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The Western Territory added 40 new officers to the ranks of The Salvation Army following the 2015 Commissioning weekend, led by territorial leaders Commissioners James and Carolyn Knaggs.
Cadets received diplomas and certificates in a commencement ceremony June 12 following two years of study at the College for Officer Training (CFOT) at Crestmont. Cadet Maryellen Walters spoke on behalf of the Heralds of Grace Session before Lt. Colonel Doug O’Brien gave the commencement address.
“The door is wide open to Salvationists who see possibilities, who inspire support, and have the tenacity to see something through to completion,” he said.
The Silver Star Banquet allowed cadets to honor their parents and mentors, and Cadet Yohani Ortiz spoke on behalf of her session.
A crowd filled the Pasadena Civic Auditorium that evening for a concert with contemporary Christian artist Michael W. Smith.
On June 13, a number of faith and life workshops challenged delegates to use faith for effective leadership and living ahead of a multicultural celebration that included performances highlighting the diverse talent of the territory.
That evening, the West debuted its preview performance of “Covenant,” a musical written for The Salvation Army’s 150th anniversary congress, Boundless – The Whole World Redeeming. After taking the stage for its first live performance, the cast presented Major Molly Shotzberger with a statue of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet as depicted in John 13. Shotzberger’s story of washing a fireman’s feet at Ground Zero in the days following 9/11 is one of the stories of service featured in “Covenant.”
On June 14, the cadets were commissioned and ordained as lieutenants in The Salvation Army and Lt. Edgar Azueta spoke of the grace that led him to officership. In his message, James Knaggs reminded attendees of all the Army has done in its 150 years.
“When did The Salvation Army begin? I believe in began in the heart of God,” Knaggs said, adding that at this occasion—this 150th birthday—the Army has made a good start. “We’ve got a few more years—are you ready to be The Salvation Army? The Heralds of Grace are ready.”
Knaggs called on everyone present to take the message of grace out into the world, citing Joshua 3:5: “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.”
Thirty-five Western Territory officers were recognized for long service at the start of the afternoon appointment service.
Following Lt. Kelsey Pearce’s delivery as the session representative speaker, Lt. Colonel Judy Smith, gave the charge to the cadets.
“May I submit to you that your success as a Salvation Army officer…will be determined by the grace that you share with the world,” Smith said. “People will want to know, did you change your world?…Did you share love and grace with your community? Did you serve people with the love of Christ?…
“These are going to be the marks of your leadership, your life’s work, this will be the evidence of your ‘Blood and Fire’ officership,” she said.
The 40 Heralds of Grace were then appointed to serve across the Western Territory.
“He’s all powerful; he’s all knowing. The miracle is that he chooses to trust us, and so we express our gratitude to him today,” Knaggs said, acknowledging the many events throughout the weekend. “We are a great Salvation Army, and I thank God for every one of you.”
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