International Leaders Virtual Conversations Conclude in Spirit of Unity and Praise

As leaders expressed their thanks for this opportunity, there was a spirit of unity and hope as, together, they moved forward in ministry and service

THE Salvation Army’s International Leaders Virtual Conversations (ILVC) – held entirely online over several months – have now concluded. Participating leaders from every Salvation Army territory and command say it has been a wonderful opportunity to speak together and to discuss matters of significance.  

On 15 March, General Brian Peddle spoke with leaders in three different gatherings – to allow for time zones – to share final thoughts and consider the many responses received from the smaller group discussions. This has provided insightful and discerning affirmations and considerations which will now be further examined by The General’s Council (the group at International Headquarters that provides counsel to the General). 

The international agenda focused on Leadership of the Army and the movement’s succession plan, along with consideration of Gender Equity. Leaders also discussed Human Sexuality, with a broad engagement around The Salvation Army’s service without discrimination. The General plans to comment further on the conference in a communication to all Salvationists in the near future. 

All ILVC delegates gathered virtually to share in final worship and prayer forums on 8 April under the leadership of the General and the Chief of the Staff (Commissioner Lyndon Buckingham), supported by Commissioners Rosalie Peddle and Bronwyn Buckingham. This was a time of rich prayer in which the leaders from around the world expressed their heartfelt praise and thanksgiving to God for his faithfulness and earnestly sought his continued wisdom and guidance. It was a day enveloped in prayer and praise.  

As leaders expressed their thanks for this opportunity, there was a spirit of unity and hope as, together, they moved forward in ministry and service.  

The virtual conversations have concluded in terms of the leaders meeting together, but the affirmations and recommendations which have resulted now enter a new phase. The prayer support of Salvationists and friends around the world is requested for all international, territorial and command leaders as they consider the best way forward.    

Report by Lieut-Colonel Jennifer Groves
Private Secretary to the Chief of the Staff

Lieut-Colonel Jennifer Groves

Discover more

Faith-Based Facilitation
Strategy and impact

Faith-Based Facilitation

Faith-Based Facilitation is a way of helping people think, talk, explore and respond to issues in the light of faith.

Volunteers unload supplies from a Salvation Army emergency vehicle
Emergency response
USA Southern

The Salvation Army responds to catastrophic Texas floods

Emergency Disaster Services teams are working around the clock to provide meals, drinks and emotional and spiritual care to communities in Central Texas, USA, following the devastating flooding of the Guadalupe River.

World map with countries highlighted in different colours
Strategy and impact

World Map

A downloadable map showing countries in which The Salvation Army is at work.

A group of young Salvationists in front of the exhibition 'Transforming lives for 160 years'
International Headquarters

Salvation Army celebrates 160 years; anticipates powerful future

Transforming lives and communities since 1865

Modern slavery and human trafficking

Spot the Signs

Driven by poverty, conflict, persecution – and the global demand for cheap goods, labour and sex – modern slavery and human trafficking are thriving worldwide. Yes, even in your own community.

Victims often can’t ask for help. They rely on others – on

Prayer

International Prayer Focus Calendar

Each week, Salvationists around the world unite in praying for the same territory or region of The Salvation Army. Prayer requests are shared by the territory/region to help us pray with precision and power for one another.