The Sunday morning service for the Ordination and Commissioning of the Reflectors of Holiness unfolded with reverence as the Sessional Flag and the Cadets, bearing candles, entered the hall. The congregation lifted their hearts and voices in a resounding declaration of ‘Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty,’ responding to the palpable presence of the Lord.
Major Colleen Huke, Training Principal, presented the Reflectors of Holiness to the Territorial Commander, Commissioner Torben Eliasen. Commissioner Yvonne Conrad shared a heartfelt prayer of dedication over the Reflectors of Holiness, who, in turn, presented their Sessional Song. Commissioner Keith Conrad delivered a challenging message from the Word of God regarding our identity as God’s holy people. The International Secretary for Africa provoked self-reflection with the words: ‘We are strategically placed to shine God’s light, but we can only do this if we are holy.’ An appeal and call to officership followed, encouraging all present to consider how much of God’s holiness is reflected and evidenced in their life. We rejoice over those who responded to the leading of the Holy Spirit!
The atmosphere was charged with anticipation and excitement during the second meeting of the day, the Appointments Service, as the congregation eagerly welcomed the new Lieutenants with great jubilation. Worship was enhanced by the Johannesburg City Corps worship team, the Central Divisional Ladies Band, the Mid KZN and Mpumalanga & eSwatini Divisional Songsters, and the Central Division Youth Band. The long awaited results of the Territorial Junior Soldier Bible Challenge were shared, adding to the celebratory spirit of the service. The results were as follows:
1st Place: Mpumalanga & eSwatini Division
2nd Place: Central Division
3rd Place: Western Cape Division.
Commissioner Deise Eliasen and Lieut-Colonel Nokuthula Mahlobo, the Territorial President and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, respectively, extended a warm welcome to the parents of the Cadets, introducing them and honouring them with induction into the Fellowship of the Silver Star.
Lieutenant Nosipho Ntuli, the Sessional Speaker, led the congregation on a shared journey with the Reflectors of Holiness and expressed the Session’s appreciation to all who have impacted their lives during their training. The Territorial Commander, Commissioner Torben Eliasen, delivered a Charge to the Reflectors of Holiness and extended it to everyone present. Drawing inspiration from Jesus’ command to the disciples found in Matthew 28:16-20, Commissioner Eliasen spoke about the destination, occupation, and motivation embedded in The Great Commission.
The meeting culminated with the new Lieutenants receiving their appointments. The Reflectors of Holiness received the following appointments:
| Lieutenant Nosipho Ntuli appointed to Khambi Corps, Northern Kwa Zulu Natal Division. Lieutenant Anesu Mbofana appointed to Lethlabile Corps & Creche, Central Division. Lieutenant Mdumiseni Buthelezi appointed to Mceleni Circuit, Mid Kwa Zulu Natal Division. Lieutenant Philani Khumalo appointed to Pienaar Corps & Creche, Mpumalanga & eSwatini Division. Lieutenants Mzwakhe & Sibongile Ngobeni appointed to Galeshewe & Kimberley Corps, Central Division. |
After a moving and exciting day of witnessing God’s hand at work, Commissioner Keith Conrad closed the gathering with a Benediction. As the Commissioning weekend draws to a close, we give glory to God for the transformative work He has accomplished in the lives of the new Lieutenants during their training and for the movement of His Spirit during the Commissioning. As we depart, the call to go forth into the world, reflecting the holiness of the Lord in our homes, workplaces, and communities is etched on our hearts and minds. May we all be reflectors of His holiness!
Praise God for more officers!