[
]Tirunelveli – ISET, Territorial Congress, marking the centennial death anniversary of Founder General William Booth and 120th anniversary of the Salvation Army mission, in the land of Tamil Nadu, was carefully planned and themed “Fanning the Flame”. The Congress Leaders Commissioners M. C. James and Susamma James, recognized the need of bringing the memories of Staff Captain Devasundaram and his wife who launched the Army operations in Tamil Nadu, alive, in the minds of Salvationists of South Eastern territory and celebrate the victories won in the past. The territory made extensive plans, inviting many others, across the country to join for the congress, scheduled from 9th to 11th November 2012 at Booth Tucker Memorial Church campus, Nagercoil.
Lieut-Colonels Jeffrey and Dorothy Smith, USA Central, had been the special guests to minister for three days programme. More than one thousand Salvationists and Officers were in attendance which includes forty one delegations from neighbouring territories: India Central, India South Western and India Western. Salvationists active in the corps were in attendance. Having the Army flag been unfurled, the congress was declared open by Territorial Commander, Commissioner M. C. James.
In edifying and equipping, for the ongoing effective ministry, Commissioner M. C. stirred up Salvationists with teachings of non-sacramental stand refreshing biblical references, citing how sacramental teachings today, have been divisive influences within churches. While lecturing that he pointed, 'the Life Ambitious', challenged youngsters to possess ambition, for extraordinary achievements, referring outstanding personalities today. Jeffrey and Dorothy enthused and inspired every one with their Bible Studies and Army doctrines. The other lectures on the line were 'Mercy Seat' by Chief Secretary, Lieut-Colonel Gabriel I Christian, 'Salvationists' Ethics' by Lieut-Colonel Davidson Varghese, National Secretary, and 'the Use and Misuse of Modern Technology by Dr. Johnson Raj.
Having received enough input for the continuing ministry, they remained for the spiritual treat, during evenings at 6.00, bringing how God enables to take giant steps from elementary to aggressive ministry in all levels in extending His Kingdom. The sermons were suitably illustrated with quotes, incidents and ministerial experiences.
Delegates were seated separately the next day to focus teaching particularly on the issues impacting young people while senior comrades were encouraged to mature in Christ with more biblical teachings. The young people paid close attention to the characteristics of Joseph, demonstrated by Dorothy. Before public meeting begun, foundation stone was laid (pictured) for a Library and Museum as memorial with inscription and picture of Staff Captain Devasundaram and his wife.
The congress on Sunday concluded with holiness meeting, joining with congregation of Booth Tucker Memorial Church, enjoying the band and testimonies of delegates who expressed how congress brought countless blessing and transformation in their lives. The appeal, before conclusion of spiritual meetings experienced an overwhelming response, and had scores of souls kneeling and feeling, healing at the mercy seat.
The theme song for the congress and revival songs in between the sessions had been a real inspiration to stay blessed. The Fanning the Flame congress concluded with much needed blessing that everyone had joy in their hearts and songs in the mouth and departed saying “To God be the Glory”.
