“Jackson for Jesus” certainly has a ring to it.

But whether catchy or not, Jackson for Jesus was the clear intent of A/Captains Ken & Jessie Chapman and their band of soldiers and corps members as the twelve year dream of a worship & service center has now come to fruition. The busy celebration and dedication weekend was bathed in prayer as Territorial Leaders Commissioners David & Barbara Jeffrey, supported by Divisional Leaders Majors Sam & Nancy Henry participated in the many events surrounding this moment in history. Music & Arts guests, the Territorial Band, Songster and Creative Arts groups with their Executive Officer, Lt. Colonel Eddie Hobgood, provided items in every meeting from the Thursday evening Donor Appreciation Banquet in the new Gymnatorium with its yellow, red & blue treatments and acoustical enhancements, to the first Worship service on Sunday morning. Members of the territorial groups had attended annual meetings of the Territorial Music Committee earlier in the week, and had spent an entire day recording a new video program designed to educate the public on who and what The Salvation Army is in a community (more about that in a later edition!).

The new facility, while in most cases, a ‘perfect’ building, is clearly well planned and constructed providing potentially many opportunities to reach out in the community with programs and services that will be innovative and effective. Donor support was so evident with many present that provided many vital attributes such as playgrounds, a walking track, audio/visual equipment etc.

God certainly poured out His spirit to all in attendance throughout the weekend. The Jackson community were well represented as potential music and arts programs were highlighted for the future operation of the center. Winning Jackson for Jesus is easy to speak, but the earnestness and positive spirit of the corps officers, staff and congregation was also evident. The Advisory Board supported every event. One member in particular, none other than the Honorable Phil Bryant-Governor of Mississippi not only spoke at the dedication ceremony, but witnessed to his faith in Christ. He and the Mississippi First Lady knelt at the Mercy Seat at the close of the dedication ceremony. A tribute indeed from one so influential, yet so influenced by his belief in The Salvation Army and its mission.

The final meeting, the first Holiness Meeting was at capacity as the 250 seat chapel with its beautiful stained glass window was indeed Holy ground. Commissioner Jeffrey charged the congregation to be faithful to God, and to witness to the community, while Captain Chapman preached to all in faith of being willing to win souls, to step out in faith, and to expect great things! At the time of invitation, many made decisions at the altar.