Testimony – Cadet David Delany
Session: Reflectors of Holiness From: Auburn Corps (NSW) Appointed to: Corps Officer at Hurstville Corps (NSW) Silver Star recipients: Mrs Daphne Delany. Major Nesan Kistan Academic award: Certificate of Salvation Army Officer Training Diploma of Theology
As I reflect on my journey to officership, it all began when I arrived at Sydney Airport on 3 December 2009. I vividly recall when Major Nesan Kistan heard me sing and thank God at the airport. Afterwards, he approached me and said, “I believe you are a Man of God. I would love for you to come to church on Sunday, dressed just as you are, and perform the same song during the meeting.”
On Sunday 6 December 2009, I attended the church and was allowed to participate in the meeting. The meeting concluded, and on Monday, my uncle brought me to Major Nesan’s office at Auburn. We engaged in a lengthy conversation, during which he began to encourage me to sit with him at the front in every meeting.
While studying accounting and finance at Granville TAFE, I also engaged in a two-day voluntary job as an all-rounder at Auburn Salvos. By the time I completed my accounting course, I was granted the opportunity to work as a ministry assistant there. During this time, I acquired and developed new skills related to ministry in Australian culture, all under the leadership of Majors Nesan and Cheryl Kistan.
Coming to the Officer Formation Stream, my ITO, LPO, lecturers and colleagues have all played a significant role in shaping, guiding, leading, challenging and creating opportunities for me to learn and unlearn. These experiences have contributed to my growth and a deeper understanding of God, others and myself. I now possess a profound sense of leadership, spiritual formation and a greater understanding of my identity.
I give all the praise, glory and honour to God for how far he has brought me, and I willingly hand over this incredible journey ahead of me and my family, knowing that God is the author and finisher of our faith.
Bible verse: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
