Transitioning to a new appointment is both an exciting and challenging season for Salvation Army officers. Whether you are moving to a new ministry setting or stepping into a different leadership role, change brings a mixture of emotions and practical needs. To support you through this time of transition, we have gathered a collection of helpful resources designed to equip, encourage, and strengthen you. Our prayer is that these resources will help you navigate your transition with confidence, stay rooted in your calling, and lead well in the place God has prepared for you.
“The Lord your God himself will go before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”— Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)
First 100 Days
The First 100 Days is a practical and pastoral guide created to support Salvation Army officers as they transition into a new corps appointment. Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role or returning to familiar rhythms, this resource offers thoughtful steps for the first three months of ministry—grounded in relationship, discernment, and spiritual health.
Divided into three phases (Days 1–30, 31–60, and 61–90), it includes checklists, leadership practices, pastoral care priorities, and spiritual reminders to help you start well. From setting up your home to building trust with your congregation and staff, The First 100 Days helps you lead with grace, humility, and intentionality from day one.
First 100 Days (PDF)
(For Congregations)
Caring Through Change: A Congregational Guide to Supporting Officer Transitions
Transitions in leadership are sacred moments in the life of a church. Whether you're saying goodbye to a beloved officer or welcoming someone new into your corps family, how you respond makes a lasting impact.
Caring Through Change is a practical and pastoral guide for Salvation Army congregations walking through the change of officer leadership. This resource offers 10 meaningful ways to send officers well and 10 thoughtful ways to welcome incoming officers, filled with ideas that reflect the love, gratitude, and hospitality of Christ.
From writing personal notes and preparing care packages to offering prayer and practical help, Caring Through Change invites congregations to engage the transition with grace, purpose, and hope.
Caring Through Change (PDF)
Farewell Brief Template
The Farewell Brief is a detailed and practical tool to support a smooth leadership transition within Salvation Army corps and ministry units. Created for outgoing officers, this document helps ensure that incoming leaders are well-informed, equipped, and able to step into their new role with confidence.
It includes essential information such as community contacts, program plans, facility access, administrative systems, financial and HR details, and worship schedules. Officers are encouraged to fill it out thoughtfully, update it regularly, and leave both a digital and printed version for their successor.
This is more than just a form—it’s a way to honour the ministry that came before and set up the next leader for success.
Farewell Brief Template (Fillable PDF)
Support from Pastoral Services
As you journey through this season of transition, please know that you are not alone. The Pastoral Services department is committed to walking alongside officers with care, encouragement, and practical support. A member of their team will be in touch to offer tools and guidance to help you navigate the changes ahead.
If you would like to connect sooner, you are warmly encouraged to reach out to Major Barb Stanley, Director of Pastoral Services, at Barb.Stanley@salvationarmy.ca.
You are supported, prayed for, and surrounded by a team that cares deeply about your well-being.
Farewell Inspections of Officers’ Quarters
As part of your transition, officers are reminded that quarters must be cleaned and prepared to a high standard before departure. This is in keeping with The Salvation Army’s Farewell Inspection – Quarters Policy (PY 05.007).
A farewell inspection will be coordinated through your divisional office. For more details, please refer to the full policy, available below.
Operating Policy: Farewell Inspection - Quarters
