|PIC1|The Salvation Army’s Chief of the Staff Commissioner Israel L. Gaither, and Commissioner Eva D. Gaither have been given a rousing welcome as they arrived in Tanzania to lead a series of Commissioning meetings.

A short act of worship was led by the Chief along with an enthusiastic crowd of Salvationists and friends. The international leaders are reported to have given encouragement to all those gathered to witness the promotion of four Tanzania officers to the rank of majors.

The integration of the Social Services and Projects Department with Evangelism and Mission was highlighted as visits were made to Mbagala Home for Girls – where the residents have been rescued from situations of abuse or abandonment – and Matumaini School for Disabled Children, report the Salvation Army HQ.

The main event of the international leaders’ visit saw a large congregation gather for the commissioning, ordination and appointing of the 10 cadets of the Visionaries Session.

The cadets, in turn, took up their Affirmation of Faith with “great boldness”, the Salvation Army report.

|TOP|A sense of deep personal commitment was offered by each cadet as they were ordained, commissioned and promoted to the rank of Captain by the Chief of the Staff and again, later, as each cadet received the gift of a Bible during the singing of united songster brigades.

In his Bible message the Chief reminded the newly-commissioned captains that true visionaries are bold, creative and have an unusual faith which is demonstrated in action. 'Do not think small,' he challenged them. 'Keep on believing!'

In his Bible message the Chief of the Staff encouraged the new captains to take for themselves four bold statements of the apostle Paul – 'I have', 'I know', 'I can' and 'God will' – and to hold onto these truths throughout their ministry.

As the meeting drew to its conclusion, Youth and Candidates Secretary Major Joy Paxton appealed for others in the congregation to open their hearts and their ears to hear and respond to God's call to officership.