The Ontario Central East Divisional Youth Band went on a six-day tour of the greater Los Angeles area in December. This tour included marching in the famous Tournament of Roses Parade, which The Salvation Army has participated in continuously for more than 90 years.

On the first day of the tour, the band enjoyed a special opportunity to perform at Disneyland, which hosts up to 15 visiting bands on any given day. The following day, they gave a concert in Hollywood at the outdoor mall of Hollywood and Highland, the host location of the Academy Awards. Crowds gathered to listen to the music and enjoy their ministry.

The band were musical guests at Torrance Corps on Sunday, where band members gave their testimony and sang special music. Ontario Central East Divisional Youth Secretary Captain Stephen White, who accompanied the band on the tour, delivered the message.

That afternoon, the band participated in the Tournament of Roses Bandfest at Pasadena City College, and capped off the day with an evening of music and fellowship at Pasadena Tabernacle. Bill Flinn, Pasadena Tabernacle bandmaster and executive director of the Tournament of Roses, came to greet the band and presented bandmaster Robert Brown with an award for participating in the Tournament of Roses Parade.

On New Year's Day, the band's tour culminated with the Tournament of Roses Parade. When The Salvation Army band took centre stage at the start of the parade the crowd cheered in appreciation.

“My trip to the 2013 Rose Bowl Parade is will not be soon forgotten,” reflects Andrew Dolan, divisional youth band member. “While a great ministry to those in southern California, the trip was also a time of spiritual renewal and growth for all band members.”

Photo: The Ontario Central East Divisional Youth Band marches in the 2013 Tournament of Roses Parade