CenConnApr09

THE SALVATION ARMY10 W. Algonquin RoadDes Plaines, Illinois 60016

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

The Salvation Army / USA Central Territory

News and Views from the Midwest

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

Held on Valentine’s Dayweekend, Re:Generation gaveyoung adults the opportunity toworship and celebrate God’s lovewhile considering the importance ofcaring for others. The holiday wasmarked by a banquet complete withphoto booth, dancing and fun thriftstore inspired outfits (some evensported by divisional youth secre-taries!).

Led by Eric Himes and supportedby Majors Bob and Collette Webster,territorial youth secretaries,Re:Generation provided opportuni-ties and experiences designed tospur young adults on to active,responsible participation in the life,

Continued on page 4

Photosby

KeriShay

General convenes InternationalConference of Leaders

Re:Generation drawsrecord crowd

Volume 39, Number 4 April 2009

If you’ve been to theNational Seminar onEvangelism (NSE)at the Glen Eyrie

Conference Center inColorado Springs, Colo.,you’re sure to have had amountain top experience.Another one awaits you.On the Saturday morning of

the Power Point weekend, June 12th-14th, in Merrillville, Ind., join withother former delegates and staff fora reunion event designed especiallyfor you with a Western theme and apassionate focus: winning the worldfor Christ!You’ll be delighted by the great

fellowship and a “wrangler’s” break-fast buffet. You’ll be inspired by tes-timonies and an address by our ter-ritorial leaders, CommissionersBarry C. and E. Sue Swanson. You’llbe called to action to pray for theunsaved.This event will launch a year of

prayer in our territory for theunsaved; in fact, each person invitedshould bring the names of threeunsaved people to the Saturdaymorning breakfast.“All of us know at least one person

who has yet to meet Jesus Christ.Many of us know someone who has

met Christ but has driftedfar from his or her rela-tionship with Him,” saidCaptain Carol Lewis,territorial evangelismand corps growth secre-tary. “I remember wellthe song made famous by

Babbie Mason, ‘Each one,reach one,’ and it is still true

today. According to CommissionerSamuel Logan Brengle, the soul-win-ner’s prayer must be definite, bold,and persevering for the glory of God,according to His will and mixed withfaith, as believing prayer.”She concluded, “We are asking our

friends in the Central Territory whohave attended NSE in years past tojoin us at this reunion breakfast aswe reignite a passion to pray for lostsouls in our territory through joyfuland purposeful prayer.”Former Central NSE delegates or

faculty who want to attend thereunion breakfast and be a part ofthis important prayer movementshould contact the evangelism andcorps growth department at territor-ial headquarters before April 24,2009, at (847) 294-2226 or see theircorps officer.

*Note: This event is free to NSE dele-gates and staff with tickets.

NSE reunion slated forPower Point weekend

by Michael Steinsland

Re:Generation, the annualterritorial young adult con-ference, drew a recordattendance of more than

250 people who traveled from everydivision in the Midwest to CampMihaska in the Midland Division.With the theme, “I [heart] others,”participants were challenged toreflect on the biblical concepts ofunity, identity, ministry and holi-ness.The conference opened Friday

evening with messages from territo-rial leaders Commissioners Barry C.

and E. Sue Swanson, who spoke onPhilippians 2 and offered advice forChristian living.Special guests Majors Geoff and

Sandra Ryan delivered messagesreflective of the hands-on ministrythey have at the 614 Regent ParkCorps in Toronto, Canada. A simplestatement from Major Sandra Ryanresonated throughout the weekend,“You won’t hear anything new thisweekend. What you need to ask iswhy you are here. What is your pur-pose for being here? You are nothere by accident; God has broughtyou here for a reason.”

General Shaw Clifton hasconvened a meeting ofthe most senior leaders ofThe Salvation Army to

gather in London, England, fromJuly 7-13, 2009.Salvation Army leaders from

every territory and every commandin the world will be present, withsenior officers from InternationalHeadquarters. The total numberattending will be 135, including theGeneral, the world president ofwomen’s ministries and the chief ofthe staff. Commissioners Barry C.and E. Sue Swanson will attend fromthe Central Territory.The conference’s main purpose

will be to seek the guidance of Godfor the future witness and service ofthe Army globally. The conferencealso will address current internation-al issues which affect the life andwork of The Salvation Army aroundthe world. In addition, the event pro-vides a valuable opportunity forsenior leaders to meet one anotherin Christian fellowship, to be inprayer together, and to feed uponGod’s Word.The General asks Salvationists to

pray for this key event both in thesemonths of preparation and for thedays of the conference itself.

Adapted from an International NewsRelease

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

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

There you have it; even theexperts who define wordson the web recognize thesignificance of the word

“soldier” to The Salvation Army.FreeDictionary.com further de-

scribes a soldier as someone whoenlisted, who serves, is active, loyaland a militant follower. Is that you?How about the person sitting next toyou on Sunday?“Our Come Join Our Army” initia-

tive began in June 2007. ThroughDecember 2008 we enrolled 1,773new soldiers—972 junior and 801senior—in the Central Territory.Unfortunately, while new people are

joining, an even higher number arebeing removed. We need to stop thattrend, and you can help!Take ownership of “Come Join Our

Army!” Encourage and invite peoplewho attend regularly to become sol-diers; contact inactive soldiers andfriends you haven’t seen for a whileand encourage them to come back;take a look inward. Are you the kindof soldier who attracts others? Take alook at your corps building. Is itinviting, clean and conducive to wor-ship and service?I was looking through some things

at home the other day and cameacross my Articles of War (now The

Soldier’s Covenant). I notedthe date, April 14, 1963. Iwas 14 years old when Isigned that covenant.Thinking about that timein my life, I rememberedthe bandmaster whomade me feel my bassdrum part at Letter C inthe cornet solo Jubilatewas the most importantpart in the band; a corps cadet coun-selor who made sure my lessonswere well done, complete and in ontime; corps officers, not only thoseappointed to my corps but all overthe division, who took an interest inme, knew my name and did every-thing they could to nurture me inmy faith. Did I want to be a soldier?You bet! I have never regretted it.

GetConnected!Check out our complementary material on the web.

www.usc.salvationarmy.org/getconnected

Resources/LinksNew youth website

Jr. Community Care pages on website

World Missions

Fighting Force Funds and application form

National Seminar on Evangelism brochure

A list of books on forgiveness and healing

Web exclusivesNew soldier testimonies from the AdultRehabilitation Center

First person perspective of a CorrectionalServices Bible Correspondent grader

VBS timeline and ideas

Creative ways to recognize your volunteers

Neighborhood Prayer WalkJoin with other Salvationists on Saturday,

June 13th, as a strong witness in theGary/Merrillville, Ind., Corps’ neighborhood.As you walk, you’ll pray for the community,the corps’ neighbors, the joys and hopes forthe Gary/Merrillville Corps. This will be atime for us to support The Salvation Army’swork in the area.If you’ve never participated in a prayer walk

before, come experience a new, powerful andwonderful way of learning how to pray foryour neighbors: those you know, and thoseyou don’t. The prayer walk will be guided bya list of requests drawn up in consultationwith the corps officer.

