A Future General?

As the sun is setting in London this evening, HC members awaiting a vote on the General tomorrow, the sun is rising in Honolulu, Hawaii where 3 keiki (children) are awaiting a dedication ceremony at The Rock, a Salvation Army ministry on the beach at Pokai Bay.

Our son, Rob, will be conducting the ceremony calling each child by name: Solomon Shy Koakonapiliahi Pu'uwaihaokila Makanalani Kelikoa'elaka'uaikekai Niau-Pule, Kekai Kekeikimanaloamaikalani Niau
and
Chanari Jayne Kamakanaonalani Passion Cortez-Hoapili.

Kind of puts everything into perspective, doesn’t it? Somewhere, a future General is being born, dedicated or sworn in. Think about it, General Solomon Shy Koakonapiliahi Pu'uwaihaokila Makanalani Kelikoa'elaka'uaikekai Niau-Pule.

Our twin grandsons, Parker Tai Kuanalu

and Hayden Sheridan Kaopo’i Noland, being dedicated at The Rock several years ago. A future General with an identical twin brother? Could have some fun with that!

JN

A High Council Retrospective: Day Eleven!

The balloting begins at precisely 9:45 a.m. on Saturday, May 15, 1999. The first three ballots require 51 votes or a two-thirds majority. The final ballot requires 38 votes or a simple majority.

The count is completed at 10:28 a.m. The person with the least number of votes on the first ballot is automatically eliminated; in this instance Gaither and Clifton choosing to have their names withdrawn, leaving Larsson, Gowans and Maxwell on the next ballot (As a bit of a teaser, I’ll save the actual voting results on each ballot for the book forthcoming). With Gaither eliminated I must now reconsider my choice (This too will be left for the book).

The second ballot commences at 11:00 a.m., and the result announced at 11:35 a.m. Larsson is eliminated, leaving Gowans and Maxwell to continue on.

The third ballot begins at 11:53 a.m., with the result announced at 12:25 p.m. A two-thirds majority does not prevail leading to the final ballot, when only a simple majority is required.

The fourth ballot commences at 12:44 p.m. And this is where my book begins.

1. The Penultimate Chapter

We’re in London, England to elect the next General of The Salvation Army: Sunbury Court, Day 11. The ballot box stands High Council Chamber center, its membership seated around it. For the fourth time I walk forward silently, placing a prayerfully marked ballot in the box, having not varied my selection since the second round of voting. The process, slow and deliberate, goes well into the second hour; the silence is deafening.

Finally, the last ballot is cast. Quietly, the Tellers remove the box from its stand and proceed to the room designated for this final counting, final because on the fourth ballot a simple majority decides the election, whereas on the first three a two-thirds majority is required, which obviously had not been achieved.

I glance over at Doris and she at me, knowingly, because of our conversation preceding the ballot. It is a for-gone conclusion in our minds that little will change from the previous count, the majority vote getter carrying that margin on into the final ballot. It was between the same two candidates: no speeches, no discussion, little intermingling with one another in between ballots. Who would change their minds? Even before the result is announced, we know instinctively whom the next General will be.

Eventually the chamber door opens, waking us out of our reverie, and in walks the Chief Teller with a final tally. My eyes flit between the two nominees and the High Council President who now holds the result in his hand. Every eye is focused on that hallowed slip of paper, as it is unfolded.

Suspense, intrigue, anticipation! The feel is slow motion, as the President’s eyes meet ours and his lips begin to move. “My fellow members of the High Council, the result of our vote (pause), 37 to 37.”

Unbelievable! A virtual dead heat. What now?

Note: What happened next will fill the pages of the books final chapter. A tie on the 4^th ballot has never occurred before in HC history. The Orders of Procedures indicate, that if a result is not achieved on the final ballot, the nominating process must begin afresh. But, then again, every HC can always change any particular procedure, if so inclined. Hope you enjoyed this eleven-day glimpse into the inner workings of one particular HC. Each will have its own unique story to tell, including the one now in progress.

Disclaimer: Please understand that these glimpses are seen through my eyes only. Others might have perceived and recorded them a little differently, depending upon their own POV.  

JN

A High Council Retrospective: Day Nine/Ten!

Before getting into days nine and ten, let me share a few thoughts on yesterdays 2011 HC result. There were 10 nominations; the most ever so it has been reported. To keep this in perspective, it must be remembered that this is also the largest HC ever. With 109 nominators, there are bound to be more nominees (8 in the 1999 HC, with only 74 members).

It has also been reported “unprecedented” that the President, VP and Chaplain step down in order to accept a nomination bid. I believe this might have something to do with the advanced age of nominees, for it is the more senior members of the HC who are generally elected to these positions, those who would not normally be nominated because of their age. Perhaps the recent rash of extensions has something to do with it.

