On 17 December 2025, the THQ family came together to bid farewell to Commissioners Torben and Deise Eliasen, celebrating their faithful service in the Southern Africa Territory. Lieutenant Colonel Themba Mahlobo, Chief Secretary, welcomed the THQ family by reminding everyone, “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it.” He also expressed appreciation to the Eliasen family members who were present, thanking them for sharing their parents with the Territory.
At the request of the Commissioners, the retirement services centred on the theme of God’s faithfulness. This farewell service was no different. The THQ staff opened with the song “What a Faithful God Have I,” followed by a prayer from Lieutenant Colonel Nokuthula Mahlobo, Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries.
Mr Musa Shamase shared words of appreciation on behalf of THQ employees, saying the Commissioners had been truly “Baba (Father) and Mama (Mother)” to the staff, guiding, teaching, and praying for them. Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Dlamini, Secretary for Personnel, expressed gratitude on behalf of officers, affirming, “Your legacy will remain with us long after today.”
In her remarks, Territorial President for Women’s Ministries, Commissioner Deise Eliasen, reflected on nearly four blessed years in the Territory. She expressed her joy in serving alongside the THQ family, thanked everyone for their support, and encouraged all to extend the same love to the incoming Territorial Leaders. Her advice and encouragement to the THQ family was: “Do everything as unto the Lord, because it makes a difference!”
The Chief Secretary also recognised the outgoing Territorial Youth Secretary, Captain Nonhlanhla Maphalala, thanking her for her dedicated service. Captain Maphalala responded with words of appreciation, acknowledging with gratitude the opportunity to serve in this way. This was followed three staff members beautifully singing “Bless Thou the Lord, O My Soul.”
Commissioner Torben Eliasen shared a devotion based on Luke 2:52, encouraging the THQ family to grow as Jesus did, reminding them, “You are a chosen people – live that way.” As the service drew to a close, Lieutenant Colonel Doris Dlamini prayed over the Commissioners. Commissioner Torben then reminded all present: “It’s never been about us – it’s always about Him.”
The service concluded with the THQ family singing together “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” before Commissioner Torben and his daughter, Themis, shared a benediction in both Spanish and English. The Eliasen family closed the service with a special song, leaving the THQ family blessed and encouraged as the Territorial Leaders depart for their home Territory.