Power Point 24/7 Prayer EventIn Helps to Holiness, Commissioner Samuel

Logan Brengle writes, “All great soul-winnershave been men of much and mighty prayer,and all great revivals have been preceded andcarried out by persevering, prevailing knee-work in the closet.”The Power Point weekend will be bathed in

prayer as delegates have anopportunity to pray for an hourany time throughout the week-end. A special prayer room willbe set aside at the Radisson Hotelso delegates can do their “knee-

work” 24/7. Come pray for revival, souls tobe won for Christ, and many other prayerrequests from throughout the CentralTerritory!

A Year of PrayerImagine officers, soldiers and friends

throughout the Central Territory, prayingdaily for specific prayer topics for 365days. Can we do it? Yes we can! PowerPoint delegates will receive a prayer calen-dar which will begin during the PowerPoint weekend and continue through thevisit of General Shaw Clifton andCommissioner Helen Clifton in June 2010.Topics will include praying for theunsaved, The Salvation Army’s mission,youth discipleship, Ray and Joan KrocCorps Community Centers, leadership,and, of course, the General.In the words of Florence Booth from The

Powers of Salvation Army Soldiers: “No mat-ter how much we may labor, our toil willbe unblessed by God if it is not hallowedby prayer.”

Register for Power Point online.

Power Point Events

Taking ownershipby Lt. Colonel Richard Vander WeeleSecretary for Program

sol·dier (so–l′jər) n. 1. a member of an army, any rank; 2. a guardsman;3. a member of The Salvation Army (http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/soldier).

Make “Come Join Our Army” per-sonal. Appoint yourself a recruiter ofone, take a genuine interest in peo-ple, encourage them, disciple themand help them grow in their faith.It’s more than a campaign; it’s morethan a slogan. It’s about us andgrowing an Army committed to thecause of Christ.

The Davenport River Valley, Iowa, Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) enrolled two new sol-diers, Gerald Ironshield and Robert McDowell, reported ARC Administrators Majors Russand Jan Sjogren. Both men had expressed interest in soldiership last fall and faithfullyattended recruits classes. Upon their successful completion, each were individually inter-viewed as to their readiness and desire to “Come Join our Army.” Gerald and Robert wereeach firmly convinced God had called them to soldiership within the ranks of The SalvationArmy. And, each man’s desire was to be enrolled in full uniform in front of the other benefi-ciaries, soldiers, adherents and friends.

A cloud of witnesses

June 12 – 14, 2009

Finding community

Poor in spirit, rich in new life

nature of the corps community, theygradually began to attend Sundaymorning worship as well. Althoughreluctant at first, due to their Catholicbackground, they couldn’t resist thewarm and caring atmosphere createdby the congregation. Once drawn in,Marcelo reports that they actuallybecame leaders in the corps!The Orbes are blessed through

this warm, service-driven ministry.Marcelo is most rewarded when hewitnesses his congregation minister

to others. He says, “They aregreat helpers, not just to oneanother, but to those in thecommunity as well. They arealways ready to assist anyonein need!”

Ideally one day this min-istry will have its own build-ing. They continually praythat God will bless them witha space in which they canworship, work and continueto grow.

Captains Marcelo andMonica Orbe haveworked long hours tonurture and grow

Wisconsin and Upper MichiganDivision’s first Hispanic corpsplant, the Milwaukee South SideLatino, Wis., Corps. For theOrbes, January 1st marked a newbeginning, not only to the yearbut for their ministry as theymoved closer to their corps’community in downtownMilwaukee. They now worshipin the heart of their community, andthe congregation has already grownby nearly 15 percent!The Milwaukee Hispanic ministry

has much to offer and maintains abusy schedule of service and out-reach.This service draws seekers in from

the community, states Marcelo, whotells a story of one family in particu-lar. This family’s participation startedwith ESL and computer classes.Learning a lot while enjoying the

3

plate. Within 18 months, the corpswas free from a large debt load andcommunity outreach was hummingalong, particularly toward neighbor-hood youth with an intentional focuson spiritual things to bridge childrenand particularly teens who enjoy“going down to The Sal” for basket-ball in its heated gym unlike the coldChicago Park District field house.Graham has consulted with theMetropolitan Division’s new com-munity and gym program coordina-tor, Anwar Smith, for fresh ideas.Future plans at the corps call for set-ting up a computer lab for after-school students.“We just keep seeking what God

wants us to do to be successful,” saidGraham. “I tend to be goal drivenand get frustrated when I can’t mea-sure success quantitatively, like if Ididn’t finish everything on my ‘to

do’ list for theday. But, that’swhen Michellereminds meGod’s measureof success isdifferent. Thetime I mayhave spentleading some-one to Christ orcounseling ateen is successin His eyes.”

For Captains Keith andMichelle Graham, with notyet two years under theirbelts as corps officers, it’s

been an intense, challenging and—by God’s grace, wisdom andpower—fruitful experience at theChicago Midway Citadel, Ill., Corps.Two senior soldiers, a junior sol-

dier and an adherent were enrolledearlier this year, and a recruits classcurrently in session hopes to addmore to the ranks soon.Committed to the concept of corps

growth even before the “Come JoinOur Army” initiative was launched,the Grahams’ priority was gettingcorps attendees more active andinvolved in God’s work. Realizingmembership was a bit “top heavy” inage, the Grahams began focusing ongetting younger members involved.Corps people stepped up to the

Corps growth bears fruit

Four soldiers and three adher-ents were enrolled at theChicago North Side AdultRehabilitation Center (ARC),

led by Majors Larry and JeanManzella, this winter. The soon-to-be members stood excitedly in newuniforms as The Soldier’s Covenantwas read aloud. Major GrahamAllan, ARC commander, conductedthe enrollment, challenging the mento get involved in Army outreachand reinforcing their decision tojoin. Flag bearers Captain GaryGugala, ARC trainee, and LarryWiggins, ARC houseman, stoodproudly as the ceremony came to aclose. Afterward, the new enrolleessat down to a steak dinner withMajor Allan, and were given the restof the day off work, a wonderfulconclusion to a very special day.This was the first ARC enrollment

for trainees Captains Gary andDeborah Gugala. Both like their newappointment and enjoy learning theins and outs of working with strug-gling men. Deborah admitted that

upon entering training she had pre-conceived notions about ARC life,but these ideas were quickly aban-doned as she came to know her con-gregation and learn their many,diverse backgrounds. Havinglearned so much about these men,the recent enrollment took on spe-cial significance for Deborah as shewitnessed first hand the depth ofunderstanding they have for thiscommitment. This is not just anoth-er ceremony for them, she states,but the start of new life in Christ.Matthew 5:3 (KJV) says, “Blessed

are the poor in spirit, for theirs is thekingdom of heaven.” Sometimesthis fundamental concept is forgot-ten, but that is not possible for themen living in the ARC reportsDeborah. “When the men presentthemselves at the front door of anARC, everything in their lives is des-titute,” she said. “It’s a unique stateof mind, and one that provides theoptimum perspective of the inade-quacy of our lives without Him andthe necessity of faith.”

Glen Eyrie Conference CenterColorado Springs, ColoradoAugust 8-15, 2009Plan to attend this Christ-centered week of learningand fellowship.See your corps officer today.

National Seminar onEvangelism

Pictured at a recent enrollment are (l-r) Accepted Candidate Daniel Simmons (flagbearer),Captain Keith Graham, new adherent Mattie Williams, new junior soldier Sherry Gooden,new soldiers Loretta Braggs and Tina Norwood, Captain Michelle Graham and AcceptedCandidate Claudia Simmons (flagbearer).

Captain Keith Graham leads a recruits class.

Milwaukee South Side Latino, Wis., youth event.

Captains Marcelo and Monica Orbe with theirchildren Andres and Jennifer

4

by Sharon Waiksnoris

Ministering to the chil-dren, youth and youngadults of our territory isa privilege. It is also a

tremendously challenging role tofill. Recently the divisional youthsecretaries in the Central Territorymet in St. Louis, Mo. Led by MajorsBob and Collette Webster, territorialyouth secretaries, they had theopportunity to learn and sharetogether, plan for the future, be spir-itually refreshed and spend time indedicated prayer for youth ministry.God worked through every ses-

sion, beginning with a Bible studytaught by the Rev. Paul Brunstetterfrom Lexington, Ky. As he wentthrough Scripture on persistentprayer, we saw how God searchesus, tests us and grows us. Personalreflection reminded us of the deepneed for honest and persistentprayer to keep our passion for min-istry burning.Uplifting devotions led by Majors

Marc and Karen Johnson, Captains

James and Melissa Frye and MajorsCornell and Candace Voeller set afocused and motivational tone eachday. The Holy Spirit renewed ourvision as we discussed youth pro-gramming and upcoming territorialyouth and youth leaders’ events.The seminar concluded with a ses-

sion led by territorial leadersCommissioners Barry C. and E. SueSwanson. The territorial commandershared his vision and expectationsfor youth ministry, and an interac-tive discussion followed.Throughout the week God’s Spirit

was obvious, but nowhere was Hispresence felt more than during a sea-son of prayer that reinforced ourknowledge that God is the source ofour strength and wisdom. As ourchildren grow up in a fragmentedculture, we have the responsibility toempower them to be more than con-querors. This can only be achievedby God’s power and prayer. How fit-ting that the meetings began with astudy of prayer and ended with atime of concentrated prayer.

Website connects youth

mission and work of TheSalvation Army. Informationbooths featured opportunitieslike summer employment, childsponsorship and officer-ship. A global bazaaroffered items crafted bySalvationists around theworld to benefit WorldServices/Self-Denial.Each day began with an

early morning Revival!meeting and ended with alate night knee drill[prayer meeting].Spontaneous and Spirit-

led, thesem e e t i n g sserved as aneffective coun-terpart to theweekend’s pro-g r a m m e daspects. Youngadults spenttime deep inprayer and

asked God to showHis will for theirlives. This year’sconference intro-duced a 24-hourprayer room, whichwas facilitated bystudents of theChicago WarCollege. The prayerroom proved popu-lar with young adults

taking continuous prayershifts.Preparing young adults

to return to their corpsfocused on God andmindful of others,Re:Generation could besummed up the wayWilliam Booth lived hislife, in one word—“Others.”

Youth leaders focus on prayerand purpose

Continued from page 1

Re:Generation

During February, the terri-torial youth departmentlaunched a new websiteCentralYouthNetwork.com

in an effort to create an evenstronger connection with the youthof the Central Territory.Majors Bob and Collette

Webster, territorial youth sec-retaries, see it as a focus andhub for young people, and aneffort well in line with theyouth department mission,“To develop young people intolifelong followers of JesusChrist as soldiers in TheSalvation Army.” It alsoserves to encourage youth towin the world for Jesus.This weekly updated web-

site features interactive anduseful elements such asvideos, photos, podcasts,devotionals, worshipresources and information aboutyouth events, including a convenientmethod of event registration. It willgrow and evolve based on the needsof Central Territory youth.One feature, updated weekly, is

called Studio Central. This portionof the site displays the latest andgreatest of Central youth talent.From stories to videos to music, ifCentral youth create it they maysoon find it posted on Studio Centralfor all to enjoy. It provides a won-derful opportunity to be blessed and

encouraged by blossoming talentsand gifts.Another unique attribute of the

site is a weekly message, called 68Words, based on a concept byWilliam Booth and emailed to read-ers by request. These simple and

powerful messages consist of 68words or less and serve as anencouragement, challenge and moti-vation for those who subscribe.Prayer is encouraged through a

link to the Central Connectionprayer calendar, and leaders’resources are available as well.Overall this site is meant to be a

spiritual resource. Youth departmentstaff will add new features and con-tent as Central youth seek interac-tion, conversation and inspirationfrom the Army and one another.

Son Rock Kids CampGospel Light

Crocodile DockGroup Publishing

Gadget’s GarageConcordia Publishing

Studio Go! Game ShowStandard Publishing

Museum@12627WordAction

Camp E.D.G.E.Abingdon Press

VBS savings once againSave up to 25% with corps discounts on these exciting materials and more!

Must be ordered byphone or fax directlyfrom publishers usingvendor account numbers.Account number, samplematerials and orderinginstructions have been mailed to corpsby Resource Connection.

For more information email [email protected] or call 1-800-937-8896

What:A five-day intensive study withcourses accredited through OlivetNazarene University and the opportu-nity to work toward a bachelor’s ormaster’s degree in practical ministries

Who:Salvation Army soldiers, employeesand officers

Where:Olivet Nazarene University,Bourbonnais, Ill.

When:May 12-16August 4-8

Courses offered:CounselingDisciplingSocial workFamily dynamicsSpiritual formationPrinciples of managementYouth and family ministriesPreaching and worshipOrganizational behaviorCommunity relations

Historically armies at warhave required funds tofight. But if wars grewlong, funds dwindled and

altered battle-strategies proved inef-fective, defeat was inevitable.Sometimes, however, outside helpwould come from those whobelieved in the army’s cause andthought their strategies could suc-ceed.Similarly, grants from the Central

Territory’s Fighting Force Fund areavailable to corps, institutions anddivisions for building up their fight-ing forces to wage war against spiri-tual, social, economic and emotionalneeds.Major Joseph Wheeler, territorial

corps mission and adult ministriessecretary, administers the fund root-ed in monies set aside in 2000 aspart of the territorial visioningprocess. The fund’s current nameevolved near the 2007 launch of“Come Join Our Army.”The fund has four purposes—con-

versions, enrollments, discipleshipand leadership development.Proposals must clearly demonstrateintended outcomes based on thesefour purposes and projected impactson attendance and other areas. Upto half of temporary staffing costsconnected to the project may be cov-ered. Funds may not be used forproperty repairs or renovations, andproposals aren’t renewable.Major Wheeler reported grants

totaling over $600,000 have beenissued to 65 units since July 2007.Grant amounts have ranged from afew hundred dollars to severalthousand.