As I understand it, two of the three, if elected, would only be able to serve as General for one and two years, respectively. That is, unless the legalities are changed, and this is a very complex process. As it stands now the General serves for a 5-year term, or till age 68, whichever comes first. There is provision for some one-year extensions, but usually reserved for a younger General (To my knowledge only one ever previously extended). Maybe we’re looking at another HC a year from now.

Again I was struck with the predictability of nominations, all Commissioners, only one under the age of 60, a majority of others who will be between the ages of 64 – 67 shortly after taking office, should they be elected.

Here’s a first for you, Americans receiving a majority of the nominations, 4 out of 10. As it is, with Knaggs declining (He would have been a very credible nominee had he chosen to stand), it’s now 3 Americans, 3 Canadians and 3 Europeans, nicely balanced for a change, don’t you think? Still it’s going to be tough for an American to be elected, as history has already shown. If there was ever a year, however, this could be it. But then I’m not holding my breath. You’ll have to await my book for the rationale on reasons why. I’d be interested in your thoughts, however.

Finally, it’s going to be “The Long Wait,” as nine nomination speeches, along with answers to questions (16 including the spouses) will be very time consuming. And with this number of nominees it’s more likely to go the full four ballots. With 109 members voting individually, it will assuredly take several hours for each ballot, along with the time it takes to tally votes. I suspect we’re looking at Monday for a final result.

I’ll not digress further except for two things: First, a few younger members nominated would have made for better balance and prepared the way for future HC’s. Second, for perspective, read the thoughts in my previous posts and judge the results of this HC by comparison.

Day Nine:

This was a day of preparation. There were organized prayer meetings in the morning and afternoon with a time of sharing in the evening. The candidates were not present as they were hidden away preparing their speeches and answers to questions. In the down time, Doris and I took a skip through the Walled Gardens, which are down the road a ways from Sunbury Court.

Day Ten:

The spouses have arrived without too much delay. Hallelujah! The day begins with the nomination speeches and questioning of candidates, going on into the evening hours (This with 5 candidates and their spouses, think of 16 with this HC – to consume all of Friday and Saturday, I suspect). John Larsson answered a question put to him regarding the problematic UK investment situation, and did so quite admirably, I might add. In fact, all candidates presented themselves very well.

I will first vote for Israel Gaither. If eliminated it will then be either Gowans or Maxwell, still struggling and praying about this one. I do so anticipating that John Larsson will be selected Chief of the Staff, as I think this position truly represents his giftedness and is where he would be most beneficial (taken verbatim from my notes penned at the time).

Only time will tell. Tomorrow we vote!

JN

A High Council Retrospective: Day Eight!

(My apologies for the roughness of these notes, but time does not permit a more creative rendering)

Eight days now feel like eight months, but we’re almost there, I hope. The commute from hotel to Sunbury Court has become a familiar one, our uniforms in the beginning stages of petrification. Weariness is setting in, including the longing for home, even with all of the many challenges that await us there. Oh, for my own bed and pillow! Ah, home sweet home.

Summer is approaching for those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, furloughs beckoning; it’s off to Hawaii for us, to become acquainted with our nine-month old granddaughter. Interestingly enough, when we left Australia there were those who said, “Now you’ll be closer to family.” In reality, Sydney is closer to Honolulu than New York.

The first order of business is for nominees to stand and declare their intentions. Davis, Edwards and Watson decline for various reasons. The number of nominations received may or may not have impacted their decision. Clifton, Gaither, Gowans, Larsson and Maxwell choose to stand.

We don’t know how many nominations each received, as that number is clothed in secrecy.  The name imprinted on my ballot was… Colonel Israel Gaither, and placed there for several reasons. First, I felt him to be highly qualified – “We appoint, God anoints” or “God elects, we select,” either way, doesn’t matter, whomever, he will be God’s person to lead the army. Second, I felt it essential to match my talk with my walk (to the ballot box). Third, even though a long shot, I believe this nomination will send a significant message. And I breathe a sigh of relief when he agrees to stand.

This proved to be an historical moment, two younger Colonels nominated and standing. There had only been one Colonel ever nominated before in the history of the HC. This does create some logistical problems, however, as we must now await arrival of the wives before continuing – Eva Gaither traveling from South Africa and Helen Clifton from Pakistan (The wives of territorial commander Colonels not members of the HC). Note: That has been corrected with the latest directive enlarging the HC membership.

A motion was made and carried to release the names of those nominated, but not choosing to stand.

Further, it was requested that an additional question now be directed to Gaither: “Having served only in the USA until your present appointment and having been in your present command as a TC for only a few months, are you convinced that you have the background and experience to undertake the worldwide responsibilities of the General?”

