During the first weekend of October, the College for Officer Training and Leadership Development (CFOT) overflowed with people, energy and expectation as delegates from across the Canada and Bermuda Territory gathered for Explore Your Call. Rooted in Jeremiah 1:5, the weekend’s theme was “Made for a Divine Purpose,” celebrating the truth that God knows, calls and equips each person for his purposes. The weekend made room for delegates to consider their purpose and discern if the Lord is calling them into full-time vocational ministry within The Salvation Army. Explore Your Call was supported by CFOT staff and cadets, territorial leadership and candidates’ team members from across the territory.

The weekend began with the more than 70 delegates gathering informally within their respective divisions. Colonel Margaret McLeod, chief secretary, then emphasized in the opening session on Friday afternoon that, “I am made for a divine purpose,” inviting delegates to listen attentively and be willing to courageously step forward as the Lord speaks.

Following a turkey dinner, Major Carson Decker, territorial candidates secretary, offered a session on holy curiosity, using the story of Moses. He challenged participants to consider whether there is something specific they need to turn aside from to fully face the Lord.

Saturday was a full day of teaching, interactive workshops, small-group discussion and personal reflection time. The morning began with a devotional thought from Major Decker followed by sessions throughout the day on topics such as listening to God, discerning calling, the practical application of officership, the training experience and more.

A highlight of the weekend was a panel on Saturday evening, formed by a group of officers from different areas and stages of ministry and life. These individuals gave voice to the beauty of their officership calling. Through their honest responses and stories, delegates were encouraged to trust God’s leading. Panelists reminded delegates that the Lord is faithful and good, that he will work out the situations that feel difficult, and that we are all being invited to respond to a call in some way, so go, “Do something!”

Sunday opened in a time of corporate worship, led by Major Joshua Downer, divisional youth secretary, Ontario Division, and a team of first-year cadets. Cadet Elizabeth Borgela shared a moving vocal selection, and Captain Bhreagh Rowe, divisional candidates secretary, Prairies and Northern Territories Division, openly and humorously communicated what surrender to Jesus looks like. A highlight was the message offered by Commissioner Lee Graves, territorial commander, assuring the congregation that a called life isn’t an easy life, but it is full to overflowing with God’s abundant joy. He challenged those in attendance to faithfully respond with a readiness to go as the Lord leads.

Beyond the sessions, there was evidence of joy, fellowship and community in every space as delegates connected with others from across the territory who share a sincere desire to be faithful to and to follow God’s purposes and plans. Attendees had the opportunity to boldly consider how the Holy Spirit is directing them, and many left with assurance of their next step to lean into their divine purpose.

Photos: Maor Kupershmidt, Tina Byun, Jerimi Jones