My testimony: Cadet Peter Hardy
My testimony: Cadet Peter Hardy
22 November 2022
Cadet Peter Hardy is excited to be commissioned as a Reflector of Holiness this Sunday at Blacktown City Corps in Sydney.
I grew up in a Christian home that had been part of The Salvation Army for many generations. While this helped lay a good foundation for my faith, as I grew older, I became aware that this was something I needed to develop for myself.
By asking the right questions and having some great mentors along the way, I was able to come to a place where I wanted to live my life for Christ.
Peter (right) loves playing his cornet as a member of his local corps brass band.
It’s funny because, looking back on my life, I remember having this strange thought about officership being, “that's the job you’re going to do one day”. At the time, it sounded quite ridiculous, and I brushed it off. However, God moved his pieces into place over time to make this a reality.
I had been a part of the NSW Police Academy, and with only a few weeks until graduation, I had to leave after receiving a speeding ticket. I made it my goal to get back and did everything I needed to. When the opportunity arose to accept this position again, I received a call about a job doing youth ministry in Gladstone (Qld).
At the time, I was so conflicted. But after lots of prayer and conversation, I thought, “What will I feel more proud doing – being on the parade ground at the academy or on a platform being commissioned as a Salvation Army officer?” When I thought of the latter, I immediately felt a sense of joy and peace and knew that this was the right decision. I think I naturally doubted my ability to step down this road, but that only ensured that I grew closer to God as I learned to trust in him more and more.
Training in an appointment instead of being at the college has certainly been very different from what I had imagined. It has given me the opportunity to learn from many great people and leaders.
I have gained real-world experience in life as an officer, which will help prepare me for my appointments to come. I have had the privilege of experiencing places such as the Army’s rehabilitation centres, Street Level, the Red Shield Defence Service, and corps.
I am currently appointed as a team member at Carindale Corps in Queensland. The people I have met and my experiences have genuinely opened my eyes to what an amazing God we serve.
Peter (left) is happiest when out on a run.
Through this, I always return to Philippians 1:6 (NIV), “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” I love the many writings of Paul and the interactions that he had with so many influential people.
As I approach my first appointment, I hope to be able to meet God where he is already at work and carry on the mission of growing his Kingdom. I pray that God will speak through me and that I can make great connections and form relationships that are God honouring.
I am grateful to my family, parents, wife and those who have journeyed with me and supported me to this day. I know they will continue to stand by me throughout my life.
Cadet Peter Hardy will be ordained, commissioned and sent out on Sunday 27 November.
When: 10.30am (AEDT) Blacktown, Sydney, by Commissioner Robert Donaldson.
Where: Blacktown City Corps, 2 Kempsey Street, Blacktown, NSW 2148.
Watch Online: https://www.facebook.com/blacktowncitysalvos/
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