by Captain Steve Bradley – 

Actively seeking to follow the Apostle John’s instruction to “live deeply in Christ,” more than 450 Salvationists and friends pitched their spiritual and, in many cases, literal tents for three days of exploration in the Word at the first divisional Family Bible Camp.

Camp Arnold at Timberlake was the venue, and special guests from the Canada and Bermuda Territory, Colonels William and Marion Ratcliffe, brought Spirit-inspired messages exhorting campers to “Be Ready for Christ,” “Live Deeply in Christ,” and “Stay with Christ.”

Colonels Bill and Gwen Luttrell, territorial secretary for personnel and women’s ministries secretary, respectively, installed Lt. Colonels Chris and Janice Buchanan as divisional leaders during Friday evening’s welcome meeting. Becki Barnet and Major Tom Morrow represented the division’s soldiery and officers in welcoming the new leaders and pledging their support for the Army’s mission in the Northwest.

Saturday’s family activities included seminars on spiritual formation, led by the Ratcliffes. Majors Carol Madsen (R) and Ralph Hood led seminars on spiritual fitness and spiritual leadership.

College for Officer Training-bound candidates Tim and Sybil Smith were bade farewell from the division and personal testimonies were offered by Tim Smith and Major Ruth Sundin.