Salvation Army captains aim to help people grow in faith

The Salvation Army in Cape Girardeau in June said goodbye to longtime leaders, Majors Ben and Beth Stillwell. With their move, Cape Girardeau welcomed Captains Ronnie and Bridgette Amick. The couple previously lived in Moline, Ill.

In this week's Ministry Focus, Ronnie Amick shares the couple's goals for the ministry in this area and how people can become involved.

Q: Tell us a little about the two of you.

A: Once upon a time there was this little boy who grew up in Illinois and this little girl who grew up in Iowa. Finally they met each other, fell in love and were married in August of 2003.

They moved to Cape Girardeau in the summer of 2013. Their calling is to bring the message of Jesus Christ to the city of Cape Girardeau and surrounding communities in a fresh and relevant way. Their passion is to reach those far from God, build the church and change the world. Sharing a heart to make a difference in the world around them, together they strive to live each day to the fullest, never forgetting what Christ did for them on the cross. The Salvation Army and its mission -- "to preach the gospel and meet human needs without discrimination" -- is something we take very seriously and endeavor to live out through Christ every day.

Ronnie and Bridgette have two amazing boys, Zayden and Beckam, and baby Ryker will join them in November of 2013. While they love spending time at home with their family, they truly enjoy their church family. They love Diet Coke, coffee, motorcycles and are excited about what God is doing in this city. From pastoring and parenting to leading and loving -- this God-loving couple are determined to make the name of Jesus known to all who come in contact with them.

Q: How long have you been members of your faith?

A: Both of us have been raised in The Salvation Army. We love everything about it and look forward to more.

Q: What's the greatest blessing you've experienced in the ministry?

A: Seeing people come to the saving grace of God, and being part of a much bigger family. The Salvation Army is active in 126 countries.

Q: Who or what inspired you to join the ministry? In particular, how did you get involved with the Salvation Army?

A: Being raised in The Salvation Army, you grow up with its activities, programs and ministries. We both believe we have had people influence us in our calling to ministry through the Salvation Army. However, more importantly we are called together to be ministers of the Gospel. We thank God for all the people he placed in our life to guide us in this calling.

Q: What's your favorite Bible verse and why?

A: Ronnie: 1 Peter 4:10, because we all have gifts that can be used to further the kingdom.

A: Bridgette: Phil. 4:13, because over the last couple of years I have been through a lot and this verse has been a cornerstone.

Q: What do you hope to see in the future for the Salvation Army?

A: We hope the current and new generations find salvation and march forward to win the world and their communities for God.

Q: Specifically, what would you like to see the ministry do in this area?

A: We would love to see people and our community developed. We are no longer satisfied with just helping people; we need to help develop them to move forward.

Q: What upcoming events or sermon series do you have scheduled at the church?

A: Kettle campaign kickoff Nov. 20 at 5:30 p.m. at Wehrenberg Theater. Nov. 21: Kettle campaign begins, and Coats for Kids drive at Schnucks.

Nov. 25 through Nov. 27: Turkey Drive at Schnucks. Advent series begins Dec. 1. Check out tsacapegirardeau.org for more information and updates.

Q: How can people get involved in the Salvation Army's ministries?

A: By contacting our office at 335-7000, but, more importantly, pray for us.

Q: In your time in the ministry, what's been the biggest lesson learned and affected you the most in your faith in God?

A: Learning to say "bye" to loved ones, and still moving forward with your ministry.

lpresson@semissourian.com

388-3649

Pertinent address: 701 Good Hope St, Cape Girardeau, MO