Envoys from around the Territory gathered at the College for Officer Training from 22 to 26 June 2026 for a week of focused training, encouragement, and spiritual renewal. The programme brought together leaders and teachers who challenged delegates to grow in holiness, deepen their calling, and serve with greater effectiveness in the mission of The Salvation Army.
From the opening session, the emphasis was clear. Leadership is not only about ability, but about character. Lt Colonel Dlamini reminded Envoys that true leadership calls for a life that upholds holiness, defends righteousness, and stands firmly for truth. This theme carried through the week as speakers returned again and again to the importance of Christlike character in ministry.
Sessions on personal development encouraged Envoys to pursue growth with intention. Delegates were reminded that passion and commitment are essential, and that every leader must continue learning in order to serve others well. There was also a strong warning against comparison. Each Envoy was encouraged to walk the path God has set before them, trusting that their unique calling has purpose. A practical focus ran throughout the training. Teaching on goal setting, leadership principles, and Corps management provided tools that can be applied immediately in ministry. Yet these practical insights were always grounded in spiritual truth. As Major Brendan Browski reminded delegates, running a corps is not simply management. It is a spiritual responsibility that depends on God.
Community care and pastoral ministry were also central themes. Delegates were challenged to respond to the needs around them with compassion, action, responsibility, and empathy. The importance of trust and confidentiality in ministry was emphasised, recognising that people open their lives to us in moments of vulnerability. Training on pastoral care and mercy seat counselling reinforced the privilege of guiding seekers as they respond to God. Envoys were encouraged to rely on Scripture, prayer, and the leading of the Holy Spirit, remembering that ministry is about pointing people to Jesus rather than offering human solutions.
The week also highlighted the mission of The Salvation Army in clear and practical terms. Sessions on evangelism reminded delegates that the Army exists to save souls, grow saints, and serve suffering humanity. Evangelism is not optional. It is at the heart of our calling. Delegates were challenged to share the gospel intentionally, recognising that lives are still being transformed through the power of Christ. Teaching on public relations and community engagement showed how the Salvation Army’s witness extends beyond the corps hall. Envoys were encouraged to be faithful ambassadors of the Salvation Army, ensuring that the message of hope is both seen and heard in their communities.
A meaningful moment came in the session led by Colonel Theresa Malins, who invited delegates to “come to the table” and discern God’s direction together. This reminder to listen, reflect, and seek God’s wisdom highlighted the importance of unity and humility in leadership.
As the week drew to a close, the Envoys were encouraged to approach their future ministry with wisdom, clarity, and faith. Scripture passages such as Isaiah 41 verse 10 and John 14 verse 27 pointed them to the peace and strength that come from God alone. While the programme included many lecture sessions, it was far more than a training course. It became a time of spiritual renewal, personal reflection, and renewed commitment to God’s calling. The Envoys left with a deeper understanding of their calling and a fresh passion to serve.
The week at the College for Officer Training was a powerful reminder that God continues to prepare and equip those who are willing to answer His call. As these Envoys move forward into their appointments, they do so with hearts strengthened, vision renewed, and the assurance that the God who has called them will continue to guide and sustain them in the ministry ahead.