The theme for the 2025 Five Year Officer Review, “Steadfast Servant Leadership,” reminds us of Jesus Christ as the ultimate pacesetter and model of servant leadership. In a world where Christian values are often diluted, Officers are called to proclaim a gospel that is uncompromised and selfless, following the example of Christ, who said, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28).
The review sessions centered on growth, accountability, and faithfulness. Officers were encouraged to celebrate the journey thus far while committing to future years of service with determination and integrity. Sessions focused on steadfast character, personal commitment, and hope for the future. Chief Secretary Lt Colonel T. Mahlobo began with a stirring keynote, calling Officers to honesty, humility, and courage in their leadership journeys. His challenge was clear: “If we do not tell the truth and do the right things now, the Army is going to fall in our hands.” He called for all Officers to embrace steadfastness and truthfulness in their calling, leading with integrity, humility, and wholehearted commitment to mission without compromise. He concluded by urging Officers to take bold actions that can positively impact mission, citing the courage of the four lepers in 2 Kings 7:3-9, who made a daring decision in a difficult situation and were miraculously and victoriously rewarded by God.
Lt Colonel T. Dlamini, Secretary for Personnel, explained the review process to the Officers, highlighting the key areas assessed during the evaluation. He called for Officers to faithfully commit to their journey of Officership, emphasizing integrity and accountability as essential to effective leadership.
The Officers, Messengers of the Kingdom, were given an opportunity to share testimonies of their journey over the past five years. In their powerful testimonies, they spoke of God’s faithfulness, patience learned in ministry, and trust in His promises even through challenges such as Covid-19. Stories of lives transformed, including a Muslim woman giving her life to Jesus, served as reminders that God continues to use Officers to bring hope in difficult times.
In one of the sessions themed Steadfast Walk and Character, the Territorial President for Women’s Ministries, Commissioner Deise Eliasen encouraged Officers through the wisdom of Proverbs 4:26 (NIV): “Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways.” She celebrated Officers’ journeys while reminding them to walk faithfully and with integrity, resist pride, and model Christ-like humility. She emphasized that “Steadfast Servant Leadership is not about recognition or personal elevation, but about unselfishness and the willingness to prioritize service to others.” Officers were reminded to portray steadfastness consistently, understanding that steadfastness is active trust and obedience in the face of uncertainty and adversity. Commissioner Eliasen concluded by explaining that steadfastness is not perfection, but faithful perseverance. In this way, the Lord will see these faithful deeds, and even the unseen seeds planted will bear fruit in God’s time.
Leader Development Secretary Captain Owen Mutize encouraged Officers to commit to personal growth and development so that they may serve effectively in their various responsibilities. He emphasized that personal growth should come from internal determination rather than waiting for others to push. Officers were urged to set personal development goals and to maintain a healthy balance between ministry, family, and personal growth.
In the concluding sessions, Territorial Commander Commissioner Tobern Eliasen spoke on resilient servanthood during uncertain times, drawing leadership insights from Jethro’s advice in Exodus 18:14-24. He highlighted the importance of understanding diversity within The Salvation Army and respecting cultural differences. He concluded the review by emphasizing the need to rewrite the future, fully aware that while the past is unchangeable, lessons from it can positively shape a better future for the glory of God.