The theme Following Jesus: Anything, Anytime, Anywhere was evident throughout the annual congress in Newfoundland and Labrador, led by Commissioners Brian and Rosalie Peddle, territorial leaders. Colonels Mark and Sharon Tillsley, chief secretary and territorial secretary for women's ministries, were also introduced and welcomed by the Newfoundland and Labrador Division.

The congress commenced with a look at The Salvation Army's history and heritage. Under the leadership of Rhodie Ann Woodland, the Gowans and Larsson musical Blood of the Lamb was performed before a capacity crowd of 950 on Friday night.

On Saturday morning, the congregation was challenged by a keynote address by Commissioner Brian Peddle, followed by two teaching sessions on cultivating discipleship by Major Julie Slous, corps officer, Cariboo Hill Temple, Burnaby, B.C. Saturday afternoon and evening included an outreach carnival for children and a celebration of praise, which featured children and youth from the division singing, dancing and timbrelling.

The focus of the Sunday morning worship service was Christlikeness, while Sunday evening was a time of commitment. Seven cadets from Newfoundland and Labrador, who are now at Winnipeg's College for Officer Training, as well as two cadets who had summer appointments in the province, were recognized, and Lt-Colonel Sandra Rice, secretary for personnel, said a prayer of dedication for them.

During the Sunday evening service, Commissioner Brian Peddle presented retirement certificates to Lt-Colonels Wayne and Myra Pritchett, divisional leaders, who will retire with 85 years of combined service.

Photo: Children perform at the 2013 Newfoundland Congress