Kentucky-Tennessee Dedicates New Divisional Headquarters
A new chapter in the storied history of the Paradise Division began on Friday, February 2, with the dedication of the new state-of-the-art Divisional Headquarters (DHQ) building. Located on High Wickham Place in Louisville, Kentucky, the modern 35,500 square foot facility replaces the previous building in downtown Louisville, which had served as a hub for the division since 1927.
Though overcast, the grey skies did little to dampen spirits as over 160 Salvationists and friends gathered for the momentous occasion. Attendees included most of the Division’s field officers, who spent the week at their Winter Officers Councils in the new building. They were joined by such dignitaries as territorial leaders Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart, Asbury University President Dr. Kevin Brown, and former divisional leader Commissioner Barbara Howell. The Divisional Headquarters staff officers and employees, who call the new building home, rounded out the assembled crowd.
Outside the building’s main entrance Divisional Commander Major Thomas Louden offered warm greetings to all present before Divisional Director of Christian Education and Salvationist, Dan Duncan, took to the microphone, sharing a passage from Isaiah 43:16-21 to set the tone for the special day.
The scripture urges believers not to dwell on the past, as God promises to do “a new thing” through His mighty power and salvation. This sentiment perfectly captured the excitement and optimism surrounding the new DHQ facility. After the reading, Commissioner Kelly Igleheart shared brief remarks ahead of the ceremonial ribbon cutting.
Smiles abounding, Commissioners Igleheart, Majors Tom and Julie Anne Louden, Dan Duncan, and 45-year DHQ veteran Debbie Veech cut the large red ribbon and made the new building official. Commissioner Donna Igleheart then unveiled an inscription plaque adorning the building’s façade, offering a prayer of dedication for the space.
The crowd then migrated inside to the expansive Bluegrass Room for a dedication service filled with inspiration and gratitude. The KT Brass Ensemble performed as prelude to a stirring rendition of the William Booth “I’ll Fight” speech, the familiar oration customized for the KT Division with field officers passionately declaring their commitment to The Salvation Army mission.
In his welcome, Major Tom Louden expressed thanks to the long-time Salvation Army partner Asbury University, located just down the road in Wilmore, Kentucky. According to Louden, “That group of godly men and women have served to shape many Salvation Army officers and have provided spiritual and biblical training for the international Salvation Army. We’re blessed to be located in the state of Kentucky along with Asbury University.”
Major Louden also gave special recognition to the Inman Coffee ministry from the Cleveland, Tennessee Corps, whose coffee shop will soon serve the DHQ staff and community. After welcoming the “heartbeat” of the organization in Kentucky and Tennessee — the dedicated DHQ employees and field officers — Major Julie Anne Louden led a spirited rendition of “To God Be the Glory.”
Major Zach Bell, general secretary, offered a prayer of blessing over the new building and all who would carry out God’s work within its walls, asking that the Lord use the employees and officers of the division to further the mission of compassion and care.
In the dedication message, Major Tom Louden connected the new facility to the monument of stones referenced in Joshua 4:7. Just as the memorial stones reminded the Israelites of God’s faithfulness in leading them to the Promised Land, the new DHQ will serve as a testament to the goodness of the Lord.
According to Major Louden, “This building is God’s most recent pile of beautiful stones…and glass… and steel.” He invited all present to look upon the edifice as a sign of God’s provision and as encouragement to trust Him for greater things yet to come.
Following the dedication, Dr. Kevin Brown led the congregation in a prayer of commissioning for the building. Dr. Brown asked God’s blessing over the work that would be carried out within its walls to further the Kingdom priorities — to Love, Serve, and Disciple in the name of Jesus Christ.
Long-time employee and Divisional Finance Director, Debbie Veech, gave remarks on behalf of the DHQ employees, saying that while places come and go, “people matter so much more.” Veech thanked the Loudens and Iglehearts for their vision and leadership in making the new headquarters a reality.
In his words of challenge, Commissioner Kelly Igleheart congratulated all on being part of Salvation Army history. He extolled DHQ as a vital bridge of support between leadership and those battling on the frontlines to fulfill the mission. Commissioner Igleheart recognized employees as the glue holding the organization’s work together.
Echoing the Matthew 8 account of the centurion who stands between need and the One to meet it, the Commissioner encouraged DHQ staff to intercede for the field. Just as the legacy of the previous headquarters is honored, the work carried out presently and in days ahead will plant seeds for the future.
After a closing hymn and benediction, guests were invited to enjoy guided tours and fellowship. Copies of Dan Duncan’s book, Pursuing Paradise, which chronicles Salvation Army history in Kentucky and Tennessee, were available as souvenirs of the momentous occasion.
The new Divisional Headquarters building provides ample room for the Army’s work in Kentucky and Tennessee to continue expanding for decades to come. Since 1883, we have faithfully preached the gospel of Jesus Christ and served human needs in His name, without discrimination. With God’s blessing, this new facility will act as a springboard as we carry our mission of compassion into a bright future.