Our weekend started beautifully with our Divisional Commander (Major N. Malinga) as our guest, supported by our special visitors, Captain M. Memani (Secretary for Business Administration) and Captain N. Memani (Administrator, Ethembeni Children’s Home).
The call to understand what happened on the Cross of Jesus and beyond was clear from the beginning to the end of our Easter weekend. This was carried through the weekend’s theme: “His shame, our sanctification.” The Limpopo Division gathered at Polokwane Happy Day Combined School, with Seshego Corps as our host, to experience the transformative power of the Cross and His Resurrection.
Good Friday: Journey to and on the Cross (03 April 2026)
The weekend began with powerful praise and worship led by our divisional worship team. The main purpose of the Good Friday service was for congregants to reflect on the passion and death of Jesus Christ. The Divisional Commander took time to introduce the theme for the weekend, “His shame, our sanctification.” The atmosphere of mourning reminded officers, soldiers, and friends of The Salvation Army of the depth of Christ’s love—a love willing to suffer and give everything.
Friday’s sessions, led by different speakers, challenged everyone to reflect on the journey to Gethsemane, drawing a picture of our King who suffered at the hands of humanity. We saw Jesus arrested for something He did not do, and standing before Pilate—a man in authority who failed to stand for the truth. This was followed by the thought-provoking Seven Sayings, presented by different officers, where every believer was invited to slow down, reflect, and return to God with a sincere heart.
The Divisional Commander, Major N. Malinga, concluded the Friday by focusing on 1 Peter 2:22–24 and Hebrews 12:2: “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth.” She encouraged soldiers to lay down their burdens, frustrations, and regrets at the foot of the Cross.
Saturday: Ministry Group Sessions, Shayatafula, and Youth Gathering (04 April 2026)
Saturday remained a quieter day of anticipation, with many members engaging in personal reflection as they prepared their hearts for the resurrection.
The day was meaningful and heartwarming, with four different ministry group breakaway sessions held simultaneously at separate venues. The Women’s Ministries section was addressed by Captain N. Memani, Ms Tebogo (a social worker), and supported by the Divisional Commander. The Men’s and Young Men’s Fellowship gathering was led by Captain M. Memani and supported by Captain S. Ndlovu (DMFS). The youth and children’s session was conducted by Lieutenant N. Masango (DYO) and Lieutenant A. Matukane (DCMO). Each session was Spirit-filled, and many were deeply moved as speakers shared from their hearts.
This was followed by the Shayatafula service, where all Corps in the division gave generously towards the mission of God and the growth of His work within the division. The service was beautifully led by the Divisional Shayatafula Committee.
The day concluded with a youth gathering led by the DYO, Lieutenant N. Masango. The theme for the evening was “His shame to set us apart: Come to the table,” based on Matthew 22:1–14, Luke 14:15–24, and Revelation 19:9. The message was clear: those who are invited have a responsibility to respond and not make excuses.
Resurrection Sunday: Hope Lives! (05 April 2026)
Easter Sunday commenced with a march of witness by soldiers, local officers, and officers, giving a salute to our Divisional Commander and our visiting Captains, M. and N. Memani.
The day marked a dramatic shift to joy, with praise and worship, ministry from the divisional band and songsters, and a powerful message of hope and light from the Divisional Commander, Major N. Malinga. The service began with the joyful proclamation: “Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!”
The Resurrection message highlighted that Easter is not merely a historical event but a living reality that empowers believers to face today’s challenges with a “resurrection-power mentality.” The sermon emphasised that the resurrected life must be lived and demonstrated, transforming how we love our neighbours and approach daily life.
“The Resurrection is not simply the conclusion of the Passion; it is the beginning of a new creation,” said the Divisional Commander. She continued, sharing from 1 Corinthians 15:12–17: “We are called to live as witnesses of the risen Saviour, demonstrating godly character in our communities and homes.”
Moving Forward as an Easter People
As The Salvation Army Limpopo Division moves forward from this Easter celebration, the call is to carry the light of Christ, radiating His love and hope into our local communities. The weekend concluded with a time of fellowship, strengthening the bonds of our church family.
In conclusion, the Divisional Commander invited everyone in the division to journey together in the coming weeks as we continue to celebrate this season of new beginnings under the theme: “His shame, our sanctification.”