Major Carin Holmes has recently returned home after a serving a term as the Divisional Commander, with the additional responsibility of Divisional Director for Women’s Ministries added later, for the Lusaka North West Division in Zambia. Following her three-year tenure in this overseas appointment, Major Carin is eager to serve in her home territory once again.
In an interview with the War Cry, Major Carin expressed deep affection for her time in Zambia, emphasizing the beauty of the Zambian people who have found a special place in her heart. Despite an initial period of adjustment, Major Carin adapted to her new environment and developed a significant appreciation for various aspects of The Salvation Army in Zambia. Reflecting on the commitment and loyalty of Zambian Salvationists, she noted, “Soldiers in Zambia are deeply committed, loyal, supportive of leaders and proud to be Salvationists.” Touched by their love, acceptance and care, Major Carin affirmed her gratitude for how Officers and Soldiers in Zambia embraced her, loved her and served God alongside her willingly.
Major Carin shared about treasured times spent with the children on the compound where she stayed, expressing how their visits, joyful laughter, beautiful singing and sweet company will be dearly missed. Little Kenny, a seven-year-old who regularly visited her office, asking about her day, held a special place in Major Carin’s heart, especially as she missed her grandchildren back home in South Africa.
Major Carin with some of the Officer’s children who lived on the compound with her.
Reflecting on visits throughout the Division, particularly in the more rural areas, Major Carin was moved to tears as she recounted the kindness and care shown by people, regardless of the resources available to them. Hospitality extended by Salvationists, opening their homes to her, left lasting impressions on her heart.
While Major Carin had the opportunity to lead and teach those in her care, she expressed that she learned invaluable lessons from the beautiful people she served in Zambia. Zambian Salvationists taught her that worship is not dependent on circumstances; even in difficult times, one can still praise God. Their ability to worship and dance with joy in the face of hardship left a lasting impact on Major Carin.
Major Carin with Lieutenant Sichimpanga and his new born baby girl, Destiny Carin Sichimpanga.
Major Carin also spoke of God’s faithfulness, recounting a desire that was planted in her heart many years ago during her time at the International College for Officers with the other delegates from Africa. The fulfilment of this desire, marked by her appointment to Zambia, fills her with deep gratitude to the Lord for remembering the seed sown in her heart so many years ago. She emphasized the faithfulness of God throughout her journey, acknowledging many instances where she clearly saw His hand moving on her behalf. Major Carin stressed the importance of knowing one’s identity in Christ and allowing that truth to guide her path, a principle that will continue to be foremost in her mind as she takes up her new appointment in February this year.
Welcome home Major Carin! May God bless you and the work of your hands as you continue to bloom where He has planted you!
A great story worth to be read more than twice, thank you Major Carin Holmes for touching many lives in the compound we shared together and the officers. She is a people’s person, totally given to making a difference in other people’s lives.