Peer

01/08/2024

It's time for a ! ⭐ Before Aleacia started working at The Salvation Army Long Point Camp three summers ago, she attended the camp since she was seven years old. 🏕️ She shares her favorite memory below!

“My favorite memory from a Salvation Army camp was the summer of 2023, while I was working as a float counselor. I was with the Music Conservatory, and I was given the opportunity to sing in the Long Point Chorus and dance in a club—which are two of my favorite things to do. But my favorite part of that was seeing all the campers coming together and gaining friendships that they will carry for a lifetime while also getting instruction on many aspects of music and arts and gaining a relationship with Jesus.” 💚

| East Youth

30/07/2024

When we trust in His goodness, we understand we are hearing Him the best way for us at all times. 💛

You may wonder why God does not speak audibly to you. Cadet Scott Swires will address your concern in this intriguing article.

29/07/2024

⭐ Eliza was born in 1863 in Coventry, England. When she was 15 years old, a group of women preachers, affectionately known as the “Hallelujah Lassies,” started the work of The Salvation Army in her town. Their unique blend of enthusiasm and commitment to the poor was an instant attraction for Eliza. She immediately wanted to join them.

On her 16th birthday, with her parents blessing, Eliza joined The Salvation Army and began working in a coalmining village in Northern . In this life-changing experience, Eliza witnessed God at work.

Then in 1879, Eliza and her parents immigrated to Philadelphia, PA. Her father promised her that she could begin the work of The Salvation Army in America. Then-16-year-old Eliza contacted General Booth about the opportunity. Unsure of her abilities, he gave her permission to “test the waters.”

Eliza and her parents arrived in Philadelphia, and with only a verbal blessing from General William Booth, they commenced The Salvation Army’s work in America. Eliza used the techniques she learned from her experience as a “Hallelujah Lassie.” Within a month of their arrival, they rented a building on the west side of .

The Shirley family began holding church services with a specific focus to help the poor. Because of Eliza’s success, in 1880, General William Booth sent eight members of The Salvation Army from England to America to officially begin the work under the leadership of 30-year old George Scott Railton. His group of young, enthusiastic pioneers comprised of seven young women ranging in age from 18 to 22.

In Mark 8:34-36 (NIV), Jesus posed a crucial proposition to His disciples: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it.” Simply stated, Jesus succinctly defined the cost of discipleship.

It is all about people coming to know Christ and seeking to know Christ. It was a simple divine truth that fueled their fire! God speaking the words to people who, in turn, took up their cross and followed in obedience—even at 16!

This month, remember the phrase, “God wants to put feet in our faith.” How can you, like Eliza, enhance your vision and seize the day for Christ? 🧡

➡️ https://peermag.org/articles/eliza-shirley/

28/07/2024

: How do I know that Heaven exists? 🧡

"The short and easy answer is 'because the Bible says so.' The personal reason I believe Heaven exists is because humans were created with a soul which makes humans eternal. God’s original plan was to live among us and to live in perfect peace. Jesus paid this price so God’s original plan can be executed. Jesus’s death and resurrection is proof of Heaven. He declared, 'I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying' (John 11:25). We are made heirs in God’s Kingdom because of what Jesus did for us."

Thank you, Captain Claudia Simmons, for sharing your advice with Peer readers!

🔗 https://peermag.org/articles/how-do-i-know-that-heaven-exists/

26/07/2024

Follow Ella's day as an intern for the National Publications team! ☕🤩💻 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBagM911k4k

The Salvation Army USA |

From coffee runs to headshots, follow Ella's day as an intern for the National Publications team! ☕🤩💻 ...

25/07/2024

It's time for a ! 🌟 LaJada has worked at The Salvation Army Camp Allegheny and attended camp there for seven years. 🌄

We asked LaJada how working at a camp has impacted her:

“Working at a Salvation Army camp has impacted me in so many ways. I got to be a counselor for preteens and teens and it was an amazing experience. I have seen how a lot of the kids that came to this camp had been through a lot and were really struggling. But they blossomed during our time spent time together. I was able to extend my love for them. They were so thankful and appreciated the little things we did for them, like waking them up with Disney music or feeding them snacks before bedtime.

Overall, working at a Salvation Army camp reminded me to be grateful for everything that I have, and it taught me that kindness in this world will always go a long way. I still think about my former campers every day and I’m so happy for everything that they have taught me on how to be a better human.” 💚
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Interested in being a ? Visit peermag.org/peer-spotlight/ and complete the short form. Gen Z’ers who are featured will receive Peer merch. ⚡

23/07/2024

It's time for a ! 🌟 Get to know Joe the Turk:

Joe was born Nishan Der Garabedian to Armenian parents in Tallas, Turkey in 1860. His father, an Armenian Apostolic priest, tragically died when Nishan was three years old. He lost his mother when he was 14 years old. In 1878, 18-year-old Nishan changed his name to Joe Garabed and made his way to London, England before boarding a ship to work with his brother as a shoemaker in Worchester, MA. Before leaving London, Joe witnessed Salvationists being attacked on the streets. He could not speak English, but he defended the group and briefly became their bodyguard.

