The Salvation Army’s India Central Territory was blessed by the highly anticipated visit of General Brian Peddle and Commissioner Rosalie Peddle (World President of Women’s Ministries) from 25 to 29 January.
Territorial Commander Colonel Yaqoob Masih welcomed the international leaders at a meeting for the wider territorial leadership team in Vijayawada. The General spoke of the significance of the South Asia Zone in the international Salvation Army and the importance of the six Indian territories. Basing his words on Hebrews chapter 11, he urged the officers to have faith like Abraham and Sarah, saying, ‘Be obedient to God, have faith in God, be ready to surrender yourself to God.’
Thousands of people came from across the territory for a public meeting in Bapatla the following day. The international leaders were joyfully received with song and a Kolattam dance performed by the young people. The General challenged the congregation with words from Colossians 3:1-15, with a reminder that God raised up The Salvation Army to bear fruit. Hundreds of people rededicated their lives to Jesus.
Do you face the world with fear or faith?
The Youth Congress on 27 January opened with a traditional dance performed by young people from Tenali Division. Captain Charles Chalrimawia, Private Secretary to the General, shared his personal testimony of coming to know Jesus and dedicating his life to officership. He emphasised that God needs young and talented people to share the love and light of Jesus.
The congregation also heard from Mr Marshall Prem, accountant at territorial headquarters (THQ), about his miraculous experience of healing and his decision to join The Salvation Army for full-time ministry.
The General and Commissioner Peddle gave a joint message, asking ‘Do you face the world with fear or faith?’.
Young people at the mercy seat
The officers’ councils in Tenali were an opportunity for active and retired officers to hear from the General about the work of the international Salvation Army.
More than 4,000 women gathered at Central Corps (church), Eluru Division, for a special congress. The day featured performances from both Eluru and Hyderabad divisions, and from the women officers of THQ. Commissioner Rosalie Peddle shared a powerful Bible message, speaking of the grace poured out by God and the need to share this with others.
While in Eluru, the General met with officers to answer questions on the book Called to be a Soldier.
Richly blessed
The international leaders concluded their visit to the territory with a holiness meeting at Vepery Corps. Commissioner Rosalie Peddle expressed gratitude for the days spent in the territory, reflecting on how God had been moving and speaking, while the General gave a powerful message on the life of Joshua. In Spirit-filled moments of dedication many people knelt at the mercy seat, submitting their lives to the Lord Jesus.
In answer to many fervent prayers, God richly blessed the territory with his presence during the visit of the international leaders.
Photos from the visit are available to download from the IHQ Flickr stream.
