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Youth decision Sunday
Supported and encouraged by Corps Officers Majors Glen and Linda Madsen, over 160 children, teens, and families attended the rally. Joanne Golden, Corps YPSM said, “We provided the families with a continental breakfast, face painting, coloring contest, video game station, and balloon artists. It was a great way for our corps to show the community how we’re “doing the most good!”
According to Captain Korina Acosta, who serves alongside her husband, Captain Luis Acosta, as associate corps officer, “This was a chance to really show the Long Beach Spanish community that The Salvation Army cares for the ever-changing community that we have the privilege to serve.”
“The key is building relationships,” added Christopher Golden, corps assistant for program and outreach.
Cadets from the College for Officer Training assisted in registration of the children and provided support throughout the rally. Cadet John Morrow gave his testimony with a relevant biblical application for the audience, who also enjoyed the ministry of the Territorial Youth Chorus.
As the rally came to an end, people were invited to come forward and place their names at the cross, stating that they were committing their lives to Christ. Many made a first time decision to follow Jesus.
On a day filled with activities and singing, what was most important were the lives touched by Christ—decisions were made, the gospel preached, and life given to those who previously had not known him as their personal Savior.