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We began our morning with a delicious breakfast before heading out for an afternoon at Officers’ councils.  Our bodies were certainly nourished, but our souls even more as Commissioner Ivan Lang fed us with bread for our souls.  The Commissioner challenged all Officers to come before our Holy God as we are, and move out in mission as we seek to live our lives authentically before God and the World.  Commissioner is a gifted story teller and a preacher who is passionate about holiness, and his vim and vigour made him a delight to listen to as he brought a message from the Lord.

Cadet Robert Jeffery shared his testimony about his own journey towards officership and the privilege of answering the call of Jesus to minister in His name.  Rob’s energy and enthusiasm were evident as he offered listeners a reflection on why he would make a covenant with God to serve Him supremely all his days.

Toe-taping and hand-clapping accompanied the male cadets as they provided a rousing rendition of “The Good Lord Brought Him Through”.  People especially enjoyed the verse, “Have you heard about William Booth, the trouble that he knew.  With 1500 Corps, and Commissioners too, but the good Lord brought him through”.

The day finished well into the evening with inspiring testimony, prayer, and wonderful music at the “All the Nations” concert, focusing on God’s global work through The Salvation Army.  The testimony was punctuated by stories of people who were touched by the work of the Army when they were newcomers to Canada.  All praise to God for His faithful servants in the field.  Music was provided by the Ontario Central East Divisional Youth Band and Youth Chorus, “Devotion in Motion” from Hope Community Church, A Timbrel brigade from North York Temple, and the Korean Corps Songsters.  John Mak, 12 year old piano virtuoso, joined the DYB for their rendition of “Christ is the Answer”.  It was a moving sight to see flags from around the world providing an honour guard to the devotional that Commissioner Lang brought as he called us into the world behind those who have gone ahead with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Cadets were tired out, but came to life on the bus ride back to the Radisson Hotel as they recited their doctrines by memory, a practice for tomorrow night when they’ll do it in front of 1200 people.  I’m posting, and then off to bed, but only with one eye closed.  Rumour has it that cadet Anne-Marie Dagenais is up to tricks, and I can anticipate a practical joke at sometime through the night.  In an attempt to throw her off I offered Mj. Rice’s room number as the sacrificial Lamb.