J*B Poffcast

Are the musical forces that we grew up with still relevant and effective in Salvation Army worship and service today?

We consider the vibrant ministry of musical forces at the Kokomo Citadel we grew up in (and were a part of). Should we continue to fight to keep those groups alive or should we capitulate to the Praise Band.? How do we invigorate or reinvent how those forces move forward today?

Are character building groups (Guards, Sunbeams, Adventure Corps) relevant to the mission of The Salvation Army?

We consider these programs as boys growing up in The Salvation Army, as corps officers and as soldiers today.
When you consider the scarce resources available to a Corps, is this a worthwhile investment of our time? Having served as a Divisional Youth Secretary, Bob has plenty to say on this subject. 

The Evolution and Impact of Junior Soldiers in the Salvation Army

Welcome to another episode of the J&B PoffCast! Join hosts Jon and Bob as they delve into the history and significance of the Junior Soldiers program within the Salvation Army. Originally designed to teach children about the Bible and the mission of the Salvation Army, this program aimed to prepare young minds for a lifetime of service and faith.
In this episode, Jon and Bob reflect on their personal experiences as Junior Soldiers, comparing the differences across generations and discussing the foundational role this program played in their spiritual development. They also explore the challenges and changes that have occurred over time, pondering the current state of the program and its relevance in today’s world.
Furthermore, the hosts examine the broader evangelistic efforts of the Salvation Army, touching on the importance of leadership in sustaining impactful programs. They share insights on various ministries, such as the Adult Rehabilitation Centers (ARCs) and Harbor Light programs, highlighting their crucial role in transforming lives and connecting individuals to the church.
Tune in for an engaging conversation about the past, present, and future of the Salvation Army’s youth programs, and the ongoing mission to reach and uplift communities through faith and service.

Cradle Roll and Church Engagement: From Infancy to Adulthood

Welcome to episode two of the J*B PoffCast, hosted by Jonathan and Bob. In this episode, they delve into the concept of the cradle roll and its significance in the church. Reflecting on their personal experiences, they discuss how their early introduction to church life shaped their upbringing and faith journey.
Jonathan and Bob explore the dedication of infants in the church, comparing it to other denominations' practices like baby baptism. They emphasize that these ceremonies are more about challenging parents to raise their children within the church community. They highlight the struggles and strategies of engaging young families in church amidst modern distractions like school activities and social media.
The hosts share their earliest childhood memories and how cradle roll events fostered a sense of community. They discuss the importance of intentional ministry and how the church can adapt to retain young families. They also touch on the generational shift and how the church can remain relevant to younger generations.
As the episode progresses, they recount successful outreach programs like Vacation Bible School and the importance of connecting new families to the church. They stress the need for intentional, cross-generational ministry to ensure the church's growth and relevance.
Join Jonathan and Bob as they provide insights and strategies for nurturing faith from infancy to adulthood, ensuring a vibrant and engaged church community.

The Corps Standard: Salvation Army Traditions and Modern Adaptations

Welcome to the new season of the J&B Poffcast! In this episode, Jay (Jonathan) and Bob dive into the history and evolution of growing up in the Salvation Army, with a particular focus on the concept of the "Corps Standard." What was it like to be a Boomer in the Salvation Army compared to a Gen Xer? How did the corps standard shape their experiences?
Jon recalls vivid memories of the corps standard document prominently displayed at the Salvation Army Corps in Kokomo, Indiana, outlining all the church services and activities. The duo explores the purpose of this standardization, its impact on the Corps' operations, and whether it was more of a control mechanism or a beneficial guideline.
The discussion also touches on the changing effectiveness of traditional practices like open-air meetings and how the corps standard provided stability amidst the frequent changes in leadership. Bob shares insights from his time as a Corps officer and divisional youth leader, reflecting on the challenges and opportunities of adhering to or deviating from the corps standard.
As the conversation progresses, Jon and Bob contemplate the pros and cons of applying a similar standardization to Salvation Army social services programs on a national scale. Could this improve grant writing, training, and overall effectiveness? They ponder the balance between creativity and standardization, aiming to find a middle ground that fosters innovation while maintaining essential services.
Join Jon and Bob in this thought-provoking episode as they reflect on the past, present, and future of the Salvation Army, sparking conversations that could lead to meaningful changes and improvements.