Commissioner Edward Hill, Chief of the Staff, and Commissioner Shelley Hill, World Secretary for Women's Ministries, visited The Salvation Army in India from March 29 to April 2, 2025, which was a significant event.
Welcomed warmly at Kolkata Airport by Colonel S. P. Simon, National Executive Officer and Colonel Annamma Simon, National Secretary for Women’s Development, the visit began with a vibrant worship service at Kolkata Central Corps. The meeting, led by Territorial Leaders of India Northern Territory Colonels Vanlalfela and Ropari, featured heartfelt worship through songs, testimonies, and youth presentations. Commissioner Shelley Hill, World Secretary for Women’s Ministries, emphasised unity in Christ, referencing Psalms 133:1, and encouraged the congregation to support and love one another. The leaders honoured Colonel S. P. Simon, National Executive Officer and Annamma Simon, National Secretary for Women’s Development, with the 35 Years Long Service Order Star for their dedicated service. Chief of the Staff reminded the congregation of the core values expected by God: enlistment, obedience, loyalty, discipline, spiritual engagement, and victory in Christ.
On March 31, International Leaders visited the India National Office in Kolkata, where they received a warm welcome from the officers and staff. The day began with a business session that highlighted the office's extensive work in supporting India's Six Territories, a discussion and visiting departments, introducing staff, followed by the fellowship meal with the officers.
In the afternoon, a Spiritual session was held. During this time, the Chief of the Staff offered words of encouragement based on the Bible scripture from Psalms 25:4-10. Commissioner reminded the officers and staff to keep their eyes on Christ, emphasising that even amid life's storms, there is always hope and a guiding hand on our shoulder. He encouraged everyone to faithfully follow where God leads, stating that we have been given the responsibility to look for hope and the guiding hand that directs us toward fulfilling our mission in every challenge we face.
The visit continued on April 1 with a trip to the historic Behala Social Institution, which has been serving the community since 1935. The institution operates various services, including a Girls' Hostel, Home for the Aged, Home for the Blind, and Behala School. The visit featured a ceremonial tree planting and a warm welcome from the children of Behala School.
Throughout their visit, the leaders emphasised The Salvation Army's global strategic framework—People, Mission, and Legacy—and posed a thought-provoking question about the future direction of their mission in India. Their presence brought inspiration, spiritual upliftment, and a renewed sense of mission to all they encountered.
India National Office, Kolkata
