good news! july/august 2013

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GOOD NEWS! Volume 30 Number 6 JULY/AUGUST 2013 INSIDE Good News! Online: www.SAGoodNews.org USA Eastern Territorial website: www.ArmyConnections.org USA National website: www.SalvationArmyUSA.org RAILTON REUNION! The Railton School for Youth Worker Training graduated its last two students. PAGE 7 SERVING THE WORLD The territory contributed $9.8 million to World Services and will place ‘Hands On’ ministries in Korea and in South Africa. PAGE 20 ‘STONED’ IS STUNNING The rock musical ‘Stoned’ is a visual spectacle of dazzling sets, multicolored lighting, and a spiritual high of biblical proportions! PAGE 22 Celebration! Territory welcomes 42 new officers >> Commissioning coverage begins on page 8 >>

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Page 1: Good News! July/August 2013

GOOD NEWS!Volume 30 number 6 JUlY/aUGUST 2013

INSIDE

Good News! Online: www.SAGoodNews.org

USA Eastern Territorial website: www.ArmyConnections.org

USA National website:www.SalvationArmyUSA.org

RAILTON REUNION!The Railton School for Youth Worker Training graduated its last two students.

PAGE 7

SERVING THE WORLDThe territory contributed $9.8 million to World Services and will place ‘Hands On’ ministries in Korea and in South Africa.

PAGE 20

‘STONED’ IS STUNNINGThe rock musical ‘Stoned’ is a visual spectacle of dazzling sets, multicolored lighting, and a spiritual high of biblical proportions!

PAGE 22

Celebration!Territory welcomes 42 new offi cers >>

Commissioning coverage begins on page 8 > >

Page 2: Good News! July/August 2013

“People need to see that Jesus Christ is alive in you, that you live in Him and for Him, and that you fi nd in Jesus the fullness of life nothing else or no one else can offer.”

—General Linda Bond

This year at Commissioning, I was pleased to see the City Limits Diner reopened for business! Last year, plywood sheets covered the doors

and windows, as the Livanos family (the owners) had closed it for reno-vations.

Conveniently located across the street from the Westchester County Center, where the Eastern Territory typically has its sacred ordination & commissioning and lively appointment services, Salvationists in their bright white and deep blue uniforms hurried in for a midday meal.

Not long ago at that diner, I saw an extraordinary example of Christian love captured on cam-era. One evening as I watched the TV show “What Would You Do?” (WWYD?), I became riveted to the screen when I recognized the diner’s familiar décor, where my wife and I had enjoyed many Saturday morning breakfasts.

The show’s producers typically stage (with actors) a compelling scenario while fi lming bystand-ers’ reactions—sometimes intervening, sometimes complaining, or sometimes just leaving.

In this episode*, a young girl and a married couple pretend to be in an intense argument because the girl had reneged on an agreement to be their surrogate mother and had decided to keep the child. The actors were so convincing that when Tracy, the would–be mother, wept alone, two women, Claudine and Alice—strangers seated at separate tables—were drawn to her.

Then, something happened that left the actors, camera crew, and host of this clearly secular show stunned.

“Heavenly Father, we thank you,” prayed Alice. “For the joy of being here. … It is You who gives babies, my Father. Will you not give her a baby? We will be careful to give You the praise…”

After the show host revealed himself to the women, he interviewed them. “She looked so sad, alone,” said Claudine. “I just had to go over there.” Alice said that although they were strangers, “Mothers are never strangers to each other.”

Then “Tracy” burst into real tears and said that she didn’t have kids, but she was affected by what the women did. “With the prayer and stuff, the comforting really just touched me.”

As it turned out, Alice worked in Congo, Africa, for Unicef with women who face even greater challenges.

In an age when many of us Christians are embarrassed to publicly thank God for our lunch, it is refreshing to see a believer boldly stand and proclaim Jesus’ name so that all can hear. Unknowingly, she touched the hearts of millions.

WWYD? *Season 1, episode 44

FROM THE EDITOR >>

Prayer at City Limits? WaRRen l. Maye

Follow Good News! on Twitter @ GoodNewsSAwww.twitter.com/GoodNewsSA

Become a fan on Facebook@ GoodNewsSAwww.facebook.com/GoodNewsSA

GOOD NEWS!

USA EASTERN TERRITORYCommissioners Barry C.

and Sue SwansonTerritorial Leaders

Colonel William CarlsonChief Secretary

Linda D. JohnsonLiterary Secretary

Warren L. Maye EditorRobert Mitchell Associate EditorKeri Johnson Art DirectorReginald Raines Associate Art DirectorSaoul Vanderpool Senior DesignerKarena Lin Graphic DesignerNanette Morales Production SpecialistJoe Marino Production Assistant

Divisional News CorrespondentsCFOT — Major A. Kenneth Wilson ARCC — Major Charles DeitrickPENDEL — Randall Thomas, Major Kathryn A. AveryEmpire State — Jaye C. JonesGNY — Major Suzanne R. HickmanMass. — Drew ForsterNJ — Bramwell ApplinNEOSA — Major Thomas HinzmanNNE — Cheryl PoulopoulosPR & VI — Linette LunaSNE — James GordonSWONEKY — Major Faith MillerWEPASA — Captain Paul R. Pelletier

All articles are copyrighted by The Salvation Army, except where indicated, and can be reprinted only with written permission.

Also available in Korean and Spanish.

Statement of PurposeGood News! is the offi cial publication of The Salvation Army of the USA Eastern Territory. The purpose of Good News! is to inform, inspire, and equip Salvationists to grow in holiness, to serve together in supportive, healing communities, and to reach others for Jesus Christ.

For mailing list changes, write:Good News!, 440 West Nyack Road,West Nyack, NY 10994–1739.

GOOD NEWS!

Follow Good News! on Twitter @ GoodNewsSAwww.twitter.com/GoodNewsSA

Become a fan on Facebook@ GoodNewsSAwww.facebook.com/GoodNewsSA

BUENASBUENASNOTICIAS!

It was great talking with you on the phone. Thank you for calling. By the way, is Good News! available on audio cassette?

—Lt. Colonel Harry Poole, Hershey, Pa.

Editor’s note:Currently, the ‘text–to–speech’ feature in apple computers (and in some PCs), as well as in the Kindle and nook can audibly read Good News! online. These devices and our website also provide a large font option for easier reading.

I just learned of [Commissioner larry Moretz’s] passing. Have you published anything about his [promotion to Glory]?

—Marlene Klotz Collins, via email

Editor’s note:See GN! June 2013. also visit Good News! online, Facebook, and Twitter.

Letters

2 July/August 2013

Page 3: Good News! July/August 2013

international news >>

General Bond ends 44–year ministry High Council to convene RobeRt Mitchell

“Following a period of personal refl ection and prayer, General Linda Bond has decided that she should relinquish the

offi ce of the General effective June 13, 2013. The General’s deci-sion to step down comes after 44 years of ministry.”

As required by The Salvation Army’s constitution, the Chief of the Staff will perform the functions of the General pending the election of a new international leader.

Commissioner André Cox has summoned members of the High Council to meet July 29 to elect the 20th General of The Salvation Army. All leaders who are commissioners on active ser-vice or who are commanders or presidents of women’s ministries of whatever rank qualify for membership in the High Council.

This High Council will be the largest in the history of The Salvation Army. There will be 118 members—64 women and 54 men—with an average age of 59. Fifty–four will be attending a High Council for the fi rst time.

