Love and Circumstance in Ketchikan
Last month former Salvation Army Officer, and current Territorial Risk Management Secretary for the USA Eastern Territory, Alastair Bate came to Alaska on his honeymoon. He and his bride, Anita, arrived in Ketchikan early on Friday, May 26, and took the opportunity to look around the beautiful town. After taking in Creek St (as everyone does!) they decided to enjoy the view from the Civic Center. It was a stunningly beautiful sunny and mild day after what they had heard was a - typical for Southeast - week of cold rain.
At one of the lookout areas up by the Civic Center they came across 3 people who they could see were probably homeless. Happy for the chance to speak with some local folk , they engaged the three in conversation - commenting on the weather. Alistair asked where they went when it was rainy, and they proudly told the newlyweds that they go to The Salvation Army.
This was astonishing and pleasant for the couple to hear, "Particularly as we were unaware of a Corps in town and we told them of our connection with the Army in New York." Alistair said. "We chatted with them for some time and I think they really appreciated someone taking an interest in them. They were thrilled to hear we were just married and congratulated us several times!"
An officer for 23 years, Alastair and Anita first met 30 years ago but ended up going in separate directions. Then over 3 years ago he ended up at THQ in the east where Anita was working. They reconnected and their relationship grew to the point where they decided to marry, which took place in May. It seemed fitting for their honeymoon, the start to a marriage decided by the seeming coincidences of God's plan, to accidentally lead them to an affirmation of their faith and of the work of The Salvation Army.
"We were so happy to run in to some folk who really appreciated the work of The Salvation Army in Ketchikan. They seemed so happy to meet us and the conversation we had with them was a highlight of our honeymoon. It was so encouraging to see the Army at work in this remote and beautiful part of Alaska.
"Anita and I felt the encounter was a God-appointed moment in the middle of our vacation and we hope we were able to encourage them as they did us."