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)

Volume 44, Number 12 December 2014 Have we seen the light?

by General André Cox n the world these two com - How easy it can be to pursue our today we often mandments,” own selfish pleasures while ignoring Isee people (Matthew 22:37- the plight of more than a quarter of choosing to 40 NIV ). the world’s population. We hear there are about 2.4 billion people ignore the true At a time of living on less than $2 U.S. per day meaning of the year character - with another 1.1 million or so Christmas message. ized too often by ful message of Christmas through a forced to live on less than $1 a day. For many it is a excess and over- kind and selfless gesture. If you have ever tried to live on that very busy time of indulgence by I do sometimes wonder how histo - amount of money, you will know the year, with so those in the ry will judge our generation. Most of what a monumental struggle it is. many activities to world fortunate us receive a better education than The reality is, of course, that a very rush between. to have so much, our forebears and have far more significant proportion of the world’s Countless demands we have an wealth and resources than at any population have to because, through and pressures seem opportunity to time in human history. Yet the pain, no fault of their own, they have lim - to be placed upon reflect on greater suffering and deprivation of so many ited choices and opportunities. us, with a myriad values and to people continue to grow unchecked. of preparations to think of those We cannot remain unmoved or If parochial and selfish ambitions make. Within self- who cannot even indifferent, and rightly are remind - continue to be relentlessly pursued, gratifying material - dream of the ed: “We may be the only means our generation will be remembered istic and consumer-driven societies many material things many of us that God has of touching people not for any significant achievements many, sadly, will be caught on the take for granted. around us with his love, of relating but instead for greed. Let us never arduous treadmill of Christmas par - to them his Word, of enabling them The 17th-century English poet forget, therefore, that Christmas is ties, shopping and concerts. to discover his saving grace” (taken and cleric, John Donne, famously far more than bright lights, parties, from Jesus Now by Leslie Brandt). Why, though, should that concern and correctly noted: “No man is an shopping and concerts! That is what Christ wants to do in us? When asked which the greatest island, entire of itself; every man is More than 2,000 years ago, angels and through you and me. In grasp - commandment was, Jesus replied, a piece of the continent, a part of proclaimed the birth of a Saviour ing that, we will approach the heart “‘Love the Lord your God with all the main. Any man’s death dimin - who would bring great joy for all of what this Christmas celebration your heart and with all your soul ishes me, because I am involved in the world. The reality was, of is really all about. In realizing this and with all your mind.’ This is the mankind, and therefore never send course, that when Jesus came, there deeper meaning, we are freed from first and greatest commandment. to know for whom the bell tolls; it was no room in the inn. As a result, focusing on our own wants and lib - And the second is like it: ‘Love tolls for thee” (Meditation #17 from the Saviour of the world was born erated to open our hearts to others your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Devotions Upon Emergent in most humble surroundings. Law and the Prophets hang on who need to experience the beauti - Occasions ). Continued on page 6

Join Salvationists worldwide in reading the Bible

by Major Curtiss Hartley Just as countless Salvationists join me, said Commissioner Paul R. scripture each week. Receiving an challenge from General around the globe joined in Seiler, Central territorial commander. age-appropriate Bible, children who André Cox gives every Boundless…The Whole World According to Lt. Colonel Paul participate will have one weekly ASalvationist in the Central Praying earlier this year, it is hoped Smith, territorial secretary for pro - reading and a simple activity based Territory the opportunity to they will participate in gram, the Bible reading challenge is on the same chapters being read by join with the whole Army world in Boundless…The Whole World intended to be easy and flexible to fit adults. A printed study booklet out - reading through the New Testament Reading, which begins January 5, all needs. Boundless….The Whole lining the reading plan will be avail - in 2015. Salvationists who sign up 2015. World Reading may be used as an able in English, Spanish, Korean, and commit to the weekly readings “We pray this initiative generates individual Bible reading program or French and Portuguese. Additional not only will receive a reading sched - excitement and enthusiasm across in small groups in corps or centers. commentaries and expanded ule and study questions but also a the territory for reading God’s Word. resources will be available online free English or Spanish Bible. In order for the New Testament to through a dedicated website. Since I’m going to participate in the Bible be read from beginning to end, the reading challenge and hope you’ll congregations have different needs, program will cover five chapters of they may also utilize additional local resources that would work best for their situations. The Bible for participants in the Central Territory will be a gift from Territorial Headquarters. “We hope Salvationists will take their Bible to Sunday morning meetings and Bible

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Y M R A N O I T A V L A S E H T 2 Christmas wrappings

by Lt. Colonel Richard Amick Secretary for Business Administration

cartoon in the newspaper Christmas. We can become so at Christmas a few years involved in activities, purchasing pre - Aago depicted a lady wrap - sents, kettles, sending cards, kettles, he gave His one and only Son, that ping a gift. In the first cell planning festivities, kettles, toy shop, stable, straw and animals. Perhaps it whoever believes in Him shall not she placed the box carefully on the kettles, clothing and food distribu - perish but have eternal life.” John paper. In the second, she folded tion—did I mention kettles?—that the was so the less fortunate and neglect - ed could feel a kinship with Him. 3:16 (NIV). So many people are attractive paper around the box, and greatest Christmas gift, JESUS, is left caught up in the wrappings of in the third, she tied an elaborate out of our thoughts. This is the first year my wife and I Christmas. Tragically, they do not bow. In the fourth, she held the Have you considered the wrap - celebrate Christmas as grandparents. know or they neglect the holiday’s wrapped box aloft with pride, while pings in which God presented His Watching our granddaughter, Avery, significance. They celebrate and the gift sat on the table! No caption gift, His Son, to the world? They smile and laugh lights up the room live by a calendar that marks time was needed. Even a child could see were simple, indeed. While the best and brings us joy. We don’t care by Jesus’ birth, yet do not know what had gone wrong. She was so room in the inn had been secured by about the gifts around the tree, and Him. What about your Christmas engrossed in the wrappings, she’d those possessing the wrappings of the wrappings of life fade. We rejoice wrappings? Have you discovered overlooked the gift! power, prestige and wealth, God in the gift of life. God’s gift or are you simply caught It seems all too common at chose the common wrappings of a “For God so loved the world that up in the wrappings?

Boundless reading Continued from page 1 Strissels saluted for service

studies at their corps and make it It’s hoped as this wave of Bible personal by writing in it insights they reading sweeps across the Army hear during worship service, Bible world throughout our 150th study or personal reflection,” said the anniversary year that God will territorial commander. speak to us individually and cor - The territorial corps mission and porately. adult ministries department, led by Sign up online at salarmycentral.org Major Carol Wurtz, will give logistical today or clip out and send in the support to the Bible reading challenge. coupon below.

General André Cox presents retirement certificates to Colonels Dennis and Sharon Strissel. Also, pictured their daughter, Sherry Blees, and son, Captain Scott Strissel, and Major Roger Ross (flagbearer). by Captain Scott Strissel appointed to the Southern Africa Yes, I want to join other Salvationists in the Boundless…The Whole he phrase “they fought the Territory. They served on the Island World Reading International Bible Reading Challenge. good fight” epitomizes the of St. Helena, one of the most remote appointments in the world, and then I commit to reading through the New Testament in 2015. Tservice of Colonels Dennis and Sharon Strissel. In their in Krugersdorp and Cape Town. Please sign me up and send my free Bible, ☐ English ☐ Spanish, more than 46 years of officership, After being transferred back to the the reading schedule and study questions to: they have served the Lord around Central, they served at three more the world, touching lives and reach - corps but primarily at divisional Name ______ing souls for God’s Kingdom. headquarters and led both the This fall at the “Dream” Congress Indiana and Midland divisions. Address ______in Detroit, General André Cox pre - Subsequently, they were the territori - sented the Strissels their official al leaders in the Ghana Territory and, ______retirement certificates and offered as such, had the honor of participat - his gratitude both as a personal ing in the High Council in 2011. Corps ______friend and longtime colleague. Returning to the States, they led the Dennis and Sharon each entered Eastern Michigan Division, the appointments from which they retire. Email ______training as single cadets and were com - missioned in 1974 with the “Followers Though their list of appointments Send to: Major Carol Wurtz, Corps Mission and Adult Ministries Department, of Christ” session. After separate is impressive, the Strissels are known The Salvation Army, 10 W. Algonquin Rd., Des Plaines, Ill. 60016 appointments as assistant corps offi - for their servant leadership and cers in Nebraska, they were married investing themselves in the lives of Fax: 847/ 294-2114 Email:[email protected] and held two more appointments in others. The Salvation Army is the Western Division before being better because of them.

Central Get Connection Connected! THE SALVATION ARMY 10 W. Algonquin Road • Des Plaines, Illinois 60016 Check out our complementary material on the web. 847-294-2000 salarmycentral.org WILLIAM AND CATHERINE BOOTH Founder For late breaking news, Resources/Links ANDRÉ COX General Virtual Angel Tree Wichita website COMMISSIONER PAUL R. SEILER Johnson Controls website Territorial Commander visit our website! MedAssets website DOUGLAS M cDANIEL Executive Director of Development RedKettleReason.org ELIZABETH KINZIE Editorial Director Media ANNE URBAN Editor/Writer Log on to salarmycentral.org Excerpt from Cultural Awareness Week video JACQUELYN BENTSON Angel Tree promotional video Communications Specialist Women’s Ministries Leaders Conference BRITTANY CHINN Circulation Manager Web exclusives KENNETH ROMIN Graphic Design and Production Web Exclusives VISIT OUR WEBSITE— www.salarmycentral.org How to promote #RedKettleReason at your corps 1-800-SALARMY Cultural Awareness Week resources Learn more about teaming up with MedAssets 3 Detroit’s own Santa Virtually endless Angels and Mrs. Claus

n Christmas Eve morning Mike and OGerri Buckles rise early to meet with a jaunty crew of friends and family outside of the Harbor Light in Detroit, Mich. Santa hats donned, they arrive with 550 bags full of warm clothes, toys, toiletries and food, which they’ve crammed into two trucks and an SUV. The trucks join up with the Bed and Majors Glen and Carole Caddy, Wichita, Kan., city commander and officer for program devel - Bread Club® program to serve opment, and Brian Carroll with Koch employees and beneficiaries of the Angel Tree program. the hungry and homeless. Along the route as they give ore companies than ever information (previously uploaded) out the bags, they see familiar in Wichita, Kan., and is easily filtered by age, gender and faces. Near fading Hotel Yorba, a deaf Christmas Eve morning in the MKansas City, Mo., are sup - gift-type. So, with just a few clicks man thanks them by raising his hands Buckles’ home has started this way porting The Salvation employees can select their Angel skyward and bringing them down for almost 20 years. Now empty Army’s virtual Angel Tree program Tree recipient or make a donation over his heart. In another part of nesters, they began this tradition thanks to Koch Industries, which payable by credit card. town, a small boy asks Mike, “Are you when their children were teenagers. invested time and resources to create Within minutes of making a an online system to inventory, desig - Santa Claus?” while well-mannered “Vincent, our oldest who was 16 selection, employees receive an girls, who’ve waited patiently, trudge nate and donate gifts for children at email summarizing gift details, due at the time, said he wanted to go Christmas. home with their bags like soldiers. where the homeless people are at date and drop-off location. The The route ends at a neighborhood Christmas,” Gerri recalled. “We The virtual Angel Tree system email also includes an angel tag to warming center, where the final bags were members of the Bed and enables employees to access a regis - cut out and turn in with the gift. are distributed or placed on a Bread Club®, so we started riding tration form through their company’s Last year in these two cities 82 Salvation Army truck to be distrib - along on the truck.” intranet, which is tailored to their companies and two universities organization. All of the beneficiary uted on Christmas morning. After a After volunteering a few years, participated, and 3,347 group of men raise their hot choco - the Buckles saw there was a greater gifts were distributed. late in a merry salute, the Buckles need, so they brought hats and In Kansas City, Mo., 12 crew heads home cold, bone-tired gloves and eventually came up with new companies joined and grateful. a list long enough to fill in because of the easy a bag for each person. process. Now the distribution The idea originated is a year-long journey, with Koch Industries, which starts by collect - which had been taking ing duffel bags and over 1,000 angel tags backpacks. Gerri has every year for their arranged for compa - employees but wanted nies, some as far as more. Immediately Chicago, to donate after implementing the goods. She also emails new system the compa - friends and family who ny saw an increase in collect items all year. participation. December is a flurry of buying, collecting, orga - nizing and bagging. Mike and Gerri Buckles (far right) recruit friends and family to volunteer with them every year. Refuel: a gathering for youth leaders A healthy dose of delight February 10-13, 2015 Wonderland Camp & Conference Center his month employees from MedAssets, a health care per - Featuring Jim Burns, President of HomeWord Ministries Tformance improvement com - pany, will once again con - verge on 17 area senior care homes to share gifts and Christmas cheer with over 1,400 people. They’re vol - unteering with the Cape Girardeau, Mo., Corps which supplies War Cry magazines and small gifts for the MedAssets employees to distribute. Along with additional gifts donated by MedAsset employees, the teams distribute colorful works of art made by area elementary school students, handwritten Christmas cards, and a gift basket for the home to share or use as a prize. “It was a day full of joy and tears,” recalled Juli Cook, MedAssets V.P. client executive, who organizes the MedAssets employees Angela Freeman and event and has joined the local Kelly Cargle with a senior home resident Salvation Army advisory board. During the corps’ awards dinner this Corps, not just at Christmas but year, Juli was presented with the year-round. Christmas Star Award. “As a result of working with MedAssets grants each of its MedAssets, we’ve had more expo - Eligible delegates: all paid and volunteer corps youth leaders, divisional employees 40 hours a year toward sure in the community and more youth secretaries, divisional camp staff and corps officers “heart and soul days,” which, in turn, people interested in The Salvation has resulted in over a decade of vol - Army,” said Corps Officer Captain Cost: $100 per leader Register online www.centralyouthnetwork.com unteering with the Cape Girardeau Ronnie Amick. Don’t miss out on the fun, fellowship and inspiration! 4 Women get fit with new ideas and initiatives

