Book signing at the 2015 Boundless Congress with Commissioners Marilyn and William Francis
He was a faithful and humble servant of God who shared his Godgiven gifts of writing and music throughout the Army world
The Larssons meet Pope Benedict XVI
establishing of the United Kingdom Territory with the Republic of Ireland (now the United Kingdom and Ireland Territory) in November 1990. With the rank of commissioner, John Larsson was appointed the first territorial commander of this new territory. This was followed by further territorial leadership, firstly in the New Zealand and Fiji Territory (1993–1996) and then in the Sweden and Latvia Territory (1996–1999). In October 1997 Commissioner John Larsson was appointed as a member of the Advisory Council to the General, becoming its chairman in March 1998. General John Gowans appointed Commissioner John as his Chief of the Staff – this appointment commencing on 1 August 1999, and it was while in this appointment that he was elected to
serve as the Army’s 17th General. General John Larsson served in this appointment from 13 November 2002 until his retirement from active officer service on 2 April 2006. It is almost impossible to quantify the worldwide legacy and influence of General John Larsson. He was a faithful and humble servant of God who shared his God-given gifts of writing and music throughout the Army world. He was the author, among other literary works, of Doctrine without Tears, The Man Perfectly Filled with the Spirit, Spiritual Breakthrough, 1929 and Those Incredible Booths. Known throughout the Salvation Army world and beyond for his collaboration with General John Gowans in the writing and production of 10 full-length musicals, the impact of General John
Larsson’s contribution to Salvation Army heritage cannot be underestimated. His music, both in the context of the musicals and in his composition of words and music for many other songs, has had a significant spiritual impact on people of all ages. Those who had the privilege of hearing him play his own compositions at the piano will also surely not forget that experience. However, it should be remembered that the influence of General Larsson’s own character, his gentle and unassuming nature and his depth of spirituality also remain an integral part of his legacy. In giving thanks to God for the gift that was General John Larsson, we offer our condolences and assurance of our prayers to Commissioner Freda Larsson, to their sons Karl and Kevin and to their wider families. To them we offer these words, set to beautiful music by General Larsson, and based on Philippians 4:6 and 7. We pray that the experience of this truth will surround and enfold Commissioner Freda Larsson and her family at this time. The Lord is near; have no anxiety, Make your requests known to God in prayer. Then the peace of God, Which is beyond our understanding, Will keep guard o’er your hearts and thoughts. (SASB 793)
A private funeral service for General Larsson will take place on Friday 8 April, 4.15pm, at Beckenham Crematorium, conducted by Majors Iain and Alison Hudson (Bromley Temple). A thanksgiving service will take place on Friday 8 April, 7.30pm, at William Booth College, led by Commissioner Keith Banks and Divisional Commander Major Valerie Mylechreest (South London). The thanksgiving service will be live-streamed at youtube. com/salvationarmyvideo.
Salvationist 2 April 2022
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