Colonel James W. Betts is the National Chief Secretary of The Salvation Army National Headquarters, effective January 1.

PEER: How were you first introduced to The Salvation Army? 

JAMES BETTS: I was brought to The Salvation Army as an infant, by my parents who were soldiers (members) of The Salvation Army in Canton, OH.

P: What is your favorite part of being a Salvation Army officer? 

JB: I absolutely love seeing people come to life in Christ. Seeing the God-given joy and peace that brings about life transformation is beautiful. This has been a joy for me to witness not just with those we serve or those with whom we worship, but with everyone from random strangers I meet while ringing the bell at a red kettle to long-serving community professionals volunteering at The Salvation Army.

P: Do you have a favorite Salvation Army program or event? 

JB: I particularly enjoy the music programs of The Salvation Army. Music is a lifelong gift and one that can connect people to each other and God in ways unlike anything else.

P: Who has influenced your leadership the most? 

JB: The most influential person not just on my leadership, but on my life, is my wife, Sue. She is the voice in my head when I face life’s toughest questions and through her own leadership, continues to be an example to me of Christ-centered, people-focused leadership that inspires me more every day.

P: What has been one of your greatest joys in your ministry? 

JB: Most recently, in our service in the Adult Rehabilitation Centers Command, I have been able to witness families, once broken, restored. Seeing the joy of reclaimed relationships is an incredible source of joy to me.

P: How do you unwind after a busy day?

JB: With our children all now being out of the house, I love spending time with my wife, either reading, watching a show or even taking a walk. When our young grandchildren are with us, we enjoy building model trains together.

P: What are you currently reading? 

JB: I am currently reading several books by Rabbi David Fohrman. Most recently, I have just finished his book, “The Exodus You Almost Passed Over.” It has been particularly enjoyable learning how to understand the Scriptures from a Jewish perspective. Our current home is in a predominantly Jewish community, and this deeper understanding has led to some beautiful faith conversations.

P: What are you most looking forward to in your new role as National Chief Secretary? 

JB: There is so much to learn about The Salvation Army from a national perspective. So much of what we enjoy in our local context is informed by and supported through the efforts of National Headquarters. I am looking forward to learning how this happens and how I can most effectively come alongside others to serve and support the local context.

P: What is your favorite way of connecting with God? 

JB: Connecting with God is something that takes different forms for me. My early morning time in the Word and in prayer is invaluable, and yet I am equally impacted when an anointed author is able to open my eyes to things of God I had not previously seen. This drives me back to my knees in wonder.

P: Do you have a favorite Scripture verse to share with our readers?  

JB: My favorite verse is actually a chapter. I absolutely love Psalm 84. It speaks of the beauty of serving in God’s house and all the ways that His goodness is poured out on His people.