Joe eventually left his brother’s employ and traveled the country. He was often fired due to his ever-increasing alcoholism and explosive temper, but his redeeming qualities were his physical strength and an innovative, smart mind. He opened his own shoe store in San Francisco, where he met a Salvationist, John Milsaps.

Through the love and patience of Milsaps, Joe accepted Jesus into his life. On July 24, 1887, he became an officer. He sold his shoe store and served as a traveling evangelist.

🔗 Tap the link to learn more: https://peermag.org/.../captain-joseph-joe-the-turk-garabed/

📸 via The Salvation Army National Archives

22/07/2024

Ever have one of those moments where the anxiety floods in and you just feel overwhelmed? The Bible has a lot to say to help calm our hearts. Here are just a few to get you started. 💛

Ever have one of those moments where the anxiety floods in and you just feel overwhelmed? The Bible has a lot to say to help calm our hearts.

21/07/2024

"Instead of letting us continue in our daily worries, Jesus gives us a resource that can truly change our lives. Seek God first." 💗🙏
https://peermag.org/articles/changing-perspectives/

21/07/2024

Ready to make a difference? Tap the link for your guide to volunteering with The Salvation Army! ❤️ 💪

Volunteering with The Salvation Army is a fantastic way to meet new people, expand your skillset and acquire useful experience...

19/07/2024

: I feel like I can get more out of my faith than going to church. Is church necessary?

"In my experience, the church provides a faith-based community that can impact lives for Christ. This community is meant to uphold you when you feel like you cannot stand on your own two feet and is there to encourage you.

Scripture reminds us of the beauty of community and how coming together can heal, help to stand firm, provide accountability and so much more. Romans 12:15 (ESV) says, 'Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.' I believe that God created us with a purpose and has given gifts to believers that are needed to support the church and one another. The church relies on each of us with our gifts to build up the body. 1 Corinthians 12: 19-20 (NIV) says this, 'If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body.'

God intended for there to be a body of believers to come together and worship in spirit and truth, for people in the body to grow in faith and to bring others to the fold of God."

Thank you, Lt. Macy Gantner, for sharing this advice!

18/07/2024

This week's features the combined Southern Territorial Music Institute (TMI) and Territorial Youth Institute (TYI) held at Camp Keystone! 🎶🎺 Which year do you think these photos were taken?

📸 via The Salvation Army Historical Center | Keystone Camp and Conference Center

18/07/2024

Briauna is a Salvationist living in Florida. 🌴 She’s currently an Assistant Performing Arts Director, holding a bachelor’s degree in music education from Southeastern University and a master’s degree in sport and performance psychology from the University of Western States. She’s excited about using music to help people unlock their potential. 🎶 ❤️

As a Salvationist, Briauna shares one of the biggest takeaways she’s learned from a Salvation Army program. “I have been attending The Salvation Army as my home church for as long as I can remember,” Briauna said. “I was heavily involved in youth and music programs throughout my entire childhood and attended camp every summer.

As a child and an adult, The Salvation Army has given me the space and confidence to explore the things I love most: music and teaching. I am so grateful for the leaders I had throughout my life who gave their time and talent, daily showing their value for others. They saw something in me and cultivated it and have inspired me to give my best to others in order to help them be the best they can be!” ✨

16/07/2024

Discover Amanda's transformative journey through Revolution Hawaii. 🌺✨

"I trusted God was going to do amazing things through me."

15/07/2024

Tom Ferguson became one of the most well-known Salvationists in America and, in time, throughout the world. Tom was an accomplished musician, composer, poet and writer. 🎼 💙 Tap the link to learn more!

Tom Ferguson became one of the most well-known Salvationists in America and, in time, throughout the world.

14/07/2024

Explore the transformative power of tears in Joseph's story of pain and redemption. In "Courageously Soft," Charaia Rush delves into the depths of grief and the journey toward healing. 📘

Tap the link to read an excerpt featured in the summer issue! ⤵️

🔗 https://peermag.org/articles/courageously-soft/

14/07/2024

: Captain Betsy Raes offers guidance to graduates as they embark on their next chapter! 🎓🚀

12/07/2024

Summer Bucket List: See a concert (or two)! Visit the lake or beach! Go to an amusement park! ☀️😎📝✔️

Tap the link for more inspiration!
https://peermag.org/articles/summer-bucket-list/

11/07/2024

Summer days and sandy courts at Camp Grand View '94! 🏐☀️

📸 via The Salvation Army Historical Center

10/07/2024

MEET REBECCA 👋 Born and raised in Indonesia, Rebecca has been a Salvationist since birth. In a country in which there are many religions, Rebecca considers herself lucky to have been raised in a Christian home and attributes her family’s dedication to the Lord as a big contributor to the shaping of her character.

Like many young people, her time in the youth group at the corps was extremely formative to her faith. It was at a youth event in 2015 when Rebecca realized her need for a personal relationship with Jesus. This was a time when she was starting to explore her own independence and figure out who she truly was. In finding faith at this point in her life, the knowledge that God had a plan and purpose for her helped to solidify her identity in Him.

