MORE than 4,500 Salvationists and friends gave a joyous welcome to General André Cox and Commissioner Silvia Cox (World President of Women’s Ministries) on their arrival in the Congo (Brazzaville) Territory for the 80th anniversary congress. Among the many highlights of the visit was the enrolment of more than 700 senior and junior soldiers!
On arrival at Maya-Maya International Airport, before meeting the waiting crowds, the General spoke to the Congolese media. He explained that he was in the Republic of Congo to support and encourage the country's Salvationists and to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.
At the opening meeting of the congress, held at the Fiftieth Anniversary Hall, Congolese Salvationists and friends were joined by delegations from Gabon, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Cameroon, as well as government officials and other members of the Christian Churches Ecumenical Council. The same location was used two days later for a 'rally of Salvationists', during which seven Salvationists were recognised by the General for their commitment and loyalty to God and to the Army.
The next day, more than 5,000 people attended a women's rally led by Commissioner Cox while the General led proceedings for a congregation of 1,325 at a men’s rally. A music festival later in the day included the cutting of an 80th anniversary cake.
The fifth day of the congress, Sunday, began with a public march of witness followed by the Congress Celebration Holiness Meeting, held at Henri Elendé Arena. More than 13,000 people attended the meeting, during which the General enrolled 456 senior soldiers and 277 junior soldiers. Two of the new senior soldiers are members of the Congolese Parliament.
Throughout the congress, thousands of people reconsecrated themselves to God at the mercy seat, and many dozens of first-time seekers were registered. Fifty-three young people responded to the call of God to officership in The Salvation Army.
Away from the main congress events, the international leaders participated in officers councils attended by 350 officers (active and retired) including some from the Democratic Republic of Congo. They also met with the cadets of the Messengers of the Good News Session at the training college and dedicated to God a new 1,500-seater hall at Ngangouoni in Brazzaville 2 Division.
Report by Major Gabriel Dimonekene
- Photos from the visit are available to download from the IHQ Flickr stream: sar.my/gencon
