Major Katie and Major Charles Pinkston have dedicated their lives to serving others through their work with the Salvation Army. With over 24 years of experience, this dynamic couple has brought compassion, leadership, and a deep sense of purpose to every community they’ve touched.
Currently stationed in La Porte, Indiana, the Pinkstons are known for their commitment to helping those in need through leading outreach programs, providing pastoral care, and creating community connections. Their journey, marked by both challenges and rewards, reflects a profound dedication to their faith and the mission of the Salvation Army.
“Growing up in the Salvation Army, with a family deeply rooted in its traditions for generations, profoundly shaped my personal faith and my decision to become an officer,” Katie Pinkston said. “Seeing how my family and those around me lived their faith, always rejoicing, even during extreme hardship, taught me that true faith is something that is actively lived out.”
Charles Pinkston is from Kansas, Katie Pinkston is from Michigan, and they were both raised in the Salvation Army. Their initial meeting occurred at a Salvation Army church, but it was during their time at the College for Officers Training two years later that their relationship truly flourished. Their relationship deepened as they spent more time together, particularly during a summer assignment in Missouri.
“The wonderful thing about Charles is his patience,” Katie Pinkston said. “We sometimes joke that he lovingly annoyed his way into my heart because he would always pick on me or get a song stuck in my head. Our relationship developed first and foremost as a strong friendship. During our first year at seminary, we became really close friends. One day, while passing notes in a boring class, it suddenly occurred to me that God had given me such a strong love for this man.”
Over time, Katie Pinkston recognized her love for Charles Pinkston, leading them to date and eventually marry. She believes that their strong friendship formed the foundation of their successful marriage, allowing them to navigate the challenges of their demanding roles together.
“One thing I love about our partnership is our open communication and our ability to work through things together,” Katie Pinkston said. “God has given us the ability to be each other's strengths and support each other's weaknesses, particularly because we have opposite personalities. We're very thankful for that balance because it allows us to support one another in meaningful ways.”
Over the years, serving with the Salvation Army in various locations has brought both unique moments and challenges for the couple. Katie Pinkston finds it meaningful to reflect on these aspects of their service, often discovering humor in them.
"Our friends always joke that we should one day write a book about the hilarious moments we've experienced in our work,” she said. “There was a time when a squirrel ran through our building, and in almost every place we've been, I think we've had a dog run into the church service at some point. If we can't laugh and find joy in what we do, then what's the point?”
The Pinkstons cherish the deep relationships they've built with congregants, volunteers, employees, and community members in each place they've served. They find a sense of home and community no matter where they are stationed.
“In every place we've served, we've had the opportunity to build close relationships with those around us – not just our congregants, but also our volunteers, employees, and the entire community,” Katie Pinkston said. “I have wonderful memories of visiting with people and just participating in life with them. The beauty of the Salvation Army is that no matter where we are placed, we have the privilege of finding a home."
The Backpack Program is one of the key initiatives led by the Pinkstons in La Porte, providing weekend meals for children in the local school district. This program ensures that students have access to food during the school year, addressing a critical need in the community.
“One of our goals is to recruit new volunteers who can help clients choose food for their families, as we strive to build connections and relationships with everyone who comes through our doors,” Katie Pinkston said. “We view this as a holistic ministry, focusing not just on meeting physical needs but also on fostering meaningful relationships.”
Katie Pinkston acknowledged that, while being a Salvation Army officer comes with its challenges, it can also be deeply rewarding. After over two decades of service, the couple feels confident that they are exactly where they need to be, fulfilling their purpose at the right time.
"Being an officer can be challenging, sometimes even heartbreaking, but it is always joyful, peaceful, restful, and amazing," she said. "There may be difficult moments and tears, but after 24 years of service, I can confidently say that I'm exactly where God needs me to be at the right time and for the right purpose."
Charles and Katie Pinkston exemplify a life dedicated to service, faith, and community through their work with the Salvation Army. Their shared commitment to each other and their mission has not only strengthened their partnership but has also allowed them to make a meaningful impact in every community they’ve served. Whether through their innovative programs, personal connections, or strong faith, the Pinkstons continue to represent the heart of the Salvation Army, inspiring others to live with compassion, dedication and hope.