LaPorte Salvation Army Envoys Greg and Bethany Irwin issued this message to the community May 6, 2015:
“To our dear friends, neighbors, and fellow laborers of the great community of LaPorte,
“We have received word that we are being reassigned to the Petoskey, Michigan, Corps. We knew when we came to LaPorte that our stay would last two to four years depending on how the Corps was progressing and the availability of the highest quality leadership to take over upon our departure.
“The state of The Salvation Army of LaPorte is excellent due to the good folks of this distinguished community. The amazing turnaround is a testimony to the caring nature and the incredible generosity and dedication of the folks of this town. In three short years, the folks of LaPorte have become a part of our family. It has been an honor to serve you and to serve our neighbors in need alongside you. The Salvation Army is stronger because of your faithful devotion to the cause of making our community a more excellent place to reside. We are better able to serve the fine folks of this community because of your heartfelt commitment.
“The new officers coming in are tremendous folks of the finest caliber. They will not only assist in the continuation of the progress we as a Corps and a community are making, but will work alongside you as LaPorte aspires to reach new heights with God’s help (and yours!).
“What we are feeling is bittersweet to be sure. We are excited at the prospect of being much closer to our cherished grandchildren, but at the same time we are deeply saddened by the realization that we will miss so many treasured friends whom have come alongside us in this fantastic journey God has taken us on these past three years. We came to LaPorte very green and inexperienced Salvation Army Corps administrators and we leave much better people because of the love, patience and assistance so many of you have provided us. We have done some things well and have come up short at times … but please know from the bottom of our hearts we love the folks of LaPorte and we have always given our best.
“Thank you for the privilege of being a part of the LaPorte family these past three years. Be blessed. We love you.”
Envoys Greg and Bethany Irwin