Eight candidates from across the Southern Africa Territory gathered in Johannesburg from 3 to 9 August 2026 for the annual Candidates Assessment, taking an important step in discerning God’s call on their lives.
The week brought together men and women who are exploring a calling to Salvation Army officership. Candidates are individuals who have expressed a desire to serve God as officers and who have already undertaken a period of prayer and discernment within their Corps and Divisions. The assessment process forms an important part of determining their readiness to possibly proceed towards officer training.
On the first day, the Secretary for Personnel opened the morning session by orientating the candidates to the assessment process and welcoming the Faculty who would be involved throughout the week. The Territorial Commander, Colonel Stephen Malins, and the Territorial President of Women’s Ministries, Colonel Theresa Malins, taking the opportunity to meet with the candidates and Faculty and to offer words of welcome, encouragement and prayer as the week began. During the morning, Colonel Stephen Malins referred to 2 Peter 1:5–10, encouraging the candidates to “make every effort” to add to their faith and to develop the qualities described in Scripture. He challenged them to approach the assessment days intentionally, using the opportunity to examine their calling, grow in their understanding of themselves and ministry, and, in accordance with the Word of God, make every effort to confirm their calling. The Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Ministries joined the candidates and Faculty for lunch, providing a further opportunity for fellowship and encouragement at the beginning of this significant week.
Throughout the week, the eight candidates participated in a comprehensive series of assessments designed to provide a holistic view of each individual’s suitability for the demands and responsibilities of officership. These included pastoral, academic, vocational, psychological and medical assessments.
While the process is rigorous, its purpose is not simply to evaluate skills and abilities. It seeks to help both the candidates and the Territory discern God’s leading and to identify those who demonstrate the character, commitment and calling required for ministry as Salvation Army officers.
A diverse assessment panel contributed to the process, bringing together officers, local officers, a social worker, psychologist and a medical doctor. Drawing on their varied experience and professional expertise, the panel members were able to assess each candidate from a range of perspectives.
For many candidates, the week provided opportunities for reflection, personal growth and meaningful conversations about their journey of faith and ministry. It also offered a space to consider the realities of officership and the opportunities it presents to serve communities, share the gospel and care for people in need.
As the assessment programme concluded, participants left Johannesburg with a deeper understanding of both themselves and God’s direction for their lives. The Territorial Candidates Department now continues the process of prayerful consideration and discernment as decisions are made regarding future officer training.
The Salvation Army depends on men and women who are willing to respond to God’s call to ministry. As a Territory, we thank God for those who have presented themselves for assessment and pray that His purposes will be fulfilled in each life.