Major Jason Swain is the new corps officer at the Northeast Kentucky Corps in Ashland, KY. He served for over 10 years as a corps officer before being appointed to various divisional staff responsibilities. He served for two years at the Evangeline Booth College in Atlanta, GA before joining The War Cry staff at National Headquarters in 2018.

1. How did you meet The Salvation Army?

I was 14, and my best friend invited me to attend a dinner at his church, then spend the night. It was expected that I would attend Sunday School with the family the next day. That church was The Salvation Army.

2. How do you deal with change and conflict?

It depends on the change or conflict. Some change is good, and I welcome it if it furthers the mission or the way we do business. But change also can bring on conflict, which necessitates further change, so it’s a circular argument.

3. What is one challenge that you see for The Salvation Army?

Adapting our methods without losing our mission or our message. We must keep the Gospel message to the front so we don’t lose distinctiveness.

4. Who has made the biggest impact on you and your career?

Lt. Colonel Mark Bell, who was the first to suggest that I could be called to be an officer. Major Rob Webb has always been a good friend and instructor and Lt. Colonel Allen Satterlee saw some potential in my writing and suggested I join The War Cry staff.

5. What are you currently reading?

I’m always reading multiple books at one time. Right now, I am reading about George Washington’s changing view of slavery, and I’m listening to an audiobook about the French & Indian War.

6. How do you handle negativity?

To be honest, not very well. I take comments (online) very much to heart and very personally. I don’t post too often anymore to social media because of that.

7. What are your favorite hobbies or activities?

I love volunteering at Mount Vernon. I also enjoy going to museums, battlefields, and historic places. I’m also trying my hand at period sewing and creating 18th century clothing.

8. What are two of your greatest strengths?

I’m a good listener. I believe I have a pretty sympathetic ear. I’m also a pretty good organizer and take pride in checking off my to-do list.

9. What are some tips that you would give someone struggling with faith?

Read your Bible and pray every day. Also, find a mentor that you can have open and honest conversations with about your struggles. It also helps to find a faith community that you can identify with and belong to.

10. What’s your favorite dessert?

Tiramisu or Apple Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream.