Salvationists march through the streets of Asunción
A SPIRIT of joy and gratitude permeated Salvation Army centenary celebrations in Paraguay. The celebrations, in Asunción, included the presentation of the first Salvation Army red shield translated in Guarani, the native language of Paraguay. Guarani is one of the two official languages used in Paraguay – the other being Spanish.
Historical highlights throughout the celebrations reminded the congregations of the sacrificial and consecrated spirit of many officers and other Salvationists who were faithful and determined to hold high the Army banner in a country that has limited resources and has experienced political turmoil and economic difficulties.
Salvation Army ministry in Paraguay began in 1910 when Captain Thomas Frisch, with his wife Eliza, were appointed by the territorial commander of the then South America Territory to begin the work in Asunción, capital of the Paraguayan Republic.
Guest leaders for the weekend were Colonel Susan McMillan, Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army's South America East Territory – of which Paraguay is part – and Lieut-Colonels Ricardo and Sonia Bouzigues, Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women’s Ministries.
Prior to the centenary celebrations Major Thore Paulsen, the current District Officer for Paraguay, made contact with Captain Frisch's grandchildren, now living in Montevideo, Uruguay. Through this contact Pastor Diego Frisch and his wife Ruth, representing the Frisch family, participated in the centenary celebrations.
There were emotional moments when Pastor Frisch related some anecdotes that his grandfather had told him about the early days of The Salvation Army in Paraguay. In recognition and gratitude he was presented with a special edition Bible, with the Army Shield in Guarani on the cover.
Hundreds of Salvationists marched through the streets of central Asunción to the main square for a concert.
In the centenary festival on the Saturday evening greetings were received from representatives of the ecumenical community in Paraguay. The festival included many different music items representing all the Paraguayan corps (churches). On the Sunday morning a united holiness meeting included the enrolment of 12 senior soldiers (full members) and 34 junior soldiers.
The Bible message given by Colonel McMillan encouraged Salvationists of Paraguay to consecrate their lives to the service of God and the extension of his Kingdom in their country.
The crowning glory was to see the mercy seat lined with Salvationists, kneeling and giving themselves to the Lord. The hearts of the people were filled with gratitude to see how God’s work is developing in Paraguay.
 The enrolment of senior soldiers |
 New junior soldiers read their promises |
