Conference of Leaders delegates put trust in God

'TRUST in God,' was General Shaw Clifton's call to delegates to the 2009 International Conference of Leaders (ICL), held in Heathrow in the UK.

As the largest-ever assembly of Salvation Army leaders gathered for a welcome dinner (presided over by the Chief of the Staff, Commissioner Robin Dunster), the Chief Guest was unquestionably 'Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today and forever'. Every territory and command in the world being represented, except one, the conference reflects a growing global Army.

The World President of Women's Ministries, Commissioner Helen Clifton, highlighted the significance of the name of the conference venue: 'Renaissance Hotel'. This was echoed in Commissioner Janet Refstie's (Brazil Territory) response to the General's welcome to delegates when she reminded them that even if there is 'nothing new under the sun' there is still much for all to learn from God.

By the time Commissioner Marilyn Francis (Canada and Bermuda Territory) led the delegates in prayer two aspirations for the conference had been achieved: the 'Renaissance' had become a place for prayer and the study of God's word.

Following a time of sharing led by Commissioners Lawrence and Nancy Moretz (USA Eastern Territory), the conference hall resounded to the singing of Evangeline Booth's 'The World for God', appropriately preparing the conference to hear the General re-emphasise his hopes for the conference.

Commissioners Lalkiamlova and Lahlimpuii (International Headquarters) led delegates in the closing prayers for the day as, again, they placed Christ at the centre of the business of the conference while singing the chorus 'Christ is All, Yes, All in All'.