“The Lord preserves the faithful” — Psalm 31:23b

Philadelphia, Pa.—Psalm 31:23 was the resounding theme of the Germantown Corps reunion held in October. Envoy Anita L. Hinson, corps officer, hosted the weekend, which included presentations by special guests Majors Robert (Bob) and Hester Dixon, the Salvation Army’s area services coordinators in Buffalo, N.Y.; and William Rollins, divisional music director in Massachusetts and director of the Eastern Territorial Songsters.

They led corps members, former corps officers, family, and friends to reflect on a rich past. They also reminded congregants of an exciting future as they prepare to move into the new Philadelphia Kroc Center this year (see Good News! March 2009).

Adding to the celebration were Commissioners Robert A. and Alice Watson, former national leaders; Lt. Colonels William and Marcella Carlson, PENDEL divisional leaders, and Lt. Colonels Abraham and Louise Johnson, officers’ counselors.

Saturday activities included a concert by the Germantown Corps Band, conducted by Larry Battle; a signing event for the book Soldiers of Uncommon Valor: The History of Salvationists of African Descent in the United States; and a stirring praise meeting that included heartfelt testimonials offered by former corps officers and soldiers. Featured was Lt. Colonel Claralyn Lowman, who had served as corps officer with her husband, Douglas, when they were lieutenants. Senior soldiers Ron Thompson and Qualtine Cuffe also shared reflections on their experiences at Germantown.

For many years, the Germantown Corps Center has provided hope for this community, from the ministry of its first corps officers, Cadets Kenneth and Olwyn Abery, to that of Envoy Hinson.

The corps is located in the heart of a physically deteriorating neighborhood where people struggle for daily sustenance and strength.

The Germantown Corps family nurtured Bob Dixon and Hester Burgess as youngsters.

On Saturday at the Praise Meeting, Major Hester Dixon offered these challenging words to congregants who would move into the Kroc Center: “Your new address is holy ground, but don’t leave your history of hope and healing behind; take it with you!”

She continued, “Don’t let things stand between you and God. Take back your peace, power, stability, and freedom. Take back the night!”

On Sunday morning, the Holiness Meeting was sacred, from the opening song to the final amen! The service included the enrollment of both junior and senior soldiers; singing by the Greater Philadelphia Gospel choir, under the direction of Ronda Atwater; and powerful testimonies. After Major Robert Dixon’s sermon, the altar was crowded with seekers.