Salvation Army leader General John Larsson and Commissioner Freda Larsson have visited the Taipei Central Corps to celebrate the 40 year anniversary of the Salvation Army’s re-establishment of work in Taiwan.
During the visit General Larsson gave Regional Commander Major Fona Ling a number of pictures of the early Salvation Army in Taiwan, as well as the first guest book of Taipei Central Corps.General Larsson led proceedings talking about the work of the International Salvation Army; showing pictures of their works being carried out across the globe.
In addition, during the gathering General Larsson presented Envoy Lee with an award of appreciation for her service and commitment in 25 years of ministry with the Army.
During the evening a soldiers rally was held with the Mission of Praise Brass Band from the USA Western Territory offering music entertainment.
The various Corps that had gathered gave praise to God in their own unique methods: Ocarina performances, modern street dancing, traditional singing by a choir, traditional Chinese music, timbrels and harmonicas were used by others, as well as aboriginal dancing.
In order to overcome the widely varied language barriers, the Salvation Army General used music to address the congregation, allowing listeners to take in variations of the song ‘This is the Day’.
As the General went on he spoke passionately about the works and power of the fire of the Holy Spirit. The congregation was challenged by Larsson to renew their relationship with God and to call on and receive the power of the Holy Spirit in their works.
Just the night prior to the gathering and strong typhoon struck Taiwan, however, it passed by the morning of the event so that members could travel safely to the gathering.
In the morning, sixteen senior soldiers and eleven junior soldiers were enrolled, with the General giving a Bible message to encourage his hearers to reach out and embark on a new step of faith. Following his call, many Salvationists came out to pray.
The meeting came to a conclusion as they sung ‘God’s Soldier’, with the music written by the General. The song provided an inspiration for the congregation to rejoice in the presence of God, and allowed them to look forward to the next 40 years of mission work in Taiwan with renewed hope.
