Divisional Spotlight: Southwest Ohio and Northeast Kentucky
by Colonel Richard Munn
Holding the line on both the western and southern fronts of the USA Eastern Territory is the uniquely positioned Southwest Ohio and Northeast Kentucky Division, aka the SWONEKY Division. Here we begin entering the American heartland, with Bible Belt values formed by Appalachian culture — family, church, personal industry, neighborliness, and hospitality.
The region is dominated by the mighty Ohio River and imposing Cincinnati, complemented by the softening shades of Kentucky bluegrass and down-home small-town kindness. College and high school football, marching bands, and cheerleading squads rule on the weekends, and don’t forget Skyline Chili afterward.
The Salvation Army is deeply part of this culture, renowned for family corps, straight-talking Bible preaching, and hearty chorus singing. Stand before the division and simply shout out “GO!” and guaranteed the whole gathering will respond, “SWONEKY!” Or lead the final song after a weekend of family camp meetings, and don’t be surprised when people start standing on their chairs. It’s a tradition. Fun.
Maybe the symbolic heart of the division is beloved Camp SWONEKY, and in particular Chamberlain Hall, where everyone meets, bands practice, and timbrels wave, a place of warm worship. Here is also where the territory borders Asbury University and Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Ky., site of long-standing Salvationist student populations, officer continuing education, and the impactful Salvation Army Student Fellowship.
In the center of super SWONEKY life — leading, motivating, and cajoling — are Majors Scott and Susan Kelly, divisional leaders. SAconnects swooped into SWONEKY for a special session, 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?
- 28 corps
- 42 service units
- 2,121 senior soldiers
- 671 junior soldiers
- 65 active officers
- 356 employees
Click to view full breakdown of the Southwest Ohio and Northeast Kentucky Division.
How would you describe the personality of your division?
SWONEKians are a courageous light in a darkened world, shining brightly even in the heart of the Bible Belt, where much light already abounds. In many of our towns with just 20,000 people, nearly 50 churches stand as beacons of faith. Yet, The Salvation Army stands uniquely positioned to offer what only it can — walking alongside communities in their challenges and needs, driven by the love of Jesus Christ and a life grounded in the gospel. Amid the poverty The Salvation Army continues to fight the good fight, bringing hope where it is needed most.
What is the geographic and cultural terrain of the division?
Our division stretches from the far western edge of Ohio to the Appalachian Mountains in the southeast, with vast cornfields painting the landscape. To the south lies the rolling Bluegrass horse country of Lexington, Ky. We are blessed with breathtaking parks, farmlands, caverns, forests, and rivers that reflect the beauty and richness of our region.
The cultural heritage of our region is largely rooted in German and Appalachian traditions, with vibrant African American communities adding to its richness. This blend has shaped towns that celebrate a variety of festivals, cuisines, and music, reflecting the diversity of the people who call this landscape home. In recent years, we are seeing growing opportunities to serve new communities, including Spanish, Swahili, and Creole-speaking populations, expanding the reach of our ministries.
What especially notable expressions of ministry exist within the command?
Expressions of mission-driven ministry are evident throughout the SWONEKY Division, as our officers, soldiers, employees, and volunteers faithfully work to transform the lives of those entrusted to our care. Amid the sweltering heat and humidity of summer, our corps delivered strong and impactful summer feeding and meal programs. Many of our team members also took to the streets through other outreach initiatives, providing essential support to those in need.
We are blessed with a strong and expanding Pathway of Hope ministry, where we are actively helping 82 households break the cycle of generational poverty.
Through our Anti–Human Trafficking ministries in Columbus and Cincinnati, we have witnessed remarkable transformations in the lives of survivors. Equally important, we are committed to bridging social ministry participants into congregational life. A notable example is the ongoing ministry at Cincinnati Center Hill Corps, where residents of the Booth and Catherine Booth Residences have become active members of the congregation.
We cannot speak of our division without celebrating our youth. Programs such as Youth Bible Studies have grown in attendance and frequency, fostering a love for God’s Word. Additionally, the monthly Young Adults Night at Dayton Kroc provides an inspiring space for discipleship and spiritual growth. We rejoice in the hunger for God’s Word and the opportunities to nurture faith across all generations.
What brings you the greatest joy?
While there is much to be thankful for in this division, the greatest joy comes in the times we gather together for divisional gatherings to see the genuine love that is shown for each other. People love to get together and enjoy one another in SWONEKY. Those times truly feel like family gatherings. And the boisterous worship that happens in those settings is inspiring. It doesn’t matter if it’s young people or adults, the wholehearted engagement of our people worshiping together, singing from the depths of their hearts and souls, is a fantastic experience.
What is God up to in the division these days?
There is a clear intentionality to move outreach and discipleship forward. A variety of programs are being offered to connect with youth, including cooking classes, gaming, art, music, and fitness activities. For adults, online discipleship classes have been provided, and Lay Leadership Training is scheduled at Camp SWONEKY.
We have also welcomed a new divisional EDS director to strengthen our ministry of preparedness. Through training, partnerships, readiness, and a ministry of presence in times of great need, this role will help empower our division. Most recently, the Marion Corps received its first Emergency Disaster Services canteen. Beyond relief, the canteen will also serve as a hub for community connection through local events and the support of skilled volunteers.
Any final insights or thoughts for our readers?
SWONEKY is a wonderfully blessed place to be. The rich diversity of cultures across this division is often surprising to people. The pace of life is a little calmer than other portions of the Eastern Territory, but the Spirit of God is alive and well and living in our people.
How can we all pray for the division?
We ask for wisdom in identifying local leaders, nurturing their growth, and equipping them so their contributions may strengthen and uplift the corps. As these leaders rise, we also pray for our officers — that they may embrace the heart of the mission and carry out the vision entrusted to them, leading with compassion and conviction.
Together with officers, we lift up our soldiers, asking that they remain deeply rooted in the gospel. Flowing from their witness, we pray that evangelistic efforts may be ignited through meaningful relationships, so that the joyful movement of Salvationists is felt as they share Christ’s love with those around them.
Finally, we ask that officers, soldiers, employees, volunteers, and donors unite in a shared vision to serve faithfully, collaborate boldly, and plan wisely — ensuring the continued growth and lasting impact of our mission.
Thank you, Scott and Sue — how we celebrate the clear warmth and vibrancy of the command. In more ways than one, SWONEKY is a bulwark for the territory. You can count on our hearty support as you "Go Swoneky!" An army is standing on our chairs and cheering you on.
