Divisional Spotlight: Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands

by Colonel Richard Munn

Every USA East command is special, but it can be said that one division literally stands out from the rest: the Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands Division (PRVI), a Caribbean jewel and a four-hour flight from New York City. What a division! It’s the youngest of the 13 commands, and certainly the one with the most sunshine. Beloved by residents and international tourists alike, Puerto Rico is celebrated for gorgeous beaches, El Yunque National Forest, historic Old San Juan, and iconic El Morro. New York City and Puerto Rico have a long and strong demographic connection, so it seems only natural to share a territory. And let us not ever forget to include St. Croix and St. Thomas, neighboring islands where the Army mission faithfully resides. 

The territorial footprint in the Caribbean brings beauty, vibrancy, diversity, and spice into our family, and we are all better off as a result. This small, joyful division has an outsize impact that cannot be overestimated in terms of soldiery, candidates, officers, music, and spiritual vitality. Like flour kneaded with yeast, the effect is vigorous and life-generating.  

With corps dotted throughout Puerto Rico, congregational life here is renowned for deep spirituality, contagious singing, ready prayer meetings, and multigenerational family life, with those exact qualities simultaneously impacting the broader territory. Additionally, Emergency Disaster Services, the Adult Rehabilitation Center, and the Kroc Center serve with characteristic diligence and effectiveness. 

Steering this unique command is Divisional Commander Major Bersabé Vera-Hernandez. SAconnects landed into her world for a one-on-one interview, to get you, our faithful readers, the story behind the story.  

What are your divisional statistics: number of corps, senior and junior soldiers, officers, employees? 

  • 13 corps  
  • 197 junior soldiers  
  • 972 senior soldiers  
  • 393 adherents  
  • 87 employees  
  • 33 officers  

Click to view full breakdown of the Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands Division.

How would you describe the personality of your division? 

We are a joyful, vibrant, and committed division. Everywhere we show up, we bring excitement. We love God, our church, and its mission! We are a small division but mighty in passion. 

What is the geographic and cultural terrain of the division? 

Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are Caribbean islands. We have 11 corps in Puerto Rico and two corps in the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas and St. Croix. We are 1,600 miles away from New York and still part of the Eastern Territory. Puerto Rico is the larger island with the biggest population. There is one ARC in Puerto Rico. Each island has a unique history and culture. English is the primary spoken language in the Virgin Islands, and Spanish in Puerto Rico. And, I must add, it is always 85 degrees no matter the time of the year! 

What especially notable expressions of ministry exist within the command? 

In addition to the foundational service and presence of our local corps communities of faith, the ministry of music and arts intentionally involves the families of every student that walks through our doors with the rest of the programs in those corps. It is very rewarding and fruitful. 

Another vital expression of ministry is the work we do through our Emergency Disaster Services, as we face a storm or hurricane almost every fall. It is incredible to see The Salvation Army’s presence around the entire island whether it be providing a hot meal or bringing hope to those affected by the winds, rain, or fire at any given moment. 

What brings you the greatest joy? 

The spirit of every soldier and friend of the Army who is always ready to serve and the spirit they have to lift the name of the Lord high during hard times brings me great joy. Also the desire of our officers to serve those without hope and their willingness to disciple them.  

What is God up to in the division these days? 

The Lord is working in the hearts of every Salvationist in our islands. Our soldiers have the desire to work together with their officers to build the Kingdom of God and expand the ministry of The Salvation Army. 

Any final insights or thoughts for our readers? 

As a new leader coming to the islands, it takes my breath away to see the raw love and passion that people have in their commitment to the Lord. There is a Salvationism that is contagious. I have a great opportunity to continue this legacy and pass it on to the new generations. 

Thank you, Bersabé — how we all delight at the pulsating presence of the command. The USA Eastern Territory would be noticeably duller without the sparkle of the Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands Division. You can count on our commitment and support. ¡Wepa!