A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S A LVAT I O N A R M Y S O U T H ER N T ER R I TO R Y
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ISSUE 9
CHAMPIONS OF THE MISSION Cadets Answer Their Calling
BY BR AD ROWL AND The Champions of the Mission session of cadets arrived at Evangeline Booth College this summer for a two-year period of intensive training in preparation for becoming officers of The Salvation Army. On Saturday, August 12, the session received its public welcome at the conclusion of the 2023 Southern Territorial Bible Conference. “What a privilege it is for us to be able to celebrate the arrival of this new session of cadets while we’re wrapping up a great week of Bible Conference,” Colonel Deborah Sedlar, chief secretary, said at the outset of the welcome. “It’s as if we’re asking God to put the finishing touches on an already wonderful week. This meeting is about worshiping our great and mighty God in joyous celebration. Celebration for all that has taken place this week, and celebration of this next session of cadets.” The session of 18 cadets includes 11 first-generation Salvationists from across the USA Southern Territory. The session name is shared across the Salvation Army world, forming a long-lasting bond, and Cadet Jeremy Warf received the session flag from Commissioner Kelly Igleheart, territorial commander, and Major Anthony Juliana, president and principal of Evangeline Booth College, for its first public posting. A meaningful time of prayer, led by Commissioner Donna Igleheart, set a powerful tone for the evening with a focus on both the Champions of the Mission session and for God’s will across the Southern Territory. “God has brought us here to welcome, to
Photo Credit: Laura Dake
celebrate, to consecrate the Champions of the Mission session,” said Commissioner Donna Igleheart. “We do not know entirely all that went into making this day possible, but we do know that God has brought this new session here. He made a way, even when the hurdles seemed too great to overcome. We thank Him for His faithfulness.” An offertory was collected for the Nigeria Territory, and the Southern Territorial Youth Band performed before, during, and after the welcome
session. In addition, the Evangeline Booth College cadets and staff ministered in music, with Commissioner Kelly Igleheart delivering a poignant message. The centerpiece was Acts 9 and the story of Saul’s conversion, though he intentionally spotlighted Ananias. He referred to Ananias as a “reluctant champion of the mission” and placed that “Champions...” continued on page 2
New General Welcomed at IHQ
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FROM IHQ C O M M U N I C AT I O N S On Monday August 7, 2023, Salvation Army officers and employees welcomed General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries) to International Headquarters (IHQ, London) with rapturous applause. Flag-bearers escorted the new international leaders into the building, accompanied by the IHQ Staff Band playing “We have a gospel.” As members of the public stopped outside to enjoy the historic occasion, hand-in-hand, the General and Commissioner Bronwyn were welcomed by Chief Secretary Colonel Peter Forrest, who also greeted delegates from the International College for Officers. He said, “General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham, following the High Council in May, we believe the world leapt for joy! The 22nd General of The Salvation Army is now on duty.”
Photo Credit: IHQ Communications
The congregation sang “Lord, I come before your throne of grace” before Commissioner Jane Paone brought everyone together in prayer. She said, “Loving heavenly Father, you are our faithful God in whom we place our trust completely. We pray for our new international leaders as they take on their new responsibilities. They are yours, dedicated to your service. We believe you will grant “New General...” continued on page 2