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Vibrant youth ministry points to a promising future.
by ERIC TUMALE, CAPTAIN –
The Del Oro Divisional Secretaries for Program Captains John and Pamilla Brackenbury recently enrolled the 14 newest junior soldiers of the Chico (Calif.) Corps. The Brackenburys also led the Day of Renewal ceremony for 13 existing junior soldiers. Two of the young people who renewed their promises were also the newest recruits of the Chico Corps—they are currently attending the senior soldier preparation class spearheaded by Chico Corps Officers Captains Eric and Jasiel Tumale.
About 130 people witnessed the enrollment ceremony, including the parents and relatives of the new junior soldiers as well as the youth who renewed their promises. Most of the newly enrolled junior soldiers were participants of the corps’ Kids Safe vacation Bible school (VBS) held last summer. One of them, Gilda, who came to the Army for the first time through VBS, said, “I found new friends in The Salvation Army and will always be coming to the Army programs.” Gilda kept her promise, and now she is one of the newest junior soldiers of the Army.
The junior band and singing company performed during the holiness meeting. One of the parents said, “I never expected that my kid could play an instrument.” Another parent testified to her children’s spiritual growth. She said, “Seeing my children praying before meals and before going to bed adds joy to my heart. They learned a lot from The Salvation Army: praying, playing an instrument and singing. My kids are always excited to go to the Army.”
