Salvationists in Kemptville, Ont., were rejoicing in November as the local Salvation Army corps held a praise party to celebrate its official re-opening. The event featured a time of worship, a special presentation by the youth and children’s ministry, and enrolments, as well as refreshments following the service. Leadership of the event was provided by Calvin and Erin Wong, pastors, Kemptville Church, with support from Lt-Colonel Sandra Rice, divisional commander, Ontario Central-East Division.

“Kemptville is a missional church where worship is the central act, celebrating the goodness of God with joy and thanksgiving,” says Erin Wong. “We practise genuine hospitality, and believe in cultivating the spiritual discipline of celebration, understanding that the way we behave toward one another is an integral indicator of our spiritual health.”

The Salvation Army originally “opened fire” in Kemptville in 1888. In the years following, various Army ministries thrived and, in 1981, rummage sales evolved into the opening of the town’s first Salvation Army thrift store. As the church experienced ups and downs, there was a decline in membership and, in 2002, a restructuring took place that involved closing the corps. The Army’s presence in Kemptville remained strong through community and family services, as well as the thrift store, which operated in the former corps building.

Today, the Army cares for local individuals and families through various ministries, including a food bank, cooking classes, income tax clinic, car repair ministry, emergency shelter, thrift store vouchers for emergency clothing and household items, and much more.

“With women’s, men’s, family, youth and children’s ministries, there is something for everyone at Kemptville Church,” says Wong. “Exciting times are ahead as we look forward to relocating both the church and the thrift store to larger facilities to accommodate growth. Praise and glory to God for what he has done!”