BIO: Verna grew up in Carnegie, Pennsylvania. She accepted Christ at the age of 13, and soon felt God's leading to full time ministry. After graduating from Bradford Business School in Pittsburgh, her sister asked her to join her working at The Salvation Army Divisional Headquarters in Pittsburgh. Soon she was involved in The Salvation Army She did, and soon God revealed that it was through The Salvation Army that she was to give full time ministry. Verna entered The Salvation Army School for Officer Training in 1979, and was ordained and commissioned in 1981 in the God's Soldier Session, with her first appointment being Williamantic, Connecticut. She served for 5 1/2 years in various appointments in the Southern New England Division, then was transferred to Greater New York, with assignements in Yonkers and Astoria, then a short stint in Western Pennsylvania at the Braddock Corps, and now, since 2000, the Greater New York Division again, at the Beacon Corps. Verna's passion is to bring people into a personal relationship with Christ helping them to grow in their walk with Him. Whether that be leading a Bible Study, praying with someone, leading in praise and worship, preaching a sermon, doing Drama with young people, puppetry, or cooking and serving food in the soup kitchen. She also desires to continue to grow in her own walk with Christ, and to be an example to those whom she pastors.
Patti O`Dell Emergency Service Worker/Receptionist 845-831-1253 ext 300
BIO: Patti has a heart for helping those in need. She is a great listener, with a wealth of knowledge of services in the Southern Dutchess area. Those who come to Patti in need are able to share their needs in a comfortable atmosphere and Patti is able to help not only with concrete services The Salvation Army can provide, but guide them to other community based organizations that can also assit them in their needs.
Patti is proud to be a mother of three grown children who are now OUT ON THEIR OWN, although during various times of the year they 'rebound' home!
Tarius Williamson Maintenance Staff 831-1253
BIO: Tarius began working for The Beacon Corps while still a teen, and has also worked in a number of areas. A willing learner, he has many skills that he continues to 'build' on! He is only a few credits away from his Archeteicht degree, and has used his training in many ways in his employ with The Salvation Army.