The High Council will not meet at its usual venue of Sunbury Court in Sunbury–on–Thames, United Kingdom, as this historic venue is currently undergoing a major refurbishment. Instead, it will meet at the Renaissance Hotel, near Heathrow to the west of London. This is not the fi rst time the High Council has con-vened away from Sunbury Court—in 1934 and 1939 proceed-ings took place at Clapton, in the East End of London.

International news releases will be issued from time to time during the course of the High Council and will be available on the International Headquarters website. The announcement of the new General will be webcast so people all around the world will learn the identity of the new General at the same time.

For the latest information go to www.salvationarmy.org/HighCouncil2013. A Twitter feed, @HighCouncil2013, has also been set up, along with a Facebook page: www.facebook.com/HighCouncil2013

On or before July 10, the U.S.A. War Cry will post a downloadable PDF of the High Council with photos and further information at: www.thewarcry.org

Eastern Territory reaches ‘Come Join Our Army’ goal

The “Come Join Our Army” campaign began in 2007 to increase the number of soldiers nationwide. Since then, the Eastern Ter-ritory has seen its junior and senior soldier rolls increase from

28,601 in July 2007 to 30,039 in March 2010, a hike of 1,438.The territory’s goal was to have had 31,463 soldiers. This year

in April, that goal was achieved.

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3www.sagoodnews.org

Page 4: Good News! July/August 2013

territorial news >>

Breath prayer lt. colonel cheRyl a. MaynoR

prayer & praise >>

It is our intention and hope to abide in the Lord constantly, to live daily with

our eyes fi xed on Jesus, to stay centered on Him. But too often we fi nd ourselves throughout the day feeling a bit off center and just needing to fi nd balance, to refocus again on the Lord Jesus. We are thankful for the unseen hand that steadies us and gently guides our daily living.

One way to bring our attention to God’s presence is through the discipline of the breath prayer. We can’t live without breathing—every breath is a gift from God, and God’s Spirit is nearer than our own breath. Breath prayer is a way of centering on God; it is a prayer of the heart.

The demands and busyness of life often draw us in many directions. A

short breath prayer settles us back into the nearness of God. Breath prayers are as simple as saying “Jesus come near.” Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, as you exhale, release yourself, repeat your breath prayer, and inhale the presence of God.

If you are interested in learning more about developing your own breath prayer and viewing the Territorial Prayer Requests, visit www.armyonitsknees.org.

—Lt. Colonel Cheryl A. Maynor is the Territorial Ambassador for Prayer

and Spiritual Formation.

Getting along in life captain JaMes haun

Therefore, we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.—2 Corinthians 4:16

Please help! An old person is

getting into my body!

As we grow older, we experi-

ence a variety of limitations. For some sharp–minded people, it could be a gradual loss of memory. For competitive types, it could be a growing inability to keep up with the younger “profession-als.” And for other people who’ve lived an effi cient lifestyle, it could seem as if they’re returning to their childhood (knocking over a milk glass placed on a table just moments ago, walking for exercise instead of running, straining to lift what was once a “light” grocery bag, or even dropping things that were easily handled by the subconscious mind). Yes, if you live long enough, you’ll discover these and other limitations.

Some people have jokingly said that growing older is akin to “demon posses-sion.” Imagine, this old person daring to try to get into you—and, as time goes

by, inevitably succeeding. As our eyes dim, and our prescription lenses thicken, we learn to see and discuss Scripture from a different point of view.

What are we to do regarding such a challenge? How do we keep that old person from entering our body? Do we grow older gracefully, or do we fi ght the inevitable every step of the way?

In 2 Corinthians 4:16 Paul says, “There-fore, we do not lose heart. Though out-wardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” When we were younger, such statements seemed irrelevant. However, our life experiences with family and friends have revealed to us the relevance of God’s words.

Verse 17 continues, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”

Therefore, we can move into the fi nal verse of 2 Corinthians chapter 4: “So we fi x our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is

temporary and superfi cial, but what is unseen is eternal.” So let us fellowship with people through understanding and patience. And let each of us, young and old alike, through encouragement, pass on our wisdom, and make allowances for other people.

For we know that our physical body is temporary and superfi cial, but our spirit is eternal.

vantage point >>

4 July/August 2013

Page 5: Good News! July/August 2013

When the church Dick and Linda Swift attended

closed in Biddeford, Maine, they wondered if The Salva-tion Army might be the church for them.

Linda, who has always been fascinated by the name “The Salvation Army,” went on an Army website and says she was “knocked out” by Found-er William Booth’s heart for down–and–out people as well as by reading the story of the “Hallelujah Lassies” (women officers who helped start The Salvation Army in the USA).

“I think the Holy Sprit leapt inside of me,” she says.

Linda called the nearby Old Orchard Beach Corps (OOB). Dick was a bit skeptical before he went to that first holiness meeting on Oct. 2, 2011.

“I really thought we’d find a few old people banging tam-bourines,” Dick recalls.

Instead, the first person they met was Commissioner W. Todd Bassett, a former Salvation Army national com-mander.

Linda recalls, “We could sense his deep walk with and

love for the Lord, and his love for the Word.”

During holiness meeting, the Swifts were equally impressed with Majors Norman and Lois Garcia, then corps officers.

“Dick and I kind of just sat there,” Linda says. “We didn’t even look at each other the whole service. We were just drinking it in.”

After the meeting, Linda saw Dick shaking hands with people and telling them the couple would be back next week.

“We never had a conversa-tion about whether this is where we wanted to go to church,” Linda says. “We both just knew. We found our home.”

The Swifts are both musi-cal and were enthralled with the Songsters. They wanted to be a part of that group. Bandmaster Drew Poulopoulos

invited them to practice that same week.

“That, to us, was pure grace because we didn’t even have to audition,” Dick recalls. “It’s a real thrill to be in something like this together, in both the church and the Songsters.”

The OOB Corps is home to a number of retired officers, and the Swifts have made friends with Lt. Colonels William (Bill) and Judy LaMarr, Lt. Colonels Gary and Pearl Asperschlager, and many more.

“We appreciate their matu-rity,” Linda says. “We appreci-ate their depth and what they bring to us.”

The Swifts are also involved in small groups and are taking

in all that the corps has to offer. They even stand kettles at Christmas. Recently, Linda started working at the corps.

“We want to be really involved,” Linda says. “We don’t just want to come for a service on Sunday morning. It feels like the ground is coming together underneath our feet. We have a foundation. We have this wonderful family we’re a part of.”

The couple volunteers at the Pavilion during the Old Orchard Beach Camp Meet-ings, and they say they are captivated by the talented speakers, musicians, and ac-tors who minister there.

“There’s so much outreach and so many beautiful min-istries in The Salvation Army, and we love the difference it makes in people’s lives,” Linda says. “We’re just excited to rub shoulders with these people.

“I just feel like our feet have not touched the ground. It’s just been a tremendous high. It’s such a joy to go to church. Sunday is my favorite day of the week and I look forward to it. It’s a spiritual feast.”

TransFormations >>

‘Church is a joy’ RobeRt Mitchell

SA supports immigration statement WaRRen l. Maye

The Salvation Army has signed on to the Evangelical Statement of Principles

for Immigration Reform issued by the Evangelical Immigration Table (EIT), a coalition of evangelicals throughout the country.

“Our national immigration laws have created a moral, economic, and political crisis in America,” the statement begins. “Initiatives to remedy this crisis have led to polarization and name calling in which opponents have misrepresented each other’s positions as open borders and amnesty versus deportations of mil-

lions,” the statement continues. “This false choice has led to an unacceptable political stalemate at the federal level at a tragic human cost.”