by Major Lesa Davis omen’s ministries leaders and poten - Wtial leaders met at Camp Wonderland this fall to “Get Fit” in mind, body and soul. Welcoming the 451 con - ference delegates, Colonel Dorothy Smith, territorial women’s ministries secretary, urged them to be refreshed and to explore creative ways to minister in their local settings. The opening session’s aerobic flash mob-style presentation of “You’re an overcomer” set the tone for an energetic weekend. Three “girlfriends” (Major Barbara Carroll, A/Captain Dana Cook and Lt. Marisa McCluer) from the Kansas and Western Missouri Division added to the fun and challenged delegates in their quest to get fit. Colonel Smith reminded delegates the confer - ence was designed to go beyond the cultural view of fitness. “We are not here for a makeover,” she said. “We are here to be trans - formed by Jesus Christ.” The Halau Hula Ka Lei O Haku (“The Lei of the Lord”) hula group from the Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division brought a graceful, tropical feel to united meetings through traditional Hawaiian songs and contemporary praise music. Worship also was enhanced by a praise team led by Cadet Heidi Strand and supported by an all- woman praise band. The territorial drama group, Bill Booth Theater Company, made several appear - ances adding their unique contribu - tion to united sessions. Mindy Caliguire, founder of Soul Care (a spiritual formation min - istry), helped delegates zero in on fitness of mind, body and soul in three dynamic teaching sessions. “The mind follows what the will decides. Learn to set your mind on tions, Mindy encouraged delegates women seeking God,” she urged. With practical to take care of their bodies as well. renewal, while oth - examples and challenging illustra - In her final session, she reminded ers prayed indi - delegates God is always pre - vidually and in sent and invit - groups around ing them into the chapel. a deeper rela - tionship with In addition to Himself. Her united meetings, invitation to delegates had women as they dozens of other entered a time activities to of commitment choose from dur - and prayer was ing the confer - simply to be ence. Interactive open and let God activities included do His transform - chick flicks, fitness ing work. Many options like chose to do just Zumba and a that. The daily walking altar was workout, geo - lined caching, board again and and video again games, and with crafting. ava de ilable dicat o n f ew f ere and De th e ed ple i an dea d leg pr ir ega ut i s’mo res r d des wom ay h ate s an li bi eart tes a B fo er t zed ign u d bli s ro var r al en’s to m we roo m to a cl s as ad ed cal t by he ing w i ou t, wh an et tak e re way- soc cr c -b arfe, t wom ir w y m onv many. o d ol af lend i (r also o m nvit of ga wh i m in i st arg e C al tin e manho to st y er s in pu a is af tes en l More li o ke c me ed an th e g, tri istr ed le was fe é le t om c rpo ati on, azin g. le le e explo Con d es c th li a dia cof fee k h an a t n ies rockp a st age a m f o araoke od. h acks sin si campf e th e o ders n tha fu an ir d is t er explo ide nec t a in r 20 such eati de g) nd j c s re ivin a A . w us ds- ion n l om ctiv h i as m le an (t dr a t ol exp o ra t s dif 40 tl al t ir ng lk i o f ga p prin i invit re g er munity p a in d d e isn ni co f e n sh ro i th e or s) , fe tie en t o tu lo w w ks. of t- sim sin g str e in ex vi f ops, re s sh ee re ork t jou a ki g, d cre fe s. ed fait . de d sp hi l y, t a u nt s - i k ng “ o re lif Li topic r a r We a bits r irit en c $ at shop ts spi del a id. h a d and nal d h s k 50 , e ve n . a ive ev i a d i Pi u me an m c ua ndw do as nd ri - lle are ,0 pl a Sh e pcy in h e ev s de n e - a cu d l lo 0 ze el prog in s ng Mi nt a e te g. su s e e 0 h ma ce m ti p e p r p o s - n n m e r el ori w esto e ng lling ch w - In ri r ed f est th on a s t a je ep ara f ra ,” p e c f a r as p or of ng or e n ed c h am m a str i - ro t de a sa t n ck th t h n dit h th m r ann o , p of i R ved on on e in G id e at w n le f m e ed pr r on or s eha b alt me a o u g s i hi - p t C P , i f ion on th ct ou n ayer h r to e ng s e , ro apua a th it h fo r or to p c e r i d s n e c f ’s h e s opu ca vi un r i de . a n a i o Holy $ s nc par oug h t c l ex n n 3 a t d i m o 50 l ed D l wa tat pa sc d :10 ds ed ed a e to h Ne h l w ile Go ur t di ar 0 . rib fit i av r ion an tal lk b of or fo t -2 ou . an v Spirit by se i w i n d ng e o C i e i St t d 3). a r k s n , e e t f t over t hr t Gu Cen i h - s e s ocke d a d th g as a o h t th t p s t x e s h th n he “O h e is w a pur mo cit e iri ked ,” of e e i ‘b w e nd n t,” e an t at A u er s - “b s ing c wee ken ea. ell od week c ne t du Se h dul er c r on ha d h th e to a ha o e h y’ e r y n a d as c Co pe f t Maj lle vi e t i er l ank d om s c y us a pr a imp es. end h c asp c rs l t lt ng m - o h e h e u m i pre h or m f d o s u C e m r wh ed it Al pro / r e i c C ac r Sel a and om a s th r in and c h c s to nd w c h t on t h t o bo ident o t e divid r s - f h On i of if m l ist th - t a r s g l e D f c was h uti a t aise u s it iss l n ” e w t w eni ot h s ppor ho h - t Su eou t e qu e (1 ua c i of io or ome e nc t mple o us h giv al n i n “b e n l e, n wo d e, s ted e f - eho w g t u ay o en r n eac tr hro th e dy h nds an men C eas t of o W ld mo o a h d u o ro or e st gh u r i f ac xp ’s rn t a res l or em ld is ces Seile min th eir in lo e ed s, f re g of or s or bo ist f r , ered s ies r te oks h ies op rrit , alon , h - an or igh-end d - g a n t d h i r r n o en i a u ti n g e ate a d h we sp “ d v T fre d i i ri v s e he i e i n n o s s n m gb ce io h n co er , i n i i o n al d di gy p n a ar i ea a s f l S re .” e s t s d jög l ri e r s s ea cto e io cre f es nc o re de L n r r t. an ta , e n rs l o co , C ry wi d c a to o al n s co l l fo s c o is lu n b n r tan el e fe d wo e r R d, t - me e t b er ec n r ’s ito ca r - 5

