GENERAL Linda Bond, making her first visit as international leader to The Salvation Army's Switzerland, Austria and Hungary Territory, challenged Salvationists in Switzerland to live a consistent life of faith. During a meeting of celebration in which music was provided by the Alive Choir and Corps Berne Band, she emphasised that the message to be conveyed is not about The Salvation Army but about the gospel of hope, freedom and life preached by Jesus Christ. She spoke to the Salvationists gathered about the International Vision, reminding them that they are part of One Army with One Mission and One Message.
In a public meeting in Berne that followed national officers councils, she told the congregation of almost 500 people that 'inspired by the Holy Spirit, The Salvation Army must take its mission seriously and go out into the world. Because this world has so many people hurting, broken, lonely, dispossessed and lost, who sorely need Christ’s message of freedom, hope and life in order to change their lives.'
Citing freedom, hope and life as cornerstones of the gospel, the General said: 'We have to be The Salvation Army of freedom! It is Jesus Christ who delivers us from bondage – and the world today is crying out for freedom.'
She concluded: 'Do you live in victory? Do you have hope? The world needs our redeemer offering freedom, hope and life!'
The General Urges Swiss Salvationists to Share Christ's Message of Freedom, Hope and Life
Discover more

Monsoon devastation in Northern India
The Salvation Army responds

The Salvation Army in Papua New Guinea is honoured with inclusivity award
The award recognises The Salvation Army’s extensive geographic reach and inclusive engagement efforts across its programmes.

EYE 2025: Young people across Europe dare to look up
Young Salvationists invited to look up and see God moving across Europe and their lives.

World Humanitarian Day 2025
The Salvation Army joins the global community in commemorating World Humanitarian Day 2025 (19 August) – a day to honour the courage, compassion and sacrifice of humanitarian workers around the world.

International leaders encourage USA Southern Salvationists to be ‘Kingdom influencers’
General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham have encouraged and challenged delegates to the USA Southern Territory Bible Conference, held at Lake Junaluska, North Carolina, from 3 to 9 August 2025.
Conversations with the General: young people
Salvation Army young people from around the world met with the General and Commissioner Bronwyn to share their hearts, ask questions and talk about their hopes for the future of The Salvation Army.