Zonal Leaders conduct support visit in USA Southern Territory

By: Lt. Colonel Allen Satterlee

Commissioners Edward and Shelley Hill, the International Secretary and Zonal Secretary for Women's Ministries of the Americas and Caribbean Zone respectively, completed a support visit of the ministries and operations of the USA Southern Territory. The Hills, originally from the USA Western Territory, have also served in the Singapore, Malaysia, and Myanmar Territory as well as the Canada and Bermuda Territory before taking up their appointment in their current positions in 2021. As zonal leaders, they represent the General of The Salvation Army to the respective territories and commands in a zone but also represent the territories to the General and the rest of International Headquarters. 

The support visit was wide-ranging, including looking at the scope and magnitude of ministries and services, the health and fervency of evangelism and discipleship, the financial health as well as plans and projections for future growth and development in the territory. Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart headed the Southern Territory's preparation and presentations, ably aided by members of the territorial leadership team.  

Sandwiched between the busy schedule for the review were several other events. They started their week by ministering in the Sunday morning service at the Gwinnett County Corps. They also were special guests at the launch of the third season of the acclaimed television series, The Chosen, held at the Fox Theater in Atlanta, and then shared in the THQ Thanksgiving Dinner held for employees and officers.  

During their visit they were treated to special presentations of Army ministries and initiatives including prison ministry and Pathway of Hope from the Social Services Department; the RAISE program of the Youth Department; and an explanation of the MALA program of the Music and Creative Arts Department. Other presentations were made about Ministry Toolkit and the partnership between the Army and the Boys & Girls Clubs. Departmental visits to the Emergency Disaster Services Department and the Communications Department added more in-depth insight into specific programs that reach tens of thousands every year.  

"We were deeply impressed by what we have heard and seen," said Commissioner Edward Hill. "The Southern Territory continues to be a leader and example of appropriate inward focus for the corporate health of the Army as well as the outward focus of winning souls to Christ's kingdom and serving people in need." After a brief trip to enjoy Thanksgiving with their family, the Hills return to International Headquarters.