The 2026 Mission Team journey has already proven to be one filled with growth, discovery, challenge, and purpose. True to the slogan, “Where Transformation Meets Adventure,” the team has experienced transformation not only in ministry, but also within themselves. Over the past three months, the entry and training phase became more than just preparation for ministry; it became a journey of learning, unlearning, and growth in both mind and heart.
Rooted in the mission of The Salvation Army—to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs—the Mission Team exists to raise young people who are spiritually grounded, mission-minded, and ready to serve communities with compassion and integrity. Through every session, activity, and encounter, the team has been intentionally equipped to live out this mission while embracing the vision of holistic ministry.
The training phase began with opportunities for the team to build relationships and establish a strong sense of unity. The Youth Department facilitated a meaningful “Get to Know” session, creating space for members to connect beyond introductions and begin understanding one another on a deeper level. These moments laid the foundation for trust, teamwork, and authentic fellowship within the group.
The Mission Team leadership also guided the team through Orientation Week and Character Development Week. During this time, members were challenged to grow in areas such as focus, perseverance, awareness, integrity, and creativity. These sessions not only encouraged personal growth but also strengthened the team dynamic, reminding members that ministry begins with character before it is seen on a platform.
As part of the programme, the team received spiritual and ministry formation through various sessions designed to equip them for practical ministry. Members were trained in sermon preparation and presentation, authentic worship, discipleship, spiritual disciplines, evangelism, testimony preparation, and leading effective Bible studies. Sessions on youth ministry, children’s ministry, child protection, and protective behaviours also helped prepare the team to minister responsibly and effectively across different age groups and ministry settings.
Alongside spiritual development, the programme also focused on personal growth and emotional well-being. Through self-awareness sessions, discussions on dealing with past trauma, and Mercy Seat counselling, members were encouraged to reflect honestly on their own journeys while allowing God to shape and heal areas of their lives. This year also introduced a new initiative called Headspace Hangout, a Friday session dedicated to open and honest conversations about life, faith, struggles, and growth. It quickly became a valuable space for encouragement, vulnerability, and support within the team.
The team also received practical leadership and skills training through workshops in study skills, meeting leadership, cultural intelligence, creative communication, sound and IT, and child worker training. These sessions reminded the team that ministry today requires both spiritual depth and practical excellence in order to serve effectively in diverse communities and ministry spaces.
One of the significant highlights of the training phase was the continued partnership with Heartlines. Through the “What’s Your Story?” session, members explored the power of storytelling as a tool for understanding, reconciliation, and trust-building. Heartlines also facilitated “Fathers Matter,” a session that emphasised the importance of active and positive father figures within families and communities. These conversations challenged the team to think deeply about relationships, healing, and the role ministry plays in restoring people’s lives.
The learning journey extended beyond the classroom as the team was given opportunities to observe ministry in different Corps and settings. Through fellowship visits and ministry exposure at Orlando Corps, South Rand Corps, Gauteng Corps, and Peart Memorial Corps, as well as Youth Fridays at Soweto Central Corps and South Rand Corps, members were able to see the beauty and diversity of ministry in action. These experiences gave the team practical insight into leadership, worship, fellowship, and community engagement within different contexts.
A major milestone came on 1 May when the team officially entered the ministry phase. This marked the beginning of putting training into practice and stepping fully into active ministry. Since then, the team has already ministered at Witbank Corps and Daveyton Corps, while also leading Home League ministry at Duduza Corps. These opportunities allowed members to apply what they had learned while serving alongside local officers and congregations.
The Mission Team has also embraced the importance of practical service within communities. At Krugersdorp Family Care Centre, members assisted with sorting jumble, helping in the store, serving in the kitchen, and working in the garden. The team also visited Ethembeni Children’s Home, where they assisted with cleaning and spent time playing and interacting with the children. These moments reflected the heart of The Salvation Army, demonstrating the love of Christ not only through words, but also through practical acts of care and service.
As the journey continues, the team looks ahead with excitement and expectation for the many ministry opportunities still to come. God is clearly moving in and through the Mission Team, shaping young people who are willing to serve wholeheartedly and carry His love into communities, Corps, and spaces that need hope.
Indeed, this journey continues to remind us that mission is truly a place “Where Transformation Meets Adventure.”