Meet the Officer – Auxiliary-Lieutenant Terri Muendel

1. What is your current appointment, and what do you find most satisfying about it?

I am currently working together with my husband, Bernie, as auxiliary-lieutenants, and we are the Corps Officers at Eastlakes Corps. We have been here for 34 years and have been leading for the past eight! We love our people. I think the most satisfying thing about my job is seeing the lightbulb come on for people when they get to know Jesus. I particularly love discipling young adults! 

2. Away from the appointment – if that’s possible! – what do you do to relax or unwind? 

I have a newfound love of crochet! I love watching movies and being with my dog. She’s one and adorable. She’s a Golden Groodle. I also love hanging out with my husband, two grown kids and their partners – they’re my favourite people in the world. 

3. What’s a favourite Christian song and why do you like it?

I love the song ‘Build a House’ by Megan Tibbits. I had it on repeat for weeks a couple of years ago. It talks about how we try to build things in our lives, only to mess them up. We often end up having to redo or relearn them. I want to spend my life in God’s house with God’s people. I’m committed to building the house. I don’t know ... it just speaks to me. 

4. If you could have a good talk with a biblical character apart from Jesus, who would it be, and what would you talk about?

David! I totally relate to how flawed he was, but also to how he so desperately loved and cared for his people. I love how he poured out his heart to God and how he was a worshipper and a skilled muso. I love how there were times when he was sad and constantly complained, but then he remembered the goodness of God, and that always helped him return to praise. Can’t wait to meet him.

5. If you were talking to a group of Salvationists and they asked if you recommended officership or not, what would you say?

I totally would. It’s not for everyone. I love how the Army is recognising different pathways to ministry now. We were never called to training college, but we have been called to love and lead our people. I actually love my job. It’s different every day, and I get to talk about Jesus constantly. It’s a beautiful privilege! 

More information on Salvation Army officership can be found here.