by Warren L. Maye

Two young Jamaicans raised in families where faith was more than just a Sunday ritual—it was the heartbeat of daily life: Shean discovers his calling early on, drawn to The Salvation Army’s mission of social responsibility and spiritual care. Tanish, too, feels that God has plans for her future. They meet, bond over shared dreams, and say “I do.” Together, they answer every call, feeding the homeless, mentoring youth, leading worship services. Their love story includes everyone.

by Hugo Bravo

For Black History Month, SAconnects spoke to pastors, employees, and members of The Salvation Army Eastern Territory about the ministries in which God has placed them. Some arrived with experience suited to their responsibilities. Others were caught off guard, forced to learn quickly under pressure. But all their ministries have been enriched thanks to their willingness to take these roles into their hands and let the Lord guide their feet forward.

by Warren L. Maye

For many Salvationists, service is framed not only by uniform and rank but by what we call a Soldier’s Covenant. This covenant is more than an oath. It’s a promise, binding holiness and mission. It’s a two-way street: on one side, the formation of Christ-like character; on the other, an ethic of selfless service to neighbors and communities.

by Robert Mitchell

Christians should make a statement not only in the way they live, but also in how they die. That was the case for Alba Talavera, who was sure she was headed to Heaven but made it her business to tell others about Christ so they could join her. A former single mother with a heart for youth ministries, this longtime Salvation Army officer inspired her family and everyone around her with her steadfast faith and the way she handled her battle with cancer.

by Robert Mitchell

The Salvation Army helped Mark Shapp’s family when he was young, and he never forgot that generosity. Today, donning a penguin costume, he stands kettles for The Salvation Army and helps many other organizations with his time and talent. His story dovetails nicely with The Salvation Army’s “Give with Joy” campaign based on 2 Corinthians 9:7, which teaches Christian believers that “each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

by Robert Mitchell

The Christian faith mixes as easy as paint at this after-school arts program at The Salvation Army in Pottsville, Pa. It might never have happened without a chance meeting between Captain BettyEllen Barrett and Shelby Van Cleef, who leads the program, at a Pennsylvania street fair. The area is a rough one, and The Salvation Army provides a safe space every Thursday for kids ages 6 to high school to express their artistic sides and learn about the love of Jesus Christ.

by Warren L. Maye

Respect for the poor and downtrodden people in our society comes after we take a second and third look and keep looking until we understand and care about who we see. Reading this article will sharpen your perspective and encourage you to actively engage in ways that will give you the courage and compassion to truly see and help transform lives.

by Warren L. Maye

Whenever you move to a new spot, it’s a great chance to grow, try new things, and see the world in a fresh way. This story is about people who have shuffled around quite a bit in their lives. They keep it simple, pack light, and prioritize quality over quantity. And they make a huge difference in others’ lives through their work. There’s plenty we can learn from them.