Marching On: 50 Years Strong The Salvation Army officially began its work in Fiji in 1973. Celebrations to mark this significant milestone took place over the weekend of December 15–17, in the nation’s capital of Suva. Part of the New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga and Samoa Territory of The Salvation Army, Fijian Salvationists were well supported with attendees from all four nations joining the celebrations. International Salvation Army leaders General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham were also present as special guests for the 50th Anniversary. WORDS Jules Badger PHOTOS Jules and Mat Badger, Ben Cola and Kris Singh
ou’re celebrating 50 years! It’s a party! It’s a celebration!’ declared General Lyndon Buckingham to hundreds of Salvationists of all ages gathered in Suva’s Vodafone Arena as the anniversary celebrations got underway. Salvationists from all over Fiji travelled to celebrate, encourage one another and hear from God. It was a joyous and moving sight as people who hadn’t seen each other for some years embraced and shook hands in greeting. Territorial leaders, Commissioners Julie and Mark Campbell attended, along with other senior leaders from New Zealand, including governance board and Rūnanga members, officers, soldiers and friends. A contingent of officers and soldiers from both Tonga and Samoa also supported their Fijian brothers and sisters in celebrating this significant milestone in the Pacific.
A powerful encounter The weekend’s celebrations began on Friday afternoon with a youth rally. It was a joyful and colourful start to the weekend as entire youth groups arrived wearing matching T-shirts printed in bold colours with inspiring verses on the back. The rally began with 20
Pēpuere February 2024
the entrance of General Lyndon and Commissioner Bronwyn, and after admitting his favourite food was a cheeseburger with a fried egg added, the General shared what happened to him at a youth event in 1979. ‘I went along with the hope that I might find a girlfriend,’ he said with a cheeky grin. ‘Instead, at the age of 17, I had a powerful encounter with God that changed my life forever. I can testify today that Jesus is my rock, shield, salvation, friend and guide. He is dependable and trustworthy and my journey since 1979 has proven this to be true!’ Throughout the afternoon there was inspiring worship, cultural performances and moving items from different corps, as well as powerful testimonies. Divala from Taveuni Corps shared about her neardeath experience, testifying that ‘God is closer than the clothes you are wearing’. Guest speaker Major Mat Badger spoke about the significance of the number 50 in the Bible. ‘Fifty is the “year of jubilee” and provides an opportunity to reflect on the past and prepare for the future,’ he said. ‘My dream is that some of you will be leading The Salvation Army at Fiji’s 100-year anniversary!’
