“Servant in God's Vineyard” theme-based training on Servant Leadership for the selected officers from six Indian territories was conducted by the India National office at Hotel Ramada Chennai from 30th October – 2nd November 2022, with Commissioner Suresh Pawar being the chief guest and main resource person, under the leadership of Colonel S. P. Simon, National Executive officer, supported by Captain Aseervadam Cheeli. This training was inaugurated on 30th September 2022 by the international secretary inviting the attention of the delegates to focus on their servanthood to make a realistic effect to be like Jesus.
24 delegates from six Indian territories from various positions took part in this special training aimed to develop Christian servant leaders to be role models and to serve the people with Christ-like nature. Servant Leadership has been the medium of Jesus Christ which impacted the people with love and service. In order for the Salvation Army leaders to reach the people in need and the unreached, the National office made this training possible to make the mission more intimate with people and to proclaim the gospel in action, which was led by Colonel S. P. Simon, National Executive Officer.
Commissioner Suresh Pawar, International Secretary with his illuminating lectures helped the delegates to understand the theological foundations, Characteristics of Servant for the Church Leadership, Servant Leadership & the Christian Identity, and Personal Spiritual Life of Leaders. The Commissioners' innovative style and sessions delivered provided new insight into understanding the spiritual thoughts and the key contents. The session related to Characteristics of Servants for the Corps leadership based on The Salvation Army Songbook was commendable with seven inspiring factors. Every session had its own specialty and creativity.
Colonel S. P. Simon, National Executive Officer presented sessions on the essential elements of servant leadership, Jesus- the role model of servant leadership, mentoring people with servant leadership, and shaping communities with servant leadership. His versatile presentations supported the delegates to know deeper and wider. His illustrative explanations also helped me to understand clearly.
Captain Aseervadam Cheeli, led the group discussions helping the delegates to assess their leadership and their needs, and coming up with their individual plan where they would meet and lead the people through their servant leadership. Colonel Yaqoob Masih, Territorial Commander, ICT, and Lt. Colonel M. Stalin, Chief Secretary - ICT led the morning devotions on the first two days. During the final meeting, Commissioner Suresh Pawar delivered an inspiring message through which the delegates renewed their call and commitment to spread the gospel and build the kingdom of God through servant leadership. The delegates had the opportunity to enjoy team building through a short city tour. India National office express thanks to India Central territorial leadership for their support and for allowing Major K. Prasad, to be the liaison officer who made all the arrangements very effectively.
Captain Aseervadam Cheeli, Executive Secretary to National Leadership, India Nationa Office, Kolkata
