Sunday, 19 October 2025, was a deeply moving day at Soweto Central Corps, filled with prayer, encouragement, and celebration. The service focused on two significant occasions: a prayer session for all learners preparing for their final exams, especially the matriculants, and the enrollment of a new Home League member, Mrs Fikile Manganyi.
The morning began with a striking scene as the congregation stood in appreciation when Major Xolani Zungu and three other senior soldiers marched in wearing their academic graduation gowns. This powerful visual reminded everyone of the importance of perseverance in education. The display of gowns and belts, each representing different stages of academic achievement, stood as a testimony that hard work, faith, and commitment can indeed take one far. It was a moment that beautifully tied together the pursuit of education and the faith that carries us through every challenge along the way.
The matriculants and all students preparing for exams were then called to the front. Junior Soldier Company Guard Mandisa Simelane addressed them with uplifting words. She encouraged them to stay strong and focused as they approach this crucial time in their lives. “You have a whole community here,” she reminded them, “people who are cheering you on, praying for you, and believing in your success.” She further invited them to reach out to anyone within the Corps for guidance and support, reminding them that this journey does not have to be walked alone.
As she concluded her message, Mandisa urged them to keep Psalm 27:1 close to their hearts: “The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?” She reminded them that God has already set the table for them, and that fear has no place in their journey ahead.
Following this message, the entire congregation joined in prayer, asking God to bless each student with wisdom, peace, and strength during their exams. Then came a meaningful moment when Retired Band Master Raymond Zabale presented each learner with a pen. It served as a symbol of purpose and trust — a reminder that as they write, they can rely on God to steady their hearts and fill their minds with understanding.
The service then moved to the enrollment of Mrs Fikile Manganyi into the Home League, led by Major Iris Zungu. After 13 weeks of preparation and study, this was a long-awaited and joyful moment. Mrs Manganyi signed and read her pledge card, affirming her commitment to live a life of service, fellowship, worship, and learning. Then came the candle lighting ceremony, a symbolic part of every Home League enrollment.
When it was time for her testimony, Mrs Manganyi spoke openly and from the heart about how transitioning from her traditional church to The Salvation Army had not been easy. “I followed my husband here,” she said with a gentle laugh, “and it took me a while to adjust!” She went on to say that her mother-in-law had encouraged her for two years to join the Home League, but she “just wasn’t ready.” This year, however, the tables turned. She was the one who asked her husband when she could finally join! The congregation responded with smiles and laughter, celebrating her honest and joyful spirit.
When classes began, she discovered she was the only student. Instead of being discouraged, she took it as a personal message from God, that this was a unique journey designed just for her. She supported her story by referencing Acts 27:13–24. In her own words, she likened her journey of faith to that ship, which was rocked by challenges but anchored in God’s promise.
The service concluded with a powerful sermon from Major Iris Zungu, drawn from Joshua 24:16. She encouraged both Mrs Manganyi and the congregation to “stay at the altar,” the place where God renews our strength and continues to breathe life into our faith. Her message was a timely reminder that remaining steadfast in God’s presence is the key to overcoming every obstacle, whether it is exams, personal challenges, or new beginnings in ministry.
As the Soweto Central Chorus sang the closing song, the spirit of unity and encouragement filled the hall. It was a Sunday that beautifully captured the heart of Soweto Central Corps.