The Evansville, Ind., Corpsbought outfits for “Rejoice,” itsdance evangelism team, to helpincrease the teens’ confidence asthey share the gospel through inter-pretive dance in the corps and divi-sion. Participants learn leadershipand teamwork skills, reportedCaptains Harold and Lynneta Poff,corps officers.The Chicago Lawn, Ill., Corps

held a Dia de Reyes (Kings Day)evangelistic outreach commemorat-ing the magi and their gifts for BabyJesus. A magician presented thegospel to more than 200 partyguests, and each child received agift. One new family began attend-ing worship services, many morebegan coming to corps activities and

two teens accepted Christ, reportedCorps Officers Captains Luis andRaisi Zambrano.Austin, Minn., Corps Officer

Major Marlys Anderson said theirgrant allowed “thinking outside thebox” for creative evangelistic out-

reaches, such as a Mexican fiestawith guest musicians and speakers,a Hawaiian luau/mystery dinner fea-turing an authentic dance troupe, anold fashioned hoe-down, a city-wideOlympic torch run followed by funchallenges between the RedEgyptians and Yellow Israelites anda series of costumed Bible HeroSundays, all of which more thandoubled regular attendance to anaverage of 90 with 10 enrollmentslast year and 10 more this spring.Event follow up has been crucial togrowth. Leadership training anddevelopment to handle continuedgrowth from future outreaches isthe next goal.Last year, the Wisconsin and

Upper Michigan Division com-bined a long-time, child feeding pro-gram in Milwaukee’s poorest areaswith a summer youth mission teamand corps outreach, reported DebraLewis, Milwaukee social servicesdirector. The mission team distrib-uted almost 98,000 lunches, per-formed child evangelism, got toknow families and connected themwith nearby corps, which stagedproductive outreach events.

The fight goes on

The Evansville Corps’ “Rejoice” dance team gained an increased sense of ministry andprofessionalism with their new outfits.

The results of its Dia de Reyes celebration were magical for the Chicago Lawn Corps.

Check out the Salvation Army Continuing Education Program (SACEP)!

For more information, email [email protected], call (847)294-2225or log onto www.usc.salvationarmy.org and click on SACEP.

Want to recharge yourministry?

5

The Austin, Minn., Corps has made inroads in its community with highly creative evangelisticoutreaches.

A summer youth mission team did child evangelism while Milwaukee’s poorest children gota nutritious lunch from the Salvation Army’s “Feed the Kids” program.

6 TheCry ofGraceI prayed we would know what

happened to my dad. I needed toknow the circumstances behindhis death. My brothers had beentrying to contact him since Fridaybut assumed he was just gone forthe weekend. When he didn’t geta return call, my brother wholived closest went to check on dadon Monday. We had no idea howlong he’d been dead.

Even through this tragedy, wesaw God working. On his way tothe morgue on Tuesday, my broth-er spotted dad’s stolen car inDetroit. This led to the arrest ofthe person who’d killed my father.By the time dad was buried laterthat week, we had a full confes-sion through a lie detector test andknew many of the details.

Incredulously, the person whokilled my dad was the brother ofmy best friend from childhood.When I was eight, my friend hadbrought me to sunbeams andintroduced me to The SalvationArmy.

Although my mother was aChristian, she was often sick whileI was growing up and could not goto church. She died of cancer in1986. After her death my fatherbecame a Christian and occasion-ally went to The Salvation Army.There, he met my friend’s mother.They were later married, though itonly lasted for one year. Unknown

by Major Darlene Harvey

Iwas just going through themotions of Easter. I remem-ber thinking I had takenJesus’ death on the cross for

granted. I had treated His gracecarelessly. I prayed God wouldhelp me more deeply realize theprice He had paid for me, that Iwould have a greater understand-ing of His love. Ten years ago Ihad no idea what lay ahead of meor how God would work throughit in my life.

It was a Monday in October. Myhusband, Dave, and I were gettingready to go to officers’ councils.My sister-in-law had come towatch our two boys. We weregoing to run errands, go to the zooand meet up with Dave later. Butwhen we came home from thestore, Dave’s car was in the drive-way. I knew in my heart some-thing was wrong. When he cameout to meet me, I asked him if mydad was okay. In a broken voice,he told me that he was dead. Mydad had been murdered. In shock,I felt like I watched events unfoldfrom somewhere above. It was asif I were in a dream—a nightmare,really.

to us, after the divorce her son vis-ited my dad periodically to ask formoney for drugs. On one of thoseevenings, he became angry. He notonly took my dad’s money and carbut took his life.

A very difficult year followedfor me. I felt responsible for mydad’s death. If it had not been formy involvement with the Army,maybe he wouldn’t have knownthe person who killed him. Oftenthe people whom we servedreminded me of the person who’dkilled my dad. I wanted to start anew chapter in my life, and forthe first—and only—time I thoughtabout resigning as an officer. ButGod always knows what we needand comes at the right time.

That summer, 1999, I had anopportunity to attend the NationalSeminar on Evangelism (NSE) forthe third time. While there Godreminded me of the first time Ihad gone in 1986—after my moth-er’s death. I had been so excited to

Darlene's dad and her son, Matthew.

Majors Darlene and Dave Harvey with produce from the Green Camp, a program of theChicago Kroc Corps Community Center, their present appointment.

Taking part in the Salvation Army presence at the 50th anniversary of D-Day inNormandy, France.

7

Darlene with a council woman at her present ministry, the Chicago Kroc Center.

Darlene and her sons Matthew and Joshua.

learn how to lead someone toChrist, and when I returned homethe first person I shared with wasmy dad. He had accepted Christ.God reminded me that though mydad had lost his earthly life, hehad eternal life—and God hadallowed me to be a part of thatdecision. I came back from NSErenewed in my passion to be anofficer and more strongly commit-ted to my ministry.

That same summer at awomen’s camp meeting when theguest sang about heaven I bawleduncontrollably. Afterward thespeaker asked if I was all right.She could see something was terri-bly wrong. I told her about mydad, and though neither of uscould believe it she said that herdad also had been murdered that

year. The book What’s soAmazing about Grace by PhillipYancey had really helped her. Isoon found myself reading it, andit aided my healing.

God wanted not only to heal thehurt of losing my father, but Hewanted to use this experience tohelp me grow in grace. I think Ihad been tempted to be self-right-eous, to feel good about the deci-sions I’d made. I wanted to takecredit for the good things in mylife rather than looking at them asgifts and grace from God. Withouteven realizing it, I’d developed ajudgmental attitude toward peoplewho had addictions. I feltthey’d made bad choicesand had to live with theconsequences. I did nothave Christ’s compassion.

Although I’d long ago memo-rized Ephesians 2:8-9, these versesbecame more real to me: “For it isby grace you have been saved,through faith—and this not fromyourselves, it is the gift of God.” Ihad a deeper understanding. Oftenwe have a problem acceptingGod’s grace or extending God’sgrace, and many times our prob-lems revolve around these issues.We either cannot forgive ourselvesor accept God’s or someone else’sforgiveness, or we do not forgiveanother person and hang onto bit-terness.

