General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox Urge Bromley Salvationists to Get Out of the Barracks
A DEMANDING international schedule did not deter General André Cox and World President of Women’s Ministries Commissioner Silvia Cox from bringing challenging messages to their home corps (church), Bromley Temple, when they participated in a holiness meeting.
The General challenged the congregation to be involved in mission to those who are unsaved, to live lives that are consistent with Scripture and to embrace the privilege and responsibilities of being God’s people. ‘Truly, we are called to be part of a serving, mobilised Army and not confined to barracks,’ he preached. ‘Our future depends on our commitment to that reality.’
Earlier in the meeting Young People’s Band Leader Andrew Yates had interviewed the General about the Whole World Mobilising initiative. The General stated that – as part of God’s rescue mission – The Salvation Army needs to be a mobilised fighting force. It is also, he said, imperative for the Army to meet human need without discrimination.
He challenged the congregation: ‘It is as we go out and serve that The Salvation Army really finds its place. Be what Christ called you to be! Don’t be afraid! Go for it!’
Commissioner Cox also shared with the congregation some valuable insights from their recent trip to Mali. She spoke of how one person’s response and faithfulness to a divine vision has resulted in work developing in that country. ‘I am amazed at what God is doing. Great things are happening in The Salvation Army around the world,’ she said.
Following the meeting, which was led by the corps officers, Lieut-Colonels Graham and Kirsten Owen, the Mayor of Bromley, Councillor Ian Payne – a soldier at Bromley Temple – welcomed the international leaders and the corps officers to the mayor’s parlour where he presented a borough plaque acknowledging the occasion.
Report by Major Margaret Bovey,
Editorial Assistant, Salvationist, United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland