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Fired for Marriage
Johnny Harsh lost his wife to a sudden heart attack last June. After this devastating loss, he met and fell in love with Cia. They plan to get married in June.
What’s the problem, you might ask. The Salvation Army rules state that an officer can only marry within the organization. Johnny’s current fiancée does not fit this description.
Because he is in love with a person outside the fold, he will be dismissed from his post. He hopes the organization would change the rule, but a spokesperson for the Salvation Army says the rules are the same all over the world.
He was well aware of the rule, so the last story I found said that he was leaving his post. I’m happy for Mr. Harsh finding someone to share his life with, but saddened that he has to leave his calling. At the same time, he was aware of the law and made his own choice.
Type your comment here.
The Salvation Army is not at fault here. Salvation Army officers (ministers) agree to Salvation Army policies and practices. They are sworn to obey the organization’s policies. Captain Harsh chose not to follow those policies and it has resulted in disciplinary action. The letter from The Salvation Army being circulated on the Internet offers good reasons for his termination. He may blame The Salvation Army, but the fault must fall at his feet. There are many widowed officers continuing to serve in the organization dedicated to serving people as it has since 1865. I will always support The Salvation Army as I always have because it stands by its principles. People may not like to think about it, but Johhny Harsh went about this whole matter in the wrong way. He also did not discuss the additional matters leading to his dismissal. He is in the wrong, not The Salvation Army. I believe The Salvation Army has done the honorable thing in this case.