Nearly 2,000 women from across The Salvation Army Southern Africa Territory gathered in one place for a holy and happy occasion – the Territorial Women’s Ministries Conference, held under the theme “Crown Her”, drawn from Isaiah 61:3.
The Orlando Stadium in Soweto, Johannesburg, was alive with anticipation and beauty on Friday as the conference officially opened with a powerful day themed “Crown Her with Purpose”. With hearts set on discovering and affirming their identity in Christ, women stepped into a space that had clearly been prayerfully prepared for God to move.
From the first notes of ‘Igama LamaKhosikazi’ played by the Ladies Band, to the majestic welcome by the Mission Team and Cadets, and the echoes of the opening song ‘Crown Him with Many Crowns’ filling the venue – it was clear this would be a day of deep spiritual impact.
Lieut-Colonel Nokuthula Mahlobo, the Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, warmly welcomed all in attendance, inviting the ladies to open their hearts and receive all that the Lord had prepared for them. The TSWM declared that they were indeed standing on holy ground. Commissioner Deise Eliasen, Territorial President of Women’s Ministries and guest for the weekend, introduced the conference theme with grace and insight, urging the ladies to enthrone the Lord in their lives – to surrender what is not right and receive a crown of beauty from Him in its place.
Friday’s first session flowed beautifully, with participation from the Limpopo, Mpumalanga & eSwatini, and Mid KwaZulu-Natal Divisions. Major Priscilla Ziqubu (DDWM for Mid Kwa Zulu Natal Division) then led a rich and insightful Bible study based on Isaiah 62:1–6, reminding the ladies of their identity and encouraging them to remember to Whom they belong.
Following the Bible study, the women spent time at prayer stations—quiet spaces designed to help them connect with their Heavenly Father through Scripture and written letters from the Father’s heart. The stations offered a meaningful time of reflection, with some ladies quietly moved, and others taking the opportunity to pray with one another.
The second session further explored the day’s focus: Knowing Our Identity. After joyful praise led by the Ladies Band, each Division presented handmade crowns – creatively expressing what it means to be royalty in God’s Kingdom. This beautiful display of creativity reminded everyone that we are daughters of the King.
Lieut-Colonel Doris Dlamini honoured retired officers with gratitude, acknowledging their years of faithful service. The programme then featured a vibrant Princesses and Queens ministry time, followed by a Royal Proclamation that included testimonies from representatives of the Central Division Junior Miss, the Western Cape Young Women’s Fellowship, and the Eastern KZN Home League ladies.
Major Juanita Wright (DDWM, Western Cape) shared a compelling video on generational ministry, encouraging women to celebrate and value each age group for their unique contribution to the Kingdom. This theme was then further explored during a question-and-answer time facilitated by Lieutenant Desiree Dathini. The Q&A session culminated in a time of prayer as the ladies interceded for bridging the generational gap in our Corps.
Commissioner Deise Eliasen offered an encouraging epilogue, pointing hearts back to the One who crowns His daughters with beauty, purpose, and joy. She reflected on 1 Peter 2:9, encouraging the ladies to embrace their identity as holy. ‘As followers of Jesus, we are not only recipients of salvation but chosen vessels, made and transformed by our Lord – vessels for His work,’ she said. The TPWM also urged the ladies to believe and accept what God has said about them, adding, ‘Don’t listen to anyone who says you are anything contrary to what the Word of God says about you.’
As the Ladies Band concluded with a trumpet call, the day closed with thanksgiving. From start to finish, Day One of Crown Her was a significant and blessed day – a time when women remembered who they are, Whose they are, and how deeply they are loved. And the weekend was only just beginning.