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The Western Territory’s prospective candidates for Salvation Army officership gathered in Southern California on Sept. 7 to begin important components of the application process. This meeting kicked-off a mini-Future Officers’ Fellowship (FOF) event in conjunction with a mini-Divisional Youth Leaders Conference and the Welcome of Cadets meeting.
Traditionally, the FOF weekend has taken place annually in February, but the decision to move toward a combined weekend with the Welcome of Cadets was a logical one.
“This was a transition year, and we look forward to a full FOF weekend in September 2018,” said Captain Joanne Louangamath, Territorial Candidates’ and Recruitment Secretary.
On Sept. 8, the Territorial Youth Department met with the Divisional Youth and Candidates’ Secretaries, discussing the various program opportunities in the territory and providing support and encouragement. That evening, 66 delegates convened for the FOF event.
The following day, the College for Officer Training (CFOT) welcomed the group as they joined cadets and staff for a full day of sharing. Classes included “How to Study the Bible” with Captain Annalise Francis; “The Cadet/Officer Life,” a panel of cadets and officers who answered various questions regarding CFOT; officership and preparing for full-time ministry, led by Major Nancy Helms; and “Preparing for CFOT” with Major Brian Jones and Lieutenant Nathan Darling.
The day included campus tours and a time of worship and inspiration with Territorial Commander Commissioner Kenneth G. Hodder.
The FOF event culminated with the Welcome of Cadets held at the Tustin Ranch Corps.
“It is our prayer that the FOF delegates left encouraged and inspired, and that, perhaps, they received confirmation of God’s will for their lives,” Louangamath said.
