Welcome to New Cadets

On Saturday 31 January, the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory welcomed the six new cadets of the Rauora Rescued session, who will train for the next two years to become Salvation Army officers. A pōwhiri was held at Booth College of Mission to formally welcome the cadets and their families onto campus, followed by a service at Upper Hutt Corps. Opening prayers were offered in English, Tongan, Samoan and Mandarin, reflecting and celebrating the variety of cultures and ethnicities making up the new session.  

Territorial Candidates Secretary Captain Lashana Dale presented the cadets to the territory, noting the significance of their sessional name and its roots in Colossians 1:13.  

‘The God who rescued you now sends you to be his hands, his voice and his presence in communities by caring for people, transforming lives and reforming society by God’s power. Your sessional name is a reminder and a challenge. Because you have been rescued you are now called to help others discover the one who rescues still.’ 

Training Principal Major Chris Collings accepted the cadets for training adding, ‘You are examples of the gracious saving work of God. You have been rescued and it’s great to see evidence of this wonder-working power in you.’  

Commissioner Janine Donaldson shared an inspiring message with the cadets, noting that strong connection between the cadet’s sessional name and The Salvation Army’s ethos and mission.  

‘This is what I love about your name! The Salvation Army’s DNA is deeply tied to the word rescue: rescue from poverty, rescue from addiction, rescue from exploitation, rescue the lost! That’s us! Amen!’ 

Janine concluded by saying, ‘We welcome you with open hearts and we commit to praying for you, encouraging you, supporting you and journeying alongside you. May this season of training be filled with growth and grace and the deep, deep assurance that He who began a good work in your will carry it to completion.’