The EIT calls for a bipartisan solution that•Respects every person•Protects the unity of the family•Respects the rule of law•Guarantees secure national bor-

ders•Ensures fairness to taxpayers•Establishes a path toward legal

status and/or citizenship for people

who qualify and desire to become permanent residentsCommissioner William A. Roberts, na-

tional commander, signed the statement. In doing so, he joined such evangelical groups as the National Latino Evangelical Coalition, Church of the Nazarene, The Christian and Missionary Alliance, and groups such as Focus on the Family, Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship/USA, and the African American Clergy Network.

EIT originally issued the statement in 2010 but is reissuing it now to underscore its importance today.

5www.sagoodnews.org

Page 6: Good News! July/August 2013

territorial news >>

A ‘Sea Dogs’ afternoon at OOB RobeRt Mitchell

What is summer without a good baseball game?

A late addition to the 2013 Old Orchard Beach Camp Meetings schedule is a minor league game between the Portland Sea Dogs and the Richmond Flying Squirrels. The game starts at noon on “Sal-vation Army Day,” Thursday, Aug. 8, at Hadlock Field in Portland, Maine.

The festivities will include scoreboard and public service announcements; Salvation Army program displays; a brass ensemble on the con-course before the game; a Salvation Army representative throwing out the fi rst pitch; and promotional giveaways.

The Facebook page for the camp meetings announced, “We are planning to offer a

special package of a ticket and a T–shirt to people in-terested in attending what promises to be an outstand-ing family event.”

Baseball is just one of the many activities planned for this year’s camp meetings, scheduled for Aug. 3–9 in this beachfront town.

The camp meetings, with the theme of “Army Essential, Essential Army,” begin on Aug. 3 with Lieutenants

Joel and Kathleen Ashcraft and Majors Larry and Janet Ashcraft as guests during that weekend.

Joining the Ashcrafts will be The International Staff Band (ISB), Eastern Territorial Song-sters, ARC Chorus, and Territo-rial Arts Ministry (TAM) team.

The ISB will return on Aug. 5 for a concert at 7 p.m. in the Pavilion (see sidebar).

Commissioners Barry C. and Sue Swanson, territorial leaders, plan to attend the remaining camp meetings fol-lowing the conclusion of the High Council.

Dr. Bill Ury, who will lead the daily Bible study in the OOB Corps this year, will speak at 7 p.m. on Aug. 6. Ury will lead a Bible study at 10:30 each weekday morning

of the camp meetings. Mean-while, another Bible study will take place on the beach at the same time, led by Majors Thomas and Laura Lyle.

The Creative Arts Services Team (CAST) will support Doug Berky in “Kairos” on Aug. 7 (see sidebar).

The Pavilion will be closed on Aug. 8 as the festivities will move to the Pier as an out-reach to vacationers, who will see the best in Salvation Army singers, dancers, illusionists, and actors. Cross Fire Brass also will minister.

On Aug. 9, Jodi Benson, the voice of Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” and a voice actor in several other Disney fi lms, will close the camp meetings with a concert in the Pavilion at 7 p.m.

ISB has rich historyDid you ever wonder where the International Staff Band (ISB) got its name?

The name is indicative of how, during its early years, the band’s members all worked for The Salvation Army at one of its London headquarters.

The latest version of the ISB, under the direction of Dr. Stephen Cobb, music director for the United Kingdom Territory, will minister on the opening weekend of the Old Orchard Beach Camp Meetings and again in concert on Aug. 7.

The band’s executive offi cer is Major Noel Wright.

‘Kairos’ to be ‘unmasked’ Aug. 7Doug Berky, a professional mime and expert in mask creation, will be performing “Kairos,” supported by the Creative Arts Services Team (CAST), on Aug. 7 at the Old Orchard Beach Camp Meetings.

Kairos, the story of Jesus of Nazareth as found in the fi rst four Gospels, is told through the eyes of Berky, an impressionist. The production uses large stylized masks and symbolic visual images to help the audience consider the Gospel story, its context, and popular cultural assumptions.

In 2009, Berky was a guest at the TAM Conservatory. At last year’s OOB Camp Meetings, he designed the masks for CAST’s performance of “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.”

6 July/August 2013

Page 7: Good News! July/August 2013

On June 11, The Railton School for Youth Worker

Training graduated its last two students in what was also a reunion for all the graduates since the school’s inception as Project 1:17. The event was held at the College for Offi cer Training (CFOT) in Suffern, N.Y.

“This really is a celebration,” said Commissioner Barry C. Swanson, territorial command-er. Swanson quoted Ecclesiastes 3:1: “There is a time for every-thing, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”

Majors Larry and Janet Ashcraft graciously received recognition for their roles in starting Project 1:17 in 2001.

The program was based on Isaiah 1:17—“Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”

In 2007, the program’s name changed to the Railton School for Youth Worker Training and came under the direction of Envoys Steve and Sharon Bussey. In his open-ing remarks, Envoy Steve Bussey asked the alumni

of the 12–year program to stand and be recognized.

“This is the close of an impor-tant chapter in the Project 1:17/Railton School story,” he said.

The Busseys are now head-ing up the Salvation Factory, which will soon be moving to Territorial Headquarters (THQ). The goal of Salvation Factory is to develop innova-tive ideas to reach young people with the Gospel.

“We’re grateful and really excited for what the future holds for the Eastern Territo-ry,” Swanson said. “[We are] training and equipping and preparing people for service

and for ministry in productive ways for the days ahead.”

Swanson and Major Ronald R. Foreman, training principal at CFOT, presented certifi cates to Melanie DeMatteo of the Nashua, N.H., Corps and Sa-mantha George of the Berlin, N.H., Corps, the two gradu-ates of the Railton School’s Intercessors session.

Majors James and Patricia LaBossiere, commanders of the Northern New England Divi-sion, were on hand to encour-age the young women, who are both from that division.

Friends and family members prayed for DeMatteo and

George. Major Janet Ashcraft led the prayer, asking that the graduates “shine brightly” for Christ in a dark world.

Commissioner Sue Swan-son, territorial president for women’s ministries, closed with a challenging devotional.

“You are intercessors,” she said. “It’s something you do as an action.”

Swanson told how she bought a plant when she arrived in the United States but needed to ask someone more knowledgeable for help in caring for it. The graduates, she said, would someday be in a position to help people spiritually in a similar fashion.

“What if I was wanting to grow as a Christian? What if I didn’t know how? Who would I talk to?

“You’re going to have a lot of friends coming to you on this journey,” she said. “And they’ll be hungry.”

Major Larry Ashcraft, who closed the meeting in prayer, likened the graduates to “sanctifi ed subversives” who would “infi ltrate the culture and stand for the truth!”

As always, the OOB Camp Meetings will offer two

Bible studies.Dr. Bill Ury, a professor at

Wesley Biblical Seminary in Jackson, Miss., will lead one in the OOB Corps each morning at 10:30. At the same time, another Bible study led by Majors Thomas and Laura Lyle will take place on the beach.

Ury said he is planning to focus his study on perfect love.

“I am convinced that we are missing the basics of what it means to understand the love of God,” says Ury.

The study will cover the Bible’s major passages on love, including Deuteronomy 6 and the Gospel parallels, (Romans 5, 2 Corinthians 5, Colossians 3, 1 Thessalonians 5, and 1 John).