Photos by Major Cherri Hobbins, Major Lee Ann Thompson and Captain Leticia Crowell 6 Harfoots’ ministry celebrated A stand-up guy

fter Captain AJim Brickson received national and international media coverage last Christmas for his record-setting 105 consecutive hours of continuous bell - ringing, the Albert Lea, Minn., corps officer is happy to report increased interest and by Major Frank Duracher Salvationists. In 1969 Bill graduated involvement this from Wayne State University with a year from an celebration of ministry bachelor’s of science in math edu - already supportive marked the retirement of cation. The Harfoots were married community. AColonels William and that same year. He taught mathe - Susan Harfoot from their matics in the Detroit Public Schools “Many people positions as national chief secretary until 1975. came to fully and national secretary for women’s understand the crucial work of the Bill attended Tyndale Bible In fact, the captain had dubbed ministries and national representa - Army in supporting those in need College, St. John’s Provincial last year’s effort, “Stand Up for tive for Veterans Affairs Voluntary here,” said Captain Jim. Not only has Seminary, Northern Baptist Freeborn County,” to celebrate vol - Services, respectively. The occasion there been increased interest in the Seminary and Trinity Evangelical unteerism. He never expected to was hosted by national leaders Army and volunteer opportunities, Divinity School. He earned a mas - attract world-wide attention or raise Commissioners David and Barbara he continued, a new relationship was ter’s degree in religion from Olivet $45,000. Jeffrey at National Headquarters. struck with a corn-pellet fuel compa - Nazarene University and completed His marathon kettle shift last sea - ny that has insisted on providing and Other participants of note were: the course work required for a mas - son began at a popular mall in early distributing Thanksgiving food bas - Commissioners Ken and Joy Baillie, ter’s degree in counseling. December at 11:00 a.m. on a Commissioners Philip and Pat kets this year as an employee project. Together, they entered the Tuesday and ended Saturday at 8:00 Swyers, Commissioners James and “This offer was a real windfall for Central Territory College for Officer p.m. In addition to collecting Carolyn Knaggs, Colonel William those in need, the numbers of which Training in 1975 and were commis - money at the kettle stand, dona - Speck, then Lt. Colonels Jeff and are at record highs in Freeborn sioned as “Companions of Christ” in tions could be made online during a Dorothy Smith, Lt. Colonel Richard County, which has put a real strain 1977. They served in four corps live video stream. Vander Weele, Majors Miriam on corps finances,” said the captain. Gorton, Evie Diaz, Steve and Morag appointments for a total of 17 years. “It was amazing to see all those Volunteerism at kettles, which Yoder, and Ray Cooper. They were appointed to the who came to the challenge location already stood at an amazing 80 per - College for Officer Training twice, not just from our county but sur - In presenting their retirement cer - cent, and donations also are expected five years each time. Bill was the rounding regions to offer personal tificates, the national commander to rise this year after the many principal from 1998-2003, and Sue support. The financial donations described the Harfoots as “a perfect speaking invitations Jim received fol - the director of campus services. were a plus, but this was really couple who love the Lord, love the lowing his world record. “If I can about celebrating a community that Army and love people.” They served four years as divi - stand and ring for 105 hours, anyone lets nothing stand in its way to Both Bill and Sue are natives of sional leaders in the Western can do it for eight hours!” he’d accomplish great things,” he said. Detroit, Mich., and lifelong Division and one year at Central declare. Territorial Headquarters where