While we were in Green Bay, Ihad an opportunity to attend aprogram at the local prison onrestorative justice which wastaught by one of our corps mem-bers. It gave me a different per-spective, more understanding andcompassion for people who havecommitted crimes.

I thank God I have forgiven theperson who killed my dad. I knowI did not do this in my ownstrength but God’s, as we readabout in Philippians 4:13.

My dad’s life reminds me of theEaster story. He was a loving manwho did not deserve to die a vio-lent death. While he lay dying,what little possessions he hadwere discarded and sold. He wasalone for three days before he wasfound. Through what happened tomy dad, I have a greater under-standing of the price God paid forme. But most importantly, I’mreminded of Jesus’ victory over sinand death. God has given me—andyou—victory over sin and despair.Freedom and victory are possible,simply and only, because of God’sgrace.

Note: For a list of books onforgiveness and healing, visitGet Connected web pages.

Darlene with her brothers and dad.

88

Recognitionbegins withthank you

Premier volunteers

Bread of life

tions, bagel sales, basketballshootouts, hula hoop and other com-petitions—for the Bed & Bread Truckthat provides a hot meal to the hun-gry and homeless. One school dis-trict averaged donations of $11,000for each year.

Big-hearted first-grader SeanBrenneman raised morethan $200 for The SalvationArmy’s Junior Bed & Bread

Program benefitting the Detroit,Mich., area. With the help of hisparents, Sean contacted more than30 family members and friendsabout the program and used pictureshe drew of a child receiving foodand clothing to drive home his mes-sage. Sean also raised money withbottle-returns and other littlemoney-making opportunities hecould find.The Bed & Bread Program run by

The Salvation Army in Detroit haslong been supported by radio stationWOMC-FM (104.3) and its well-known morning show host, DickPurtan. The Junior Bed & BreadProgram, now in its second year, hasprovided elementary, middle andhigh-school students the chance toraise funds or donate food in a num-ber of creative ways—drama produc-

Big heart, small body

PhotocourtesyofJose

Juarez/The

Oakland

Press

Harvey gave many“Good Day”s to SA

Irene Lottchea at work assembling breadpackages.

Pamela Church, family assistance ministrydirector at Norridge Citadel Corps, andher cheerful, bread-packing volunteers.

we asked of them. Without ourlegions of volunteers, we could notdo what we do even with funding.Our volunteers, our donors of

time, support us without expectationof compensation or recognition.However, as National VolunteerWeek approaches (April 27 – May 3)I would encourage you to recognizethe donors of time who support yourcorps, institution or program. Take amoment to say thank you, showyour appreciation and tell your com-munity what your volunteers havedone.You will find that by recognizing

your donors of time, even in thesesmall ways, amazing things willbegin to happen. Even better, recog-nize your volunteers often; don’twait for a certain date or time. Infact, it’s the perfect way to begineach day!So, to those of you who are volun-

teers or soldiers, thank you foreverything you do!

Find ideas for creative ways to recog-nize your volunteers on our GetConnected web pages.

bers, added Captain Connie Shaw,assistant corps officer who, withRebecca Anklam, serves as corpscadet counselor.To earn a Presidential Volunteer

Service Award a young person mustvolunteer in specific areas of servicefor over 100 documented hours in asingle calendar year.

Shona McDermott, 16, andElise Welch, 15, highly activesenior soldiers, corps cadetsand girl guards at the Flint

Beecher, Mich., Corps, each earneda Presidential Volunteer ServiceAward. They earned the awardsthrough their involvement with anEastern Michigan divisional campprogram called “Project Lead” inwhich young people from corpsspend the summer at Echo GroveCamp assisting leaders and staffwho, in turn, encourage and pro-mote good leadership skills in par-ticipants. The two teens also com-pleted required swimming safetyand first aid courses, the “Safe fromHarm” children’s welfare and safetycourse, plus other classes.At the Flint Beecher Corps, the

girls participate in worship meetingsas well as run the sound board andmedia equipment for meetings, andboth have been group leaders forvacation Bible school, reportedMajors Patrick and CarmellaMcPherson, corps officers. The girlsare also future officer fellowship andcommunity care ministries mem-

Five years ago after losing her sonto cancer, Irene had to sell her homeand move to an apartment becauseshe was unable to manage financial-ly. “I was sick, broken hearted anddown. I didn’t know which end wasup and had no family to help me,”Irene explained.In need of food, she came to the

Norridge Citadel pantry. “The nextthing I knew, Jane Berry [then thefamily assistance ministry director]asked if I wanted to help pack breadon Wednesdays,” Irene recalled. “Iwas delighted to serve the Lord inthis way. I went home and cried myeyes out. Not only did I find help formy problems, but I knew there wasa God looking over me.”Irene was honored with a dedicat-

ed volunteer certificate three yearsago by the Norridge Citadel Corps.“As long as my car can move and myeyes don’t fail too much more, I willcontinue to help at The SalvationArmy. Packing bread really savedmy life,” beamed Irene. “My onlyenjoyment left is my Salvation Armytrip on Wednesdays.”

Each week the NorridgeCitadel, Ill., Corps receiveslarge donations of breadfrom a Panera deli and

Dominick’s grocery for its foodpantry. The bread arrives in bulkand volunteers break it down intofamily-size packages.“The kitchen is a happy, busy

place on Wednesday mornings,” saidPamela Church, family assistanceministry director. “The volunteersare very dedicated and obviouslyenjoy each other’s company. When Ifirst met Irene Lottchea, she wasquick to thank me for letting herpack bread. That intrigued me as wewere so thankful for her! So I pulledIrene aside one day to ask her to tellme her story.”

American icon Paul Harvey, whowas promoted to Glory last month,was not only a respected broadcast-er for more than 50 years and the“most listened-to man in America,”he was also a staunch supporterand loyal friend of The SalvationArmy. Harvey was first introducedto the organization as a volunteerserving Thanksgiving dinner at aHarbor Light Center and attendedthe Norridge Citadel, Ill., Corps formore than 15 years. He was pre-sented the “Others” Award in 1989,the William Booth Award in 1990and was recognized at the 1995National Advisory OrganizationsConference (NAOC) inMinneapolis, Minn. Speaking atNAOC about the state of the world,our witness and ministry, hedeclared, “Oh, Salvationists, weneed you. I need you.”

