Guided by God’s compass - world leaders attend festival in Denmark
- simoneworthing
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
General Lyndon and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham, international leaders of The Salvation Army, took part in the Denmark and Greenland Territory’s festival in Slagelse, on the Danish island of Zealand, from 21-22 June.
The festival theme, ‘Compass’, underscored the call to navigate life according to God’s direction – and to extend that invitation to all corners of the world.
The doors of the festival venue remained open all weekend, serving as
a powerful metaphor: an invitation to take faith beyond church walls and out into the world.
The world leaders issued a strong challenge: to be “fully in and fully out”, calling for a natural synergy between inner and outer life, individually and corporately.
Many of the festival’s activities also took place outside, reflecting its outward focus. A vibrant marketplace featured stalls showcasing the work of The Salvation Army, fun activities for children and opportunities for prayer and conversation. The aroma of food from the mobile canteen drew constant crowds, while the Valby Band filled the square with joyful music, adding to the atmosphere.
A range of musicians and worship groups led the congregations in praise throughout the event, including a special moment of Greenlandic worship delivered via video link from Nuuk, Greenland.
The international leaders shared a vision of The Salvation Army as a movement focused on people, mission and legacy – knowing who we are, understanding our purpose and serving with an impact that lasts. Their message echoed Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV): “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?”
This theme of transition gained deeper significance during the closing meeting, which also served as a farewell to the current territorial leaders, Lieut-Colonels Jan and Kjersti Risan.
It was a fitting end to a festival defined by unity, joy and the challenge to step boldly into the world – led by God’s compass.
Crisis centre visit
During the festival, the General and Commissioner also visited The Salvation Army’s crisis centre Svendebjerggård in Hvidovre, 9km from Copenhagen, Denmark’s capital.
“It was an honour to participate in the inauguration of the 20 newly renovated rooms at the crisis centre,” said the General. “We join in prayer for Svendebjerggård, praying that it will be a source of blessings for many.”
The rooms of the centre have been remodelled so each residence now has its own bathroom – a welcome feature that will ease the everyday lives of the crisis-affected singles and families living at Svendebjerggård.
To read the full story of the festival, click here.
