Listen to this article
Construction on schedule for new Kroc Center.
by Donna Ames, Major –
Worshipers in hard hats and orange safety vests gathered at the construction site to view the placement of the cross on the outside corner of the new chapel. Soldiers, advisory board members and construction workers watched as the cross was hoisted into place. A simple service followed, including the singing of “In the Cross,” a Scripture reading and reflections on the significance of the cross by Major Jerry Ames and a prayer of dedication by Corps Sergeant Major Jim Horgen.
From the earliest planning stages, the Salem Citadel Corps has considered the chapel as the heart of the new facility. It is quite literally the heart of the building with its central location and distinctive entryway off the main lobby. It is also philosophically the heart as programs are being developed around The Salvation Army mission “to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human need without discrimination.” But most of all, it is the heart spiritually as corps members prepare to move into their new center of worship and service.
Topping 45 feet, the cross is the highest point of the building and is a visible sign to the community that this is a facility dedicated to God. It is also a reminder to all who will worship and serve there that this is a place where Christ’s name is lifted up and that the love of God motivates all that we do.
Construction of the 92,000 square foot facility is now almost 50 percent complete and right on schedule for the grand opening in September 2009.
More information is available at www.salemkroc.org. Majors Jerry and Donna Ames are corps officers in Salem. Major Jerry Ames is also the coordinator for Marion and Polk Counties and Major Donna Ames is director of Salem’s Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center.