Cadet profile: Kate Clifford
Cadet profile: Kate Clifford
29 November 2021
Meet Kate Clifford, Messengers of Grace
How did you know you were being called to officership?
Officership was never a part of my plans but has always been in the back of my mind having married an Officer. However, I knew for me to pursue this path I needed to know that it was what God wanted me to do not just because it was convenient or because it was expected of me.
When my husband, Joel, received the announcement that he was being sent to Tasmania, I turned to the Lord once again and saying ‘here I am again Lord in this unique place of starting over, I will do whatever it is You would like me to do.’ Not often in life do we find ourselves in a place where we must start over so I wanted to use this opportunity to ensure I was doing the will of God. Having come through a period of illness, receiving the healing I had prayed so long for, I desired more than ever to do whatever I could do and to be wherever it was He wanted me to be. I believe he heard my hearts cry.
Over a period of several years I had sensed God’s calling upon my life for full time ministry as an Officer through many people speaking into my life, including Officers and Pastors outside of the Army. Through these people and through reflection of my journey thus far, I began to see God’s hand shaping me for what was to come. More than anything I long to be obedient to God. I long to follow where He leads, knowing He has a plan and a purpose for my life far greater than I could hope for or imagine. Following His leading I step out in faith, believing He will take me where He will.
What has been challenging about your training?
The greatest challenge over the past couple of years of training has been juggling study, training college commitments, my Corps appointment, and raising two beautiful, energetic, strong willed children. There have been some very intense and busy periods at times, which has meant I have had to rely heavily on my husband and family for support. I am forever grateful to them for all their love, support and care during this time.
Has it been different to your expectations?
Having begun my journey as an Auxiliary Lieutenant, the educational aspect of my cadetship has been as I expected. However, the personal formation aspect of training has exceeded my expectations. To have a team of Officers investing in me - personally, emotionally, spiritually – has been a huge support and encouragement, and has helped to shape me and my ministry for the better.
What has been the most rewarding?
As a cadet in appointment, the most rewarding part of the past couple of years has been journeying alongside people from all walks of life. I have had the pleasure of being there to celebrate with others during times of joy, and the honour of journeying with people through times of deep grief and anguish. I count this as an immense privilege.
How has God stretched you during the past two years?
How has He not! Up the front ministry has never been something I have enjoyed or particularly desired. So to preach and lead worship on a Sunday morning has been a step out of my comfort zone at times. I have surprised myself as I have had the courage to step out in faith, even noticing that my nerves have been significantly less than anticipated. Through stepping out my confidence has grown, with up-front ministry seeming less daunting than it once did.
What is one important lesson you have learnt?
One important lesson I have learnt is to expect the unexpected and to just run with it. Every day things pop up that I am not anticipating – some amazing, like visits from a baby potoroo who had been rescued; others challenging, like sinkers being fired through our windows; and others much tougher, like the death of a much-loved Corps member. Sometimes we just have to let go of our plans and shift our focus.
Where have you been appointed during your cadetship?
Clarence City Corps
Comments
God bless you Kate. Awesome to hear how God has moved in your life and the journey you have been on too and I'm sure God has a lot more to do in your life and the lives of those around you. Bless you and Joel in this next chapter of your lives.