Western Territory Extends a Warm Welcome to the Champions of the Mission

The Western Territory proudly greeted its newest session of cadets, known as the Champions of the Mission, at the Welcome of Cadets event on September 8th. The event took place at the College for Officer Training (CFOT) located in Crestmont, Rancho Palos Verdes, California. The occasion was presided over by territorial leaders Commissioners Douglas and Colleen Riley.

The Cadet Chorus, including the Defenders of Justice, set the tone with an uplifting rendition of "Telling Your Story" by Alan Williams and Simon Clampton. Chief Secretary Colonel Eddie Vincent, drawing inspiration from Matthew 9:37-38, addressed the attendees gathered on the lawn, overlooking the Pacific Ocean's serene sunset. He emphasized the significance of those who have chosen to respond to the call and dedicate their lives as officers in The Salvation Army.

The event continued with a warm welcome from Major Jennifer Masango, Territorial Candidates’ and Recruitment Secretary, and divisional leaders representing the cadets. Each session member was introduced, and they shared their enthusiasm for their training and future officership.

Here is the list of the Champions of the Mission and their respective home corps:

Southern California Division:

Cadet Rogelio Aguilar from the San Luis Obispo (California) Corps

Cadet Maria Navarro from the San Luis Obispo (California) Corps

Cadet David Aviles from the Riverside (California) Corps

Cadet Zechariah Guess from the Whittier (California) Corps

Cadet Jillian Kistan from the Tustin Ranch (California) Corps

Cadet Joshua Kistan from the Tustin Ranch (California) Corps

Cadet Sharon Reimers from the San Bernardino (California) Corps

Intermountain Division:

Cadet Brianna Lamb from the Grand Junction (Colorado) Corps

Cadet Jon-Marc Lamb from the Grand Junction (Colorado) Corps

Hawaiian and Pacific Islands Division:

Cadet Antonio Rio from the Hawaii Kroc Center

Territorial Commander Commissioner Douglas Riley had the honor of presenting the session flag to Cadet Antonio Rio, who had felt the call to officership at a tender age. Commissioner Riley emphasized the symbolism and importance of the flag, connecting it to spiritual themes of purity, the blood of Jesus Christ, and the fire of the Holy Spirit. He urged the flag bearer to carry the message of The Salvation Army's mission with responsibility and dedication.

The program included music performances by Sophia Simoes, the Tustin Ranch Band, and the Cathedral City Youth Praise Team. Major Emmanual Masango shared highlights of the summer's youth activities across the Western Territory, showcasing the positive impact of The Salvation Army's programs on young lives.

Cadet Jon-Marc Lamb shared a heartfelt testimony, recounting the transformation of two Afghan boys who found love and care through his parents' actions. This experience inspired his own journey toward officership.

The event concluded with a message from Commissioner Colleen Riley, who reminded the cadets of their mission to love, follow, and make disciples of Jesus. She emphasized the importance of daily commitment to following Jesus and encouraged them to be bold in sharing the gospel with the world.

The Champions of the Mission stood as a commitment to their calling, and the event closed with a song led by CFOT Training Principal Major Nigel Cross and a benediction by CFOT Director of Education and Continuing Education Major Stacy Cross. Music throughout the event was provided by the Tustin Ranch Band and the Cathedral City Youth Praise Team.