditions.
We engage in a lotta talk. This is valuable—if it moves us toward a decision with-out feelings of futility and fragmentation.
Undoubtedly, you’re wondering what in “heaven’s name” are ‘wicked problems’? For sure, they don’t have anything to do with wickedness per se. But, dealing with
wickedness in a society does present a wide array of ‘wicked problems.’Jeff Conklin, in the first chapter of his book titled Dialogue Mapping: Building
Shared Understanding of Wicked Problems, helps us understand what this is all about. The chapter is titled: Wicked Problems and Social Complexity. He makes it clear that you simply cannot successfully address a ‘wicked problem’ in the same manner that you would try to solve a “tame” problem.
Tame problems can be dealt with through the traditional linear problem-solving method taught for centuries. You know—(1) state the problem clearly; (2) assemble the necessary data; (3) analyze the data; (4) develop hypotheses; (5) test the hypoth-eses; (6) formulate a solution; (7) implement the solution.
Horst Rittel coined and defined the term “wicked problems” as having these char-acteristics:
1. You don’t understand the problem until you have developed a solution.2. Wicked problems have no stopping rule.3. Solutions to wicked problems are neither right nor wrong.4. Every wicked problem is essentially unique and novel.5. Every solution to a wicked problem is a “one shot operation.”6. Wicked problems have no given alternative solutions.
Let’s see how this would work with a fictional ‘wicked’ Salvation Army corps prob-lem.
The Forrest Gulch Corps has been in existence for 89 years. Once, it thrived and had a rich tradition. Unfortunately, attendance and soldiership have now diminished to 50–75 members attending the morning meeting and only a hand-ful in attendance at the evening service.
The Army initiated a major drug rehabilitation program just a mile or two from the corps, and, after discussing a plan with corps officer, the center’s offi-cer began bringing over several van loads to the morning service. Sometimes, the men and women clients at the Rehab Center have more in attendance than the corps soldiers.
Two members of the corps council have requested an agenda item titled “Relations with the Rehab Center” for the coming meeting. Several council members are prepared to suggest that the clients should not be allowed to come and should stay in their own facility. They fear the young people are in danger. Several others believe that the Army mission requires this kind of commitment.
Truly, a ‘wicked problem.’
The corps officer led the discussion during which the council tried to under-stand all of the implications of the problem. He led them away from the tradi-tional linear problem solving method.
Quickly, it became evident that there were a number of different constituen-cies with varying point of view. The bandmaster said his drummer came from the center, had been converted and sought soldiership. The home league secre-tary, a mother of four young boys, said these people were poor models for her sons who had picked up some bad language and the smoking in the parking lot was a detriment to corps growth. This position was confronted by another member who talked about bad language on the playground and smoking in every parking lot in town.
Trying to understand the problem, they continue to struggle on the periphery of the issue—some wanting to return to past practices and others asking ques-tions like, “What’s the Army all about? I’ve got some ideas about what we could do to help the Center’s program.”
As several members offer various ideas, they begin to recognize a number of important points: that there’s no single solution but that changes can be made that provide a win/win for the multiple points of view; that any decision can be revisited in the future; that there are varying strengths and weaknesses of ideas that are neither right nor wrong, just better or worse; that you “can’t learn about the problem without trying solutions, but each has unintended consequences that may spawn new wicked problems.”
They now truly begin to understand the full dimensions of the problem and think through a number of scenarios as the discussion progresses. Conklin calls this kind of thinking opportunity driven—ideas are fleshed out, examined from all sides, and finally a decision is made. Their shared understanding has led to a rational decision that, while not everyone agrees with it, each participant has a shared commitment to the outcome.
So—got any ‘wicked problems?’ Whataya gonna do?
Wicked problems
March 11, 2011New Frontier 11
TED
Doing theMost Good
RobertDocterEditor-In-Chief
New Frontier is published twice a month by The Salvation Army USA Western Territory Commissioner James Knaggs, Territorial Commander Colonel William Harfoot, Chief Secretary
We welcome submissions of news stories of interest to the Western Territory. If you have something you’d like to share, submissions can be sent electronically to:
New Frontier online: www.newfrontierpublications.org • Facebook: tsanewfrontier
Ian RobinsonMajor
lifeLines
subscribeNow
NAME
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE ZIP
PhONE
Send this coupon along with your check or money order for $15.00 payable to The Salvation Army to:
Arlene De JesusCirculation DepartmentP.O. Box 22646180 E. Ocean Blvd. Long Beach, CA 90802.
$15.00 PER YEAR
2904
Have New Frontier delivered to your mailbox for just $15.00 per year. That’s just $1.25 per month for the Western Territorial news you need. Subscribe today.
