by Heather Montenegro
If I had to sum up my lieutenant years in one word, it would be: chickens.
Yes, chickens! One day, a farmer walked into the corps and asked if we wanted some chicken. Running a daily feeding program always in need of food, I quickly answered, “Yes,” expecting neatly packaged chicken breasts ready to be cooked. Imagine my shock when I walked in the next day to the sound of live chickens clucking in the warehouse!
Seizing this unexpected “blessing,” I turned it into a women’s ministries opportunity. I watched in amazement as the older women of our corps, many of whom had grown up on farms, joyfully taught our corps’ teens the art of butchering, cleaning and cooking fresh chickens. Ministry can bring unexpected blessings when you’re willing to embrace the crazy.
My captain years can be summed up in two words: medical emergencies.
During my six years as the health officer at the College for Officer Training, I spent countless hours in ERs and doctors’ offices with cadets from all over our territory. These moments were often filled with anxiety as they awaited medical results or sought relief from pain.
While the downtown Chicago ER isn’t exactly a fun or comfortable place, some of my most meaningful moments came from simply sitting, listening, and connecting with cadets during these trying times. Ministry can bring sacred moments when you’re willing to sit in the uncomfortable.
My first years as a major can be summed up in one word: fire.
During this time, I faced a series of unexpected challenges in both my work and personal life that required me to adapt and pivot repeatedly. These difficulties, though trying, became opportunities for growth and transformation. Through it all, God was at work, refining me in ways I could not fully see at the time.
Now that life has stabilized, I can look back and recognize how much I’ve grown as a leader, a mother, a friend, and a child of God. Ministry can bring refining when you’re willing to walk through the flames.
Reflecting on my journey, I’ve come to realize that ministry is a series of seasons, each bringing its own unique challenges and blessings. Through it all, I’ve learned that ministry isn’t about having all the answers or always being prepared—it’s about being faithful, flexible and willing to let God work through the unexpected.
Each season has reminded me that, no matter how crazy, uncomfortable or challenging, God’s purpose is always at work, transforming us and those we serve.
To learn about becoming an officer, visit salarmycentral.org/candidates
