Saturday afternoon of the Commissioning weekend was dedicated to a special retirement service honouring the Territorial Leaders, Commissioners Torben and Deise Eliasen. The gathering reflected gratitude to God and appreciation for their faithful service to The Salvation Army and to the Southern Africa Territory.
The meeting opened with a warm welcome and introductions by the Chief Secretary, Lieutenant Colonel Themba Mahlobo. He then led the congregation in a declaration of praise through the song What a Faithful God Have I.
Representing International Headquarters were Commissioners William and Thalitha Langa, who were present for the retirement of the Commissioners Eliasen. On behalf of International Headquarters, they presented the Retirement Certificate to the Commissioners. Commissioner Thalitha Langa expressed sincere appreciation for the friendship shared over many years and spoke words of blessing as the Leaders prepare to return to their home Territory. She then prayed a prayer of blessing over the Commissioners.
The musical sections on duty throughout the service included the United Ladies Band, the Central Divisional Songsters, and the 2025 Music and Creative Arts Camp Band, all of whom contributed to worship in a beautiful way.
The General Secretary of the South African Council of Churches, Reverend Mzwandile Molo, conveyed gratitude to God for the work of The Salvation Army in South Africa and for the significant role the Commissioners Eliasen have played in strengthening and advancing this work. “You have found a place of honour in our hearts,” he said.
Worship continued with an energetic dance by the Mission Team to Somandla Uzugcin’impilo Yam, before the sharing of words of appreciation from various representatives of the Territory. Ms Sima Nxele spoke on behalf of Junior Soldiers and Youth, Mrs Constance Tshivhase on behalf of Women’s Ministries, Mr Themba Ndlovu on behalf of Soldiers and Local Officers, and Captain Phumzile Ndlovu on behalf of Officers. Mrs Themis Gracida, the youngest daughter of the Commissioners Eliasen, shared words on behalf of the family.
The United Ladies Band presented a timbrel item, and Emihle Buthelezi sang I’m Thankful at the request of Commissioner Deise. The Commissioner then responded to all the words of appreciation with gratitude to God for saving, sanctifying, empowering and opening doors for them to love Him and His people across many countries. She expressed appreciation to her family, her home Territory of Brazil, Mozambique Territory, the South America West Territory, and her Southern Africa Territory family. She then led the congregation in singing I Speak Jesus, encouraging everyone to continue declaring the Name of Jesus, a reminder often shared by the Commissioners themselves that “It’s all about Jesus.”
Commissioner Torben Eliasen shared from The Word of God, speaking from 1 Thessalonians 5:12 to 23. He highlighted three key themes: healthy interactions within the body of Christ, a positive attitude, and a solid hope. He concluded with the assurance from Scripture, “The one who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.”
Colonel Jabulani Khoza, Territorial Commander of the Mozambique Territory, spoke on behalf of the Mozambique Territory, expressing appreciation for the Commissioners’ service there and presenting gifts. Major Nhlanhla Ziqubu followed with words of appreciation on behalf of the Southern Africa Territory and presented gifts from the Territory to Commissioners Eliasen.
The retirement service was a fitting tribute to Commissioners Torben and Deise Eliasen, celebrating a life of faithful leadership, love for God, and service to His people.