The Territorial Orientation Programme was conducted under the leadership of Colonel Indumati Christian, TPWM and supported by Lt. Colonel Rajam Daniel, TSWM, at HRD Centre Trivandrum on the 5th and 6th of January 2022 were memorable days for the woman officers of ISWT. DDWMS, DWDO, DJHL, DLOM, and The Salvation Army Medical Secretaries across all divisions along with woman officers serving in the Territorial Headquarters participated in this programme.
The Morning Devotion was conducted by Chief Secretary Lt. Colonel Daniel J Raj. The talk was based on “Abide in Christ” (John 15:4), the theme of Woman Ministries this year. It was emphasized that without abiding in Christ no one can bear fruit. Chief Secretary also reminded us that it is women who build homes. The session was concluded with prayer and benediction.
Then, Colonel Indumati Christian, TPWM took lectured on the topic “Women in Leadership” and shared what is leadership and the responsibility of a leader. It was also reminded that Lord Jesus appears like an excellent example of leadership. The lecture also pointed out two types of leadership. After the conclusion of the lecture, the officers were divided into groups. Four questions and selected scripture portions were given for discussion. After the discussion, a representative of each group shared their opinion.
Later, Lt. Colonel Rajam Daniel, TSWM delivered her lecture on “Role & Responsibility of Salvation Army Medical Fellowship Secretaries”. The history and activities of the medical fellowship in the Army were explained.
In the afternoon, the presentation of Reports by DDWMs was held. The DDWMs explained the activities of the Women Ministries in their respective divisions during the span of three months. Captain. Raji Jomon, Corps Officer, Trivandrum Central Corps also presented the report of the Corps.
Followed this, Lt. Colonel Snehadeepam Saju TWDO took the class on “Awareness of Woman Development & Fundraising”. Five aspects of women's development and some facts on how woman's development is possible were pointed out. It was also reminded that women's self-esteem is to be encouraged. The instructions for fundraising were also given in the class.
Lt. Colonel Mariyakutty Yohannan, THLS gave her address on Home League and League of Mercy. The significance and activities of the Home League & League of Mercy as well as sending off the concerned reports were mentioned in the talk.
The second day of the programme commenced at 8:30 am the Morning Major Annie John, DDWM, Thiruvalla division led the morning devotion. She talked about a new beginning with reference to the Bible.
Then, TSWM spoke on the subject “Home League bookkeeping & cashbook”. Matters related to the home league register, activities under Women Ministries and budgeting were discussed in detail. A practical exercise was also given for H. L.'s cash book.
Another significance of this programme is an informative lecture by Dr Shoba C.M (Consultant Surgeon, Government General Hospital, Trivandrum) on “Role of Medical Persons in the community” A Doctor's role in the society, the nobility of the medical profession and a medical professional's involvement in social work were pointed out. Awareness about the care that should be taken while confronting fatal diseases was also given through the session. She also shared the instances of the Army's unmatched medical services in society with pride.
Then, Major Shiny Titus, Officer in charge & Coordinator, Anti Human Trafficking, led the session on “Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking”. Issues regarding Human Trafficking, the reasons leading to Modern Slavery and how vigilant we should be were discussed in detail.
Before parting for lunch, the orientation for officers was jointly conducted by the TPWM and TSWM. The job description was presented to the newly appointed DWDOs & TSAMF Secretaries. Followed by lighting the candle, TWDO prayed for them.
Major Saramma Bennymon, Editor took the class on “how to write Articles”. The important things to follow while writing an article as well as the positive impact of catchy headlines on an article were explained in the class.
After the photo session, the final meeting began at 3 pm. Beloved Territorial Leaders Colonels Gabriel and Indumati Christian, were present in the meeting. Lt. Colonel Rajam Daniel, TSWM led the meeting. By quoting “You are the salt of the Earth” Matthew 5:13 in her short speech, TPWM encouraged her woman officers. The Territorial Commander gave the Bible message based on Romans 12:1,2 “offer our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God” and exhorted the congregation. At the end of the meeting, every officer rededicated themselves with prayer. The Territorial Commander concluded the programme with prayer and benediction.
The special orientation programme held on the 5th and 6th of January 2020 was very informative and blessed. This will undoubtedly provide a great spirit and new vision to the Women Ministries of the Territory in the days to come.
All glory to God
Reported by Major Alice Jose, Education Officer, CFOT & Major Sherly Kanakaraj, Officer in Charge, EBLH, Puthencruz, ISWT