“I will be asking as fun-damental and, I hope, as profound questions as can be

asked about the love that our triune God offers,” Ury says. “And, if received by His sanc-

tifying grace, what does that love look like in our actual lives?”

territorial news >>

Ury, Majors Lyle to lead OOB Bible studies RobeRt Mitchell

Railton reunion and culmination RobeRt Mitchell

7www.sagoodnews.org

Page 8: Good News! July/August 2013

“There’s lots of joy in this room!” exclaimed Commissioner Barry C.

Swanson, territorial commander, during the commencement of 42 “Proclaim-ers of the Resurrection” session of the College for Officer Training (CFOT). He looked around the packed gym–turned–graduation hall and added, “There’s a lot of excitement in this room!”

Joining the cadets were family and friends as well as members of the Aca-demic Oversight Advisory Council. Also in attendance were retired General Paul A. Rader and Commissioner Kay F. Rader.

Commissioner Sue Swanson, territorial president of women’s ministries, prayed, “Lord, help the Proclaimers of the Resur-rection to be lifelong learners, to know You, to know YOU!”

With “Indiana Jones” theme music playing, Major Ken Wilson and Major Margaret Davis enthusiastically read the history of the training college, from its inception as a school to its relocation from 14th street to Andrews Avenue in the Bronx to its campus in Suffern, N.Y., under its new designation as a college.

At the recitation’s conclusion, a veil fell from the stage wall to reveal the college’s new seal. “For the glory of God and the salvation of the world!” said Ma-jor Davis, as red, yellow, and blue confetti shot into the air and exuberant cheering celebrated the historic moment.

Academic AwardsThen came the time to give out awards to the Proclaimers session.

“These [awards] are not just for aca-demics and head knowledge, but for the heart, feet, and hands!” said Major Eva R. Geddes, director of curriculum.

Recipients of the Doctrine Knowledge Progress Award, showing a 19 percent improvement, went to Cadets Fernie Antoine and Josué A. Alarcón Muñoz. The Doctrine Knowledge Achievement Award went to Cadet Joel M. Ashcraft, who scored 100 percent correct answers. Cadet Raquel Muñiz had the highest increase in score, 36 percent on the Bible test. And Cadet David Eric Kelly had the highest score on the Bible Knowledge and Achievement test. Cadet Marlene Diaz took home the salutatorian honor with a GPA of 3.91 (summa cum laude), and Cadet Joel M. Ashcraft was named valedictorian with a GPA of 3.95 (summa cum laude).

“Join me in disturbing the present!” said Ashcraft, concluding his valedictory speech. Using the Apostles Paul and Silas as examples, Ashcraft said, “Paul went into the synagogue and boldly pro-claimed ‘Jesus is our Messiah!’ Paul and Silas’s message was disturbing to every-one. But we must proclaim the mission, regardless of how it causes anxiety.” Quoting Catherine Booth, Ashcraft con-tinued, “ ‘If we are to better the future, we must disturb the present!’ ” He said, “The Lord and the body of believers are counting on us.”

Major Margaret Davis led an enthusi-astic rendition of the session song, com-plete with a rhythmic recitation by Cadet

Bradley Moore.Commissioner Barry Swanson in-

troduced Commissioners Torben and Deise Eliasen, zonal secretary and zonal women’s ministries secretary for the Americas & Caribbean, as representatives of International Headquarters (IHQ).

“More than to satisfy the body, we need to satisfy the soul,” said Commissioner Torben during his com-mencement address. Referencing Luke 4:1–12, where Satan tempts Jesus in the wilderness, Eliasen spoke of the “Three Stones,” or tests, that Jesus passed as He accurately recited the Word even though he was physically weakened by hunger and thirst. Under the circum-stances, He could have been enticed by personal ambition or deluded to think that God would protect Him—even if He knowingly did wrong.

“Do what is right, so that it will go well with you,” Eliasen said. “Sometimes, we proclaim one thing, but do another.”

The territorial commander presented the International Certificate of Training, which conferred upon the cadets the Associate in Applied Science degree. “[Whether] ‘School,’ or ‘college,’ this is a training institution,” the territorial com-mander said. “We are here to recognize an academic training. My responsibility is to make sure the cadets are well trained and equipped with the tools and spiritual formation needed.”

The meeting ended with everyone singing powerfully, “I’ll Go in the Strength of the Lord!”

COMMISSIONING 2013 >>

‘Joy!’Commencement Service for the Proclaimers WaRRen l. Maye

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8 July/August 2013

Page 9: Good News! July/August 2013

Solemn. Sacramental. Ordered. Emotional. Evangelistic.

All are apt adjectives to describe the Sunday, June 16, Ordination and Com-missioning service, where 42 members of the Proclaimers of the Resurrection session came to the Westchester, N.Y., County Center to become the newest officers in the USA Eastern Territory.

The New York Staff Band and Eastern Territorial Songsters set a worshipful tone for the meeting, as did a call to worship from the College for Officer Training, and the opening song, “O Worship the King,” led by Colonel William R. Carlson, chief secretary.

He commended to the congregation the territory’s new leaders, Commissioners Barry C. and Sue Swanson, as “Spirit–led.”

“This is a great day for The Salvation Army and for the Kingdom of God,” pro-claimed Commissioner Barry Swanson.

Swanson introduced Commissioners Tor-ben and Deise Eliasen, zonal secretary and zonal women’s ministries secretary for the Americas & Caribbean, as representatives of International Headquarters (IHQ) and “proud Silver–Star parents.”

He also acknowledged the presence of Lt. Colonels Gordon and Susan Daly, leaders of the newly inaugurated Spain and Portugal Command; Commissioners Israel L. and Eva D. Gaither; and Commis-

sioner Nancy Moretz, there to support her daughter, Cadet Christine Baker.

Commissioner Sue Swanson set the stage for the focus of the territorial leader’s message when she led the song “Precious Jesus.”

Commissioner Barry then said that the cadets had reached three milestones: hear-ing and responding to God’s call on their lives; signing their covenants, a “promise they made to God Himself”; and now, re-ceiving their ordination and commissioning.

In a departure from tradition, he an-nounced, “Commissioner Sue will join me as she and I execute our sacred duty and privilege.”

The cadets then came forward, one by one. Some could barely contain their joy; others’ eyes filled with tears.

In his message, Commissioner Barry spoke of equations.

“Everyone knows that one plus one equals two,” he said. “That’s the most basic equation there is.”

But he asked, “Is that always true?” Referring to Ephesians 2, he talked about how the Apostle Paul was writing to a church divided. Swanson described Paul’s advice: “We have to get along if we’re going to make this work.”

According to God, Swanson said, “one plus one equals one.” The Ephesians needed to be one body, with the two

groups reconciled through the Cross.He talked about Paul’s sweeping

statement that in Christ, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, male nor female.”

“Why is it so hard for us to remember that?” Swanson asked.

To make this our experience, he said, “We go to the Cross; there’s no other way.”

He quoted Paul saying to the Ephesians, “But now in Christ Jesus you who were once far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.... God has big tears coming down from His eyes when some-one is reconciled to Him,” Swanson said.

Quoting Paul, Swanson said that “Jesus is the cornerstone” of the church, and that we become the dwelling that God has made.

“The Salvation Army is great, but it’s not what it’s all about. It’s about being a body,” he said. “If we’re not that, who cares?”

He spoke about being in Johannes-burg, South Africa, where church leaders were dealing with reconciliation in light of apartheid.

