Behind the Shield: Major Beverly Gates
Major Beverly Gates is currently located at The Salvation Army of Wisconsin & Upper Michigan as the Divisional Secretary for Milwaukee Area Command. The Salvation Army of Milwaukee County is proud to have her as an officer and leader in our community. Learn more about Major Gates below.
how did you first learn about the salvation army?
I was taken to The Salvation Army by my parents from birth. I am a third generation Salvationist. My family first learned about The Salvation Army when my mother was very young. Her mother died when she was 3 and her father died when she was 5. Although she had older siblings, they could not keep the family together and she was adopted by my grandparents. One of the stipulations of the adoption was that they had to go to church. The Salvation Army was the old, stone church on the corner and my grandmother started to attend. That one encounter has had a significant impact upon generations since. I am one of 10 children - 4 are Salvation Army officers, 2 are employees with The Salvation Army, and a nephew is also an officer.
What made you want to become an officer?
I received Christ as my Savior at the age of 19. Through growth in my relationship with Him, I felt an inner tug at my heart to be a Salvation Army Officer. It was not something that I had even considered, and resisted the calling that God was placing on my life. Through a series of events, I finally said yes and felt the inner peace that this was God's will for my life. Obedience to God's leading and working in my life is what led me to become an officer.
What is your favorite part about being an officer at tsa?
The best part of officership is the ability to help others and to share the message of Jesus.
what has been your favorite experience with tsa?
Using God's gift of administration to help other's work towards financial stability, which in turn opened the door for more effective ministry opportunities to those we serve.
What is one thing you believe the world should know about tsa?
Everyone is welcome.
What are a few words you'd use to describe tsa?
Caring, Supportive, Present
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I have been a minister with The Salvation Army for 40 years and the people I have met and the opportunities and experiences I have had have enriched my life. I am grateful for God's call upon my life.