We are now in recess, minimally for 24 hours, as this is the prescribed time given nominees for preparation purposes, their nomination speeches and answers to questions written out and read verbatim. The recess may be extended beyond that time depending upon how long it takes the wives to arrive.

That old 1954 movie, based upon a Mickey Spillane novel, “THE LONG WAIT,” starring Anthony Quinn and Charles Coburn immediately comes to mind. Alas, we settle in for “The Long Wait.”

(Assuming nominations have now occurred, this HC, too, is settling in for “The Long Wait.”)

JN

A High Council Retrospective: Day Seven!

Members of the Question’s Committee have their work cut out today. Why? Ninety questions have been submitted - 90! Do the math, depending upon the number of nominees, each answering every question thoughtfully. The committee has to pare down the questions whilst keeping those who submitted them happy. You can imagine the discussion that ensued. Kind of like a Corps Council I once chaired, but let’s not go there.

A recess was required until the committee completed its impossible task.

Fast work. After lunch, we reconvened and the committee presented its result. Not so fast. More discussion. More questions. More meandering. More squirming, until the president finally brought it to a conclusion, satisfied or not.

The nominations begin at precisely 2:50 p.m. on Tuesday, May 11, 1999. The mechanics of running a HC have obviously been in the forefront of our thinking. We know the analytical side of potential nominees, but still little about their vision and passions, making an informed nomination difficult. It is suggested that a time for this be considered in preparation for the next HC.

The ballot box sits in the center of the chamber oval. Each name is called according to protocol order. It is very quiet and solemn, no member moving simultaneously. At precisely 3:34 p.m., #74 places his nomination in the box.

We continue quietly and prayerfully as the tellers take the ballot-filled box into another room for tallying. At 4:00 p.m. they return, and the President announces the result in alphabetical order: Shaw Clifton, Douglas Davis, David Edwards, Israel Gaither, John Gowans, John Larsson, Earl Maxwell, Robert Watson.

The HC is adjourned for the day. This gives time for the President to meet with each nominee individually and share the number of nominations they received. That number is never revealed to other members of the HC. Each nominee will now prayerfully consider his decision on whether or not to stand for election, that decision to be announced on the following morning.

(To be continued)

JN

A High Council Retrospective: Day Six!

Today was a resumption of the “Committee of the Whole.” This takes us out of High Council mode, allowing for discussion on a whole range of matters that particularly concern us, without being bound by HC protocol.  It was pretty freewheeling and, again, revealing - another spoke in the nominations discernment wheel.

In the interest of brevity, I’ve chosen to record only my contribution to the discussion process. It is condensed for the purposes of this post, but a sampling of the wide-ranging discussion that followed.

I push the button on the microphone and wait patiently for my turn in the rotation. In time, the President acknowledges #24 and I speak:

You have not heard from #24 much up until now, as I have preferred to let those with more analytical minds than mine sally forth. We now come to the issues that stir my passion, get the adrenaline flowing and make me want to get up in the morning.

I believe that there are significant issues of “deep change” in our movement that need be explored, aired and vented by this body, i.e., our structure, the appointment process, age of leadership, etc.; this, not only for our own benefit, but also for the benefit of those who will be nominated.

For example, I believe that the structure of The Salvation Army must undergo deep change and be brought into alignment with the 21^st century. We must move from a monolithic, hierarchical, 19^th Century type institutional structure to one that is more relational, flattened, fluid and user friendly.

I believe that there must be more consultation in the appointment process, and those appointments made in congruence with core values and performance, and not according to protocol (going through the chairs) or for expedience sake. This requires the moving of younger officers into leadership positions more quickly.

The lack of “youth” representation on this body (and in many others) is troubling for me, personally. 49 of the 75 members are approaching their 60^th year or older, including me. 21 are between 56 and 60. That totals 70 of the 75 members. There is no one under the age of 50. What can be done to bring younger officers into top leadership positions more quickly? (16 TC’s or Commissioners (26 persons) will retire by the end of the year 2000). What an indictment, but, conversely, what an opportunity! Think about it. We in this room do not represent the future!

We need to elect a General who is tuned into the next generation. DC’s and TC’s must also be tuned in, appointed younger and left in their appointments long enough to both cast and implement their vision. I was 61 when appointed to this territorial command (my first), and cannot effect deep change in a four-year period. Impossible! The General cannot effect “deep change” in a five-year period. Perhaps he or she should be elected at a younger age and given the option of being elected to a second four or five-year term. I don’t know!

