In one or two paragraphs, please describe your calling to officership.

In 2009, I shared with my wife, Jillian, that I felt led toward Salvation Army officership. At the time, I  was a 20-year-old new believer and felt too spiritually young to declare it publicly. I decided that if the calling was real, it would still be there after I completed my college degree. After graduating, I drifted from seeking God’s guidance and tried to map out my own future. In that season of uncertainty, I joined the military. While I enjoyed the experience, I still felt a lingering sense of unfulfillment. 

Eventually, I was led to work for The Salvation Army as an employee, and it was there that I truly discovered my passion, my mission, and my purpose. Over the past 10 years, I’ve had the privilege of learning from incredible officers, and now I see how God was preparing me all along. In 2022, while serving in ministry at the Sanders Mission Corps, I felt God’s nudge grow stronger. After attending commissioning in Atlanta, my wife and I made a covenant with God at the altar to go “all in” — fully committing to answer His call to officership and to follow wherever He leads.

How has your time at College for Officer Training (CFOT) been transformative?

Through my time at CFOT, I’ve learned that real ministry flows out of a deep, personal walk with Christ — and today, I feel closer to Him than I ever have. Watching faithful officers live out their calling has taught me that true leadership starts with a humble heart, a love for people, and a daily reliance on the Holy Spirit to do what only He can do.

What was your favorite part of being a cadet?

My favorite part of being a cadet was visiting different corps and seeing the unique ways each one carried out its ministry. I also loved the fellowship with my session mates, growing alongside them, doing ministry together, and witnessing how much we have all grown spiritually.

What does being a “Champion of the Mission” mean to you? 

To me, being a Champion of the Mission means living fully available to God — ready to go where He leads, love people well, and serve with a willing heart. It’s about sharing the hope of Jesus in everyday practical ways and making a difference wherever He places us.

What are you most looking forward to doing or experiencing in your first appointment?

I’m excited to explore the community we’ll be called to, share the love of Jesus, and serve His people with everything I’ve got. I look forward to building real, meaningful relationships and seeing lives changed by the Gospel. Honestly, I just can’t wait to jump in and be part of whatever God wants to do through us.

What advice or encouragement would you give to someone who feels called to be an officer but hasn’t answered the call yet?

I would encourage them to pay attention to that steady pull God places on their heart and to recognize the gifts He’s already given them for ministry. Keep growing those gifts, stay open to wise counsel, and trust that God will confirm His calling in His perfect timing.

Do you have a favorite Bible verse to share with readers? What makes it meaningful to you?

My favorite Bible passage is Psalm 23. It reminds me that God’s presence and care are constant and unfailing, no matter what season. Especially when life feels uncertain or overwhelming, this passage gives me the confidence to trust that He is guiding, protecting, and walking with me every step of the way.

What person from Salvation Army history is inspiring to you? Or what current Salvation Army leader is inspiring to you? Why?

My father-in-law, Major Chris Flanagan, has had a big impact on my life and faith journey. He’s a godly example of how to live with integrity — leading his family, teaching and pastoring in a way that consistently points people to Jesus. Watching him has made me a better man, and I know it will continue to shape the kind of officer I become..

How can anyone – any average reader of The War Cry – be a champion of God’s mission wherever they are?

Anyone can be a champion of God’s mission by simply being available — showing up with kindness, love, compassion, and a heart willing to meet people where they are. When we live that way, God can use us to move hearts closer to Him and to point people to the true hope of the world, Jesus Christ.