Dear friends,
Even as officers, Salvationists and friends gather this week for the territorial INSPIRE Conference and Congress in Toronto, we are acutely aware that elsewhere in the Army world tragedy has unfolded.
International Headquarters has informed us that a van carrying 15 officers, a two-year-old child and a soldier from the Nigeria Territory was travelling home from Officers Councils’ when they became involved in a horrific accident. The van carrying the Salvationists was crushed between two tractor trailers.
Tragically, up to 11 officers, a soldier and a child have lost their lives. Three more officers remain in the hospital and one in ICU. Most of the officers were from one division.
Commissioner Daniel and Tracey Kasuso, territorial leaders in the Nigeria Territory, have expressed their deep sorrow and are fervently praying for God’s protection over those who remain.
Commissioners Kelly and Donna Igleheart, chief secretary and territorial secretary for women’s ministries in the Malawi Territory, who were guest speakers at the Nigeria Territory Officers’ Councils, have pledged their financial support in the burial of the officers and replacement of the van, which belonged to the children’s home.
Please join Tracey and me in prayer as we keep the loved ones of those lost close to our hearts in these days. May God comfort the bereaved and give peace to those suffering this great loss in the Nigeria Territory.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).
God bless you as you join in prayer.
Commissioners Floyd and Tracey Tidd
Territorial Leaders
Oh Lord, please come through and have your mighty hand upon those who survived. Bring them your everlasting peace and for the ones who are mourning the loss of their loved ones, their pastors and their family members, bring your comfort to them. I pray in your mighty name Jesus! Amen