But what I do know is that this kind of deep change is going to take holy boldness, including a whole lot of bravado on someone’s part. And I’m not naïve enough to believe it’s going to happen in my lifetime, but I’m also not going to let this unique opportunity pass without saying it out loud here and now. I know how some feel about a tic, cross and full stop, now let’s tackle some of the deeper, mission-based issues confronting our movement.

As an aside, this is the first time I have read these notes since that 1999 HC. And I really can’t believe I said what I said. What was I thinking? Then again, I remember John Gowans being the first to respond, affirming what I said in his own inimitable way. In fact, afterward, we had a little chitchat, he suggesting I continue to speak up on these matters – kindred spirits, huh? After all we are who we are, not who we pretend to be.

That field of potential nominees just narrowed considerably! Any hints on my nominee to be?

JN

For a peak into the HC chambers click on the following link:

http://www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/www_sa.nsf/vw-dynamic-arrays/BACC3A2471E2F6D38025782000553E03?openDocument

A High Council Retrospective: Day Five!

The fifth day happened to fall on a Sunday. I’m assuming yesterday/today/tomorrow (depending where you are on this planet) will follow a similar pattern for this 17^th High Council.

A worship service was held in the High Council chambers with Doris singing (By the way, her CD is available over at: 


http://www.joenoland.com/joenoland/Creations.html


And Izzie Gaither preaching. Her solo was mesmerizing and Gaither’s message absolutely inspiring. He “rang the bell.” He has the makings of a present or future General (Exactly as written in my notes at the time). As an aside to these notes, Gaither was a mere Colonel, way down in the pecking order, so we do break with protocol every once in awhile. But his Generalship was not to be, my take on the reasons why, fodder for another blog when I can be a little more controversial. More on how he and others fared in this HC when I get to the nomination’s day. Now back to my notes.

London in May and the weather couldn’t have been more perfect (Again, unpredictable and another break in protocol). In the afternoon Doris and I jogged, skipped and walked along the river Thames. Yes, we skipped! Londoners were out in mass and you should have seen the double takes as we went skipping by, singing ‘Skip To My Lou, My Darling.” The “Fly’s in the Buttermilk” and “Cow’s in the Cornfield” verses brought smiles to a few dour faces. Unfortunately, we didn’t bring our “Skip A Heart Bypass” sweatshirts with us, nor did I have my baseball cap with the inscription, “Why Be Normal,” on it. Two Commissioners skipping through the HC, maybe that’s a first, huh?

In the evening we gathered in the fellowship lounge, casually and cozily, for a time of singing and sharing. Again, the testimonies and interaction were revealing, personal and intimate, a welcome contrast to the “Order of Procedures” sessions mentioned previously.

Ah yes, my field of potential nominees is beginning to narrow considerably.

JN

A High Council Retrospective: Day Three & Four!

Up bright and early waiting for our limousine when up pulls the same van that transported us previously. Oh well, one can always dream. I push Doris up and in and we we’re on our way. The sessions today don’t promise to be stimulating ones as we will be dealing with 104 Orders of Procedure. 104!

We are now well into the day and, boy, was the above “non-stimulation” observation an understatement. I must be very careful what I say from this point on (and I’m including day four as well, as this session seemingly lasted forever). The detailed, legalistic, ordered mind relishes in this kind of “Orders and Procedures” discussion environment, whilst the creative mind dies a slow death. For me, personally, these were two days of pure torture. Again, this is not a criticism, but an observation. We are who we are!

And I will have to admit that these sessions are important, not only to clarify orders and procedures, but to help us get to know our fellow HC members more intimately, the latter taking predominance in my own mind. The differentiation between right and left-brain thinkers becomes quickly apparent. One’s true personality, quirks and all, begins to emerge in this kind of setting, the gamut from introvert to extrovert, negative to positive, unimaginative to creative, status quoin to visionary.

This right-minded introvert didn’t have much to contribute, just watch, listen, observe, and squirm lots. There were a handful of members who had plenty to say, however, no names mentioned, as this is not meant to be a “tell all” piece (By the way, I can say this much. It wasn’t the women, now present, that were among this handful, as some had so stereotypically feared). Following are just a few of the “squirm” examples:

One left-brain thinker was concerned about the use of a “tic” as opposed to “cross” or “x” for marking the box on the ballot. Considerable time was spent on deciding whether there should be one or two ballot boxes. In defense of this, with seventy-five members, the voting process is quite lengthy as each voter must walk out of the chamber into the ballot room, cast their vote and return before the next in line could take their turn. I was in favor of two, but the majority felt that more than one person moving simultaneously would disturb the sanctity of the process, and perhaps they were right.

