The Salvation Army and SeaWorld “Make Waves, Not Waste”

In celebration of World Oceans Day, SeaWorld San Diego and The Salvation Army unveiled two vibrant underwater-themed murals made entirely from donated clothing that was unsellable in thrift stores. Created by over 60 students from Otis College of Art and Design and Santa Monica College, the large-scale artworks are displayed near SeaWorld’s Dolphin Amphitheater and feature marine life like otters and whales with the message “Make Waves, Not Waste.” The pieces aim to raise awareness about textile waste and ocean pollution while showcasing the power of art and collaboration to inspire action for sustainability.

The project, led by The Salvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Center (ARC) and donation teams, turned discarded items like denim, socks, and swimsuits into intricate, textured murals. It also provided students with hands-on experience, new skills, and a sense of purpose through teamwork. As thousands of SeaWorld visitors view the murals this summer, organizers hope the exhibit will spark broader conversations around environmental conservation and creative reuse.

Congress Underscores Unity in Christ and Mission

More than 2,200 people in The Salvation Army’s USA Central Territory gathered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, alongside the international leaders, General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries), for the Belonging 2025 congress. 

Throughout the congress, the concepts of belonging to God, the Body of Christ, community, and mission were explored. United sessions displayed the territory’s diversity and unity in Christ and mission. Inspiring musical presentations, heartfelt praise, moving personal testimonies, and profiles of life-changing ministries wove the meetings together as the theme of Belonging was explored.

“We come together not just as individuals who occupy a common space, but we are part of something greater. We are a living, breathing community, connected by the love of Christ,” said Commissioner Buckingham, speaking from Romans 12 and diving into what it means to be the Body of Christ.

Throughout the weekend, delegates were spurred on in faith, witness, and service by the Buckinghams’ clear and compelling messages.

“It’s not sufficient for us to celebrate our belonging. It’s our responsibility as His redeemed children, loved by Him, to clothe ourselves with those things that are synonymous with belonging to the Kingdom of God,” said the General.

Among the noteworthy congress highlights were the enrollment of 61 junior and senior soldiers and adherents; the commissioning of the Champions of the Mission Session of cadets; a World Services Ingathering of $11.2 million and dedication of summer mission teams going to Kenya, Mexico, and Slovakia; and the presentation of the Others Award to corps community ministries director Pamela Church-Pryor (Norridge Citadel, Illinois), who was described as the embodiment of holistic ministry and cited as having influenced 90 individuals to become soldiers or adherents (Salvation Army church members).

Aligned with The Salvation Army’s Global Strategic Framework, Compass, the new Territorial Priorities (Spiritual Life, Youth, and Leadership Development) were featured, with Territorial Commander Commissioner Evie Diaz calling them three pillars for shaping the vision of the territory.

“It’s not about adding more programs or work,” said Commissioner Diaz. “They call us back to the heart of our mission.”

Twelve new awards for excellence in relation to the priorities were presented by Commissioner Buckingham at a commencement and awards banquet, which concluded a Belonging Conference representing a fully integrated gathering of ministries — a first for the territory — preceding the congress. 58 officers were also recognized for earning degrees and certificates, and cadets received certificates and honors. In his commencement address, the General charged the Champions of the Mission to stay humble, connected, accountable, and focused. The next day, all officers joined the Buckinghams for councils.

Congress meetings were complemented by a wide range of activities. Ten “belonging” spaces provided resources and facilitated connection and conversations, and an interactive prayer zone encouraged reflection and intercession. A gaming tournament and a Rising Stars musical competition filled an afternoon. The Thrift Express Bus brought a traveling boutique to delegates, and the debut of “Belongings: A Thrift Store Musical” took center stage. A kids’ congress was a smash hit, with more than 200 children affirming their belonging.