After The Salvation was founded in 19^th century England, they ran into aggressive opposition. Mobs calling themselves The Skeleton Army, objected to The Salvation Army’s noncompliance to alcohol. Many members of The Salvation Army were injured and several lost their lives.

Fast forward more than two centuries later as Canadian, Neil Leduke shares a vision for this age-old “Skeleton story” to be shared with people today in a creative, engaging way. Writer, John Copeland embraced the challenge, joining hands with composer Len Ballantine, creating what was referred to by viewers as, “a phenomenal production.”

“The whole process has been a wonderful lesson in the faithfulness of God and the creativity of The Holy Spirit,” says John Copeland.

Directed by Brad Cain, the two-cast show (Katheryn and Kyle Higgins), sets the scene on the poverty-stricken East London streets where two armies line up for battle. The Skeletons fight for the comforts of the present. The Salvationists fight for the hope of tomorrow. Caught in the middle, Charles Jefferies, a charismatic young leader of the Skeleton Army must decide what side he really is on.

“At the close of the performance [Skeleton Army], I was simultaneously aware of both my tremendous love for the Lord and my utter dependence on Him.” -Luke Watson

After viewing the first preview performance on February 2^nd, Colonel Richard Munn (Territorial Secretary for Theology and Christian Ethics) shares, “Stellar husband and wife team Kathryn and Kyle Higgins gripped the audience from beginning to end with flawless performances—poignant, witty, subtle and evocative. You have a heart of stone not to be moved at their interplay.”

Luke Watson (25) was also among the crowd of first-time viewers and shares: “Long before you hear the first beat of the drum, you’ll find your heart beating in rhythm with this Holy Spirit-inspired show. At the close of the performance, I was simultaneously aware of both my tremendous love for the Lord and my utter dependence on Him.”

A remarkable performance can be expected at this production, but don’t be fooled that everything is performed. The authentic testimonies of Skeleton Army’s team permeated the script and melodies sung. It’s real. Stage Manager Chuck Goodin reflects:

“I am deeply moved by the honest portrayal of the characters—authentically showing their struggles and the power of the Gospel to transform lives.”

Make plans to see “Skeleton Army” and be prepared for your heart to be moved!

For booking requests within the *Eastern Territory, email [email protected].

For bookings requests outside the *Eastern Territory, email [email protected].

*Visit peermag.org/mission-trips/ to view a map of which states are included in Salvation Army territories.

Photo provided by The Salvation Army Heritage Centre.

Echelon Assists Thomas Fire Victims

In the wake of the Thomas Fire (California’s second largest fire in modern history), Ventura Echelon lent a helping hand. As a result of the fire, 11 families who lost everything reached out to the group for assistance. Ventura Echelon created a shopping list of what was needed and another list of information on where families were staying. Members of the Ventura Echelon chapter made individual and group donations to purchase supplies. The Ventura Lion’s Club also assisted in the efforts.

Members of Echelon gathered and packed all of the donations (including basic living essentials) into boxes and delivered them to the families. This simple act of giving had a huge impact. People were brought to tears to have simple things like lotion and body wash. Hugs and support were given to strangers; this time of need brought the community closer. In addition to the Echelon efforts, The Salvation Army in Ventura also provided meals and donations at the corps (church) on a daily basis during the recovery. One Echelon member said, “The fire may have taken from us, but it did not define us.”

Spider-Man Meets The Salvation Army

Peter Parker, a friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, wants a simple school trip to Europe. However, when mysterious things begin to happen during their tour, it’s time for the hero of New York to save the day. The film promises to be a fun ride, and Peer readers might recognize an organization or two throughout. Check it out on July 5th!

Easter War Cry

Did you know that almost a million Easter War Cry’s (The Salvation Army’s national publication) were distributed this month to prisons, nursing homes, shelters, thrift stores and corps (churches) across the nation?

Here For the Right Reasons

There’s so much more to Easter than hunting for eggs, the Easter bunny or getting baskets. Remember the real reason: our Savior Jesus Christ endured pain and suffering on the cross so that we have eternal salvation. In John 11:25 (NIV), Jesus said to her [Martha], “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me will live, even though they die.”

Check out these ideas for a meaningful Easter by The Salvation Army in Australia: https://tinyurl.com/ SA-meaningfuleaster

Bible Bowl

Ever heard of Bible Bowl? Members of The Salvation Army church participate in this unique program. Bible Bowl puts your memorizing skills to the test as you compete against other Bible Bowl teams with facts about the Bible. Contact your corps officer (pastor) for more information.

Save the World Army

On March 11, 2011, coastal Japan was struck by one of the worst earthquakes on record. Even after the tremors subsided, the quake triggered a devastating tsunami that flooded coastal communities, washing away homes and destroying infrastructure.

The combined total of confirmed deaths and missing is more than 22,000. But The Salvation Army, known in Japan as Kyuu-Sei-Gun (“Save the World Army”), was almost immediately on the ground and ready to help. Eight years later, The Salvation Army remains there to provide quiet, supportive environ- ments for young students who fell behind academically. The Salvation Army helps disabled children and adults lead more independent lives, and aids the fishing industry (the backbone of many Japanese coastal communities) to rebuild and recover.