International leaders visit Macau, China and Hong Kong to mark milestone moments

General Lyndon and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham enrolled Junior Soldiers at the Sunday Service celebrating 25 years of service in Macau.

BY COLONEL DESLEA MAXWELL AND

CAPTAIN JOYCE LAM LEE NOI-YAN

In a landmark visit from 10-17 October, Salvation Army international leaders General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries) travelled to Macau, the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong to celebrate key milestones and strengthen regional partnerships.

The visit to Macau, themed Legacy of Hope, marked 25 years of Salvation Army service in the region. It was a moment of reflection and celebration, honouring the Army’s enduring commitment to spiritual care, social services and community development.

The General and Commissioner Buckingham visited several centres, meeting staff and service users, and expressed heartfelt appreciation for their dedication and impact.

A civic function held in honour of the anniversary and the leaders’ visit brought together dignitaries, community leaders and representatives from various sectors to celebrate the Army’s legacy and ongoing influence in Macau.

Continuing their journey into mainland China, the Buckinghams visited The Amity Foundation and Amity Printing Company Limited, reinforcing collaborative ties and local partnerships.

Throughout the journey, the Buckinghams’ presence reaffirmed The Salvation Army’s commitment to serving communities with compassion and integrity. Engagement with government officials, community leaders and partners highlighted the Army’s enduring values of faith, service and partnership across the region.

The leaders attended officers councils in Hong Kong on 17 October. They spoke on the theme of God as Shepherd, encouraging officers with the Word of God and spiritual reflection. Many responded in prayer at the mercy seat, seeking renewal and strength – a deeply moving moment for all present.

Later that day, the leaders participated in the opening ceremony of the Recycling Programme’s Logistic Centre, visited Queen’s Hill School and attended the charity civic dinner. The General expressed gratitude and recognition for the Army’s partners, service users and colleagues, and encouraged all to focus on the God of abundant grace.

The Buckinghams’ visit was impactful and will continue to resonate within The Salvation Army’s Hong Kong and Macau Territory. 

Four Australian officers serve in this territory. Colonels Deslea and Philip Maxwell are the territorial leaders of the Hong Kong and Macau Territory, Major Julia Price is the Protection Coordinator for Children and Vulnerable Adults and Spiritual Life Development Secretary, and Major Glenn Price is Secretary for Business Administration.

For more images, click on the slideshow below.