A powerful and spirit-filled divisional weekend was held at Thohoyandou Corps in the Limpopo Division. The gathering began with a worship service, where vibrant songs of praise were lifted, and the worship team led the congregation into the presence of God through heartfelt worship.
Divisional Commander, Major I.S. Mntambo, officially welcomed the weekend’s guest speaker, Major T.P. Semeno, the PR and Communications Officer for the Limpopo Division. Major Semeno introduced the theme of the weekend: “The Power of the Cross” and spoke about the importance and significance of the cross.
Throughout the day, Divisional Envoys and Corps Officers shared the Word of God. Envoy Rejoyce Nemavhola spoke on the arrest of Jesus, while Envoy M.S. Madi reflected on Jesus before Pontius Pilate. Songsters from various corps blessed the gathering with uplifting music.
In the afternoon, the Corps Officers took turns preaching on the seven sayings of Jesus from the cross:
- Major Nancy Ndlovu spoke on: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” She emphasized that forgiveness is essential for peace of mind, just as Christ forgave us.
- Captain N. Fakudze shared about: “Today you will be with me in paradise,” reminding us that God is merciful and ready to forgive immediately.
- Captain G. Dlamini focused on: “Dear woman, here is your son… here is your mother.”
- Lieutenant Aluwani Ndou preached on: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” He reflected on how, like Jesus, we can feel abandoned in moments of pain but we are never truly alone.
- Captain Z. Fakudze spoke on the fifth saying: “I am thirsty”.
- Captain Malusi Dlamini presented the sixth saying: “It is finished,” affirming that Jesus had completed the mission entrusted to Him by the Father.
- Lieutenant Nompumelelo Mabasa concluded with the final saying: “Father, into Your hands I commit my spirit.” She encouraged the congregation to recommit their lives to God and live in submission to His will.
Saturday Morning Session – 19 April 2025
The morning began with prayer, followed by a presentation by Major T.P. Semeno introducing the “Proudly Salvationist” campaign. The question was posed: “How will people know there is a Salvation Army around if we are not visible?”
Each corps was encouraged to organise a community outreach event on 7 June 2025. These events aim to strengthen relationships with local communities and involve young people actively. The call was made to return to the basics—open-airs, marches of witness, and home visitations—activities that have historically built strong community ties and pointed people to Jesus while also often opening doors for donor engagement.
The Shayatafula committee presented their report. Envoy T.R. Tshishivheli encouraged soldiers to give generously, reminding them that giving is an act of worship. The atmosphere was filled with joy as people danced and gave unto the Lord.
Sunday Service
Sunday began with a march of witness through the CBD, publicly proclaiming the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Retired Officer Major J. Radzilani led the Sunday service, and Lieutenant Buyisiwe shared a message on the empty tomb, proclaiming that Jesus is no longer there—He has risen!
Captain S. Ndlovu reflected on the journey to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–15), challenging everyone with the question: “What are you talking about?” Envoy Tshishivheli preached from John 21:1–4, and the guest speaker concluded with a message from John 20:19–23. He spoke of Jesus appearing to His disciples behind locked doors, blessing them and showing them His hands and feet. The message touched many hearts. In response, several people recommitted their lives to Christ and knelt at the Mercy Seat in prayer. Officers stood in support, praying with them. Some even responded to the call for Officership, and Major Semeno offered prayers of dedication over them. The Sunday School children also shared a demonstration of what they had been learning and doing in their own tent sessions.
It was truly a blessed weekend. With 356 in attendance on Sunday alone, we thank God for such a time as this. May the seeds sown continue to bear fruit in the days to come.