The Eastern KwaZulu-Natal Division was filled with joy on Sunday, 22 February 2026, as Salvationists and friends from around the Territory gathered at Sibusisiwe Community Hall for a day that honoured God’s call on the lives of those stepping forward in ministry. The gathering brought together the Mission Team 2026 and the Proclaimers of Transformation session of cadets for a special time of worship, welcome, and dedication.
Music from the KwaZulu-Natal Combined Band filled the hall as leaders and staff from the College for Officer Training, along with the cadets, entered. The welcome was brought by the Chief Secretary, Lieut Colonel Themba Mahlobo, who encouraged everyone to celebrate the holiness and faithfulness of God. The opening worship from the Eastern KwaZulu-Natal team helped everyone remember that our ministry starts with giving glory to God.
Throughout the programme, the focus remained on mission. The Mission Team shared a dramatic spoken word. A prayer of dedication was offered by Lieut Colonel Nokuthula Mahlobo (TSWM), after she encouraged the team to “live differently on purpose,” challenging them not to entertain anything that would draw them away from living a holy life. A personal testimony from team member Shothodzo Tshamutama brought glory to God as he declared, “God rescued me… He has turned my life around.”
The Candidates Secretary, Captain Mpumelelo Dathini, presented the new cadets to the Territorial Commander while encouraging them that the One who had begun a good work in them would see it through to completion. The programme continued with the presentation of the Sessional Flag by Colonel Theresa Malins (TPWM). The Proclaimers of Transformation responded with their dedicatory song before a prayer of dedication. Cadet Fathima Masuku shared on behalf of the session, expressing gratitude for the support received and commitment to the work ahead. She acknowledged, “We all have a past… but God has changed us! When you have been transformed, you no longer live for yourself!” Scripture was read, an offering was taken, and the gathering continued with contributions from divisional music groups.
The Bible message was brought by Colonel Stephen Malins, who encouraged the cadets and the Mission Team to keep their relationship with God alive. The cadets and all in attendance were challenged by the Territorial Commander as he asked people to reflect on, “How am I living out the message of Jesus Christ?” Using Psalm 37:5, he further urged everyone to commit themselves fully to God, to wait on Him, and to seek Him daily.
A call to respond to the moving of the Holy Spirit was given, and people responded – some to the call of officership in The Salvation Army, and others to be proclaimers of transformation right where God has placed them.
The day concluded with a song of praise and a closing prayer from Lieut Colonel Themba Mahlobo. As the congregation dispersed, there was a clear sense of urgency to live and proclaim the Gospel. May it be so!