Meriden Officers Promoted

Isael and Brenda Gonzalez Now Captains!

MERIDEN – Effective July 1, 2013, Salvation Army Meriden Corps Officers, Isael and Brenda Gonzalez were promoted to the rank of Captain. Promotions in The Salvation Army are based on length of service, character, efficiency, capacity for increased responsibility, and devotion to duty… and by now they have certainly earned their "second star."

Although Captains Isael and Brenda Gonzalez have only been stationed at the Meriden Corps, located at 23 St. Casimir Drive, since August of 2011, they are certainly no strangers to Connecticut and the Southern New England Division. They were previously stationed in Willimantic, which was their first assignment after completion of Officer Training School in July of 2008. Willimantic’s loss has since been Meriden’s gain! The Gonzalez’ have brought with them a sense of purpose and a high level of performance to the growing client needs throughout the Meriden community. As demand has increased, the officers have risen to the need and truly performed at an exemplary level.

Major David Champlin, Divisional Commander for The Salvation Army’s Southern New England Division, said, "We are proud of the efforts Captains Isael and Brenda have made at our Meriden Corps. The Salvation Army is blessed to have such dedicated officers serving God and the needs of people from the Greater Meriden community."

Michael Murdy, Meriden Advisory Board Chairman, remarked, "I have been working alongside Captains Isael and Brenda Gonzalez for a little more than two years now and I am impressed with their work ethic and drive. Though the tasks are sometimes large, they remain determined to keep moving forward, while making whatever adjustments they need to get there. They demonstrate care and concern for those they serve and minister to, and I know that they are making a difference in our community."

For some background on officer ranking, operations of The Salvation Army are supervised by trained, commissioned officers who proclaim the gospel and serve as administrators, teachers, social workers, counselors, youth leaders, and musicians. These men and women have dedicated their lives, skills, and service completely to God. As ordained ministers of the gospel, they are authorized to perform marriage ceremonies, funeral services, and infant dedications. They also provide counseling and consolation to the bereaved.

Candidates, to become officers, undergo an intensive two-year course in residence at Salvation Army colleges throughout the world. The curriculum combines theory and field practice, including Salvation Army doctrine, sociology and social work, psychology, Salvation Army regulations, homiletics, public speaking, Bible studies, church history, composition, community relations, business administration, accounting, and vocal and instrumental music. Salvation Army Officers must devote themselves full time to Army work.

After two successful years of training, these Cadets are commissioned as Lieutenants, ordained as ministers, and assigned to active duty, while continuing their education. Lieutenants are required to devote five years to additional studies before they become Captains. Other ranks include Major, Lieutenant Colonel, Colonel, and Commissioner. In terms of the highest possible rank, the international leader of The Salvation Army holds the rank of General and is selected by a high council of active-duty Commissioners and Territorial Commanders.