“You talk about baggage; they had trunks of baggage,” Swanson said. He heard a black pastor who had been tortured and imprisoned call for reconcili-ation. The pastor said that in order for recovery to happen, “We must go to a new place.”

“I’ll meet you there. The Cross is the new place.”

Quietly, he issued an altar call. Then Major Thomas Lyle, territorial candidates secretary, issued a call to officership, and the platform was filled with those people who had felt the call.

‘One Plus One Equals One’Territory welcomes 42 new lieutenants linda d. Johnson

COMMISSIONING 2013 >>

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COMMISSIONING 2013 >>

Commencing, ordaining, commissioning, appointing, and ... proclaiming the ressurrection!

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Commencing, ordaining, commissioning, appointing, and ... proclaiming the ressurrection!

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Proclaimers of the Resurrection2011-2013 Session

Joel & Kathleen AshcraftBrooklyn (Bay Ridge), NY

Corps Offi cers

Donald & Debra HamiltonAlliance, OH

Corps Offi cers

Josue & Leilani AlarcónPort Chester, NY

Corps Offi cers

Joseph & Chastity HansenGeorgetown, KY

Corps Offi cers

Raymond Arocho(Major Marta Arocho)Buff alo (Citadel), NY

Corps Offi cer

Emmanuel EchavarriaNew Britain, CT

Assistant Corps Offi cer

Melvin & Celimar AlemánKroc Corps Community Center

Guyama, PRAssistant Corps Offi cers

Staci FerreiraPottsville, PA

Assistant Corps Offi cer

Frenie AntoineNew York (The Temple), NY

Assistant Corps Offi cer

Hyung Ki & Bobae Kim MoonQueens (Flushing), NY

Assistant Corps Offi cers

Duglas & Magda MendozaHempstead (Citadel), NYAssistant Corps Offi cers

Bradley MooreBarberton, OHCorps Offi cer

Maurice Moukouangala(Captain Sherry Moukouangala)

Kearny, NJCorps Offi cers

Angel & Marlene DiazFajardo, PR

Corps Offi cers

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Proclaimers of the Resurrection2011-2013 Session

Regina Denise MartinNorwalk, OHCorps Offi cer

Rafael & Thais VianaWaltham, MACorps Offi cers

Felisha DavisHyannis, MA

Assistant Corp Offi cer

Timothy & Teddy DevineBerlin, NH

Corps Offi cers

David Eric KellyWest Pittston, PA

Corps Offi cer

Sergo & Edelyne LalanneNewark (West Side), NJ

Corps Offi cers

Dabiel & Luz Cristina ValdesEaston, PA

Corps Offi cers

Christine Moretz BakerYoungstown (Citadel), OH

Corps Offi cer

Brennen HinzmanEDS (Pro Tem) – eff ective July 3

Asbury Park, NJAssistant Corps Offi cer –

eff ective August 12

Raquel Muñiz(Captain Moises Muniz)

Penuelas, PRCorps Offi cers

Kenneth & Minnie ClevelandPittsburgh (Northside), PA

Corps Offi cers

Christopher HinzmanCleveland (Hough), OHAssistant Corps Offi cer

Luis & Monica PérezSpain Command

Joseph SwistakARC Command

Trainee

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“I’ve been blessed as I’ve seen you love each other through the hardest of

times,” said Commissioner Sue Swanson as she delivered a passionate charge to the new lieutenants. She reflected on her visits to the College for Officer Train-ing since being appointed as territorial president of women’s ministries. During any given trip, she would be sure to see cadets hard at work in class; or on their knees praying earnestly for family; or with cleanser and cloth in hand, vigorously scrubbing the gym or bathroom floors.

Swanson focused on the process of fully embracing one’s God–given ap-pointment. In doing so, she pointed

to Luke’s account in the book of Acts. “Mark’s account [of Jesus’ story] is not the end. Acts continues it as the apostles came to know about and to share the news of His resurrection. They received their first appointment.”

Swanson encouraged the new lieuten-ants to go to their appointment as if they were returning to the place where loved ones had raised them. “Have a party, unpack, throw away the boxes, dig in, and make it your home!” she said.

She said that the confidence to take such action would come from realizing, that “He has gone ahead of you. There, you will see Him as you become part of

the community, sent with the sacred, imperishable proclamation of the Resur-rection. My prayer is that He will write His Resurrection story in your life. Now, go home!”

In his witness to the lieutenants, Com-missioner Torben Eliasen, zonal secretary for the Americas & Caribbean, offered his personal five–word mission statement, derived from John 17:13–19: 1. Felicity (joyfulness), 2. Immunity (protection from the evil one), 3. Sanctity (holiness, truth), 4. Unity (togetherness), and 5. Globality (ability to engage the world). Eliasen said, “You can be sanctified—regardless of the size of your sin. Keep following

COMMISSIONING 2013 >>

‘Now, go home!’An Appointment Service Celebration WaRRen l. Maye

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‘Now, go home!’An Appointment Service Celebration WaRRen l. Maye

Jesus and this will be your reality!”Commissioner Barry C. Swanson,

territorial commander, said of the ter-ritory’s World Services grand total of $9,893,226.95, “We are a giving and a going Army! We should give because we care about people in the world. It’s what God teaches us and commands us to do.” He reflected on what the Army is doing globally in 126 nations: “We are still one mission, one message, one Army!”

He also recognized Majors Andrew and Becky Murray, who will soon assume overseas appointments the Hands On mission teams who will minister this sum-mer in South Africa and in Korea; and the Summer Brass and CAST, which will

spread the Gospel around the territory through music and drama.

Commissioner Swanson and Major Ronald R. Foreman, training principal, recognized Lieutenant Dabiel Valdes. Be-cause of his spiritual influence, Salvation-ism, and overall excellence, he received this year’s Commissioner’s Award.

Lieutenant Raquel Muñiz, session speaker, delivered a message from Ephe-sians 1:13–14. “God has placed each of us to be here in this moment,” she said. “Be bold, stand up, and speak up. Be not ashamed of the truth in your hands!”

Family by family, one by one, the lieutenants quickly marched forward and received their appointments from

the territorial commander. Lt. Colonel Gordon Daly from the Spain and Portugal Command personally appointed Luis and Monica Pérez to be corps officers in the Canary Islands. Lieutenants Hyung Ki and Bobae Kim Moon, who came to training from South Korea, will stay in the U.S. as assistant corps officers in the Queens (Flushing) Corps. For a complete listing of appointments, see pp. 12–13.)

Music by the New York Staff Band, Eastern Territorial Songsters, and the College for Officer Training Timbrelists set a wonderful spirit for worship and celebration, and the service ended with the traditional, “I’ll Go in the Strength of the Lord.”

