What an exciting and wonderful weekend we shared with our Junior Soldiers at Enkonisa Corps. Matthew 18:20 reminds us, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
From 7 to 9 August 2026, the Eastern KwaZulu Natal Division hosted a successful Junior Soldiers Rally and Bible Challenge. This annual divisional event brings children together for fellowship, learning, and spiritual growth. Although we hold these events every year, God reveals Himself in different ways through our children each time. This year, we experienced His presence throughout the weekend as we explored the theme, See and Be Seen.
The event was led by Lieutenant N. Mhlongo, with the support of the Divisional Leaders, Officers, and Young People’s leaders. Corps from across the Division arrived on Friday evening, ready for a weekend of learning, fun, and worship.
The programme began on Saturday morning with a warm welcome, games, and introductions. The children were then divided into three age groups for Bible study sessions designed to help them grow spiritually and deepen their understanding of God’s Word. The focus of the studies was on the fruits of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit. The children were challenged to consider what qualities should be evident in the lives of those who follow Christ.
The Bible Challenge followed and proved to be one of the highlights of the weekend. Eleven teams participated, and it quickly became clear that they had prepared diligently for the competition. The challenge was not only a success but also an encouragement to everyone present. Each participant received a certificate and a gift, ensuring that every child felt valued and recognised. There is no doubt that everyone learned something from the Book of Acts and Adventure Book 1.
It was inspiring to see young people so enthusiastic about a challenge that helped them grow in their knowledge of Christ. Teams worked together, discussed answers, and encouraged one another as they competed for the title of champions. In the end, Dondotha Corps emerged as the champions, Estill Corps secured second place, and Mangeza Corps finished third.
After lunch, the children enjoyed outdoor games, including Shayatafula, which forms part of the fundraising efforts for Children and Youth Ministry resources. The day concluded with a festival programme where the children sang, played timbrels, danced, and recited memory verses.
The weekend concluded on Sunday with a programme led by Zukhanye Mnculwane, a Junior Soldier from Mandeni Corps. Lieutenant N. Mhlongo encouraged the children to display the fruit of the Spirit so that others would see evidence that they are children of God. Drawing from Matthew 10, she reminded them that they are worth more than many sparrows. Although people around us may sometimes fail to see or appreciate us, God, who loves us, sees us at all times.
Captain E. Zola, the Divisional Commander, gave an altar call, and many children responded. He acknowledged that some might not fully understand what was happening at that moment, but reassured them that God would guide them, reveal Himself to them, and provide all that they need.
The weekend was a reminder that God continues to work through children, shaping their faith and helping them discover their value in Him. We thank God for His presence throughout the rally and pray that the lessons learned will continue to bear fruit in the lives of our Junior Soldiers.