The first-year session of Cadets, bearing the sessional name of the Keepers of the Covenant, are on a remarkable journey of spiritual formation and discovery at the College for Officer Training. Each Cadet’s experience is deeply personal, shaped by moments of conviction, surrender, and growth as they prepare for a life of ministry and service as Officers in The Salvation Army. In this article, you’ll hear directly from the Cadets themselves as they share brief testimonies of how God is at work in their hearts and lives. Their stories remind us that the call to follow Christ is both beautiful and refining, a continual invitation to be shaped by His hands and to walk faithfully in covenant with Him.
Cadet Angela Moye – Letlhabile Corps, Central Division
I would describe my relationship with the Lord as a roller coaster, a pruning season. A pruning season is not easy but God has been by my side throughout the whole process. God has been helping me to cut off everything that caused me to stumble, convicting me of certain things I needed to deal with in my walk of faith. John 15:2 says God cuts off every branch in me that doesn’t bear fruit and God has been doing that in my life. One of my convictions has been a heart matter. God has been working on my heart, refining me and creating a new heart that is humble, merciful, and faithful. God dug deep to remove the little stones left in my heart to renew it.
Cadet Xolani Lubisi – Emangweni Corps, Mpumalanga & Eswatini Division
My journey with the Lord has been truly transformative. At first, I struggled with doubt, often wondering if I had chosen the right path. There were moments of loneliness and questioning, but through it all, God reminded me of His constant presence. Prayer and diving into His Word daily became my anchor, silencing the fear and uncertainty I once felt. Now, I walk in peace, confident in my calling. The doubts have faded, replaced with joy and purpose. I’m embracing this season of life as a Cadet, knowing God has placed me exactly where I need to be. I hold onto Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) says, So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Cadet Nosihle Mcineka – Thembisa Corps, Central Division
When I arrived at college on 27 January 2025, I told myself that a change needed to happen in my life, specifically in my personal life, spiritual life, and walk with the Lord. I prayed for transformation even before coming to college, and I have seen God answering that prayer. As I reflect on the Word of God, I continue to grow as a believer and future officer. My God has helped me, and I believe He will continue to help me every single day. I am very thankful and I serve the Lord with an open heart. It has been a great walk with the Lord, and I thank Him every single day.
Cadet Thapelo Gumede – South Rand Corps, Central Division
My walk with the Lord since arriving at College has been both exciting and challenging. College has stretched my way of thinking, how I approach situations, and most importantly, has made me step out of my comfort zone. I am happy to say that College and ministry have improved my relationship with God. I have learnt to depend on Him alone in times of need, tiredness, and loneliness through consistent prayer. I have no doubt that this is the path God has paved for me, and I am exactly where He wants me to be. 1 Timothy 1:12 reminds me that God is the One who called me, and He is the One who empowers and strengthens me.
Cadet Sinomhlobo Dubayi – Mount Frere Corps, Eastern Cape Division
I am on a journey of transformation, stepping out in faith to answer God’s calling. My path hasn’t been easy, but it’s worth it. I am growing spiritually, deepening my relationship with God, and developing my leadership skills every day. There are moments I still find myself amazed that I am here at CFOT because I have prayed for this for a long time. God has answered my prayers, and I am grateful. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds me that everything happens at the time God chooses, and I believe this is the time He has chosen for me.
Cadet Phumelele Thandeka Mbokazi – Nongoma Corps, Northern KwaZulu-Natal Division
Training College has become a home where I can explore my calling. My walk with the Lord has been both good and challenging. The Lord has worked in my heart and His presence has brought peace, hope, and joy even in difficult times. I have learned to rely more on His Word and to seek His guidance in everything. I thank God for my CFOT staff for their mentorship and my session mates, the Keepers of the Covenant, for their daily encouragement. Proverbs 3:5–6 encourages me to trust in the Lord’s presence in my life and to walk by faith always.
Cadet Nomonde Asmeen Ngomane – Mangweni Corps, Mpumalanga & Eswatini Division
My walk with the Lord at college has been a transformative journey. I see His love and grace daily, guiding and shaping me into the person He wants me to be. Through morning devotions, reading the Word, prayer, and quiet times, I have learned to listen to the voice of God. Ministry experiences have deepened my faith and confirmed my calling. 1 Peter 1:2 has been my strength and confirmation, reminding me of God’s purpose for my life and encouraging me to serve Him with obedience and faith.
Cadet Fikisiwe Mtshali – Estill Corps, Eastern KwaZulu-Natal Division
My walk with the Lord has been marked by His faithfulness. When I arrived at college, I was scared. Though I was prepared, I did not know what the path would look like. But God held me together. In moments of doubt, He gave me peace. I have grown in prayer, trust, and understanding of His love. It has not always been easy, but it has been real. Through every step, He has been near, guiding, teaching, and helping me grow. Isaiah 41:10 reminds me, Do not fear, for I am with you. I will strengthen you and help you.
These testimonies from the first-year session of Cadets remind us that following God’s calling is both a journey of becoming who God created and called them to be, and a daily act of faith. Each Cadet is learning to trust, surrender, and grow in their relationship with the Lord as they prepare for a life of service and ministry. We invite you, our readers, to keep the Cadets in your prayers, asking God to continue guiding, strengthening, and encouraging them as they walk faithfully in their calling.