Holding their Presidential VolunteerService Awards are Elise Welch (l) andShona McDermott.

by Rob Bonesteel

There is a rule of thumb infundraising that a donorshould be thanked seventimes for their gift before

they’re asked for another. Thismight seem excessive and time con-suming, but fundraising profession-als strive to meet this standardbecause they know the monetarysupport of donors is vital to theirorganization.In an age where people would

rather give money than time, howmuch more important is it that wethank and recognize our volunteersjust as we thank our financialdonors? Over the past year our terri-tory was blessed with 690,000 vol-unteers who gave us more than 3.3million hours to further TheSalvation Army’s mission. Thatdonation allowed us to extend ourshared budgets by $65.5 million.Yet, it’s not the extension to our bud-gets that is most important. It is theirservice.Our volunteers showed love to the

unloved, fed the hungry, workedwith the imprisoned, tutored chil-dren, provided counsel to our offi-cers, were our spokespeople to theircommunities, swept floors, stockedshelves and raised millions of dol-lars. They filled countless other rolesand needs. They did nearly anything

Haitian talesdes-Negres, Haiti, at the BethelMedical Clinic where Felix is theadministrator and Violet the assis-tant administrator. The clinic, chil-dren’s home and other servicesoffered by The Salvation Army inthis small mountain town are usedby communities throughout theremote, rugged region.Last year the Ezehs rode out three

hurricanes (Fay, Gustav and Hanna)that cut off power, supplies andcommunications. Food and fuel forvehicles, generators and lampsbecame scarce and expensive. Yet inthe midst of the storms, a team fromthe Western Michigan and NorthernIndiana Division continued to deliv-er water filters to Salvation Armyschools.Violet reported mothers have

abandoned babies at the clinic threetimes over the last few months. Onemother asked a woman in the wait-ing room to hold her daughter whileshe went to buy something to eat.After four hours, Felix made a policereport. By the time he returned tothe clinic, a two-year-old boy hadbeen abandoned as well.Fortunately, the girl’s mother had achange of heart, but no one ever

Serving in Haiti for almost thelast decade has brought unex-pected crises but even greaterblessings for Major Violet

Ezeh, a Centralite officer who’sserved in the Caribbean Territory formore than 15 years.With husband, Captain Dr. Felix

Ezeh, and their six-year-old son,Matthew, Violet is serving in Fond-

claimed the very mal-nourished boy.“We named him

Jeremiah Joshua; J.J. forshort. It took twomonths to treat his mal-nutrition,” said Violet.“We’re currently usingMedikamamba, a spe-cial protein-enrichedpeanut butter.”Recently another

baby boy was left by hismother, but familymembers showed uptwo days later explain-ing the mother hadmental problems, andthey didn’t know whereshe’d left him.Antoinise came to the

clinic with her infantnephew, Benji, after histeen mother died. Thefamily was committedto caring for him butbaby formula cost halftheir monthly income. “It just sohappened a friend sent moneyrecently to be used for anything,”said Violet. “If the family could buyhalf the formula, I’d buy the rest.”

2009 Summer Mission Teams announced

ChileSara Moran*Gabriel CarriónEric GortonJustin JohnsonMegan PolsleyAndrés VillatoroRobyn Winters

MoldovaLuis Azuaje*Alexandra CoxBeth DalbergJaclyn DavissonJean EngleBrenna LoganDavid Moran

PhilippinesMeghan Labrecque*Alexandra AndersonJulianna DobneyMelissa HeatwoleDietrich HunterBreann MasseyJamison Taube

Central RedEmily Aukes*Erica GallaherJennifer HeaverJoshua HubbardMike SteinslandKarl SwansonRashawn White

Central YellowDavid Shay*Erick FernandezGlen JansonMelissa PascoeJonathan TamayoNancy Valentin

Clients wait patiently at the busy and popular Bethel Clinic.

Matthew proudly displays his first missing baby tooth. The “toothfairy” couldn’t find the tiny tooth under Matthew’s pillow, so Violetleft a quarter and told Matthew the next morning the tooth fairyhad left the first tooth for his baby book. “Quick thinking, huh?”she asked.

9

EmploymentOpportunityBookkeeper—Republic of the Marshall

Islands, USA Western Territory. Seekingexperienced bookkeeper for a short-termmission opportunity requiring a one-yearcommitment with the possibility to extendservice. Duties include general bookkeepingusing Microsoft Great Plains software;accounts receivable/payable; payroll andtaxes; financial file maintenance; financialclosings. Requires proficiency in MicrosoftExcel or other spreadsheet software, preferbachelor’s degree in accounting, relatedfield or equivalent experience with highschool diploma; excellent organizational andmultitasking skills. Housing, small stipendprovided; must live within Army guidelines(no alcohol, tobacco, drugs). Serve God inthe sunny, always 80-degree MarshallIslands. Wear flip-flops to work! Learn a sec-ond language, experience another culture,teach others your bookkeeping skills.Snorkel, scuba dive, go fishing or boating.Position available immediately to the rightapplicant. Contact: Captain Joel Harmon.Phone: 011-692-625-5958 Email:[email protected]

Wesley Noel, AIDS relief program director,has been on the Bethel clinic staff since1990 and is a good friend of the Ezehs.

Felix and Violet were thrilled to welcome her brother,Major Robert Doliber, Central territorial finance secretary,for a recent visit to Haiti.

Pray for the following young people who will spend their summer on a mission team here at home in the Central Territory and abroad.

Malawi InternsMiguel GarciaEnrique Villatoro

Peru InternsRachel ArenLinda Villatoro

*Team leader

Central BlueErica Johnson*Lindsay HallSteve Rivero2 Team Membersfrom Ghana

2 Team Membersfrom Argentina

Another exceptional volunteer isthe Richard Sorrentino, a senior sol-dier at the Moline Heritage Temple,Illinois, Corps. Richard dedicateshours each week grading lessons,often turning in 200 lessons a week!He has been a Christian since agesix. When asked his reason for vol-unteering he said, “I enjoy helping(incarcerated) men find how theirlives can be beautiful to Christ.”What motivates the volunteers

most is not a number, notes MelodyRosa, territorial Bible correspon-dence director, but the individuallesson they are praying over andgrading at that moment. She contin-ues, “This service is more than grad-ing papers; it is an opportunity tointroduce the One who can givepeace and pardon to all.”Currently 2,000 lessons are graded

each month, and correctional ser-vices could still use some assistance,particularly grading Spanish lessons.Should this pique your interest, con-tact Melody Rosa for further infor-mation.

10

Barnabas Pen Pal Program

viduals, who have little connectionwith the outside world, on everydayhappenings and current events.This impactful opportunity is not

a big commitment. Write once amonth, and Marty will route yourletter through her office to protectyour identity. Some volunteers even

prefer an alias name totheir own.If you are interested,please contact MajorM a r t y H u d s o n([email protected]),and she will provideyou with further infor-mation, including aninformation guide andapplication form.Once accepted, you’rematched with aninmate and given thechance to bring lightinto the life of some-one who has very littleoccasion left to hope.

