Ministry Weekend in Brandon

On Friday, May 23rd, 2008, we loaded up a college van and 5 of us cadets and our training principal, headed off to Brandon, Manitoba for a ministry weekend at the Salvation Army Corps there. God really blessed us while we were there and we watched God at work within the town.

On Friday when we got there we headed to the Shilo Military Base to learn more about Chaplaincy in the Military and interfaith services. I found it very interesting and I thought... WOW... God, thank you for giving me the opportunity to see human diversity at its best. I also felt affirmed of my calling to Aboriginal Ministries as we sat and participated in a Native Spirituality Ritual. I could finally understand the stories that many from Weetamah have shared with me on Friday nights. For that I was extremely thankful.

In the night, we participated in an Adult Fellowship at the Bowling Alley. It was a fun night... let me tell you one thing though, I need to practice up on the bowling. Believe I was not that good... ha ha! Well I guess I have an excuse (I can't bend very well!!!) Not really, my fiddle group kids could tell you how I really bowl... ha ha.

Then we hung out with members of the congregation at the restaurant that was in the same building as bowling. It was great times.

On Saturday... we got up and headed to the Thrift Store for a family day. We cooked hot dogs for those who wished to have some, made crafts with the kids, did balloon animals, and then just helped with things in the Thrift Store. After that we headed to the church to set up for Sunday and practice music for the worship team. Good times.

We ended the day with an evening at the Officers Quarters. Here, we enjoyed ribs, and then got to pick their brains about ministry. Well, I actually just listened and contemplated some ideas in my head. I think for the most part we all did this.

Sunday... we did a service at the Salvation Army's personal care home. It was great to see God at work in the lives of the people who live in that home. Sweet Hour of Prayer was a very uplifting moment and we could definitely feel God's Spirit moving there. After we headed to the church. . . where the cadets helped with the service. It was great to worship with the people of Brandon. Very exciting times! After the service we fellowshipped together with the congregation as we shared in a Potluck!

Overall, we were blessed by God and affirmed of our calling. God is good and I am glad that I chose to obey His call and am training to be a Salvation Army Officer.

God Bless You,

Rebecca