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The cadets of the Proclaimers of the Resurrection session have been stationed across Canada to participate in the communities and lives of Salvation Army Corps, throughout the summer.  We have asked them to tell us about their experiences so far.  Cadets Ruth and Peter Hickman, along with their children, Levi and Vivian, let us know about life in Kingston Ontario at Kingston Citadel.

Three weeks ago today we completed our 2000 km drive from Winnipeg, Manitoba to Kingston, Ontario for our summer assignment.  Since arriving we have been richly blessed through the people we’ve encountered and in our own spiritual journeys.

When we arrived, we immediately received a warm welcome from the people at Kingston Citadel.  They have offered words of encouragement and hope as they have welcomed us and our children into their prayer groups, play groups, parties, and homes.  As our experience in Kingston broadens to the wider Salvation Army ministry, we continue to sense that we are sincerely being received into the community.  Each week we look forward to leading devotions at the Harbour Light where we worship with the residents, study God’s Word, and join together in prayer.  Though we are strangers, they welcome us each week into their community, greet us by name, and allow us to journey with them for this brief time.

Much of our time is spent visiting with corps and community members.  Often our visits take place in the homes of those we visit, but occasionally we have the chance to sit with those who attend the Community & Family Services drop-in meal.  Whether in the home or around the community table we have been blessed by those who have invited us into their lives.

During our three weeks in Kingston, we have both met some personal challenges as we have faced circumstances that have pushed us beyond our abilities.  At times we have been overwhelmed by fears of failure and weakness, but God continues to remind us that “he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)  It seems that everyday God is teaching us to rely on Him because He promises, “my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)  We thank God for blessing us with this assurance and pray that He will continue to equip us for the work ahead.

As we go forward into the remaining weeks of our summer assignment we are deeply thankful for the blessings we have received. Every day holds some new experience and we look forward to many new blessings ahead as we put our trust in God and rely on Him to live through us.