• World leaders visit Pakistan
- simoneworthing
- Apr 28
- 3 min read
“Our hearts are full as we reflect on our incredible journey to Pakistan earlier this month,” reflected General Lyndon Buckingham, world leader of The Salvation Army with Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham (World President of Women’s Ministries).
“The warmth of Pakistani culture welcomed us with open arms, gifting us with traditional Kohati caps, Swati shawls, garlands and vibrant flowers. What an unforgettable welcome!
“Our spirits soared with dance, choir and timbrel performances, alongside powerful Scripture readings, prayers and heartfelt testimonies. Each gathering was a testament to the community’s faith and devotion, with the mercy seat lined with souls ready to embrace the gospel.
“We had the privilege of meeting inspiring leaders, from department heads and divisional leaders to key figures in the national assembly, education and governance.
“We are thankful for the privilege to be part of The Salvation Army in Pakistan.”
Official visit
The world leaders travelled the length of Pakistan – from Islamabad to Karachi – during a culturally rich visit from 1-6 April 2025.
Salvation Army personnel introduced the international leaders to Pakistani culture, offering them traditional Kohati caps, a Swati shawl, garlands and flowers throughout their visit.
“In each gathering, the mercy seat was lined with people responding to the Spirit-inspired messages of the General and Commissioner,” wrote Captain Yasmin Allah Lok, Editor, Pakistan Territory.
Lahore to Karachi
On 1 April, the international leaders met department heads and divisional leaders in Lahore. They also met with denominational leaders, members of the national assembly and key personnel in the education sector and on the governance board.
The following day, hundreds gathered for Officers’ Councils, during which the General encouraged them to be good shepherds and to ensure their motivation is pure and led by the Holy Spirit.
At a public meeting, the General based his message on 1 John 4:7-12, and acknowledged a new corps (church) opening in the city of Chishtian. In addressing young Salvationists, he advised them to stay focused and urged them not to wait to begin their journey with God.
On 3-4 April, the leaders visited Islamabad and Karachi. “They met with denominational leaders with whom they acknowledged the privilege of serving God in different spheres but for the same purpose,” wrote Captain Lok.
In public meetings, the General referred to Ephesians 2:4-10 and the ‘abundant grace’ received from God, urging Salvationists to share that love and mercy with others.
At the commissioning of the Champions of the Mission Session of cadets on 5 April, the General challenged everyone to serve God as their highest priority. Commissioner Buckingham charged the new lieutenants to spend quiet time with God to guard their hearts and stay focused.
Healing and restoration On 6 April, the international leaders visited Jaranwala, where a Salvation Army corps and other Christian churches and homes were set alight in August 2023. They met with people who had been affected by the incident and learnt about the work of The Salvation Army’s vocational trauma training centre that operates in collaboration with Forman Christian College.
A psychiatrist continues to work with children impacted by the incident.
To mark their visit, the General and Commissioner Buckingham planted trees in Islamabad and the Joyland Girls’ Home, Lahore.
For prayer requests from Pakistan, click here.
