A cloud of witnesses: Why we gather for Commissioning

Three officers reflect on their Commissioning experiences and the impact of having friends, family and fellow members supporting them.

Together 26 takes place from Friday 3 to Sunday 5 July at the ICC in Birmingham. It is a weekend to gather, celebrate and reflect on who God has called us all to be as The Salvation Army – united in hope, faith and purpose. 

On Sunday 5 July, we will gather for the ordination and commissioning of the cadets of the Keepers of the Covenant session. 

Three officers commissioned in recent years look back at what having this cloud of witnesses meant to them.

Lieutenant Georgia Smith 
Sherburn Hill

After the sacred and beautiful moments of Covenant Day a few days before, the atmosphere as I waited to enter Commissioning was a mix of excitement and nerves. I was aware of the weight of responsibility of spiritual leadership, but also excited to see what God was going to do.

Knowing that I was not doing it alone was such a comfort. I was stepping into this new adventure with God and surrounded by friends and family – a ‘cloud of witnesses’ (Hebrews 12:1) who were standing by me and cheering me on as they witnessed my ordination and commissioning. It was so encouraging to know that those in the room and online were supporting me and my session-mates in prayer and that we have been covered in prayer since.

Lieutenant John Melia 
Street

My personal journey has not always been straightforward, and there have been many people who encouraged me along the way. Being able to stand on the platform at Commissioning surrounded by some of those people made the moment even more special.

Having now experienced commissioning from both perspectives – as a participant and as a supporter – I recognise the sacred and spiritual connection it creates. Even two years on, I have met people who were present that day and who continue to pray for me, just as I pray for those I had the privilege to support.

Lieutenant Paul Sass 
Aberystwyth

Covenant Day at William Booth College and Commissioning at Together 2024 will always hold the greatest of significance for me.

Despite all I was facing with my health, the Lord realised his will in granting me the strength and grace to experience the most sacred of moments with my wife, my family, those gathered in Newport and, of course, my beloved sessional colleagues the Defenders of Justice! For the actual words of commissioning to be spoken in Welsh was a blessing that made that humbling, public moment before God even more impactful.