THQ Hosts International Zonal Secretaries
The Southern Territory recently had the honor of hosting our International Secretaries for the Americas and Caribbean Zone, Commissioners Kenneth and Cheryl Maynor, for our USA Southern Territorial Review.
While in Atlanta, Commissioners Maynor had the opportunity to visit several Salvation Army locations, meet many wonderful officers, employees, and cadets, and see firsthand the amazing ways God is moving in the Southern Territory and utilizing His Army to love, serve, and disciple in our communities.
On August 18, Commissioners Maynor joined many officers from the Evangeline Booth College (EBC), Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARC) Command, Metro Atlanta Area Command, Georgia Division, and Territorial Headquarters (THQ) in a Sunday worship service at Atlanta Temple Corps followed by lunch at the EBC where they spent the afternoon with EBC staff and cadets.
On Monday, August 19, following a time of devotions, the territorial leadership presented the “State of the Territory,” an overview of our mission priorities and objectives including divisional summaries, highlights from the last three years, our response to the Covid pandemic, and our goals moving forward. This was followed by presentations from various THQ departments and sections over the next couple of days, covering everything from candidate recruitment and employee retention to investment status and social services highlights.
All of THQ paused on Wednesday, August 21, for their weekly “Family Time,” with employees and staff officers gathering together for a few moments to greet Commissioners Maynor and enjoy a time of worship and devotion.
“It has been our overwhelming joy to be among you, so thank you so much,” Commissioner Cheryl said in greeting. “We thank God for you. And it’s been wonderful to hear what the Lord is doing here and around the territory.”
She then eloquently provided a window into the global Salvation Army, highlighting special ministry opportunities and specific prayer concerns happening in the other international zones. “There are so many incredible things happening in the Army world. It’s just amazing we get to be part of this international fellowship.”
In the Africa Zone, she spoke of The Salvation Army’s schools in Tanzania for children with special needs, overflowing past capacity but still welcoming young people in need. This zone especially requests prayer for the safety of albino children who are targeted for use in witchcraft and ritual sacrifice.
For our own Americas and Caribbean Zone, Commissioner Cheryl requested prayer against the gang violence in Haiti and highlighted the Army’s work in Port-au-Prince where corps officers are utilizing children’s programs to begin generational change.
In the Europe Zone, prayers continue to be needed for Russian and Ukrainian officers who may be compelled into military service. Their leadership rejoices that a sports program in Norway for those in recovery from substance abuse is currently flourishing. The program started with five teams and now has 38. It encourages participants to stay in recovery and mentor others as they begin their own recovery journeys.
The South Asia Zone is preparing to launch a Salvation Army Leadership Training (SALT) college. There have been many challenges along the way, but tailoring learning materials for their various cultures has been one of the most difficult tasks.
The South Pacific and East Asia Zone rejoices in the strong teaching ministries in the Solomon and Marshall Islands, open to anyone who wants to learn. A 63-year-old woman was recently able to write her name for the first time in her life!
“When Jesus said, ‘I will build my church,’ It wasn’t for a season, it wasn’t for that time, it’s now. Jesus is continuing to build His church. And nothing will prevail against that,” Commissioner Cheryl said. “Whether there’s persecution, imprisonment, court rulings against us, oppressive governments, gangs that take over the country, witches in Africa, it doesn’t matter. Jesus said, ‘I am. I will. I’m continually building my church.’ And what a beautiful opportunity for us as Salvationists to be a part of that.”
Lt. Colonel Carolee Israel, territorial secretary for spiritual life development and officer development, led those present in a prayer for these global requests. “We pray for your peace around this world. Where your gospel is being preached, the enemy is evident, so we pray for power and your peace over us today.”
Commissioner Donna Igleheart, territorial president of women’s ministries, closed the group’s time together saying, “Thank you, Commissioner Cheryl, for giving us an insight into our brothers and sisters and the beautiful, effective ministry that’s taking place around the globe through The Salvation Army… Today you have given us a glimpse into the ministry that our hearts are moved by.” Turning to the Southern Territorial staff officers and employees, she continued, “What you do matters; you’re a part of this. And for that, we want to say thank you.”
Commissioners Maynor finished off their review with a few more presentations and focus groups before a final meeting with the territorial cabinet. They then traveled to several Atlanta Salvation Army locations including the Atlanta Kroc Center, Atlanta Peachcrest Corps, Bellwood Boys & Girls Club, and the Atlanta Adult Rehabilitation Center before concluding their visit back at the EBC.
In a message to all THQ officers and employees, Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart and Chief Secretary Colonel Deborah Sedlar thanked everyone for their preparation and participation in the review process. “Through the presentations and conversations which took place, our international secretaries have come to experience the vibrant and mission-focused USA Southern Territory.”
As an additional thank you, the territorial leaders provided all THQ staff officers and employees with a food truck lunch, showing their deep appreciation for the diligent work and ministry they provide not only for the review process, but for The Salvation Army USA Southern Territory every day.
