by Minerva Colón-Pino

When trial demands loss and brokenness, God's grace opens the way to true freedom. After committing her life to Lord, Yolanda learned a painful truth that forced her to make hard decisions. Knowing what was at stake, she chose to leave everything that was familiar to her to protect those she loved. Walking in the valley of darkness, nearly destroyed, she learned the Lord´s comfort, strength, and guidance to healing.

by Minerva Colón-Pino

Tras entregar su vida al Señor, Yolanda Ciriaco, ahora Cadete del Colegio de Entrenamiento para Oficiales descubrió una dolorosa verdad. Tuvo que dejar atrás todo lo que le era familiar para proteger sus seres queridos. Su plena confianza en el consuelo, la fortaleza, la dirección y la gracia del Señor la condujeron hacia la restauración y la sanidad.

by Robert Mitchell

Salvation Army officers who traveled to the Holy Land in 2023 said the trip changed their lives and opened their spiritual eyes in a new way to the major events surrounding the life of Jesus, particularly the final week of His earthly life. Now when they speak from the pulpit, they do so with the authority of people who truly walked where Jesus walked in Israel and felt His presence.

by Guest Contributor

Commissioner Nancy Moretz followed her calling to a life full of love, learning, and faithful service. Her journey in ministry took her across the Eastern Territory, into the boardroom, and beyond, a testament to what can unfold when a woman trusts the Lord with her whole heart. Read her inspiring story in her own words: “I learned to bow low and stand tall as a spiritual leader wherever God placed me.”

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.