Major John Griner, commander of the Salvation Army Capital City Region says there is, “never a dull moment at The Salvation Army.” That includes a partnership that brings Dauphin County Library System staff and resources to The Salvation Army’s summer youth enrichment programs. Students from pre-K to eighth grade get guidance in silent sustained reading – meant to build comprehension and appreciation of reading. Now, with The Salvation Army’s new Harrisburg headquarters, when everything returns to normal, students will be walking distance to the Kline Library. 

What are you reading? My wife and I are both pastors here, and we’re reading up for presentations on dealing with worry and anxiety, so it’s very appropriate right now. I’m also reading “Morning and Evening,” an old English devotional by Charles Spurgeon, and “Disciplines for the Inner Life,” by Bob and Michel W. Benson. 

Why those particular books? I’m a firm believer that a leader can only lead people to places they have been themselves. It’s good to be on top of current issues and how they relate biblically. Just recently, the sermon topic was “unworry.” Worry doesn’t add anything to your life. In fact, it can subtract from your life. When you feel like you’re out of control, there is a spiritual source we can lean on, and that’s our relationship with God. 

What’s your favorite thing about the library? I could absolutely live in the library. The Dauphin County Library System people are very relatable. For our enrichment program, I like to say that they put the cookies down where the kids can get them. It usually happens during review time, after students have read a book. They will relate a personal connection with one of the characters in the story, and it inspires conversation among the group. Kids are more forthcoming with what’s happening in their lives and their struggles.