The Territorial Mission Team 2025 was officially welcomed today at Katlehong Corps in the Central Division in a service filled with worship, encouragement, and a strong call to mission. The gathering brought together Salvationists and guests, all united in support of the new team members as they step into their roles.
The congregation was warmly welcomed by Divisional Commander, Major Annanias Nhandara. The Territorial Commander, Commissioner Torben Eliasen, responded and shared a message of encouragement to the mission team members, focusing on the importance of listening to the Holy Spirit. Referring to Hebrews 3:7-12, he reminded those gathered that the Holy Spirit continues to speak, but believers must remain attentive and responsive to His voice.
The Territorial Mission Team 2025 is under the leadership of Major Vukani and Captain Sindi Nkosi (Pro-Tem), with vital support from Mission Team Coordinator Neo Kolobe. Their guidance and mentorship will be instrumental as the team moves forward. The 2025 team members are:
Andile Phakathi –Hammarsdale corps – Mid KZN Division
Siphosethu Memani – South Rand Corps – Central Division
Denzhe Singo – William Eadie Corps – Limpopo Division
Siboniso Nyawuza – Scottsfontein Outpost – Mid KZN Division
Sibongile Sithebe – Galeshewe Corps – Central Division
Zandile Makhubela – Block B Corps – Mpumalanga & eSwatini Division
Lusanda Ntimene – Steenbok Corps – Mpumalanga & eSwatini Division
Sima Nxele – iBhayi Corps – Eastern Cape Division
Music played a moving role in the service, with the Katlehong Songsters presenting I Am the Candle of the Lord as a prayerful offering. The Katlehong Band also contributed with a presentation of Hosanna Shuffle, adding to the spirit of worship. The Katlehong Worship Team participated as well and children from the Carl Sithole Children’s Home presented a worship dance, exalting the name of the Lord.
Commissioner Deise Eliasen, the Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, led a charge to the Mission Team, emphasizing their role as messengers of God’s peace. Drawing from Isaiah 52:7, she assured the team that “God is with us every day and in every circumstance.” Commissioner Deise encouraged them to allow the Lord to reign freely in their lives, reminding them that true victory comes from full surrender to the Lord. The charge concluded with a prayer of dedication over the team.
A testimony was shared by mission team member Sima Nxele. She spoke of her experience of God as her refuge and challenged the congregation to place their full trust in Him. The Mission Team members added their own voices, stepping forward not just to dance but to declare. Each one spoke a word that defined their walk with Christ: Restoration. Purpose. Forgiveness. Peace. Love. Hope. Freedom.
Lieut-Colonel Thomas Dlamini, Secretary for Personnel, delivered the Bible message, focusing on Matthew 9:35 and 10:23. He highlighted three key aspects of mission:
- The Model of Mission – Jesus did not wait for people to come to Him; He went to them.
- The Motivation for Mission – Jesus was deeply moved by the needs of the lost and hurting.
- The Mandate of Mission – Believers are called to go into the world and share Jesus with others.
He challenged the congregation with the question: How will people believe if they have not heard, and how will they hear if we do not tell them?
The service was a timely reminder of The Salvation Army’s commitment to mission and the importance of responding to God’s call. As the Territorial Mission Team 2025 begins their journey, they do so with the assurance that the Holy Spirit will guide them, and that God’s presence will be with them in every step ahead.
