Colonel Ivan Rock was recently appointed as the National Chief Secretary for The Salvation Army in the United States. Along with his wife, Colonel Christine, he has served as an officer for more than 35 years in a variety of appointments in the Eastern Territory.

How did you experience God’s calling to officership? 

For reasons I have never fully understood, tents have always held special significance in my spiritual journey. At the age of eight, I was camping with a group of young boys when a counselor shared the gospel story. In that moment, sitting in an old, smelly tent, I accepted Jesus as my Savior.

A little over a decade later, I found myself attending a series of camp meetings. The camp lacked a building large enough to accommodate everyone, so we gathered in a rented circus tent pitched in the middle of a field. Once again, I was sitting in an old, smelly tent. It was there that I clearly heard God’s call to serve Him as a Salvation Army officer.

What did you do to prepare yourself for officership prior to entering CFOT? 

Although I grew up in The Salvation Army, receiving the call to officership made me realize that I was not truly prepared for the journey ahead. The significance of serving God felt overwhelming, and I questioned how anyone could be completely ready for such a responsibility. To prepare, I immersed myself deeply in God’s Word. I dedicated considerable time to prayer. And I made it a priority to become as involved as possible in my local church/corps. I believe the most profound and impactful ministry within The Salvation Army happens at the local church/corps, and I wanted to be fully engaged in that environment.

What has helped you stay faithful to your calling through your years of service? 

Serving as a Salvation Army officer has brought both rewards and challenges. There are days when I feel completely secure in God’s hands, assured of His guidance and presence. There are also days that are undeniably trying. Even in these difficult times, I remain deeply aware of God’s presence and His unwavering love. The words of Matthew 28:20 remind me that He is “with (me) always, to the very end of the age” (NIV).

I am honored to serve as a Salvation Army officer. If given the chance, I would choose this path all over again.

Illustration by Richard Chance