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Brass Soloist Level I1st PLAcE Noah Kelly Montclair Citadel, NJ2nd PLAcE Rachel Dina Cleveland Temple, NEOSA3rd PLAcE Wesley Howard Middletown, SWONEKY

Brass Soloist Level II1st PLAcE Sharai Isler New York Manhattan Citadel, GNY2nd PLAcE Jessica Smith Columbus Citadel, SWONEKY3rd PLAcE Caroline Wadja Schenectady, Empire

Brass Soloist Level III1st PLAcE Jonathan George Montclair Citadel, NJ2nd PLAcE Manny Zabala Spring Valley, GNY3rd PLAcE Helen Wajda Schenectady, Empire

Brass Soloist Level IV1st PLAcE Andrew Dressler Syracuse Onondaga Tabernacle, Empire2nd PLAcE Jonathan Collier Philadelphia Citadel, PENDEL3rd PLAcE Charlie Knickerbocker Hempstead Citadel, GNY

COMMISSIONING 2013 >>

Star Search 2013 Award Winners

Vocal Soloist Level I1st PLAcE Ruth Setty Keene, NNE2nd PLAcE Brook-Lynn Slous Spring Valley, GNY3rd PLAcE Lillian Jache Punxsutawney, WEPASA

Vocal Soloist Level II1st PLAcE Kaytlin Childs Manchester, SNE2nd PLAcE Giana McGuire East Liverpool, NEOSA3rd PLAcE Kiara Rolon Seaford Sussex Chapel,

PENDEL

Vocal Soloist Level III1st PLAcE Alexa Davis Spring Valley, GNY2nd PLAcE Holly Crowell Old Orchard Beach

Citadel, NNE3rd PLAcE Ethan Soza Akron Citadel, NEOSA

Vocal Soloist Level IV1st PLAcE Chelsea Rice Canandaigua, Empire2nd PLAcE Leavona Genuso Staten Island Stapleton, GNY3rd PLAcE Jacob Rhoades Norwich, SNE

Piano Soloist Level I1st PLAcE William Howard Middletown, SWONEKY2nd PLAcE Brook-Lynn Slous Spring Valley, GNY3rd PLAcE Alexa Gulliver Lebanon, PENDEL

Piano Soloist Level II1st PLAcE Gavrilla Wicaksono Ithaca, Empire2nd PLAcE Meredith Dalrymple Pittsburgh Temple, WEPASA3rd PLAcE Tommy Pierce Atlantic City, NJ

Piano Soloist Level III1st PLAcE Sean Mikolinis Kingston, GNY2nd PLAcE Abigail Pastin Boyertown, PENDEL3rd PLAcE Celestin Nkounkou Tonawanda, Empire

Piano Soloist Level IV1st PLAcE Gianina Wicaksono Ithaca, Empire

Snare Drum Level I1st PLAcE Timothy Jefferson Newark Ironbound, NJ2nd PLAcE Geneustace Wicaksono Ithaca, Empire3rd PLAcE Jake Lyle Akron Citadel, NEOSA

Snare Drum Level II1st PLAcE Philip Betts Montclair Citadel, NJ2nd PLAcE Jonathan Davidson Staten Island Stapleton, GNY

Snare Drum Level III1st PLAcE Marcos Lopez San Juan Central Temple, PR/VI2nd PLAcE Tyion Wilson Dover, PENDEL3rd PLAcE Alex Dressler Syracuse Onondaga

Tabernacle, Empire

Snare Drum Level IV1st PLAcE Jacob Slous Spring Valley, GNY2nd PLAcE Jalen Smith Rochester Northwest,

Empire

Sacred Dance SoloistLevel I 1st PLAcE Megan Pastin Boyertown, PENDEL2nd PLAcE Sade Gage Newburgh, GNY3rd PLAcE Macy Jackson Mt. Vernon, NEOSA

Sacred Dance SoloistLevel II 1st PLAcE Summar Bussey Spring Valley, GNY2nd PLAcE Dequnya Simms Portland Citadel, NNE3rd PLAcE Paige Dloguse Flemington, NJ

Sacred Dance SoloistLevel III 1st PLAcE Makayla Garrett Ocean County Citadel, NJ2nd PLAcE Candra Quetant Stamford, SNE3rd PLAcE Emily Pastin Boyertown, PENDEL

Sacred Dance SoloistLevel IV 1st PLAcE Marcus Lay Aliquippa, WEPASA2nd PLAcE Sara George Montclair Citadel, NJ3rd PLAcE Paula Baigorria New York Manhattan

Citadel, GNY

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Drama Monologue Level I 1st PLAcE Hailey Mauk Cleveland Temple, NEOSA2nd PLAcE Antonio Garcia New York Manhattan

Citadel, GNY3rd PLAcE Riley Neville Lowell, MASS

Drama Monologue Level II 1st PLAcE Giana McGuire East Liverpool, NEOSA2nd PLAcE Sam Lloyd Spring Valley, GNY3rd PLAcE Eric Velasquez Dover, NJ

Drama Monologue Level III 1st PLAcE Latten Williams New York Manhattan

Citadel, GNY2nd PLAcE Matthew Spencer Boyertown, PENDEL3rd PLAcE Laura Hevenor Lowell, MASS

Drama Monologue Level IV 1st PLAcE Molli Webb Middletown, SWONEKY2nd PLAcE Ashley Pannetta Utica Citadel, Empire3rd PLAcE Paula Baigorria New York Manhattan

Citadel, GNY

Acoustic Guitar Level I1st PLAcE Riley Forster Boston Kroc Center, MASS2nd PLAcE Samantha Adams Bristol, SNE3rd PLAcE Robert Vargas Newburgh, GNY

Acoustic Guitar Level II1st PLAcE Raaya Brooks Dayton Kroc Center,

SWONEKY2nd PLAcE Peyton Slous Spring Valley, GNY3rd PLAcE Eric Velasquez Dover, NJ

Timbrel Brigade Level A1st PLAcE Philadelphia Citadel PENDEL2nd PLAcE Bath/Brunswick NNE3rd PLAcE Sidney SWONEKY

Timbrel Brigade Level B1st PLAcE Akron Citadel NEOSA2nd PLAcE Spring Valley GNY3rd PLAcE Philadelphia Citadel PENDEL

Sacred Dance Troupe Level A 1st PLAcE Montclair Citadel NJ2nd PLAcE Painesville Citadel NEOSA3rd PLAcE Dayton Kroc Center SWONEKY

Sacred Dance Troupe Level B 1st PLAcE Cleveland Hough NEOSA2nd PLAcE Templo de Queens GNY3rd PLAcE Dayton Kroc Center SWONEKY

corps Youth Band 1st PLAcE Montclair Citadel NJ2nd PLAcE New York Manhattan Citadel GNY3rd PLAcE San Juan Central Temple PR/VI

Singing company 1st PLAcE Camden Citadel NJ2nd PLAcE Kingston GNY3rd PLAcE Seaford Sussex Chapel PENDEL

Youth chorus 1st PLAcE Montclair Citadel NJ2nd PLAcE Akron Citadel NEOSA3rd PLAcE Hartford Citadel SNE

Drama Troupe Level A 1st PLAcE New York Manhattan Citadel GNY2nd PLAcE Boyertown PENDEL3rd PLAcE Camden Citadel NJ

Drama Troupe Level B 1st PLAcE New York Manhattan Citadel GNY2nd PLAcE Montclair Citadel NJ3rd PLAcE Braddock WEPASA

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Corps News >>

Building character, families, and healthy bodies

Bronx, NY Malden, MA

SPRInG cLEAnInG

Brockton, MA—In April, the “character–building” troops (Girl Guards, Sunbeams, Ad-venture Corps, Explor-ers, and Moonbeams) helped spruce things up at the corps.

Lieutenant Rebecca Kirk, corps officer, said the youth cleaned the food pantry and pro-gram area.

“It was awesome to see the youth of our corps get their hands dirty and give back!” Kirk says. “They en-thusiastically gave their time to help us out.”

An ‘AGGRESSIVE’ cAMPAIGn

Bronx, nY—On April 28, the Tremont Corps celebrated the Interna-tional Day of Children

with an evangelistic festival.

“This event was part of the most aggressive campaign of disciple-ship and outreach that we have had in some time,” said Captain Gerardo Balmori.

Earlier in the month, the Balmoris had chal-lenged their soldiers to double Sunday atten-dance in a year or less.