Another procedural order discussed at length was, “That no member of the High Council shall propose himself or herself or his or her spouse as nominee for the office of General.” The phrase one member wanted included was “or blood relative.” I must confess that this discussion not only made me squirm, but nearly drove me up the wall. But then again, to others it was extremely important. Come to think of it, I had previously served under a Divisional/Territorial Commander or two just like that. We are who we are!

Another was concerned with “confidentiality” now that spouses are a part of the High Council.” Really! Not only concerned, but passionate about it. To be fair, it wasn’t about gender, but the increase in number. Confidentiality and secrecy are important to some. For me, transparency is the true test of leadership. But then, we are who we are!

I could go on, but suffice to say that these two days were very revealing, and I use that word in the most positive sense. It was during this time that my nominee for General was confirmed.

There was also a lot of substantive discussion, at least by my definition. For example, there was some controversy over the procedural order, “that no question may be altered in its intention or rejected by the Committee without the concurrence of the questioner.” The reason it was controversial is because the hundreds of questions submitted to the Questions Committee for nominees to answer must be pared down, or the 14^th HC might still be in session. I felt strongly that my questions couldn’t be changed (possibly compromised) without my permission. Subsequently, we were able to view the revised questions before they were finalized.

Was I ever glad to conclude these two days and ease into the limousine for our leisurely ride home (in my dreams). Finally snugly tucked into bed, other dreams now occurring on the left side of my brain, punctuated with tics, crosses, x’s, blood relatives and 104 ballot boxes. I am what I am!

JN

A High Council Retrospective: Day Two!

This morning, after seven hours of interrupted sleep (tossing and turning), we begin the 14th High Council, first with the choosing of a non-member Recorder and Assistant Recorder: Lt. Colonel Laurence Hay and Colonel Earl Robinson. Second, came the choosing of non-member Translators (Korean and French) Captain Hwang, Sun-yup and Major Helene Carey. This was followed by a devotional period led by the Chief of the Staff, speaking from 1 Samuel 16.

Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, for I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. (7)

In part he shared, “There were seven nominations and the least expected, David, was selected and anointed. ‘The Lord seeth, not as man seeth.’ God has already chosen the General. The High Council's task is to identify that person. We gather with one accord” (Acts 15:25, 28). The devotional concluded with the singing of "My life must be Christ's Broken Bread."

My all is in the Master's hands

For him to bless and break;

Beyond the brook and winepress stands

And thence my way I take,

Resolved the whole of love's demands

To give, for his dear sake.

I’m a little conflicted with the, “God has already chosen the General,” part. In speaking with others afterward, I sense a similar confliction. Has this person already been chosen, with the HC acting as a rubber stamp? Or does man choose and God anoint? Is it Predestination or foreknowledge? Semantics? My conclusion. No matter. Either way, he/she will be God’s chosen one to lead the army forward into the 21^st Century.

Legal Council was then summoned in and the role called. Three tellers were appointed according to seniority. Nominations for H.C. president followed. Thirteen nominations emerged with nine declining. Commissioner Bob Watson was elected President, no surprise here as the U.S.A. National Commander, historically, is elected to this post more often than not

This did, however precipitate a lengthy discussion on gender balance, the #2 vote getter (also a male) normally assuming the Vice Presidency role. Thus it was decided to hold a separate election, Commissioner Verna Skinner emerging as the VP. The Presidents first order of business was to appoint a Chaplain, Commissioner Margaret Taylor and Press/IHQ Liaison Officer, Colonel Shaw Clifton.

Commissioner John Larsson reviewed and clarified the, "Proposed Orders of Procedure for a High Council Convened to Elect a General." These were accepted unanimously and the morning session concluded with the singing of song # 525.

Take me life, and let it be

Consecrated, Lord, to thee;

Take my moments and my days,

Let them flow in ceaseless praise.

As I sit at my desk, following, summing up what has transpired, three words jump out at me and I write them down: “Seniority,” “Position” and “Protocol.” And along with these three, I then jot down a fourth, “Predictability.” I share this not as a criticism, but rather an observation, which is to be expected and, I guess, necessarily so within any hierarchical organization. The creative mind thrives on chaos; the organizational mind on predictability and order. Either way, it’s the consecration part that matter most, isn’t it? Now off to lunch, not to be greeted by Kidney Pie, I pray.

This afternoon we enjoyed a reception in the Speakers apartment at the House of Parliament. We’re told that it is very rare for the British, let alone foreigners ever getting an opportunity to see this part of the house, located directly under Big Ben. The Speaker of the House greets us, my observation being that she is quite a powerful and forceful personality (The emphasis on “she”).

This was followed by the Welcome to the High Council at Westminster Central Hall, all seventy-four of us squished tightly together in order to fit on the platform, and seated according to protocol, of course. Doris was on my left and I got quite chummy with the person on my right (#26). Extremely uncomfortable!

