Growing up as a Salvation Army officer’s kid, church was always an essential part of Jayson’s life. “I checked every box. I was a junior soldier, senior soldier, corps cadet, and I was active in the Music & Arts ministries of every division we called home.” 

Through every move and major life transition, music was the stabilizing force that grounded Jayson’s faith and helped him discover his place in the body of Christ. 

“Music is a real passion of mine. From an early age, music opened doors for connection and community. Through The Salvation Army, music gave me an outlet for worship, and God continues to use music to deepen my awareness of His presence in my life.” 

As a high school senior, Jayson had the opportunity to work as a music ministry intern for The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division. This role helped Jayson discover a newfound love for teaching young people. Today, Jayson’s gift for teaching continues to bear fruit at the Lowell Citadel Corps, where he currently serves as the youth ministry coordinator. “God has placed so many amazing people and opportunities in my life to show me who He is, and now I have the same opportunity to show others who He can be for them.” 

If there’s one nugget of wisdom from his life that Jayson would like others to know, it’s that “no matter how tough life gets, there are always people in your corner who love you and desire to help you grow.” Jayson has experienced this firsthand through the example of mentors and friends God has used to pour into His life. 

God has been speaking to Jayson through the promises in Isaiah 41:10— “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” 

“This is a constant reminder that God has great plans for my life. Even when circumstances may not make sense at the moment, I’ve found that I can anchor my trust in His love, and this is the same hope that I want others to find.”

Whenever Jayson isn’t planning youth programs or practicing his horn, you can usually find him cheering on the Boston Red Sox and the Pittsburgh Steelers!