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After years of searching, the Bend (Ore.) Corps, led by Majors Robert and Miriam Keene, finally found a home.
The dedication ceremony took place in July with corps members, officers from across the Cascade Division, and Bend Mayor Jim Clinton in attendance. Lt. Colonel Judith Smith spoke, and Majors Sabrina Tumey and Tammy Ray provided music.
“Looking back, it seems like it was a long road to get to this day,” Miriam Keene said.
The corps had convened for services at a former thrift store prior to finding the new building, which did not allow for growth. After failed attempts at finding a new property, Kristine Venier, administrative assistant at the corps, found another location for sale. With the help of Cascade Divisional Headquarters, the corps secured the property.
“God has been so good to the Bend Corps, and his provision will prosper his work for his people,” Keene said.
The corps is already organizing new programs for mothers with preschoolers, women’s ministries, men’s fellowship and veterans fellowship.
“We feel very blessed to be a part of The Salvation Army’s ministry in Bend, and trust God’s faithfulness to his ministry in beautiful central Oregon,” Keene said. “We know we are building on the work for the kingdom done by those who have gone before us.”
