Growing up, I spent every summer at a Salvation Army camp. Camp became my favorite place every summer, a haven where I felt alive and free. Eventually, I became a part of the staff, pouring my heart into the same camp that had given me so much. 

But last summer (2024) was one of the hardest seasons of my life. I went through challenges, experienced significant loss, and by the end, I felt completely broken. Somewhere along the way, I lost my love and passion for camp. It hurt to even think about returning, and I told myself I never would. 

Then something unexpected happened: God placed the state of California on my heart. I felt a strong pull to step out in faith and work at a different Salvation Army camp: Camp Redwood Glen. I started working that summer with no expectations, determined just to do my job and leave. I told myself I wouldn’t get too attached, wouldn’t make new friends, and wouldn’t experience the kind of joy I once knew at camp. 

But God had other plans.

What I thought would be an ordinary summer turned into the most life-changing experience of my life. At Camp Redwood Glen, I found a community of lifelong friends who felt like family. I created memories that made me cry tears of joy and laugh until my stomach hurt. Most importantly, I allowed God to soften my heart and heal the broken pieces I thought would never be whole again. 

Through that summer, I discovered something beautiful: redemption. God reminded me that camp isn’t just a place, but a ministry. It’s a space where He can work in ways you’d never expect. I walked away from that summer feeling renewed, and with a restored love for camp and a deeper understanding of how God can transform even the hardest parts of our stories into something beautiful. 

Looking back, I’m so grateful I said yes to that leap of faith. I thought I was just going to do a job, but instead, God used Camp Redwood Glen to heal me, strengthen me, and remind me of the incredible power of community and connection. 

Working at camp taught me that you don’t have to have it all together to show up. You have to trust that God can meet you where you are and do something extraordinary. I believe everyone should give camp a try. You never know how God will work through you, heal you, or bless you in ways you never imagined.

By LaJada Myers

Who Said That?

“You don’t get real joy from jewels. The joy from social attainments is nice but it soon passes. The joy of service to the poor and unfortunate is lasting and blessed.” 

Evangeline Booth, the fourth General of The Salvation Army and first woman to serve in the role, said that, quoted in the book written by Flora Larsson, “My Best Men are Women.” 

Called to Mission?

Ever hear someone speak of their mission trip as “unforgettable” or “life-changing”? Ever wonder if that could be you? 

Though mission trips can happen in our own communities every day, The Salvation Army’s four territories provide additional opportunities every summer to serve as part of a mission team either within the states or abroad. These mission trips are available to young people who consider The Salvation Army their church home. 

Still interested? Visit peermag.org/mission-trips for more information on finding a mission trip in each territory.

Get To Know These Salvationists!

Do you know your Salvation Army history? Test your knowledge on these notable people in Salvation Army history.

1. Who served as General, the international leader of The Salvation Army, during WWII? 

• William Booth 
• Evangeline Booth 
• George Carpenter
• Samuel Logan Brengle 

2. Who dispatched the famous Donut Girls to France during WWI? 

• Lt. Colonel William Barker 
• General Evangeline Booth 
• Commissioner Merle Heatwole 
• Captain Joseph McFee 

3. What is one of Joe the Turk’s significant and most-used catchphrases? 

• “You betcha!” 
• “Jesus is Mighty to Save!” 
• “Ring, ring, ring!”   
• “You could not make this up!” 

4. In what year was Mabel Broome commissioned the first African American Salvation Army officer (pastor) in the United States? 

• 1942
• 1956
• 1915
• 1982

5. At what age did Eliza Shirley travel to the United States to begin the work of The Salvation Army in America? 

• 16
• 15
• 23
• 40

6. What is the name of the pop group comprised of Salvationists that made it onto the music charts in the U.K? 

• The Beatles 
• U2
• The Jonas Brothers
• The Joystrings 

It’s Gonna Be May

It’s 1954. President Dwight D. Eisenhower designated a National Salvation Army Week to remind or inform the country of The Salvation Army’s services to help people in need. Eisenhower declared the week to be November 28 – December 4, but in later years, it was recognized in May. He said: 

“Among Americans, The Salvation Army has long been a symbol of wholehearted dedication to the cause of human brotherhood. In time of war, the men and women of this organization have brought to those serving their country far from home, friendliness, and warm concern. In the quieter days of peace, their work has been a constant reminder to us all that each of us is neighbor and kin to all Americans. Giving freely of themselves, the men and women of The Salvation Army have won the respect of us all.” 

To learn more about this week and how you can help in your community, visit salvationarmyusa.org/usn/nsaw/.