We're Better Together
With an overall theme of “We’re Better Together,” more than 300 registered friends and family members participated in the WMNI Homecoming at Little Line Island Camp and Conference Center on July 13. It was a warm and beautiful day with occasional lake breezes that added to the enjoyment of all in attendance.
The words of Psalm 133:1, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity” formed the basis of the worship services that began and ended the day. These services featured WMNI musicians, including the Divisional Band, the first ever Homecoming Chorus and a youth praise team. Special guests, Commissioners Bill and Nancy Roberts, shared the importance of living in unity and journeying together as we face the daily tasks of life. The closing session also included a farewell to Accepted Candidate Breanna James and her family as they prepare to move to The College for Officer Training where Breanna will train to become commissioned as a Salvation Army officer.
The time between the worship services was filled with opportunities to enjoy lunch and the many activities that Little Pine Island has to offer. The waterfront was a favorite spot for swimming, pontoon rides, and paddle boating. Some delegates tried their hand at archery or the ever popular Tomahawk Throw. Face painting and the photo booth were very popular indoor activities. Others enjoyed giant yard games, horseshoes, bounce houses or just catching up with friends. Many people found great bargains on uniforms and Salvation Army merchandise at the Trade Central shop.
One of the highlights of the afternoon was the “World Service World Bazaar” featuring activities and items for sale to support World Services. Each booth represented a different country or culture in which The Salvation Army serves. The information and activities helped to reinforce our theme of “We’re Better Together” as we worked to support our Mission Partners in Kenya. Delegates were also introduced to the newly designed and soon to be launched WMNI World Changers initiative which encourages WMNI Family members to commit to personally support World Services giving in their home corps. More information regarding this opportunity will be shared with the corps officers soon.
Through the Homecoming events, we pray that the family and friends of the WMNI Division will realize that we are all working together to build the Kingdom of God. We are all a part of His family and “We’re Better Together.”
