Welcome to the USA East

by Colonel Richard Munn

As you read this article, the likelihood is high that you are more than familiar with the regular officer appointment and move process in our Salvation Army. At this very moment we are in the high season, so to speak. 

What is quite unusual, however, is an inter-territorial officer appointment across an ocean. Such has been our delight in recently welcoming to the USA East Majors Leanne and Martin Cordner, corps officers from the United Kingdom, as regional leaders for Delaware, based in Wilmington. The news got our attention, with an added layer of interest no doubt due to the international musical achievements and reputation for both Leanne and Martin. 

SAconnects took the chance to welcome the majors, and give you, our faithful readers, the story behind the story. 

God is already here: Our appointment from the UK to the USA 

Change is both exhilarating and daunting, yet when God calls, the path forward is filled with purpose. As we step into our new appointment as Delaware state coordinators in the PENDEL Division, we do so with a deep conviction: We are not here to bring God to Delaware, but to discover what He is already doing. This journey is not about initiating His work but about stepping into the ongoing story He has written long before our arrival.  

A lifelong commitment to officership 

Our journey as officers began in August 2000 when we stepped through the doors of William Booth College in London. Over the years, we have been privileged to minister as corps officers and Divisional Headquarters officers in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of God’s work in diverse communities. Each appointment has shaped us — sometimes in ways we never anticipated — but always in ways that built resilience and strengthened our calling. Along the way, God blessed us with two boys, Oliver and Zachary, who have been an important part of our faith journey. We have also been excited to observe what God is doing in their lives. 

Balancing ministry and music 

No one can dispute that the Army’s remarkable 160-year legacy of faith has been carried on the wings of music. It has been an integral part of our movement’s worship and witness. It has also played a vital role in our personal ministry, and while the demands of officership are significant, we have always believed that music complements our work rather than competes with it. Whether through leading worship, composing, or simply listening to music in the car, God’s gift of music deepens our connection to Him and expresses faith in ways that words sometimes cannot. Balancing both callings requires discipline and intentionality, but looking back, in every melody and every moment of service, we see God’s hand at work.  

The path to an uncommon appointment 

Historically, a UK officer appointment to the USA is rare, and naturally, many have asked how this opportunity came about. Truthfully, the journey here was marked by years of prayer, discernment, and an openness to God’s leading. The call to serve in this new context came unexpectedly, but as we leaned into it, we saw doors opening and a clear affirmation that this was where we needed to be. We felt at home from the moment we landed and believe we bring only what God has already given us. As the Old Testament prophet reminds us, we are not here to bring God to Delaware, but to discover and participate in the incredible work He is already accomplishing: “Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told” (Habakkuk 1:5, ESV).  

First impressions of a historic moment 

Arriving in the USA as it prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary is both an honor and a unique lens through which we experience this new chapter. Nationally, we have arrived at a time in the nation’s history where there is a “divided highway,” if we can borrow a road-related term. Along with all of you, we are working hard to ensure our programs are robust enough to protect those we serve. Culturally, we see both diversity and deep-rooted tradition, offering a rich tapestry in which our ministry will unfold. And within The Salvation Army, we sense the same commitment to service and mission that unites us across nations.   

Final thoughts 

Transitions come with challenges, but they also bring opportunities for growth and renewed purpose. As we settle into this new appointment, our prayer is to serve with humility, lead with faith, and continue to promote music as a bridge to inspire and uplift. Join us in prayer and anticipation as together we discover what God is doing in our communities. 

Thank you, Leanne and Martin, welcome aboard. You can count on this, the USA East and the SAconnects team is cheering you on.