Cadets prepare to be commissioned as Salvation Army officers
Cadets who have spent the past two years studying at The Salvation Army’s School for Officer Training in Sydney. (Photo: Shairon Paterson)
After two years of intensive training, 20 Salvation Army cadets of the Australia Eastern Territory will be commissioned as officers this weekend.
Cadet Lydia Spencer, from Grafton in NSW, says she was initially terrified at the thought of becoming an officer.
“My initial reaction was, ‘no way!’ she says. But since making the decision to go to college, Lydia says she has been shown time after time that God is with her.
“Now, as I am about to leave training college, one thing remains certain and that is God is with me. I do not need to fear what the next part of my journey is because he is beside me.”
Lydia and her husband Steve will begin life as Salvation Army officers in charge of Warwick Corps in south-east Queensland.
Drawn together from all walks of life, the cadets study a diverse range of subjects from theology, pastoral care, community development, public relations and world religions, among many others. Training is also provided in field programs and spiritual formation.
“Throughout this college journey, I have made friends who will be friends for life,” says Cadet Rod Parsons.
“Not only are these people fellow session-mates, but they are people who have stepped out in faith and followed Christ’s call on their lives as well.”
After 25 years working in the engineering trades and managing a Salvation Army Family Store, Rod and his wife Deb will start their new life as Salvation Army officers in charge of Albury Corps in southern NSW.
While entering back into the world after any training or formal education can seem overwhelming, one theme seems to run true for all the cadets. They know that wherever they go, God is with them.
Commissioning of the cadets will be held at the Sydney Convention Centre on 2 December.
Watch Commissioning live on mySalvos at 10am (9am Queensland time), on Sunday 2 December.
Comments
Congratulations to Deb and Rod Parsons - you were a treat to watch today xxx Dana and Scott
congratulations to Rod and Debra on their commissioning. I am proud to be brother of two dedicated officers. I know your work will bring you much fulfillment as it will the people you affect.