Bill was territorial secretary for person - nel and Sue was offi - cer resource and development secre - tary. Wantoking me happy The Harfoots then served in the Western n a mountaintop village called Territory with Bill as Mukili, a girl has been born. Her chief secretary and Iofficer parents have named her Sue as territorial sec - Sandy, after Major Sandy Hartley, retary for women’s who with her husband, Curtiss, and ministries before summer mission team members, being appointed to ministered in this remote area of Colonels William and Susan Harfoot (center) with Majors Steve National Papua New Guinea (PNG) for just and Morag Yoder and Majors Miriam and David Gorton. Headquarters. three days. An expression of the soci - ety’s wantok system, it was the par - ents’ way of saying the Hartleys are “family.” Having been appointed back to General André Cox Continued from page 1 the Central Territory and reading this birth announcement on in most humble surroundings. Could heaven has come near’” (Matthew Facebook, the Hartleys were moved it be that amidst the bright lights of 4:16, 17). The coming of this king - and reflected that this honor encap - Christmas we too can fail to see the dom signalled a radical change in sulates what their time in PNG true light of the world—Jesus, the values and heralded the possibility really had been about: relation - Son of God? of human nature being utterly ships. transformed. In experiencing the While their jobs as territorial and development department at ter - As we approach this Christmas so ritorial headquarters, while Sandy many years after Christ came and dynamic Kingdom of God we begin director of support services and ter - to perceive the true light of ritorial finance secretary were criti - is an auditor in the Adult changed the course of human histo - Rehabilitation Centers Command. ry, we still see too many people who, Christmas. cal to helping the Army fulfill its though lacking little materially, do “How silently, how silently the mission, what they cherish most They view these appointments as not realize that there can be no wondrous gift is given!” wrote are the people God brought into they have all their others—whether Christmas without Christ. Phillips Brooks in the familiar their lives, whether Oiki, an National Headquarters in Virginia, carol. “So God imparts to human employee at headquarters, or Gerry a corps in La Crosse, Wis., or terri - God’s promise from long ago was and Queensila, the young lieu - torial headquarters in PNG—God- realized with the birth of Jesus—God hearts the blessings of his Heaven. No ear may hear his coming; but in tenants in Mukili. ordained. It is where He would incarnate: “‘…The people living in have them for the moment, where darkness have seen a great light; on this world of sin, where meek souls Though they miss their new will receive him, still the dear friends, the Hartleys are happy to they are investing themselves fully those living in the land of the shad - and trusting Him for the future. ow of death a light has dawned.’ Christ enters in.” be back home and serving in specif - From that time on Jesus began to May this be so for you this ic areas of giftedness. Curtiss is cur - “Some might call it a simple-mind - preach, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of Christmas, for the Light has come! rently resource development con - ed faith,” said Curtiss, “but it’s always sultant in the community relations been easy for me to trust God.” 7 University 2020: LiveLLiveiveeMMusicMusicusic The next in wworshiporship bbyy 20202020 Semester January Prayer Calendar January 16 - 17, 2015 Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza, Merrillville, Ind. Two days of practical instruction designed to expand skills, inspire leadership and energize worship. For corps officers, My Prayer List Day Bible Reading Pray for The Salvation Army worship, music and gospel arts leaders present and future. 1 Thursday Genesis 1-3 Mankato, Minn., Corps

