The Silver Star Fellowship gathering was held on 12 December 2025 as part of the Commissioning weekend programme, providing an opportunity for The Salvation Army to express appreciation to the parents, guardians and significant life mentors who have walked closely with the Cadets on their journey toward Officership.
Lieut-Colonel Nokuthula Mahlobo, Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, warmly welcomed those gathered and explained the purpose of the occasion. She highlighted the importance of recognising those who have prayed, guided, encouraged, supported and journeyed with the Cadets, often quietly and faithfully, over many years.
The Fellowship of the Silver Star was inaugurated in the United States in 1930 and extended worldwide in 1936. Originally introduced by Commander Evangeline Booth as the Order of the Silver Star to honour the mothers of Salvation Army Officers, it later developed into an international fellowship. In 2001, the name was changed to the Fellowship of the Silver Star, reflecting the broader role of family and significant mentors in shaping the lives and calling of Officers.
The Champions of the Mission shared a song that included the words, “For Thy mission, make me holy; for Thy glory, make me Thine,” reinforcing the theme of dedication and service.
Cadet Andile Matukani paid tribute to the parents and significant life mentors on behalf of the Cadets. She spoke of their gratitude for the consistent prayer and support they have received and thanked families for releasing them to fulfil God’s call. She also asked that they continue to pray as the Cadets prepare to enter the field.
New members of the Fellowship of the Silver Star were then presented with certificates by the Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, while the Silver Star badge was pinned onto each parent or mentor by their Cadet.
Commissioner Deise Eliasen, Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, acknowledged with thanksgiving the parents and significant life mentors of the Cadets. She recognised the important role they have played in shaping the lives of the Cadets and expressed gratitude for the love, prayer and support shown in releasing them to follow God’s call through The Salvation Army. Commissioner Eliasen shared a devotional message, reflecting on the seeds of faith, discipline and love that have been sown in the lives of the Cadets and that will continue to bear fruit in the years ahead. She encouraged members of the Fellowship of the Silver Star to recognise their faithful foundation, their spiritual legacy and their shared mission. She reminded them that their role continues after Commissioning through ongoing prayer, encouragement and support, both in times of joy and in times of challenge.
The meeting concluded with Lieut-Colonel Themba Mahlobo leading the song To God Be the Glory, after which Commissioner Torben Eliasen pronounced the benediction.