AMAZING grace permeated the Denmark Territory's congress as General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox (World President of Women's Ministries) proclaimed a powerful message of God’s boundless grace and commissioned new lieutenants from the Heralds of Grace Session. Reflecting the sessional name, the inspirational gathering in the Danish capital, Copenhagen, took the theme 'Amazing Grace'.
The five new lieutenants had received their training in either Norway or the United Kingdom, and their ordination and appointments as Salvation Army officers were attended by members of the cadet sessions from both countries. The congregation was reminded that all Salvationists are called to be Heralds of Grace.
Through every event at the congress people were encouraged to recognise the great things God is doing in an increasingly secular, suffering and faithless world, as well as being aware of the even greater things he still wants to do. In the Sunday afternoon meeting six soldiers were commissioned and recognised as sergeants.
Both the General and Commissioner Cox emphasised the significance of living a full-hearted and fruitful life through a close relationship with Jesus Christ. With points of emphasis linked to the part of the International Vision – One Army, One Message, One Mission – that speaks of a 'Spirit-filled Army in the 21st century', the international leaders underlined that spiritual fruit and the gift of grace are never given to people to be kept for themselves. This powerful and challenging message ran like a thread through the congress, with the mercy seat being lined with seekers in every meeting.
A special highlight of the congress was the sight of many beneficiaries from The Salvation Army’s outreach work to marginalised families kneeling together in prayer. The General described these scenes as 'a wonderful picture of God’s grace'.
God’s amazing grace was not only received but also shared during the congress, particularly through open-air meetings and a march in central Copenhagen that was seen by many people. With three brass bands in central Copenhagen, both the music and the message attracted great attention among the crowds on a sunny Saturday morning. The participation of Regent Hall Band, from the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland, was particularly appreciated, with the visiting band providing captivating and creative music through the whole weekend.
Major Levi Giversen