The sound system was such that we couldn’t hear clearly from the back of the podium, sounding to me like everyone was speaking in a foreign tongue. Come to think of it, maybe they were. Attendance was a bit disappointing, the auditorium about two-thirds full. The ISB and ISS were impressive. Please take note that this comment comes from someone who is not a traditionalist, music wise. One final observation before concluding this writing: Either there was no air conditioning in the building or it wasn’t working. I’ll let the imagination take over from here.

It’s midnight before we get to bed, Doris getting three hours of sleep and I six (sort of). Oh, the glamor of it all!

JN

Note: Every High Council reinvents itself, but the above retrospective will give you a glimpse of what might transpire in the morning session tomorrow.

A High Council Retrospective: Day One!

Sitting on the 1999 High Council, I was inspired to keep a daily diary, which is foundational to an autobiographical piece presently in progress. I thought it might be timely to share edited parts of that diary. The first few days will be fleshed out a little more thoroughly than the mid to final days because I’m just in the beginning stages of this work. The working title is, “The Eras of My Way” (The word, “My,” will have a line through it and the word, “His,” handwritten above it). With this High Council as the centerpiece, I jump back and forth between eras, beginning with the 30’s, including snippets from the 1929 High Council. Anyway, here goes.

~Sunbury Court: Day One~

It feels surreal, sitting in The Salvation Army’s High Council Chambers, Sunbury Court, London, England, preparing for the election of a new General. In fact, I have to pinch myself from time to time to make sure it’s really me sitting here. Little did I know, at this moment, the historic-making drama that would play out over the following ten-days?

This 14^th High Council is already historic-making at its onset, the first where wives are now members, and rightfully so as full Commissioner’s. Heretofore it was (Mrs.) Commissioner, always an added appendage to her husband. Doris is sitting to my left, number 25 in order of protocol; the woman being promoted one day after her husband, not wanting to progress too quickly towards full amputation; it will come eventually, so for now, I am number 24. Sitting number 1 is always the Chief-of-the-Staff (2IC – second-in-command internationally), who in this instance is Commissioner Earl Maxwell. Sitting number 5, next to Commissioner Wilma Maxwell (number 2), is Commissioner John Gowans, his seating order predicated on time served as a Commissioner, not by appointment (Alternating numbers are seated on the opposite side). I mention these two men specifically because of their highly placed positions, protocol-wise, in the Council seating arrangement.  

Sitting here, I can’t help but momentarily ponder the historical significance of this place, sensing the spirit of High Council’s past, photos of each decorating the walls, where my own will subsequently be added. Can you believe it? With the addition of spouses, a new chamber had to be built in order to accommodate the increase in number, 75 to be exact, with one missing due to unrest and travel restrictions within his country.

Earlier this morning we had breakfast in the original chamber where all meals are now served. Fried tomatoes pushed aside, my mind drifted back to the crisis initiating that first High Council 70-years ago, and I can sense the human drama that must have explosively filled this room.

If walls could only talk… 

As Maxwell taps the welcoming gavel, I pinch myself yet once again. The High Council Chamber (“inner sanctum”), a place where 13 Generals have been elected, and voila! Here we sit. Unreal. Dreamlike. Surreal. “Ouch!” cried Doris, whom I also pinched to make sure it wasn’t just me.  

To complicate matters, we flew in yesterday from Los Angeles following a National Advisory Organizations Conference convening in Pasadena: 13 hours, 8 time zones, 3 crying babies and a spirits-induced snorer in the seat directly behind us. No, it wasn’t one of the other American Commissioners accompanying us on the same flight.

Having awakened fully at 3:00 a.m. this morning (5:00 p.m. California time, the previous day), jet lag has taken its toll, severely messing with the molecules holding this 61-year old aging body together.

Because of the increased size of the High Council, there were not enough rooms for everyone at Sunbury Court, so the Americans and a few others were billeted down the road at a hotel on the river Thames. An early morning walk along its banks was refreshing, resulting in a partial clearing of the jet lag cobwebs. Another pinch as our gaze wandered with wonder, “Doris, Can you believe this?” She said, “No, I can’t. And don’t you dare pinch me again!” Regrettably I did, as so noted above.

It was a beautiful spring day, flowers blooming and not a cloud in the sky as the limousine escorted us to Sunbury Court. In our imagination! It was a corps van, 10 amply built Commissioners cozily scrunched together for the brief journey. Ah, the wonder is beginning to wane.

