When the Salvation Army began, it primarily consisted of missionaries moving constantly from town to town. As a result, a rule was instituted saying that Salvation Army "officers" could only marry fellow "Officers" - and only then with approval of their headquarters. The thinking behind the rule was that the work was so difficult that the marriage wouldn't survive unless both parties were committed to the Army.
Despite the fact that it's 2008, not 1865, this rule still remains in effect.
Johnny Harsh has led the Salvation Army in Oshkosh for the past three years. Last June, his wife Yalanda unexpectedly passed away. He has fallen in love with another woman and plans to marry in June.
Unlike his deceased wife however, his fiancee is not affiliated with the Salvation Army. As a result, Harsh has been suspended from his job and expects to be terminated.
Later today, we'll discuss whether this is an archaic rule which makes no sense in today's day and age - or whether the policy of the Salvation Army makes sense given it's unique mission?
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