Called to Care: The Ongoing Ministry of Three Devoted Officers
For most, retirement is a time to slow down. But for three retired Salvation Army officers in Rockford, Illinois, it’s become a new chapter of ministry—a chapter filled with purpose, presence, and quiet compassion.
Major Mary Hunt, Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Sjogren, and Colonel Tom Lewis make up the Rockford Salvation Army Pastoral Care Team—a faithful trio quietly serving some of the most vulnerable members of the community. Though officially retired, they’ve redefined what that word means. Instead of stepping away, they’ve stepped up—offering spiritual care, emotional support, and a steady reminder that no one is forgotten.
Their ministry happens behind the scenes, far from the spotlight. In hospital waiting rooms, assisted living lounges, and quiet homes where a knock on the door can mean everything, their mission remains simple: to show up, to listen, to pray, and to care.
Each week, Lt. Col. Daniel Sjogren makes nearly 20 home visits, checking in on elderly individuals who are homebound and often isolated. These visits often include scripture readings, prayer, news from their local Corps, and much-needed conversation. “Ninety percent of the time, the person will say, ‘I was hoping someone would come,’” he shared.
His care extends beyond spiritual comfort. Sometimes, he lends a hand with everyday needs—helping someone find misplaced paperwork or assisting them out of a chair. On one visit, he discovered a woman who had fallen the night before and was still lying on the kitchen floor. He quickly coordinated emergency services and stayed with her until help arrived.
Colonel Tom Lewis makes between 30 and 40 visits each month. He often shows up unannounced just to brighten someone’s day. His ministry isn’t about offering answers—it’s about providing presence. “They’re not always looking for answers,” he said. “They’re looking for someone to listen.” Each visit is as much a blessing for him as it is for those he sees. “I gain as much as they do,” he added.
Meanwhile, Major Mary Hunt is frequently seen at local area hospitals. When a Rockford Corps member ends up in the ER, Major Hunt is usually not far behind. Recognized by staff in her Salvation Army uniform, she’s frequently waved straight into the room, where she sits in prayer and support alongside patients and their families.
Beyond the hospital walls, Major Hunt also frequently visits assisted living facilities. She brings small tokens of care—a favorite scone, a warm muffin, a ride to the doctor, or a lunch date. “It’s good for them to get out of the house and be around people,” she shared.
Their work isn’t without heartache. All three officers shared that one of the hardest parts of their ministry is discovering someone has passed away before they could make their next visit. Yet, even in sorrow, they find comfort in knowing those individuals were seen and loved. “It’s important they know they are thought of and not forgotten,” stated Lt. Colonel Sjogren.
Beyond individual visits, the team also participates in community outreach events, such as the Salvation Army Holiday Toy Distribution. While parents wait to pick up Christmas gifts for their children, the officers offer prayer, conversation, and encouragement. Their hope is that families leave not just with toys, but with renewed hope and the knowledge that their community is lifting them up in prayer.
In addition, Lt. Colonel Sjogren makes regular trips to the Rockton/Roscoe area. He delivers boxes of bread and produce to dozens of local families in need. It’s another quiet act of service that speaks volumes. “I’m trying to fulfill the need that is coming to me,” he said.
These three officers may have retired from their formal posts, but they’ve never stopped serving. Their visits may not come with fanfare—but to those they serve, they arrive like grace on the doorstep.
Their stories are reminders that ministry isn’t always loud or dramatic. Sometimes, it’s a hand held in a hospital room, a prayer whispered in a quiet home, or a muffin shared in fellowship. Through every visit, these three dedicated servants are sharing a message the world desperately needs to hear: You are loved and not forgotten.
Because love shows up—and so do they.
Thank you to the Rockford Pastoral Care Team for your unwavering service, your compassionate hearts, and your continued ministry.