Today is scheduled as a pre High Council Leadership Conference, the morning session led by The General and Commissioner Kay Rader, and except for the public welcome meeting, their only official involvement with the HC. What a thrill it was to watch and listen as they summarized accomplishments during 5 jam-packed-years of international leadership, humbly and carefully giving God all the Glory. In conclusion, they charge and challenge us to consider prayerfully the God-given responsibility that will be ours. I must confess to a holy chill running up and down my spine at that very moment.

In the afternoon session each of the International Secretaries spoke on issues that the incoming General would face in their zones, much of it focusing on financial concerns, especially in supported territories. This was followed by interesting, insightful and sometimes very lively discussion. A highly respected, wizened and seasoned, retired Commissioner, who was previously a very credible nominee for General, had earlier counseled me thusly: “During the HC, many potential candidates for General will talk themselves out of being nominated.” During these sessions, the meaning behind that heretofore-puzzling statement started to click. Gee whiz, I thought to myself, these guys are human after all. 

We were back to our rooms by 8:00 p.m., physically and mentally exhausted, and boy was I ready for a full nights sleep.

Note: This 2011 High Council is preceded by the General’s Consultative Counsel, which appears to be much longer in length as compared to our one day, pre-HG Leadership Conference. I must admit that my curiosity is peaked regarding the substance of what appears to be a very lengthy agenda.

JN

A Life and Ministry Changing, God-Sign Moment!

I’ve used this picture on several occassions. In fact, click on this link for one of my favorite quotes, this one by Martin Luther King, Jr.:

http://joenoland.blogspot.com/2010/11/pic-of-week-creative-extremists.html

Following is a chapter in a book I’m writing and gives perspective to what recently occurred in Tucson. It’s a continuation from a previous chapter and the Center referred to is Broadway Youth and Family Center, in Phoenix, Arizona, now being rebuilt as a Kroc Center. The holiday we celebrate today is a reminder that ‘Love Takes Courage!”

ARMS OPEN WIDE

Jefferson Airplane co-founder Paul Kantner said: "If you can remember anything about the sixties, you weren't really there," this because of the rampant drug use associated with the counter-culture of that era. It was a decade that spawned the counterculture/social revolution, anti-war movement (Viet Nam War), Civil Rights, Chicano Movement and New Left. Most notably, was the unprecedented number of assassinations occurring during this period:

1. Medger Evans, NAACP Field Secretary – June 12, 1963.
2. President John F. Kennedy – Nov. 22, 1963.
3. Malcolm X – Feb. 21, 1965.
4. Martin Luther King, Jr., April 4, 1968.
5. Senator Robert F. Kennedy – June 6, 1968.
6. Fred Hampton, Chairman, Illinois chapter of the Black Panther Party – Dec. 1969.

Doris and I were privileged to experience this period in the prime of life, menacing, yet challenging and exciting in many ways. These two soldiers were thrust head-first, ominously, providentially and promisingly, into the midst of it all, yes, to create “God-signs…” even in spite of ourselves.

The date was April 4, 1968. Construction on the center was well underway and programs in full swing throughout the community with “God-signs” making their appearance regularly. We were not received with open arms; the black community suspicious of these two light skinned Salvation Army officers invading their turf uninvited, and understandably so. This was the climate we were facing when, on that inauspicious day, MLK was assassinated setting off another round of riots across the country.

To our utter surprise, several days later we were invited to participate in a city-wide memorial service, organized by black community leaders, honoring the life of MLK. More surprisingly, I was asked to be part of the procession, the only white face in a long line of dignitaries marching down the aisle. This was one of those life and ministry-changing “God-sign” moments. We would never be the same after that! In fact, this theme rings forth in most of my writings, the following an excerpt from my book, No Limits Together:

“Fourth, I would like to broaden this issue to cover human rights in general. I use the term “human rights,” not in the political sense, but from a scriptural perspective. Jesus’ ministry was all about preparation and empowerment—of everyone. He was the quintessential champion of human rights. He didn’t distinguish between people, whether they were male or female, black or white, short or tall, Jew or Gentile, free or slave, tax collector or priest. The terms “women’s rights,” “black rights,” “short people’s rights,” “Gentile rights,” “slave rights,” or “etcetera rights” were not found in his vocabulary. His passion was for “human rights.” He came to get the human right and level a skewed playing field. Through his ministry we see that if the human is right, the world is right.

The picture I want to portray is an inclusive portrait of human rights. As a Salvation Army officer, I feel strongly that every human being should be treated with dignity, both inside and outside the Army. I want every human being to be treated with equality. I want every human being to be treated with respect. I want every human being to be treated with compassion. I want every human being to be given glowing opportunities. I want to speak out against oppression of any kind. I am passionately opposed to any denial of human rights. I don’t want any human being to be relegated to the margins.”

