New Appointments, New Day
by Colonel Richard Munn
History is replete with records and stories of armies that could not or would not adapt to changing terrain and practices — to their great detriment. Versatility is vital in the field of human endeavor and progress. We might say this axiom is never more applicable than to our own Salvation Army. Remaining fresh and pliable wins the day.
It is with that cutting-edge intention that the USA Eastern Territory will appoint its new lieutenants on the first Sunday in May this year, May 4, instead of during the long-standing mid-June Sunday of Commissioning Weekend.
Many will recognize this as a clear break with tradition, a beloved tradition, even. Commissioned officers will likely never forget the sheer adrenaline of that moment, standing before territorial leaders awaiting the announcement of their first appointment, the culmination of two years’ training, and hearing it at the very same time that a cheering auditorium full of people hears it. Electric, for sure.
Of course, the deeper significance is the beautiful truth that young adults are placing their “all upon the altar” and standing publicly, ready to serve wherever the Lord places them. So, while the date is now changing, that greater reality remains as true as ever.
A cherished Army value is the deployment of the most effective technology to further the mission. In our day that includes full livestream web access and increasingly means a web audience of several thousand in addition to the gathered Commissioning congregation.
On May 4, the Sunday afternoon appointment service for the 2025 Champions of the Mission will be livestreamed and available to you, indeed, to Salvationists around the world.
Here’s a thought — let’s show up and step up in record-setting numbers to help launch this new initiative. Host a corps appointment party. Invite friends over and get the donuts and coffee ready. And cheer, cheer, cheer!
Champions of the Mission, we are cheering you on. May the Lord Almighty be with you.
