In one or two paragraphs, please describe your calling to officership.

I first felt God calling me to become an officer in The Salvation Army when I was 16. It was an unforgettable experience—I felt the Holy Spirit strongly inside me, burning within, showing me that God had a special plan for my life. I understood He was asking me to surrender my life to Him and serve Him full-time by sharing His love with others.

At first, it wasn’t an easy decision. I had moments of doubt and questions. But again and again, God confirmed that the call was real. It wasn’t just a feeling in the moment—it was His clear plan for me. When I finally accepted His will, I felt a deep joy and peace I had never experienced before. I’m thankful God called me, and I’m excited to continue following Him as an officer.

How has your time at the College for Officer Training (CFOT) been transformative?

My time at CFOT has been transformative. It has given me the space and guidance to grow intentionally in my spiritual life. Through rediscovering and practicing spiritual disciplines, I’ve learned how to stay grounded in God, even during busy seasons. This has been a special time to deepen my relationship with Him and build habits that will strengthen my ministry moving forward.

It has also helped me grow in my ability to minister to others through hands-on opportunities, training in practical skills like counseling, and greater self-awareness. These experiences have shaped me into a more faithful, compassionate, and prepared servant of God.

What was your favorite part of being a cadet?

The best part of being a cadet has been experiencing this journey alongside others. Even though we are all at different stages of life, come from different places, and have different stories of how God has transformed our lives, we are united by the same calling to serve Him. We support, encourage, and lift each other up, and we have formed a true family. This support network will continue with us into our future ministry as officers. It has also been a great blessing to learn from the testimonies and experiences of the officers who serve at the College and who walk alongside us cadets during this time.

What does being a “Champion of the Mission” mean to you? 

To me, being a “Champion of the Mission” means faithfully serving God by proclaiming the transformative gospel of Jesus Christ, leading others to salvation, and helping them grow in a deeper relationship with Him. This calling is at the heart of the mission of The Salvation Army: to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. As a Champion of the Mission, I am committed to living this out daily—giving my heart, energy, and life to sharing God’s love, serving others with compassion, and advancing His kingdom wherever He leads me.

What are you most looking forward to doing or experiencing in your first appointment?

What I am most looking forward to in my first appointment is being with the people—building relationships with the congregation and the community. As an officer, I believe my main role will be to lead others to Christ through service, discipleship, and compassionate ministry. I am excited to be present, available, and faithful, creating spaces where people feel welcome and drawn closer to God. I look forward to listening to their stories, understanding their needs, and walking alongside them in their journey of faith. I also hope to keep growing in leadership skills, stay grounded in my relationship with God, and apply everything I have learned during my time at CFOT.

What advice or encouragement would you give to someone who feels called to be an officer but hasn’t answered the call yet?

I would encourage them to pray and ask God specifically about their calling—trusting that He will bring confirmation in His perfect time. There is nothing greater than experiencing the peace and joy that comes from walking in God’s will.

When we say “yes” to His call, we find a sense of completeness and purpose that nothing else can give. Trust that God is faithful, and He will lead you every step of the way.

Do you have a favorite Bible verse to share with readers? What makes it meaningful to you?

One of my favorite Bible verses is Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This verse reminds me that no matter what happens, God is always at work for my good when I trust Him and follow His calling. When I surrendered my dreams and chose to walk in His purpose, I found true peace. I can look back and see how God has been faithful in every step, using everything to shape and guide me closer to Him.

What person from Salvation Army history is inspiring to you? Or what current Salvation Army leader is inspiring to you? Why?

A person from Salvation Army history who inspires me is Commissioner Samuel Logan Brengle. My first real encounter with his life and teachings was when I was 15, participating in a church Congress where I was part of the musical “Brengle: The Ambition of My Life.” Later, when I read about Brengle’s testimony of holiness, I deepened my desire to seek God more seriously. I became a soldier and began developing a devotional and prayer life, as well as growing in ministry and leadership. Brengle’s passion for reaching souls, his experience and testimony of God’s love, and his humility in service continue to inspire me today as I follow God’s call on my life.

How can anyone – any average reader of The War Cry – be a champion of God’s mission wherever they are?

Anyone can be a champion of the mission right where they are by living faithfully to God every day. It starts with being available to Him—listening to the Lord’s voice, loving others with His love, and sharing the hope of Jesus through our words and actions. You don’t need a special title or position to make a difference. You just need a willing heart. When you serve with kindness, meet needs without discrimination, and shine God’s light in your community, you are championing His mission.