Great music.

Drama.

Dance.

Fun.

Friendships.

Worship.

Laughter.

Love.

Prayer.

These are the ingredients of Youth Councils, Golden State style.

I thank God for this wonderful experience and for those youth who are even more committed to Jesus as a result. Good youth leadership by Captains Paula and Roy Wild. Hallelujah!

An age old tradition continues in The Salvation Army: Youth Councils. Once upon a time it was for uniformed young people who had a very good record of attendance and support of the corps. Most usually they were Corps Cadets.

It’s different today. Here’s where change is good and God is honored. The picture now looks way more like the kids are considered more important than the traditions. We probably should call it something else as well. Of course the name isn’t so important, but councils describe a formal event with rigid expectations. These councils today are relaxed, but no less spiritual. I’d say the young people seem to be participating at a deeper level than I remember in the past. This too is a good thing.

With each division in the Western territory USA conducting one of these, may our youth see Jesus and love Him with their lives. Hallelujah!

“fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” -Hebrews 12:2

My granddaughter was dedicated today in the holiness meeting of the Lancaster, Ohio Corps today. Less than a year old, she looked precious and behaved perfectly as her parents, Captains Jason and Leslie Knaggs presented her to God for His care.

I was born for these opportunities and joys. Hallelujah!

^{Mark 9:42} “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them if a large millstone were hung around their neck and they were thrown into the sea

Here’s a site that’s worth looking at. Driven by the USA Western Territorial Youth Department, it’s creative, reliable and useful.  Check it out by clicking here.

“Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.”- Psalm 37:4

So we made it to another great camp. The Western (territory) Youth Institute is being held this year at beautiful Camp Arnold at Timberlake, near Seattle, Washington. Under the leadership of Majors Ivan and Jennifer Wild, the 170+ youth and leaders have come together to study the Word, get acquainted better with God, and have a good time. The meeting tonight was terrific and the deep prayers in the room are God honoring.

I’m convinced that God is not finished with TSA when He gathers the likes of these youth and leaders. Hallelujah!

Please be in prayer for them this week . It’ll be worth every minute on your knees.

“For the LORD takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation.”- Psalm 149:4

TSA maintains 50 camps across the USA. As different as their addresses, they each have the mission of TSA at their heart. Tens of thousands of kids will attend camp this summer there, enjoying the outdoors and the unique SA camp programming.

In addition to the ministry to the campers, thousands of college age young people are at work there, having their lives shaped as a result.

I’ve made significant spiritual decisions at camp as a camper and even met Carolyn at a great SA camp as well. What more could you want?

Deuteronomy 23:14
For the LORD your God moves about in your camp to protect you and to deliver your enemies to you. Your camp must beholy, so that he will not see among you anything indecent and turn away from you.