Campbells warmly welcomed
(Photos by Carolyn Hide)
Colonels Mark and Julie Campbell publicly demonstrated their approach to leadership within The Salvation Army as they humbly kneeled before God at the Mercy Seat at their appointment installation on Sunday afternoon.
Held at Sydney Congress Hall, Colonel Mark was officially installed in his role as Chief Secretary, after his short stint as Secretary for Business Administration. His wife, Colonel Julie was also enrolled as the Training Principal of the School For Officer Training.
“We didn’t put our hands up for these appointments at all … but we will be committed to it,” said Colonel Mark.
Colonel Julie then added: “I feel humbled but honoured and privileged to be investing and to be part of the training [of cadets] and I look forward to what God is going to do in us together as a team.”
In addition to those who attended the service, salvationists across the territory were able to watch the installation of the officers from their computer screens in the comfort of their own homes as the service was live-streamed from the mySalvos website.
At the installation, Territorial Commander, Commissioner James Condon explained his decision to continue the appointment format previously filled by Colonels Richard and Janet Munn. He consulted with The Salvation Army’s world leader, General André Cox about breaking away from traditional mould where the Chief’s Secretary’s wife is appointed as the Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries.
“I totally believe both of these appointments have been made under the guidance of God,” said Commissioner James.
Many of the territory’s cabinet staff were present at the service including, Lieut-Colonel Chris Reid, Assistant Secretary for Personnel, who shared a prayer and Secretary for Program Lieut-Colonel Laurie Robertson, who read a passage from the Bible, 1 Corinthians 3:1-15.
Commissioner James then completed the official installation of the Campbells at the service. Colonels Mark and Julie pledged before the Army and God their commitment to fulfil the requirements of their appointments.
Major Peter Farthing then invited members of the congregation to gather around the Campbells as he gave a prayer of dedication.
The Parramatta Band and Sydney Congress Hall Songsters brought a number of worship items at the meeting. Before the Campbells rose to the stage to bring a response and message, the Parramatta Band gave their own worship message, playing Closer by Gavin Whitehouse.
Colonel Julie thanked Salvos, family and friends who had invested in their discipleship and leadership journey and then honoured God for his calling and empowerment.
Then, Colonel Mark reflected on the passage of scripture from Corinthians that was read out by Colonel Robertson. He spoke about the importance of partnering with God when seeking to advance the kingdom of God.
“God understands that he can do it without us but the incredible part is that he chooses to do it with us,” he said.
He then invited the congregation to surrender themselves at the Mercy Seat as they sang Holy Spirit Rain Down.
The recording of the Campbells installation will be made available on mySalvos in the coming week.
Comments
Hi
When is the video going to be up of the Campbell's welcome and installation