The History of "UNSHACKLED!"

The "UNSHACKLED!" radio program was begun under the leadership of past Superintendent Harry Saulnier. Harry yearned to reach the masses for Christ and earnestly prayed about the possibility of a radio program. For a short time Harry had a 15 minute program entitled "Doorway to Heaven" on station WAIT in 1945. On this program, Harry often related the true stories of individuals who had been saved at Pacific Garden Mission. This opportunity fueled Harry's desire to continue to share the testimonies of changed lives using the popular radio drama format of the day.

Thus, in 1950, the first recording session was scheduled. The first script was written by John Gillies, who worked at WMBI in Chicago. Clear channel radio giant, WGN agreed to air the program. Everything was in place except for one detail—a title. A name was desired that would declare to the audience the power of God to change lives. During one titling session, a former Navy man recalled, "In beginning a radio call at sea, we'd say 'shackled' and end with 'unshackled.' Why not 'UNSHACKLED!' for a title? Harry exclaimed, "That's it! It's different and yet it suggests just what we want the program itself to say—that Christ can break the fetters of sin and set the sinner free."