• World leaders’ taste of India
“My time in the India Western Territory was an unforgettable experience filled with powerful moments of worship, spiritual renewal, and vibrant cultural celebrations,” wrote General Lyndon Buckingham. “Thousands of people worshipped together at powerful public meetings, experiencing a deep sense of faith and unity. “Let us continue to encourage one another to fulfil God’s mission and share his truth as the body of Christ.”
General Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries) spent 10 days in India last month – a tour that included the gathering of Indian leaders, visits to institutions, cultural performances and traditional dances and transformative spiritual encounters.
A grand march of witness welcomed the world leaders to the India Western Territory on 14 February.
At the women’s congresses in Gujarat and Maharashtra, Commissioner Buckingham urged the thousands who attended to reflect God’s image, live righteously and prioritise Jesus, emphasising that God has a purpose for every person.
The international leaders arrived at the children’s and youth congress to a guard of honour, and received a warm welcome from two young delegates, Nisha and Kinjal.
Commissioner Buckingham encouraged the young delegates to pursue righteousness and lead future generations, and compelled all corps to elevate the voices of young people. General Buckingham urged them to step out in faith, trusting Jesus despite fears and doubts.
Thousands of people worshipped together at powerful public meetings. The General reminded everyone that they are holy, chosen and dearly loved by God, and encouraged the congregation to trust in God’s promises.
At Officers’ Councils, the General urged officers to be shepherds of God’s flock, leading with a servant heart and unwavering faith. At the training college, the General and Commissioner Buckingham inspired cadets to commit wholeheartedly to God’s mission.
Meetings and visits
The international leaders received a warm welcome from the staff at The Salvation Army’s Emery Hospital, Anand.
“When you care for a patient, you see the face of Jesus,” General Buckingham said.
At Evangeline Booth Hospital, Ahmednagar, General Buckingham praised the staff’s dedication. Commissioner Buckingham offered a prayer of blessing at both hospitals.
The Buckinghams also attended Muktipur Farm Colony Corps and Atmapur village, which Commissioner Fakir Singh (also known as Frederick Booth-Tucker, a pioneer of the Army’s work in India) visited during his early ministry in the country.
The world leaders also met with the territorial commanders from the six Indian territories, and the National Executive Officer, Colonel S.P. Simon, convened with the international leaders in Mumbai. General Buckingham emboldened the leaders to encourage each other, fulfil God’s mission and share his truth together as the body of Christ.
“Many men, women and young people rededicated themselves at the mercy seat throughout the 10-day visit, and the presence of the General and Commissioner Buckingham served as a catalyst for strengthening roots for future growth in Christ and bearing lasting fruit,” wrote the editors for Gujarat and Maharashtra, India Western Territory.
