Justice, Mercy, Grace, Life: A Powerful Easter Weekend

The Central Division Easter Weekend took place in the Far South Section and was hosted by Galeshewe and Kimberley Corps. The gathering was held at The Lighthouse, a venue well suited to the programme and able to accommodate the large number of attendees. Under the theme Justice, Mercy, Grace, Life, the weekend drew strong and much appreciated support from across the Division, with excellent attendance despite the long distances many travelled.

Good Friday: Justice Mercy Grace

The opening session on Good Friday focused on the central truths of Justice, Mercy, and Grace. The first session explored these themes in a clear and Christ centred way. Justice reminded the congregation that the price of sin was real. Mercy declared that the penalty was paid. Grace proclaimed that the gift was given. The main message, presented by the Divisional Director of Women’s Ministries, Major Leanne Browski, centred on grace and the freely given gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. The message titled No King led to a significant time of response, with many seekers coming to the mercy seat.

The second session of Good Friday focused on the Seven Sayings of Jesus and was led by officers from across the Division. The programme was structured into three movements. Movement one reflected on mercy extended from the cross. Movement two focused on justice satisfied through Christ’s sacrifice. Movement three proclaimed grace completed in the finished work of Jesus.

This was followed by a challenge from the Divisional Commander, Major Brendan Browski, based on the Youth Band item ‘It Is Well’. The challenge asked a direct and searching question, Is it well with your soul? calling listeners to personal reflection and response.

Saturday Prayer Witness and Community Engagement

Saturday began with a well attended prayer meeting at Galeshewe Corps. From there, officers, soldiers, and musicians moved into the community in a united march of witness, supported by the Far South Sectional Band and the Divisional Youth Band. Dividing into two groups, they engaged with people along the route before gathering in a local park for a different kind of open air meeting.

The open air included music, testimonies, and musical ministry from the band and songsters. The Mission Team and Young People’s leaders worked with children nearby creating opportunities to share the love of Jesus with them. Some soldiers and officers moved through the park and surrounding streets, praying with individuals and sharing the gospel.

Testimonies pointed to God’s power to bring healing and transformation. Captain Dumisani Fakude delivered a clear message of salvation, using a visual illustration of a torn and damaged shirt hidden beneath his tunic to show how outward appearances can hide deep inner brokenness. His message pointed listeners to Christ as the One who restores and makes whole.

Shayatafula and Youth Ministry

In the afternoon, soldiers returned for the Shayatafula meeting which was followed by the well attended evening youth service, led by officers in the Division with support from the Territorial Mission Team. Through music, testimony, and drama, the message spoke directly to the realities faced by young people today. The Mission Team drama explored the choices before them, and Captain Mpumelelo Dathini challenged young people to consider which doors they were pursuing, reminding them that the Lord is knocking on the door of their hearts. Many responded at the mercy seat, with some indicating a willingness to explore full time ministry.

Resurrection Sunday: Life

Sunday opened with a brief march of witness, followed by the final service centred on the theme of Life. From the start of the meeting, there was a strong sense of God at work. Throughout the service, individuals continued to come forward to the mercy seat in response to the Spirit’s leading.

Times of prayer saw people coming both individually and in groups as Corps gathered together to seek God. Testimonies from Cadet Siphosethu Memani and Mission Team member Cherlene Thomasso added to the ministry of the morning. The Divisional Commander, Major Brendan Browski, delivered the closing message, and again many responded in repentance, commitment, surrender, and some with a desire to explore full time service.

Beautiful music throughout the weekend was provided by the Far South Section Band, the Divisional Youth Band, the Divisional Songsters, and the Far South Worship Team. Each played a meaningful role in supporting worship and ministry.

Easter 2026 in the Central Division was a significant time of ministry and response. Prayers were answered. Lives were touched. Many responded to God’s call. We give God all the glory for every victory.