by Captain Blake Fewell
Nearly eight years ago, when I stood on a stage in front of a crowd to receive my first appointment as a Salvation Army officer, I had no idea where that journey would take me. That moment was the start of an adventure in ministry. I’ve led a small corps in rural Indiana, served in team ministry at a multicultural corps in Minneapolis, and taught cadets at the College for Officer Training (CFOT).
Each appointment has had a special place in my heart. Each has challenged me, helping me to become a better officer. There certainly have been times of joy and sorrow, successes and failures, accomplishments and mistakes, but through it all God has demonstrated why I was appointed there for that time. My officership journey has continued to surprise me at each step.
Now, my journey takes another step in a new direction. In September, I will leave for a new adventure in London, England, and will serve as assistant undersecretary for the Americas and Caribbean Zone at International Headquarters (IHQ).
The zonal departments at IHQ are the main administrative link with territories. The Americas and Caribbean Zone helps coordinate The Salvation Army’s work in 11 territories. What excites me the most about this appointment is seeing God’s work in the global Salvation Army, supporting territories in their missional effectiveness, and learning from diverse cultures and experiences.
Each change of appointment is challenging. It means saying goodbye to what is known to move into the unknown, leaving behind friends to build new relationships, and setting aside one ministry to pick up another. I undoubtedly will have difficulty saying goodbye to the cadets, officers, and employees of the CFOT. I have cherished being a CFOT officer and distance learning instructor.
When I began my ministry as an officer 2,880 days ago and received my first appointment, I trusted the Lord’s faithfulness and guidance. Today, I trust Him even more.
