The Salvation Army National Office in Kolkata organized a training event for local officers at The Salvation Army HRD Centre in Chennai from August 5 to August 7, 2024. The event was inaugurated on August 5 by Colonel S. P. Simon, the National Executive Officer. The keynote address was delivered by Commissioner Daniel Raju Dasari, the Territorial Commander of IWT, who emphasized the vital role that local officers play in their respective corps.
The second session was led by Colonel Vanlal Fela, the Territorial Commander of India Northern Territory. He highlighted current needs such as financial strengthening, membership strengthening, infrastructure enhancement, equipment improvement, and effective program implementation. He also stressed that local officers should cultivate strong relationships with corps officers, foster teamwork among local officers, and build good connections with soldiers while practising care, concern, and servant leadership.
Colonel S. P. Simon explained the legal standing of the Salvation Army in India to all local officers. Following this, Commissioner Daniel Raju Dasari discussed the spiritual and exemplary life expected of local officers. He stated that their lives should be founded on scripture and urged them to be sober-minded, not quick-tempered, avoid quarrels, and embody gentleness and hospitality.
On August 6, we began the day with morning devotion at 9:00 am, led by the host Territorial Commander, Colonel Yaqoob Masih of the India Central Territory. At 9:30 am, Colonel Vanlal Fela began a new session focusing on corps leadership and the role of the corps council. Commissioner Daniel Raju Dasari elaborated on the local officer's role in pastoral care and corps development, and Colonel S. P. Simon conducted a class on community engagement and outreach evangelism.
After lunch, Colonel Annamma Simon presented a class on the Role of Women in the Salvation Army, emphasizing the importance of communication and active listening. Lt. Colonel M. Stalin, the Chief Secretary, held a session on corps financial management. He discussed strategies for financial management, budgeting, and planning, stressing the need to identify resources, accountability, and asset management.
On the final day, morning devotion was led by Colonel Annamma Simon. Colonel S. P. Simon addressed the topic of Corps and Holistic Ministry, explaining the challenges of preaching the gospel to outside communities. Commissioner Daniel Raju Dasari led a session on strategic planning and resource management, discussing the different categories of soldiers, adherents, junior soldiers, and cradle members, and how to engage with various communities by spreading love.
Colonel Vanlal Fela conducted a session on Corps Program Management for Inclusive Congregation, focusing on the inclusion of marginalized and elderly individuals, encouraging youth participation, and enhancing spirituality within the corps.
As we neared the conclusion of our training sessions, all the delegates shared their thoughts and experiences regarding the national local officer seminar. We concluded the event with the song "Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah," led by Colonel Annamma Simon, followed by a final prayer and benediction given by Colonel Vanlalfela Chawnghlut.
Reported by Milind Kharat, Hadapsar Corps Secretary, Pune Division, India Western Territory
