On Sunday, 23rd February, Salvationists from across the Territory gathered in the Limpopo Division for an exciting occasion—the welcome and celebration service of the Keepers of the Covenant. Eight cadets from the Mpumalanga & eSwatini Division, Eastern Cape Division, Eastern KwaZulu-Natal Division, Northern KwaZulu-Natal Division, and Central Division were officially welcomed as they commence their journey of training for ministry.
The morning began with a vibrant march of witness through the streets of Thohoyandou, as the band played the uplifting strains of Joy, Joy, Joy, There is Joy in The Salvation Army. The Territorial Leaders, Commissioners Torben & Deise Eliasen, alongside Lieut-Colonels Themba and Nokuthula Mahlobo, took the salute as Salvationists marched in joyful celebration.
Lieut-Colonel Themba Mahlobo, Chief Secretary, extended words of welcome and acknowledgement, affirming the significance of the occasion. Captain Nonhlanhla Maphalala, the Territorial Candidates Secretary, presented the Keepers of the Covenant, encouraging them to remain sure in their calling, living with integrity and faithfulness.
A solemn charge was given by the Territorial Commander, Commissioner Torben Eliasen, to the College for Officer Training (CFOT) staff, highlighting the purpose of the CFOT training: equipping cadets to BE—to be real children of God, KNOW—to know the Word of God, and DO—to execute the mission of God. Commissioner Deise Eliasen then presented the sessional banner, calling on both the cadets and those in attendance to ensure that their lives reflect a banner that glorifies God.
In a moving moment of dedication, the Keepers of the Covenant sang their dedicatory song before kneeling in prayer, led by Lieut-Colonel Nokuthula Mahlobo. Cadet Thapelo Gumede, the sessional representative, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the cadets to all who have invested in their journey. He also challenged his fellow session mates, declaring that Keepers of the Covenant should not merely be a title or a logo on their jackets, but a name they truly live out every day, in every way.
The service was enriched with beautiful musical ministry from the Central Divisional Band, the Mpumalanga & eSwatini Divisional Songsters, and the Limpopo Division Worship Team. The Bible message was delivered by Commissioner Torben Eliasen, based on John 1:29. The Territorial Commander spoke powerfully about the Lamb of God—His credentials, His mission, and His beneficiaries—urging all present to keep the new covenant foremost in their lives. “Keep the Lamb of God central in your life,” he challenged.
The Territorial Youth Department, with the support of several Divisional Children’s Ministries Officers, and their dedicated team, created a vibrant and engaging space for the children in attendance. With excitement in the air, the children participated in uplifting worship, dance, and fun-filled activities that helped them learn Scripture verses in an interactive and memorable way. Bible stories came to life, and games were designed to teach valuable lessons about Jesus. Through every activity, the children were joyfully pointed to Jesus. It was a day filled with energy, learning, and a deeper understanding of God’s Word for the next generation
As the day drew to an end and the Keepers of the Covenant embark on their training and future ministry, this welcome service was an important reminder of their calling. It was a day of joy, commitment, and a renewed focus on Christ, the Lamb of God. May the cadets, and all who witnessed this significant occasion, walk forward with faith, keeping the covenant and the mission of God at the heart of all they do.
