LONGTIME LEADER OF SALVATION ARMY GIVES LAST SERMON

Church services were somber Sunday at the Salvation Army, evoking more tears than a typical funeral.

It was the going-away meeting for Majors Elmer and Sandra Trapp, who came to Cape Girardeau seven years ago. The pews were filled with their friends and converts, all sad to see the charismatic couple go.

A few were on the program to report on the progress of various church organizations. But they wanted to use their time thanking the Trapps.

Jackie Thieke, a secretary for the Salvation Army, spoke about changes in the women's group and how Sandra Trapp helped make meetings exciting.

Thieke stopped a moment, seeming to reflect on her memories, and burst into tears.

"I promised I wouldn't do this," she said as she received comforting hugs from the Trapps.

It was a scene that replayed itself throughout the day -- everyone wanted to hug or photograph the Trapps, who will move this week to Jefferson City with their daughters Jennifer, 18, and Julie, 15, for what may be the family's final assignment before Elmer Trapp retires at age 65.

They moved to Cape Girardeau from Hannibal in June 1988, revitalizing the Salvation Army here. The Tree of Lights campaign for the needy doubled in donations, and several new services to help children have been established.

Elmer Trapp also headed the drive to raise $1 million for a new Salvation Army building, with was completed last year in time for the annual Salvation Army Thanksgiving dinner for the needy.

"You never realize how much you were a part of people's lives until you leave," Elmer Trapp said, noting his six transfers since joining the Salvation Army in 1971.

Donnie Hanebrink referred to himself as a sinner before the Trapps helped him. He had attended other churches, but never received the information he thought important.

"I used to think women should be seen and not heard," Hanebrink said. "Now I believe in equality. They really helped me find the Lord."

He also mentioned a former frustrating job, which made him work odd hours and miss time with his wife and children.

Since being hired as a maintenance worker at the Salvation Army, Hanebrink believes he can be a good father again.

While the congregation was saddened at the Trapps' departure, they were encouraged that the couple likely will return after retirement.

"We find the people to be very friendly and very loving," Sandra Trapp said. "We enjoy this part of the country."

Capts. Robert and Joyce Ganthier and their four children will arrive in Cape Girardeau from Medina, Ohio, on Tuesday to replace the Trapps in the pulpit.