So the corps planned the festival in about a week.

“We printed flyers and we dedicated ourselves to invite our neighbors and acquain-tances to participate with us,” he said.

More than 500 people, including 200 children, showed up. Clowns gave out toys and free hot dogs.

“More than 30 peo-ple received the Lord or

became reconciled with Him,” said Balmori.

The following Sun-day, as many as 20 children and 15 adults came to Sunday school for the first time.

FocuS on AnTI–TRAFFIckInG

columbus, ohio—On May 5, the Area Com-mand held its World Services In–Gathering at the East Main Corps.

Psalm 10, read by various members of the congregation in their own languages, was the call to worship.

Trish Smouse, the program director of an anti–human trafficking coalition and a soldier at the East Main Corps, brought a stirring ac-count of her mission trip to Thailand. Her moving presentation showed

how a church can assist people in need.

Derek Kirkland based his devotional on “The Prodigal Son” in Luke 15. Reflecting on his own prodigal experi-ence, he reminded everyone that God is always faithful in wait-ing for us.

AnYonE FoR TEA?

Delaware, ohio—As the women of the corps arrived at the Hill Lodge on May 4 for their an-nual tea party, they were welcomed by flutter-ing—of camera shutters and beautiful butterflies.

After a time of fel-lowship, Ginny Wells of Women’s Ministries welcomed the women. Lieutenant Aaron Moore, corps officer, led songs, followed by a testimony from

Nancy Davis and Emily Dougherty singing “I Must Have the Savior with Me.”

Major Kathy Foster engaged the women in table games. Lynn Dougherty read Romans 12:2, which prepared the way for “The Lord’s Tea,” devotions led by Lieutenant Wanessa Moore, corps officer.

LARGEST SunDAY SchooL In

MASSAchuSETTS

Fall River, MA—The youth of the Fall River, Mass., Corps were recognized at Youth Councils for having the largest Sunday school in the division for 2012.

“We’re so excited because the youth love inviting their friends to try our Sunday school, and once they try it,

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Malden, MA Tonowanda, NY

they become regulars,” says Tyler Crowell, the youth ministries director.

MEMoRIAL DAY PIcnIc

Greensburg, PA—The corps organized a Memorial Day breakfast for the people who come to the free lunch program.

“I think having a pic-nic with these folks is a great way to let them know they are cared for and have a family here at The Salvation Army,” said Captain Pamela Rhodes, who, with Captain David Rhodes, are the corps officers.

“Having a picnic like this helps us extend the hand of dignity and respect to people who are often nameless and looked down on in society.”

Rain moved the pic-

nic inside, where tables were decorated with red, white, and blue covers and a U.S. flag centerpiece.

hEALTh, nuTRITIonGRADuATES

Queens, nY—Fifteen members of the Senior Citizens Club of the Ja-maica Citadel Commu-nity Center graduated on May 13 after taking a course in health & nutrition.

“Members learned to prepare healthy meals to keep them in good shape,” said Captain Louis Guillaume.

Cornell University’s extension services sponsored the course.

FREE IcE cREAM!

Malden, MA—Mem-bers of KIDSfeast of

the Mystic Valley Corps distributed free ice cream during Salvation Army Week.

The ice cream was available May 15 out-side the Malden train station.

“The kids were very excited to pass out the ice cream to everyone who came off the train,” said Major Joy Labbe.

JunIoR SonGSTERS MInISTER

norwich, cT—On May 3, junior song-sters from the corps performed at a World Youth Day event in their community.

“We are proud of these young people for their willingness and bravery to witness and glorify the Lord,” says Captain Jerry Uttley.

“They sang ‘God’s Love is Sufficient.’ It is an important message that the world needs to know—that God’s love is enough and is all that is needed.”

RAISInG MonEY AGAInST

TRAFFIckInG

Waterbury, cT—More than 100 people turned out on April 27 when the corps held a World Services dinner to raise $2,000 to fight human trafficking.

Major Annette Lock, corps officer, said the corps cadet brigade, advisory board, and corps members sold tickets to a pasta din-ner. There also was a talent show, auction items, and a drama.

The guest speaker, Lt. Colonel Carole Bate,

the territorial human trafficking consultant, shared information on the work of the Army and “sensitively increased awareness of this evil,” Lock said.

MARchInG In PARADE

Tonowanda, nY—On May 26, nearly 56 young people and adults took part in a Memorial Day parade.

“We were one of the two bands participat-ing,” says MajorCelestin Nkounkou. “We were the only group with youth par-ticipating.”

The Salvation Army band participated at the service by playing “Armed Forces Tribute” and leading the audi-ence in singing “God Bless America.”

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world services >>

USA Eastern territory’s gift to World Services

‘ We are a giving and a going Army! We should give because we care about

people in the world. It’s what God teaches us and commands us to do.’

— Commissioner Barry C. Swanson, territorial commander

ToTALS BY coMMAnD

Eastern Pennsylvania/Delaware Division $732,216.88

Empire State Division $498,300.49

Greater New York Division $889,878.94

Massachusetts Division $674,563.49

New Jersey Division $517,846.15

Northeast Ohio Division $542,351.09

Northern New England Division $299,806.30

College for Officer Training $27,612.17

Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands Division $49,538.08

Southern New England Division $321,610.36

Southwest Ohio/Northeast Kentucky Division $472,880.24

Western Pennsylvania Division $539,650.86

Adult Rehabilitation Centers Command $336,541.92

Territorial Headquarters $851,455.63

World Services Endowment $3,138,974.35

Grand ToTal $9,893,226.95

Hands On Mission teams to Korea and to South Africa pray for God’s blessing during the World Services presentation at the Proclaimers of the Resurrection session’s Appointment Service.

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world services >>

The beautiful South America West Ter-ritory encompasses the four countries

of Chile, Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador. It was our privilege recently to travel to the Altiplano Division of Bolivia. The Alti-plano region, centered around the city of La Paz, boasts altitudes of up to almost 4,000 meters (about 12,000 feet). The altitude required a time of adjustment for us, just as for all travelers, as it can cause some sickness and discomfort.

God timed our visit. Shortly after we arrived, our hosts rushed us to the hos-pital where a young active officer was in intensive care. This 37–year-old mother of two children was promoted to Glory just 24 hours later.

It was a privilege, as well as a heartache, to participate in her funeral. We saw the phenomenal support of the Salvationist community and the communion of believ-ers as they gathered around her family.

God is working mightily in the Bolivia Altiplano Division under the leadership of Majors Sixto and Aída Alí. We later vis-ited the city of Potosí, Bolivia, which is at an even higher altitude than La Paz. We

believe that it is the highest appointment in the Army world! The Army’s work in Potosí includes:

•The Central Corps, where we enjoyed a united meet-ing with soldiers and friends from throughout the city.

•The Villa Cantería Outpost and Learn-ing Center, which serves hundreds of children who live in this impoverished area. The children come in morning and in afternoon “shifts” as the public schools operate on a double–session basis.

•The Wasinchej “Cerca del Cielo” (“Near the Heavens”) Children’s Home. This home houses up to 48 children, with no government support. An international project recently allowed us to improve the facility, but it still needs to be com-

pleted. The home is unique in that it houses both boys and girls, thus allow-ing siblings to reside in the same home.

Life can be difficult in Bolivia. The minimum wage is about 1,000 bolivianos per month ($150 US), so people must work hard to support their families. But education is improving greatly, and many young Bolivians are now attending universities. The Ejército de Salvación is growing by leaps and bounds in Bolivia!

