The Salvation Army St Helena Corps was blessed to welcome the Territorial Commander (TC), Commissioner Torben Eliasen, and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries (TPWM), Commissioner Deise Eliasen, for a nine-day visit in April. Both leaders took part in the Palm Sunday service at the Corps, where the Territorial Commander preached a stirring message from Luke 19 on the theme “Uncommon Triumph.” He reflected on the unusual, unexpected way Jesus entered Jerusalem and the extraordinary way He secured salvation for His people and for the world.
On Wednesday, 16 April, the Holy Week celebrations commenced in earnest at St Helena Corps, in line with the Western Cape Division’s theme: “It’s Friday, but Sunday’s Coming.” Corps Treasurer Nicholas Yon led a deeply insightful Bible study, focusing on the cross of Christ—not only as a place of humility and sacrifice but also as a glorious display of God’s love and the hope given to us.
On Thursday evening, a moving Tenebrae service was held. Various members of the Corps read Scripture passages highlighting Jesus’ agonizing surrender to God’s will in the Garden of Gethsemane. The gradual extinguishing of candles on the holiness table invoked a mood of sombre reflection, as the Corps looked ahead to the looming crucifixion of Christ.
The Good Friday service brought together a strong number of Corps folk and saints from across the island. Led by the Corps Officer, the service focused on how the gruesome events of Good Friday were, in fact, divine preparation for Christ’s glorious resurrection on Sunday. A blessed time of fellowship over hot cross buns and tea followed the service.
On Easter Saturday, some Corps members gathered for prayer in Jamestown in the morning, before walking through the town to engage residents and passers-by in conversation. They invited them to the Sunrise and Resurrection Sunday services and distributed a leaflet on the meaning of Easter.
The Sunrise Service at 6:00 a.m., held at the top of Ladder Hill, was well attended despite intermittent rain showers. It was ably led by Envoy Coral Yon, who reflected on the vital role women played in Christ’s ministry—and the crucial role they continue to play in demonstrating compassion and love in a broken and hurting world.
The Easter celebrations concluded with the 11:00 a.m. Sunday morning service at Half Tree Hollow. The message focused on the indisputable evidence of Jesus’ resurrection and the call for each of us to continue His ministry through our lives.
We praise God for a truly blessed Easter on the island and look forward to greater opportunities for mission in the days ahead!