Young people of the Canada and Bermuda Territory are again privileged to participate in the world-renowned Pasadena Rose Parade in California on January 2, 2012. Watched by millions in the U.S. and Canada—live and on TV—the 10 Canadian musicians aged between 16 and 26 will march as part of The Salvation Army Tournament of Roses band. The ensemble also includes Southern California marchers and the Household Troops Band from the United Kingdom—this year's guest band.

“I'm excited to be able to share with others the music of The Salvation Army in praise to God,” says Nygel Washington-Purser, Meadowlands Corps. “I'm also excited that there will be so many others there to meet and fellowship with from around the U.S. and Canada.”

Representing The Salvation Army's Canada and Bermuda Territory in 2012 are:

• Oshawa Temple, Ont.: David Reid, 1st cornet and Victoria Burditt, 2nd cornet;


• Calgary's Glenmore Temple: Mariah Atkinson, euphonium and Elizabeth Robinson, 1st alto horn;


• Corner Brook Temple, N.L.: Jessica Butt, solo cornet;


• Woodstock Corps, Ont.: Gregory Jolly, 1st cornet;


• Hamilton's Meadowlands Corps, Ont.: Zachary Casey, 1st cornet, Katie Stevens, 2nd cornet and Nygel Washington-Purser, 2nd tenor horn; and


• Winnipeg's Heritage Park Temple: Jonathan Bagshaw, Bb tuba.

Bagshaw will be marching in the parade for the fifth time. “The Salvation Army's participation in the Rose Parade is a way to witness to the world through our music, making a stand for Jesus in the midst of everything else happening along the parade route,” he says.

Opportunities for Young People

“Our youth are at the top of our priority list here at Glenmore Temple,” says Major Eddie Vincent, corps officer. “It is important for us to invest in their growth and development, and this is one way we can support them in their Christian ministry and service.”

Both girls representing Glenmore Temple are enthusiastic about the opportunity to march in the Rose Parade.

“I can't wait to represent my corps,” says Atkinson. “I'm looking forward to seeing all the floats and the roses everywhere.”

“I am excited about meeting other Salvationists and developing new connections and friendships through music,” adds Robinson.

The participants acknowledge the potentially arduous walk involved in the parade—the route is nearly nine kilometers (five-and-a-half miles)—however many express that this is simply part of the event's appeal.

“I anticipate the parade will be a lot of fun,” says Burditt. “It will benefit my spiritual growth and is a great way for others to experience God through The Salvation Army's music.”

“It will be a learning experience for the young people,” acknowledges Major Robert Reid, corps officer, Oshawa Temple, “it will broaden their understanding and appreciation for The Salvation Army and its ministries in another country.”

The young people are also eager to meet Salvationists with similar interests.

“The Rose Parade is an opportunity to meet other Christians from around the globe who enjoy playing music for the Lord, just like me,” says Stevens. “It is an excellent opportunity to bring others closer to Christ through music.”

The 123rd Rose Parade will be the 91st year of participation for The Salvation Army Tournament of Roses Band, contributing to many memories for Salvationists of all ages.

“I've been playing cornet in various bands for about 10 years and I am always looking to participate in different events,” says Butt. “I've heard about this experience from a few of my friends at my home corps and can't wait to be a part it.”

This year's theme, “Just Imagine…” is particularly fitting for Casey's feelings about the parade.

“I have sat and watched the Rose Parade from the side of the road a few times,” the 16-year-old shares, “and to think that I will be marching in that same parade and representing The Salvation Army is unimaginable.”