I’ve quoted from the following passage of Scripture many times and I do it again – Acts 10, Message paraphrase:

“Peter fairly exploded with his good news: ‘It’s God’s own truth, nothing could be plainer: God plays no favorites! It makes no difference who you are or where you’re from—if you want God and are ready to do as he says, the door is open.’”

Leadership is all about inclusiveness and empowerment. This truth was cemented during that life and ministry-changing “God-sign” moment. And arms were beginning to open wide because of it.

JN

A High Council Challenge: Think BIG!

Having sat on two High Councils I knew exactly what I was looking for in a General: A VISIONARY, pure and simple. And I can tell you from experience that they are few and far between, making the choice a difficult one. I wonder who the visionaries are in this High Council? Were I sitting there, this is who and what I would be looking for, one who can think BIG!

My first High Council was called to elect a successor to General Paul A. Rader, one of my heroes, and a visionary in the purest sense of the word. Perhaps that’s why he was selected to write the chapter on, “Vision,” in Hallmarks of the Salvation Army. I’m not sure if those presently sitting in the HC Chambers will be reading this post or not, although each desk is equipped with a connection to the Internet. If perchance one of you comes scrolling by, I invite you to take note of a few selected quotes from this Chapter. They begin with the following prophetic statement:

“Having a vision can be the difference between thriving and extinction.” This is followed by what I consider to be it’s seminal paragraph:

“As Max dePree observes of vision in the corporate setting, fragility is part of the nature of vision. There are no guarantees. The vision must be widely shared and translated into what Donald McGavran used to call ‘hard, bold plans.’ A compelling vision will have about it a measure of risk, the promise of change and a touch of the unattainable. Not everyone will welcome a disruption of the status quo. Some will resent the moving of the goal posts (No room here to elucidate on this ugly reality, past and, yes, even present for me personally). The visionary leader with his or her team will be required to live the vision—to celebrate it, to clarify it to affirm and reaffirm it, and to align policy and practice with it, if it is to maintain it’s motive power.”

Is there a risk-taker with “a touch of the attainable” sitting amongst you? Is that someone willing to move the goal posts and stand up to his/her critics and naysayers, some of them “on the team” in word but not in deed? Is that someone discerning enough to know the difference and make the ‘team’ adjustments necessary? And what about enough boldness to align policy and practice with the vision? Live, celebrate, clarify, affirm and reaffirm? We’re not talking about the ordinary leader here, and this brings us to the concluding paragraph of the Chapter:

“Overly ambitious? Perhaps. If God owns the vision, nothing is impossible. The vision God will bless issues from his heart. As veteran missionary to Korea, David Ross, observes, ‘Only those who know God’s heart are invited to know his plan for his people’. If so, then the urgent cry for visionary leadership in our time must first be for us all a serious call to intimacy with God.” Therein is the true meaning of visionary “teamwork.”

God grant you wisdom, inspiration and spiritual discernment in the nomination process. And for you non-HC members listening in, stay tuned for further personal observations from that 1999 HC. They will give you a sense of the chambers inner workings.

JN

To Heaven With Holiness!

I must say it. President Obama’s speech in Tucson was brilliant, made me proud to be an American. One commentator said, “He sounded more like a preacher than a politician.” Those were my sentiments exactly as I listened. In fact, it was pretty close to a holiness message in some parts. In fact, if I were still a corps officer/pastor, a video of his message would replace my own sermon this Sunday. I would feel comfortable doing so because the content of his message was (is) totally bipartisan. Interested? Here’s the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztbJmXQDIGA

Left, right, up, down, backwards, sideways, let us come together. After all, isn’t this what Jesus preached?

Here’s my own two-line summation:

To hell with hatred.

To heaven with holiness.

Hebrews 12:14: Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.

WITH EVERYONE!

JN

To Hell With Hatred!

Hatred is hell. The antithesis to hatred is holiness. Our memories are short. The incidence in Tucson several days ago, although sad and regretful, is but another hatred blip on life’s historical monitor; the holocaust perhaps being the mother of all blips, and occurring in my lifetime.

As usual, when these blips come, our focus is irrationally directed. The elixir for hatred cannot be found in gun control, the death penalty or anything else manmade, be it from the right, left or dead center. Wesley, Booth and others understood that the only elixir for hatred is holiness, period! “Elixir: a magical or medicinal potion: an elixir guaranteed to induce love.”

Nothing magical or medicinal about it, holiness is guaranteed Scripturally for all. Blogs, Facebook, Fox News, MSNBC, The War Cry, New Frontier, Priority, pulpit, wherever! This is where our elixir focus should be.

Proverbs 10:12: Hatred stirs up strife,
but love covers all offenses.

Hebrews 12:14: Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.

To hell with hatred!

JN