South America West Territory Bolivia: ‘Near the Heavens’ lt. colonels WilliaM and loRRaine baMfoRd

We have been in Australia at the Blacktown City Corps for seven

months. This vibrant ministry is in the middle of Western Sydney, a multicultural community.

Blacktown is a busy corps with many ministry outlets. The corps has a well–known 15 member band, which plays at events and locations throughout the year as well as every Sunday at the corps and during open–air meetings.

Fifty women come to the corps every Tuesday for Home League. They do many activities, including crafts, tim-brels, prayer meeting, and more. They visit nursing homes—“to visit those old people”—as they would say. (Our oldest

active member is 93!)The corps has wonderful youth and

children’s programs. We have recently revamped Sunday school, and we are advertising the children’s programs in the neighborhood.

The Salvation Army in Australia is in many ways similar to the Army in the United States, yet it is also different.

In Australia, the Army offers additional outreach programs to the community: Moneycare (financial guidance), Youthlink (help for at–risk youth), Employment Plus, and Salvos Legal. There is a lot to learn about The Salvation Army in Australia, but we are enjoying it and love the new adventures God gives us.

We thank God for the people we are meeting on a day–to–day basis, as well as our congregation. They are an amaz-ing group of people who are on fire for God. We are blessed.

Adventures in Australia Eastern Territory captains WilliaM & susanne GeRacia

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For more information contact Derek Lance at D erek . lance @use. s a lvat ionarmy.org

‘Stoned’ is stunning WaRRen l. Maye

commissioning 2013 >>

“So you came to a musical called ‘Stoned,’” says the narra-tor (Ian Evans) as he walks into a spotlight. As this visual

spectacle of dazzling sets, multicolored lighting effects, and scenic backdrops unfolds, you soon realize it’s a rock musical designed to give you a spiritual high of biblical proportions. Before it’s over, you learn a lot more about martyrdom than about drug use.

Based on the book Stoned by Amber Hood, it held the audi-ences’ attention with an array of nonstop surprises and plot twists that took us back in time to Jerusalem 35 AD and to the life of Saul of Tarsus. And despite its deadly serious focus on martyrdom for the sake of Christ, Hood tested the audience’s capacity to laugh at the characters’ jokes, even at times when they might seem inappropriate from a real–world perspective.

Ironically, making light of various situations in the story helped to instill it with an added sense of mortality, but at times it teetered on the edge of acceptability. For example, I’ll always remember Paul’s (Jonathon Shaffstall) and Silas’s (Kip Moore) hymn singing while in jail.

Original music written and arranged by Doug Berry and per-formed by the Stoned Band was outstanding and added to the already high–energy, fast–paced, and masterful production by Carol Jaudes, territorial arts ministries director, as well as direc-tion and choreography by Hood.

At the end, you go home satisfied that you’ve seen the closest thing to Broadway this side of the Tappan Zee Bridge (staged at the Purchase College Performing Arts Center, Pur-chase, New York). But even more, you get the message; Don’t wait to be blinded by God or stoned and murdered by the en-emy before you’re fully transformed by the presence of Christ. P

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MAJOR DONNA PETERSON

ENVOYS DOUGLAS & HÉLÈNE KORNWOLF

July 10–14 St. Augustine, FL July 31–Aug. 9 OOB Camp MeetingsAug. 14–18 Portland, ME, ARCAug. 26–29 Pittsfi eld, MAAug. 30–Sept 1 Athol, MA

July 3–8 Campaign Providence ARCJuly 17–22 Wilmington ARCAug 1–9 OOB Camp MeetingsAug 11 Bath, ME, Sunday Service

All dates are subject to change

Territorial Headquarters will be pleased to schedule the territorial evangelists to appear at your corps or unit at no cost to you. Please call the territorial evangelists’ offi ce at (845) 620–7676 for more information.

Promoted to Glory

territorial news >>

MAJOR HILDA MARGARET CLARKMay 6, 1925—April 19, 2013

Major Hilda Clark was promoted to Glory from the Jersey Shore Medi-cal Center.

Hilda was one of six children born into the Salvation-ist family of John and Hilda Cowin

in Cobourg, Ontario, Canada. She was converted in 1933 at the age of 8 at the Cobourg Corps.

Hilda moved to the United States in 1945 and settled in Lawrence, Mass., where she became active at the Lawrence Corps.

Hilda entered offi cer training in the Bronx in 1958 from the Lawrence Corps. She was commissioned in 1959 as an as-sistant at the Booth Memorial Hospital in Flushing, N.Y.

In 1961, Hilda married then–Lieutenant Gordon Clark. Together, they served as corps offi cers throughout Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. Hilda became a citizen in 1978. They retired in 1994 and settled in Asbury Park, N.J.

Her husband, Gordon, was promoted to Glory in 2010.

Survivors include a daughter, Major Susan Kelly of Dobbs Ferry, N.Y.; two sons, Captain Timothy Clark of Bangor, Maine, and the Rev. Thomas Clark of West Yar-mouth, Mass.; and a brother, David Cowin of Ontario, Canada. A son, John William Clark, preceded her to Glory. Cards may be sent to Major Susan Kelly, 160 Northfi eld Ave., Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522–1517.

COMMISSIONER ORVAL TAYLORMay 21, 1919—June 8, 2013

Commissioner Orval Taylor, a former territorial commander of the USA Eastern Territory, was promoted to Glory.

In 1940, Orval became an offi cer from Seattle, Wash., Citadel, having entered the Western Territory’s training college the previous year. Three years later, he married Captain Muriel Upton in a ceremony conducted by Orval’s father at the Seattle Citadel Corps. His partner in ministry was born in Saskatchewan, Canada, but in 1937 became an offi cer from Long Beach, Calif.

Orval’s fi rst appointment was at a corps community center in his home-town. For the next 12 years, further corps appointments followed. In addition to his regular appointments, Orval was con-stantly engaged in state welfare work,

including serving on territorial and national committees on children and youth.

In 1952, the Taylors en-gaged in divisional headquar-ters work, and in 1971, they were transferred to the East-ern Territory. Orval became the divisional commander in the Greater New York Unifi ed

Command. In 1974, he was appointed as chief secretary for the Southern Terri-tory, and in 1978 became national chief secretary.

An appointment as territorial com-mander in the Caribbean preceded Taylor’s appointment as international secretary for planning and development at International Headquarters.

In 1983, he was appointed territorial commander in the USA Eastern Territory, where he served until 1986.

Throughout his service, Orval combined a keen analytical approach to his work with warmth for colleagues and an appreciation for them and their effort. A compassionate heart balanced his incisive thinking.

Orval and Muriel retired to Clearwater, Fla., where they continued as active members of the corps and their commu-nity at “On Top of the World.”

Commissioner Muriel Taylor was pro-moted to Glory in 2010.

Survivors include a son, Michael, and daughter, Kathleen Parker. Cards may be sent to Kathleen Parker, 2324 E. Desert Cove Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85021. Michael may be contacted at [email protected].

Launching Good News!

As territorial commander, Commis-sioner Orval Taylor launched the fi rst issue of Good News! in 1984. An amalgamation of several territo-rial newsletters and departmental publications, the territory’s paper of record began publishing monthly and continues to this day. ‘We hope you’ll fi nd this publication helpful, interest-ing, and inspiring,’ wrote Taylor. ‘There is much to be positive about.’

23www.sagoodnews.org

Page 24: Good News! July/August 2013

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