Contrary to popular belief, The Salvation Army Canada and Bermuda Territory did not eliminate the Corps Cadet program in 2002!  In fact, the Corps Cadet program was restructured to make it more flexiable, more attractive, and more current under the names CROSSzone and CROSStraining.

Corps Cadets:  Under the old corps cadet program, students learned the same Bible material, and answered questions depending on which age category they fell into.  At the time, corps cadets were either in lower grade (for ages 12 - 14) or in higher grade (15 - 16).  Each lesson encouraged students to participate in their local ministry in some way, for which they were rewarded points.  Exams were marked at Divisional Headquarters, and graduates were given certificates after five years in the program.

Bible Studies:  Under the new system, students ages 11 - 13 are called 'CROSSzoners'  and use the Junior High Bible Study, and those age 14 - 16 are called 'CROSStrainers' and use the Senior High Bible Study.  Notice that the new system includes the 11 year olds, who under the previous program were caught between Junior Action and corps cadets, with no program available.  One of the reasons for the change was to include those caught in the gap, and keep them attending a program (rather than have them quit and not wish to resume at age 12).

Under the new system, both levels of study (CROSSzone and CROSStraining) are written separately and are age appropriate.  Instead of a book, lessons are provided on full color worksheets.  There are no written exams, but CROSStrainers complete a verbal dialogue with their instructor at the end of the unit to see what has been learned.

Scope and Sequence:  Another important part of the Bible Study program is the intentional plan to cover a selection of Biblical material (Old and New Testaments), while at the same time addressing issues that are current to youth culture and Salvation Army distinctives.  Details of  the entire 10 year scope and sequence (which include Junior Action) and breakdown of lesson topics for each unit can be found through the Scope and Sequence page.

Ministry Training:  Now that there are no points for participating in ministry events, all CROSSzone/CROSStraining participants are encouraged to learn something about involvement in Ministry through regular Workshops.  These workshops are available in a number of topics which include:  How to Write a Testimony, How to Visit in a Hospial, How to Manage Money, How to Witness to Friends, and much more.

Students who wish to particpate in Ministry Training are required to be a part of a reguarly weekly Bible study.  If their location does not offer a youth Bible study, they are free to attend an adult Bible study, or a Bible study through another local church.

Mentoring:  Within the new program, students are encouraged to be mentored by an experienced Christian from their corps/church.  Using the Student Connection Planner, students choose a yearly Bible reading plan, and commit to memorizing scripture either monthly, bi-weekly, or weekly.   Once a month students meet with their mentor, who has also committed to the same Bible reading and memorization plan, to discuss what they have learned.

So, while the term Corps Cadets may not exist, and there are no higher/lower grade exam books, there still exists intentional discipleship through Bible Study, Ministry Training and Mentoring.

To find out more about these programs, use the links in the text.

All materials are available for ordering through the Online Ordering Catalogue.