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celebration of the feasts of the Lord. Photo by Ron Bawden
By Marilyn L. Bawden, Major
Members of The Salvation Army West-Retired Officers’ Association (SAW-ROA) met in May at Camp Mt. Crags in the Malibu mountains of Southern California for the annual retreat. Fresh flowers and fruit in each room set the tone for the “Feasting and Fellowship” theme, chosen by current president Lt. Colonel Don McDougald.
Delegates “feasted” on messages and Bible studies by Commissioner William Francis—author of “Celebrate the Feasts of the Lord”—assisted by his wife, Commissioner Marilyn Francis. The couple recently retired as territorial leaders for the Canada and Bermuda Territory.
Throughout the retreat the SAW-ROA band, led by Major Fred Seiler, and chorus, led by Major Carol Pontsler, played and sang. Barbara and Steve Allen, of the Pasadena (Calif.) Tabernacle Corps, along with the Pasadena Tabernacle Songsters also provided musical entertainment.
SAW-ROA will hold its 10th anniversary retreat—themed “Not Weary Yet”—May 1-4, 2014. Under the leadership of future 2014 SAW-ROA president Major Ron Bawden, special guests will include Territorial Leaders Commissioners James and Carolyn Knaggs and musical guest Carol Jaudes from the Eastern Territory. All retired officers are welcome to attend.
