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Divisional Leaders
By Victor Pinzon –
Hundreds of friends, well-wishers and dignitaries shared in the celebration of worship as Majors Donald and Debora Bell officially became leaders of the Sierra del Mar Division.
Heavy rains brought on by El Niño did not dampen the spirit of gratitude and faith expressed through the music of the divisional band under the leadership of B/M Bob Gregg. A thunder of applause greeted the contemporary gospel music of Cornerstone, a teen group from the El Cajon Corps, led by Matt Madsen.
Major Douglas O’Brien introduced Commissioners David and Doreen Edwards, who called on the new leaders to join them at the altar before the traditional flags.
The installation ceremony concluded with the Bells holding hands and kneeling before a giant cross centered above the altar. The emotion and beauty of the ceremony was felt as the congregation sang, “My Life Must Be Christ’s Broken Bread.” Majors Don and Debi Bell then prayed specifically for the staff and officers of the division.
Former San Diego Metropolitan Advisory Board Chairman Barbara Hunsaker, who served in that position when the Bells were leaders in the San Diego County Command, joined Captain Guy Hawk of the Riverside Corps in welcoming the new leaders. The Bells then presented two separate perspectives on their vision relating to God’s calling them to serve in their new assignments.
Looking to the future, Bell sees the Lord working throughout the division enhancing the growth of corps and programs, and greater opportunities for service. The visioning process will be a great tool for each corps to evaluate where they stand in the Lord and where God will direct in the future. There is a great need, and God is equipping the faithful to meet that need.
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