Major Marty Hudson incorrectional services atterritorial headquartersis looking for volun-

teers to encourage prisoners bybecoming a pen pal.Think of how you can share God’s

love as you update incarcerated indi-

“Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners…”Hebrews 13:3 (NIV)

Dedication in Biblecorrespondence

TheSalvation Armyin Muncie, Ind., ishaving an impacton people in

prison and far beyondthose walls.Two years ago, Majors

Douglas and Sandra Rick,Muncie corps officers,received a letter from anew program called“Inside-out Dads” whichteaches parenting skills toincarcerated fathers at thePendleton, Ind., prison.The program not onlyhelps men be betterfathers, it helps children togrow up knowing they’restill loved.In the program’s first

level, fathers learn how they can stillhave relationships with their chil-dren and positively influence theirlives from behind bars. Events areheld throughout the year to reunitechildren with their fathers for anafternoon.When Inside-out Dads Director

Karlene Parks sent letters to morethan 125 organizations requestingassistance with its first Christmasparty for 50 children, the Ricks werethe only responders. They allocatedtoy shop items for the prisoners toselect, wrap and attach a card.The Ricks also assist at all

father/child events but leave when-ever gifts are distributed becausethey want the children to believe thepresents are truly from their fathers.This has endeared the majors to pris-oners and helped build bridges of

trust which has led to many rela-tionships as Doug ministers thereeach week (a two-hour roundtrip).He teaches 17 courses and distrib-utes Indiana Salvation Army contactinformation for families if they needassistance or a church home. He’salso helped get men into adult reha-bilitation centers or harbor light pro-grams upon their release.Last year the Ricks received

$1,000 toward the purchase ofChristmas toys for 155 prisoners’children. Amazingly, the money wasraised by the fathers themselvesthrough creative fundraisers at thehighly supportive prison, such as aKentucky Fried Chicken night!Warden Tom Hanlon is now workingwith the Ricks, Karlene Parks andthe Indiana Division to expand theprogram to other state prisons.

Impact beyond the walls

Richard Sorrentino is a senior soldier atthe Moline Heritage Temple, Ill., Corpsand dutiful Bible lesson grader.

Jeanne Parquette of the Oakbrook Terrace,Ill., Corps grades around 100 Bible lessonseach month.

Tom Hanlon (1), Pendleton prison warden, and MajorDoug Ricks, Muncie corps officer.

May 3, 2009

Many are aware that TheSalvation Army offersfree Bible study lessonsto incarcerated individ-

uals. Here in the Central Territory,this wonderful effort is overseen bycorrectional services. Not long agoan edition of the CentralConnection ran a story featuring theneed for Bible correspondence les-son graders, and shortly thereaftermany exceptional volunteersemerged, some of whom are high-lighted today.Geraldine (Jeri) Moynihan of the

Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., Corpsgrades Bible correspondence lessonsfaithfully each month. She has astrong relationship with the Lordand believes that the Bible is the keyto mature Christianity. She lives outthat conviction in her volunteerwork with correctional services.Jeanne M. Parquette of the

Oakbrook Terrace, Ill., Corpsbecame a Christian at 13 and taughtfor many years in a local Christianschool. Jeanne always enjoyed help-ing others, and, upon learning of cor-respondence courses, felt compelledto use her God-given teaching abili-ty to serve Him and others. She nowgrades around 100 Bible correspon-dence lessons every month!

TerritorialPrayerCalendar

1 Youth councils being held in four divi-sions this weekend

2 The Chicago Lawn, Ill., Corps

3 Ministries to the incarcerated on thisCorrectional Services Sunday

4 Regional music schools in theWestern Michigan and NorthernIndiana Division

5 The Austin, Minn., Corps

6 The Territorial Business Seminar

7 Local, state and federal governmentson this National Day of Prayer

8 The Chicago Midway, Ill., Corps

9 Dr. Captain Felix and Major VioletEzeh serving in Haiti

10 God’s hands on the lives of womenon this Mother’s Day

11 A greater awareness of TheSalvation Army throughout thenation

12 Next month’s Power Point and com-missioning weekend

13 The Commissioners’ Conference inAlexandria, Va.

14 The Flint Beecher, Mich., Corps

15 Women’s ministries camps beingheld in five divisions this weekend

16 Men’s ministries camps in theEastern Michigan and Northern divi-sions this weekend

17 The Davenport River Valley, Iowa,Adult Rehabilitation Center

18 Youth ministries during national girlguard, sunbeam and adventurecorps week

19 The Salvation Army ContinuingEducation Program this week

20 The Salvation Army in Madison, Ind.

21 Cadets preparing for summerassignments

22 The Milwaukee South Side Latino,Wis., Corps plant

23 Safety for people traveling on thisMemorial Day weekend

24 Worshipers to feel God’s love andcomfort today

25 Those who are grieving

26 The Chicago, Ill., North Side AdultRehabilitation Center

27 The Chicago Staff Band’s ministryon their Scandinavia and Germanytour

28 Cadets and their families preparingfor their first officer appointments

29 The “Come Join Our Army” initiative

30 Summer camp staffs in everydivision

31 Unity, revival and intercession forour world on this Global Day ofPrayer

MAY 2009

PRAY FOR:

11

included a hot meal, clothes mend-ing, foot care, haircuts, flu shots,medical tests, legal advice, librarycards, mental health screenings andcounseling, vision testing and taxassistance.Although the line of those

patiently waiting for assistancespilled beyond the walls of thearena and into the single-digitmorning air outside, the physicaland emotional warmth of the daywas inescapable. One middle-agedwoman proudly made her waythrough the crowded arena, obvi-ously pleased with the haircut she’djust received by an on-site profes-

Heeding the homelessby Roger Snider

Connecting homeless per-sons with services thatmost of us take for grant-ed, the Grand Rapids Area

Coalition to End Homelessnesssponsored the third-annual ProjectHomelessness Connect event at theVan Andel Arena in Grand Rapids,Mich.The Salvation Army Booth Family

Services, together with over 70other local housing and serviceagencies and more than 300 volun-teers, offered assistance to morethan 800 persons. These services

sional stylist. She was on her way toa dental screening. Her last stopincluded an opportunity to secureher first library card.“We are obviously pleased that

today so many persons in need ofservices were able to access these ina warm, safe and supportive envi-ronment. But the fact remains thattoo many of these same individualswill leave the arena, walk out intothe cold and back into a life ofhomelessness. Ultimately, it is ourchallenge to promote ending home-lessness,” said Betty Zylstra, BoothFamily Services director and one ofthe planners for the event.

Compelling commitmentAward for Excellence in SocialWork. It is an esteemed honor, andyet, humbly, she credits thosearound her; a wonderful, support-ive family, knowledgeable managerand dedicated staff.Envoy Rebecca Simmons, Joyce’s

manager and nominator, said,“Joyce is the hardest worker we’veever known. She has incredibletime management skills, and pro-duces three times that of a typicalemployee.”No doubt this is true, as her list of

responsibilities seems overwhelm-ing. She provides oversight for ashelter for abused and neglectedchildren, a safe haven for mentallyill adults, a scattered site transition-al housing program and two seniorlow-income housing projects. Sheis the divisional Safe From Harmtrainer, is responsible for allHousing and Urban Development(HUD) funded programs in the divi-sion, and is on the board of a localcoalition for financial stability oflow income adults, having recentlybeen given the responsibility ofmanaging an IRS grant that helpslow income individuals during taxseason. And the list goes on!

Joyce Schau does it all; she isthe mother of three, wife, vol-unteer and dedicated, excep-tionally loyal employee of TheSalvation Army. As the assistant

divisional social services director inthe Kansas and Western MissouriDivision, Joyce works constantlyand with heart. Recently her hardwork and devotion was acknowl-edged as she received a welldeserved accolade, the National

In all of this, Joyce has a servant’sheart. Her children laugh becauseshe can’t attend a social functionwithout washing the dishes or serv-ing refreshments. This attitude anddesire to work behind the scenesbode well in the workplace, whereher ultimate function is to supportthose on the field. As a behind-the-scenes person, it’s not every daythat those around her have theopportunity to see the impact shemakes. It’s an honor, perhaps, thatis only an inkling of the recognitionshe deserves as she pursues herpassions in life as a mother, wifeand a Salvation Army employee.