Featuring: Majors Ian and Isobel Robinson 2 Friday Joshua 1-5 Mitchell, S.D., Corps Mission Development Secretaries, Southern California Division 3 Saturday Psalms 1-2 LaPorte, Ind., Corps

Great break-out sessions from getting started to keeping going in: 4 Sunday Job 1-2 Menasha Fox Cities, Wis., Corps Captains Sergii Kachanov & Preaching Beginning instruments Drama 5 Monday Isaiah 1-6 Tatiana Kachanova (Canada) Worship planning Youth music programs Dance 6 Tuesday Matthew 1-2 Southeast, Mich., ARC*

Children’s singing Praise bands Media 7 Wednesday Romans 1-2 Mt. Clemens, Mich., Corps

Supported by: 8 Thursday Genesis 4-7 Molin e Heritag eTemple ,Ill. ,Corps Territorial Music and Gospel Arts Dept. 9 Friday Joshua 6-10 Logansport, Ind., Corps Territorial Youth Band and Youth Chorus 10 Saturday Psalms 3-5 Northern DHQ** Chicago Staff Band Bill Booth Theater Company 11 Sunday Job 3-4 Manhattan, Kan., Corps The Singing Company Instructors throughout the territory 12 Monday Isaiah 7-11 Elgin, Ill., Corps

13 Tuesday Matthew 3-4 Mattoon, Ill., Corps

14 Wednesday Romans 3-4 Minneapoli s Central ,Minn. ,Corps Boundless International 15 Thursday Genesis 8-11 Congress in July 16 Friday Joshua 11-15 Newton, Iowa, Corps

17 Saturday Psalms 6-8 Ludington, Mich., Corps

18 Sunday Job 5-6 Cultural Awareness Sunday

19 Monday Isaiah 12-17 Milwaukee Citadel, Wis., Corps

To register and see schedule visit: 20 Tuesday Matthew 5-7 Grand Rapids Kroc Center, Mich., Corps http://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/usc/music For hotel reservations, call 219-769-6311 21 Wednesday Romans 5-6 India South Eastern Territor y PIM 22 Thursday Genesis 12-15 National Advisory Board meeting in Jackson, Miss. 23 Friday Joshua 16-20 St. Louis, Mo., ARC*

24 Saturday Psalms 9-11 Owosso Citadel, Mich., Corps

25 Sunday Job 7-8 New souls for Christ this Decision Sunday 26 Monday Isaiah 18-22 Muscatine, Iowa, Corps

27 Tuesday Matthew 8-10 Madison, Ind., Corps

his season help get a buzz donations by joining the 28 Wednesday Romans 7-8 Olathe, Kan., Corps started about Salvation Army #RedKettleReason campaign. 29 Thursday Genesis 16-19 Evanston, Ill., Corps Tministries and people who It’s simple and fun! Snap a shot benefit from Red Kettle of yourself and your written reason 30 Friday Joshua 21-24 O’Fallon, Mo., Corps for giving to The Salvation Army at 31 Saturday Psalms 12-14 Minneapolis Parkview, Christmas and post it on Twitter, Minn., Corps Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest Go to www.prayercentralusa.org for prayer updates. * = Adult Rehabilitation Center and/or Instagram using the hashtag ** = Divisional Headquarters #RedKettleReason. If you follow the prayer calendar in the next year, you will have PIM = Partners in Mission read through the Bible! 8 Rockford focuses on Africa Spreading Christmas cheer

