(Above) “Somebody once told me that the last place you’d ever want to be is the first place you will find The Salvation Army, helping, serving and working to restore dignity to the people that we help, on their terms,” says Andrew Moulton

Andrew Moulton is the divisional children, youth and young adult co-ordinator in the Prairies and Northern Territories Division. 

Tell us a little about yourself and your family.

I live in Winnipeg, where I was born and raised. Not unlike other proud Canadians, I grew up loving hockey (Go Jets go!). I enjoy creating videos, for fun and work, and I love Slurpees. I have a beautiful wife, Jenn, who works as a therapist, and four amazing children: Noella, Deacon, Oliver and Lucy.

My large extended family often poke fun at me for loving family traditions. A few favourites include trips to Clear Lake, Man., visits with relatives from British Columbia and Ontario, large get-togethers at my aunt and uncle’s home, and many Christmas traditions. 

Who has made the biggest impact on your faith?

I grew up as a member of The Salvation Army’s Heritage Park Temple. I attended Sunday school, sang all the catchy songs and became a junior and then a senior soldier. I have volunteered and worked for the Army in several different capacities.

Many people have made a profound impact on my faith journey. The first who come to mind are my parents. They’ve shown me what it means to live a life striving to be like Jesus, to love uncon - ditionally and to put myself in other people’s shoes, and what it means to hold tight to God when times are tough.

Others include my wife and best friend, who walks by my side and grows with me on this journey; my nana and papa, who always encourage me to use my gifts; my grandma and grandpa, who exemplified leadership and service; and too many others to name. 

How has God been faithful during a difficult time?

I think the lyrics from Goodness of God ring true for my journey thus far: “All my life you have been faithful. All my life you have been so, so good.” God has been there through the good times and the bad. Whether I have been calling out in happiness, anger, frustration or sadness, God has been steadfast in my life. When anxiety builds up or sorrow is taking hold, I like to close my eyes and spend a couple moments just picturing God, sitting with him, remembering Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” He always brings a sense of much-needed calm.

What are your patterns or habits for sustaining your relationship with God?

When I was little, I went to my grandma and grandpa’s house every morning before school. As I walked into their living room, my grandpa would be sitting on the end of the couch, reading his Bible, doing his devotions. This is something I will never forget. I try to do the same. I’m not yet as consistent as he was, but I’m working toward it. I also like to read Christian authors, listen to sermons, spend time in community with other believers and listen to Christian music.

What inspires you about the Army?

Before my current position, I spent time working with the Army’s correctional and justice services, an Army seniors’ home and Army thrift stores. I love The Salvation Army and the unique work that we get to do. Somebody once told me that the last place you’d ever want to be is the first place you will find The Salvation Army, helping, serving and working to restore dignity to the people that we help, on their terms. 

Where are you experiencing God at work in your life these days?

I absolutely love the work that I’m doing, and I experience God through it all the time. It is impossible to work with youth and not see the hands and face of God. The youth in The Salvation Army are truly a gift to be treasured. They are brilliant, curious, full of life and are pursuing Jesus. I learn so much from them, and they are going to do amazing things for God’s kingdom.

I also have the absolute privilege of watching my own children grow up, to see them learn, ask questions and experience God. There is beauty and so much to be learned in watching kids work out their faith.

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