The Commissioning weekend commenced on Saturday 13 December at the Springs Civic Centre in Johannesburg, as The Salvation Army Southern Africa Territory gathered for the Academic Achievement and Mission Team Send Off meeting.
The afternoon opened with praise and worship, with hearts lifted toward the Lord through the song that declared, “Oh be lifted, above all other gods.” A spirit of expectancy filled the venue as the Chief Secretary, Lieutenant Colonel Themba Mahlobo, welcomed those present. He extended a special welcome to Commissioners William and Thalitha Langa representing IHQ for the weekend, and the Territorial Leaders from Mozambique, Colonels Jabulani and Fikile Khoza, who were accompanied by the Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministry. The family of the Territorial Leaders, Commissioners Torben and Deise Eliasen, who travelled from overseas were also warmly acknowledged.
The Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries, Lieut Colonel Nokuthula Mahlobo encouraged the Territory to unite in the truth that God is love, echoing the message of the opening song. The Chief Secretary then opened the meeting in prayer, asking God to speak clearly and to be honoured in all that followed.
The Mission Team 2025, concluding a year of learning, growth and service, ministered through creative arts. Their dance presentation reminded the congregation that God is “Bigger Than” every challenge and limitation. Music throughout the service was led by the 2025 Music and Creative Arts Band and the Central Divisional Songsters.
Major Leanne Browski (Mission Team Director Pro-tem) and Neo Kolobe (Mission Team Co-ordinator) shared a brief overview of the Mission Team year, highlighting key aspects of training, development and personal growth. Glory was given to God for the visible work done in the lives of each team member. Mission Team member Lusanda Ntimene shared her testimony, speaking of how God has worked in her life during the year and how she leaves with a deeper walk with the Lord and a clearer understanding of her identity in Christ.
Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Dlamini (Secretary for Personnel) recognised officers who reached service milestones in their officership, as well as those promoted in rank. Captain Owen Mutize (Training Principal & Leader Development Secretary) then highlighted academic achievements, with certificates presented accordingly.
The following promotions were acknowledged:
5 Years of Service (Promoted to the rank of Captain)
Lieutenant Desiré Dathini
Lieutenant Mpumelelo Dathini
15 years of service (Promotion to the rank of Major)
Captain Gabisile Dlamini
Captain Siyabonga Mcineka
Captain Silindokuhle Mbuyisa
Captain Xolisile Nxumalo
Officers recognised for years of long service included:
25 years of service
Major Annanias Nhandara
Major Sengeziwe Nhandara
30 years of service
Major Tersia Finn
Major Mimmie Payne
40 years of service
Commissioner Deise Eliasen
Academic achievements were also celebrated. The following officers received their Higher Certificate in Theology:
Lieutenant Anelisa Hoho
Lieutenant Gcobani Makebesana
Lieutenant Siphokazi Makebesana
Lieutenant Ntobeko Radebe
Lieutenant Nonhlanhla Mbane
Lieutenant Nomfundo Mhlongo
Captain Sanele Ndlovu received a Postgraduate Diploma in Risk Management, and Major Jonathan Payne was recognised for completing a Master of Business Administration.
The Training Principal then introduced the Champions of the Mission to the Territory, and all Cadets received their academic certificates. Two special awards followed. The Colonel Dr Brian Tuck Award for the most improved Cadet was presented to Cadet Andile Matukane, and the Top Student Award was awarded to Cadet Precious Fakude.
The meeting concluded with the congregation singing “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name,” closing the afternoon with praise and gratitude as the Territory gave thanks for God’s faithfulness and looked ahead to the days still to come.