As life went on, there were times when Rebecca didn’t live up to her own self-imposed standards. “I realize that God has gifted and entrusted me with so many blessings and potential and I know that I have to use them wisely for His glory,” Rebecca explains. “I think it is the reason why I became a competitive person filled with goals and ambitions and I always pushed myself to get the best results. When I didn’t achieve the goals that I set or the result wasn’t as good as I expected, I’d break down and I’d blame myself.” Rebecca admits to feeling like she isn’t good enough, smart enough or strong enough, but reminds herself that God never fails and trusts that He will work through her weakness. “When things are just too much to handle, He shows me that He is in control. When my inner wars are overwhelming, He shows me that He’s bigger than my fears, my anxieties, or any storm I’ll ever experience.”

Rebecca hopes that people see Christ in her. Living a life of faith doesn’t make the challenges disappear, but it does mean that you have Someone there to face them with you. “I do believe that God is currently showing me that faith doesn’t make things easy, but it makes them possible to overcome.” 💚

09/07/2024

Get to know Theatre 315! 🎭

Theatre 315 produces community theatre within The Salvation Army Times Square Corps Community Center in midtown .

"We seek to love and serve people in the Performing Arts community without discrimination, using theatrical stage productions as our platform, and tell stories that reveal the good news of God."

Productions include “Esther the Musical,” “A Child Is Born,” and “Book of Job.” Tap the link to learn more! 🌟 https://theater315.squarespace.com/

Times Square Corps - Theatre 315 |

08/07/2024

that Evangeline Booth’s tenure as National Commander of the American Salvation Army was among its most prosperous time?

Her administrative skills and passion for the mission of The Salvation Army introduced several new programs and expansions.

The Emergency Disaster Services was launched to provide for the families of San Francisco after the devastating 1906 earthquake and subsequent fires.

The program would become a hallmark of The Salvation Army’s presence and ministry in America for the next 100 years—and it’s still going strong!

🔗 https://peermag.org/articles/evangeline-booth/
📸 via The Salvation Army National Archives

07/07/2024

A verse to inspire you today. 💗

05/07/2024

: The says “do not be afraid” many times, but I struggle with fear. How can I work to God and let go of that fear?

"I have struggled with and my entire life. I went through a very difficult time as a young adult where I leaned on worldly things and substances, which resulted in addiction. I couldn’t figure out how to escape the anxiety that weighed on me. Thankfully, in my adulthood, I have learned to lean on the Lord when these emotions overcome me. Philippians 4:6-7 has become a life verse for me.

God promises peace that will overcome us instead of fear; a peace that will guard our hearts to be more in tune with Christ and to find our 'remedy' in Him and not in this world. We all have situations where anxiety and fear may overcome us. It may be the thought of going to college or making sure the people we associate with are the 'right' people. It may even be a struggle with substances. Whatever it may be, put your trust in Him and know that even on your worst days, you have a mighty God who is stronger than anything the enemy may throw your way."

Thank you, Lt. Abby Milner, for sharing your advice with Peer readers!

04/07/2024

Happy from your friends at Peer! 🇺🇸

03/07/2024

Get to know EB, the Podcast Reviewer for Peer! 🎙️ ✍️

He first discovered his love of writing in elementary school. “My journey to becoming a writer started when I was in elementary school and received positive feedback from my teachers about my summer vacation essay.” On what inspires him most in his writings, he said, “It allows me to research, dig deeper, and usually provide unknown information.”

We asked EB what advice he would give to aspiring writers:

“The advice I would give would be to follow your dreams, do what you love, and find your niche. God created you to be you, so be you.” 💚

02/07/2024

"You can truly help change the world, piece by piece, person by person.” – Hannah Perrigin, Miss Volunteer America 2024 🫶

Tap the link to learn more about Hannah's experience volunteering!
https://peermag.org/articles/miss-volunteer-america/

Miss Volunteer America Pageant

Hannah Perrigin, winner of the Miss Volunteer America 2023 pageant, is a regular volunteer with The Salvation Army.

01/07/2024

Summer's web exclusive cover highlights Revolution Hawaii (RevHI)! 🌺🌊☀️

Located on the North Shore of , RevHI invites young adults, ages 18-25, to love God and love others in .

Tap the link to read Amanda's story, a member of this year’s RevHI team!

"Expect God to move! I could have never seen this experience coming if you had asked me nine months ago. But I trusted God was going to do amazing things through me.”

🔗 https://peermag.org/articles/amandas-experience-revolution-hawaii/

30/06/2024

"When my circumstances were bitter, Jesus Himself met me in His Word. That meeting was the sweetest thing I've ever tasted." 💟

🔗 https://www.thewarcry.org/articles/the-bible-and-holiness/

29/06/2024

! Time to get outside. No matter where you are (in whatever climate), you can enjoy some of these activities by yourself, with friends or with family. 😎🌞🍉

Things to do outside in summer! Host a picnic, Build a drive-in theater in the backyard, Tie-dye shirts, Watch the sunset.