THE Chief of the Staff (Commissioner Brian Peddle) and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle (World Secretary for Women's Ministries) visited the Swedish capital, Stockholm, to install Commissioners Johnny and Eva Kleman as leaders of the Sweden and Latvia Territory. They also welcomed cadets of the new session, the Messengers of the Gospel.
The meetings took place at Stockholm Temple Corps (church) and they started with officers councils followed by a coffee break and time to mingle.
The new cadets marched into the hall before being presented to hundreds of officers, soldiers and friends in the congregation and sharing their testimonies.
The meeting was filled with joy, laughter and moments of spontaneity such as when a group of young people – participants in 'Football for All' – approached the platform and asked to 'have a word'. This was followed by several young men affirming a cadet (trainee Salvation Army officer), their former leader, and told him they would miss him very much.
The installation of the territorial leaders was framed by energetic songs from VasaGospel choir and music from Stockholm South Citadel Band.
Before conducting the ceremony the Chief of the Staff read a message from General André Cox, who happily recommended the new leaders. They pledged loyalty to the work of the Lord in Sweden and Latvia before kneeling at the mercy seat. The presentation of new territorial leaders prompted a loud and sustained applause from the congregation.
Major Leif Öberg represented the territory with words of welcome before, on behalf of the Christian Council of Sweden, director Olle Kristensson greeted the new leaders.
Commissioner Eva Kleman (Territorial President of Women's Ministries) pointed out in her testimony that The Salvation Army is stronger together. It may be a small denomination in Sweden and Latvia, she said, but little David beat the giant! The important thing, she explained, is what we are and what we do to achieve the result in the territory's vision of Jesus to All.
In his Bible message, Territorial Commander Commissioner Johnny Kleman spoke about being made bold by God and the importance of following God's calling. He called on the congregation to spread the gospel, saying: 'Everyone can be an evangelist.' Following an altar call from Lieut-Colonel Kjell Olausson (chief secretary) many took the opportunity to meet with God at the place of prayer.
Before the band closed the meeting with 'This is my Story', Commissioner Rosalie Peddle offered a prayer of blessing for the new territorial leaders, the Salvation Army in Sweden and Latvia and all people involved in the Lord's work.
Report by Lars Beijer