12

Promoted toGlory

Join us in remembering

Kidslearn tocare

ple,” exclaimed Major ClaireGrainger who, with her husband,Norman, are the Springfield, Mo.,corps officers. “The 20 young people

involved in Jr. CCM enjoythe opportunity to notonly visit but assist inpacking the seasonalmaterials for the nursinghomes. They’ve alsohelped sort food for ourfood pantry and feeding

programs,” Claire continued.The Graingers’ target for 2009 is

to have corps young people visit asenior/disabled high-rise residenceon a monthly basis, which will beespecially encouraging to an adher-ent who’s a shut-in there. Themonthly visits include a concert.“The children bring an excitement

with them that is contagious andgreatly enhances our ministry in thisarea,” concluded Claire.

Year-round sunshineCorps Officers Majors Alberto and

Felicia Rapley, Evanston, Ill., Corps,reported community care is support-ed by youth of all ages at their corps.

“We have five teenagerswho are regular helpersthroughout the year, andthe sunbeams help season-ally, such as Christmasand Easter,” said Felicia.The teens participate in

visitations to nursinghomes, prepare food bas-kets for distribution andperform random acts ofkindness in the neighbor-hood, such as helping folksat supermarkets and dis-tributing The War Cry.The teens are also veryhelpful with going up longflights of apartment stairswhen meals or other itemsneed to be delivered toshut-ins!

Just as children can learn theconcepts of when and how tosay “please” and “thankyou,” they can learn to carefor others.

Junior community care min-istries (Jr. CCM) teaches youth age6-14 how to show care every day increative ways through single acts ofkindness or group efforts in provid-ing practical service to individuals,the corps or community. Jr. CCMpromotes good citizenship and com-passionate service performed in thespirit of Christ.

A dozen rosesCorps Officers

Captains Enrique andNancy Azuaje arepleased to report theCicero Templo Laramie,Ill., Corps has 12 cheer-ful, very active Jr. CCM members onits list.“CCM is an important ministry,

and we are so grateful to the Lordfor giving our youth the love andpassion to be such an active part ofthis ministry,” said Nancy. On once-a-month visits to nursing homes, theJr. CCM members sing, play tam-bourines and help distribute TheWar Cry and gifts to residents.For occasions like Thanksgiving,

Christmas and Easter, the childrenalso make their own craft gifts for dis-tribution.

Excitement in serving“It’s so exciting to see spiritual gift-

edness being lived out in young peo-

Around the TerritoryCHICAGO, ILL.—On a January daymarking the heaviest snow onrecord for that date in Chicago his-tory, the grand opening of thenewest family thrift store operatedby the Chicago Central AdultRehabilitation Center (ARC)brought in $53,000 in total sales,reported Majors Mark and SusanAnderson, ARC administrators.The store is located in DownersGrove, a solidly middle-class south-western suburb. Over the past cou-ple of years, some ARCs in the ter-ritory have opened stores in moreaffluent areas in response to families struggling with local and national economies. Pictured(l-r) are Captain Loreen Henderson, Roger Williams and Captain Jerry Henderson, who toted

signboards in a time-honored,Chicago-area tradition forannouncing new businesses!

KALAMAZOO, MICH.—TheKalamazoo Corps accepted a$58,813 donation to its emer-gency utility fund from ChristFollowers for Change, a collabo-ration of local churches dedicat-ed to bringing social change inthe Kalamazoo area andthroughout the world. Pictured(l-r) are Pastors Jeff Porte andJoel Brooks representing ChristFollowers for Change; Captain

Tom McComb, Kalamazoo corps officer, and Dennis Berkebile, advisory board chairman.

DES MOINES, IOWA—The Salvation Army receivedwelcome assistance for needy families as two semi-trailers from Feed The Children, an internationalChristian relief organization, delivered more than 900boxes of non-perishable food, 900 boxes of personalitems and two pallets of bottled water. Fifteen volun-teers from Concord Hospitality, a local hotel manage-ment company, came to the Des Moines Temple Corpsto help unload the trucks and distribute items to pre-selected food-pantry clients. (Individuals and corpora-tions such as Concord sponsor Feed The Childrendonations and shipments. Last year, Feed The Childrenshipped 135 million pounds of food and essentials tochildren and families in all 50 states and 32 countries.)Pictured is Abid Talic, Concord Hospitality, stackingboxes for wheeling into the corps.

In honor of those who have gone before us, theCentral Territory will hold its traditional memorialservice in The Salvation Army section of Glen OakCemetery on Memorial Day weekend.

Sunday, May 24th3:00 p.m.Glen Oak Cemetery4301 W. Roosevelt Rd.Hillside, IL 60162(708) 344-5600

Mrs. Colonel Elsie L. FranzenMrs. Co l -

o n e l E l s i eFranzen waspromoted toGlory onFebruary 2,2009. She hadan unwaveringfaith in theLord for allher 98 years.Born to Salvation Army officers

who pioneered the Army on the eastcoast, Elsie had a deep-seated faithand love for the Army early on.Following high school, displayingindependence and courage, Elsiepicked up and moved west toChicago before entering the Collegefor Officer Training in 1934.After commissioning in 1935,

Elsie met and married Captain StigFranzen, and their marriage wasblessed with two lovely daughters.The Franzens held various corps anddivisional appointments in theCentral Territory, and moved toMinnesota in retirement.Elsie is remembered and sorely

missed for her warm smile, delight-ful music ministry and creative giftsof embroidery, beadwork and woodcarving. Her life and ministry weremarked by an appreciation for herScandinavian heritage.Mrs. Colonel Franzen is survived

by her daughters, Lenore and Ellen;five grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Her husband, Stig,was promoted to Glory in 2006.

Lt. Colonel Darlene WinklerLt. Colonel

D a r l e n eWinkler waspromoted toGlory onJanuary 6,2009. Shewas 67 yearsold and willbe greatlymissed forher pleasant personality and deeplyspiritual relationship with the Lord.Born in Bloomington, Ill., to John

and Roberta Dorrell, Anna Darlenebegan attending the Army at 10years old. Not long after, she wassaved during a Sunday school deci-sion service. Clearly a profoundmoment in her life, Darlene said,“…children can be saved…I amproof of this…”She answered her call to officership

in later years, and met her soon-to-behusband, Captain Harold Winkler atthe College for Officer Training.After marriage, Darlene and Haroldheld various appointments acrossIndiana followed by divisional andterritorial appointments. During thistime they raised two children.Their ministry was highlighted

with travel: a trip to Brazil, report-ing on overseas activities for theWestern Michigan and NorthernIndiana Division, and an interna-tional congress held in London,England. After retirement, Darlenestill ministered and evangelized.She is survived by her beloved hus-

band, Harold; two children, CaptainSharon (George) Gibbons andCaptain James (Deborah) Winkler,and four sisters.