rifting into the autumn, Many groups, schools and volunteers team up with The Salvation Saturday-evening air from Army at Christmas to help others and spread Christmas cheer. Dthe Rockford Temple, Ill., Here are two unique groups in Milwaukee. Corps were the soulful sounds of African music—unusual for Elves from overseas a corps renowned for its Scandinavian traditions and biennial jubilee! This year elves descended During this jubilee “off” year, the on The Salvation Army’s corps decided to hold a missions Milwaukee, Wis., weekend emphasizing Africa, a conti - Distribution Center to help nent of particular interest to corps sort toys that came in after membership which includes a Christmas last year. Congolese family. Delegates for the Volunteers from as far away weekend came from across the U.S. as China, the Philippines, and beyond, reported Majors Steve Italy and Austria donated and Christine Merritt, corps officers. an afternoon to help the Army “Do the Most Good.” Saturday began with the National Sound of Africa brass band and Majors Steve and Christine Merritt This enthusiastic group singing followed by presentations on was actually a human the Army’s work in Africa and cultural Saturday evening featured a joint resources team from awareness. Speakers included Sound of Africa and Rockford Johnson Controls, a global Commissioners John and Vero Ludiazo, Temple band, African dance and technology and industrial former territorial leaders of the timbrel performances, the Crazy leader, which took time Democratic Republic of Congo for Jesus male vocal octet and a away from meetings to give Territory; Colonels William and devotional from Captain Daniel back to the community. Eleanor Norris, former missionaries in Diakanwa. The music continued on They connected with the Africa, and Captains Charles Nkanza Sunday morning with Army through Milwaukee and Daniel Diakanwa, Eastern Territory Commissioner John Ludiazo bring - County Advisory Board corps officers. Salvation Army garments ing the message. member Linda Chapin, vice made in the Congo were available for After such a well received and president of human resources for Johnson sale, and delegates enjoyed an authen - attended event, the corps hopes to The Kapco office is transformed. tic “Taste of Africa” buffet. hold future, alternate-year events. Controls in Milwaukee. After sorting toys by gender and age for this year’s Christmas toy dis - Kids to kids tribution, they assembled snack bags For the last nine years children and wrote 700 personalized letters for across the greater Milwaukee met - children at the Milwaukee Emergency ropolitan area and southeastern Lodge. When the children had their Wisconsin have been helping to Going beyond evening snack they were thrilled to bring Christmas cheer to other chil - receive a special card to pin on their dren through the Kids2Kids oing “Beyond” is exactly bulletin board from another country Christmas Toy Drive. More than 50 what the Central territorial saying someone cares. schools participate, and the toys are Gmulticultural ministries “There was great teamwork and a donated to the Milwaukee Salvation department did in develop - sense of pride,” said Joy Cony, Army Christmas Toy Shop. ing the 2015 Cultural Awareness Week Wisconsin and Upper Michigan divi - Kids2Kids was the brainchild of materials for all four U.S. territories. sional volunteer coordinator. News Radio 620 WTMJ’s Jonathan The theme represents three chal - “Everyone was happy—the volun - Green who reached out to Jim lenges of multicultural ministries: teers, The Salvation Army and our Kacmarcik, president of Grafton, crossing boundaries, extending bor - kids. It was a win-win-win!” Wisc.-based Kapco Metal Stamping, ders and embracing others. The Inc. He is another driving force scripture passage supporting the behind it. Not only does he promote theme is 2 Corinthians 10:15-16 the event, he hosts a winter festival regarding the expansion of the gospel at the Kapco corporate offices called message to the world. “Christmas at Kapco” to encourage Spanish and are suitable for public participation. “It was a real team effort,” said extended use throughout the year Captain Enrique Azuaje, multicultural with suggestions for community “The goal is to increase the num - ministries secretary, of his department. outreaches, worship outlines, ser - ber of toys collected every year,” In addition, a video highlighting Asian mons, dramas, PowerPoint presen - said Faithe Colas, Wisconsin and ministries was developed in conjunc - tations, song suggestions, activities Upper Michigan divisional commu - tion with the territorial visual commu - and multiple other resources. The nity relations director. “Last year nications section. Beyond posters are available in four schools donated more than 20,000 The Cultural Awareness Week additional languages: Filipino, toys, and this year Kapco would materials are available in English and Korean, Lao and Russian. like to collect even more!”

Promoted to Glory

Brigadier Barbara Vogelgesang services staff at territorial head - New Brigadier quarters (THQ) in Chicago where, Barbara in addition to her regular duties, Vogelgesang was she revised the Bible correspon - Members promoted to dence courses to prisoners. During Glory on her tenure at THQ she earned a September 21, bachelor’s degree in the administra - 2014, just one day tion of justice. Following this she July - September 2014 after she turned served as divisional director of cor - 93. rections in the Wisconsin and Barbara was Upper Michigan and the Kansas 89 Senior Soldiers born to Arthur and Western Missouri divisions. and Francis Vogelgesang in Chicago, Barbara retired in 1983 but con - Ill. After graduating from high school tinued in correctional ministries as 138 Adherents in Huron S.D., she entered training the Protestant chaplain for Texas and was commissioned in 1941 with for about three years and then the “Crusaders” session. During her assisted the prison school system as 208 Junior Soldiers first 19 years of officership, she a substitute teacher until age 75. served at corps across five states. She is survived by a brother and In 1960 she joined the correctional many cousins and friends.