On A Spiritual Mission To Serve

By Maj. Edward Hill
Wednesday - July 14, 2010 Share

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By Maj. Edward Hill, Divisional Commander
The Salvation Army Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division

Changes and challenges have come and gone over the years, but through them all the sacred mission of The Salvation Army has never altered from the moment in 1865 that our founder, William Booth, formed The Salvation Army in the slums of London. That mission can be expressed in this enduring motto of our movement, “Heart to God, Hand to Man.”

From humble beginnings 145 years ago, the Army has grown impressively and now operates in 121 countries around the world. Programs and services are vast, including the operation of schools, medical clinics, drug treatment centers, youth programs, camps, feeding centers, daycare services, senior housing and disaster services.

These programs and services are motivated by our spiritual commitment to God. We believe that he has called up The Salvation Army to serve him and, in response, to serve others in need. All of our services are rendered without discrimination, but we make no secret or apology that all we do is carried forward in the name of Jesus Christ.

Salvation Army volunteers serve a home-cooked meal to the homeless at Waimanalo Beach

Every day in Hawaii, people are touched by the compassionate service of The Salvation Army. Its workers and volunteers are seen in parks and out-of-reach places delivering food bags to the homeless and disenfranchised. We also provide youth/family programming and spiritual enrichment opportunities that make a profound difference in the lives of thousands. This diverse and almost endless list of ministries of The Salvation Army are only possible because many in the community share our mission to reach out to the hurting.

These are challenging days for the Army as we seek to keep our programs and services vibrant during tough economic times.

I would ask that you please continue to support the Army’s ministries through the gifts of your time, talent and treasure. These gifts make all the difference as we strive to stay true to our mission.

God bless you and thank you for your interest in and support of The Salvation Army. To find out more, please visit salvationarmyhawaii.org.

Hawaii charitable organizations may send requests for space in either Proof Positive or the free advertisement below to dchapman@midweek.com.