Reinforcements at Blenheim

On Sunday 8 and 15 December 2024, Blenheim Corps celebrated the consecutive enrolments of two new reinforcements: new soldier, Tyler Whitt and new adherent Cheyne Pharland.

A bandsman who has been involved in the corps since childhood, Tyler shared during the ceremony about the moment he knew God was calling him to soldiership. He was sitting in the band and listening to a sermon when he heard a voice telling him it was time for him to be enrolled.

Captain Jacob Howan, corps officer at Blenheim Corps, met with Tyler over several weeks for conversations about membership. Tyler read the book Called to be a Soldier and was invited to bring any questions to their conversations to explore together.

Involved in corps music sections (band and music team), as well as children and youth events and the Christmas Appeal, Cheyne has been contemplating enrolment for a while now. ‘We’ve had several conversations about membership over the last few years. Cheyne desired to be certain of the right timing for taking this step and is confident becoming an adherent is where God is leading her for this season,’ says Captain Emma Howan.

Emma adds that ‘Blenheim Corps was excited to celebrate this step in Tyler’s spiritual journey. It was a special moment for those who have encouraged and walked alongside Tyler to witness his commitment to bringing all he is to serve God and follow where God leads. And we celebrate the work God has done and continues to do in Cheyne’s life. Cheyne has been loved and raised by Blenheim Corps, with many members teaching practical life skills as well as supporting her to grow in faith.’