Five minutes with… Major Dini Varte

Can you tell us about yourself; where do you live? Where do you work?

My name is Major Ramdinthari Varte, I live in Kolasib, a town in the Mizoram district in northeast India where I serve as a Divisional Commander. In my current appointment I oversee 56 churches and societies. (For external readers, a Divisional Commander in The Salvation Army is an officer whose role involves overseeing the functions of churches within a specified region of the world and ensuring effective management and coordination of services and activities within that area.)

What does a typical day look like for you?

Most of my days are devoted to meetings, council sessions, and strategic discussions with colleagues. I am responsible for planning initiatives and preparing detailed reports. When I am not engaged in meetings, I am typically in the field, visiting Salvation Army churches, societies and other institutions within my jurisdiction to ensure effective oversight and support.

What’s something you’re currently working on that excites you?

There are many aspects of my work that I find rewarding, but if I had to highlight one, it would be the opportunity to attend Sunday holiness meetings in rural villages. These gatherings are marked by the presence of enthusiastic soldiers, deeply committed and ready to serve the Lord with sincerity and passion.

How are you connected with The Salvation Army?

I was born a Salvationist as my parents are retired Salvation Army Officers, so I have known about The Salvation Army (TSA) since my childhood.

How do you participate in your church?

I regularly preach in various churches when I am invited. On occasions when I attend without an invitation, I take the opportunity to participate in worship; I really enjoy the singing and the sermon.

During walks, I often listen to music and sermons, allowing me to stay spiritually nourished throughout the day.

Tea or coffee?

Tea

What steps do you take to strengthen your relationship with Jesus?

I begin each day with a Bible reading and prayer, followed by time spent reading other Christian literature and listening to gospel music, which continually renews my spirit and mind. I also value engaging in meaningful conversations with fellow workers. During walks, I often listen to music and sermons, allowing me to stay spiritually nourished throughout the day.

What Bible verse is on your heart today? What does that mean to you?

‘Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.’ Romans 12:1-2

This verse serves as a living testimony in my life. By offering myself to God as a living sacrifice each day and allowing him to transform me, I have been led to fully surrender my life to his will, ultimately becoming an officer of TSA.

How do you stay grounded when life feels overwhelming?

I stay grounded by looking back my life, thinking what God has done for me. 

Early bird or night owl?

I’m an early bird!

Who or what has been your greatest influence?

My Mum has been and is still my greatest influence and has shaped who I am today.

How would you describe the heart of The Salvation Army in one word?

Compassionate

What do you believe God is calling The Salvation Army to focus on in this season?

In this season, I believe that God is calling The Salvation Army to envision a movement that:

• Serves holistically meeting physical, emotional, and spiritual needs
• Advocates boldly standing for justice and dignity for all
• Builds community—fostering relationships that transform lives
• Innovates mission—embracing new ways to reach a changing world
• Deepens faith—rooted in prayer, worship, and discipleship
• To bring hope and wholeness through Christ’s love, wherever the world is hurting

Have you experienced any failures or setbacks that ended up being blessings in disguise?

By the grace of God, I have not encountered any significant setbacks in my life. I remain steadfast in my commitment to God, viewing every challenge not as a failure but as an opportunity to gain wisdom and grow through the lessons he provides.

How do you unwind or spend your free time?

I love spending time with friends, watching movies, reading and travelling.

What do you hope to achieve in the next five years?

My hope is to remain joyful and to be placed in a position where I can serve God more effectively through The Salvation Army. I trust that God will lead me to the place where he desires me to be, a place where I can serve him best and fulfil my calling to bring people to the feet of Jesus.