The End of an Era

The Salvation Army of Kansas and Western Missouri salute Majors Jesse and Kelly Collins on their retirement. 

During their five-year era here which started with a pandemic and going through two presidential administrations, five Super Bowls and one World Cup, their stewardship has shaped and developed the mission capabilities of the 28 locations in the Division that serve our community.  

Over their career as Pastors and with many stops along the way, the Collins have always worked as a team and demonstrated true care and concern for the people they have led on their faith walk. 

Their tenure at the Kansas and Western Missouri Division resulted in the pruning of some programs and the planting of others but was always marked by a steady focus on building the leadership team and empowering officers in the field.  

In a recent service, Major Kelly remarked: “God is not only the God of destinations—He is the God of transitions. The in-between seasons are not interruptions; they are where transformation happens.”

As the Collins’ now transition to new a new season, Major Kelly’s term as Divisional Commander for Kansas and Western Missouri has transformed the Division and left us stronger and in a better place.

It is a remarkable lifetime of service, sacrifice and devotion to The Salvation Army!

We are sad to see them go but are happy for their accomplishments and wish them well in their retirement.