From a lowly tent situated on a Quaker burial ground in 1865 in the East End of London, The Salvation Army began life to serve those unwanted and unloved by society and even the church. Preaching the good news of Jesus, offering hope and a second chance to all.
This summer saw a weekend of worship and celebration for everyone in rededication to the Great Commission of winning the world for Jesus. It was led by the international leaders of The Salvation Army, General Lyndon Buckingham and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham.
In a stirring message, General Buckingham challenged everyone across the territory. Speaking on Matthew 9:35–38, he emphasised the need for everyone to contribute to God’s mission. To those about to be commissioned and ordained as Salvation Army officers and full-time ministers of the Gospel, members of the Champions of the Mission Session, he told them, “We’re living in a world that desperately needs you.” Highlighting how the verses in Matthew describe both the ‘in’ and ‘out’ ministry of Jesus.
Christians from around the United Kingdom took part and were encouraged and challenged to draw closer to the Lord. Under the leadership of Commissioners Paul & Jennie Main (Territorial Leaders of the United Kingdom & Ireland Territory), those present were reminded that together we can make a difference.
The Salvation Army is known for its music-making, and there were visiting choirs and dance workshops and, of course, rousing congregational singing. We sang ‘To God Be the Glory!’ and ‘O Boundless Salvation’, two classics from the Army’s vibrant musical heritage, while ‘This Is the Day’ encouraged us to ‘leave behind what happened yesterday, ’cause today there’s a new thing happening’.
We were delighted that many ecumenical leaders supported and joined in with the celebrations, including Archbishop Bernard Longley, Archbishop of Birmingham, CTE’s General Secretary, Bishop Mike Royal, Chair of the Birmingham Methodist District, Rev Novette Headley and the Ecumenical Enabler in the West Midlands, Robert Mountford.
The focus of the whole weekend was the mission and the call we have to share God’s goodness with each generation, telling of His mighty acts and proclaiming His power. A celebration of the past became a reminder to look to and prepare the generations to come.
Main photo credit: The Salvation Army/Paul Harmer Photography
Read more about The Salvation Army’s work on their website.
Watch an introduction to the Salvation Army for our Member Churches (recorded in May 2022)