India Northern Territory marked a significant milestone on 14 and 15 March 2026 as the Cadets’ Commissioning, Ordination and Graduation for the Keepers of the Covenant Session 2024–2026 was held at Bareilly Central Corps, Uttar Pradesh. The two-day celebration brought together leaders, officers, faculty, families and corps members in a time of worship, commitment and thanksgiving.

Newly ordained and commissioned officers gather in traditional uniform attire at the milestone territory celebration.

The programme opened with the Cadets’ Covenant service, led by Lieut. Colonel Emmanuel Masih, who introduced the sessional cadets. Lieut. Colonel Mercy Manjula Mudda, TSWM, offered a special prayer, and Retired Commissioner Samuel Charan encouraged the cadets from 1 Timothy 3:1. Following prayer by Lieut. Colonel Suresh Masih, Commissioner Vanlalfela delivered a challenging Bible message, calling the cadets to remain faithful through trials and steadfast in their calling to God and The Salvation Army.

In a moving moment of dedication, the cadets knelt at the mercy seat and signed their Covenants and Undertakings, affirming their commitment to Salvation Army doctrine and lifelong ministry.

The celebration continued with Pageant Night at 6:00 p.m., led by Major Rajkumar Gill and inaugurated by Commissioner Vanlalfela. The evening featured songs, dances and cultural presentations by the cadets, creating a joyful and vibrant atmosphere. Officers, faculty, families and members of the corps attended the programme, which concluded with prayer by Lieut. Colonel Abraham Lincoln Mudda, Chief Secretary.

The commissioning platform at Bareilly Central Corps highlighting sessional leadership, flag presentations, and the sessional report interface.

On 15 March 2026, Lieut. Colonel Abraham Lincoln Mudda, Chief Secretary, led the Commissioning and Ordination service. Lieut. Colonel Rajkumar, Training Principal, presented the sessional report, after which Commissioner Vanlalfela solemnly ordained and commissioned the cadets as Lieutenants. In his message on the Great Commission, the Territorial Commander urged the newly commissioned officers to serve under Christ’s authority and to make disciples. During the service, B.Th. degrees (ATA-affiliated), certificates and honours were presented, including the Order of the Silver Star to parents.

The meetings were marked by a deep spiritual response, with many seekers coming to the mercy seat. The events concluded with prayer and benediction, giving glory to God for His faithfulness throughout the session and the lives of the newly commissioned officers.